Summer of the Arts

Flash in a Pan AND Awful Purdies-LOCATION CHANGE
2025-07-11 18:30 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Chauncey Swan Ramp, 415 E Washington St,, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Graduate by Hilton Iowa City
Please note the location change: we will be in the Chauncey Swan parking ramp tonight, 415 E. Washington St., Iowa City, IA 52240.
6:15 PM: Michelle Carpenter
6:30 PM-7:15 PM: Flash in a Pan
7:30 PM-9:00 PM: Awful Purdies

About: The Iowa City-based quartet has been refining their sound and performance all across the Midwest since 2012. Founded by guitarist Blake T. Daly, the current line-up also consists of banjo player Alex Flesher, mandolinist Max Lipnick, and bassist Lee Eckles. Over the years and through hundreds of shows, Flash in a Pan has cultivated a unique tonality balancing tradition and innovation in folk and bluegrass music. Noted for their shining vocal harmonies, vibrant stage energy, and modern sensibility in composition, Flash in a Pan has become a darling to festival stages, theaters, and bar rooms alike. Their musical style is all at once familiar and refreshingly unexpected.
Iowa Public Radio recognized Flash in a Pan as artist of the month in February 2024. Flash in a Pan has shared a stage with bluegrass royalty like The Travelin’ McCourys and Sam Bush, as well as rising acts and regional favorites like Chicago Farmer, Them Coulee Boys, The Lil Smokies, Miles Over Mountains, Pert Near Sandstone, The Kitchen Dwellers, and Horseshoes & Handgrenades.
Flash in a Pan has released two studio albums, Off The Rails (2017) and Folklore (2018) (available on Spotify). Currently, the band is developing new studio releases for 2024.

Contact Information:
Web: https://www.flashinapan.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/flashinapanband/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YdH54cVKi4

Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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About: Awful Purdies is a Folk-Americana collective of five multi-instrumental women, powered by seamless harmonies, banjo, accordion, cello, guitar, mandolin, and bass. The sound is an earnest nod to traditional American music, folk, old country, bluegrass, honky tonk, and soul.
The live performance experience is intimate, containing both humor and insight. On stage, Awful Purdies actively share gratitude and support of one another and take turns stepping up as lead singers and songwriters.
Since 2006, Awful Purdies have been raising families, telling women’s stories, advocating for human rights, and engaging with their communities in Eastern Iowa.

Contact Information:
Web: http://www.awfulpurdies.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/AwfulPurdies/

Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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Swampland Jewels
2025-07-12 18:30 - 21:00 | Riverfront Crossings Park, 1001 S. Clinton St., Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Accurate Automotive and McDonald Optical

About: Ready for a road trip? Let The Swampland Jewels take you on a trip down old Highway 61, and across Route 90, through Southwest Louisiana and into East Texas. Playing a mix of original, Gulf Coast oldies, traditional Cajun/Creole, and TexMex tunes, The Swampland Jewels are sure to get you on your feet. If you aren’t a fan of the accordion, you will be after catching this set!
The Swampland Jewels consist of these veteran Iowa City area musicians: Nate Basinger, Forrest Heusinkveld, Eddie McKinley, Randall Davis, Marty Christensen.

Contact Information:
Web: https://theswamplandjewels.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/theswamplandjewels
https://www.instagram.com/theswamplandjewels
https://www.youtube.com/@theswamplandjewels4394

Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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Eat for the Arts at Hyatt Regency Coralville
2025-07-15 06:30 - 21:00 | Hyatt Regency, 300 E. 9th St., Coralville, IA, 52241, United States
Join us for Eat for the Arts at the Hyatt Regency / Watermill Kitchen + Bar and enjoy a delicious meal in a beautiful setting — all while supporting the arts in our community!
10% of total sales on the day will go toward Summer of the Arts and our mission to bring free, family-friendly programming to the Iowa City area.
Make a reservation, stop in with friends, or enjoy a relaxing lunch break — every meal makes a difference!

