Brit Floyd: Meet the Band

Damian Darlington – Musical Director
Born: Middlesbrough, Teesside in the 1960’s
Member since: 2011
Instruments: Guitar, lap steel, vocals
Previous projects: joined the Australian Pink Floyd Show at the beginning of 1994 and over a period of almost 17 years I went on to play close to 1,300 shows all over the world in theatres, halls and arenas such as The Albert Hall, Wembley & O2 arenas in London, the Bell Centre in Montreal and the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, to name a few. Over the last 10 years I’ve became increasingly interested in the visual production aspects of staging a rock concert and, working with Bryan Kolupski, have helped produce and direct all the video content for TAPFS shows. Working with my brother Gareth Darlington I also directed all the soundscape programming for the Aussie show. I acted as director for both TAPFS DVD releases and in 2007 I had the privilege of directing John Martyn’s Live at the Round House DVD.
Interesting fact: had the amazing experience of performing Comfortably Numb alongside Rick Wright at David Gilmour's 50th birthday party.

Rob Stringer
Born: Worcester, November 1978.
Member since: 2011
Instruments: Keyboards, vocals
Previous projects: Played keyboards on 2 previous Aussie Floyd US/Canadian tours. Have also recently performed in a Beatles theatre show. I was in Liverpool band Edgar Jones and The Joneses, touring Japan twice and performing on Mark Lamarr and Jonathan Ross BBC Radio 2 shows. Have done various live and recording session work over the years, performed on Later with Jools Holland with Candie Payne, we played after Joanna Newsom who played solo harp and before Nick Cave who just shouted down the mic with a load of white noise. I have also worked as a jazz pianist on the North West UK scene, playing in various groups and now have my own group, The Bobby Swing Trio in which I sing (or croon...) and play piano.
Interesting fact: I once performed piano in front of an audience where in the front row, sitting next to each other were Sir Paul McCartney, Yoko Ono, Sir George Martin, Olivia Harrison and Sir Peter Blake. I didn't know they were there and when I saw them all I nearly fell off the keyboard stool and my hands were shaking. Took a week to recover...

Ian Cattell
Born: July, 1969 in upstate NY.
Member since: 2011
Instruments: Bass guitar, vocals
Previous projects: In late 1994 I joined Crazy Diamond - The Real Reflections of Pink Floyd, and spent the next 2 years touring North America coast to coast, followed by another 2 years with P.U.L.S.E - The Pink Floyd Show (co-founded by Tom Chick and myself). In late 1997 I was a featured vocalist along with Tom Chick in an evening of Symphonic Pink Floyd with the Virginia Symphony. In 2002 I co-founded Childhood's End - a Tribute to Pink Floyd with Steve Schad, Eric Garboushian, and Gregory John. In 2005, I then took the opportunity to tour the world when I was tapped by The Australian Pink Floyd Show. They're still doing shows in New York State and beyond. I usually don't miss a chance to go see them myself. After over 500 shows in over 5 years with TAPFS, I'm excited to be working with Damian, Carl, Bobby, Rob, Arran, Emily, Jacquie, Ola, Gareth, Bryan, our fantastic crew, Chas Cole and all the hard working staff at CMP to bring Brit Floyd to PF fans around the world.
Interesting fact: As a member of the chorus, I performed Beethoven's 9th symphony in Carnegie Hall in New York City. I take my tea without milk... Sorry, my two interesting facts are: Carnegie Hall gig, tea no milk, and an almost fanatical devotion to Pink Flo... My THREE... no... Amongst… I'll come in again.

Edo Scordo
Born: Milan, in 1984
Member since: 2015
Instruments: Guitar, vocals
Previous projects: I was previously singer and guitarist for Brit Floyd's sister show, The Classic Rock Show. Before that I was with the Italian Pink Floyd tribute band “Euphonia”, and I work with Federico Cammarata and the "Pianeta Zero” band as well. I started to work as session musician at the age of 25, with Serena Antonelli, for who I recorded all the lead guitars in her album RESET, and played live for the Relative Italian tour. I have been lead singer and guitarist for another Pink Floyd tribute project, "Division Bell”. Another very interesting project which I was involved in was the “Quattroetreotto” band, one of the funniest band I’ve ever had; a great project leaded by an amazing crooner, Paolo Bianca (Notre Dame De Paris, "La Divina Commedia”: L’opera, Domenica In ). Actually I’m the director of the Lizard Music School of Pisa.
Interesting fact: One day … I’ll be a Doctor!!

Arran Ahmun
Born: Cardiff Docks, 1956
Member since: 2011
Instruments: Drums
Previous projects: I also performed regularly on the Jools Holland 'Happening' series. In ‘87 I recorded with Clannad and did two world tours with the band. Around this time I joined Julia Fordham, recording and touring her album Porcelain. During the late 80's I toured with Andy Summers in the USA followed by a spell touring and recording with Gerry Rafferty. In ‘86 I began a long and continuing association with John Martyn, joining his band for the 'Piece by Piece' tour. I’ve played on almost everything John has recorded since then. Throughout the 90's I continued extensive touring and recording with artists such as Alison Moyet, Linda Lewis, The Proclaimers (including two No. 1 hits), Robbie Robertson and the Jools Holland Big Band. I’ve also worked with Rhian Benson and Angie Stone. I continued to work with John Martyn until his death in January 2009.

