ST. MARYS, Ohio (WLIO) — Patriotic music and classic American favorites filled the air Sunday afternoon as the Saint Marys Area Community Band performed during the Grand Opera Outdoor Concert Series at the St. Marys Theater and Grand Opera House.
The free concert featured music inspired by iconic American events, including the Apollo 11 mission, songs from classic American movies and patriotic favorites. It marked the third performance in the outdoor concert series, which has also featured tribute bands performing the music of Steely Dan, Elton John and Billy Joel.
“A lot of the funding for this came from the City of St. Mary's lodging tax grant that we applied for and were awarded the funds and the concept there is not only to have things for St. Mary's to do but bring people from out of town to downtown St. Mary's,” says Doug Spencer, Friends of the St. Marys Theater and Grand Opera House.
The ongoing restoration of the historic 1895 theater and opera house reached its fifth year this week. Organizers say funding from the state of Ohio, along with donations from individuals and companies such as Nidec Minster, has helped move the project into its final stages.
“Some ways it seems like we have moved mountains in a short amount of time and there's some ways that it seems like we've been dragging a boat anchor as well. But we're very close to getting this project done and all the while we've been able to operate, which is kind of crazy but unique and amazing as well. It's just a beautiful gift that St. Mary's 1895 gave to St. Mary's and the region,” adds Spencer.
The Grand Opera Outdoor Concert Series will continue during the St. Marys Summer Fest with a free performance by Cincinnati Transit Authority, a Chicago tribute band.
The concert is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 13, at 8 p.m. at the Nidec Minster Grand Pavilion at the St. Marys Theater and Grand Opera House.
