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Mayor to Host Concert Fundraiser at Irvington Town Hall Theater
By: Tyler Peterson Nov. 25, 2015
Ticket sales will benefit the Town Hall Theater and can be purchased in advance online for $25-$35. Free beer is provided by Captain Lawrence Brewing Company and food is provided by Geordanes.
"When we were unable to hold our Rocktoberfest (a festival of bands in Matthiessen Park in October) this year, I knew immediately that I wanted to come up with Plan B," say Mayor Brian C. Smith. "December 12th is my Plan B - but I hope that it will be unique and special. The Irvington Town Hall Theater has long been the center of life in the Irvington Community. Under the leadership of Theater Manager Gregory Allen we have seen an increase in the variety of shows beyond "traditional theater" to include first run productions, readings of new plays and most recently, with the Irvington Town Hall Theater Commission, Irvington's first International Film Festival."
With this event, the mayor wanted to create a casual atmosphere that would bring the community together in much the way the festival had done in the park. The concert is a way for people to have a great time, listen to two incredible bands, and raise some money for the Theater.
"I love the holidays and thought this would be a great way to see my friends and neighbors," says the mayor.
Unforgettable Fire, or "UF", was born on New Year's Day in 1995 as one of the very first US tribute bands to ever perform in America. After twenty years of playing in some of the most prestigious venues on the East Coast, UF has formed a reputation among many to be one of the closest experiences to being at an actual live U2 show.
One of UF's last founding members from 1995, drummer George (Larry) Levesanos, still performs with the band. George is a veteran drummer on the New York City music scene and has performed in many other projects before forming UF. Joining the band in the summer of 2001 was singer Tony (Bono) Russo. Over the years, Tony has brought UF to a new level of authenticity as he is regarded as one of the country's top Bono look-a-likes. In late 2002, bassist Craig (Adam) Kiell added his top notch musicianship, experience, and stage presence to the band has been a crucial part of the solid rhythm section ever since. Late 2004 brought Mick (Edge) Normoyle to the band to the complete the last piece of the puzzle in its quest to have the truest, most authentic live U2 sound.
Opening the evening with be The Sweet Chash, a band of musicians inspired by the early music of Johnny Cash, recreating the sound of his direct storytelling and pure melodies with the infectious rhythm of the 'Boom Chicka Boom'.
These three musicians from different backgrounds all share a passion for the music of Johnny Cash. Leading the group with his deep voice, rhythm guitar and chicken-picking guitar solos is Matthew O'Keefe. He doesn't simply imitate but rather honors the sound of Johnny Cash through his own interpretation. The bassist is Steve Rubenstein. His performance experience ranges from orchestras to Motown bands. On drums, I Helder Docabeco, keeps the train-rhythm rollin' all night long!
"We are excited to have this event at the theater," says theater manager Gregory Allen. "Mayor Smith has created a unique party for the holiday season and we are grateful he has thought of us for this fundraiser."
"A special thanks goes out to our wonderful supporters Geordane's Food World and Captain Lawrence Brewery who have donated their food and beverages, so all proceeds can go toward the Theater's Building Fund," says Mayor Brian C. Smith. "I am as excited about the things I am hearing about the improvements to the building as I am about the concert."
Under the Covers on a Cold December Night tickets are $25-$35 in advance or an extra $3 if purchased at the door. Please visit www.irvingtontheater.com to buy in advance. Irvington Town Hall Theater is located at 85 Main St, Irvington, NY.
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