ARTSQUEST ANNOUNCES NEW WORLD WINE CENTRIC DINNER

The wine and food pairing series, produced in partnership with Jay Nee of Juniper and Grain, will return with a New World Wine Dinner on Wednesday, July 6, 2022.

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – ArtsQuest is excited to offer the second installment in its dining series centered around rare wines and gourmet food pairings from around the world. This series, produced in partnership with Jay Nee of Juniper and Grain, will offer “New World” wines from both Australia and New Zealand, perfectly paired with four-courses of delectable creations from ArtsQuest’s culinary partners Levy Restaurants. The dinner will take place beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 6. Tickets can be purchased now on steelstacks.org for $99, which includes wine, food and server gratuity.

To start the experience, guests will be served a haricot vert, grilled zucchini and coriander salad with manuka honey citrus vinaigrette, all paired with Schild Estate Barossa Chardonnay from Barossa Valley, Australia.

The second course – the appetizer will feature Havelock green lipped mussels in a white wine with roasted garlic and chives on grilled rewena. The wine pairing will be Babich Black Label Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand.

The main course will feature tender New Zealand Kawakawa lamb meatballs in chimichurri, kumara puree with roasted seasonal vegetables. The wine pairing for this course will be Wild & Wilder ‘The Opportunist’ Shiraz from Langhorne, Australia.

To close the evening on a sweet note, dessert will feature Feijoa Hokey Pokey ice-cream with an Anzac biscuit. Based on availability the wine pairing will be either a RL Buller Fine Premium Moscato from Victoria, Australia or Lambert Estate ‘The Chocolatier’ Tawny from Barossa Valley, Australia.

This wine and pairing experience series is produced in partnership with Jay Nee of Juniper and Grain. Nee brings more than two decades of beverage hospitality experience to the table. Since moving to the Lehigh Valley from New England 15 years ago, he has worked in the beverage hospitality industry in many roles. He helped develop one of the most interesting wine programs in the area and launched a recurring wine education night that has entertained hundreds of guests. He has gone on to present more than 400 wine, beer and spirits events for thousands of guests.

THE ICE RINK AT STEELSTACKS TO OPEN NOVEMBER 2022

ArtsQuest is thrilled to announce the addition of an authentically-surfaced ice rink on the SteelStacks campus from Thanksgiving week to New Year’s Day

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – ArtsQuest is adding a new tradition to Bethlehem’s holiday season with an authentic ice rink at the base of the blast furnaces on the SteelStacks campus. The Ice Rink at SteelStacks presented by Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital, will be open daily, including holidays, beginning Tues., Nov. 22, 2022 through Sun., Jan. 1, 2023.

“Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital is proud to be the Presenting Sponsor of the Ice Rink at SteelStacks for the 2022 year,” Richard Levy, Vice President, Marketing and Public Affairs, Lehigh Valley Health Network said. “As the region’s only children’s hospital, we are dedicated to keeping the kids in our community out on the ice and helping them get back on it if they ever need care.”

In partnership with Rink Management Services Corporation, The Ice Rink at SteelStacks will feature fresh ice maintained throughout the day to deliver an outdoor skating experience like no other across the Lehigh Valley. Throughout the season the rink will be packed with events for all ages, including birthday parties, themed nights, sporting events and more. This new attraction will complement ArtsQuest’s beloved Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem, presented by Univest Financial®, which will return for its 30^th year beginning Fri., Nov. 18, 2022.

“This rink will add to the magic of the seasonal activities and charm that make Bethlehem the Christmas City and a major tourism destination,” Kassie Hilgert, President and CEO of ArtsQuest said. “We thank Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital for helping to make this vision a reality for the residents of the Lehigh Valley and beyond.” For group inquiries, contact Groups@artsquest.org For corporate and community sponsorship opportunities, contact sponsorship@artsquest.org. Individual passes and skate rentals will go on sale after Musikfest. More information will be announced throughout the year and the full calendar of events will be posted on ChristmasCity.org/Skate.

LA PISTA DE HIELO EN STEELSTACKS ABRIRÁ EN NOVIEMBRE DE 2022

ArtsQuest se complace en anunciar la incorporación de una auténtica pista de hielo en el campus de SteelStacks desde la semana de Acción de Gracias hasta el día de Año Nuevo

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – ArtsQuest agregará una nueva tradición a la temporada de fiestas de Bethlehem con una auténtica pista de hielo en los altos hornos del campus de SteelStacks. La pista de hielo en SteelStacks, patrocinada por el hospital Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital, estará abierta todos los días, incluidos los feriados, desde el martes, 22 de noviembre de 2022 hasta el domingo, 1 de enero de 2023.

“Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital se enorgullece de ser el patrocinador principal de la pista de hielo en SteelStacks del año 2022″, dijo Richard Levy, vicepresidente de Marketing y Relaciones Públicas de Lehigh Valley Health Network. “Como único hospital infantil de la región, nos comprometemos a mantener a los niños de nuestra comunidad sobre el hielo y a ayudarles a volver a él si alguna vez necesitan atención”.