Backing Vocals

This amazing group of talented woman consists of Ola Bienkowska, Angela Cervantes, Roberta Freeman, Emily Jollands, and Jacquie Williams. Bienkowska, Jollands, and Willams are the three oldest members and have been with the group since 2011, while Cervantes joined in 2013 and Freeman in 2014. Pink Floyd has been a large impact for many of these professional lives. Freeman has performed with the band, and even caused for the launch of her international career. Singers Cervantes and Jollands have also both performed in other Pink Floyd tribute bands in the past besides Brit Floyd.

Plan a trip to DeVos Performance Hall for a performance you don't want to miss. Tickets can be purchased here.

ArtPrize 7: DeVos Place houses four Top 20 finalists

DeVos Place ® is home to four finalists in ArtPrize 7, the international art competition that began on September 23 and ends October 11. Of the Top 20 public vote finalists, four installments are located in and outside of the Grand Gallery and cover a variety of platforms.


Here are the four finalists that you can find at DeVos Place:

Kurt Swanson, “The Race”
Kurt Swanson’s piece is a three-dimensional installment located inside of convention center. The piece includes three bicycles made entirely of wood with a portrait of the artist riding his bike into the “future.”

According to the artist, a variety of woods were used in creating the piece, including oak, mahogany, maple, bamboo, and aspen. This artwork is located on the skywalk level of the Grand Gallery.

Kurt has worked as a craftsman for over 25 years and owns Always August Designs, a wooden furniture company based in Grand Rapids.



Randall Libby, “Michigan Petoskey Stone”

Boasting the title of “World’s Largest Petoskey Stone Display,” this piece by Randall Libby represents the beautiful state of Michigan with Petoskey stones and fossil. The two-dimensional piece can be seen in front of the entrance to the Grand Gallery.

The piece portrays all 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Randall Libby creates unique Petoskey Stone and Fossil artwork through The Petoskey Art Studio.

Shawn Michael Warren, “In a Promised Land…”

Shawn Michael Warren’s “In a Promised Land…” recreates the chaos after the Tulsa race riot of 1921 that left affluent black communities in ruins. Shawn Michael Warren strives to create awareness of the often omitted event and bring attention to historically one of the most devastating moments of racial violence.

You can find this artwork on the skywalk level of the Grand Gallery.



Breakthrough Team, “BREAKTHROUGH”

This piece, located outside of the Grand Gallery main entrance, is creating awareness and fighting stigma surrounding mental health wellness and empowerment. The artwork is comprised of broken pieces of ceramic and formed into the shape of a phoenix rising amidst fire.

The community is welcome to join in on the creation of art by attending the “breaking studio” in which they are able to break ceramics in a symbolic gesture of acceptance and leaving behind judgments or shame.



The final day to vote is October 8 and the winner will be revealed at the ArtPrize Awards October 9. Check out these finalists at DeVos Place through October 11.

Five Reasons to be excited for Grand Rapids Comic-Con 2015

With the second annual Grand Rapids Comic-Con being held at DeVos Place in October, spectators can expect a fun-filled experience during the three day event. With costume contests, celebrities and vendors galore, attendees can expect to be entertained October 16th – 18th. Here are five reasons to be excited for Grand Rapids Comic-Con:

#1: Hall of Heroes Comic Book Historical Display

Comic book fans will rejoice at Comic-Con this year! Courtesy of the Hall of Heroes Museum located in Elkhart, Indiana, the Hall of Heroes Comic Book Historical Display will be in Grand Rapids! The Display has a variety of comic books and memorabilia for all the comic book lovers out there. Hall of Heroes is the only superhero and comic book museum in the entire world, and with items from DC and Marvel, this exhibit isn’t one you want to miss!

#2: A list full of Comic-Con V.I.P.s!

Whether you like comic book art, film, TV or Cosplay, you’ll be entertained with special guests from all realms. With an exclusive list, such as comic book artists from both DC Comics and Marvel, you’ll get to experience an up-close look into what it takes to make it in the industry. There will also be Hollywood guests from shows such as Star Trek: The Next Generation, Stargate SG-1, and many more! Be sure to check the full list here.

#3: Represent your Fandom here!

Are you a Jedi? A Trekker? A Whovian? Whatever fandom you belong to, Comic-Con will boast tons of memorabilia from Star Wars, Star Trek, DC/Marvel, Transformers, Doctor Who, Homestruck and so much more! From a life size replica of the Hulkbuster from The Avengers 2: Age of Ultron to a fully functioning Dalek from Doctor Who, be sure to represent your fandom and interact with your favorite groups at Grand Rapids Comic-Con!

#4: And the best costume award goes to… YOU!

Do you have what it takes to make the best costume? With a Best Costume contest in four different categories, you have a chance to get creative, show off your best garb, and win prize packs for each category! So stitch together your favorite character’s look and dress to impress. Show off you craftsmanship with the next best costume!

#5: Family Fun at DeVos Place!

Invite the little ones! Comic-Con can be a family affair! There will be family friendly exhibits, events and speakers that everyone can enjoy. Dress your family as your favorite superhero (or villain) troupe or sit in on a panel discussion about your favorite TV show or video game. For children, there will be a costume contest, face painting, and other activities. Parents are advised to stay with their children to monitor appropriately.

To get your tickets, please visit here! Haven’t been to a Comic-Con in the past and not sure what to expect? Check out Grand Rapids Comic-Con’s handbook for first time Comic-Con attendees. See you there!

Inspirational Chorus coming to Grand Rapids

Young@Heart is a twist-n’-shout group of energetic and talented singers who will be gracing the DeVos Performance Hall stage on August 11th. With a long history of entertaining audiences of all ages, Young@Heart has brought their unique sound and inspiring story to a variety of venues for the past few decades.


