Deb Bouchoux of Great Falls (left) and her husband, Don Bouchoux (far right) with granddaughter Kate Burnette, 3, daughter Liz Burnette, grandson Benjamin Burnette, 5, and son-in-law Dan Burnette at the season’s opening night for Concerts on the Green in Great Falls. Photo by Mercia Hobson.
Concerts on the Green returned to the Gazebo at the Great Falls Village Centre Sunday evening, Aug. 30, keeping the spirit that defines the community alive. "A huge thank you to Celebrate Great Falls for bringing our community back together," said Missy Perkins of Great Falls.
Through the efforts of Celebrate Great Fall Foundation known for its long-time community traditions and the support of many generous sponsors, including platinum sponsors AOG Wealth Management, Costa Family & Cosmetic Dentistry and 1 Roof, the talented female-fronted rock cover band, New Thirty, brought a high-energy mix of the latest dance and rock music from various genres.
Band members Melanie Cross lead vocalist, Nicole Eaddy lead vocalist/guitar, Jim Draughn lead/guitarist, Kenny Reym, piano/vocals/guitar, Kevin Kramer drums and Cam Towner, bass brought a sense of normalcy to the Great Falls community, one not experienced as a concert since summer 2019. "I feel during the pandemic, the part of what it means to be human has been missing, community, the socialization. It's awesome to see everyone together, but separate," said Eaddy of Vienna.
According to Liz Burnette of Vienna, whose parents live in Great Falls, the return to normal, or at least a semblance of normal proved magical. We are excited to be back at the 'Concerts on the Green.' It feels normal. The kids can run around and dance," Burnette said.
A quick overview of the Green showed families and friends seated in lawn chairs placed on large tarps, safely distanced, and “bubbled” from others. Short-legged portable tables, perfect for lawn concert dining, sat mid-center on tarps, offering a Sunday dinner of food and beverages from local shops and merchants.
"We worked to be sure to keep everyone safe while we gave them the opportunity for a cherished tradition. The Sunday 'Concerts on the Green' will continue until the end of September. Everyone has been so gracious and understanding and keeping their distance," said Erin Lobato, Director of Celebrate Great Falls. "All of our events are completely supported by our fantastic sponsors," she added.