En colaboración con Rink Management Services Corporation, la pista de hielo de SteelStacks contará con hielo fresco que se mantendrá durante todo el día para ofrecer una experiencia de patinaje al aire libre como ninguna otra en todo Lehigh Valley. Durante la temporada, la pista contará con una gran variedad de eventos para todas las edades, como fiestas de cumpleaños, noches temáticas, eventos deportivos y mucho más. Esta nueva atracción complementará el querido Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem de ArtsQuest, presentado por Univest Financial®, que volverá en su 30.º año a partir del viernes, 18 de noviembre de 2022.

“Esta pista de patinaje se sumará a la magia de las actividades estacionales y al encanto que hacen que Bethlehem, la ciudad de la Navidad sea un importante destino turístico”, dijo Kassie Hilgert, presidenta y directora general de ArtsQuest. “Agradecemos al Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital por su ayuda para hacer realidad esta visión para los residentes de Lehigh Valley y de otros lugares”. Para consultas sobre grupos, escriba a Groups@artsquest.org. Para oportunidades de patrocinio corporativo y comunitario, escriba a sponsorship@artsquest.org. Los pases individuales se pondrán a la venta después del Musikfest, al igual que el alquiler de patines. Se dará más información a lo largo del año, y el calendario completo de eventos se publicará en ChristmasCity.org/Skate.

BRETT DENNEN TO PERFORM AT MUSIKFEST CAFÉ

Californian Singer-Songwriter Brett Dennen will perform Sun., July 17

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – ArtsQuest is proud to announce folk/pop artist Brett Dennen will perform in the Musikfest Café, presented by Yuengling on Sun., July 17 . Tickets for this show will go on sale for ArtsQuest members at 10 a.m. Thurs., May 19 and Fri., May 20 for the general public at steelstacks.org. For more exclusive ticket opportunities, become an ArtsQuest Circle donor today.

Raised in a small California farm town, Dennen emersed himself in music, learning to play guitar and writing songs inspired by Paul Simon, Neil Young, John Denver and Joni Mitchell. In 2004 he worked on recording his first self-titled, self-released album Brett Dennen. After being signed to Daultone Records he released So Much More, including singles “Ain’t No Reason,” She’s Mine,” and “Darlin’ Do Not Fear.” In 2008 Dennen opened for John Mayer and was named by Rolling Stone as an “Artist to Watch.” In 2018 Dennen opened for Jason Mraz at ArtsQuest’s own Musikfest. Over the course of his career his music has been featured on numerous television shows and films including According to Greta, “Parenthood,” “About a Boy,” “Wizards of Waverly Place,” and “Live from Daryl’s House.” Since 2004 Dennen has released seven studio albums, five live albums and has worked in The Mosaic Project, a San Francisco Bay nonprofit organization since its creation.  

Tickets are now on sale for a variety of Musikfest Café shows.

Fri., June 3, ArtsQuest’s own Draggin’ With The Divas.  A drag show featuring music performed by some of our favorite Queens; Elektra Fearce St. James, Sharron Ann Husbands, Georgia Versace Couture and Shanae Morgan covering Queens of the music scene.

Fri., July 1, Melvins with opening act Helms Alee and Harsh Mellow. The experimental rock band was formed in 1983 and have released nearly 30 albums over the course of their three-decade career.

Sun., Sept. 18, Here Come the Mummies, with opening act SaxQuatch. Here Come the Mummies is an eight-piece funk-rock band of 5000-year-old Egyptian Mummies with a one-track mind.

Fri., July 8, Yellow Brick Road- A Tribute to Elton John, with Augusta Maine, is a full concert tribute, complete with an incredible light show and sound system.

Sun., Nov. 20 The Evolution of Joni Mitchell, featuring Lauren Fox’s constructed musical journey through Joni Mitchell’s life and music with pianist and narrator Andrew Powers.

Fri., Nov. 25 and Sat., Nov. 26, Tusk – The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band, featuring five musicians recreating the music of Fleetwood Mac with note for note renditions that no other can come close to duplicating.              

On Thurs., Dec., 8Livingston Taylor & Karla Bonoff – Home for The Holidays featuring Karla Bonoff and Livingston Taylor’s unforgettable performance of the most loved Holiday classics including songs from Karla’s critically acclaimed Holiday album Silent Night.

For tickets to Musikfest Café’s shows up visit steelstacks.org. 

JA RULE AND ASHANTI TO HEADLINE MUSIKFEST 2022

 Chart-topping Ja Rule and Grammy Award winner Ashanti will headline Musikfest on Fri., Aug. 12, 2022

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – ArtsQuest with media partner B104 are thrilled to announce Ja Rule and Ashanti as co-headliners for the Wind Creek Steel Stage at PNC Plaza on Fri., August 12. Tickets for this chart-topping duo will go on sale to ArtsQuest members beginning 10 a.m., Tues., May 17 and to the general public at 10 a.m., on Fri., May 20  on musikfest.org. For more exclusive ticket access and advance purchase opportunities, become an ArtsQuest Circle donor today. 

