Children’s Concert Series Opener Rocks in the Summer Sunshine

EVERYBODY WAS right. The weather here really does become magnificent on July 1. I really can’t remember – or imagine – more perfect weather than we’ve had in the past couple days.

Those of you with kids were right about another thing. The kid’s concerts at downtown -- part of the volunteer-organized -- really is fabulous.

But you probably know that. Judging from the size of the crowd at this, the first week’s show of the summer, most of the kids in Kirkland were there. OK, that may be an exaggeration. But there were a lot of us there. What a fantastic, free event!

We’d heard a lot about it. It was part of the sales pitch from a Kirkland mom-friend before we moved here last year from the Midwest, and part of an impromptu orientation by one of our wonderful neighbors when we did. Throughout the year, the buzz grew. I added it as a recurring Outlook appointment and was reminded of the start date Monday when volunteers announced the start of the concert series during the .

In spite of all that, we got there a little late (of course). But, we managed to snag a great spot at the top of the hill. Even with a pretty packed crowd, there really wasn’t a bad seat in the house, at least when the crowd doesn’t crest the hill.

We parked our stroller behind us where we wouldn’t block anyone’s view (we were the back row), spread a picnic blanket, did some final suntan lotion touch-ups, strapped on the sun hats and broke out our morning picnic.

The show was fantastic. I must admit, I was worried about it at first. I’d sold my preschooler on the idea of going to a concert and she was excited to see a band and singers. Clearly, I hadn’t done my homework. This first show was a fascinating, entertaining and surprisingly educational juggling act.

This show featured Rhys Thomas, a talented juggler and entertainer. Not only did this world-class act wow the crowd with all kinds of juggling feats, he taught us about the physics involved – while keeping the crowd entertained with silly antics and fun visuals for the kids, and subtle parent humor for the rest of us.

We all enjoyed it. Even my 1-year-old was enthralled by the sounds, sights and clapping. We can’t wait for more. Luckily, we’ve got plenty more ahead of us.

Here’s what the event organizers have lined up for the rest of the summer.

Children’s Concerts – Tuesdays 10-11 a.m.

• July 12 – Cowboy Buck and Elizabeth: High-energy interactive musical comedy, dance, sing-along, and ventriloquism. 
• July 19 – Caspar Babypants: Northwest favorite will rock your pants off, baby!
• July 26 – Johnny Bregar: Rootsy, jazzy, bluesy music for kids and adults.
• Aug. 2 – Recess Monkey: These teachers know how to rock.
• Aug. 9 – The Not-It's: Don't forget your tutu!
• Aug. 16 – Eric Ode: Award-winning children's singer/songwriter.
• Aug. 23 – Let Your Music Shine: Come along on a Singin' Safari!

The children’s concert has us excited for the evening series as well. Starting this week, the evening concerts take place on Thursday from 7-9 p.m.

Here’s what’s in store:

• July 7 – Ruby Dee and the Snakehandlers: Rockabilly, Roots, and Country all the way from Austin, Texas.
• July 14 – The Freckles Brown Band: Classic rock and originals.
• July 21 – Star Anna and the Laughing Dogs: Original alt-rock and folk.
• July 28 – Mud Junket: Blues Rock featuring Kirkland resident Eve Maler.
• Aug. 4 - Garth Reeves:Roots Rock.
• Aug. 11 – Soul Purpose: 11-piece soul & classic rock. 
• Aug. 18 – Handful of Luvin': Back by popular demand, the original light rock with virtuoso electric violinist.
• Aug. 25 – Clinton Fearon and the Boogie Brown Band: Roots reggae from the best reggae band this side of Jamaica.

I am so impressed to learn that both Kirkland Summer Concert Series’ are organized by volunteers and funded by local businesses and individuals. I’ve done event planning professionally and I know how much time and dedication it involves. Thank you to everyone that makes these events possible.

If this first show was any indication, these events truly are a tremendous opportunity for residents – and a true selling point for this community. For more information about the concerts or how to get involved, go to www.kirklandsummerconcerts.org or “like” “Kirkland Summer Concerts at Marina Park” on Facebook.

Happy summer and I look forward to seeing you at an upcoming concert.