The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center’s Summer Sizzle Series continues when Dave Mason, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and co-founder of the legendary rock band Traffic, hits the stage with his Alone Together Again Tour on Tuesday, July 11, at 8:00 p.m. Along with his band, he performs his 1970 debut solo album, “Alone Together” in its entirety including hits like “Feelin’ Alright,” “All Along the Watchtower” and “Dear Mr. Fantasy.” Tickets range from $29.50 to $45.50 and can be purchased by calling 508-994-2900, online at www.zeiterion.org, or at the Zeiterion Box Office at 684 Purchase Street in New Bedford. Group sales are available for 10 tickets or more, which can be purchased by calling 508-997-5664 x123.

This is a tour Dave has wanted to do for quite some time stating, “’Alone Together’ was an important album for me and I still love those songs.” Fans can expect to hear Dave and his band members Johnne Sambataro (guitar, vocals), Alvino Bennett (drums), and Tony Patler (keyboards), play the “Alone Together” classics along with a great selection of hits from his illustrious career. Photos and firsthand autobiographical commentary complement the music.

Mason founded Traffic with Steve Winwood in 1967 while both were still teenagers, and created music that would find its way into the hearts of generations of music lovers. In those early days, he penned the Traffic hit “Feelin’ Alright.” It became a global rock anthem and has been recorded by dozens of artists including Joe Cocker.

After extensive touring with Traffic throughout the UK and Europe, Mason headed for the U.S. to pursue a solo career and achieved gold-album status with his million-selling debut solo, “Alone Together.” It was known for its psychedelic marbleized vinyl and the hits “Only You Know and I Know,” “World in Changes” and “Shouldn’t Have Took More Than You Gave.”

His album, “Let It Flow” (1977) sold millions of copies features the hit, “We Just Disagree.” Mason’s guitar work can be heard on landmark albums and songs such as the Rolling Stones’ “Beggars Banquet,” George Harrison’s “All Things Must Pass,” Paul McCartney’s “Listen to What the Man Said” and Jimi Hendrix’s “Electric Ladyland.” Hendrix’s rock standard, “All Along the Watchtower” features Dave playing the acoustic guitars before Hendrix’s soaring entrance onto the track.

Dave Mason’s work and career remain linked with rock and roll elite, including Eric Clapton, Steve Winwood, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Fleetwood Mac, Graham Nash, Stephen Stills, Leon Russell, and Mama Cass Elliot, among others.

Dave Mason’s career spans several rock eras and encompasses his work as a producer, performer, songwriter and guitarist. In 2004, Mason was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his work with Traffic.

Mason is also involved in the program he co-founded, Work Vessels for Veterans, an all-volunteer movement that provides veterans with the tools they need to transition to civilian work.

The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center is a non-profit organization with a mission to provide New Bedford and the region with performing arts programming of excellence that inspires, educates, engages and entertains. Tickets are available for purchase at www.zeiterion.org, by calling 508-994-2900, or in person at the box office at 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford, Mass. Zeiterion Box Office hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and two hours before each performance.

Halloween is one America’s favorite holidays. Whether a kid or an adult with a big kid inside, it is a celebration that families look forward to every year. What’s not to like? Dressing up as our favorite super hero or villian, cartoon character, or…ahem, disliked politician. Role playing is not only acceptable, it’s encouraged.

We run around the neighborhood playing tricks on one another, trying to find opportune moments to scare family and friends, and get to devour our favorites candies, chocolates and treats with relative abandon. Days leading up to the holiday are just as exciting as the days leading up to Christmas Morning. There’s excitement in the air!

Our yards and homes get decorated – some just with simple cardboard cutouts in the window, others with elaborate setups that cost thousands of dollars, including graveyards, actors and smoke machines. Everyone enjoys a good fright – the trick part of the “trick or treat.” This is the reason there are so many haunted houses, trails, hayrides and even ships.

However, the only thing scarier than these spooky sites is the money spent celebrating the holiday. When you look at the receipt after buying all the costumes, candy and decorations, paying the entrance fees to haunted sites, you are nearly frightened to death. It’s worse than the boogeyman under the bed, the man with a machete hiding outside your bedroom window in a hockey mask, or a clown chasing you down the street with an ax.

With that in mind, we put together a guide that will cover all budgets. This will allow you to choose one or more places, perhaps all of them without costing you an arm and a leg (chop, chop!) You won’t have to fill the gas tank and drive 50 miles, you won’t have to take out a small bank loan to pay admission, and you won’t have to have sign a contract with Mephistopheles to make it all happen.

We’ve done all the work for you so that you and your family can stay focused on what’s important: entertaining the family, having a blast, and creating memories. I’ve included a “scare factor” rating (1-10) so you can, well, factor in who is going, their age, health condition, etc. So, don’t be scared homie….read on!

01. Fall River Factory of Terror

The Fall River House of Terror is a mill building where actors are constantly jumping out of the shadows, calling out your name, and otherwise terrifying you every moment from the entrance to exit. The 30 room house is haunted by the 113 factory workers who were mysteriously butchered in what is referred to as the Bloodworth Dungeon. The lone survivor was sent to the psych ward of a State Hospital, however, he ended up dying from mental torment, repeating “Bloodworth Dungeon Massacre” until his last breath.

The house is packed with actors and state of the art effects and each room is diabolically devised to squeeze the most scare – or pee – out of you. That includes one room that that gets completely blacked out, leaving you to grope around in the dark….bumping into who knows what. A variation of that theme is special nights called “Lights Out” night where the entire factory goes dark and you only have a small finger light to guide your way.

The website actually warns those that are pregnant or faint of heart to NOT visit. You’ve been warned.

Fall River House of Terror
33 Pearl St
Fall River, Massachusetts
(508) 324-4077

Website: factoryofterror.com/fallriver/
Facebook: facebook.com/factoryofterror/
October 4th-October 31st
Tickets are as low as $19.99 and price depends on a number of deals that they offer across all three locations.

SCARE FACTOR: 8

02. New Bedford Haunted Whaleship

Now for something completely different: a haunted whaleship. There are a haunted battleship and haunted pirate ship that I am aware, but I can’t imagine there are many haunted whaleships. Where else but New Bedford would have one! This family-friendly Halloween event is geared for children 12 and under and not made to terrorize you like the other ones on this list.

The kids will dress up in their favourite costumes and meet ghosts for the Whaling City’s seafaring past throughout the tour which include walking through the mad whaling captain’s lair. Since the focus is more on fun, there will be plenty of arts & crafts as well as refreshments.

In addition to the annual Haunted Whaleship, this year (2018) there will be a “Spooky Science of the Sea” event on October 27th from 2:00pm-5:00pm, which is free with admission. Read more here.