The chorus covers a variety of genres in their music, with performances including classic rock to modern day pop hits. Young@Heart have also toured around the world and even gave a touching performance for prison inmates. This versatile group of compelling performers has always put on a show and brings fun for music lovers of all ages.


Organized in 1982, the original members of the chorus came from an elderly housing project in Northampton, Massachusetts. From there, years of stellar productions and an award-winning documentary titled Young@Heart won the hearts of millions across the globe. With members aged between 72-93, these entertainers show the world that they’ve “still got it.”


The documentary, which was released in 2007, followed the 22 members of the chorus as they prepared for a concert in their hometown. Since the release of the film, the chorus has been featured on a variety of television shows such as The Daily Show, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and many more!


Don’t miss out! Buy your tickets to the Young@Heart Chorus presented by Porter Hills, live at DeVos Performance Hall here.

DeVos Place & Grand Rapids: 10 Years Strong-Part 4

DeVos Place celebrates 10th Anniversary with Celebration

Open House, Saturday, June 13th from 10AM - 5PM. 

#FBF: 10 Years of Fun

DeVos Place® wasn't always the grand convention center in the heart of Grand Rapids that it is now. The ground upon which it was built was once treaded on by Native Americans, ironmongers, factory workers, retailers and shoppers. With such an important part in Grand Rapids history, the land and area that DeVos Place is built upon has a vibrant history all its own.

Something New

In June 1997, Grand Action, a nonprofit organization that identifies downtown revitalization projects and building, presented information regarding a convention center expansion on the Grand Center. With Grand Rapids growing into a cultural hot spot, conventions would bring business and people to the city. Through a variety of fundraising efforts, the Convention Center Ceremonial Groundbreaking took place in August 2000. The Convention Center would be named DeVos Place. In 2003, the Grand Gallery and Meijer Exhibition Hall were opened with the final addition to the building being completed in 2005 with the opening of the DeVos Place Steelcase Ballroom.

DeVos Place brings Tourism to Grand Rapids

In the ten years that DeVos Place has brought conventions, events and culture to the city, it has been the center to a variety of fun and interesting shows. From bringing a Ferris wheel into the Exhibition Hall for the Grand Opening, to thousands of rabbits for American Rabbit Breeders Association and beyond. It has also been the pinnacle of its community with thousands of people attending events and millions being spent on the city, bringing forth a true economic impact.

Celebrating 10 Years in Style

DeVos Place is celebrating with an Open House on Saturday, June 13^th from 10AM-5PM! There will be free parking, free hot dog and Pepsi® for the first 10,000 people, Ferris wheel and much more! Community organizations such as the Kent District Library, Grand Rapids Police Department, the Harbor Humane Society, and many more will be present with a variety of activities for all ages. There will also be two entertainment stages with performances such as Jump with Jill, The Diemakers, Pacific Island Dancers, Bangarang Circus and much more! For a full list of performances,  and more information about the DeVos Place 10^th Anniversary Open House, please visit our Facebook or website!

DeVos Place & Grand Rapids: 10 Years Strong-Part 3

Before DeVos Place was built, the land was home to the Kent

 County Courthouse, Hall of Justice and the Grand Rapid Police Department.

#TBT: A "Grand A-Fair"

DeVos Place® wasn’t always the grand convention center in the heart of Grand Rapids that it is now. The ground upon which it was built was once treaded on by Native Americans, ironmongers, factory workers, retailers and shoppers. With such an important part in Grand Rapids history, the land and area that DeVos Place is built upon has a vibrant history all its own.

A Home for the Performing Arts

When the Great Depression hit Grand Rapids, it hit hard. With a decline in industry, jobs and residents, Grand Rapids was in need of relief, and that is what then City Manager, George Welsh, set out to bring to the city. The Civic Auditorium was constructed in 1932 as a relief project for the city and the people. It created jobs, cultural influence and more importantly, a home for the performing arts. The Civic Auditorium housed dances, films, theater and the Grand Rapids Symphony. It would later be renamed the George Welsh Civic Auditorium (name shortened to Welsh Auditorium over time) in 1974, in memory of George Welsh. In 2003, it would be demolished to make way for the ballroom in the newly expanded DeVos Place convention center, keeping its exterior face intact.

A Home for Justice

In 1962, the land beside the Welsh Auditorium was cleared for a new kind of facility. No longer in the land of factories and retail buildings, the cleared ground would be the home for the Hall of Justice, Kent County Courthouse, and the Grand Rapids Police Department. These structures were ultimately demolished in 2002 after the facilities were relocated.

A Grand Reprise

After much planning and fundraising, the convention center was built alongside the Welsh Auditorium, and was named the Grand Center. With fundraising efforts led by the DeVos and Blodgett families and the Grand Rapids community, the convention center was completed in the fall of 1980. The first annual “Celebration on the Grand” welcomed the opening of the Grand Center with a week full of events. An expansion of the facility would come years later.

Celebrating 10 Years

Celebrate Grand Rapids’ history and DeVos Place at the DeVos Place 10th Anniversary Open House on Saturday, June 13th from 10AM-5PM! It’s free and open to the public. Join us for fun, family-friendly activities, entertainment, prizes, food, and more!

This is the third of a four part series celebrating the 10th Anniversary of DeVos Place. The series will focus on the history of Grand Rapids and DeVos Place, as well as its impact on the community. Check back next Thursday for Part 4.

