Art at The Acorn – Artist Reception for Amy Renzulli – Full Circle

Tuesday, Jul. 30 | 7:00pm ET (6:00pm CT)

The Acorn Center for the Performing Arts transforms into a visual art space with our initiative Art at The Acorn. We are proud to welcome our new artist, Amy Renzulli and her exhibit Full Circle.

The exhibit title – Full Circle – refers to many things in Amy’s life - too many to list here. It is the name of the farm that she and her husband own in South Haven, where they have plans to build an art barn and studio for hosting art workshops. Full Circle is also the path Amy’s art has taken from being inspired by her artist father’s landscape paintings to her vibrant, colorful abstracts and back to her own interpretive landscapes. As she moves through different styles, each stage informs the next.

Artist Reception is free and open to the public.

• Light bites | Cash bar
• Artist Talk and Q&A moderated by Janet Davies

Registration for the free Artist Reception is encouraged. Please click the “Get Tickets” button at the bottom of this page to register.

Artist Statement:

My work is primarily in mixed media using acrylics, oil paints, markers, hand printed papers, and found ephemera. My process is guided by listening to my own intuition, to trusting my instincts and letting go of judgment and comparison. It is one of layers, marks, fixes and scrapes. I often find that the artwork TELLS ME what I need to know and what I need to express. It is meditative, calming and extremely enlightening. A final piece has had many lives that evolve over time. The end result is one of discovery and surprise.

I find that the more I paint the more I learn about my life, emotions, and creative energy. It helps me deal with depression– my own and others around me. It counteracts threatening boredom and brings me joy. I want the visual impact of my work to make other people happy and draw the viewer in where they continuously discover new things. My inspiration comes from everything around me, including the creative relationships within my circle of family and friends.

Almost all of my work is layered and filled with colors, shapes, words and images. It tends to be bold, bright, musical, and eclectic. I have always enjoyed the challenge of a sky full of beautiful clouds. And I am continuously drawn back to my own playful approach to making high impact, abstract art.

About the Artist

Coming from a family full of artists, Amy grew up with the gifts of painting, drawing, writing, and abundant art supplies and guidance. Amy’s biggest artistic influence is her father who made art a central part of his life and career after being a doctor for many years. She began her painting journey by mimicking the traditional landscapes he painted and seeking his input and feedback. She later found her own rhythm and style which continues to evolve. And she still seeks out the advice and guidance from her family of professional artists.

She currently balances her time between two busy, successful School of Rock locations, two art studios, and a burgeoning start-up with one of her creative sisters. She enjoys spending time with her husband and two young adult children and encouraging them to achieve their own dreams and goals.

Amy’s focus is exploring, learning and getting her work out in the world. Her goal is to nurture and contribute to the art community as well as continue to paint and develop her artistic presence.

Peach Jam - A Tribute To The Allman Brothers Band

Friday, Oct. 18 | 8:00pm ET (7:00pm CT)

Peach Jam is a collective of some of the best musicians Chicago has to offer celebrating the music of the legendary Allman Brothers Band.

About the Artists:

Formed in 2022, these players will transport you back in time to the Fillmore East and keep you moving all night long. Peach Jam brings together members of Chicago mainstays Cornmeal, Terrapin Flyer, Old Shoe, Helping Phriendly Orchestra, and the Brooklyn Charmers for a cosmic gumbo of hot jams, tight grooves, soaring vocal harmonies, and down-home blues that’ll make a believer out of any ABB fan. “People can you feel it? Love is everywhere!”

RESERVED SEATING DONATION option includes a $25 tax-deductible donation to The Acorn and guarantees you a seat with optimal sightlines. $25 Donation per ticket holder in your group.

MegaBeatles

Saturday, Oct. 12 | 8:00pm ET (7:00pm CT)

Take a trip down memory lane as this amazing nine piece band entertains you with some of your favorite songs from the Beatles!

