Chicago Street Theatre's "One Night Jam" acoustic concert series is bringing one familiar face and one new face to the main stage.
Chicago-based singer/songwriter Michael McDermott returns on Sunday, July 21st at 7:30pm. Series manager Paul Braun recalls, "Back in 2001, when we were just getting started, Michael took a chance on a theatre and a town he'd never heard of, and played his first show for us. That began a long relationship with one of the country's finest songwriters, and we're thrilled to have him back on our stage."
McDermott's most recent album, "Hit Me Back," has garnered critical and fan acclaim worldwide. After his debut album, "620 W. Surf" was released in 1991, author Stephen King was moved to write, "I'm always startled by the inability of words to express how good really good rock and roll music can be, but I always know it when I hear it...and besides, words are all I have. So let me say it simple: Michael McDermott is a great artist, and this is a great album. Listen and see if you don't agree. --Stephen King"
Michael will be accompanied by his wife, Heather Horton, on violin and vocals. "I defy you to come to one of Michael and Heather's concerts and not leave a changed person," said Braun.
Opening for McDermott are Mark Mybeck and John Carpenter of region band "Nomad Planets".
Showtime is 7:30pm. Tickets are $25, or $50 for limited couch seating in the front row, including a photo op with the artists and a print to take home.
The new face is American Idol Season 10 finalist Casey Abrams, who will be making his debut in Valparaiso on Sunday, August 4th at 7:00pm.
Abrams received national attention when he became one of the finalists on the hit TV show. His unconventional appearance and unique style definitely made him a stand-out -- nobody had played upright bass as a lead instrument on the show before.
"I had seen Casey on AI the night my friend, saxophonist Mindi Abair duetted with him, and there was something about him that caught my attention," said Braun. "And then we were introduced to each other by Jim Peterik at a concert shortly after that. We talked about Chicago Street, and all agreed it sounded like a perfect match. Finally, our schedules aligned and we set a date."
Abrams' self-titled debut album, full of catchy melodies and fun lyrics, gained him a lot of fans. He will be appearing as an acoustic duo at Chicago Street, and the set will definitely include hits like "Get Out" and "Simple Life".
Tickets for Casey Abrams are $25 reserved, or $50 for limited couch seating in the front row, including a photo with Casey and a print to take home after the show.
Chicago Street Theatre's box office is at 219-464-1636. More information can be found at www.ChicagoStreet.org