Ja Rule, born Jeffrey Atkins, made his debut in 1999 with his single “Holla Holla,” on the platinum-selling album Venni Vetti Vecci. He quickly topped the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 Chart with hits “Between Me and You” featuring Christina Milian, “I’m Real” and “Ain’t It Funny” both featuring Jennifer Lopez. Ja Rule joined forces with R&B singer Ashanti for songs “Always on Time,” “Mesmerize” and “Wonderful,” gaining four Grammy Award nominations and two American Music Award nominations. In 2000 he released Rule 3:36 and Pain Is Love in 2001, gaining him triple platinum status. Keeping the momentum of his success going Ja released platinum album The Last Temptation in 2002, Blood in My Eye in 2003 and R.U.L.E in 2004. Over the course of his career, he has sold over 30 million records worldwide.

Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter, actor and author Ashanti debuted with her self-titled album Ashanti featuring hit song “Foolish,” in 2002. Her album landed her at the top of the Billboard charts by selling 504,593 in the first week of its release. She was named to Guinness Book of World Records for the most albums sold by any debut female artist and still holds the record today. Over the course of two-decades Ashanti has recorded six studio albums, receiving an array of awards including eight Billboard Awards, a Grammy Award, two American Music Awards, two Soul Train Awards and six ASCAP Awards. In 2005 Ashanti starred as Dorothy in “The Muppets’ Wizard of Oz” followed by roles on “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Army Wives,” “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” and films such as John Tucker Must Die and Resident Evil Extinction. Dipping into the entrepreneurial pool she partnered with AMC Beauty and was the first African American to land a national campaign with Herbal Essence. She recently penned a book of poetry “Foolish/Unfoolish: Reflections on Love” set to be released this year.

Musikfest will take place Aug. 5 – 14, 2022. This year’s lineup includes Kip Moore, Ziggy Marley – A Live Tribute to His Father, Olga Tañón, Counting Crows, Willie Nelson & Family, Kelsea Ballerini, ALABAMA and Poison. This year’s ‘Fest includes a preview night on Aug. 4 with headliner Boyz II Men.

Additional announcements will be shared throughout the year. The new Musikfest poster, by renowned fine artist Bart Cooper, was unveiled in Nov. Visit musikfest.org for more information. Overall, an estimated 1,127,000 people attended Musikfest in 2021 and the 11-day festival had an estimated $67 million impact on the Lehigh Valley Region of Pennsylvania.

BRETT ELDREDGE TO PERFORM AT STEELSTACKS SUMMER SERIES

Country artist Brett Eldredge with opening act Lauren Alaina will take the outdoor stage on Sat., Sept. 17, 2022

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – ArtsQuest is excited to announce country artist Brett Eldredge and country star Lauren Alaina will perform on the outdoor stage for SteelStacks Summer Concert Series on Sat., Sept. 17, 2022 Tickets for this general admission show will go on sale beginning Thur., May 19 for ArtsQuest Members and Fri., May 20 to the general public at steelstacks.org. For more exclusive ticket access and advance purchase opportunities, become an ArtsQuest Circle donor today. 

Country music singer/songwriter and producer Brett Eldredge broke through the Billboard Hot 100 charts in 2012 with his single “Don’t Ya,” from his debut studio album, Bring you Back. He continued to top the charts with hits “Beat of the Music,” and “Mean to Me,” winning Country Music Association Award’s New Artist of the Year and BMI Country Award Song of the Year. Following his debut success, Eldredge has since released seven studio albums including Illinois, Brett Eldredge, Sunday Drive and holiday themed Glow and Mr. Christmas. His newest album, Songs About You, centers on Eldredge’s signature vocals work backed by uncluttered and understated arrangements featuring live horns. The album includes well received singles, “Songs About You,” “Holy Water” and “Want That Back.” Over his musical career Eldredge has received nine Gold and Platinum-certified singles, two Gold-certified albums and multiple CMA, ACM and CMT Music nominations and wins, and regularly fills arenas nationwide with electrifying live performances.  

Lauren Alaina will return to the SteelStacks campus to kick-off the outdoor concert featuring Brett Eldredge. The American Idol runner up turned country-pop singer/songwriter was inducted to the Grand Ole Opry in February 2022. Alaina is best known for hits “Like My Mother Does,” “Georgia Peaches,” “Eighteen Inches,” and has toured all over the country with artists including Jason Aldean, Martina McBride and Blake Shelton.

