Bradley Fair’s Summer Concert Series resumes with new names, a ‘listening lounge’
Variety is the watchword for this year’s free Bradley Fair Summer Concert Series.
“We’re trying to expand our offerings and offer tunes for every taste,” said marketing manager Amanda Stiebens. “We want something for everybody.”
While the number of jazz acts on the schedule does dwindle — and jazz saxophonist Joseph Vincelli won’t be returning for the first time in years — there are new offerings of bluegrass and Americana music, Stiebens said.
New this year, Stiebens said, is the “Listening Lounge” operated by Central Standard Brewing. Located beneath Healing Waters and next to the stage, it will serve beer and sangria and have a ticketed area with prime seating.
“It’s an area for good vibes,” she said.
There will also be a family area around the lake that will offer strolling characters and face painting from 6-7 p.m.
“We know a lot of families like to sit and do picnic-style seating right around there,” Stiebens said.
Also featured will be a trolley from The Popcorner offering popcorn and fresh-squeezed lemonade.
“There’s lots of fun new elements this year,” Stiebens said.
Here’s the schedule for the series, which starts on Thursday, June 2. All shows start at 7:30 p.m.
Rudy Love Jr., June 2. The Wichita native combines R&B, soul, funk and jazz, following in the footsteps of his father, Rudy Love Sr.
The Burney Sisters, June 9. Based in Columbia, Missouri, this group is described as Americana, folk, indie, pop and rock
Grand Marquis, June 16. The Kansas City-based brass band has elements of American roots and a New Orleans second-line party
Pretend Friend, June 23. The Wichita bluegrass group “sounds like the quick-pickin’ offspring of Robert Plant and the Stanley Brothers”
Injoy Fountain, June 30. The Wichita native, best known for appearing on Season 17 of “The Voice,” has expanded into musical theater and also still performs concerts. Fireworks will follow her show, which is the series’ final concert