New Bedford Haunted Whaleship
New Bedford Whaling Museum
18 Johnny Cake Hill
508-997-0046 ext. 100

Website: whalingmuseum.org
SCARE FACTOR: 2 

03. Halloween Horror at Roxanne’s Garden Center

This Haunted House is your quintessential, classic haunted house. This is the style of haunted house that started it all – a small building with creatively spooky rooms, a few actors, and lots of scares. This pop-up last about 20 minutes and the fee is voluntary – donations are accepted. So, if you are really broke this year and want a scare for the family, this is up your alley…let’s just hope that alley doesn’t have Jack the Ripper waiting.

Halloween Horror at Roxanne’s Garden Center
185 Alden Road,
Fairhaven, MA
SCARE FACTOR: 6 

04. Haunted Academy in Fairhaven

This kinder, gentler version of a haunted house is perfect if you have children with you or just prefer not to have your heart pounding out of your chest for 30 minutes. Having said that, if you like something that isn’t so tame it’s silly and do want a little bit of fright, the Haunted Academy is perfect.

The Fairhaven Office of Tourism sponsors this haunted attraction with spooky scenes and costumed characters both outside and inside the Visitors Center/Academy Building. You’ll encounter the re-incarnation of Lizzie Borden, a haunted toy shop, Mrs Lovett in her “meat” pie shop, a mad scientist and his creepy monster creation, a foggy graveyard with undead denizens, and more.

Best of all? The haunted academy is completely free thanks to the Fairhaven Office of Tourism. For a short haunted tour that is not too scary, but not too tame, this is the perfect place to visit.

Haunted Academy in Fairhaven
Fairhaven Academy Building
141 Main Street, Fairhaven
Parking in Fairhaven High School lot
Friday, Saturday and Sunday, October 26-28
6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Website: fairhaventours.com/haunted-academy/
SCARE FACTOR: 5 

05. Lizzy Borden House

We all know walking into a haunted house that it is made up of actors dressed in costume. That, of course, doesn’t make it any less scary, but we all know this fact. While plenty of people are sceptical of the existence of ghosts, many do believe in them. If you’re that person, then the idea of walking through the site of one of history’s most notorious slayings should get you shivering. Not only can you walk the same footsteps that the killer walked, but you can sit in the very spot that the bodies lied.

The Lizzie Borden House is a bucket list item for fans of horror or those interested in the paranormal. Many people have had supernatural experiences at the Lizzie Borden House and the tour – a really excellent one by very knowledgeable guides – is very spooky. If you are REALLY brave or doubt the anecdotes of supernatural experiences, you can show off by spending the night and sleeping in Lizzie Borden’s bed (scare factor 8). People have up and left in the middle night because of mysterious bumps in the night and inexplicable sights.

So, if you are in a group and there is always that one “tough” guy saying how he isn’t scared at all and nothing scares him, throw down the gauntlet and ask him to spend the night.

The whole night.

Lizzy Borden House
92 2nd Street
Fall River, Massachusetts
(508) 675-7333

Website: lizzie-borden.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/Haunted-Lizzie-Borden-Tours
Every Saturday and Sunday at 12:30pm and 2:30pm
$15.00 per person, children under 12 only $10.00

SCARE FACTOR: 4 (tour) and 8 (overnight stay)

06. Fear Town Haunted House

Fear Town is a 45-minute ride through run-down buildings and haunted woods and has all sorts of monsters, creeps, and scares along the trail. The interactive theme is that some of these creeps will try to kidnap you and make you a permanent resident of the woods.

There is also a carnival “midway” where you can have some fun, play games, grab a bite to eat and even a selfie of the tears running down your face and perhaps something else running down your leg.

This is definitely not for kids and organizers explicitly state that it is not recommended for children under the age of 12. A glance at the reviews will demonstrate the popularity of the attraction and its effect on punters.

Fear Town Haunted House
Seekonk Speedway
1710 Fall River Avenue
Seekonk, MA 02771
Phone: (508) 296-0661
Email: Info@Fear-Town.com

Website: fear-town.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/FearTownHauntedHouse
Sept. 27-Nov.9
$15.00 per person, children under 12 only $10.00

SCARE FACTOR: 4 (tour) and 8 (overnight stay)

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For many people, the answer to “Which Holiday is your favorite?” is “Halloween!” What’s not to like about satisfying your sweet tooth, dressing up in your favorite monster, princess, or super hero, and running around the neighborhood role playing? For weeks before the special night, people spend hundreds, even thousands of dollars to turn their yards and homes into decorated celebrations of the holiday – fake cemeteries, grills with barbecued limbs and a menu, and even genuine attractions that you can walk through and get the wits scared out of you.

We carve pumpkins into a variety of scary or funny faces, head to costume parties, and of course, visit any mill building that has been turned into a haunted house. We actually pay people to try to get us to pee our pants! It’s a holiday that kids and adults alike enjoy participating in. While Hallow’s Eve is a night we dedicate to the kids, leading up to the special night there are a number of events that are just for adults…so we don’t feel left out. We like to have fun too!

One such event that should be a special treat for locals is Newport Vineyard’s 1st Annual Halloween CarnEvil which takes place on Friday, October 28th. The celebration will be the region’s premier costume party with a number of activities to keep everyone entertained: there will be a performing sideshow circus, Tarot reading, live music from The Silks, a cash bar serving cocktails, beer, and wine, a Creepy Cocktail Hour, prizes for the best costume.

Brothers John and Paul Nunes founded Newport Vineyard in 1995 and since then they have become the largest producer of estate grown wines in all of New England. They’ve done this by possessing a bonafide passion for producing top quality, world class vintages that people have simply fallen in love with. Both have decades of experience in the hospitality industry which has led to a lot of travel and a wealth of experience.

Originally planted on a hill in 1977 as a way to preserve a portion of agriculture from impending development, the concept was always to to go beyond the classic idea of what a vineyard was, but the core had to be the wine, so all the fundamentals had to be present. Aquidneck Island has always had a micro-climate conducive to growing grapes – rich, fertile soil combined with the warm waters of the Gulf Stream which are tempered by Narragansett bay, produce the conditions for a long, cool growing season. This, in turn, is responsible for developing the complex falvor profiles that people have grown to love.

They started with a determination to turn Newport Vineyards into an agritourism destination – a vineyard that breaks the traditional mold of what vineyards have done in the past. The old way was for a vineyard to be a private affairs that keeps the public at bay. With an agritourism destination the vineyard becomes a place that welcomes and wants the community to be a part of what they do. They want people to visit the vineyard and see the effort that goes into producing these quality wines. To see the faces of real people behind the label and the passion they have.