The SteelStacks Summer Concert Series includes Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Bayside and Thrice, with opening act Anxious, Fitz and the Tantrums and St. Paul & The Broken Bones and Andrew Bird, Iron & Wine. Tickets are now on sale at steelstacks.org

ARTSQUEST ANNOUNCES RETURN OF TACOFEST

The much-anticipated food event will feature tacos, live music, games and the first annual Chihuahua Beauty Contest

BETHLEHEM, Pa.— ArtsQuest is delighted to announce the return of TacoFest presented by Bacardi Rum on Sun., July 10. Spend the afternoon at the SteelStacks campus enjoying tacos from around the Lehigh Valley, live music, the first annual SteelStacks Chihuahua Beauty Contest, a ghost pepper bobbing contest, comedy gameshow and more. Tickets for this much anticipated full day experience are now on sale at steelstacks.org. General admission tickets are $5; Margarita Madness tickets are $49 for members or $54 for general public; Patrón Tequila Tastingtickets are $49 for members and $54 for general public. Tickets for Margarita Madness and Patrón Tequila Tasting include early entry into the festival. For select discounted rates and presale opportunities become an ArtsQuest member or Circle donor today.

“We are excited for the return of TacoFest to the SteelStacks campus after its blockbuster sold-out debut in 2019,” Patrick Brogan, ArtsQuest’s Chief Programming Officer said. “What better way to spend a summer afternoon than on the Levitt lawn enjoying the best tacos in the Lehigh Valley while experiencing live music, games and chihuahuas.”

General Admission begins at 1 p.m., and includes access to all the food, drinks and fun at the SteelStacks campus. Live entertainment includes a performance from Reading-based Mexican folk band Mariachi Maya Internacional, the comedy game show “Spicy Talk,” hosted by comedian Jon Lunger and featuring notable area personalities and a ghost pepper bobbing competition hosted by comedian and Brooklyn Hot Sauce Expo Ghost Pepper Bobbing Champion Aliya Brown. Guests are invited to attend the first annual SteelStacks Chihuahua Beauty Contest. To register a pint-sized K-9 for a chance to showcase their magnificence, visit steelstacks.org. General admission also includes access to the TacoFest Sensory-Friendly Zone, hosted by Accessible Festivals in the Blast Furnace Room.

Participating Lehigh Valley food favorites include The Bayou, Cool Treats, Corner Cabinet, Cubano Xpress, Fud Truck, Flying V, Geakers Tacos, Grumpy’s BBQ Roadhouse, La Cabinita, Latin Bites, Take a Taco and more. ArtsQuest’s Mack Truck Stop and Palette & Pour will also be serving food and mixing cocktails featuring Cazadores Tequila and Bacardi Rum. 

Margarita Madness will begin in the Musikfest Café, presented by Yuengling at 1 p.m., where attendees will vote on up to a dozen uniquely twisted cocktails featuring Cazadores Tequila. 2019 champions, Mixology Masters of Bethlehem, will be back to defend their crown against competing restaurants from throughout the area as they all try to win the title for the best margarita in the Lehigh Valley. There will also be a complimentary tortilla chip bar stocked with guacamole, queso, salsas, and rice and beans. Tickets to Margarita Madness also include early admission to Tacofest starting at noon, and automatic entry into a special raffle in which guests can win Musikfest Wind Creek Steel Stage tickets, Frank Banko Alehouse Cinema passes, Hot Glass experiences and more.

Any businesses interested in participating in Margarita Madness may contact Programming Specialist Addyson Young at ayoung@artsquest.org or (610) 332-1354.

Patrón Tequila Tasting will be hosted at 1:30 p.m., on the Wind Creek Deck at the ArtsQuest Center. Attendees will imbibe five different samples of Patrón Tequilas including Gran Patrón Piedra, an extra añejo tequila that retails for $400 a bottle. A complimentary tortilla chip bar with guacamole, salsa, queso and rice and beans will be available during the event. Tickets for the Patrón Tequila Tasting include early admission to TacoFest at noon and automatic entry into a special raffle for exclusive ArtsQuest prizes including Musikfest Wind Creek Steel Stage tickets, Frank Banko Alehouse Cinema passes, Hot Glass experiences and more. 

For more information and to purchase tickets visit SteelStacks.org  

ARTSQUEST ANUNCIA EL REGRESO DEL EVENTO TACOFEST

El tan esperado evento gastronómico ofrecerá tacos, música en vivo, juegos y el primer Concurso de Belleza Anual de Chihuahuas

BETHLEHEM, Pa.— ArtsQuest se complace en anunciar el regreso de TacoFest presentado por Ron Bacardi el domingo 10 de julio. Pase la tarde en el predio de SteelStacks disfrutando de tacos de todo Lehigh Valley, música en vivo, el primer Concurso Anual de Belleza de Chihuahuas de SteelStacks, un concurso de chile fantasma, un concurso de comedia y más. Las entradas para esta experiencia de día completo tan esperada ya están a la venta en steelstacks.org. Las entradas de admisión general cuestan $5; las entradas para Margarita Madness cuestan $49 para los socios y $54 para el público en general; las entradas para la cata Tequila Patrón Tasting cuestan $49 para los socios y $54 para el público en general. Las entradas para Margarita Madness y cata Patrón Tequila Tasting incluyen entrada anticipada al festival. Para acceder a tarifas con descuentos exclusivos y acceso a la preventa, asóciese a ArtsQuest o conviértase en un donante Circle hoy.

