First Night Artists
Download the entire First Night Akron 2010 Event Guide.
SELECT GENRE: Theatre | Music | Visual | Dance | Interactive
All Artists
A.H.D Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program-Free Photos
Akron-Summit County Public Library-High St. Level 6-10
Families, kids and couples can remember their First Night experience with a free photo courtesy of Akron Health Department Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, Kiwanis Club of West Akron, Akron Area Soap Box Derby and the United States Census 2010.
Premiere: New project! Experience the best of Akron events!
Stage sponsored by The University of Akron
Site Sponsored by Acme Fresh Market
Akron DerbyTown Barbershop Chorus
Greystone Hall: Ballroom, 2nd Floor 9-10
Experience barbershop harmony at its best - then join in as the audience sings along.
Premiere: Never before heard new songs!
Stage sponsored by National City - Now part of PNC
Site Sponsored by The John A. McAlonan Fund
Akron Society of Artists
Summit Artspace: 3rd Floor 5-9
The Akron Society of Artists gallery will feature works by members, with artists present and demonstrating their working process. Stop by from 5-7 p.m. to sit for a caricature by Dino Massaroni.
Premiere: First time appearing at First Night Akron!
This Site Sponsored By: Akron Beacon Journal
Akron-Summit County Public Library Children's Make & Take
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Children's Room 5-9
Stop by the Children's Library to make a Chinese Dragon or a shooting star craft!
Premiere: New make & take!
Site Sponsored by Acme Fresh Market
Alex Bevan
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 2 5-5:45
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 2 6-6:30
Alex is back with his flawless performance. A fixture of the Northeast Ohio music scene, let his guitar playing capture you!
Premiere: New songs!
Stage sponsored by OMNOVA Solutions
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
Artists of Rubber City: The BOX
Summit Artspace: 3rd Floor 5-11
Artists of Rubber City is a nonprofit arts group that advocates for the appreciation and ownership of local art. The group's new gallery, the BOX, is located on the third floor of Summit Artspace. Currently on view is the annual all-member show. Exhibitions of local and regional art will be ongoing in The BOX.
Premiere: First time appearing at First Night Akron!
This Site Sponsored By: Akron Beacon Journal
Beach Boyz Entertainment
Lock 3: Outdoor Stage 5-11:30
Offering first-rate fun and an outstanding mix of music.
Premiere: DJ-ing at First Night for the first time!
Site Sponsored by the City of Akron
Big Daddy and the HooDoo Men
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 1 5-5:45
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 1 6-6:30
This authentic American Blues band takes influences from such original masters as Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters and B.B. King!
Premiere: Featuring songs from their new album Galehouse Blues!
Stage sponsored by The University of Akron
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
Blood, Sweat & Beers
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 2 7-7:30
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 2 7:45-8:30
Ohio's premiere rock band is returning home to Akron to share their great sound and huge song selection for a very special New Year's Eve.
Premiere: New songs!
Stage sponsored by OMNOVA Solutions
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
Bo Bo & Gina
Around Town 6-10
Balloon hats, balloon animals, and magic...oh my!
Premiere: Featuring Bo Bo's new partner Gina and debuting sidewalk magic!
Braids & Beads
Lock 3: O'Neil Commons 6-11
Kids can creat their own color scheme of beads that the artist, Toni Weems, braids at this interactive event!
Premiere: Now doing hair wraps as well as braids!
Supported by County of Summit Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health (ADM) Services Board
Site Sponsored by Akron Community Foundation
Brian Henke
Summit Artspace: Gallery 6:30-7:30
Summit Artspace: Gallery 8-9
Summit Artspace: Gallery 9:30-10:30
Composing music like a painter putting images on canvas, Brian Henke is a kind of sonic shaman, drawing his inspiration from the natural world around him.
Premiere: Performing brand new material from his upcoming CD, "A Child's Garden!"
Stage sponsored by the Charles E. & Mabel M. Ritchie Foundation
This Site Sponsored By: Akron Beacon Journal
Brian Lisik
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Classroom 10-11
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Classroom 8:30-9:30
Enjoy the melodic tunes of this Ohio-based singer/songwriter.
Premiere: The debut screening of his long-awaited documentary film played to his music, "On the Wrong Side of the Canal!"
