Doowop show to gather talent from around region

Date: 10/27/2009

By Lori Szepelak

Correspondent



CHICOPEE -- For doo-wop fans across the region, the New England Doowop Society promises another high-caliber show on Nov. 7 at the Castle of Knights on Memorial Drive.

"When we produce a show we oversee every detail to ensure everything is in place from sound man to our lighting director," Gary Jones of the New England Doowop Society, said during an interview with Reminder Publications. "We pride ourselves on starting on time and making sure our audience receives the very best entertainment that we can deliver."

Jones noted that he and Bob Belniak always have at least one original recording member of each headline group.

"Although we have been approached by some major national groups we have declined to use them knowing that there are no original members in that particular group," Jones added.

The Demensions will be the featured performers, along with Johnnie & Joe, The Sharades, and local singer Johnny Baer. Show time is promptly at 8 p.m.

"We chose to bring the Demensions in for several reasons," Jones said. "Their vocals are impeccable, they have great stage presence, and without a doubt will be some of the nicest people to grace our stage."

Jones added that the Demensions' version of "Over the Rainbow" is one of the best versions area residents will ever hear.

"We are fortunate to have the original lead voice of Lenny Dell who will be doing the honors when they perform," he said.

Johnnie & Joe had a hit record in 1957 titled "Over the Mountain, Across the Sea" which reached #3 on the Billboards Top 100, and they have performed on the PBS doo-wop specials.

"Johnnie and Joe will captivate you with their super harmonies and showmanship," Jones said, adding, "They are truly a class act."

The Sharades of Hartford, Conn., are also on the bill for the evening, and provide an energetic set of 50's classics.

"The Sharades are simply put unending energy and talent," Jones said.

Local performer Johnny Baer will also make a guest appearance.

"Johnny has a unique voice which is powerful yet soothing," Jones added.

Tickets are still available for the rock 'n' roll revival evening, and can be purchased by calling Jones at 478-0901 or Belniak at 786-1929. All seats are reserved. Tickets are $30 for the show only or $42 for the buffet and show. The optional buffet begins at 6:30 p.m. and includes tossed salad, black bean soup, breast of chicken Portuguese, fillet of sole almandine, lyonnaise potatoes, vegetable, rolls and butter, carrot cake, blueberry pie and beverage.

A 50/50 raffle is also planned during the evening, along with a few "surprises," according to Jones.

"Having been in music one way or another for over 45 years, it is nice to see and meet the voices behind the records that we grew up with," Jones said.

Jones emphasized that one aspect of the evening that sets the New England Doowop Society apart from others is that all entertainers are available for photos, autographs, or just to say hello and shake one's hand.

For information on the New England Doowop Society, go to www.newenglanddoowopsociety.org.