MONROE — Brian FitzGerald and Marty McCormack of the Irish-Americana duo Switchback return to the Monroe Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 17, but this time with their holiday performance “A Midwestern Christmas.” Monroe Arts Center is located at 1315 11th Street, Monroe, Wisconsin.
Switchback’s holiday concerts have lots of audience involvement and singing along with the band on well-known favorites such as “Away in the Manger” and “White Christmas.” Interspersed with their signature Irish reels and jigs to original tunes, the show is also filled with stories of their travels along with a dose of humor.
This award-winning duo draws on traditional Celtic music and original Americana songs that reflect their Irish heritage and Midwestern roots.
Playing an exciting mix of mandolin, guitar and bass, Switchback’s harmonies have won them comparisons to famous duos, such as the Louvin Brothers, Everly Brothers, and Simon and Garfunkel. Their voices blend in heart-tugging harmony and they can make more music with a few instruments, than those of some six-piece bands.
Switchback has created over 15 albums to date, three PBS specials and concert DVDs, music on NBC and appearances with the Moody Blues, Jethro Burns, Clifton Chenier, John Hartford, Leon Russell, Dale Watson, the Chieftains, Liz Carol, Martin Hayes and many others. Switchback has earned a place among musical legends.
The same evening from 6 to 7:30 p.m. the public can stop and browse the hundreds of items on display for bidding at MAC’s Holiday Silent Auction. This important fundraiser for MAC features hundreds of items donated by individuals and businesses from Monroe and the surrounding area.
For the convenience of shoppers, a listing the items by category is provided. This year’s auction categories are: Original Art and Handcrafted Items; Holiday-Themed Items; Books; Home and Garden; Clothing and Jewelry; Health and Beauty; Toys, Sports, and Recreation; Theater, Entertainment, and Getaways; Restaurant and Specialty Dinners; Baked Goods and Specialty Foods; and This and That. The auction will end at 1:45 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15.
Reserved seat tickets for “Switchback-A Midwestern Christmas” may be purchased by calling the Monroe Arts Center at 608-325-5700 or 888-596-1249, or in person at the box office located at 1315 11th Street, or online at www.monroeartscenter.com.