Supported by Brouse McDowell, LPA
Site Sponsored by Acme Fresh Market
Carolyn E. Lewis Studio
Summit Artspace: 3rd Floor 5-9
Come enjoy "Painting the Night Away," with Carolyn E. Lewis featuring artists demonstrating oil painting landscapes. Lewis' latest artwork and the artwork of her students will also be on view.
Premiere: First time appearing at First Night Akron!
This Site Sponsored By: Akron Beacon Journal
Case Sensitive
Akron Art Museum: Auditorium 7-7:45
Akron Art Museum: Auditorium 8-8:45
This young progressive-indie-funk style band plays a mix of covers and originals.
Premiere: New original song!
Cats on Holiday
John S. Knight Center-Goodyear Ballroom 7-7:45
John S. Knight Center-Goodyear Ballroom 8-9
This hard rockin', swamp poppin' group will serve a healthy dose of American influenced roots, country, Cajun and blues. Join them for a high energy, crowd participating "Mardi Gras" street party!
Premiere: The Cats will premiere their own unique renditions of a couple of zydeco standards, "Co Fa" by The Soileau Zydeco Band and "Big Mamou" by Wayne Toups.
Stage sponsored by The Mary S. and David C. Corbin Foundation
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
Chil
Akron Art Museum: Auditorium 5-5:45
Akron Art Museum: Auditorium 6-6:30
This four-person teen band plays music from popular acts such as Green Day, Switchfoot, Blink 182, Plain White T’s and many more.
Premiere: Cheer on Stow’s hottest teen rock band as they premiere their first original song, for the very first time!
Confucius Institute Make & Take
Akron Art Museum 6-11
The University of Akron's Confucius Institute is part of an international network of Confucius Institutes, supported by the Chinese Minstry of Education, dedicated to "enhancing the understanding of the Chinese language and culture" around the world.
Premiere: The Confucius Institute's first time participating in First Night! Learn Chinese writing and language!
Site Sponsored by the Akron Community Foundation
Constellations Dance Company
Akron-Summit County Public Library: Auditorium 5-5:45
Akron-Summit County Public Library: Auditorium 6-6:30
Enjoy works from this pre-professional dance company.
Premiere: Amazing new choreography!
Stage sponsored by Labels & Letters.
Site Sponsored by Acme Fresh Market
Creatures of the Midnight Sun
Summit Artspace: 3rd Floor 5-11
This project follows First Night 2008 & First Night 2009's successful presentation of Land of the Midnight Sun and Return of the Midnight Sun, A Black Light Art Installation and Exhibition at Summit Artspace.
Premiere: Incorporating light and sound, Creatures of the Midnight Sun will premiere an animated two and three-dimensional work of art in the form of imaginary animals under a black light. Remember your camera to capture memories in the Family Photo Safari Adventure!
Stage sponsored by County of Summit.
This Site Sponsored By: Akron Beacon Journal
Dan Robertson
Greystone Hall: Doric Room, 4th Floor 6-7
Greystone Hall: Doric Room, 4th Floor 7:15-8
Dan has played with and opened for several national acts such as The Guess Who, Steve Camp and The Imperials. Listen as he performs music from his two solo CD's Corbain and Pavolov's Dogs.
Premiere: New songs!
Supported by the Lloyd L. and Louise K. Smith Memorial Foundation
Site Sponsored by The John A. McAlonan Fund
Dream Pillows - How Cassie Learned To Fly!
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 5-9
In the story, "Tar Beach," Cassie Louise LIghtfoot learns to fly and makes her dream come true! Join Dream Pillows and create your own unique dream pillow using fabric, ribbons, buttons and yarn.
Premiere: New interactive project!
Elegant Ice Creations
Lock 3: Outdoor Stage 7-7:45
Lock 3: Outdoor Stage 8-8:45
Lock 3: Outdoor Stage 9:15-10
Olympic ice sculptor Aaron Costic and his crew will amaze you with their skills and designs! Watch as they sculpt blocks of ice into masterpieces!
Premiere: New Sculptures!
Site Sponsored by City of Akron
ETC School of Musical Arts
Greystone Hall: Ballroom, 2nd Floor 7-7:30
Greystone Hall: Ballroom, 2nd Floor 8-8:30
Fergie & The Bog Dogs
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 2 10:45-11:30
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 2 9:30-10:30
One of the area's favorite Irish bands delights in bringing traditional Celtic music to modern audiences.
