MONROE — Take an upbeat, musical journey of America’s spirit and greatest songs of the 1960s and 70s at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 3 at Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th Street. “Those Were the Days” starring William Florian, former lead singer of the iconic band The New Christy Minstrels, will intertwine stories with the music of Peter, Paul, and Mary; John Denver; The Mamas and the Papas; Pete Seeger; and many others. 

William’s love of music started when he received his first guitar after seeing the Beatles appearance on “The Ed Sullivan Show.” But his musical career was almost a non-starter. His seventh-grade math teacher once told his mother to “take his guitar away until his grades improved.” Fortunately, his mother did not take that advice.

Florian went on to perform, write and record rock ‘n roll throughout his time in high school, which resulted in a local hit record with his band, Burnt Suite. After graduating, Florian and his sister, Nanette, formed a music duo, left their home in Connecticut, and went on a tour across the U.S. In the mid-1970s while visiting Los Angles, they met the famous New Christy Minstrels vocal group. 

William and Nanette were invited to join them and go on tour. Later on, Florian was honored to be a lead singer in concerts on NCM’s biggest hit song, “Today.” Bass player Greg Sutherland is joining Florian on stage on this concert tour.

Reserved seat tickets for “Those Were the Days” starring William Florian may be purchased by calling the Monroe Arts Center at 608-325-5700 or 888-596-1249 or in person at the box office, 1315 11th Street, or online at www.monroeartscenter.com.