Rock Legends to Celebrate Their 50th Anniversary at the Strand Theater, Lakewood
The historic Strand Theater, Lakewood, N.J., will host the 50th anniversary celebration of Strawbs, considered iconic progressive rock legends, April 26-28, 2019, including performances, a Food Truck Fiesta, dinner, and a Strawbs’ Farewell Brunch.
Ray Coles, co-producer of Strawbs’ 50th Anniversary Weekend, noted that fans from across the globe will be traveling to Lakewood for the weekend-long celebration. Coles said, “I was honored and a little overwhelmed to be asked to help arrange this incredible event. I hope you can help us make it something to be remembered for many years to come.”
From the modest streets of the Strawberry Hill section of London, Strawbs rose from an acoustic bluegrass trio to one of the world’s best-known names in progressive rock. Dave Cousins, Strawbs’ lead vocalist and principal songwriter, has been described by the influential All Music Guide as “the most talented Dylan-influenced songwriter to come out of England.” Rolling Stone Magazine ranked the band’s 1974 release Hero & Heroine among the Top 50 Progressive Rock Albums of All Time. Music legend Tony Visconti, best known for his work with David Bowie and The Moody Blues, places Strawbs’ Dragonfly among the top albums he’s ever produced. Joining Strawbs for this 50th Anniversary Weekend celebration will be a Who’s Who of rock’s greatest. Strawbs alumnus, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and celebrated Yes keyboardist Rick Wakeman will be on hand. Also performing will be Blue Weaver, the only Oscar-winning member of Strawbs who joined The Bee Gees following his stint with Strawbs and helped that band formulate its Saturday Night Fever sound.
Annie Haslam of Renaissance, renowned for her five-octave vocal range, will take the audience back to the earliest days of Strawbs when late folk legend Sandy Denny contributed her ethereal vocals to the band’s original material. Annie and Strawbs will perform against the backdrop of a 32-piece orchestra, conducted by Tony Visconti. Also helping to celebrate this extraordinary milestone will be synth wizard and Peter Gabriel’s keyboardist Larry Fast; singer/songwriter/ author Wesley Stace also known as John Wesley Harding and the host of the popular Cabinet of Wonders at New York City’s City Winery; The Hooters’ Eric Bazilian, who penned smash hits like “One of Us” and “And We Danced”; John Ford, who wrote Strawbs biggest hit, “Part Of The Union”; and many more.
Sponsorship opportunities range from $1000 to $10,000 and include ads in 50th Anniversary Journal, tickets for the weekend, recognition on event signage and website, and acknowledgements. Email questions and camera-ready art to raycoles@teknetinc.com. ; or phone or text at 732.691.9989.
Payment can be made via check, credit card or PayPal. Make checks payable to either Strand Ventures Inc. or Witchwood Media and mail to Strawbs 50th Anniversary, c/o Ray Coles, 1293 Ventura Drive, Lakewood, NJ 08701.
To purchase tickets and for more information about the weekend events, visit www.strawbs50.com.