Premiere: New songs!
Supported by The Murdough Foundation
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
Field of Snow
Akron-Summit County Public Library: Amphitheater 5-11
A sound and light installation celebrating urban winter.
Premiere: A new installation!
This Site Sponsored by Acme Fresh Market
First Night Dragon
Main & Bowery 5-12
Catch a glimpse of the First Night Dragon.
First Night Idol
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 1 6-7:30
Guests will enjoy this 7th annual high school singing competition. Watch as talented area finalists compete to claim the top prize!
Premiere: New performers and songs!
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
First Night Luminaries
Around Town 5-12
The First Night Luminaries, designed by participants in the Summer Arts Experience program, light up the First Night footprint.
First Night Make & Take
Lock 3: O'Neil Commons 5-8:30
Make an illuminoisy at Lock 3! Creat your own illuminated noisemaker from recyclables, bells, pipe cleaners, streamers and glowsticks. Make your own drums, shakers and maracas or make up a creative instrument of your own! Make it, take it and shake it through the procession of the Kids fireworks at 9pm. A First Night Fun-damental!
Premiere: New make & take!
Site Sponsored by the City of Akron
First Night Rock Band: Beach Boyz Entertainment
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 1 9-10:30
Have you always wanted to be a rock star? Come and take your shot at your dream during the First Night Rock Band video game event. Sign up at the door to play the song of your choice with your family and friends.
Premiere: New songs to perform!
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
Geldryk, The World's Tallest Elf
Around Town 6-6:30
Around Town 6:45-7:15
Around Town 7:45-9
Visit with Geldryk, the world's tallest elf as he sings, tells stories and encourages silliness!
Premiere: New songs!
Get Painted
Come get your own airbrush temporary tattoo!
Premiere: New designs!
Site Sponsored by the City of Akron
Gospel Wonders
Greystone Hall-Theater, 6th Floor 5-6
Greystone Hall-Theater, 6th Floor 6:15-7
Listen as Gospel Wonders articulates the love of God through songs, service and praise.
Premiere: New songs!
Site Sponsored by The John A. McAlonan Fund
Green Print Akron
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 5-9
"We are all together to create a Green Akron," is the theme for this interactive artwork by artist Yi Joy Qiu. Children will have the chance to add their own work to this project.
Premiere: A new interactive project!
Gypsies in the Palace
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 2 10:30-11:30
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 2 9-10:15
Whether inclined to waste away in Margaritaville, devour a cheeseburger in paradise or investigate a crime of passion in Cuba, audiences are whisked into a feeding frenzy by Northeast Ohio-based Gypsies in the Palace, a trop-rock band playing original and Jimmy Buffett music.
Premiere: First time performing at First Night Akron as well as several new songs and surprises!
Stage sponsored by OMNOVA Solutions
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
Hard Day's Night
Akron Civic Theatre: Stage 10:30-11:30
Akron Civic Theatre: Stage 9:30-10:15
Hailing from the rock’n’roll city of Cleveland, Ohio, Hard Day’s Night is rated among the top national Beatles groups performing today. They have performed for thousands of Beatle fans in England and the United States. Come watch as Hard Day’s Night continues to carry on the excitement of Beatlemania!
Premiere: Playing new songs including “Come Together” and “Daytripper” as well as an interactive portion to the song “Hey Jude.”
Supported by Cohen & Company, CPAs.
This Site Sponsored by: Kenneth L. Calhoun, a KeyBank Trust
Harmonica Hotshots
Akron-Summit County Public Library 6-6:30
Akron-Summit County Public Library 7:30-8
The Harmonica Hotshots combine spectacular harmonica artistry with novelty tunes and light humor to present high energy entertainment with innovative and exciting musical arrangements!
Premiere: New special arrangement including Star Wars and Orange Blossom.
Stage sponsored by The University of Akron.