Saul Lubaroff & Andy Parrott
2025-07-16 18:30 - 20:00 | Willow Creek Park, 1117 Teg Dr, Iowa City, IA, 52246, United States
Sponsored by ImOn Communications

About: Saul Lubaroff and Andy Parrott have a combined 85 yrs of playing music. Friends since high school, Saul and Andy have performed as a duo, Trio and Quartet for over 30 yrs. Expect a wonderful musical stew of pop standards, Bossa Nova grooves and timeless standards.

Contact Information:
Web: http://www.sauljazz.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/sauljazz

Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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Diane Road AND The Recliners
2025-07-18 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Herteen & Stocker Jewelers
6:30 PM-7:15 PM: Diane Road
7:30 PM-9:00 PM: The Recliners

About: Diane Road embraces a broad musical spectrum, including jazz and blues standards, as well as pop, rock, folk, country and soul from the 60’s through today. With fresh takes on classics and a gravitation toward the deeper tracks, they set out to hear the music you don’t always get to hear enough of.
Formed in 2023, the band is comprised of accomplished professionals with decades of experience, performing across the US and abroad.
Meghan McDonough, lead vocals: Public Property, The Fez; Chris Dimond guitar: Iowa City guitarist with local acts Ben Schmidt, The Fox Hill Troubadours, Zebra Maneuver, Silt Creek, The Crazy Critters and Kerak. Chris teaches private guitar lessons out of his home studio. (chrisdimondguitarlessons.com) Dave Sieveking, bass: Nashville and Twin Cities touring and sessions; Brian Cooper, drums for Dave Zollo, Brian Johannesen, Black Angel Blues Jam House Band and he also teaches drums.

Contact Information:
Web:
Other links:
Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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About: The Recliners is an 8-member ensemble and plays a wide variety of music shaped by the interests and talents of each individual member. This longstanding group of Iowa City denizens have played together for nearly 35 years. Their music ranges from classic ’60s and ’70s rock to newly released songs by contemporary singer-songwriters, and includes original tunes, American folk music, Irish melodies, bluegrass, blues, ballads, and mostly, good old-fashioned rock and roll.

Contact Information:
Web:
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/The-Recliners-of-Iowa-City-350253899510/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MaV8dLXj6CQ

Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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RESCHEDULED TO 7/20: The Princess Bride
2025-07-20 21:00 - 23:00 | Iowa City Municipal Airport, 1801 Riverside Dr., Iowa City, 52246
Note: this event has been rescheduled to Sunday, July 20!
Sponsored by Z102.9
Runtime: 1hr 38 min
Rating: PG
Starring: Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, Billy Crystal
Plot: A fairytale adventure about a beautiful young woman and her one true love. He must find her after a long separation and save her. They must battle the evils of the mythical kingdom of Florin to be reunited with each other. Based on the William Goldman novel “The Princess Bride” which earned its own loyal audience.
Watch the trailer HERE!
*Start times are an estimation based on sunset and are subject to change

RESCHEDULED to 9/3: Zebra Maneuver
2025-07-23 18:30 - 20:00 | James Alan McPherson Park, 1858 7th Ave Ct, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Due to today’s heat, this event has been rescheduled to September 3.
Sponsored by Martin Construction

About: Zebra Maneuver is an Iowa City-based trio that defies musical boundaries with their innovative covers of tunes from many genres—jazz, country, rock, and more. Drawing inspiration from the natural phenomenon of a “dazzle,” in which a group of zebras confounds predators with mesmerizing patterns, the band’s name reflects their penchant for transforming familiar songs into unexpected experiences. Members are Chris Dimond on guitars, Oriana Ross on violin and vocals, and Jennifer Horn-Frasier on bass guitar, flute, and vocals.