To do that an agriturismo will host special events, have activities, offer a farm stand or a number of other ways to turn locals into visitors. In the case of Newport Vineyards, they do and have these things and then some. Their outreach to the community also consists of two fantastic restaurants, Brix Restaurant and the Vineyard Cafe. They host a culinary program, offer catering, and host comedy shows, live music, yoga, wine & cheese classes and provide a stunningly gorgeous setting for a bridal shower, wedding, corporate event or other special occasion. 75 acres means there is ample space to contain all of the goings-on, activities, events and working vineyard.

The Nunes’ brothers and their team of seasoned and energetic hospitality professionals from across the region, are not a vineyard that stands aloof from the community, but they are a solid, important aspect of the community that deeply hopes that locals will visit and be a partake of. Over the years expansion into these other areas couldn’t be done without the resolve, experience and deep knowledge of people like Director of Marketing and Events, Cassandra Earle, winemaker with over 27 years of perfecting wine, George Chelf, F&B Director Trisha Greene, Executive Chef Andy Teixeira or the numerous hard working staff that are work studiously in the fields, providing superlative customer service, or a number of other jobs behind the scenes.

With Newport Vineyards you have the perfect storm of passion, knowledge and experience. A business that is based in agriculture, a respect and appreciation for the environment and is happily a committed part of the community it is positioned in. Newport Vineyard prides itself on marrying locally sourced food with estate-grown wines, servicing many of the needs of locals with their restaurants, produce, and venue for special occasions. The Halloween CarnEvil event is seen as an opportunity – one to meet those they work and live near, to demonstrate the product of their passion and to show what makes them special.

Prepare yourself for the inaugural event of what organizers hope to be a regular special annual event that you’ll visit time and again. Dress up as your favorite super hero or villain, princess or monster, prepare yourself to enjoy mouth-watering fare, live music, and circus performers and do it at one of the most gorgeous settings on the South Coast. It’ll be a night to let loose, make some new friends, and start what Newport Vineyards hopes will be the beginning of boo-utiful relationship.

Sound like a good time? Interested? Head to Newport Vineyards at 909 E. Main Rd in Middletown, Rhode Island on Friday, October 28th. The event takes place from 7:00pm–11:00pm. Cost for a ticket is $75 per person and includes complimentary food, one drink, live music from The Silks, tarot card readings and sideshow circus performers. Additional beer, wine and specialty cocktails available at cash bar.

Want to know more about the event or Newport Vineyards, the Brix Restaurant or Vineyard Cafe? All the contact information, social media accounts, and event page can be found below.

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Halloween CarnEvil! at Newport Vineyards
Phone: (401) 848-5161
Email: info@newportvineyards.com
Website: newportvineyards.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/NewportVineyards/

Facebook Event Page: facebook.com/events/1639345823062272/

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Here is a list of local Halloween themed events in the month of October. For outdoor events, it is a good idea to check the event organizer’s social media or call ahead when there is rain.

Want to get your event added? Contact leo@newbedfordguide.com. Check out our event calendar for more events added daily.

Almeidas Farm Presents: The Bloodfields
110 GAR Hwy Swansea, Massachusetts

WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN… and a chill can be felt in the air, that’s when it starts. You’ll see a split-second glimpse of them in your mirror, and that uneasy feeling will creep into your soul. You’ll realize that you’re not alone. The Bloodfields are hungry for more victims, and they’re coming for you next.

A terrifying hayride through the paralyzing darkness of the Almeida’s cornfield will have you questioning if you’re coming out alive. We dare you to come and see for yourself – let’s hope you survive.

Website: http://www.almeidasbloodfields.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebloodfields

The Factory of Terror

The Factory of Terror provides a fun, scary atmosphere in three locations; Fall River, West Warwick and Worcester. For details and opening times on each location visit: http://factoryofterror.com/

The Witches Orchard  – Clowns of the Corn – 7-10pm

The Witches Orchard is a haunted corn maze open every Friday and Saturday evening in October located in Halifax, Mass. Located in the back fields of Nessralla Farms. Off Rt 106 at the end of Hemlock Ln.

Website: https://thewitchesorchard.wordpress.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWitchesOrchard/

Field of Screams
The Dungeon of Doom, Cirque du Soul – 4 D haunted interactive maze, Dead River Haunted Hayride and Zombie Paint Ball!
179 Plain Meeting House Rd, West Greenwich, RI 02817
Hours of operation:
Thursday & Sunday: 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Friday & Saturday: 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm

Website: http://www.hauntedhayride.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FieldofScreamsWGRI

 OCTOBER 26

A Supernatural Evening with Jeff Belanger – 7-8:30pm
Fall River Public Library

Explore the unexplained with Jeff Belanger, one of the most visible and prolific paranormal researchers today. Jeff is the author of more than a dozen books on the supernatural and the Emmy-nominated host, writer, and producer of the PBS show New England Legends. Join him for an evening of true ghost stories, research, and evidence from around the world. There will be a Q & A session for the audience, and Jeff will have autographed books available for purchase. Details: https://www.newbedfordguide.com/event/a-supernatural-evening-with-jeff-belanger

October 27

Howl 7-10pm
Buttonwood Park Zoo – 425 Hawthorn St, New Bedford, Massachusetts 02740

The Buttonwood Park Zoological Society’s is excited to announce a new Halloween event called HOWL! This 21+ event will be held on Thursday, October 27th from 7-10 PM. It will be a night of mischief and mayhem at the Zoo. The evening will include live music in our Grooveyard by Johnny’s Basement, wicked cocktails located throughout the Zoo, twisted street performers, animal encounters and frightfully good food truck offerings. Don’t forget your costume!

Proceeds from HOWL will be used to support the Buttonwood Park Zoological Society in their efforts to enhance the Zoo’s animal care, education and conservation programs. Discounted tickets are available for ONLY $20 thru September 15, 2016!

Price: $25 Members, $30 Non-Members. This event is predicted to sell out. Purchase your tickets at https://www.bpzoo.org/howl/

OCTOBER 28

Monster Ball at the Omni Hotel – 7-10pm
Omni Providence Hotel – 1 W Exchange St, Providence, Rhode Island 02903

Get Weird with AIDS Care Ocean State and our Mistress of Ceremonies, Jacqueline DiMera! Join us at the Monster Ball at the Omni Hotel Sponsored by Yelp Providence, Friday, October, 28th at the beautiful Omni Providence Hotel from 7:00-10:00pm. A Special Treat (not trick) your $20 admission to the Monster Ball at the Omni Hotel will include your cover at BOTH THE DARK LADY! and The Colosseum Halloween After Parties*!!

