Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
WINONA LAKE – Community Arts Programs is hosting the fifth annual Java, Jive & Pie event at Rodeheaver Auditorium, 901 Park Ave., Winona Lake, on Saturday, Oct. 24.
A dance lesson will be offered at 6 p.m., followed by the musical program at 7 p.m.
This year, the program, “The Village Canteen,” will feature songs to evoke a feeling of the 1940s when swing was king and USO shows supported the troops across the globe, according to a news release from the Community Arts Programs. Attendees are invited to dress in period apparel and grace the dance floor.
This year they will welcome Matt and Cindy Smith, dance instructors of Art of Dance Warsaw. Matt and Cindy will offer dance instruction to all levels of dancers. Ticket holders are encouraged to come early for a dance lesson with Matt and Cindy to learn some basic steps and to give you the confidence to take a chance and dance.
Vocal Vibes adult vocal jazz ensemble will sing a selection of songs from the period. Wally Brath and The Village Canteen Band will also perform instrumental music from the era. In addition to live musical performances, attendees are encouraged to dress in the style of the 1940s and 1950s. During the evening, patrons will enjoy charcuterie, coffee, pie and the dance floor.
A silent auction will feature a variety of items donated by community individuals and businesses. The evening will close with a live auction of items.
Vocal Vibes Director Dr. Ardis Faber anticipates this annual event and encourages the community to attend. She said, “You won’t want to miss this evening filled with dance music, familiar ballads, up-tempo vocals from the swing era, and the easy-listening jazz from Wally Brath and The Village Canteen Band!”
Faber continued, “What better way to relax than to enjoy an evening out with friends while listening to some great jazz!”
“This is our fifth year conducting the Java, Jive & Pie fundraiser. We are growing it into a premier event,” stated Lori Widman, Community Arts Program president. “We want to fill the Rodeheaver Auditorium this year.”
Widman continued, “This will be an evening to enjoy good company, listening and dancing to live jazz music within the Winona Lake town limits, all while supporting our artistic programs; you won’t want to miss this opportunity.”
Tickets are available at https://www.capwarsaw.com/event-details/java-jive-pie-the-village-canteen and are $40 for an individual and $300 for a table of eight. Corporate sponsorships and donations are also welcome, the release states.
All proceeds benefit the Community Arts Program’s mission to provide creative, collaborative experiences that allow people in Kosciusko County to discover, develop and share their musical and artistic gifts. For more information, contact Widman at lwidman@classicartsprograms.com