“Estamos emocionados por el regreso de festival TacoFest al predio de SteelStacks después de su exitoso debut de ventas en 2019”, dijo Patrick Brogan, director de Programación de ArtsQuest. “Qué mejor manera de pasar una tarde de verano que en el césped de Levitt disfrutando de los mejores tacos en Lehigh Valley mientras se disfruta de música en vivo, juegos y chihuahuas”.

El ingreso general comienza a la 1:00 p. m. e incluye acceso a toda la comida, a las bebidas y a la diversión en el predio de SteelStacks. El entretenimiento en vivo incluye el espectáculo de la banda folclórica mexicana de Reading Mariachi Maya Internacional, el programa de juegos de comedia “Spicy Talk”, presentado por el comediante Jon Lunger y con notables personalidades del área y una competencia de chile fantasma organizada por la comediante y Campeona de la competencia de Chile Fantasma de la Exposición de Salsa Picante de Brooklyn, Aliya Brown. Se invita a los asistentes a asistir al primer concurso anual de belleza de Chihuahuas de SteelStacks. Para inscribir a su perro del tamaño de una pinta y tener la oportunidad de mostrar su magnificencia, ingrese a steelstacks.org. La admisión general también incluye acceso a la Zona Sensorial de TacoFest, organizada por Accessible Festivals en Blast Furnace Room.

Los platos favoritos de Lehigh Valley incluyen The Bayou, Cool Treats, Corner Cabinet, Cubano Xpress, Fud Truck, Flying V, Geakers Tacos, Grumpy ‘s BBQ Roadhouse, La Cabinita, Latin Bites, Take a Taco, entre otros. Mack Truck Stop y Palette & Pour de ArtsQuest también servirán comida y cócteles con Tequila Cazadores y Ron Bacardí.

Margarita Madness comenzará en el Musikfest Café, presentado por Yuengling a la 1:00 p. m., donde los asistentes votarán por hasta una docena de cócteles elaborados exclusivamente con el distintivo Tequila Cazadores. Los campeones de 2019, Mixology Masters of Bethlehem, regresarán para defender su corona frente a los restaurantes competidores de toda la zona mientras todos intentan ganar el título de mejor margarita en Lehigh Valley. También habrá una barra de tortillas chip (nachos) de cortesía con guacamole, queso, salsas y arroz y frijoles. Las entradas para Margarita Madness también incluyen la entrada anticipada a TacoFest a partir del mediodía y la participación en una rifa especial en la que los huéspedes pueden ganar boletos para Musikfest Wind Creek Steel Stage, pases al cine Frank Banko Alehouse, experiencias Hot Glass y más.

Cualquier empresa interesada en participar en Margarita Madness puede comunicarse con el Especialista en Programación, Addyson Young, escribiendo a ayoung@artsquest.org o llamando al (610) 332-1354.

La cata Tequila Patrón Tasting se llevará a cabo a la 1:30 p. m., en la cubierta de Wind Creek en el Centro ArtsQuest. Los asistentes tomarán cinco muestras diferentes de Tequilas Patrón, incluido el Gran Patrón Piedra, un tequila extra añejo que se vende por $400 la botella. Una barra de tortillas chip (nachos) con guacamole, salsa, queso y arroz y frijoles estará a disposición durante el evento. Las entradas para la cata Tequila Patrón Tasting incluyen la entrada anticipada al festival TacoFest al mediodía y la participación en una rifa especial para ganar premios exclusivos de ArtsQuest, entre las que se cuentan entradas a Musikfest Wind Creek Steel Stage, pases para el cine Frank Banko Alehouse, experiencias Hot Glass y más.

Para obtener más información y comprar entradas, visite SteelStacks.org

ARTSQUEST AND EMBASSY BANK PRESENT ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY COMMEMORATION

The Memorial Day weekend will feature Hometown Heroes 2022 banner debut, remembrance ceremonies and live music

BETHLEHEM, Pa.— ArtsQuest is proud to announce the return of the 12^th annual Memorial Day commemoration presented by Embassy Bank on Sat., May 28, to Mon., May 30, hosted with community partners, Blue Star Mothers, Gold Star Mothers, Tails of Valor, Lehigh Valley Health Network Veterans Health Program and Women’s Veterans Empowered and Thriving, at SteelStacks campus. This commemorative event will feature the Hometown Heroes 2022 photo-banner, live music and remembrance ceremonies including “A Time to Remember,” and “Remember Our Heroes” luminary display honoring those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. 

“The decade-long tradition of honoring those who have dedicated themselves to protecting and serving the United States has become an event at the SteelStacks campus that we look forward to every year,” said Embassy Bank CEO, President and Chairman Dave Lobach Jr. “We are excited to see the new additions to this year’s Hometown Heroes photo-banner debut during the Memorial Day commemoration.”

On Sat., May 28 at 3 p.m., Ed McKendry will open the weekend event on the Levitt stage. McKendry, the guitarist and vocalist from award-winning band “The Difference.” McKendry has played venues all over the Lehigh Valley and Philadelphia region.