Site sponsored by Acme Fresh Market
Hey Mavis
Greystone Hall: Doric Room, 4th Floor 10:30-11:15
Lock 3: Indoors 5-5:45
Lock 3: Indoors 6-6:45
Lock 3: Indoors 7-7:45
Lock 3: Outdoor Stage 8:15-8:45
Greystone Hall: Doric Room, 4th Floor 9:30-10:15
Interactive and creative workshop for children ages 8 and up as well as their parents! Participants will craft their First Night memories and experiences into a song that will premiere at the First Night Kids Countdown. The music of Hey Mavis is self-described as "Modern Old-Timey," but can also be called Americana and Modern Folk.
Sign up here to participate in the workshop! (*Sign up recommended but not required*)
Premiere: New workshop and performance!
Lock 3 sponsored by the City of Akron
Greystone Hall sponsored by The John A McAlonan Fund
Holiday Window Displays
UA Polsky Building 5-11
Akron’s holiday displays are part of a countless number of families' holiday tradition. Beginning in the 1950s, Akron area families would flock to the animated holiday window displays in the O’Neil’s and Polsky’s building windows Downtown. The window displays were "unveiled" each Thanksgiving for the holiday season. It was a magical time. There was a period when the displays were brought inside the two department stores as part of their Santaland decor. By the end of the 1980s both O'Neil's and Polsky's stores were gone, leaving a void in local holiday family traditions. Downtown Akron Partnership brought the vintage displays back to the Akron community in 1999.
In 2005, because the former store fronts were utilized, leaving a void of this holiday tradition, the displays were set up inside the Main Library Downtown through the holiday season. DAP's collection includes a storybook display, Peter Pan, the Wizard of Oz, the Prince and Ice Princess, Santas of Christmas past, a train display and Raggedy Ann.
Howard Street Blues Band
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 1 10:45-11:30
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 1 9:30-10:30
The Howard Street Blues Band has received recognition in Spain, England and Poland for their blues music!
Premiere: A new song off their new album!
Stage sponsored by The University of Akron
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
Ian Ross Trio
UA Polsky: High Street Level 7-7:45
UA Polsky: High Street Level 8-9
The Ian Ross Trio combines classic soul jazz with modern blues and R&B elements.
Premiere: A new song and a feature performance with a one-of-a-kind guitar!
Stage sponsored by R.C. Musson & Katherine M. Musson Charitable Foundation.
This Site Sponsored By: FirstMerit Foundation
Intransit
METRO Transit Center 7-10
Akron's own Intransit is the coming together of three different musical and cultural backgrounds. With a repertoire of both original compositions and jazz standards, the trio aims to become one synchronized entity that creates improvisational music as a group, while complimenting each individual's distinctive vision for the music.
Premiere: "First Night Serenade," composed for First NIght Akron 2010!
Jim Gill
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 2 5:30-6:15
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 2 6:30-7
"Absolute killer voice!" is the consensus press on this singer/songwriter. "A captivating performer!" - writes the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
Premiere: Five new seasonal songs!
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
JiMiller Band
John S. Knight Center-Goodyear Ballroom 10:30-11:30
John S. Knight Center-Goodyear Ballroom 9:30-10:15
The JiMiller Band blends together blues, country, Cajun, Old rock 'n' roll, jazz and bluegrass into a musical Americana that is both fresh and timeless.
Premiere: A brand new original song, including an improvisational section performed just for First Night Akron 2010!
Stage sponsored by The Mary S. and David C. Corbin Foundation
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
joyUnspeakable Productions
John S. Knight Center-Lobby 6:30-10:30
Motionless posing and convincing costumes will make you think its a statue. Artist Mark Abbati uses only subtle but deliberate movements to communicate.
Premiere: The beach bum statue! This goofy beach nut with 30s style swimsuit, flippers and color beach inflatables is spunky and fun!
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
Kathy Johnson
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Children's Room 5:30-6
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Children's Room 6:15-6:45
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Children's Room 7-7:30
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Children's Room 7:45-8:15
Kathy Johnson is a one-of-a-kind singer-songwriter whose performances delight audiences of all ages. Listen to her eclectic music, including originals, folk, cowboy songs, vintage country, old rock and roll and standards from the 1920s, 30s and 40s.
Premiere: New songs!
Supported by Eliokem, Inc.
