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Love and unity are the messages that resonate with The English Beat fans who will rock out to the sounds of Save it For Later, I Confess, Cant Get Used to Losing You, Mirror in the Bathroom, Hands off Shes Mine and many other hits at The Ridgefield Playhouse on Wednesday, June 18, at 8 p.m. Their signature crossover brand of ska, reggae, pop and punk has been covered by everyone from The Who to Pearl Jam. The English Beat has shared international stages with David Bowie, The Police, REM, The Clash, The Talking Heads and many others. Special guest is The Screw Ups from Newtown, CT. Fifty Coins (426 Main St., Ridgefield) is offering 10% off the dinner bill the night of this event when tickets/stubs are presented. An AllShows.com VIP Party Pass ($25 addt'l per person), which includes a pre-show cocktail party 6:30 7:15 p.m. with open bar, hors-doeuvre and priority parking, is available for this show by calling the box office (203-438-5795). This event is part of the Xfinity Rock Series.
By SUSAN DUMONT BENGSTONFormed in the late 70s, The English Beat hailed from industrial Birmingham, England, at a time of social, political and musical upheaval. Trying to create calm through their music, The English Beat delivered their simple message of love and unity set to an irresistible dance beat and became an overnight sensation. One of the most influential bands of the British Two Tone Ska movement, The Beat is all about inclusion, rather than exclusion.
Consummate showman singer/songwriter Dave Wakeling (lead vocals and guitar), who co-founded The English Beat, continues to share his pioneering blend of ska and punk with audiences all over the world. Just one listen to his singing harkens back to the 80s sound, and everyone in the house starts dancing! Joining Dave in the current touring lineup are Rhythmm Epkins (drums/vocals), Antonee First Class (toaster), Matt Morrish (sax/vocals), Kevin Lum (keys/vocals) and Larry Young (bass/vocals).
For tickets ($40), call the box office (203) 438-5795, or order online at ridgefieldplayhouse.org. The Ridgefield Playhouse is a not-for-profit performing arts center located at 80 East Ridge, parallel to Main Street, Ridgefield,
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