Hydraulic Lime featuring Todd Patnaude on bass, John Sekella on guitar, and Reed Thomson on drums, will follow at 5:30 p.m. The three-piece power rock trio brings the style of the Grand Funk Railroad and Budgie playing a mix of original and covers songs.

Closing Saturday night at 9 p.m., acoustic trio Rock Steady will bring their three-part vocal harmonies, covering The Little River Band, The Eagles, Boston, Gerry Rafferty and many more.

On Sun., May 29 at 3 p.m., the five-sibling group, Sing for America, will cover a variety of musical selections for audiences of all ages. Their mission to raise funds for families of active serving military through concert and theatrical performances has led them to produce full scale musical productions throughout the year. Sing for America has raised over $60,000 for military families since their inception. Visit www.SingforAmerica.com for more information on donating.

At 5:30 p.m., Acoustic Kitty Project featuring singer-songwriter Carter Lansing will perform. Influenced by the classic Carter writes “real songs about real things for real people.”       

Closing the evening at 9 p.m., Roi and the Secret People will take the stage. Renowned for their exhilarating live shows, featuring songwriter Mike Roi on lead vocals and guitar, Ed Golden on guitar, Glen Radomski on bass, Madelaine Elizabeth on vocals, violin and keys, and Pete Ciccone on drums. The group was founded by Roi to create the version of rock music he was raised with, a mix of sultry swamp, classic rock, and alternative music.

On Mon., May 30, The Swing Time Dolls will open the afternoon at 3:30 p.m., with their own takes on the classics of the Vietnam Era and modern hits. The all-female vocal group of three accomplished vocalists showcase tight and intricate harmonies that are sure to keep any listener engaged. The trio brings their theatrical flair to their performances with pin-up styled costumes and energetic choreography.

The Dolls will be followed by Stefanie Johnson at 5 p.m. The singer-songwriter’s style ranges from a soaring pop to rock with a little country timbre. In addition to the local scene, Stefanie has performed at Nashville’s legendary Bluebird Cafe and 12th & Porter, as well as the Rock and Roll of Fame. Her song “In my Shoes” was featured in the 2018 film Affairs of State and “One Life” was featured 2021’s Red Rocket. On Mon., May 30 at 3 p.m., the weekend will conclude with a memorial service featuring speakers Representative Steve Samuelson, Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure, Lehigh County Executive Philips Armstrong, and City of Bethlehem Mayor William Reynolds, on the Levitt Pavilion SteelStacks stage with “A Time to Remember” in honor of the Lehigh Valley’s fallen soldiers from the Afghanistan and Iraq wars. The ceremony will be followed by a luminary display honoring those who served in the United States Armed Forces, “Remember Our Heroes” at 8 p.m.

BOYZ II MEN WILL HEADLINE 2022 MUSIKFEST PREVIEW NIGHT

Harmonizing R&B trio, Boyz II Men will kick-off Musikfest 2022 on preview night Thurs., Aug. 4

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – ArtsQuest and media partner B104 are excited to announce Grammy and Billboard award winning trio, Boyz II Men will perform on Musikfest Preview Night. Boyz II Men will headline the Wind Creek Steel Stage at PNC Plaza on Thurs., August 4. Tickets will go on sale to ArtsQuest members beginning 10 a.m., Tues., May 10 and to the general public at 10 a.m., on Fri., May 13  on musikfest.org. For more exclusive ticket access and advance purchase opportunities, become an ArtsQuest Circle donor today. 

The Philadelphia- based Rhythm and Blues group Boyz II Men became an international house-hold name in the early 1990s with the release of singles “Motownphilly,”  “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday,” and “End of the Road”. The trio featuring, Nathan Morris, Wanya Morris and Shawn Stockman, attribute their success to smooth harmonies, soulful multi-octave vocals and timeless song and story themes. Boyz II Men holds the distinction of being the best-selling R&B group of all time, with over 64 million albums sold across the world.

Over the course of their 30-year career Boyz II Men have amassed an impressive arsenal of awards including four Grammy Awards, nine American Music Awards, nine Soul Train Awards, three Billboard Awards and a 2011 MOBO Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music. Since the beginning of their career they have collaborated with artists of every genre from Mariah Carrey’s duet “One Sweet Day,” to the re-imagined “Motownphilly” with country singer Brett Young and Steep Canyon Rangers’s bluegrass song, “Be Still Moses.”

The group founded the charity “Boyz II Men House” in 2018 to help support organizations that focus on improving the quality of life, unlocking human potential and contributing to the health and vitality of those less fortunate. Musikfest will take place Aug. 5 – 14, 2022. This year’s lineup includes Kip Moore, Ziggy Marley – A Live Tribute to His Father, Counting Crows, Willie Nelson & Family, Kelsea Ballerini, ALABAMA and Poison. Additional announcements will be shared throughout the year. The new Musikfest poster, by renowned fine artist Bart Cooper, was unveiled in Nov. Visit musikfest.org for more information. Overall, an estimated 1,127,000 people attended Musikfest in 2021 and the 11-day festival had an estimated $67 million impact on the Lehigh Valley Region of Pennsylvania. 

