NEWBURYPORT — The Maudslay Arts Center Summer Concert Series will celebrate its 31st season with a lineup of concerts featuring something for every musical taste from big band to jazz, from funk to bluegrass, from country to the Great American Songbook.
Whether you’re sitting under the stars on a moonlit evening or lounging on a blanket on a Sunday afternoon, the Maudslay Arts Center Summer Concert Series provides the perfect setting for your entertainment pleasure.
“We dedicate the 2024 season to Maudslay State Park supervisor Rob Kovacs, who is retiring this summer after 37 years of dedicated service. Rob has been a tireless advocate for continuous improvements and enhancements at the park, especially Maudslay Arts Center,” MAC Director Nicholas C. Costello said.
Saturday concerts begin at 7 p.m., including Brian Thomas Quintet on July 13, Mike Monaghan Quintet on July 20, New Black Eagle Jazz Band on July 27, Hillyer Festival Orchestra on Aug 10, Gray Sargent Trio on Aug. 17, and The Don Campbell Band on Aug. 24.
Sunday afternoon performances begin at 2 p.m., including Donna Byrne on July 14, Acoustic Roadshow on July 21, The Ruta Beggars on July 28, The Bobby Keyes Trio on Aug. 1, and Amanda Carr on Aug. 18.
MAC is a popular cultural and entertainment destination that has served tens of thousands of patrons since its founding 31 years ago in 1992. Situated in a picturesque corner of the 442-acre Maudslay State Park in Newburyport, MAC is best known for its outstanding summer concert series.
Since its beginning, the center continues to operate through the effort of volunteers. All costs are offset by gate receipts, rentals for special occasions, and donations from patrons and businesses, the release said. No tax dollars are involved.
The concerts are held rain or shine, moving to the indoor performance hall adjacent to the patio when weather dictates.
Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner, which can be casual or as elaborate as a gourmet meal with tablecloth and flowers. Desserts such as seasonal cobblers, brownies and Hodgie’s ice cream, and cold beverages may be purchased from volunteers during intermission.
“We want to say, ‘thank you’ to the volunteer staff,” Costello said, “who continue to maintain the flowers, the grounds, and help to facilitate concerts.”
The gates open at 6 p.m. for the Saturday performances. Patio seating (tables and chairs) is $35 while lawn seating (bring your own chairs or blankets) is $30. Children 12 and under are admitted for free.
The gates open at 1 p.m. for the Sunday performances. General admission is $20 with open seating on the patio and lawn. Tables and chairs are provided on the patio. Special group rates may be arranged by calling 978-388-2552. Children 12 and under are admitted for free.
For the complete summer schedule, to purchase tickets online or for more information about the performers, visit the center’s website at www.maudslayartscenter.org. Tickets also may be purchased at the gate (check or cash only) or by calling 978-388-2552. There is no reserved seating. Gift certificates also are available.
The series is operated and supported by dedicated volunteers, private donors, ticket sales and rentals, and the staff of the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). Saturday evening concerts are supported by Newburyport Bank.