Site Sponsored by Acme Fresh Market
Kerry Kean
Akron Art Museum: Lobby 5:30-6:15
Akron Art Museum: Lobby 6:30-7:15
Akron Art Museum: Lobby 7:30-8
Kerry Kean writes and performs a wide variety of fingerstyle guitar compositions.
Premiere: A new piece inspired by the transition of one year into another and the joy at the culmination of the holiday season!
Lightly Seasoned
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Main St. Level 5-5:45
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Main St. Level 6-6:45
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Main St. Level 7-8
The barbershop quartet, Lightly Seasoned, specializes in songs America loves to sing and hear.
Premiere: New outfits, new songs and an interactive performance!
Stage sponsored by Roetzel & Andress LPA
Site Sponsored by Acme Fresh Market
Linda Hutchinson
Akron Civic Theatre: Lobby 5:30-10:30
Draw yourself into the parade of First Night party-goers with the help of artist Linda Hutchinson!
Premiere: A new interactive art piece!
Lisa & Heather Malyuk
Akron Art Museum: Lobby 10:45-11:30
Akron Art Museum: Lobby 8:30-9:30
Akron Art Museum: Lobby 9:45-10:30
These young, highly acclaimed musicians will unveil original compositions written in the folk tradition during sets of driving, energetic tunes and bittersweet old-fashioned melodies.
Premiere: New music!
Lou Santini
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 2 7:30-8:15
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 2 8:30-9
You remember him from WZIP, WRQK and WMMS. In his fifth appearance at Frist Night Akron comedian Lou Santini dishes out hilarious, witty, clever and universal comedy.
Premiere: A new stand-up routine!
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
MacConmara Academy of Irish Dance
Akron-Summit County Public Library: Auditorium 10:15-11
Akron-Summit County Public Library: Auditorium 9:15-10
Watch as these National Championship Dancers perform ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, and Irish dance.
Premiere: An interactive segment!
Stage sponsored by Labels & Letters.
Site Sponsored by Acme Fresh Markets
Magic Mike Productions
Around Town 6-9
Invoking the spirit of legendary Houdini, Magic Mike reappears at First Night with mind baffling interactive street magic and in your face illusions!
Premiere: A new illusion!
Magical Theater Company
Akron-Summit County Public Library-High St. Level 5-6
Akron-Summit County Public Library-High St. Level 6:30-7:30
Magical Theater Company presents an astounding bit of acting, storytelling and music that reinvents the classic tale, "Little Red Riding Hood in the Wood," in a simple, yet sophisticated manner.
Premiere: A new performance!
Stage sponsored by The University of Akron
Site Sponsored by Acme Fresh Market
Martell School of Dance
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 1 8-8:45
Family-friendly, up-beat choreographed dancing including a number to "You Can't Stop The Beat," from the musical Hairspray!
Premiere: New original choreography!
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
Martin and Marshall
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Main St. Level 8:30-9:15
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Main St. Level 9:30-10:30
Making their premiere performance in Akron, Martin and Marshall will be singing and playing the blues from their brand new CD!
Premiere: First time performing in Akron!
Stage sponsored by Roetzel & Andress LPA
Site Sponsored by Acme Fresh Market
Matthew Abelson
Akron Civic Theatre: Upstairs 5:45-6
Akron Civic Theatre: Upstairs 6:30-7
Akron Civic Theatre: Upstairs 7:45-8
Akron Civic Theatre: Upstairs 8:45-9
Artist Matthew Abelson is proud to introduce, “The Infinite Shapes of Snow Flakes,” a new instrumental composition, written especially for First Night illuminating the many sparkling facets of the winter season.
Premiere: Matthew Abelson’s newest composition!
Mercy Rising
Greystone Hall-Theater, 6th Floor 7:30-8:15
Greystone Hall-Theater, 6th Floor 8:30-9
Listen to the music of this up and coming modern Christian rock band with thought provoking lyrics and unforgettable guitar licks!
Premiere: Music from their new album, "Waiting for the Sky to Fall"
Site Sponsored by John A. McAlonan Fund
METRO Birthday Clown
METRO Transit Center 6-9
Come celebrate the METRO Transit Center's first birthday and get a balloon creation from the METRO Birthday Clown.
Premiere: First time performing at First Night Akron!
METRO Make & Take
METRO Transit Center 5-11
Decorate a cookie to celebrate the METRO Transit Station's first birthday and decorate a First Night treat bag to fill up with goodies you collect throughout the night.
