By Lookout Staff
May 31, 2017 -- Santa Monica is celebrating the recent renovations to Christine Emerson Reed Park with a series of free open-air concerts starting next month, City officials announced Tuesday.
The "Meet Me at Reed" series kicks off Saturday, June 10 at 6:15 p.m. when the Orchestra Santa Monica Woodwind Quintet takes the stage at the park's new outdoor performance area adjacent to the Miles Playhouse.
Two weeks later on Saturday, June 24 at the same venue and time, vibraphonist Nick Mancini, who has played with top jazz musicians, will perform with his Organ Trio.
The series continues Saturday, July 15, at 5:30 p.m. when String Theory utilizes several areas of the renovated park -- which includes winding pathways and native plants -- to make music in a family-friendly performance.
The group also will string their "beautiful custom performance harps outside on the giant Eucalyptus trees," organizers said.
The series concludes with what organizers are billing as Santa Monica’s first ever "A Cappella Picnic" featuring eight different vocal groups that range from a vocal trio to a choir numbering more than 30 singers.
The afternoon will also feature a special “beat box” segment showcasing some of the region's finest beat boxers, organizers said.
The free concerts will offer a chance to enjoy music at the renovated park, which features new exercise equipment and picnic and chess tables.
"There’s nothing better in summer than lawn chairs, a cheese plate, and the sound of local music in one of our wonderful parks," organizers said.
Free parking will be available at 808 Wilshire Boulevard, but biking, walking and taking the Big Blue Bus to the concerts is encouraged.
For questions, contact MilesPlayhouse@SMGov.Net.
