Back by popular demand; Coos Canyon Band

RUMFORD- The Rumford Performing Arts (RPA) have invited the Coos Canyon Band back for an encore performance on February 19 at the auditorium here for a 7 to 9 p.m. show. Tickets will be available at the door for $8.

They bring a wide array of songs from the 60's, 70's, 80's and 90's. The band mixes things up with some Barney Martin comedy and entertainment.

This, along with three other annual shows is part of the yearly schedule of events the RPA has decided to showcase. The other show that is slated on an annual basis is the Festival of Trees held in December.

“We really want to focus on bringing four quality shows to town,” noted volunteer Jim Rinaldo. “With the economy the way it is, we have to be just as aware of our financial position as every one else is.”

The goal of the RPA is to provide low-priced, quality shows to the citizens of the area, with a set ticket price of $10 or less per person, per show and donations of refreshments to sell.

“We would like to partner with other organizations for the shows we put on,” stated Rinaldo. “If we work together, we both make out in the end.”

The RPA has, on average, 12 dedicated volunteers who make food for the events, book the shows and help take care of advertising, marketing and financial matters. Any donations, either monetary or product is greatly appreciated, as the RPA would rather not solicit businesses.

“Local businesses are tapped way too often for donations by so many people,” noted Rinaldo. “We would rather not be added to that list.”

Burt Defrees recently made a sizeable donation to the group and many groups have come forth with in-kind donations.

According to Rinaldo, the RPA is looking for a donation of speakers so they can better outfit the upstairs balcony for more attendance. The auditorium has the potential of holding 400 people.

If anyone is interested in volunteering their time, donating money or product, or even combining forces to bring great inexpensive shows to town, contact Jim Rinaldo at 364-2983.