NORWICH – The Norwich-based Van Morrison tribute band “Mystic Moondance” under the direction of Bruce Beadle Sr. have announced that they will return to the Martin W. Kappell theater stage within the Chenango Arts Council for the 2015 installment of “Chenango has Talent”
In 2014, the fundraising event raised more than $2000 which was donated to Chenango County Catholic Charities (CCCC). In addition to the funds raised for CCCC, the even generated nearly $800 for the local St. Baldrick’s charity.
Over the years, Beadle and his band mates have paid their dues on the local stages, entertaining thousands of fans far and near looking for a good time; but the group – along with co-organizer Mike McCormack who originally pitched the idea to golf-buddy Beadle – knew that Mystic Moondance could put it's combined years of expertise and philanthropy to task for a good cause. And thus Chenango Has talent was conceived.
While the ideals are much the same, this year's version of the charitable event will benefit two different locally based organizations – The Chenango United Way (CUW) along with The Chenango Arts Council.
“I feel that this United Way is a perfect fit for this type of fundraiser as they give also much to the community,” said Beadle. “Over the past decade, the (CUW) has struggled with meeting their campaign goals, and we felt that this would be a perfect opportunity to give them a boost,” Beadle added.
Beadle also noted that the Chenango Arts Council is another a worthy recipient of 50 percent of the events proceeds for all o f the community outreach that the organization conducts throughout the year.
Throughout the years, Beadle has weaved many a Van Morrison cover song into his set list. With his appreciation for the unique styling of Van Morrison, Beadle – with the recommendation of his band mates – would eventually form a tribute band, paying homage to the iconic Irish frontman known as “Van the Man.”
Beadle, along with a golf league acquaintance Mike McCormack, had been mulling over ideas for a benefit to help to assist area non-profits raise funding for as a community outreach endeavor. The spark of ideas between McCormack and Beadle would ultimately ignite a blaze of brainstorming and networking that would eventually produce the inaugural Chenango has Talent showcase.
“We thought that this would be a great way to kick off something that could work to the advantage of multiple organizations as well as local performers, local venues as well as bring a night of fun to the folks of Chenango County,” said Beadle.
While the fundamentals of charity are at the core of the much anticipated event, Beadle and his group are powerhouse of soul and R&B made up of and top-notch talent. Recently, Mystic Moondance were invited to play at The Turning Stone Resort; and with a February 14 show penciled for The Foothills Performing Arts Center in Oneonta – people are definitely paying a good time while making a donation.
Opening for Bruce Beadle & Mystic Moon Dance will be locally revered traditional Irish band “The Ryan Clan.” The Chenango County favorite will kick off their busiest month of performances at the Feb. 28 event. “Everyone looks forward to the Ryan Clan though the month of March, and this is a great 'break-in' for their busy upcoming schedule,” said Beadle.
The Chenango has Talent showcase and fundraiser event is scheduled to open it's doors at 6 p.m. on February 28, show starts at 7 p.m.
A limited number of Tickets are available and selling quickly. Prices are $20 advance sale, $25 at the door night of show and can be purchased at Chenango Arts Council box office, NBT Bank Norwich, The Blarney Stone Pub, Hummel’s Office, Chenango United Way or by calling Bruce Beadle at 244–5481.