Freeman Stage unveils 2012 performances schedule
Delaware's coastal communities have long supported the arts, and that's a concept the Joshua M. Freeman Foundation embraces and runs with. This year, Freeman Foundation celebrates the fifth season of supporting the arts in conjunction with Bayside community’s Freeman Stage. The Joshua M. Freeman Foundation and the Freeman Stage released the 2012 performance schedule March 15.
The Freeman Stage's national acts last year included LeeAnn Rimes and the B-52s. This season's marquee will include names such as Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes, John Tesh: Big Bad Live, Darius Rucker and Marvin Hamlisch. The Freeman Stage will also feature musical acts including the original cast of Broadway's Jersey Boys - The Midtown Men, Cirque Montage, Delaware Symphony Orchestra, Clear Space Theatre Group, Jesse Garron's tribute to Elvis, the Bronx Wanderers and the Morgan State University Choir. For tickets and information go to freemanstage.org.
Big acts aren’t the only thing the Freeman Foundation is attracting. The PNC Foundation will join the Freeman Foundation as sponsor to help bring the arts to Sussex County’s children by supporting the Saturday morning children’s summer program. This program is free for children and allows them to experience the arts to enrich their life experiences.
The Freeman Foundation, in turn, continues to invest in its community, working with youth and children. Diaz Bonville, founder of West Rehoboth Children and Youth Program, said he is making it his mission to help the youth of West Rehoboth by giving them meaningful experiences. They couldn’t do it, he says, without a grant from the Freeman Foundation enabling children in his program to enjoy productions on the Freeman Stage.
“They have such a great time,” he said. “It’s so important that they are exposed to as many venues as possible because otherwise they wouldn’t see them.”
The facilities are plush with a sprawling lawn and inviting atmosphere. Dancing on the lawn is encouraged, and refreshments are available at the Stage Café, including beer, wine and a light-fare menu.
Many acts are free, including Saturday morning performances for children. Others cost a mere $10 per person. The official performance season starts Saturday, May 26, with a Cirque Montage. Tickets for all events this summer are now on sale.
For more information call 302-436-3015 or go to freemanstage.org.