About the Artists:

MegaBeatles is a talented group of musicians from Northwest Indiana/Chicago that recreate the music of the Beatles with precision, passion and Love! The band features members of the Chris and Lou band and the CrawPuppies. Both Northern Indiana favorites. As individual bands they both have very successful reputations as original and cover bands. It is a rare treat when these bands combine for a high energy set of amazing post 1965 Beatles hits, deep cuts and fan favorites. A Splendid time is guaranteed for all!

RESERVED SEATING DONATION option includes a $25 tax-deductible donation to The Acorn and guarantees you a seat with optimal sightlines. $25 Donation per ticket holder in your group.

Neighbor by Neighbor Fall Fundraiser "Do It With Love" Featuring Meagan McNeal

Saturday, Oct. 05 | 8:00pm ET (7:00pm CT)

Get up, dance, and "Do It With Love" to benefit Neighbor by Neighbor! Returning this year, powerhouse singer/songwriter and recording artist Meagan McNeal will rock the house once again to help our neighbors in need.

Please join us for a special evening supporting Neighbor by Neighbor. It is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization in Harbor Country that works to address food insecurities, homelessness, and the dire needs of the vulnerable seniors in our community.

Reserve your ticket for the VIP Pre-Show Event

This ticket includes access to the VIP Pre-Show with hors d'oeuvres, wine, and a reserved seating ticket for the event at The Acorn! (VIP Pre-Show ticket holders: A separate concert ticket is not required for admittance to the show at The Acorn.) There are a limited number of tickets available, so get one before they are gone!

Get Concert Ticket Only

Get VIP Package (Pre-Show Event & Concert)

About the organization

Neighbor by Neighbor is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization in SW Michigan that works to address food insecurities, homelessness, and the dire needs of the vulnerable seniors in our community. We are a resource for our low-income neighbors in SW Berrien County that provides the tools and education for them to progress from dependence to independence

We do this by: Ensuring they are stably housed, and able to pay for their basic necessities while providing access to a range of resources that address increases in skills, knowledge, and education allowing them to achieve independence.

What does that mean? For Seniors and the disabled, the goal is to stabilize them, and ensure they are safe and secure, so they can live as valued members of our community. For the broader population, the immediate objective is to ensure they are safe, have food on the table, and a roof over their head. Once that is accomplished, we assess their current situation, and partner with them to create a plan leading to employment opportunities and financial independence.

RESERVED SEATING DONATION option includes a $25 tax-deductible donation to The Acorn and guarantees you a seat with optimal sightlines. $25 Donation per ticket holder in your group.

The Cactus Blossoms w/ Lou Hazel

Friday, Oct. 04 | 8:00pm ET (7:00pm CT)

Brothers Jack Torrey and Page Burkum’s airtight harmonies are delivered with a soulful, ’70s-inspired palette of playful Wurlitzer, breezy guitars, and muscular percussion.

About the Artists;

“Hey baby, do you wanna take a trip with me? / I’ve got a feeling there might be a silver lining all around.” So begins One Day, the captivating new album from critically acclaimed Minneapolis duo The Cactus Blossoms. Written and recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic, the record explores the tension between optimism and despair that’s defined much of the past few years of American life, examining the power (or naïveté, depending on your perspective) of positive thinking in the face of chaos and uncertainty. The songs here are tender and timeless, with straightforward arrangements centered around brothers Jack Torrey and Page Burkum’s airtight harmonies, and the performances are warm and intimate to match, delivered with a soulful, ’70s-inspired palette of playful Wurlitzer, breezy guitars, and muscular percussion.

The Cactus Blossoms broke out nationally in 2016 with their JD McPherson-produced debut, You’re Dreaming. Dates with Kacey Musgraves, Jenny Lewis, and Lucius followed, as did raves from the New York Times and NPR, who praised “the brothers’ extraordinary singing.” The band was further catapulted into the spotlight in 2018, when David Lynch tapped them to perform in the return of Twin Peaks, and continued to build on their success with their 2019 sophomore LP, Easy Way, which led Rolling Stone to laud the duo’s “rock-solid, freak of genetics harmonies.”

RESERVED SEATING DONATION option includes a $25 tax-deductible donation to The Acorn and guarantees you a seat with optimal sightlines. $25 Donation per ticket holder in your group.