Contact Information:
Web:
Other links:
Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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Ben Schmidt Band AND Whiskey Fund
2025-07-25 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Z’Mariks Noodle Cafe
6:30 PM-7:35 PM: Ben Schmidt Band
7:55 PM-9:00 PM: Whiskey Fund

About: Ben Schmidt Band: Singer/ Songwriter Ben Schmidt steps out of the “coffee house” and into the “barrel house.” With the help of the Power Plant Rhythm Section–Matt Bernemann (drums), and Rich Wagor (bass); and featuring Sean Seaton on keys, this quartet celebrates everything from blues, funky soul, to outlaw country, folk and rock and roll. Digging in with a mix of original tunes and old favorites, the band likes to “keep it greasy”, to stretch out and reimagine arrangements on the fly. The veteran core of the BSB is linked to many of the regions’ finest players, and guest appearances and cross-combinations are frequent – adding to the easy going, playful dynamic of the live experience.

Contact Information:
Web:
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Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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About: Born from a spontaneous late-night jam session in the heart of Iowa City, The Whiskey Fund is more than just a band—it’s an experience. When a last-minute gig opportunity arose and no established bands were available, a group of musicians from Eastern Iowa’s finest acts seized the moment. In that instance, The Whiskey Fund was born.
The band is comprised of seasoned veterans from beloved local groups such as Shade of Blue, the Bernemann Brothers Band, the Ben Schmidt Band, The Fez, Fox Hill Troubadours, The Tanya English Band, and the Nic Arp Band. The lineup includes Dave Rosazza (guitar/vocals), Ben Schmidt (guitar/vocals), Sean Seaton (keyboard/vocals), Bill Shannon (bass) and Jon Edwards (drums).
The Whiskey Fund will take you on a thrill ride through genres, reflecting the band’s belief that great music knows no boundaries. With a repertoire that includes classics and deep cuts from the likes of Stevie Wonder, Willie Nelson, Bob Marley, The Band, Bill Withers, Bob Dylan, Steely Dan, John Prine, Sly & The Family Stone, Robert Cray, Tom Waits, Wilson Pickett, Tom Petty, and many more, The Whiskey Fund promises an eclectic mix that will get you out of your seat and onto the dance floor.
Raise a glass to The Whiskey Fund, and join them for an unforgettable journey of musical exploration, where every show is unique, every note is sincere, and every moment is a testament to the power of live music.

Contact Information:
Web: https://whiskeyfundmusic.com/
Other links:
Summer of the Arts Festivals:
None yet!

Orquesta Alto Maiz
2025-07-26 18:30 - 21:00 | Riverfront Crossings Park, 1001 S. Clinton St., Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Keystone IT

About: Orquesta Alto Maiz is something of a musical enigma. It is a popular Latin-jazz-dance band made up of musicians now living in the “heartland” of America. The Latin tinged music they perform, usually found in the clubs of New York City, L.A. or Miami, has secured them a reputation as one of the hottest bands in the Midwest.
This strange mix of “salsa” and tall corn works because of the years of musical experience the band members bring to the group, and because of their love for the music. Alto Maiz has been performing regionally and internationally since 1986 and has steadily built a strong base of Latin music fans and supporters wherever they’ve played.
Orquesta Alto Maiz plays a wide range of Latin musical styles, including merengue, samba, cha-cha-cha, salsa, calypso, and boleros. In addition to Latin-jazz standards by Tito Puente, Ray Barretto, Eddie Palmieri, Ismael Miranda, Mario Bauzá, Poncho Sanchez and others, the band has produced many successful original compositions as well.
Alto Maiz has recorded much of this music, producing two cassette tapes; Puerto de Tierra (1989), Casa del Fuego (1991), and eight compact discs; Dancing in the Corn (1993), Azucar Caliente (1995), Década (1997), Live at Montreux (1999), Añejando (2001), Ritmo en Azul (2004), Veinte (2006) and Live On Fire (2008).
Regardless of age group or musical preferences, Orquesta Alto Maiz strikes a common chord with its audience. Once exposed to this vibrant, pulsating music, people find it so irresistible that their feet won’t keep still!
Audience participation (dancing, singing) is enthusiastically encouraged. And remember, dancing is good for you, and dancing like no one is watching is even better! Once you experience them you will never forget them, Orquesta Alto Maiz, “The Salsa Band.”