Premiere: two new interactive make & takes!
Michael Roy's Cirque Du Papier
Around Town 5:30-9:30
Introducing exquisite and interactive origami, starring the humle sheet of paper--transformed!
Premiere: Two sea creatures, folded simultaneously!
Mixed-Up Strings
Greystone Hall-Egyptian Room, 4th Floor 5-5:45
Greystone Hall-Egyptian Room, 4th Floor 6-6:45
Greystone Hall-Egyptian Room, 4th Floor 7-7:30
Local favorite, Mixed-Up Strings, is an eclectic group of musicians who offer toe tapping melodies of front-porch tune favorites, enjoyed by generations of Appalachian families.
Premiere: New arrangements!
Site Sponsored by The John A. McAlonan Fund
Mo' Mojo
Akron Civic Theatre: Stage 7-7:45
Akron Civic Theatre: Stage 8-9
This Zydeco jam band, featuring button box fiddle, blends Creole and Cajon melodies with blues and pop. Their dynamic energetic show appeals to the ears, eyes and feet.
Premiere: A new song!
North East Ohio Girl Scouts Make & Take
Akron-Summit County Public Library 6-10
Join the Girl Scouts of North East Ohio as they celebrate the old year and ring in the New Year with Make & Take projects.
Premiere: A new make & take!
This Site Sponsored by: Acme Fresh Market
O'Hare Irish School of Dance
Akron-Summit County Public Library: Auditorium 7-7:45
Akron-Summit County Public Library: Auditorium 8-8:45
A lively performance of jigs, reels, hornpipes and more! Presented in collaboration with the Akron, Canton, Medina and Independence studios by some of Tim O'Hare's est dancers, this performance is reminiscent of Riverdance and Lord of the Dance.
Premiere: A new workshop and demonstration for children 5 and up with new material!
Stage sponsored by Labels & Letters.
Site Sponsored by Acme Fresh Markets
Pat Catan's Mask Making
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 5-9
First Night's favorite make and take returns! From glitter and sequins, to feather and beats--you're sure to find the perfect supplies to create and masterpiece. Show off your creation as you enjoy the New Year's festivities!
Premiere: Make a mask to wear in the First Night Procession!
Rio Neon
UA Polsky: Main Street Level 5-5:45
UA Polsky: Main Street Level 6-6:45
UA Polsky: Main Street Level 7-7:30
Rio Neon combines the best elements of swing, jazz, traditional folk music and original tunes guaranteed to bring a smile! Premiere: A new song, composed by their female vocalist, entitled "A Kiss for New Year's Eve!" Stage sponsored by Sisler McFawn Foundation. This Site is Sponsored By: FirstMerit Foundation
Scavenge the Summer: Summer Arts Experience Scavenger Hunt
Around Town 6-9
The fruits of Summer are all around us! Locate seven Summer Arts Experience installations by following the clues obtained from the docent volunteer at each of the locations. Complete your scavenger hunt and receive a free ticket to the Summer 2010 Lock 3 Live Concert Series (some exclusions apply). Find the first installation in the scavenger hunt by solving this clue: Its painted images reflect Akron as a resource for views picturesque, celestial, and local in flavor. Find it on the second floor of Downtown's greatest collection of resources.
Premiere: New First Night scavenger hunt!
Scouting with the Great Trail Council of the Boy Scouts of America
Main Street 5-11:30
Join in celebrating 100 years of Scouting with the Great Trail Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Experience what thousands of area Scouts already know; the joys of camping, cooking outdoors and learning the timeless values Scouting has taught our youth since 1910. Enjoy scout-made hot chocolate and chili!
Premiere: Learn Scouting skills with the Boy Scouts of America!
Silent Lion
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Classroom 5:30-6
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Classroom 6:15-7
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Classroom 7:15-8
Join Silent Lion as they time travel across different styles of music from all over the world, sharing energizing, romantic and exotic masterpieces.
Premiere: New Songs!
Site Sponsored by Acme Fresh Market
Small-Field Studios: Beneath the Land of Ice and Snow
Akron Civic Theatre: Marquee 5-12
Following last year’s “Land of Ice and Snow,” artists Daniel Coffield and Kevin Smalley bring you a new vision, “Beneath the Land of Ice and Snow.”