Tickets are 20.00 and are available in advance or at the door.
21+ Live DJ, Dance Party, Free Food, Cash Bar and
$500 Cash Prize for Best Costume!

*clubs reserve the right to turn away any guests if they are at capacity.

Newport Vineyards Halloween CarnEvil – 7-11pm
Newport Vineyards – 909 E Main Rd, Middletown, Rhode Island 02842

Come one, come all to Newport Vineyards Halloween CarnEvil! The regions’s premier costume party with an evening full of sideshow, circus performing, tarot card reading craziness. Ticket includes Creepy Cocktail Hour with nosh food, (1) drink, tarot card readings and circus performers. Live music from THE SILKS and cash bar to follow. PRIZES for best costume! Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/newport-vineyards-halloween-carnevil-tickets-27446691794

Website: http://www.newportvineyards.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewportVineyards/

Friday, October 28 | 7:00pm – 11:00 pm
$75 per person includes complimentary nosh food, (1) drink, live music from THE SILKS, tarot card readings and performers. Additional beer, wine and specialty cocktails available at cash bar. 21+

Creepy Critters Night Hike – 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Just in time for Halloween! Wear your costumes and learn about some creepy favorites like owls, spiders, bats and snakes. Experiment with your senses and see if they are as good as these nocturnal critters, then head out on the nature trails to listen for some creatures of the night. The evening will finish with some hot apple cider and cookies while strolling among our creature of the night jack-o-lanterns. This hike is kid friendly so be sure to bring the entire family; dress for the weather and wear closed-toed shoes. Full details: https://www.newbedfordguide.com/event/creepy-critters-night-hike

OCTOBER 29

Halloween Movie Spookathon 
PARANORMAN: 1PM
BEETLEJUICE: 3PM
Forget the tricks, treat yourself this Halloween with a double-feature of two PG-rated seasonal favorites. Kicking off the Spookathon is ParaNorman, the animated tale about a misunderstood boy who takes on ghosts, zombies and grown-ups to save his town from a centuries-old curse, featuring the voices of Anna Kendrick and Casey Affleck. It’s followed by the classically creepy Beetlejuice, starring Michael Keaton as the titular “bio-exorcist” contracted by a recently deceased couple (played by Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis) in order to remove the obnoxious new owners of their house. Grip the armrest and get ready for a frightfully fun afternoon!

Pawtucket Public Library – Children’s Halloween Party – 2-3pm
(13 Summer St., Pawtucket, RI) – 725-3714. Family Halloween celebration with science educators performing “Dragons and Dreams” program. Costumes encouraged. 2-3 pm. Free.

Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde Silent Movie – 6:30pm
The Z’s famed Wurlitzer and organist Bernie Anderson, Jr. provide the spooky soundtrack to a great American horror film, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Anderson plays the suspenseful score as the silent movie unfolds on screen, telling the story of the benevolent Dr. Jekyll (John Barrymore) as he explores the other side of his personality with an enlightening concoction. Experience the classic story in a unique way and find out if Dr. Jekyll will be able to control his evil alter ego. Dun-dun-dunnn. General admission: $7.50: http://zeiterion.org/dr-jekyll-mr-hyde/

The Bar Love & Opium Halloween Costume Party

Rocky Horror Picture Show – Live Performance with RKO Army – 9:30pm
The revered Halloween tradition returns! The RKO Army provides a live shadowcast of The Rocky Horror Picture Show on stage as the tale of a young couple stranded at the bizarre residence of Dr. Frank-N-Furter unfolds on screen behind them. The 1975 movie starring Tim Curry and Susan Sarandon holds a unique place in film history, and this live iteration offers an unconventional interpretation for enthusiasts and first-timers alike. The cult classic comes to life, with heavy audience participation, R-rated for adults 18 years and older. TICKETS: $15 General Admission – http://zeiterion.org/rocky-horror-picture-show/

Want to get your event added? Contact leo@newbedfordguide.com. Check out our event calendar for more events added daily.

PAST EVENTS

OCTOBER 14

Boo at the Zoo – 6-9pm daily
Buttonwood Park Zoo – 425 Hawthorn St, New Bedford, Massachusetts 02740

Slightly spooky fun for the whole family!
October 14th – 16th
21st – 23rd, and 28th – 30th

Grab your favorite costume and join us at Boo at the Zoo for an evening of Halloween fun! There’s enough thrills and chills for all ages at Boo at the Zoo 2016! Climb aboard a spoooooky train ride, stroll down the trick or treat trail and take a spin through the jungle on our wild carousel. Come explore and discover in our hands-on Bone Zone, let loose at our Monster Mash Dance Yard and creep through the Barnyard Maze.

The North Woods Gift Store will have all your favorite Halloween items and enjoy tasty seasonal treats at the Bear’s Den Café! Boo at the Zoo – it’s slightly scary fun that cannot be missed! Save time getting into Boo at the Zoo by purchasing a Bat Pass. A Bat Pass is a single use, non-refundable pass and must be surrendered at the Boo entrance upon your visit. More: https://www.bpzoo.org/boo-at-the-zoo/

OCTOBER 20

Nightmare on Elmwood Drag Bingo – 6-9pm
Riviera Bingo – 1612 Elmwood Ave, Cranston, Rhode Island 02910

Calling all monsters, ghouls, goblins, witches, vamps, wolves and other creatures of the night! Are you ready for the 2nd and by far the most popular Drag Bingo Night of the season?! Join AIDS Care Ocean State on Thursday, October 20TH 2016 for our “Nightmare on Elmwood” Drag Bingo and Costume Contest.

Your regular hosts Haley Star & LaDiva will be out “trick-or-treating” that night but we’re very proud to announce our very special, returning guest host and ultimate mistress of the night- Miss Jacqueline DiMera! Full details: https://www.facebook.com/events/1003190993123269

OCTOBER 21

YMCA Dartmouth – Haunted Barn and Hayride – 6-9pm
276 Gulf Rd, South Dartmouth

Join us on Friday 10/21 and Saturday 10/22 for a night of spooky, family fun. The event includes a haunted house, spooky trail walk, hay rides and halloween-themed activites. Admission is $5 per child, $8 per adult or $20 for a family of four. All activities above are included with admission. Some special activites may cost extra. Popcorn, hot chocolate and other refreshments available for a fee as well. Details: https://www.facebook.com/events/1677399019254707/

OCTOBER 22

YMCA Dartmouth – Haunted Barn and Hayride – 6-9pm
276 Gulf Rd, South Dartmouth

Join us on Friday 10/21 and Saturday 10/22 for a night of spooky, family fun. The event includes a haunted house, spooky trail walk, hay rides and halloween-themed activites. Admission is $5 per child, $8 per adult or $20 for a family of four. All activities above are included with admission. Some special activites may cost extra. Popcorn, hot chocolate and other refreshments available for a fee as well. Details: https://www.facebook.com/events/1677399019254707/

The Whaling Blues Festival began in 1998 on Pier 3 as a showcase of modern, high-quality music with the city’s iconic waterfront backdrop. It lasted the next eight years and grew to hosting thousands of fans at Fort Taber until its last show in 2006.

