ST. GEORGE – Take a trip back to the Roaring ‘20s on Friday, when George Streetfest celebrates its 20th successive event by transforming into “Classic George.”
In keeping with the theme, a host of ‘20s-era (and modern) entertainers will be on tap, and all attendees are invited to dress in ‘20s style.
“We’re delighted that this is Streetfest’s 20th straight month of presenting nightlife that southern Utah can get excited about,” George Streetfest Executive Producer Melynda Thorpe said. “It’s been a wonderful surprise and extremely gratifying to see how the community has embraced this event, and how it continues to grow every month. We hope all ‘guys’n’gals’ will get into the spirit of the celebration, and come decked out in their 1920s best on Nov. 4.”
At the main stage, the Dixie Rebel Jazz Band kicks things off at 6:30 p.m. Offering up the sounds of Glen Miller, Tommy Dorsey and other beloved swing music legends, this 18-piece ensemble is always a crowd-pleaser.
Following the Dixie Rebel Jazz Band’s set, Stayer will take the stage at 7:30 p.m. Although this band is new to the local music scene, all four of its members are veterans of a host of popular groups, including Morning Sexy, Guesthouse, God Country and Wirelefant.
Leader Shane Stewart described his new project’s genre as “soft grunge,” adding that it’s great alternative-rock that’s guaranteed to get the Streetfest audience jumping.
Wrapping up what promises to be a main stage night of music to remember, alt-rock favorite Wirelefant will perform from 8:30-10 p.m. With a devoted southern Utah following, Wirelefant counts among its musical influences such classic rockers as Pink Floyd, The Beatles, Rush and Led Zeppelin.
To get visitors 21 and over in the ‘20s mood, Mr. CP’s Jazz Trio gets things underway in The Desert Pulse Jazz Garden, located in historic Ancestor Square, from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Headed up by West Coast Jazz Players founder Carlyle Potter on standup bass, the trio – which also includes pianist David Stevens and drummer Shawn Owens – will serve up a healthy dose of jazz songs made famous during the ‘20s, including selections from George Gershwin, Hoagie Carmichael and Cole Porter. Fresh from New York City, vocalist Lisa Higbee will share her talents with the trio, offering her sultry take on some of the era’s most romantic jazz ballads.
From 9-11 p.m., “acoustic sauce rock” duo Oskar & Julia will take the jazz garden stage. Hailing from Salt Lake City, this husband-and-wife team is renowned for their smooth style and melodic harmonies.
Art lovers will have reason to celebrate during Classic George, with a visit to nearby Arts to Zion @ Gallery 35 on Main Street. During Streetfest, visitors can enjoy the historic “Artists Work! Art in Zion with Roland Lee and Royden Card” exhibition.
As part of the ongoing “The Way We Worked in Washington County” exhibit, the new show will help build awareness of (and excitement for) the upcoming “The Way We Worked” Smithsonian traveling show coming to Silver Reef Museum in September of 2017 in partnership with the Utah Division of Arts & Humanities.
For more information, or to become a vendor, visit georgestreetfest.com, or email [email protected]. George Streetfest organizers are now accepting applications for street market vendors, buskers and food vendors.
Event details
- What: George Streetfest “Classic George.”
- When: Friday, Nov. 4, 6-10 p.m.
- Where: Historic Downtown St. George.
- Cost: Free; vendors vary.
Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @STGnews