 ¡SABOR! LATIN FESTIVAL RETURNS TO STEELSTACKS JUNE 24-26

ArtsQuest is proud to announce the return of the 11^th annual free-admission ¡SABOR! Latin Festival a celebration of Latin heritage including music, food and family fun

ArtsQuest, in partnership with B. Braun Medical Inc., and media partner La Mega Radio, is excited to present the return of ¡Sabor! Latin Festival, to the SteelStacks campus on Fri., June 24 through Sun., June 26, 2022.  The free-admission family friendly celebration of Latin heritage and Hispanic culture will be hosted over the course of three days featuring music, food and fun throughout the campus. 

“¡Sabor! Festival weekend at ArtsQuest is a great place for getting on your feet to let the music move you to a Latin beat while enjoying authentic Hispanic food and culture,” Latin Programming Committee Chair Myrna Rivera said.

“The ¡Sabor! Festival offers the Lehigh Valley community the opportunity to showcase their beautiful culture via music, food and artistic expression,” Latin Programing Committee member Iris M Cintron said. “It serves as a validation of the cultural contributions that Latinos have made to the Lehigh Valley. It also demonstrates ArtsQuest’s commitment to our cultural heritage.”

Getting the celebration started on Fri., June 24, Air Products Town Square will feature a free dance party hosted by LatinaFM. The Levitt Pavilion stage will feature Nexo, a New York City Merengue trio. Folk-group Herencia Jibara displays their Puerto Rican musical roots with beautiful melodies and energetic rhythms created by exploring Caribbean, Salsa, Merengue and Bachata flavors in the night’s closing set on the Highmark Stage at Air Products Town Square. Independent Latinx improv comedy team, Chucho, will perform with ArtsQuest’s own Synced Up at 9:15 p.m., inside the Visitor Center. Chucho has performed all over New York City, at Big City Improv Fest in Toronto and featured in the past five SteelStacks Improv Comedy Festivals.

On Sat., June 25, a special flag raising ceremony will take place outside the Visitors Center at SteelStacks presented by St. Luke’s University Health Network at 3 p.m., followed by Allentown’s own eight-piece salsa plena merengue group Los Pleneros de USA at the Town Square. Rounding out the lineup for the day is 11-member salsa dura group PA Mambo Orquesta. This group will tease out the dancer in everyone with their hard chagrining gritty old-school style. Hector Rosado y su Orq Hache will headline the Levitt Stage while Pancho Bongo y su Orquesta, a high-energy classic salsa group consisting of 14 talented musicians, will end the night on the Highmark Stage. Improv team Chucho will give a solo performance at 9:15 p.m., inside the Visitor Center.

Saturday night features a special performance by Charlie Cruz in the Musikfest Café presented by Yuengling. Cruz has been well received by the Puerto Rican recording industry and is considered one of the newest stars to come from the Salsa genre. Cruz got his start in 1996 when he began working as vocalist in Domingo Quiñones’ Orchestra. He made his mark on the international scene with the released of his album Imagínate in 1999.Tickets for this show are now on sale and can be purchased at steelstacks.org

On Sun., June 26, Holy Infancy will host a Mariachi Mass in the Musikfest Café in the morning. This Mass free to all those who attend.

During the weekend Latin inspired food will be served by Hogar Crea and Holy Infancy in addition to ArtsQuest’s own quick service bar and kitchen Palette & Pour and Mack Truck. Family crafts will be hosted over the course of the festival by the engaging artists of the Banana Factory.                                                           

This festival is free and open to the public. For more details and full activity line up visit SteelStacks.org.

Schedule:

Fri., June 24

Air Products Town Square 6:30 – LatinaFM

Levitt 8 p.m. – Nexo

Visitor Center 9:15 p.m. – Chucho Improv Team w/ Synced Up

Town Square 10 p.m. – Herencia Jibara

Sat., June 25

Visitor Center 3 p.m. – Flag Raising

Town Square 4 p.m. – Los Pleneros de USA

                        6 p.m. – PA Mambo Orquesta

Musikfest Café presented by Yuengling 7 p.m. – Charlie Cruz *ticketed show*

Levitt 8 p.m. – Hector Rosado y su Orquesta

Visitor Center 9:15 p.m. – Chucho Improv Team

Town Square 10 p.m. – Pancho Bongo y su Orquesta

Sun., June 26

Musifkest Café 10 a.m. – Mariachi Mass by Holy Infancy

EL “FESTIVAL LATINO ¡SABOR!” REGRESA A STEELSTACKS DEL 24 AL 26 DE JUNIO

ArtsQuest se enorgullece de anunciar la 11.º edición anual y de entrada gratuita del “Festival Latino ¡SABOR!”, una celebración de la herencia latina que incluye música, comida y diversión en familia

ArtsQuest, en colaboración con B. Braun Medical Inc., y el socio de medios La Mega Radio, se complace en presentar el regreso del Festival Latino ¡Sabor! al campus de SteelStacks desde el viernes 24 de junio hasta el domingo 26 de junio de 2022. La celebración de la herencia latina y la cultura hispana, de entrada gratuita y para disfrutar en familia, se llevará a cabo durante tres días con música, comida y diversión en todo el campus. 