DeVos Place & Grand Rapids: 10 Years Strong-Part 2

Monroe St. was once the home to banks, 

retail stores and factory buildings. 

#TBT: Factories along the Grand River

DeVos Place® wasn't always the grand convention center in the heart of Grand Rapids that it is now. The ground upon which it was built was once treaded on by Native Americans, ironmongers, factory workers, retailers and shoppers. With such an important part in Grand Rapids history, the land and area that DeVos Place is built upon has a vibrant history all its own.

Furniture City, U.S.A.

At the turn of the century, a variety of industries existed in the river city. If you were to stand in DeVos Place today, you could be standing in what used to be the Bissell Inc. factory. The land was full of diverse factories and businesses. From the ever-growing lumber industry to powerhouse carpet cleaning company Bissell, another market emerged in Grand Rapids, one that would continue to make strides even today… furniture. After a rough period post World Wars I and II, the furniture industry blossomed and Grand Rapids was the center of it all. Factories once surrounded the land that would eventually become the home for DeVos Place. Through Grand Rapids’ rich history in a variety of industries, the river city became the pinnacle for economic and social growth.

Along the Grand

The Grand River would prove to be a useful natural feature of Grand Rapids for a variety of reasons. Louis Campau settled his village alongside the Grand River due to the versatile waterway and promising transportation of the river. With a beautiful view from the DeVos Place convention center, it’s no wonder that the area was home to so many previous businesses and factories. When visiting DeVos Place, you can step outside and overlook the river and admire the beauty of Grand Rapids!

A Change in the Currents

What was once the grounds for factories and production eventually yielded to a more cultural focus. Through a variety of theaters, retail shops, and office buildings, the location next to the Grand River over the years has become a prime location that has been influential to the city of Grand Rapids. 

Celebrating 10 Years

Celebrate Grand Rapids’ history and DeVos Place at the DeVos Place 10th Anniversary Open House on Saturday, June 13th from 10AM-5PM! It’s free and open to the public. Join us for fun, family-friendly activities, entertainment, prizes, food, and more!

This is the second of a four part series celebrating the 10th Anniversary of DeVos Place. The series will focus on the history of Grand Rapids and DeVos Place, as well as its impact on the community. Check back next Thursday for Part 3.

10 Reasons to be Excited for the DeVos Place 10th Anniversary Celebration Open House

DeVos Place® is celebrating 10 years since the opening of the convention center. The Open House has a lot of fun activities for you and your family. Here are 10 reasons why you should get ready for Saturday, June 13th from 10 AM - 5PM. 

#1: Fun Family Activities! 
DeVos Place’s Celebration Open House is full of family friendly activities for all ages! There will be entertainment for all with rides, activities and games from local vendors and much more!

#2: Your favorite community organizations!
Your favorite community organizations are joining us at DeVos Place to celebrate 10 great years! Some of these organizations include local favorites The Rapid, Grand Rapids Police and Fire Department, Circle Theatre, Paws with a Cause, the Kent District Library and many more! Come out and see the awesome organizations that are ready to provide a day full of fun for you and the family!

#3: Mascots, mascots, mascots!
What would a celebration be without mascots? We have a variety of your favorites stopping by the Open House, including West Michigan Whitecaps’ “Crash the River Rascal;” the Grand Rapids Griffin’s “Griff;” and Michigan State University’s “Sparty.” There will also be other characters roaming through the Open House, including Jungle Book characters from Circle Theatre, and many more. Don’t forget to take a picture with New Salem Corn Maze’s Patty the Prize Cow! Come and take a snapshot with your favorite characters at the Open House!

#4: We ♥ Animals! 
Come spend your Saturday by petting cute animals from the Critter Barn’s traveling farm. You will also get to meet our fellow K9 friends from the Grand Rapids Police Department and learn how helpful dogs are with Paws with a Cause! Pet Tales Rescue will also be there, with adoptable dogs available to check out all day! 

#5: Fun for all! 
Whether you’re here with the family or by yourself, there is an endless amount of fun at the DeVos Place 10th Anniversary Open House! Be sure to check out all of the local community organization booths and vendors. If you want some musical entertainment, check out critically-acclaimed Jump with Jill, entertainment for children that teaches them the importance of eating healthy! The Grand Rapids Children Museum will be hosting an obstacle course and providing a Lego table and the Kent District Library is bringing oversized games, keeping children and adults alike entertained!

#6: Free food!
If you’re a fan of a cold Pepsi® and a hot dog, be one of the first 10,000 people to show up to the Open House and you’ll receive them for free!

#7: A fun filled entertainment stage!
For this special 10th Anniversary, DeVos Place has an awesome line-up of talented performers to keep you busy on our entertainment stage. Performances include Alysha Sha from the DDA Buskers, Freehand Band, The Diemakers, and many more! Be sure to check out the stage with fun entertainment for all ages!* *Entertainers are subject to change.

#8: Be a Part of Grand Rapids History! 
DeVos Place and Performance Hall play a large part in Grand Rapids history. From being right in the heart of Grand Rapids and being right in the epicenter of arts and culture, DeVos Place has a vibrant history of its own. Be a part of that history and celebrate 10 years of a great partnership: Grand Rapids and DeVos Place!

#9: Prizes!
Do you like getting free stuff? So do we! A variety of organizations are giving away prizes such as tickets to local events, venues and much more! Be present at the Open House to enter and you may have a chance to win something cool!

