Anyway you look at it, last Sunday's (February 22) Rockin' for Kids benefit show was a huge success--whether it's turnout (huge), money raised (lots and lots) and fun for kids (couldn't keep 'em from dancing,)
The Roo Mates, the house band from Club Kid'Doo, got the show off to a rousing start with an energetic set that had the little ones popping up out of their seats and taking over the dance floor in front of the stage. Next, the Momclair Singfunny Orchestra--all family members--entertained with their sweet, funny songs.
Then Mama Doni and her band came on and played a wild, raucous set that got the kids following her around the auditorium and up on stage, pied piper-like. And just when she had them tuckered out from all that dancing and jumping, Mr. Ray came on and wound the whole show down to a wonderful close with his silly originals and gentle sing-alongs.
It was especially great that so many young kids (most were 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) got a chance to see not just the grownup performers, but the other kids who also sang, including the many young Roo Mates, kindergartner Ella with the Momclair Singfunny Orchestra, and Mr. Ray's two back-up singers. They all provided an inspiration to the future pop stars in the audience. For parents, it was nice to find a safe, secure, enclosed place where their kids could dance, clown around and hear great music.
The event raised a significant amount of money for Parents Who Rock's latest effort, the partnership with Little Kids Rock, a national music education organization based in Montclair. Together the two groups are working to raise $50,000 to help fund more music education in the Montclair public schools. The show advanced us toward our goal.
A splendid time was had by all! Just take a look at these photos. We'll be posting more photos later on this week.
And if you're looking for another great show for kids, make sure you get tickets for Dan Zanes and friends this weekend (March 1) at the Wellmont Theater in Montclair, a benefit show for the Montclair Community Pre-K. Guaranteed to get the whole family up and rocking. Tickets are going fast, so get them soon!