Duke Tumatoe & The Power Trio

Saturday, Sep. 28 | 8:00pm ET (7:00pm CT)

Duke Tumatoe returns to The Acorn! Born in Chicago, Duke began his musical career in the early 1970s. He was a member in the band that became REO Speedwagon before forming his own group, Duke Tumatoe and the All-Star Frogs.

About the Artists:

Duke Tumatoe is a blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter who has been entertaining audiences for over four decades with his unique blend of humor, talent, and showmanship. Born in Chicago, Duke began his musical career in the early 1970s. He was a member in the band that became REO Speedwagon before forming his own group, Duke Tumatoe and the All-Star Frogs.

Duke's music is a mix of blues, rock, and R&B, and he is known for his witty lyrics and irreverent sense of humor. Over the years, he has released several albums, including "Red Pepper Hot!," "I Like My Job," and "You've Got the Problem!" Duke's music has gained a wide following, thanks in part to his regular appearances on the nationally syndicated "The Bob and Tom Show." His humorous songs and engaging personality have made him a fan favorite, and he continues to tour extensively, playing at festivals, clubs, and theaters across the country.

RESERVED SEATING DONATION option includes a $25 tax-deductible donation to The Acorn and guarantees you a seat with optimal sightlines. $25 Donation per ticket holder in your group.

Terrapin Flyer: A Tribute To Grateful Dead

Friday, Sep. 27 | 8:00pm ET (7:00pm CT)

Terrapin Flyer has a dedicated following among fans of the Grateful Dead and other jam bands, and is known for their authentic interpretations of rare and classic Dead songs.

About the Artist:

For the past 25 years Terrapin Flyer has been touring with the finest in the Grateful Dead community of musicians and has become a fixture of the national music scene, playing regularly at venues around the country and appearing at music festivals. The band has a dedicated following among fans of the Grateful Dead and other jam bands, and is known for their authentic interpretations of rare and classic Dead songs. Over the years, Terrapin Flyer has toured with many notable musicians, including Melvin Seals from the Jerry Garcia Band, Vince Welnick, Tom Constanten from the Grateful Dead and many other Dead-related musicians. Overall, Terrapin Flyer is a talented and highly regarded band that has made a significant impact on the national music scene.

It started in 1999 at the Boulevard Cafe in Chicago as a Grateful Dead jam night and soon became a touring Grateful Dead band featuring legends in the Grateful Dead. In 2001 TF began touring with final keyboardist of the Grateful Dead Vince Welnick. In 2004 touring with Melvin Seals who played Hammond organ in the Jerry Garcia Band. And then in 2006 with another of the Grateful Dead keyboardists Tom Constanten. Some of these tours included several first ever lineups with the combination of Melvin Seals, Tom Constanten and Mark Karan from Ratdog. These were not passing associations but long term bonds with these legends. For 15 years TF toured with Melvin Seals and kept a busy schedule with him as a side gig to his band Melvin Seals & the JGB. With Constanten they were mentioned in the Rolling Stone's "Guide to the Grateful Dead" for the many years of touring with him. Search through this website for many fan recorded shows of the many interesting lineups from the band's history https://archive.org/details/TerrapinFlyer

Terrapin Flyer has been an evolution of band members over the past quarter of a century and currently features musicians that share the gravitas of having toured many years with members of the Grateful Dead and Jerry Garcia Band. At it's core Terrapin Flyer is a band of deadheads who are committed to attempting to recapture the spirit and essence of the Grateful Dead by incorporating the roots music of jazz, blues and bluegrass into jams and bringing the music to new and similar places. Josh Olken is the lead guitarist, Wavy Dave on the bass, Jon Reed is the drummer, keyboardist is Michael Cole and rhythm guitarist Doug Hagman.

RESERVED SEATING DONATION option includes a $25 tax-deductible donation to The Acorn and guarantees you a seat with optimal sightlines. $25 Donation per ticket holder in your group.

