Don't Forget: Bluegrass Festival Sunday

Just a reminder that the Newtown Bluegrass Festival returns to the this Sunday, May 1.

The festival will feature two performances from Straight Drive and the James King Band.  There’s an afternoon performance at 2:30 p.m. and one in the evening at 7:30 p.m.

The performance at the Newtown Theatre is just one part of the festivities. Prior to each show, there will be a Bluegrass Party Jam at ’s that will feature live music, a special barbecue menu, and drink specials. The pre-party at Isaac’s is from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. and from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Newtown Patch will be there taking pictures, so if you see us, be sure to say hi!

James King, one of the festival’s performers, is described on the Newtown Bluegrass Festival’s Web site as “the kind of singer that makes bluegrass what it so gloriously is. King’s soulful voice balances the emotional gut-wrenching mountain blues of old-time music and the smoother drive of early bluegrass.”

The other act, Straight Drive, is “firmly grounded in the grit and intensity of the classic, first-generation performers of bluegrass music,” according to the festival Web site. “Striking original material in combination with fresh arrangements of older songs ensures that Straight Drive has an appeal and relevance that speaks to the heart of anyone who appreciates the balance between tradition and innovation.”

Tickets are $30 and can be purchased online at www.newtownbluegrass.com or at Isaac Newton’s restaurant in Newtown and the Bucks County Folk Music Shop in New Britain.

Proceeds from the event benefit Pickering Manor, a local senior living facility.