Peterborough Musicfest will wrap up its 39th season with a throwback rock ’n’ roll celebration as Canadian quartet The Dreamboats take the stage at Del Crary Park, bringing another summer of free live entertainment in Peterborough to a close.
The season finale is scheduled for Wednesday, August 19, with The Dreamboats performing on the Fred Anderson Stage at 8 p.m. The closing-night program will also feature Kawartha Lakes musician Jeanne Truax, a themed dress-up contest, food vendors, merchandise promotions and the festival’s latest 50/50 draw.
The Dreamboats Bring Classic Rock ’n’ Roll to Del Crary Park
The Dreamboats have built their live show around the music and performance style associated with the golden age of rock ’n’ roll. Drawing inspiration from the sounds of the 1950s and 1960s, the Canadian group combines period influences with a contemporary stage presence.
Their performances reflect the musical legacy of artists including Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly and the Beatles, with harmonies, choreography and an energetic approach designed to recreate the atmosphere of early rock ’n’ roll.
For Peterborough Musicfest, the performance will serve as the final main-stage concert of Season 39.
“Closing night is always bittersweet, but we still have one great night ahead of us at Del Crary Park,” says Peterborough Musicfest Executive Director Tracey Randall. “The Dreamboats are the perfect fit for the finale. They know how to put on a show, and we’re ready to have some fun and send Season 39 out in style.”
Jeanne Truax Opens Closing-Night Program
The evening will begin at 6:30 p.m. on the Future Sound Series side stage, presented by Cogeco, with a performance by Jeanne Truax.
The Kawartha Lakes artist brings a blend of rockabilly and roots influences to her music, drawing inspiration from performers including Wanda Jackson and the Beatles. Her set is scheduled to run until 7:30 p.m., setting up the retro theme before The Dreamboats take the main stage from 8 to 9:30 p.m.
The festival is encouraging attendees to participate in that theme by arriving in clothing inspired by the 1950s or 1960s.
Closing-Night Contest Offers Season 40 VIP Package
Fans who take part in the dress-up theme can enter a social media contest by sharing a photograph of their outfit and tagging @ptbomusicfest.
One entrant will receive a Season 40 Fest Friends VIP Ticket Package, which includes VIP access to four concerts during Peterborough Musicfest’s milestone 40th season.
Organizers are encouraging a range of retro styles, including rockabilly, sock hop, greaser, mod and classic rock ’n’ roll-inspired looks.
The contest also provides an early link between the conclusion of Season 39 and preparations for next year, when the long-running Peterborough summer festival reaches its 40th season.
Food, Merchandise and 50/50 Draw Round Out Finale
Visitors arriving before the performances will have access to Musicfest food vendors, while the festival’s merchandise booth will offer special end-of-season deals.
The closing-night 50/50 draw is scheduled for 9 p.m., with tickets available both at Del Crary Park and online. Peterborough Musicfest said its monthly 50/50 draws will continue after the summer concert season concludes, with proceeds supporting the organization’s ability to provide free concerts.
The fundraising component is significant for Musicfest, which operates as a free-admission summer music festival and relies on a combination of community support, sponsors and fundraising initiatives to deliver its programming.
Musicfest Season 39 Ends With Free Peterborough Concert
Wednesday’s event brings another season of live performances at Del Crary Park to its conclusion, while setting the stage for the festival’s 40th-season milestone.
Jeanne Truax will perform from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., followed by The Dreamboats from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Admission to the closing-night concert is free.
With its combination of Canadian live music, retro styling and community activities, the finale is designed to give Peterborough Musicfest audiences one final summer evening at Del Crary Park before attention turns to Season 40.