BY SANTI GABINO JR.
Get ready to groove, and rock and roll, as the Athens Theatre in DeLand presents a musical extravaganza like no other! From the soulful rhythms of Motown, to the timeless tunes of Elvis Presley, and the ethereal melodies of Fleetwood Mac, mark your calendars for a week of unforgettable performances during the last week of March.
Start the week with a bang and cat ch the Memphis Motown Soul Experience at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 27. Next up, witness the return of The King of Rock ’n’ Roll at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. Friday, March 29, with Ted Torres Martin’s “Elvis, The Show: Greatest Hits and More!” Finally, rounding off the week is Fleetwood Gold: The Fleetwood Mac Experience at 4 p.m and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 30.
While many people associate Motown solely with the city of Detroit, the fact is that the label’s reach extended far beyond the Motor City. In the 1960s, the soulful sound of Motown artists like Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, the Staple Singers, Smokey Robinson, The Miracles and Marvin Gaye was being played live and on the radio all across the country.
What made Memphis such a hotbed for Motown music? Part of it was undoubtedly the city’s rich musical history. Memphis has long been known as a place where blues, gospel, soul and rock ’n’ roll collide, and that unique sonic blend served as the perfect backdrop for Motown’s tunes.
On March 27, you can relive the sound, feel and energy of the Motown era when the Memphis Motown Soul Experience takes the stage! Performing renditions of classic Motown hits and Memphis soul classics from the 1960s and 1970s, the 10-piece band pays homage to the music of the Motown era.
Fans can expect to hear such hits as “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “I Want You Back” and “My Girl,” along with many, many more!
On March 29, the Athens welcomes the music of The King! Watch in amazement as Ted Torres Martin takes center stage with his “Elvis, The Show: Greatest Hits and More!”
PHOTO COURTESY TED TORRES MARTIN
Martin, a world-renowned Elvis impersonator, is recognized by Elvis Presley Enterprises as the top Elvis vocal stylist! When one recalls legends of the 20th century, there are few who were as impactful as Elvis Presley. Selling more than 1 billion records and starring in 31 movies, his influence on music and entertainment remains unparalleled.
Martin’s commitment to authenticity has earned him the respect and love of Elvis fans all over the world. His spectacular show is not only a stunning tribute to Presley’s musical legacy but also keeps Elvis’ memory alive for all to enjoy! Get ready to be serenaded with classics like “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” “Hound Dog,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “Love Me Tender” and more!
Finishing off this stellar lineup March 30 is Fleetwood Gold: The Fleetwood Mac Experience, a tribute to the iconic band whose influence spans nearly six decades.
PHOTO COURTESY FLEETWOOD GOLD
Originating amid the “British Blues” craze of the late 1960s, Fleetwood Mac evolved through various lineup changes, including the addition of Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham in the mid-1970s, whose infusion of pop propelled the band to new heights. With albums like Rumours selling more than 45 million copies, their legacy is undeniable.
Fleetwood Gold’s Seven Wonders Tour celebrates this iconic era with high-energy performances of Fleetwood Mac classics, promising audiences an unforgettable experience with beloved songs like “Go Your Own Way,” “Dreams” and “Everywhere.”
Make sure to mark your calendars and secure your tickets for these unforgettable performances that promise to sweep you off your feet and leave you humming your favorite tunes for weeks to come!
The Athens Theatre is at 124 N. Florida Ave. in Downtown DeLand.
Tickets and more information can be found at www.athensdeland.com, or by calling the box office at 386-736-1500. Box-office hours are 1-5 p.m. Tuesday- Saturday, and one-and-a-half hours before live performances.