Contact Information:
Web: https://www.salsaband.band/
Other links:
Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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Silt Creek
2025-07-30 18:30 - 20:00 | Terry Trueblood Recreation Area, 579 McCollister Blvd, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Navigate Homes

About: Silt is highly fertile soil formed by the repeated collision of rocks, and sediment found in flowing water or beneath glaciers. It is a great place to grow things. Silt Creek is a trio comprised of three diverse musicians who share a love of song and have been crossing paths for the last 25 years. Ryan Bernemann, Chris Dimond, and Ben Schmidt have been performing in various local and regional bands and join forces to bring a unique and refined sound rich with vocal harmony, playful lead playing, and stunning songcraft. Their sound comes from a broad palette of training and influences from singer/songwriter to Alt-Country to Blues, Jazz and Soul music. Live shows include a mix of original compositions, collaborations, and re-envisioned covers.
Personnel: Ryan Bernemann – Bass / Vocals
Chris Dimond – Guitar
Ben Schmidt – Guitar / Vocals

Contact Information:
Web:
Other links:
Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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Dandelion Stompers
2025-08-01 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Graduate by Hilton Iowa City

About: For more than a decade, the Dandelion Stompers have brought savory horns, spicy vocals and red hot rhythms to eastern Iowa. With their second album under their belt they are ready for ten more years of singing, dancing, and stomping!
Lineup: Chris Clark-bar sax; Tim Crumley-percussion; Katie Greenstein-tpt; Brandi Janssen-bass; Marc Janssen-gtr; Katie Roche-voc; Suzanne Smith-cl; Devin van Holsteijn-alto sax

Contact Information:
Web: https://dandelionstompers.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/dandelionstompers/
https://www.instagram.com/dandelionstompers

Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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Natty Nation
2025-08-02 18:30 - 21:00 | Riverfront Crossings Park, 1001 S. Clinton St., Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Urban Acres Real Estate – Natasha Wendt, Realtor and Hawkeye Title and Settlement

About: For three decades, Natty Nation has been a cornerstone of the Midwest reggae music scene, spreading messages of unity, love, and social justice through their powerful sound and unwavering commitment to their roots. Formed in 1995 in Madison, Wisconsin, Natty Nation has become a beloved force in the global reggae community, blending traditional roots reggae with elements of dub, rock, and hip-hop to create a signature style that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Led by the charismatic and visionary frontman JAH Boogie, Natty Nation has consistently used their music as a platform for activism and empowerment. Their lyrics, infused with conscious themes and spiritual depth, reflect their dedication to uplifting humanity and addressing the challenges of our time. Over the years, the band has released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including “The Journey Has Just Begun…” (1996) and “Divine Spark” (2016), each showcasing their evolution as artists and their ability to stay true to the heart of reggae while pushing creative boundaries.

Contact Information:
Web: https://www.nattynation.com/
Other links:
Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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Steve Grismore Trio
2025-08-06 18:30 - 20:00 | City Park, 200 E. Park Rd, Iowa City, IA, 52246, United States
Sponsored by Stuart Carmen & Associates
Note: this performance will be on the Riverside Festival Stage. If you know where the Shakespeare plays take place, then you know where this performance will take place!

About: This trio has been together for several years now and really focuses on music by my favorite guitarists including John Scofield, Pat Metheny, Bill Frisell, John Abercrombie, Pat Martino and more. We also play jazz standards and a few original tunes of mine. We have played clubs all over the state and several special events such as KCCK’s Jazz Under the Stars, the Iowa City Jazz Festival, the Quad Cites Polyrhythms 3rd Sunday Jazz, and many more….
This rendition of the Steve Grismore Trio features Drew Morton on bass and Justin LeDuc on drums and cymbals.

