By Lisa Carolin
Photos courtesy of Leslie Lewis
The magic of Mardi Gras music is coming to Chelsea on Saturday, April 26 when Beach Middle School is transformed into the setting for a New Orleans-style fundraising concert from 6:30-9 p.m.
There will be three stages of continuous live entertainment featuring students from the Chelsea High School and the Middle School jazz bands.
Close to 200 student musicians from grades 5 through 12 will also be performing.
“The kids really look forward to Mardi Gras,” said Rick Catherman, Chelsea band teacher and director. “They have a great time playing great music for great people.”
Mardi Gras, which is in its ninth year, is a fundraiser for the Chelsea Band programs.
“It’s our biggest fundraiser of the year,” said Leslie Lewis, Mardi Gras chairperson. “The community really comes out to support our kids and award-winning music programs.”
The evening includes a silent auction with donations from local merchants, restaurants and boosters as well as the “best seat in the house,” a seat on stage at a Chelsea band concert.
Anyone who attends the concert can make their own festive Mardi Gras mask. There are also Mardi Gras beads and band t-shirts available. Pizza and snacks will be available as well as prizes including gift certificates for Jiffy Mixes, ice cream cones and skate passes.
Tickets are available for $5 from any Chelsea band student or at the door.
