The Northeast Louisiana Arts Council hosts the free Brown Bag Concert Series at noon on Wednesdays during the month of April in downtown Monroe's Palace Park.
Series organizer Georgia Street explains, "These concerts serve a twofold purpose. We want to bring wonderful free entertainment to our community, but also we want to introduce our local musical artists to the community. It's a great opportunity to take a break, get outside in the sunshine, and enjoy good music."
On April 5 the series kicks off with Lee Denton, who takes his inspiration from pop and rock greats such as Børns, Elton John, and Queen. Lee has been singing and playing since he was a young boy.
April 12 brings Josh Madden and Abby Thomas. Josh is an award-winning musician and teacher, known for his eclectic style and laid-back performances. Joining him is Abby Thomas, new to the series, but well known to the region after her performance in last year’s Always... Patsy Cline at Strauss Theatre Center. Together the two will perform a blend of his laid-back, rockin’ style with her straight-to-the-heart voice.
April 19 features Bill Haley. Haley developed his love of music and performance through concert choir during his school years. Since then, he has performed and worked as music director in Baptist churches for nearly five decades.
The final concert of the series on April 26 features the Homegrown Band, an ensemble with roots in Morehouse Parish. All five members are vocalists who provide accompaniment with a variety of instruments. Robin Baggarly is on fiddle and percussion; John Creech performs on guitar and mandolin; Renee Decker on percussion and trumpet; Mike Estep on, and Clarence Lindsay on piano and harmonica.
Palace Park is at 220 DeSiard Street, beside the old location of the Palace Department Store. Public parking can be found at 4th Street and Desiard.
Boxed lunches will be available for purchase. Free cookies will also be available. Picnic blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged.
More information is available from the Arts Council office at 397.6717 or 397.6754 or at the Arts Council's website. In case of rain, the concerts will move indoors to the old Palace Department Store next to the park.
