This coming Sunday we have a convergence of three topics that are near and dear to my heart. The Ohio Theatre, the Dupont Community Park, and singer Jackson Snelling. I’ve done stories on each of these individually in the past, but they are coming together for a very special event at 2 p.m. on Sunday — doors open at 1 p.m.
It’s being billed as a “Country Christmas” with Jackson Snelling as the headline performer. There will also be raffles for various gifts, wine and whiskey. A “Wildest Sweater” contest. Hot chocolate and homemade cookies, plus refreshments and adult beverages. Tickets are $10 ($5 for kids) and available at Madtixevents.com.
The event is a fundraiser for the Dupont Community Park, which is nearing completion but still needs a little more funding to get over the hump. I caught up with the Park project organizers, Dawn Jines and Anne Saxe, and asked them how it was going.
“The park is technically usable,” explained Dawn, “but the playground is not 100% complete yet. The tables are in, as are most of the other features.” Anne continued. “I’d encourage anyone interested to stop in and take a look at the progress. It’s right in the heart of Dupont near the railroad tracks. But the best thing you can do to help is buy a ticket and come to this event on Sunday!”
Avid readers of this column will recall a recent story I did on Jackson Snelling, the musical performer for this event. He was in the middle of filming “The Voice” television show out in Los Angeles. Unfortunately, Jackson was knocked out of the competition before the final round, but he had some wonderful experiences being coached by Reba McIntire and enjoying the spotlight.
Jackson was also tapped a few years ago to be a contestant on “American Idol.” The significance of two of these talent shows picking him cannot be overstated. He has the voice, the stage presence, and the compelling backstory to truly become a star. His amazing vocal range will be on full display at this Sunday concert event.
While talking to Dawn and Anne about the Dupont Park, I also had a chance to catch up with Chuck Requet and Elizabeth Auxier, Ohio Theatre board members and de facto mavens of the beloved auditorium. I asked how things were coming along.
“Well, you probably heard we received a nice grant to redo the whole front facade of the building, and that will be starting soon,” explained Chuck. “New windows, refinished brick walls, totally restored marquis sign with the classic chasing lights. It should be completed by Regatta next year. It will look exactly like it did in 1938.”
“The refurbishment of the chairs is actually done,” chimed in Elizabeth. “We’re just waiting to do the floor prep work before they can be reinstalled. With all the other work of the last few years, I can honestly say the building is the most stable it’s been in decades.
“I feel like we’re getting the old momentum back, and this year we are really rocking and rolling. I would tell people who want to help, just come to the shows, tell your friends, and help us build the energy and excitement around the project. It’s really going to mean a lot to Madison when it’s complete.”
Hot Tip of the Week
Thomas Family Winery has a Celtic band on tap Saturday, and that kind of music just pairs beautifully with Steve’s wine and the warm and cozy atmosphere they’ve created there. Highly recommend. And then looking out to next Tuesday, the annual Holiday Concert by the Louisville Brass will be at Trinity Methodist Church at 7 p.m. These Performing Arts Foundation shows are always free, and always entertaining. Put it on your calendar now.
Charlie Rohlfing is a retired advertising man and partner in The Red Bicycle Hall music venue. Look for his distinctive fedora bobbing above the crowd, anywhere live local music is happening.
This Week in Music
Friday
Rivertown Grill — Jordan Wilson Coalition
Saturday
Rivertown Grill — No Name Band
Thomas Family Winery — Clocgheann
Off Broadway Taproom — Radio Face
Fairgrounds — For the Love of Bluegrass (& Gospel & Country) 2 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 3
Rivertown Grill — TBA
Ohio Theatre — Jackson Snelling (1 p.m.)
Tuesday, Dec. 5
Trinity Methodist — Louisville Brass
