This year Maudslay Arts Center (MAC) Summer Concert Series will celebrate its 33rd season featuring folk/blues singer, guitarist, songwriter, and Academy Award winner Chris Smither on Sunday, Aug. 2.
“Smither is an excellent acoustic guitarist and first-rate foot-stomper,” wrote The Associated Press. His music draws deeply from the blues, American folk music, and modern poets and philosophers.
This summer has a wonderful line-up of concerts, featuring something for every musical taste from Big Band to jazz, from funk to bluegrass, from folk music and country to the Great American Songbook.
Saturday concerts begin at 7 p.m. including New Black Eagle Jazz Band on July 11, Mike Monaghan on July 18, Tom DiMenna’s Story Songs of the 70’s, on July 25, Ken Clark Organ Trio on Aug 1, and Breakin’ Strings on Aug. 8.
Sunday afternoon performances begin at 2 p.m. including Bobby Keyes Trio on July 12, Donna Byrne on July 19, Chris Smither on Aug. 2, The Mystix Unplugged with Danielle Miraglia on Aug. 9, and Alex Lee-Clark and the 8tet on Aug. 16.
Saturday performances start at 7 p.m., with gates opening at 6 p.m. Patio seating (tables and chairs) is $40 while lawn seating (bring your own chairs or blankets) is $35. Children 12 and under are free.
Sunday performances start at 2 p.m. with gates opening at 1 p.m. General admission is $30 with open seating on the patio and lawn. Tables and chairs are provided on the patio. Special group rates may be arranged by calling (978) 388-2552. Children 12 and under are free.
The Chris Smither Concert on Sunday, Aug. 2, is a special event. General admission is $45. The first 100 tickets sold are guaranteed seats in performance hall in case of rain.
“Summer is just a brief season here in New England,” Costello said, “so come out and enjoy wonderful music at affordable prices in a spectacular natural setting.”
For the complete summer schedule, to purchase tickets online, or for further information about the performers, visit the MAC website at www.maudslayartscenter.org in mid-June. Tickets also may be purchased at the gate (check, cash or Venmo only) or by calling (978) 388-2552. There is no reserved seating, but large groups will be accommodated with advance notice. Gift certificates also are available. MAC participates in the MCC Card to Culture Program.
The series is operated and supported by dedicated volunteers, private donors, ticket sales and rentals, and the staff of the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). Saturday evening concerts are supported by The Newburyport Bank.