Faith ‘n begorrah, the Celtic floutist and singer Nuala Kennedy, leader of an international band of merry Irish musicians, perform this evening at 7 in the Dale Jones Courtyard of City Hall, the next to last free concert in the Summer Music Festival series.
You never would know that, however, from talking with the funloving producer of the series, Gary Mandell.
For the first time this century, Mr. Mandell has presented a lineup of first-time performers for all six Thursday nights.
How has this summer distinguished itself, especially regarding attendance?
Mr. Mandell responded instantly, as if he had been cradling his answer for days, eager to share it with the community.
“The crowds have been okay,” he said. “But I am upset with both of our presidential candidates. I have decided I am not going to vote for either.”
Ever conscious of his favorite promotion night, the deadpanning Mr. Mandell said that he will reserve his vote “for someone who will not give his (or her) acceptance speech on a Thursday night.
“The presidential candidates are worried about debates being scheduled while NFL games are being played. They should be worried about going up against the Culver City Music Festival” – which ends a month before the first debate.
As for the singer-flute player Ms. Kennedy, critics say she delivers “liltingly beautiful vocals, adventurous instrumentation, and an imaginative mix of influences.
“Although she is rooted in the Celtic music of her native Ireland and adopted homeland of Scotland, Ms. Kennedy has gained critical attention for her eclectic cross-genre work.
“She has performed and recorded Will Oldham (Bonnie (Prince) Billy), Norman Blake (Teenage Fanclub), Euros Childs (Gorky’s) and the late Canadian composer Oliver Schroer.”