The return of the New Bedford Whaling Blues Festival and its partnership with the Zeiterion Theater on Saturday was a homecoming for both the music festival and one of the city’s rising musical stars.

Quinn Sullivan stole the show on a hot and muggy afternoon at Fort Taber in front of a crowd of hundreds of festival-goers. The seventeen-year-old from New Bedford High School kept the crowd roaring with guitar solos that seemed would never end and a strong supporting band behind him.

Sullivan, who has been touring across Europe this summer with legendary blues musician and his earliest idol Buddy Guy, said he was happy to play in front of some familiar faces.

“It was so awesome coming home,” Sullivan said after signing autographs and taking photos with fans for over an hour. “It’s truly incredible to be here. You never expect anything until you walk on stage and see all those faces.”

During his encore, Sullivan played his original song “Buddy’s Blues,” an ode to his mentor who pulled him up on stage at the young age of eight while performing at the Zeiterion Theater.

“He’s shown me the world,” Sullivan said of Guy. “I owe everything to him.”

Other local artists took the stage during the festival, including G and Friends, Shipyard Wreck, The Craig DeMelo Band and The Neal McCarthy Problem.

Sharing the main stage with Sullivan were Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish, Jon Cleary and The Absolute Monster Gentlemen, Shemekia Copeland, and Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band.

Each band brought their own blues influences to the stage and got everyone up and grooving.

New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell was happy to see the festival return to the city after its ten-year hiatus and attract a wide variety of talent.

“This is one of the best public spaces anywhere in the northeastern United States and the quality of music is first rate,” said Mitchell. “There’s so much to love about it and that explains the huge crowd here.”

The crowd was singing and dancing along despite the heat, and many sought out the cool ocean breeze blowing across the peninsula. Dozens were also able to take in the show for free from the waters, where they enjoyed the rhythmic tunes from the comfort of their vessels.

Many fans took advantage of the views offered around the venue and walked around as they sampled some of the area’s food truck and restaurant offerings, including dNB Burgers, Fancheezical, Dorothy Cox and many others.

It has not yet been decided if the festival will return next year as an annual event, though it appears to be a welcome addition to the city’s summertime musical showcase.

All photographs by Josh Souza.

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Have you heard the name Quinn Sullivan? If you haven’t, he is likely the most famous person you’ve never heard of. If you have heard of him, you’re likely astounded that people haven’t.

Blues, pop and rock guitarist Quinn Sullivan was born and raised in New Bedford and has been playing guitar for 14 years and accompanied giants in the world of music . He has played onstage with B.B. King and even gigged at B.B. King’s own “B.B. Kings Blues Club” where he was allowed to play King’s famous “Lucille” guitar. He’s jammed with the likes of the Jimi Hendrix Experience, Eric Clapton, and the Foo Fighters. He was pulled on stage by Buddy Guy when Guy played at the Zeiterion Theater which led to an appearance on Buddy Guy’s Grammy-nominated album Skin Deep and a subsequent opening slot in Buddy Guy’s domestic tour.

He’s been featured on the Jimmy Kimmel show, Tonight Show with Jay Leno, the Ellen DeGeneres show, The Today Show, and Oprah Winfrey. He’s played at the Orpheum Theatre in Boston, the famed Madison Square Garden, and the mecca for genuine blues, Buddy Guy’s Legends. Festival? Lollapalooza, the Montreux Jazz Festival, the Austin City Limits Festival and the Crossroads Guitar Festival. He’s recorded three albums, Cyclone in 2011 and Getting There in 2013, and embarked on a tour to promote his most recently recorded album, Midnight Highway. He’s played to tens of thousands of packed, sold-out arenas.

Now, what if I told you that this experienced, talented veteran started doing these things at 3 years old – beginning with the beloved Toe Jam Puppet Band – and that he is now only 17 years of age? You’d be shocked, right? It’s not only true, but you can have the opportunity to enjoy his talent right here in our own backyard and Sullivan’s hometown, at the New Bedford Whaling Blues Festival on August 13th!

It’s easy to understand why Quinn found out so early what his life’s passion was: his parents were lovers of live music and festivals and brought Quinn along with them since he was an toddler. As soon as he was able to, they placed a guitar in his hands to make him really feel a part of the experience.

Because he was constantly listening to music at home and watching videos of performances, he came across what Buddy Guy was doing and became enamored and awed. When Buddy came to New Bedford to perform at the Zeiterion Theatre, Quinn’s dad did everything possible to make the two meet backstage and get an autograph on one of his son’s guitars. Buddy made a deal: that he would only do that if the 7 year old would come onstage and perform with him later in the evening!

The two have become fast friends ever since and the experience propelled Quinn’s aspirations to make a career out of writing music and performing. It has been his life’s mission for as long as he can remember.

His third album, Midnight Highway, recorded in Nashville’s famous Blackbird Studio is the most “Quinn” album to date. While he recorded the album with his regular backup band – guitarist Rob McNelley, Reese Wynans on keyboards, and bassist Michael Rhodes – he has had more creative input than he previously. In addition, he feels that he has matured not just in his playing and composing, but physically as well: he is post-pubescence so his voice has made its change and “settled” in. The tracks that he is most proud are “Lifting Off,” “Going,” “Eyes For You” and George Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.”

He is hoping that this album will be his breakout album and since he is no longer a child and now a young adult, one that will make people take him seriously. And if the release of the album doesn’t convince everyone, his third appearance at the Montreux Jazz Festival, and tour to promote the album, will display a work ethic that will make people take note – pardon the pun. Sullivan has dates across the country in New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and even Europe in places like Paris, Rotterdam and Zurich.

If you want to see why he has played in so many venues, with so many world talents, and skyrocketed to the top so fast, you will get your chance at the outdoor New Bedford Whaling Blues Festival presented by the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center, Saturday August 13 at the scenic Fort Taber Park from 11:45am-7:45pm.

The festival which began in 1998 by music enthusiast Sean Moriarty was created as a way to have something positive going on in the city. When over a thousand people showed up for the inaugural event in torrential rains, he knew that he was servicing the community and giving them something they wanted.

In spite of this and because life has its way of interfering, the festival disappeared and was thought to be a done deal. Now after ten years without an event, the New Bedford Whaling Blues festival has partnered with The Zeiterion to bring the event back bigger and better.