Contact Information:
Web: https://www.gizmojazz.com/
Other links:
Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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Eat for the Arts: Marco’s Grilled Cheese and George’s Best Gyros
2025-08-07 17:00 - 2025-08-08 02:00 | Marco’s Grilled Cheese, 117 N. Linn St., Iowa City, IA, 52245, United States
We’re teaming up with two of downtown Iowa City’s favorite quick-bite spots for a delicious night of giving back! Join us on Thursday, August 7 at Marco’s Grilled Cheese and George’s Best Gyros for Eat for the Arts — where 10% of all sales that night will be donated to Summer of the Arts and our mission to provide free, family-friendly arts programming to the community.
Whether you’re craving Marco’s famous grilled cheese sandwiches, tacos, and gyros — or George’s classic Greek fare in their cozy downtown brick-and-mortar — every bite helps support the arts in Iowa City.
Dine in or order to go — either way, you’re making a difference!

Carson Parker Trio AND Kiersten Conway Quartet
2025-08-08 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by West Music
6:30 PM-7:15 PM: Carson Parker Trio
7:30 PM-9:00 PM: Kiersten Conway Quartet

About: Carson Parker, a native of Des Moines, Iowa, has emerged as one of the Midwest’s most captivating young jazz pianists, blending a mix of jazz, blues, and funk into his distinctive style. Carson’s talent has taken him to some of the region’s greatest venues, including Chicago’s Fulton Street Collective, Clara Chicago, Opus Concert Cafe, Des Moines’ Noce Jazz Club, and the Iowa City Jazz Festival. Carson is grateful to be influenced by many teachers and mentors including Nate Sparks, Nick Rueckert, and Dr. William Menefield. His versatility as both a solo artist and collaborator has allowed him to work with musicians including trumpeter Sean Jones, drummer Isaiah Spencer, trumpeter Benny Bennack III, vocalist Max Wellman, drummer Jerome Gillespie II, and singer-songwriter James Tutson. In 2023, Carson achieved the honor as the sole pianist of the National Jazz Band of America. Now an established professional, he continues to play for audiences across the Midwest, both with his ensemble and as a sought-after sideman.

Contact Information:
Web:
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Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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About: Kiersten Conway is a dynamic songwriter, contemporary jazz vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist known for her inventive interpretations of jazz standards and compelling original compositions. A native of Iowa City, she has performed at top venues including Noce Jazz Club and Hoyt Sherman Place in Des Moines, and has been featured at the Iowa City Jazz Festival.
In 2024, Kiersten brought her artistry to the Rochester International Jazz Festival, sharing the stage with Laila Biali, and also performed at the prestigious Jazz Education Network Conference in New Orleans. A three-time recipient of the DownBeat Student Music Awards (2023–2025), she was recognized as a Vocal Jazz Soloist, for her original composition “Black-Eyed Susan,” and as an Outstanding Soloist in a Large Vocal Jazz Ensemble.

Contact Information:
Web: https://www.kierstenconway.com/
Other links:
Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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Despicable Me 4
2025-08-09 20:45 - 22:00 | Iowa City Municipal Airport, 1801 Riverside Dr., Iowa City, 52246
Sponsored by Sobaski Abbey Carpet & Floor
Runtime: 1hr 34 min
Rating: PG
Starring: Sofía Vergara, Joey King, Will Ferrell
Plot: Gru welcomes a new member to the family, Gru Jr., who’s intent on tormenting his dad. However, their peaceful existence soon comes crashing down when criminal mastermind Maxime Le Mal escapes from prison and vows revenge against Gru.
Watch the trailer HERE!
*Start times are an estimation based on sunset and are subject to change

Nicole Dean
2025-08-13 18:30 - 20:00 | Cardigan Park, 500 Huntington Dr, Iowa City, IA, 52245, United States
Sponsored by ImOn Communications

About: Nicole was born and raised in the south where her love for music was cultivated. That love has deepened and widened as she’s made her way through the world to her current home in the Midwest. From nostalgia-fueled 90’s country to Brandi Carlile to writing original songs, music has always been a vivid source of human connection for her.

