Nothing seems more uniquely “Athens" than watching a free concert while enjoying a drink outside.
This Friday begins Stuart Opera House’s sixth annual summer concert series. The series features a new band in the historic venue’s parking lot on the last Friday in June, July, August and September.
The Royales will be the first to take the stage this summer, bringing a fresh blend of blues and jazz-infused rock. The group has been playing in Athens since 1995 and has become a staple of the community, continually performing for some of the town’s biggest events.
“The Royales are a perfect fit because even though they are well known around here they are a band that if you weren’t familiar with them, you watch them for a few minutes and you instantly feel comfortable,” said Brian Koscho, marketing director for Stuart’s Opera House. “They play really high-energy, dance-centered R&B that’s perfect for the summertime.”
Nelsonville’s Final Friday event takes place the same day as the concerts, with a special theme each month. The June 28 theme is a focus on history with reenactments, stories and lessons about the oldest buildings in Public Square that helped shape the coal-boom town. Local galleries and art shops all use this day to showcase new exhibits and artwork.
And there will be alcohol aplenty. The concert will feature a beer garden so that patrons can enjoy a cold beverage outside on the presumably hot summer day.
July’s performance will come from Sean Rowe, who wrote much of his first album while on a yearlong stint surviving on his own in the wilderness. Folk artist Nora Jane Struthers will take the stage in September and a performer is yet to be announced for August.
“Free concerts with beer outside sell themselves, because they don’t cost you anything,” Koscho said jokingly. “The trick is finding bands that fit that atmosphere of playing outside on a warm summer night.”
wh092010@ohiou.edu
If You Go:
What: The Royales
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Where: Stuart’s Opera House
Admission: Free
