This year Maudslay Arts Center (MAC) will celebrate its 26th Anniversary season with a wonderful line-up of concerts. MAC favorite Rebecca Parris will open the season on Saturday, July 14, ushering in a new season with something for every musical taste from Big Band to jazz, from opera to bluegrass, from country to the Great American Songbook.
The celebration will continue with returning MAC favorites Paul Broadnax Trio, The Mystix Unplugged, The Hal McIntyre Big Band, Amanda Carr, Hillyer Festival Orchestra, Liz Frame & the Kickers, Don Campbell Band, Bobby Keyes Trio, and Donna Byrne.
New this year is Danielle Miraglia. Danielle Miraglia (murr-Ä L e a) comes armed with a strong steady thumb on an old Gibson, an infectious stomp-box rhythm, harmonica, and tunes ranging from heart-felt to socially conscious that will move both your heart and hips.
Whether you’re sitting under the stars on a moonlit evening, or lounging on a blanket on a Sunday afternoon, the Maudslay Arts Center Summer Concert Series provides the perfect setting for your entertainment pleasure.
Saturday concerts begin at 7 p.m. and include: Rebecca Parris on July 14, The Mystix Unplugged with opening act Danielle Miraglia on July 21, Amanda Carr on July 28, Hillyer Festival Orchestra on Aug. 11, Don Campbell Band on Aug. 18, and Bobby Keyes Trio on Aug. 25.
Sunday afternoon performances begin at 2 p.m. and include: Paul Broadnax Trio on July 15, The Hal McIntyre Big Band on July 22, Liz Frame & the Kickers on Aug. 12, Danielle M and The Glory Junkies on Aug. 19, and jazz vocalist Donna Byrne on Aug. 26.
MAC is a popular cultural and entertainment destination that has served tens of thousands of patrons since its founding 26 years ago in 1992. Situated in a picturesque corner of the 442-acre Maudslay State Park in Newburyport, MAC is best known for its outstanding summer concert series. However, from mid-May through mid-October, it is also a popular setting for special events such as weddings, corporate functions, educational activities, reunions, and more.
It all started back in 1985, when Nicholas J. Costello with the help of other environmentally conscious state legislators realized the purchase of the 500-plus acre Moseley estate by The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The purchase effectively saved the property from private developers waiting in the wings to buy this amazing tract of land on the Merrimack River, full of trails and gardens and home to thousands of species of plants.
People came to enjoy simple walks in the beauty and quiet of nature offering something for all our New England seasons. A children’s outdoor theater company emerged along with the perfect setting for marriage ceremonies, picnics, memorial services, and just plain enjoyment of nature’s magnificence.
In 1993, three men of vision were granted a special permit by the state Dept. of Environmental Management. Former Senator Nick Costello, former Mayor Edward Molin and E. James Gaines pooled their ideas, expertise and capital to create the Maudslay Arts Center, MAC.
From the rubble and decay of an area known as the “the farmyard” the trio designed and built a 1600 sq. ft. performance stage, the lynchpin of an area that forms a natural bowl consisting of the patio area for chairs and tables seating 200. An adjacent lawn area nestled under the trees accommodates an additional 200.
The old dairy barn was re-shingled, cupolas rebuilt, the interior gutted and a polished concrete floor laid. Modern bathrooms were housed in the former milk shed.
Since its beginning, MAC continues to operate through the effort of volunteers. All costs are offset by gate receipts, rentals for special occasions, and donations from patrons and businesses. No tax dollars are involved. As you enjoy this beautiful mini-Tanglewood, become part of our vision. MAC welcomes your financial support, your gift of time or expertise to maintain the buildings.
Maudslay Arts Center is located at 95 Curzon Mill Road, Maudslay State Park, Newburyport. The concerts are held rain or shine, moving to the indoor performance hall adjacent to the patio when weather dictates.
Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner, which can be casual or as elaborate as a gourmet meal with tablecloth and flowers and whatever suits the patron’s fancy. Delicious desserts such as seasonal cobblers, brownies, and Hodgie’s ice cream, and cold beverages may be purchased during intermission, all served by dedicated MAC volunteers, who continue to make this non-profit series happen.
Saturday performances start at 7 p.m., with gates opening at 6 p.m. Patio seating (tables and chairs) is $30. Groups of four or more are $25 each, while lawn seating (bring your own chairs or blankets) is $25. Children 12 and under are free.
Sunday performances start at 2 p.m. with gates opening at 1 p.m. General admission is $20 with open seating on the patio and lawn. Tables and chairs are provided on the patio. Special group rates may be arranged by calling 978-499-0050. Children 12 and under are free.
For the complete summer schedule, to purchase tickets online, or for further information about the performers, visit the MAC website at maudslayartscenter.org. Tickets also may be purchased at the gate or by calling 978-499-0050. There is no reserved seating. Gift certificates also are available.
The series is supported by The Newburyport Five Cents Savings Bank, dedicated MAC volunteers and patrons, and the staff of the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). The Saturday evening performances are entirely underwritten by The Newburyport Five Cents Savings Bank.
Amanda Carr from the lawn