Premiere: Small-Field Studio’s latest creation, a mixed media aquatic adventure featuring original music scores, exciting video, colorful lights and interactive animatronics by the artists.
Steve McClain
UA Polsky: High Street Level 5-5:45
UA Polsky: High Street Level 6-6:30
Originally from Kent, Ohio, Steve McClain is a singer/songwriter based in Nashville. His music has been featured on 91.3The Summit in Akron as well as Lightning 100 in Nashville.
Premiere: Several new songs!
Stage sponsored by the R.C. Musson & Katharine M. Musson Charitable Foundation
This Site Sponsored By: FirstMerit Foundation
Stimulus
Akron Art Museum: Auditorium 10:30-11:30
Akron Art Museum: Auditorium 9:30-10:15
Teen rock band Stimulus currently features covers of Aerosmith, Led Zeplin, Queen, Guns ‘N Roses, Nirvana, Jimi Hendrix, The Who, Ozzy Osbourne and more as well as their own original tunes.
Premiere: A new original composition written by Cam Johnson!
Stow Heritage Ringers
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 5-5:30
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 5:45-6:30
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 6:45-7:30
Enjoy the sounds of the season! Stow Heritage Ringers is an advanced handbell ensemble that welcomes the opportunity to share their passion for handbells with an audience.
Premiere: Performing a new song and hand-on experience!
Supported by the Mofitt Foundation.
This site sponsored by: Goodyear
Street Beat Drummers
Around Town 7-12
The Street Beat Drummers will keep you on your toes! Watch for them as they make their way through Downtown with a smile on their faces and a rhythm drum that will get your toes tapping!
Premiere: New "beats" and flair to their costumes.
Studio Hope
John S. Knight Center-Lobby 5-11
Featuring digital music for the whole family! Try Studio Hope's vocal effects station to make your voice sound like helium, Darth Vader and many more.
Premiere: A new interactive program!
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
Summit County Historical Society Presents Days of Akron Past
Summit Artspace 5-11
Life is a lot like a quilt. Once all the pieces come together they produce a lovely work. Join Summit County HIstorical Society as they "piece" together your Akron memories into a quilt to tell our community history. Photographs and artifacts will also be on display.
Premiere: New First Night project!
This Site Sponsored By: Akron Beacon Journal
Testing Featured Artist This is Name
A uniquely intense and passionate acoustic blues duo featuring Bongo Joe on guitar and Little Steve-O on harmonica and vocals. When these guys perform, you'll feel it deep down in your soulA uniquely intense and passionate acoustic blues duo featuring Bongo Joe on guitar and Little Steve-O on harmonica and vocals. When these guys perform, you'll feel it deep down in your soulA uniquely intense and passionate acoustic blues duo featuring Bongo Joe on guitar and Little Steve-O on harmonica and vocals. When these guys perform, you'll feel it deep down in your soul
A uniquely intense and passionate acoustic blues duo featuring Bongo Joe on guitar and Little Steve-O on harmonica and vocals. When these guys perform, you'll feel it deep down in your soulA uniquely intense and passionate acoustic blues duo featuring Bongo Joe on guitar and Little Steve-O on harmonica and vocals. When these guys perform, you'll feel it deep down in your soul
The Backporch Swing Band
Greystone Hall-Egyptian Room, 4th Floor 10-10:45
Greystone Hall-Egyptian Room, 4th Floor 8-8:45
Greystone Hall-Egyptian Room, 4th Floor 9-9:45
Ohio's premiere western swing band features the Ohio State Fiddle Champion Adam Jackson, the smooth vocals of Kris Geis and jazzy stylings of mandolinist Zeke Huthinson.
Premiere: A new First Night artist!
Supported by GoJo Industries.
Site Sponsored by The John A. McAlonan Fund
The Chapel Worship Band
Greystone Hall-Theater, 6th Floor 10:30-11:15
Greystone Hall-Theater, 6th Floor 9:30-10:15
Sing along with a blend of popular and familiar songs of praise, thanks and celebration in this modern worship experience.
Premiere: New songs!