Led Zeppelin 2

Saturday, Nov. 16 | 8:00pm ET (7:00pm CT)

LED ZEPPELIN 2: The Live Experience recreates the sights, sounds, and pure rock & roll euphoria of a prime Led Zeppelin concert. Resplendent in satin and denim, LZ2 delivers the intense, raw energy and dynamics of songs such as Whole Lotta Love, Stairway to Heaven, Kashmir, Dazed and Confused and many more from the entire catalog of Zeppelin studio, live and bootleg recordings.

“Led Zeppelin 2 is a tribute band devoted to replicating the live shows of the legendary hard-rock dinosaurs. The band is on its way out of the minor leagues, and is now playing bigger venues for a generation of fans too young to have ever experienced the genuine article.” - The New Yorker

About the Artists:

LED ZEPPELIN 2: The Live Experience, from Chicago, IL is comprised of musician/songwriters from the best of Chicago’s indie/alternative/metal music scenes. From cutting their individual teeth in the top rock clubs of Chicago, often sharing stages with major international acts, LZ2 promptly gained national attention in 2010 and has sold out major rock music venues across the USA.

In concert, LZ2 delivers authentic renditions of classic Zeppelin material, as well as recreating the live improvisation & onstage dynamics that earned Led Zeppelin their legendary status for performing. LZ2 has performed across the US and draw rave reviews for a “spot-on” Zeppelin show, playing both deep cuts and classic tracks from the entire studio, live and bootleg catalog, and occasionally entire Led Zeppelin studio albums and performances from specific dates. LED ZEPPELIN 2 brings forward the Led Zeppelin experience to a new generation while satisfying diehard Zep fans with a raw, fresh approach.

RESERVED SEATING DONATION option includes a $25 tax-deductible donation to The Acorn and guarantees you a seat with optimal sightlines. $25 Donation per ticket holder in your group.

Tom Carey and the Ghost Runners

Saturday, Sep. 07 | 8:00pm ET (7:00pm CT)

Tom Carey’s songs are smart and compelling, sometimes surprisingly funny, and have drawn comparisons to John Hiatt, Lyle Lovett, John Prine and Jimmy Buffett. His roadhouse baritone brings to mind “blue-eyed soul” singers like Van Morrison, Gregg Allman and Delbert McClinton.

About the Artists:

For the past 15 years Tom has led Heartache Tonight, one of the most successful Eagles tributes in the U.S. But the desire to play original music never went away. “I’ve been dying to get this band in the studio, and I’ve been writing all along,” he says. Their new recording, Tom Carey & the Ghost Runners, features his Heartache Tonight bandmates Tom O’Brien, John Forrest, Bean Weng, Jim Altenbach and Chris Plasch. “We’ll be playing all the new stuff and some favorites from my first two CDs. I think people will enjoy the new take on some old songs and I’m looking forward to playing the new ones with these great musicians.”

RESERVED SEATING DONATION option includes a $25 tax-deductible donation to The Acorn and guarantees you a seat with optimal sightlines. $25 Donation per ticket holder in your group.

An Evening with River Raisin Ragtime Revue

Friday, Sep. 06 | 8:00pm ET (7:00pm CT)

An evening of ragtime music to benefit the School of American Music. The River Raisin Ragtime Revue is a professional theater orchestra dedicated to educating and entertaining via the performance, preservation and restoration of significant American music.

About the Artists:

The River Raisin Ragtime Revue (R4) is a professional theater orchestra dedicated to educating and entertaining via the performance, preservation and restoration of significant American music. R4 highlights the development of our country’s original popular musical style – ragtime. Utilizing a meticulously-researched and engaging narrative, R4 transports the audience to the cultural and social conditions of turn-of-the-century America. Special emphasis is given to the contributions of African American composers and the obstacles they overcame in attempting to gain acceptance of this unique, original art form.

The School of American Music

The School of American Music provides music education, free concerts, community service, and special events year round throughout Harbor Country.
schoolofamericanmusic.com

RESERVED SEATING DONATION option includes a $25 tax-deductible donation to The Acorn and guarantees you a seat with optimal sightlines. $25 Donation per ticket holder in your group.