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STEUBENVILLE -- The Summer Concert Series is back.
Beginning May 31 and continuing each Thursday through July, Historic Fort Steuben will serve as the backdrop to concerts under the stars at the Berkman Amphitheater -- kicking off with a pair of oldies bands and fan favorites, The Stereos and The Vogues.
Director Paul Zuros figures the 2021 Summer Concert Series looks to be memorable.
"We are excited ... absolutely thrilled to pieces to be able to do this again," Zuros said. "I think everybody is so anxious to get out and do more things, to enjoy beautiful weather and listen to some great bands. This season, in particular, will be especially exciting because everybody's been cooped up for so long."
Zuros said the concert series, now in its 15th year, has drawn some pretty exciting acts over the years, "and in 2021 we hope our visitors are just as excited about the lineup as we are."
"We have such a great location down at the fort. Everybody can be outside and spread out," Zuros said, "so I feel very confident we can have these events safely."
He said they're asking concert-goers to "follow health and safety protocols like mask wearing and social distancing when they come down to the events."
Those attending should bring blankets or lawn chairs and spread out.
Zuros said they try to put together a concert schedule with broad appeal, working with Rick and Deb Witkowski of Studio L and Earl Tuttle of Ohio Valley Audio to select acts.
"We really feel the concerts are a gift to the community: The concerts are free. We do pass the bucket because it takes about $25,000 to make the concert season successful, but we don't really look at it as a financial thing."
He said they know they've struck the right note, saying, "If we have people who really enjoy them, if we can see the joy on peoples' faces and know they enjoy coming out and having a good time at the fort. It makes it all worth it."
"We are so grateful for our sponsors who have helped make the 2021 Season possible and the many audience members who faithfully donate each week when the bucket is passed," he said.
The Kessler Family continues as the major sponsor.
The 2021 concert schedule is:
∫ May 31: The Stereos; The Vogues
∫ June 3: East Street; The FANTASY'S
∫ June 10: Vince Villanova Big Band
∫ June 17: Blue Lunch
∫ June 24: Beatlemania Magic: Experience the Beatles
∫ July 1: The Fossils; Ron Retzer Trio
∫ July 4: Roz & Lynn; Spinning Jenny
∫ July 8: Silver Springs: Fleetwood Mac Experience; Eli & the Mojo Kings
∫ July 15: Faire May; The Joseph Sisters
∫ July 22: House of Soul
∫ July 29: The Marcels