#10: Celebrate!
DeVos Place finalized the convention center and opened its doors to the Grand Rapids community 10 years ago and it’s time to celebrate that! Come join us on Saturday, June 13th from 10 AM - 5PM! See you there!

DeVos Place & Grand Rapids: 10 Years Strong-Part 1

The grounds on which DeVos Place and DeVos Performance Hall are currently

located was the home of an assortment of Grand Rapids factories. 

#TBT: the 1800’s

DeVos Place® wasn’t always the grand convention center in the heart of Grand Rapids like it is now. The ground upon which it was built was once treaded on by Native Americans, ironmongers, factory workers, retailers, and shoppers. The land and area in which DeVos Place currently stands had a crucial role in the beginnings of the city of Grand Rapids and has a vibrant history all its own.

Grand Rapids roots

When French fur trader Louis Campau, nicknamed “the Fox” by the natives living in the area, bought his land on what is now the grounds for DeVos Place, he would become the “father of Grand Rapids.” The Campau trading post would be the pinnacle for city development. Campau laid out his village streets in the spoke style, an imitation of the ones used in France. The boundaries of his village were along the Grand River, Fulton Street, Division Avenue, and what is now Michigan Street, the heart of city today. Campau named his main street after President James Monroe, who had died in 1831.

The Fox vs. the Lyon

When Lucius Lyon, a land surveyor from New York, saw the value of the land next to the Grand River, he bought a large chunk of land just north of Campau’s. Lyon set his land with streets in the standard grid format, using compass directions instead of the radial setting that Campau used. The two settlers feuded over the name of the city, Campau insisting on keeping the name “Grand Rapids” versus Lyon, who wanted to rename the city “Kent.” With settlers attracted to the land, Lyon wanted to reconcile with Campau and connect their two settlements through Pearl Street.

Grand Rapids Business District

Canal Street through Pearl created an intricate intersection, with Monroe and Canal not meeting perfectly due to a variety of buildings that stood in the way. Ultimately, the buildings either burned down or were demolished, creating a public square that would be known as Campau Square, and today is known as Rosa Parks Circle.

Celebrating 10 Years

Celebrate Grand Rapids history and DeVos Place at the DeVos Place 10th Anniversary Open House on Saturday, June 13th from 10AM-5PM! It’s free and open to the public. Join us for fun, family-friendly activities, entertainment, prizes, food, and more!

This is the first of a four part series celebrating the 10th Anniversary of DeVos Place. The series will focus on the history of Grand Rapids and DeVos Place, as well its impact on the community. Check back next Thursday for Part 2.

John Mellencamp Announces “Plain Spoken” 2015 North American Tour

John Mellencamp announced dates for his upcoming Plain Spoken tour beginning in January 2015 throughout the summer. “The Voice of the Heartland” will play 80 shows including a stop in Grand Rapids at DeVos Performance Hall on Tuesday, June 9 at 7:30 PM. The special guest is Carlene Carter.

Tickets go on sale Friday, September 19th at 10:00AM at the DeVos Place® and Van Andel Arena® box offices, all Ticketmaster ticket centers, online at Ticketmaster.com, and charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Ticket prices will be $42, $65, $85, and $119.50. Prices are subject to change and a purchase limit of six tickets will apply. VIP packages will be available online only for $251.50 and include amazing reserved tickets in the first ten rows, limited edition memorabilia and much more!

On September 23rd, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer John Mellencamp will release one of the most distinguished records of his career, Plain Spoken on Republic Records. Plain Spoken includes ten stunningly elegant and soul-searching Americana gems.

Concert goers will receive a digital download of the Plain Spoken record with purchase of tickets to the tour. (One download code per ticket for online and phone purchases only; does not apply to box office or outlet ticket purchases.)

“The music looks back toward … ‘Blood On The Tracks,’ with strummed guitars, brushes on the drums and neck-rack harmonica, and the words ponder trouble, power, love, God, freedom and mortality,” says THE NEW YORK TIMES. Plain Spoken is set to be hailed as an unparalleled new chapter in Mellencamp’s distinctive songbook.

Grammy-winning musician John Mellencamp has touched the heart and souls of music listeners and influenced American Culture with enduring songs. He is also one of the most successful live concert performers in the world. A man with a conscience, he used his visibility and influence to advocate an issue that hit close to home and became one of the founding members of Farm Aid, an organization that began in 1985 to raise awareness about the loss of family farms. The Farm Aid concerts have raised over $45 million to promote a resilient family farm system of agriculture.

In 2014, he also signed a historic "lifetime recording contract" with Republic Records for the release of Plain Spoken and all of his albums to follow. Universal Music Enterprises continues to represent the artist's prominent catalog as well. Mercury/UME recently released his latest live album, John Mellencamp Sings Trouble No More Live at Town Hall, this past summer.

Christian Artist TobyMac to Play DeVos Performance Hall in November

Christian hip-hop/pop artist TobyMac will return to Grand Rapids to play DeVos Performance Hall this fall. The former dc Talk rapper will bring singer/songwriters Matt Maher and special guest Ryan Stevenson with him for the Sunday, November 23, 2014 show that is slated for a 7:00 PM start. 

Tickets will cost $20.50, $25.50, $35.50, $45.50 and will go on sale Friday, July 18, 2014 at 10:00 AM. Tickets will be available at the DeVos Place® and Van Andel Arena® box offices, Ticketmaster ticket centers, online at Ticketmaster.com, or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

From his early days in influential group dc Talk to his very first solo album, Momentum, Toby has worked hard to inspire his audience with words of conviction, hope, empowerment and the redemption found in his faith in God.  He furthers that vision on his latest release, the thrilling Eye On It, produced by Toby, Christopher Stevens, David Garcia and Jamie Moore.