“El fin de semana del festival ‘¡Sabor!’ en ArtsQuest es un gran lugar para ponerse de pie y dejar que la música lo mueva a un ritmo latino mientras disfruta de la auténtica comida y cultura hispana”, dijo la presidenta del Comité de Programación Latina, Myrna Rivera.

“El festival ‘¡Sabor!’ ofrece a la comunidad de Lehigh Valley la oportunidad de mostrar su hermosa cultura a través de la música, la comida y la expresión artística”, dijo la miembro del Comité de Programación Latina Iris M. Cintron. “Sirve como una validación de las contribuciones culturales que los latinos han hecho a Lehigh Valley. También demuestra el compromiso de ArtsQuest con nuestro patrimonio cultural”.

La celebración comienza el viernes 24 de junio y Air Products Town Square ofrecerá una fiesta de baile gratuita organizada por LatinaFM. El escenario de Levitt Pavilion contará con la presencia de Nexo, un trío de merengue de la ciudad de Nueva York. El grupo folclórico Herencia Jibara exhibe sus raíces musicales puertorriqueñas con hermosas melodías y ritmos enérgicos creados al explorar los sabores del Caribe, la salsa, el merengue y la bachata en el cierre de la noche en el escenario Highmark de Air Products Town Square. El elenco independiente de comedia de improvisación latinx, Chucho, actuará con Synced Up de ArtsQuest a las 9:15 p. m., en el Centro de Visitantes. Chucho ha actuado por toda la ciudad de Nueva York, en el Big City Improv Fest (Festival de improvisación de la gran ciudad), en Toronto, y participó en los últimos cinco SteelStacks Improv Comedy Festivals (Festivales de comedia de improvisación SteelStacks).

El sábado 25 de junio se llevará a cabo una ceremonia especial de izamiento de bandera fuera del Centro de Visitantes en SteelStacks presentada por la Red de Salud de la Universidad de St. Luke a las 3:00 p. m., seguida por el grupo de ocho integrantes de salsa plena merengue de Allentown, Los Pleneros de USA, en la plaza de la ciudad. La cartelera del día se completa con el grupo de salsa dura de 11 miembros PA Mambo Orquesta. Este grupo sacará el bailarín que todos llevamos dentro con su estilo duro y enérgico de la vieja escuela. Hector Rosado y su Orq Hache serán los artistas principales en el teatro Levitt, mientras que Pancho Bongo y su Orquesta, un grupo de salsa clásica con mucha energía integrado por 14 músicos talentosos, cerrará el espectáculo en el teatro Highmark. El elenco de improvisación Chucho dará una actuación en solitario a las 9:15 p. m., en el Centro de Visitantes.

El sábado por la noche se presenta una actuación especial de Charlie Cruz en el Musikfest Café presentado por Yuengling. Cruz ha sido bien recibido por la industria discográfica puertorriqueña y es considerado una de las nuevas estrellas que provienen del género de la Salsa. Cruz se inició en 1996 cuando comenzó a trabajar como vocalista en la orquesta de Domingo Quiñones. Dejó su huella en la escena internacional con el lanzamiento de su álbum Imagínate en 1999. Las entradas para este espectáculo ya están a la venta y se pueden comprar en steelstacks.org

El domingo 26 de junio, Holy Infancy celebrará una Misa Mariachi en el Musikfest Café por la mañana. Esta misa es gratuita para todos los asistentes.

Durante el fin de semana, Hogar Crea y Holy Infancy servirán comida con sabores latinos, además de la exclusiva barra de servicio rápido y la cocina de ArtsQuest, Palette & Pour y Mack Truck. Los simpáticos artistas de Banana Factory ofrecerán actividades de artesanías y manualidades en familia durante todo el festival.

Este festival es gratuito y abierto al público. Para obtener más información y ver una lista completa de actividades, visite SteelStacks.org. 

Cronograma:

Viernes 24 de junio

Air Products Town Square 6:30 p.m. – LatinaFM

Levitt 8:00 p.m. – Nexo

Centro de Visitantes 9:15 p.m. – elenco de improvisación Chucho, junto con Synced Up

Plaza de la Ciudad 10:00 p.m. – Herencia Jibara

Sábado 25 de junio

Centro de visitantes 3:00 p.m. – Izamiento de bandera

Plaza de la Ciudad 4:00 p.m. – Los Pleneros de USA

                        6:00 p.m. – PA Mambo Orquesta

Musikfest Café presentado por Yuengling 7:00 p.m. – Charlie Cruz *espectáculo con entrada*

Levitt 8:00 p.m. – Héctor Rosado y su Orquesta

Centro de Visitantes 9:15 p.m. – elenco de improvisación Chucho

Plaza de la Ciudad 10:00 p.m. – Pancho Bongo y su Orquesta

Domingo 26 de junio

Musifkest Café 10:00 a.m. – Misa Mariachi por Holy Infancy