Graham Parker and The Rumour Play Ridgefield Playhouse Tonight

Tonight, June 16, at 8 p.m., the English singer/songwriter who is best known as the lead singer of the popular British band Graham Parker and The Rumour - with all original members - will be in concert at The Ridgefield Playhouse in support of their newest album, Mystery Glue, due out May 18. Parker's energetic performances -- along with the witty class-conscious spirit of his critically acclaimed debut album Howlin' Wind -- preceded the arrival of punk rock and new wave music. His quirky-blue-collar image is often believed to be a major influence on the public persona of many British musicians, most notably Elvis Costello, Paul Weller and Joe Jackson. The Rumour are well known for their hard driving, skilled, tightly arranged ensemble playing and have been compared to The Band and the Rolling Stones.

An AllShows.com VIP Party Pass ($25 addt'l per person), which includes a cocktail party from 6:30 - 7:15 p.m. with open bar, hors-d'oeuvre and priority parking is available for this show by calling the box office (203-438-5795). This event is part of the Xfinity Rock Series.

Graham Parker and The Rumour's classic 1979 release, Squeezing Out Sparks, cemented their position as one of Britain's top live acts and ensured sold-out concerts on their seemingly endless world tours. The Up Escalator album followed in 1980, reaching #11 on the UK charts and sold well throughout the world. Recently, Graham was featured in the Film This is 40, produced by Jude Apatow, starring Paul Rudd.

For tickets ($50), call or visit the box office at The Ridgefield Playhouse, (203) 438-5795. The Ridgefield Playhouse is a not-for-profit performing arts center located at 80 East Ridge, parallel to Main Street, Ridgefield, CT; ridgefieldplayhouse.org.