Toby has clearly been taking all the right steps, moving through the often prideful music business with a sense of humility that belies his success. With over 11 million units in career sales, TobyMac continues to take his career to new levels. Eye On It gained him the GRAMMY® Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album and the highest chart debut of his solo career landing at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200 and topping the iTunes® Overall and Christian sales charts. The project made TobyMac one of only four artists to ever debut atop the Billboard Top 200 with a Christian music album.

His previous four solo projects have received RIAA Gold certification. His 2009 album Tonight received GRAMMY® nods for Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album and Best Contemporary Christian Song.

In all, TobyMac has received five GRAMMY® awards, two Billboard Music Awards for Top Christian Artist and Top Christian Album, an American Music Award for Favorite Artist in the Contemporary/Inspirational category, Dove Awards for "Artist of the Year," "Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year," "Recorded Music Packaging of the Year," "Short Form Video of the Year," KLOVE Music Awards for “Artist of the Year” and swept the 2013 Australian Music Awards. 

Special Invitation from Community Inclusion Group

*Keith Sweat on August 2nd has been cancelled. If you purchased tickets at our box office, refunds have been processed automatically. Otherwise, refunds are available at the point of sale.

The Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority’s (CAA) Community Inclusion Group (CIG) would like to invite you to join our VIP List. By joining our VIP List, you will have information about events and attractions delivered right to your inbox. Simply click here to join and see a full list of events and attractions coming to YOUR community venues. If social media is more your speed, we invite you to connect with us:

Facebook
Van Andel Arena
DeVosPlace/DeVos Performance Hall

Twitter
@VanAndelArena
@DeVosPerfHall
@DeVosPlaceMeet

Instagram
@VanAndelArenaGR

By way of background, the CAA owns and operates the Van Andel Arena®, DeVos Place® and DeVos Performance Hall. The CAA’s mission is to encourage economic development within the West Michigan region, create jobs and provide facilities for the entertainment, enjoyment and/or benefit of the citizens in an economical manner by developing and operating convention, entertainment, and sports facilities within Kent County.

In 2005, CAA Board Chair Steve Heacock established a subcommittee to examine the reach of the CAA’s diversity efforts and to prepare a plan that includes financially viable actions for the CAA to undertake. Today, this group is known as the CIG. The CIG is a committee comprised of local community leaders who help identify and ensure that viable diverse events and programming take place at the venues. With this in mind, we are committed to making sure that you are in the know about events and attractions that come to the CAA’s venues and to the greater downtown area. Please consider joining our e-mail list and feel free to forward the link along to those who may have an interest, including co-workers, friends, family, Greek organizations, congregation members, etc.

Jam Band Royalty Bob Weir & RatDog Making Their Way to Grand Rapids

With a touring history that has made him one of the most traveled road musicians of all time and a restless music personality that has kept him occupied for over 50 years, Weir knows a thing or two about staying fresh and living in the moment. Although best known as one of the founding members of the Grateful Dead, adding Dead staples such as “Truckin’,” “Sugar Magnolia,” and “Cassidy” to the band’s catalog, Weir obtained a long and affluent music career that has allowed him to do what he loves and share it with others for nearly his entire life.

Weir and RatDog will play DeVos Performance Hall on Tuesday, June 10, 2014 at 7:00 PM. All tickets will be $49.50 and will be available at the DeVos Place convention center and Van Andel Arena box offices, Ticketmaster ticket centers, online at Ticketmaster.com, or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Tickets go on sale Friday, April 25, 2014 at noon.

Born in 1947, Weir was adopted by a wealthy California engineer. As a teen, he secured his spot as one of the youngest members of the burgeoning folk scene that centered on a Palo Alto club called the Tangent—home to such future rock legends as Jerry Garcia, Jefferson Airplane guitarist Jorma Kaukonen and Janis Joplin. In 1964, at the age of 17, Weir spent the majority of his time at a Palo Alto music store where Garcia taught guitar lessons. It wasn’t long before Weir and Garcia, along with Ron “Pigpen” McKernan, formed a blues and folk outfit. Originally called Mother McCree’s Uptown Jug Champions, the band was later renamed The Warlocks—adding Phil Lesh and Bill Kreutzman to the lineup—and eventually came to be known as the Grateful Dead.

Weir’s odd rhythm style developed as he played between the sweet articulated lead of Garcia and the avant-garde bass lines of Lesh. His songwriting developed as well, taking off particularly in the 1970s when he crossed paths with former pal John Perry Barlow. The two began producing songs in Weir’s own distinct style, spurring a songwriting partnership that would last for years to come.

Even with the Dead playing close to 100 shows a year, Weir needed other musical outlets. 1972 brought the release of his first solo album, Ace, on which the rest of the Dead backed him. Throughout the rest of the 1970s Weir toured and recorded with a number of different groups, the first of which was Kingfish. After releasing an album with the band in 1976, Weir began a solo project with producer Keith Olsen called Heaven Help the Fool. A brief tour to support the album resulted in collaborations with various session players, including Brent Mydland (who would join the Dead in 1979), Bobby Cochran, Alphonso Johnson and Billy Cobham. Weir also briefly toured with a group as Bobby and the Midnites, producing two albums.

