MONROE — Main Street Monroe has the perfect summer playlist ready with new bands, new sounds and plenty of old-fashioned family fun for the 2019 Concerts on the Square season.
The season begins on Friday, May 31, with a step back in time to the 1950s and the era when rock-n-roll legends like Buddy Holly, Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis topped the charts. The Johnny Rogers Band tosses in some early roots rock classics from Johnny Cash and goes on to bring the story together up through the Beatles and Billy Joel. Rogers is a talented impersonator who will draw in the crowd with his showmanship. The band was recommended by concert regulars LeRoy and Kathy Rindy.
FBI and the Untouchable Horns will blow it through the top with their powerhouse horns and an outstanding rhythm section on Friday, June 21. The band plays a cross section of hits spanning from Earth Wind and Fire, Chicago, Doobie Brothers, Stevie Wonder and Journey; to Huey Lewis, Maroon 5 and Bruno Mars. Bonus: “Echoes of Camp Randall” at intermission — with members of the UW Band bringing the fifth quarter right here to downtown Monroe. Show your Monroe and Wisconsin pride by wearing red and white or Badger gear.
Back by popular demand, the band Reloaded that was rained out and nearly blown off the Square in 2018. They’ll be playing all the classics you know and love for their show on Friday, July 12. Main Street Monroe welcomes “Paws on Parade” at intermission. Hearts will be happy and tails will be wagging when the Green County Humane Society hosts a costume contest and parade for all pets, and the people who love them. Go to the website greencountyhumane.org for details on how to enter. Also at the July 12 show: a salute to the ‘80s and a special shout-out to the Monroe High School Class of 1984, which will be hosting its reunion that night.
Water Street Jacks brings their own brand of Americana and folk rock to the Square on Thursday, July 25. Four-part harmonies, a blend of unique covers plus original tunes, and there’s even a mandolin in the band. Main Street Monroe is also pleased to be co-hosting a special “Lighting Up the Dark” event in conjunction with Jacob’s Swag celebrating the efforts of the organizations, businesses and agencies working tirelessly to support those in our community with mental health needs. There will be informational booths and resources, plus a bounce house and fun for children.
Fletcher Rockwell showcases classic Americana and Nashville-tinged roots and country on Aug. 16. The band plays original songs, and is also revered for clever versions of the most popular covers, spanning everything from vintage Tom Petty and Paul Simon & Talking Heads to contemporary Chris Stapleton and Mumford & Sons. This band is going places. Thank you to Tim Davis for the recommendation.
Main Street Monroe will present “Musical Chairs for Chair-ity” at intermission.
The “Best Seat in the House” contest also returns due to its popularity. At each show throughout the season, the contest winner is invited to bring a friend to enjoy the show from the vantage point of a pair of comfortable chairs, along with pizza from Suisse Haus, popcorn from Rainbow Confections, drink tickets and fun swag from Main Street Monroe, Heartland Graphics and Green County Cheese Days. Sign up to win at Heartland Graphics.
Main Street Monroe’s popular summer concert series is underwritten by Colony Brands. Proceeds from the Beer and Wine Garden will be shared by Main Street Monroe, Green Haven and Green County Child Advocacy Center. Food booths will be available, and concert goers are also invited to patronize downtown restaurants before the show or to bring in “to go” orders to eat while watching the show. Carry-ins not allowed for alcoholic beverages.
For more information or to get involved, go to mainstreetmonroe.org or contact Jordan Nordby, Main Street Director, at 608-328-4023.