Site Sponsored by The John A. McAlonan Fund
The Illusion Factory
Akron-Summit County Public Library-High St. Level 8-9
Akron-Summit County Public Library-High St. Level 9:30-10:30
Enjoy The Illusion Factory's hilarious adaptation of the children's best seller, "If You Take a Mouse to School." A young boy takes a mouse to school, and the day's events tumult into hilarity and hijinks!
Premiere: First time performing, "If You Take a Mouse to School!"
Stage sponsored by The University of Akron
Site Sponsored by Acme Fresh Market
The Juke Hounds
Akron Civic Theatre: Stage 5-5:45
Akron Civic Theatre: Stage 6-6:30
Enjoy the music of The Juke Hounds as they perform some of their original tunes as well as words of the masters.
Premiere: A new song of redemption!
The New Salvino Show
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 5:30-6:30
Around Town 7-10
The audience will have the opportunity to attend a class and learn how to become a clown! After class don't miss their strolling clown magic!
Premiere: First time performing at First Night and premiering the interactive Clown School!
This Site Sponsired By: Goodyear
The Singing Angels
Greystone Hall: Ballroom, 2nd Floor 5:30-6:30
Let these young angels delight you with holiday favorites. The Singing Angels, founded in 1964, is dedicated to youth development through the highest level of artistic achievement. You won't want to miss these talented young singers.
Premiere: Summit County premiere of "Ocho Kandelikas" or Eight Candles, a Hanukkah song arranged for the Angels by Cleveland artist Lori Cahan-Simon.
Stage sponsored by National city - Now part of PNC
Site Sponsored by The John A. McAlonan Fund
The Speedbumps
UA Polsky: High Street Level 10:45-11:30
UA Polsky: High Street Level 9:30-10:30
By combining classical and modern instruments with honest songwriting, these Kent, Ohio natives create a unique sound fueled by the group’s dedication to originality! Premiere: New players, instruments and music! Stage sponsored by the R.C. Musson and Katherine M. Musson Charitable Foundation. This Site Sponsored By: FirstMerit Foundation
The University of Akron Garde Manger Club - Vegetable Carving
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 5-9
A vegetable carving demonstration by The University of Akron Garde Manger Club.
Premiere: Fresh carved fruit and vegetables
UA Steel Drum Band
UA Polsky: Main Street Level 10:30-11:15
UA Polsky: Main Street Level 8-9
UA Polsky: Main Street Level 9:30-10:15
Discover what thousands of their fans already know! The highly-acclaimed UA Steel Drum Band performs Caribbeanmusic at its best.
Premiere: New music by artistic director, Matt Dudack!
Stage sponsored by Sisler McFawn Foundation
This Site Sponsored By: FirstMerit Foundation
Wanda Hunt Band
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 1 7-7:45
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 1 8-9
An 8-piece band with horns performing old school rhythm and blues, featuring Miss Wanda Hunt!
Premiere: New songs!
Stage sponsored by The University of Akron
Site sponsored by GAR Foundation
Welcome to the Akron Art Museum & At One South High
Akron Art Museum: Corbin Gallery 5-11:30
The exhibition Welcome to the Akron Art Museum introduces the Akron Art Museum’s architecture and art through artwork by Akron artists. In the RagGonNon, At One South High, Miller South students depict their favorite works in the Akron Art Museum collection. The students took several tours of the museum with their teacher Julienne Hogarth, First Night Akron 2010 Button Artist, during the 2007-2008 school year.
Premiere: First time these two exhibitions will be on display for First Night Akron!
What a Character!
John S. Knight Center-Lobby 6-10
Preserve your memory of First Night 2010 with a caricature of yourself and/or your family. Brilliantly drawn andlaugh out loud funny drawings by Maegan and Heather of "...Escpeically Art!" Studios.
Premiere: Now including themed backgrounds with the caricature!
Supported by Meggitt Aircraft Braking Systems Corporation
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation
Zach
John S. Knight Center-Goodyear Ballroom 5-5:45
John S. Knight Center-Goodyear Ballroom 6-6:30
Named by Akron Life & Leisure as the Best Local Band, Zach is a nationally touring, soulful pop/rock band.
Premiere: Brand new material just for First Night!
Stage sponsored by The Mary S. and David C. Corbin Foundation
Site Sponsored by GAR Foundation