The Black Swamp Gypsies Play Free FridayFest Concert At The Van Wezel 7/23

The well-known band, The Black Swamp Gypsies from Bradenton will be performing at the second FREE FridayFest concert on the Van Wezel Performing Arts Bay Front on Friday, July 23 from 5 to 9 p.m.

The members of the band, Jack Bush, Chuck Rudy, Chris Moore, Chris "Furdog" Twere, Stacy Jo Kimbrough, and Tarah Van Fossen are all friends that absolutely love to perform. They all have the same desire to make sure the audiences have the time of their lives at each of their performances. A gypsy's energy is contagious! Come feel it! You won't be disappointed when you jump to your feet dancing a little bit of country!

As an added treat for this FridayFest, Jamie Ann Hill, 22 years old, will be performing with the Black Swamp Gypsies. Jamie recently won 1st place in DeSoto's Got Talent; in 2005, she won the talent award for accompanying herself on the piano while singing "Hero" by Mariah Carey. When she is not competing, she is a kindergarten teacher at West Elementary School in DeSoto County.
FridayFest is an ideal way to unwind after a busy week and usher in another great weekend in Paradise. Guests are invited to bring blankets or lawn chairs. Local vendors will offer food and beverages. Outside drink and food is prohibited; coolers and weapons of any kind are prohibited as well.

FridayFest takes place rain or shine. In the event of inclement weather, the Festival will move indoors to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.

The presenting sponsor is Gettel Nissan. Additional sponsors are Comcast, Bright House Networks, Budweiser, ABC 7, Creative Loafing,The Observer Group, 106.5 CTQ, The Van Wezel Foundation, Boar's Head, Waste Services of Florida, InterMedia Productions, Cameresi Designs and Rotary Club of Sarasota Bay. The concert series is paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues.

The next two concerts will take place on Friday August 27 with "The Big Z Band", and on September 24 with "Big Night Out."

For the best entertainment in Sarasota, visit the Van Wezel located at 777 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. For more information, call 941-953-3368 or visit www.vanwezel.org.