Every summer since 1996, Chandler Center for the Arts has presented lineups of unique and talented performers for its main stage as a part of the Annual Free Summer Concert Series sponsored by Intel.
Bringing diverse performances to appeal to a community that is just as diverse has long been a mission of the Center. Also part of its mission is making the arts available to everyone; high-quality free performances are just one way of making the arts in Chandler more accessible.
Cynde Cerf, the Center’s Marketing and Communications Coordinator, said free programs bring in a diverse crowd of patrons, representative of Chandler’s population as a whole. The hope is to introduce new people to the Center and everything it has to offer.
“Going to an arts program or concert can be intimidating if you’ve never been,” Cerf said. “You might not know what to wear or how to act. Our hope is that these programs make the arts more approachable for those who have never been here.”
The Summer Concert Series is open to the entire community. And, attendees come from Chandler and beyond to experience a performance.
Intel has been a dedicated sponsor to the Free Summer Concert Series since its inception in 1996. Intel partnered with the Center as a way to show its appreciation and support for keeping the arts alive, enriching the community..
It also helps that, thanks to the Center, living in the Valley during the hot summer months doesn’t mean having to miss out on the summer concert experience that many may have on the coast or midwest.
“We’re in the desert, so we can’t have summer shows outside like they do in Millenium Park in Chicago,” Cerf said.
To make up for the lack of cool evenings, the Center does its best to create a fun, summertime atmosphere to keep the spirit alive. Each show will include pre-show entertainment and activities in the lobby, as well as a featured specialty cocktail to match the show’s theme.
The free series includes four all-ages shows in total, scheduled to take place on Friday nights in August at 7:30 p.m. Doors open one-hour prior to showtime. Seating is first-come, first-served.
In addition to the headlining acts, attendees can look forward to experiencing the Center’s new CODA sound system, installed last August. At the time it was implemented, the Chandler Center for the Arts was the first venue in the U.S. to have the brand new system. It was so new the sound director of the original Broadway production of Hamilton visited the Center to help set it up.
The Summer Concert Line-Up
Caro Pierotto
Friday, Aug. 2, 2019
7:30 p.m.
Kicking off the series is Caro Pierotto, a native Brazilian with sensual, playful vocals that go straight to the heart, blending Boss Nova and contemporary World Music. She performs with her talented band for a night of catchy melodies and contagious beats that will transport you to the smoky cafes of São Paulo. The night’s featured drink is Sangria.
Wynchester
Friday, Aug. 9, 2019
7:30 p.m.
Mike Bray and John Konesky are a boot-tappin’ duo sure to bring Chandler a tongue-in-cheek evening full of country music and classic rock. From classic up-tempo barn-burnin’, truck-drivin’ songs to "tear in your beer” ballads, Wynchester leaves no stone unturned. The featured drink will be Jack and Ginger.
Elektric Voodoo
Friday, Aug. 16, 2019
7:30 p.m.
Described as ‘world beat rock and roll,” Elektric Voodoo is sure to be an unforgettable summer bash. This 7-piece ensemble from Southern California brings master musicians on saxophones, congas, bass and guitar. Elektric Voodoo blends Afro-beat with Latin, rock & roll, jazz and blues to cast a hypnotic spell. The featured drink will be Hurricanes.
Jácome Flamenco presents SOL y LUNA
Friday, Aug. 23, 2019
7:30 p.m.
Jácome Flamenco's new production SOL y LUNA takes audiences on a sultry, exotic journey as flamenco dancers move over the sounds of the guitar, singing and percussion. Witness pure artistry through the interplay of flowing dresses, sharp staccato rhythms, lively melodies and deep, mournful song.The featured drink will be Margaritas.
Explore the Center’s 30th Anniversary Season
Celebrating 30 years this year, Chandler Center for the Arts is embracing its past and its future as an engaging, welcoming, innovative space that serves a diverse and growing community. View calendar and ticket information for the Center’s anniversary season from the Chandler Center for the Arts.