LOUISVILLE, Ky. — From the company that brought Bourbon and Beyond, Louder Than Life and Hometown Rising to Waterfront Park, comes a new concert series.
"Live On The Lawn At Waterfront Park" is a monthslong concert series announced Monday by festival promoter Danny Wimmer Presents (DWP).
Beginning in May "Live On The Lawn At Waterfront Park" will consist of 15 live events.
In a statement, Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer said, “The arts are the soul of our city. And from all the festivals to our orchestra and to the amazing local performers that we’re known for across the world, music brings us together, soothes us through troubled times, and helps us celebrate the good times. So I’m excited about this new concert series on our waterfront."
DWP says the musical acts will feature all genres and will appeal to a variety of people. Specifics will be announced later about the individual shows.
Deborah Bilitski is the President/Executive Director of Waterfront Park and she says hosting events at the park, even during a pandemic, is possible and needed.
“While we’ve safely been hosting millions of people throughout the pandemic, this signals a turning point for the park in terms of a return to much-needed revenue generation," said Bilitski. "Event fees and donations keep the park well-maintained and free for everyone, so we really appreciate the energy DWP is putting into this wonderful concert series,” she added.
DWP has strong ties with Louisville for the numerous and popular festivals. The sixth edition of Louder Than Life is set for Sept. 23 through 26 this year. DWP's other festivals Bourbon & Beyond and Hometown Rising will hopefully one day return to the city as well.
Waterfront Park plans to host several events and in the statement said "Live On The Lawn At Waterfront Park" will not interfere with previously scheduled events. Instead, DWP will work around the existing events.
DWP founder, Danny Wimmer said, “Louisville has so much to be proud of and excited about for the future, and we’re thrilled to help play a small role in promoting a greater sense of community through live music with our new Live on the Lawn series.”
The new series is happening while the world still grapples with the pandemic and safety precautions will be made. There will be a limited capacity, socially distanced live performance for "Live On The Lawn At Waterfront Park." Right now DWP plans to have a pod-style setup with each show. Each pod would hold 4-6 people based on a purchase. The pods will be spaced appropriately but allow concertgoers to enjoy the shows. There will also be several small "Standing Room Only" spots with limited capacities. These plans can and will change depending on where the pandemic is at when the shows are scheduled. If guidelines loosen, DWP is prepared to accommodate and set up a more traditional concert setting.