The Cedar Cultural Center Celebrates 20 Years of Great Music

Minneapolis, MN (PRWEB) August 26, 2008 -- The Cedar Cultural Center announces its 20th season celebration as part of a campaign to attract new patrons and long-time music enthusiasts. This initiative includes partnering with other music venues and organizations, improving the physical space and sound system, and presenting a variety of performances by new and well-known artists.

The new season includes famous local acts like Haley Boner, Martin Dosh and Iowa native Greg Brown. International artists such as the Gyuto Monks, the Klezmatics and Toumani Diabate remain a significant part of The Cedar's offerings. Additionally, The Cedar is hosting The Blanks, made famous on the TV show Scrubs, Richie Havens, who opened Woodstock, and many others to help celebrate the venue.

"Our goal for the 20th season is to display where we have been and the really exciting path we are on," says Executive Director Robert Simonds. "Improvements to both the physical space and sound system are part of an effort to provide a venue where musicians enjoy playing and where music lovers are eager to hear a concert. This is a great time to celebrate The Cedar," Says Simonds. "Thanks to support from local foundations, corporations and a great group of music fans who keep coming back for more our musicians and patrons tell us that we have the best sound in the city." This fall, Bosch/ElectroVoice of Bloomington is working with The Cedar to upgrade the entire sound system.

Simonds, who has been involved with The Cedar for more than 17 years, is eager to engage the corporate and social community in Minneapolis. "This year we're working with other local organizations to bring in acts like Jolie Holland and David Bromberg. We're trying to do our part to enhance the corridor of great music venues found right here on Cedar Avenue."

The rise of live music along the five-block strip has significantly increased evening foot traffic in The Cedar's West Bank neighborhood. To take advantage of the increased traffic, The Cedar is re-storing its historic marquee. The "Light the Marquee" campaign is an important part of the 20th season initiatives.

Programming is still the key factor for the success of The Cedar. With an eye to the next generation of music-lovers, The "Cedar Family" and "Concerts for Youth" bring in all ages from all over the city. This year's weekend matinee shows for families include Ralph's World, Peter Himmelman, Kimya Dawson of "Juno" soundtrack fame, and many more.

The 20th season at The Cedar kicks off on Thursday, September 4th with a free show, emceed by Kevin Kling and music by Orange Mighty Trio and Lucy Michelle and the Velvet Lapelles.

For more information and a full schedule of events for the 20th season at the Cedar, please go to:

http://www.thecedar.org

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