Many world famous and locally famous acts will showcase their talent. Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Jon Cleary and The Absolute Monster Gentlemen, Shemekia Copeland, Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish, Neal McCarthy, Shipyard Wreck, and Craig DeMelo and many more will make appearances. You won’t want to miss out on this event!

New Bedford Whaling Blues Festival Lineup

6:15-7:45: KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD BAND
5:50: THE NEAL MCCARTHY PROBLEM
4:30-5:50: SHEMEKIA COPELAND
4:05: THE CRAIG DEMELO BAND
2:50-4:05: JON CLEARY AND THE ABSOLUTE MONSTER GENTLEMEN
2:25: SHIPYARD WRECK
1:10-2:25: QUINN SULLIVAN
12:45: G AND FRIENDS
11:45-12:45: JOHNNY HOY AND THE BLUEFISH

Tickets for the New Bedford Whaling Blues Festival are $25 (senior/student), $55 (general) and $125 (VIP) and are available at both www.zeiterion.org and www.nbwhalingbluesfest.com, 508-994-2900 or at the Zeiterion box office, 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford. Box Office Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

If you would like more info on Quinn Sullivan”s tour visit his page dedicated to it. If you are interested in purchasing his music, you can do so at his store.

On the day of the event, the New Bedford Whaling Blues Festival Box Office is open on at 10:00am. Gates open at 10:45am. Festival attendees may bring blankets and low-backed beach chairs (under 30”). The designated seating area at the Fort Stage is on a first-come, first-served basis. The Local Stage is on the side of the Main Stage and general admission as well. Arrive early in order to set up camp for prime viewing, make friends with your neighbors and squeeze the most fun out of the day!

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Quinn Sullivan

New Bedford, MA
Website: quinnsullivanmusic.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/QuinnSullivanMusic/
Twitter: twitter.com/quinnsullivan1
Instagram: instagram.com/therealquinnsullivan

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Bishop Stang High School is pleased to announce the inauguration of the Hall of Honors! The Hall of Honors recognizes alumni, faculty, and friends who built an enduring legacy for the school through excellence in their careers, dedication to their communities, and service to Bishop Stang. The first induction to the Hall of Honors will take place on October 23, 2016.

The following are the 2016 inductees:

The Late Dr. Arthur Buckley – Dr. Buckley served as the General Chairman of the Campaign Committee, which founded Bishop Stang High School in 1959. The commitment and vision of Dr. Buckley inspired donors to make gifts based on the idea that building Bishop Stang would benefit the entire community. This idea and the funds raised are quite literally the foundation of our school.

Patrick and Lilian Carney & Family – Patrick Carney (Bishop Stang Class of 1966), emerged as a leader at Bishop Stang when he was still a young student by serving as President of the Student Council. Patrick and Lilian’s five children attended Bishop Stang over a 14 year period, from 1987 through 2001. The Carney Family’s unyielding commitment to Catholic Education has greatly impacted the growth and continued success of Bishop Stang High School for many years.

Kathy Crosson – Ms. Crosson has inspired generations of Bishop Stang students in the science lab for 38 years as Science Department Chair and teacher. As President/Founder of Missions for Humanity, she has dedicated her time to those in the world’s neediest communities. Her Missions for Humanity has provided opportunities for colleagues, students, alumni, parents, and local community members to take action and make the world a better place.

Theresa Dougall – Ms. Dougall’s (Bishop Stang Class of 1964) journey began as a student, and a few years after graduation, she returned to Bishop Stang and dedicated 44 years of distinguished service as a Teacher, Coach, Department Head, Principal and President. Her impact on generations of Spartans is immeasurable.

John C. O’Brien – John O’Brien started teaching and coaching at Bishop Stang in 1961 and served as Bishop Stang’s first Varsity Basketball Coach. Through his teaching, coaching, encouraging, guiding and caring for students, athletes and colleagues, until his death 24 years later, he sparked a positive energy at Bishop Stang. The tales of his spirit and love for the Bishop Stang family are legendary.

Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur – The mission of Bishop Stang High School is rooted in the charism of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. The Sisters were the foundational educators of the school. Their contribution of “making known God’s goodness” in all we do at Bishop Stang High School has certainly deemed them worthy of this honor.

For more information about the Hall of Honors, including tickets and sponsorhsips, please contact Jana McHenry, Director of Advancement, at jmchenry@bishopstang.org or 508-996- 5602 ext. 430.

Bishop Stang High School

Our Mission

Bishop Stang High School is a community rooted in, and dedicated to spreading the message of Jesus Christ as handed down through the teachings of the Catholic Church and the charism of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. A diocesan, co-educational, college preparatory school serving a diverse student population, we are called to holistically educate our students to be spiritually, academically, and socially prepared to meet the demands of higher learning and of life. Providing a disciplined yet nurturing atmosphere that combines academic excellence with Christian values, we educate our students to be people of integrity and global awareness who value a commitment to service.

To learn more about Bishop Stang High School, visit us at www.bishopstang.org , follow us on Twitter @BishopStangHS, and find us on Facebook at Bishop Stang High School.

Photo: Young Quinn Sullivan attending the Blues Festival

The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center proudly joins with the New Bedford Whaling Blues Festival to bring back this beloved, outdoor music festival to scenic Fort Taber Park overlooking Buzzards Bay and the Elizabeth Islands on Saturday, August 13 from 11:45am-7:45pm. The 2016 New Bedford Whaling Blues Festival features platinum selling axe-man Kenny Wayne Shephard, the “new Queen of the Blues” Shemekia Copeland, Grammy-winning New Orleans funk master Jon Cleary and The Absolute Monster Gentlemen, New Bedford’s blues-guitar wunderkind Quinn Sullivan and Martha’s Vineyard’s Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish. Tickets are $25 (senior/student), $55 (general) and $125 (VIP) and are available at both www.zeiterion.org and www.nbwhalingbluesfest.com, 508-994-2900 or at the Zeiterion box office, 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford.

The Whaling Blues Festival began in 1998 when a few friends decided they wanted present a day of high-quality music on the New Bedford waterfront. Festival founder, Sean Moriarty muses on the festival’s origin, “We created the blues festival in the late 90s because we wanted to do something positive for New Bedford. Our humble beginning on Pier 3 was almost washed away by nine inches of rain, but we knew we were on to something when over 1,200 people braved the elements and showed up with smiles and rain gear ready to hear great music and have a good time.”

The Festival continued for the next eight years and grew to host over 3,000 thousand music fans at beautiful Fort Taber Park , and hosted great blues artists like Susan Tedeschi, Grace Potter, Shemekia Copeland, GE Smith, Dicky Betts, Roomful of Blues and many others.

