Experience the heartbeat of local talent and community spirit at Empire Alive 2024!
Join us on Saturday, June 15, for an electrifying evening dedicated to supporting the Empire Arts Center. As we strive to ensure the comfort and enjoyment of our patrons, Empire Alive promises not only a showcase of stellar musical acts but also an opportunity to contribute to the upgrade of our aging heating and air conditioning systems.
From the stirring rendition of the National Anthem by the talented Lacey Schuler to the dynamic performances of four outstanding area bands, immerse yourself in an unforgettable night of music and community.
Here's what's in store:
5:00pm: Doors open.
5:55pm: National Anthem by Lacey Schuler
6:00pm – 6:40pm: Cheron
6:50pm – 7:35pm: Jazz on Tap
7:50pm – 8:40pm: Local Blend
9:00pm – 10:00pm: The Dank
Unable to attend? Please consider making a donation to Empire Alive 2024. Your donation will enable the Empire to continue to serve our community and the surrounding area.
MEET THE ACTS
The Dank
Based out of Grand Forks, North Dakota, The Dank is a six-piece, groove driven, funk and rock-n-roll band that formed in 2017. High energy live music is their specialty and with multiple singers/songwriters pulling inspiration from genres from every corner of the musical realm, their music has something for everyone. Playing a combination of original music and cover songs, their live performances have made them a local favorite in North Dakota and surrounding areas.
Cheron
A jazz, soul, and rock band, Cheron is no stranger to the Empire’s main stage. Having performed and recorded their upcoming debut album all at the Empire, and appearing across various venues both locally and regionally, the members of Cheron invite audiences into their world with a mixture of easy-going and fast-paced songs.
Jazz on Tap
Jazz On Tap has been providing this sense of ecstasy for over two decades to the Red River Valley Area, gracing the small community with their unique blend of soulful jazz, tight funk and vintage Rock of the highest caliber. The manifest of three brilliant musicians, Jazz on Tap has been proving to the world that you don't have to come from a big city to be amazing performers. Friendship, respect, and pure fun culminate into a solid energy that allows every listener to let their hair down and relax through the release in which music provides.
Local Blend
Local Blend is a brand new project put together just for this event. Born from the idea of creating a Brazilian Jazz orchestra in Grand Forks, this group is sure to get everyone into the groove. The group was formed by Brian and Selmara Rydell with 10+ members and features multiple drummers/percussionists, guitar, bass, keyboards, horns and vocals. You won't want to miss this exciting new project for a taste of the musical styles of Brazil.
Lacey Schuler
You’ve heard her many times singing the National Anthem at the Ralph Engelstad Arena - Lacey Schuler has an eclectic sound ranging from choral, opera, country, pop, and musical theater. Growing up in Bemidji, MN she was very active in their music programs which sparked her interest in performing. Lacey went to Bemidji State University where she attained a bachelor’s degree in vocal performance. She was likely seen singing with the Bemidji Choir touring the region, overseas to Germany and Czech Republic, or singing for Opera Night held at Ruttger’s on Lake Bemidji. Since moving to Grand Forks in 2011 she has collaborated with the REA and Alerus Center for the National Anthem vocals at many events. Singing for the men’s hockey program brought Lacey to well renowned venues like Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, TN and T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, NV. She was drawn back to her choral music roots when she joined the Grand Forks Master Chorale performing with them and also holding a spot on their Board of Directors. With no plans of leaving Grand Forks anytime soon she remains passionate about sharing quality music of all kinds with the community.
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?
Music by four talented bands, all with local and regional artists.
A cash bar, serving your favorite drinks.
A food truck outside in the Empire’s alleyway.
A night full of community, celebration, and fundraising to ensure the Empire can continue to provide arts and culture for another 25 years!
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:
Empire Alive is made possible by the following sponsors.
Rydell Buick GMC - Platinum Sponsor
Leighton Media - Silver Sponsor
iHeart Media - Silver Sponsor
Alerus Financial - Bronze Sponsor
Simonson Station Stores - Bronze Sponsor
Gilleland Chevrolet St Cloud - Bronze Sponsor
Team Auto Center - Bronze Sponsor
Grand Forks Subaru - Copper Sponsor
THANK YOU TO EMPIRE ALIVE DONORS:
Casey & Debra Johnson
The Rydell Company
Tresa Labenutz (Flagstaff Nissan Subaru)
David Roen
Greg Owens