Contact Information:
Web:
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Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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Big Begonias AND The Feralings
2025-08-15 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Old Capitol Screen Printers
6:30 PM-7:15 PM: Big Begonias
7:30 PM-9:00 PM: The Feralings

About: Big Begonias took root in 2020 and have been blooming since. Dedicated to creating transcendental folk and honky tonk sounds, the 4-piece band features original music by Gabrielle Kouri and George Spielbauer. Gabrielle, a founding member of Iowa City’s beloved Awful Purdies, plays guitar, banjo, and sings, while George (Cedar County Cobras) plays various guitars. Dave “Chief” Lumberg (Shoe Money, Mayflies) commands the bass, and drummer Dan Miller keeps the beat alive. Big Begonias released their first studio album In Bloom in 2024.

Contact Information:
Web: https://bigbegonias.bandcamp.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/BigBegonias

Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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About: Ralph Waldo Emerson. Diesel. Morning glories. AM radio. These all influence Iowa acoustic roots trio The Feralings, as do the gently sloping landscapes of the Iowa countryside and the sound of tornado sirens squealing and the rumble of trucks on I-80. Their songwriting reflects friendship, imperfection, magic, and a big love for storytelling, as well as the folk, bluegrass, jazz, alt-country, Americana, gospel, and roots that form each member’s musical DNA.
Their debut EP, titled simply “The Feralings”, was recorded over the course of several years, as the band navigated parenthood, life changes, and personal struggles, and it showcases the power and intimacy of the band’s enthralling live performances. The band is currently in the process of recording their long-awaited follow-up album.

Contact Information:
Web: http://www.theferalings.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/TheFeralings

Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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James Tutson & the Rollback
2025-08-16 18:30 - 21:00 | Riverfront Crossings Park, 1001 S. Clinton St., Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Urban Acres Realtor Shaner Magalhães and State Farm Agent Nanci Kohl

About: Iowa City’s James Tutson and his 5 siblings were the entirety of the church choir growing up. He was raised singing southern gospel every Sunday in a tiny chapel in front of a 10 person congregation. This heritage of soul music permeates his vocal styles and anchors his songwriting even as he crafts his current work telling stories of the modern world and his life journey. He is known for emotive/”raw” vocal performances, tight musical arrangements, and resonant songwriting, which has been described as a “gift for exploring the intersection between joy and sorrow”. James’ career has taken him to local backyards, dive bars, theater stages, music festivals, and NBC’s The Voice. James was named one of the 2023 National Endowment for the Arts, Iowa Fellows and has had the privilege of performing with great artists like Lake Street Dive, The Dip, The War and Treaty, Marc Broussard, Joanna Connor, Five for Fighting and more. He has recorded seven studio albums including his most recent “Fool For You”

Contact Information:
Web: http://www.jamestutson.com/
Other links: https://www.instagram.com/jtutson/
https://www.instagram.com/jamestutsonandtherollback/

Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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Eat for the Arts at Iowa Athletic Club
2025-08-20 11:00 - 21:00 | Iowa Athletic Club, 200 E 9th St Suite 205, Coralville, Coralville, 52241, United States
Join us for Eat for the Arts at Iowa Athletic Club and support local arts while enjoying scratch-made tavern pizzas, pub favorites, and craft cocktails at the longest bar in Iowa!
Whether you’re craving their neighborhood pub favorites, signature pizzas, or ice cold beers, 10% of total sales on August 20, will be donated to the Summer of the Arts, helping us provide free, family-friendly arts programming all summer long.
Great food, nostalgic cocktails, and a chance to give back to your community. The Game is Meant to be Fun – and so is supporting local arts!

