Independence Day week is one of the biggest entertainment celebrations in The Villages and this year’s music shows are hotter than July.
The list of performers include: the all-star “Bands of the Villages;” Larry Rivellese, fresh off his appearance with Steve Harvey on NBC-TV, with the Evolution Dance Company.
Also, in the Town Squares on Fourth of July: Johnny Wild and the Delights, Lake Sumter Landing; Scooter the DJ, Paddock Square and Blue Stone Circle at Spanish Springs.
Jean Butler, Ward Green, and Hugh Wicks from the Villages Concert, New Horizon, and Home Town bands will share conducting roles for “A Patriotic Spectacular,” Monday, July 3, at 3 and 7 p.m. in Savannah Center.
This annual musical extravaganza is already sold out and will feature such patriotic songs as “America the Beautiful,” “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “This Is My Country” and a salute to the Armed Forces.
Evolution Dance, led by artistic director Diane Vargas, will put on its annual patriotic combination of music, dance and stories – and this year features a special guest: Larry Rivellese.
“Flags, Freedom and Fireworks” and will be presented Saturday, July 1, at 4 and 7 p.m. in Savannah Center. Rivellese, who appeared with Steve
Harvey on NBC-TV’s “Forever Young,” will sing the National Anthem before each show. It is Rivellese’s first performance in The Villages since the network show aired last week.
Evolution Dance company of about 25 dancers will cover American music and history from the “Yankee Doodle Dandy” to “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” to “Goodnight Saigon.” There will be special tributes to Vietnam Veterans and also Women Veterans.
Town Squares
The Town Squares are always jumping on Fourth of July.
Johnny Wild and the Delights, featuring lead singer Andy Matchett, plays from 5 until 9 p.m. at Lake Sumter. The group has become immensely popular here playing the music of Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison and, of course, the King himself – Mr. Presley.
Scooter the DJ is also a popular attraction and the zany music man will pull out his many hats and songs at Paddock Square.
Blue Stone Circle is a high-energy, Orlando party band that knows how to rock and will be doing just that at Spanish Springs Town Square.
Also, each Town Square will feature: The Villages Cheerleaders, The Villages Twirlers & Drum Corps with the Aloha ‘O Ka Hula Dance Troupe, and The Prime Time Twirlers.
The Patriotic Stilt Walkers will appear at all three Squares