Now, after a decade hiatus, the New Bedford Whaling Blues festival has partnered with The Zeiterion to bring the event back bigger and better than ever at Fort Taber Park with a stellar line up of blues greats, including:

Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band: Kenny Wayne Shepherd is a Louisiana born guitarist and songsmith known for his genre-defining blues-infused rock n’ roll style, who has built an enviable resume as an accomplished recording artist and a riveting live performer. He has sold millions of albums worldwide, received five GRAMMY® nominations, two Billboard Music Awards, the Blues Foundation’s ‘Keeping The Blues Alive’ award and two Blues Music awards. Shepherd had seven #1 blues albums and a string of #1 mainstream rock singles.

Shemekia Copeland is an eight-time Blues Music Award winner, 2016 Best Blues Album Nominee and the headliner at this year’s Chicago Blues Festival. Her wide-open vision of contemporary blues, roots and soul music showcases the evolution of a passionate artist with a modern musical and lyrical approach. The Chicago Sun Times declared, “Shemekia’s a ball-of-fire vocalist with a voice that’s part Memphis, part Chicago…devastatingly powerful.”

Jon Cleary and The Absolute Monster Gentlemen were dubbed by Bonnie Raitt as the “9th wonder of the world.” Jon Cleary is a New Orleans funk master, tunesmith, keyboardist, guitarist, and vocalist. He does it all with his hard-driving, soulful brand of rock n’ roll and rhythm and blues. His latest album, GoGo Juice, won a 2016 GRAMMY® for Best Regional Roots Music Album, and bursts with the flavors of New Orleans’ rich music scene.

Quinn Sullivan is a New Bedford native and blues guitar prodigy who displayed such profound talent at an early age that he made his national debut on the Ellen DeGeneres show at the tender age of six. Two years later, he met his soon-to-be mentor Buddy Guy on-stage at The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center. Their “introduction” was a jam so magical that it has attracted over 5.5 million views on Youtube. After recording guitar tracks on Guy’s’ 2009 record Skin Deep, Quinn was rocketed into the stratosphere before his tenth birthday. He’s had the pleasure of jamming with legendary players like Eric Clapton, Derek Trucks, Los Lobos, and BB King at iconic venues like the Hollywood Bowl, Madison Square Garden, and Red Rocks.

Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish are Martha’s Vineyard legends who played the first note at the inaugural New Bedford Whaling Blues Fest in 1998! Theirs is a fiery brand of roadhouse blues, rock and roll, zydeco, and a lot of New Orleans-steeped voodoo. Called “a deep sea spawn of Slim Harpo and Howlin’ Wolf” by the Washington Post, Johnny’s soaring vocals, soulful harp and a killer band have made them a New England institution.

In addition to the main stage artists, The Festival also dedicates a stage to local talent. This year’s artists include Shipyard Wreck, Neal McCarthy and Craig DeMelo.

“The idea of bringing back the Festival has been stoked over the years by many fans who expressed how much they missed the event,” says Moriarty. Rosemary Gill, Executive Director of The Z adds “It’s a natural fit to partner with Sean to produce the Blues Festival. We have expanded our programming beyond the 57 mainstage performances, school-time performances and Creative Classroom Series. This summer, I’m thrilled to say we’re bringing programs outside our walls to produce three festivals, including Viva Portugal, The New Bedford Folk Festival, and the New Bedford Whaling Blues Festival.”

Moriarty concludes, “It’s going to be a very cool day of hot Blues overlooking Buzzards Bay and the Islands. I can’t think of a better way to spend a Saturday in August.”

Tickets for the New Bedford Whaling Blues Festival range from $25-$125 and are available for purchase at www.zeiterion.org, by calling 508-994-2900, or in person at the box office at 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford, MA. Box Office Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center proudly joins with the New Bedford Whaling Blues Festival to bring back this beloved, outdoor music festival to scenic Fort Taber Park overlooking Buzzards Bay and the Elizabeth Islands on Saturday, August 13 from 11:45am-7:45pm. The 2016 New Bedford Whaling Blues Festival features platinum selling axe-man Kenny Wayne Shephard, the “new Queen of the Blues” Shemekia Copeland, Grammy-winning New Orleans funk master Jon Cleary and The Absolute Monster Gentlemen, New Bedford’s blues-guitar wunderkind Quinn Sullivan and Martha’s Vineyard’s Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish. Tickets are $25 (senior/student), $55 (general) and $125 (VIP) and are available at both www.zeiterion.org and www.nbwhalingbluesfest.com, 508-994-2900 or at the Zeiterion box office, 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford.

The Whaling Blues Festival began in 1998 when a few friends decided they wanted present a day of high-quality music on the New Bedford waterfront. Festival founder, Sean Moriarty muses on the festival’s origin, “We created the blues festival in the late 90s because we wanted to do something positive for New Bedford. Our humble beginning on Pier 3 was almost washed away by nine inches of rain, but we knew we were on to something when over 1,200 people braved the elements and showed up with smiles and rain gear ready to hear great music and have a good time.”

The Festival continued for the next eight years and grew to host over 3,000 thousand music fans at beautiful Fort Taber Park , and hosted great blues artists like Susan Tedeschi, Grace Potter, Shemekia Copeland, GE Smith, Dicky Betts, Roomful of Blues and many others.

Now, after a decade hiatus, the New Bedford Whaling Blues festival has partnered with The Zeiterion to bring the event back bigger and better than ever at Fort Taber Park with a stellar line up of blues greats, including:

Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band: Kenny Wayne Shepherd is a Louisiana born guitarist and songsmith known for his genre-defining blues-infused rock n’ roll style, who has built an enviable resume as an accomplished recording artist and a riveting live performer. He has sold millions of albums worldwide, received five GRAMMY® nominations, two Billboard Music Awards, the Blues Foundation’s ‘Keeping The Blues Alive’ award and two Blues Music awards. Shepherd had seven #1 blues albums and a string of #1 mainstream rock singles.

Shemekia Copeland is an eight-time Blues Music Award winner, 2016 Best Blues Album Nominee and the headliner at this year’s Chicago Blues Festival. Her wide-open vision of contemporary blues, roots and soul music showcases the evolution of a passionate artist with a modern musical and lyrical approach. The Chicago Sun Times declared, “Shemekia’s a ball-of-fire vocalist with a voice that’s part Memphis, part Chicago…devastatingly powerful.”

Jon Cleary and The Absolute Monster Gentlemen were dubbed by Bonnie Raitt as the “9th wonder of the world.” Jon Cleary is a New Orleans funk master, tunesmith, keyboardist, guitarist, and vocalist. He does it all with his hard-driving, soulful brand of rock n’ roll and rhythm and blues. His latest album, GoGo Juice, won a 2016 GRAMMY® for Best Regional Roots Music Album, and bursts with the flavors of New Orleans’ rich music scene.