Throughout the late 1980s and during the first half of the 1990s, the Dead remained Weir’s primary gig. Touring incessantly while all the while building up a community of “Deadheads,” the band finally found commercial success with their 1987 album, In the Dark. When Garcia died in 1995, Weir had just recently formed RatDog with Rob Wasserman, a bassist he had been playing duo shows with since the late 1980s. After Garcia’s death, former Primus drummer Jay Lane and ex-Kingfish harmonica/guitar player Matthew Kelly were added into the mix. With a revolving lineup, the group toured relentlessly, building a name for themselves while performing a mix of new Weir compositions and older, reworked Dead songs.

In 1998, Weir reunited with several former Dead bandmates to tour as The Other Ones, releasing a live album in 1999 and hitting the road again in 2000. The same year, RatDog released their first album, Evening Moods. In 2009, original Grateful Dead members Weir, Lesh, Kreutzmann and Mickey Hart teamed up with guitarist Warren Haynes and RatDog keyboardist Chimenti to tour as the Dead. The results, however, were erratic, leaving Weir feeling like the road trip was more work than fun and Lesh saying the music didn’t seem to be moving forward. Besides stirring up some commotion, the ’09 Dead tour reminded Weir and Lesh of the chemistry the two had as bandmates. This led to the creation of Furthur—arguably one of the most successful Dead projects Weir has participated in to date.

Currently, Weir is married to the former Natascha Muenter, with whom he has two young daughters, Monet and Chloe. While not consumed by music, Weir spends a great deal of time as a social activist. He has done work as an environmental activist with several organizations, such as Greenpeace, and currently serves on the Board of Advisors for theRainforest Action Network and for Seva Foundation. He works with both the Rex Foundation, an organization started by the Dead in 1984, and the Furthur Foundation. Most recently, Weir is on the Board of Directors for Headcount, a nonprofit that registers voters and inspires participation in democracy through the power of music.

A long, strange, very creative trip—and not remotely over. Keep up with Bob on Facebook or follow him on Twitter: @BobWeirRatDog.

Blues Rock Star Joe Bonamassa to Headline DeVos Performance Hall

Award-winning blues rock star, guitar hero and singer-songwriter Joe Bonamassa and his ace touring band will perform in concert at Grand Rapids’ DeVos Performance Hall on March 21, 2011 at 8PM.

Tickets are $39, $49, $59 and $69 and go on sale Saturday, November 6 at 10 am at Ticketmaster.com, DeVos Place and Van Andel Arena Box Offices, Ticketmaster outlets or charge by phone at 800-745-3000

The one-night-only show is in support of his upcoming, as yet untitled album which will be released on Bonamassa’s J&R Adventures label in March 2011. Bonamassa’s last album, 2010’s Black Rock, debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Blues Albums Chart and #38 on Billboard’s Top 200 Chart, a huge leap from 2009’s The Ballad of John Henry which debuted at #136 on the Top 200. In addition to the success of Black Rock and Black Country Communion’s stellar debut, 2010 kicked off with Guitar World dubbing Bonamassa “The Blues Rock Titan” and his song, “Lonesome Road Blues,” was included in Guitar Hero V’s New Blues Masters Track Pack. He was also honored twice in Guitar Player Magazine’s June 2010 Readers’ Choice Awards winning “Best Overall Guitarist” for the first time and “Best Blues Guitarist” for the fourth consecutive year. On June 26, he played the main stage at Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival in Chicago.

A child prodigy, Bonamassa opened shows at age 12 for blues legend B.B. King, who said after first seeing him play, “This kid's potential is unbelievable…He's one of a kind.” Bonamassa’s recording career began in the early ’90s with Bloodline, a rock-blues group also featuring Robby Krieger’s son Waylon and Miles Davis’ son Erin. His solo debut was in 2000 with the Tom Dowd-produced A New Day Yesterday.

Grand Rapids International Wine and Food Festival Offers "Finer" Things...

An annual pre-holiday event! Now in its third year, this festival has established itself as Michigan's premier event for the celebration and tasting of the finest foods, wines, beers and spirits. From the connoisseur who lives and breathes for the finer things in life to the novice looking for an introduction to the world of food and spirits, the International Wine & Food Festival will deliver a grand experience that is sure to please every palette.

The Grand Rapids International Wine & Food Festival returns to the elegance of the Steelcase Ballroom at DeVos Place, Thursday through Saturday, November 18-20, 2010.

Thursday, November 18; 5pm - 9pm
Friday, November 19; 3pm - 9pm
Saturday, November 20; 12pm - 9pm

You are invited to join in the pre-holiday festivities, where the city’s finest restaurants, along with vintners and brewers from throughout the world, come together for a gastronomic and social event unlike anything Grand Rapids has experienced before. This is the “must attend” culinary celebration of the year!

This show gives you the opportunity to sample from more than 1,250 of the finest wines, beers and spirits, depending on your personal preferences.

Admission* to the Grand Rapids International Wine & Food Festival is $15 per person and includes:
· Your sampling glass and official show program, published by Grand Rapids Magazine, containing a detailed list of wines, beers, spirits and foods available for your tasting pleasure.
· All seminars in our wine, beer & spirits seminar rooms.
· All seminars at the Meijer Food Stage.
· All food workshops.

