A new lunchtime concert series in Civic Space Park will be taking over the Wednesday lunch hour from now until May.
Every Wednesday from 11:45 a.m to 1 p.m. the park, located between Central and First avenues north of Van Buren Street, will showcase different local artists in this free public event.
“The park is very important to downtown Phoenix,” said David Urbinato, a spokesman for City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation. “We have staff who are experts in concert production, and this is a great way to reach out to the local downtown community.”
Arizona Blues Hall of Fame Inductee, Hans Olson headlined the first concert Wednesday. Olson is involved in many charitable organizations such as the Phoenix Blues Society and the Arizona Green Party and plays in benefit concerts for them frequently.
“I think events like (lunchtime concerts) make downtown more attractive and brings the neighborhood to life,” journalism sophomore Ashton Buccola said.
Other notable artists that will be performing include the Phoenix College Big Band, Mike Torres and the Irish Culture Center Performance Academy.
The event garnered a weak audience, despite promotion on the City of Phoenix website, social media and an email newsletter.
Marie Popoe, a Phoenix local, saw a sign posted for the event near the park and decided to stop by, but said she did not otherwise know about the event.
The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is sponsoring the event and has recruited local talent for the performing and visual arts.
Artists interested in performing can call 602-262-7424 for more information.
Contact the reporter at brittany.mcgonagle@asu.edu