Quinn Sullivan is a New Bedford native and blues guitar prodigy who displayed such profound talent at an early age that he made his national debut on the Ellen DeGeneres show at the tender age of six. Two years later, he met his soon-to-be mentor Buddy Guy on-stage at The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center. Their “introduction” was a jam so magical that it has attracted over 5.5 million views on Youtube. After recording guitar tracks on Guy’s’ 2009 record Skin Deep, Quinn was rocketed into the stratosphere before his tenth birthday. He’s had the pleasure of jamming with legendary players like Eric Clapton, Derek Trucks, Los Lobos, and BB King at iconic venues like the Hollywood Bowl, Madison Square Garden, and Red Rocks.

Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish are Martha’s Vineyard legends who played the first note at the inaugural New Bedford Whaling Blues Fest in 1998! Theirs is a fiery brand of roadhouse blues, rock and roll, zydeco, and a lot of New Orleans-steeped voodoo. Called “a deep sea spawn of Slim Harpo and Howlin’ Wolf” by the Washington Post, Johnny’s soaring vocals, soulful harp and a killer band have made them a New England institution.

In addition to the main stage artists, The Festival also dedicates a stage to local talent. This year’s artists include Shipyard Wreck, Neal McCarthy and Craig DeMelo.

“The idea of bringing back the Festival has been stoked over the years by many fans who expressed how much they missed the event,” says Moriarty. Rosemary Gill, Executive Director of The Z adds “It’s a natural fit to partner with Sean to produce the Blues Festival. We have expanded our programming beyond the 57 mainstage performances, school-time performances and Creative Classroom Series. This summer, I’m thrilled to say we’re bringing programs outside our walls to produce three festivals, including Viva Portugal, The New Bedford Folk Festival, and the New Bedford Whaling Blues Festival.”

Moriarty concludes, “It’s going to be a very cool day of hot Blues overlooking Buzzards Bay and the Islands. I can’t think of a better way to spend a Saturday in August.”

Tickets for the New Bedford Whaling Blues Festival range from $25-$125 and are available for purchase at www.zeiterion.org, by calling 508-994-2900, or in person at the box office at 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford, MA. Box Office Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Guitarist John Stein and his Quintet return to the Wamsutta Club in downtown New Bedford on Friday night, March 18, at 8 pm. The concert is presented by Whaling City Sound and proceeds benefit the YWCA of Southeastern Mass.

Mr. Stein has performed many times in New Bedford, previously at the Wamsutta and more recently with a duo at Cork. This concert is the introduction of new material and a new band, in preparation for recording a CD the next day at PBS Studio in Westwood, MA. He has 8 CDs to date as a leader or co-leader on SouthCoast-based jazz label Whaling City Sound (WCS). Known as a tasteful and swinging guitarist, composer and arranger, Stein has assembled an international band for this performance.

The formula John has used for previous CDs, that is – perform in New Bedford and then go immediately into the studio with the same band, has resulted in CDs that have been both masterful and recognized as among the best music out there. His 2010 release, Raisin’ the Roof, made it to #2 on the Jazzweek national radio chart, stayed in the top ten for 8 weeks and was the #8 jazz CD for the year (2010) in radio play on jazz stations through the United States. John’s subsequent concert celebrating only in the packed Wamsutta.

Drummer and percussion virtuoso Ze Eduardo Nazario has once again flown in specifically for this performance and recording, from Sao Paolo, Brazil, to propel and accent the music from behind the drum set. Ze is a treat to have in the band; his contagious enthusiasm is matched only by his effortless technique and thoughtful appropriateness, and the audience delights in his presence.

Bassist John Lockwood is a mainstay in Mr. Stein’s recent bands, and is the first choice for many other Beantown jazz group leaders. He provides a rock-solid presence that is always both powerful and natural. Several of the rave reviews of John Stein’s recent Whaling City Sound CDs mentioned that with John Lockwood on the date, the level of the music increases up several notches.

Rounding out the quintet are two mainstays of the Boston jazz elite: trumpeter Phil Grenadier and flutist Fernando Brandao. Originally from Brazil, Brandao is an Associate Professor of Music at Berklee College in Boston, an expert on many styles of Brazilian music, and has recorded and performed with a long list of notables, including saxophonists Bill Pierce and George Garzone, to name just a few.

Trumpeter Grenadier’s sound maintains a sensitive emotional edge which that avoids the harshness and blare of many others on the instrument. He knows how to blend in, and his solos are consistently beautifully conceived and crafted. Grenadier can be heard on over 50 CDs, including an earlier Whaling City Sound release, “A New Leaf” by pianist/composer Ramona Borthwick. He has worked with George Garzone, Kenny Barron and Larry Goldings, among many others.

With these four stars behind him as a foundation, Stein gets to strut his contemplative, clean and playful guitar sound. Like Lockwood and Brandao, Stein is an Associate Professor at Berklee College of Music in Boston. John’s choice of material, which run from the American Songbook to jazz standards to many of his own compositions, allow his musical pals to both relax and stretch, and he knows how to make an audience feel good.

The Wamsutta is an outstanding place to enjoy acoustic jazz. The musicians are energized by an audience that listens and responds. A limited food menu will be available, as well as a cash bar.

The Wamsutta Club, at 427 County Street, corner of Union Street, in downtown New Bedford, has plenty of on-site, easy-in/easy-out parking and is handicap accessible. Founded in 1911 and celebrating 100 years, YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts is a women’s membership movement whose mission is to eliminate racism and empower women. YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts serves an area that stretches from the Rhode Island state line east to Provincetown, south to the Islands and north to Attleboro, Brockton and Plymouth. YWCA helps women, girls and their families attain self-sufficiency by providing services to support the vast needs of people from numerous populations. While the special concerns of women provide the impetus for YWCA services, many programs are open to everyone. YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts programs and services are identified in five areas: Advocacy, Adult Services, Wellness for Women and Girls, Residential Services and Youth Services.

Tickets are $20.00 in advance and $25.00 at the door. You are advised to purchase tickets early, as seating is limited and the event may sellout. Tickets are available at the YWCA, 20 South Sixth Street, New Bedford, MA 02740, (508) 999-3255, www.ywcasema.org; from Whaling City Sound (508) 992-6613, www.whalingcitysound.com; or at the Wamsutta Club, (508) 997-7431, www.wamsuttaclub.net.

Directions are available at www.wamsuttaclub.net, or www.whalingcitysound.com.