The Feralings
2025-08-20 18:30 - 20:00 | Emma J. Harvat Square, 904 Walker Cir, Iowa City, IA, 52245, United States
Sponsored by the Peninsula Neighborhood

About: Ralph Waldo Emerson. Diesel. Morning glories. AM radio. These all influence Iowa acoustic roots trio The Feralings, as do the gently sloping landscapes of the Iowa countryside and the sound of tornado sirens squealing and the rumble of trucks on I-80. Their songwriting reflects friendship, imperfection, magic, and a big love for storytelling, as well as the folk, bluegrass, jazz, alt-country, Americana, gospel, and roots that form each member’s musical DNA.
Their debut EP, titled simply “The Feralings”, was recorded over the course of several years, as the band navigated parenthood, life changes, and personal struggles, and it showcases the power and intimacy of the band’s enthralling live performances. The band is currently in the process of recording their long-awaited follow-up album.

Contact Information:
Web: http://www.theferalings.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/TheFeralings

Summer of the Arts Festivals:
None yet!

Dodge Street Duo AND Hard Luck & the Troubles
2025-08-22 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by KCJJ
6:30 PM-7:15 PM: Dodge Street Duo
7:30 PM-9:00 PM: Hard Luck & the Troubles

About: Dodge St. Duo plays a mixture of bluegrass, country, old-time, and original material. Max Lipnick and Alex Flesher showcase 2-part vocal harmonies and fresh takes on new and original instrumental tunes on mandolin, banjo, and guitar.

Contact Information:
Web:
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Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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About: Hailing from Iowa City, Hard Luck & the Troubles delivers a potent blend of Americana, rooted in blues, gospel, and classic country, with a healthy dose of Grateful Dead spirit. Fronted by Roland Racevskis on piano and vocals, anchored by Billy Valencia on bass, Brian Cooper on drums, and Ryan Phalen on guitar.
Influenced by whiskey-soaked nights and the realities of life, Hard Luck in the Troubles bring a raw, authentic energy to their music and is known for their passionate live performances. They are poised to release their self-titled debut album, Hard Luck & the Troubles.

Contact Information:
Web:
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Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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Ioannis Alexakis and friends
2025-08-27 18:30 - 20:00 | Chauncey Swan Park, 405 E Washington St, Iowa City, IA, 52240
Sponsored by Martin Construction

About: Ion’s music is an inward reflection focusing in on resilience of the worker. Enduring the working class hardships through the Guthrie lens over a sonic guttural rawness that hones in on the prospect of our power as the people to maintain vigilance and hope. As a solo artist he has shared the stage with the artists such as GZA, Blackalicious, Black Moth Super Rainbow, Makaya McCraven, Dessa, Wyclef Jean & Black Milk.

Contact Information:
Web: https://linktr.ee/signalflowproducts
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/SignalFlowProducts/

Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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Jumbies
2025-08-29 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by New Pioneer Food Co-op

About: Jumbies deliver a fusion of Caribbean, funk, and Afro-Cuban rhythms in a high-energy, spirit-raising, dance-oriented performance. Established in 2001 and based in Iowa City with roots in the Ames/Des Moines area, this quintet blends danceable and breezy tropical sounds, perfect for sunny days and hot nights. While we do covers by artists such as Bob Marley, Jimmy Buffet, and Harry Belafonte as well, we play mostly original music from our full-length releases and are always creating something new. Most of our elements are similar to other bands, but we uniquely feature steel pan as the lead instrument and love percussion! It’s a unique sound for Iowa, and a really good time!

Contact Information:
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Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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Fundraiser: Roots & Rhythms: 20 Trees for 20 Years with Summer of the Arts
2025-08-30 - 2026-08-31 | IA
As we celebrate our 20th year as a nonprofit, we’re reflecting on the success of our newest program, Rhythms at Riverfront Crossings. Over the past two seasons, we’ve heard from many of you that more shade would make this beautiful park even better. Now, you have an opportunity to make a lasting impact on Riverfront Crossings Park, and help ensure this event continues for years to come.
Summer of the Arts is partnering with the City of Iowa City, Iowa City Parks & Recreation, and Sustainable Landscape Solutions to plant 20 new trees at Riverfront Crossings Park in the spring of 2026. These trees will provide natural beauty and much-needed shade for the Rhythms at Riverfront Crossings concert season and beyond.
Click/tap HERE to view the informational brochure and pledge form.
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The Beaker Brothers
2025-08-30 18:30 - 21:00 | Riverfront Crossings Park, 1001 S. Clinton St., Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by On With Life