This show gives you the opportunity to sample from more than 1,250 of the finest wines, beers and spirits, depending on your personal preferences. Other special features of the Festival include a focus on Grand Rapids Sister Cities. Our sister city of Omihachiman will be bringing the master chef from the Hotel New Omi, along with the president of the hotel. Chef Kotani will conduct a cooking demonstration of authentic cuisine from the region on Saturday on the Meijer Food Stage. A sake seminar will take place on Saturday as well in one of the wine, beer & spirits seminar rooms and entertainment from some of the city’s finest musicians will be provided throughout the show.

Novices and foodies unite! Anticipate…consume…savor…it’s all in good taste!

Tickets for the Grand Rapids International Wine & Food Festival may be purchased in advance online here or at any Ticketmaster Outlet.

Click here for more show info, features/attractions, seminar schedules and much more!

*Attendees must be at least 21 years of age to enter.

ArtPrize art continues initial treks to DeVos Place: Ana Zalovsky brins her ArtPrize entry in!

Ana Zalovsky is the second of 53 artists to showcase their art at DeVos Place. Good luck, Ana!

Click here to visit our Facebook Fan Page for a brief bio on Ana and her work.

ArtPrize 2010, an international art contest decided solely by public vote, officially begins Wednesday, September 22 and runs to Sunday, October 10.

Don't miss Art Fair 2010!
During ArtPrize, thousands of people will be in Grand Rapids for one reason: to see, experience and discuss art. And thanks to Art Fair, every one of them can browse or buy artwork* from over 50 registered ArtPrize artists. Held in centrally-located DeVos Place, at the heart of the ArtPrize district, Art Fair 2010 provides another exciting way for artists and the public to connect. Wander through our booths at DeVos Place to find a one-of-a-kind piece of art that speaks to you.

*Artwork entered in ArtPrize is not available for purchase.

Buy 1, Get 1 FREE 'Best of The Best' MMA Tickets-Today and Tomorrow ONLY!

Come check out amatuer competitors fighting their way into the professional ranks—right here in Grand Rapids. See tomorrow's MMA icons today!

Tickets available at http://www.ticketmaster.com/, the DeVos Place Box Office, Forever Ink Tattoos, Grand Rapids Harley Davidson or at any of the gyms involved.General Admission tickets are $27.50 in advance or $32.50 at the door. VIP tickets are $52.50 in advance or $57.50 at the door.

Doors open at 6:00pm. Fights are from 7:30pm - 11:00pm. Click here for more information.

Broadway Grand Rapids to Offer Individual Ticket Sales for Five Shows Beginning Monday, September 20th

Broadway Grand Rapids will begin offering individual tickets sales for five shows beginning Monday, September 20th at 10AM on Ticketmaster.com. Pre-sales begin September 13th for EClub members. The Broadway Grand Rapids EClub is open to the public by signing up at www.broadwaygrandrapids.com/eclub.

Shows to be on-sale include LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL ~ November 23-28, 2010, NEW SHANGHAI CIRCUS ~ February 15, 2011, THE ALUMINUM SHOW ~ February 20, 2011, CHICAGO ~ May 10th-11th, 2011 and STOMP ~ May 20-22, 2011.

Individual tickets to GREASE ~ March 1-6, 2011 and SHREK THE MUSICAL ~ June 21-26, 2011 will not be included in this on-sale event, but are currently available as part of a series subscription package. Subscription packages are still available and may be purchased by calling 616-235-6285.

Broadway Grand Rapids tickets are available at the DeVos Performance Hall box office, all Ticketmaster locations, http://www.ticketmaster.com/ or via phone at 1-800-745-3000. Group discounts for 10 or more are available by calling 616-742-6185. For more information on the Fifth Third Bank Broadway Grand Rapids series visit http://www.broadwaygrandrapids.com/.

Broadway GR presents Rodgers and Hammerstein's South Pacific

"Simply Wonderful! Beguiling Theatrical Magic!" hails the New York Post for Rodgers & Hammerstein's SOUTH PACIFIC. A stunning reinvention produced by Lincoln Center Theater, SOUTH PACIFIC swept the 2008 Tony Awards, winning seven honors including Best Musical Revival and Best Director for Bartlett Sher. The breathtaking new production features a cast of 34 and a full orchestra of 26 members - the largest orchestra of any touring Broadway production.

Set on a tropical island during World War II, the musical tells the sweeping romantic story of two couples and how their happiness is threatened by the realities of war and by their own prejudices. The beloved score's songs include "Some Enchanted Evening," "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair," "This Nearly Was Mine" and "There is Nothin" Like a Dame." USA Today cheers, "★★★★! Gorgeous! SOUTH PACIFIC doesn't just float; it soars!"

Based on James Michener's Pulitzer Prize winning book Tales of the South Pacific, Rodgers & Hammerstein's SOUTH PACIFIC has music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, a book by Oscar Hammerstein II and Joshua Logan and is directed by 2008 Tony Award-winner Bartlett Sher.

The show will be at DeVos Performance Hall on the following dates:

o Tues–Thurs., Sept. 7-9 at 7:30 PM (Ticket prices $32-$62)
o Fri., Sept. 10 at 8:00 PM (Ticket prices $37-$67)
o Sat., Sept. 11 at 2:00 PM & 8:00 PM (Ticket prices $37-$67)
o Sun., Sept. 12 at 1:00 PM (Ticket prices $37-$67)
o Sun., Sept. 12 at 6:30 PM (Ticket prices $32-$62)

For more information/to buy tickets, go to:
http://www.ticketmaster.com/venue/65699/?brand=devos

Groups of 15 or more save! Call 616.742.6185,
e-mail groupsales@smggr.com or order on-line at devosperformancehall.com/groupsales