About: For over 15 years the Beaker Brothers Band has been paying homage to the original Jam Bands of the late 60’s and early 70’s – the Allman Brothers, Clapton, Santana, Little Feat, Rolling Stones, James Gang, the Doors, Steely Dan, Neil Young, CCR, and many more. The Beaker Brothers Band isn’t a nostalgia act or a tribute show. We’re playing music that has been in our heads and our hearts since we first heard it. This is the music we played in our youth. And we’re as awed by it today as then. We’re thrilled that we’re not alone.

Contact Information:
Web: https://beakerbrothersband.com/
Other links:
Summer of the Arts Festivals:
None yet!

Eat for the Arts at 30 HOP in Coralville
2025-09-03 11:00 - 23:00 | 30 HOP, 900 E 2nd Ave, Coralville, IA, 52241, United States
Join us at 30 Hop on September 3 for Eat for the Arts!
10% of all sales that day will be donated to Summer of the Arts and our mission to provide free, family-friendly arts programming to the community.
Enjoy American bites with an Asian fusion twist, craft beers, and the unique industrial atmosphere with rooftop patio at this Coralville favorite. Every bite and sip helps support the arts in Iowa City!

Zebra Maneuver
2025-09-03 18:30 - 20:00 | James Alan McPherson Park, 1858 7th Ave Ct, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Martin Construction

About: Zebra Maneuver is an Iowa City-based trio that defies musical boundaries with their innovative covers of tunes from many genres—jazz, country, rock, and more. Drawing inspiration from the natural phenomenon of a “dazzle,” in which a group of zebras confounds predators with mesmerizing patterns, the band’s name reflects their penchant for transforming familiar songs into unexpected experiences. Members are Chris Dimond on guitars, Oriana Ross on violin and vocals, and Jennifer Horn-Frasier on bass guitar, flute, and vocals.

Contact Information:
Web:
Other links:
Summer of the Arts Festivals:
None yet!

Lou Sherry AND Shining Realm
2025-09-05 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Luna’s Tacos
6:30 PM-7:35 PM: Lou Sherry
7:55 PM-9:00 PM: Shining Realm

About: Lou Sherry: Iowa City Doom Lounge.

Contact Information:
Web: https://dentalrecordsic.bandcamp.com/album/lou-sherry-more-now-than-then
Other links:
Summer of the Arts Festivals:
None yet!

About: Shining Realm is a psychedelic rock/folk collective based in Iowa City. Formed in 2019, the current lineup features members of Maul of America, Daisyglue, Commanders and the Boo-Hoos. Their music is a blend of 70’s era psych and Kraut rock with Eastern and Afro Beat influences. Their second album, Talismandala, will be released on May 12th, 2025.

Contact Information:
Web:
Other links:
Summer of the Arts Festivals:
None yet!

Alicia Monee and Family
2025-09-12 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Iowa City Area Association of Realtors

About: Alicia Monēē is a powerhouse vocalist from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, known for her soulful sound and dynamic stage presence. Inspired by legends like Erykah Badu and Jennifer Hudson, she has captivated audiences nationwide, including as a finalist on HBO Max’s *Second Chance Stage*.
A versatile performer, Alicia has earned acclaim in theater for roles like Effie in *Dreamgirls* and Shug Avery in *The Color Purple*. She’s also graced prestigious stages, including the Danny Awards in NYC and Filoli Mansion in California.
Currently working on her debut album, set for release in mid-2025, Alicia Monēē continues to shine as a rising star in R&B and soul.

Contact Information:
Web:
Other links:
Summer of the Arts Festivals:
None yet!
