FestForums to host “Dishwalla and Friends Unplugged,” a Benefit Concert for Rockshop Academy
Courtesy photo.
SANTA BARBARA — Rockshop Academy, a non-profit program for local aspiring musicians from ages 10-17, has found a new sponsored host for their benefit fundraiser. Rockstock III was planned to be hosted at a new, “never been done” location in Downtown, Santa Barbara on October 27th, but there were issues with permits which placed the event on hold and as a result the event has been postponed. Through a pubic radio announcement and word of mouth, FestForums Co-founders Laurie Kirby & Stuart MacNaught stepped up and offered a location to help them house a benefit concert. The concert is scheduled for Wednesday, November 14th 7-10 PM, in the Reagan Room at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort.
FestForums, is a yearly conference for all festival industry leaders, event producers, and artists, held this November 14th-16th at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort (Formerly The Fess Parker Resort). Santa Barbara’s platinum-selling Dishwalla will headline the night with an acoustic set, and will include support from Rockshop Academy alumni, Stolen Thunder, & Singer-Songwriter, Jamey Geston. The event will also feature a live auction including music memorabilia and raffle items for concert goers; Fender Squire Stratocaster Guitar signed by and donated by Martin Gore, signed Collection of CD’s & Posters from Depeche Mode, signed swag from Jeff Bridges and more.
“Having to cancel Rockstock III actually reminded me of how the community of Santa Barbara is always in the sidelines, ready to help. Rockshop Academy got several calls from local businesses offering their spaces for our event. In the end, we are really happy we landed at FestForums, plus we have future spaces available to showcase the kids’ talents.”
George Pendergast, Dishwalla drummer and Rockshop Academy founder.
Rockshop Academy will celebrate their 10 year anniversary in 2019 and funds raised from the November 14th benefit concert will help provide an early funding boost for next year’s programming and continued support for Rockshop Academy activities, including Rockshop Academy scholarships for low-income and foster youth, and base funding toward their annual event next year. Tickets previously purchased for Rockstock III can be used for FestForums “Dishwalla and Friends Unplugged” as well as Rockstock 2019. A limited number of tickets, VIP packages, and general admission tickets are available. For tickets or to learn more about Rockshop Academy, visit www.rockshopacademy.com
About Rockshop Academy: Rockshop Academy is a community after school and summer camp program that offers children 10-17 years of age a place to connect with other kids who are interested in learning to play music. Students receive mentorship by professional musicians and Rockshop Academy alumni, learn skills to perform on stage, and get an opportunity to improve life skills including self-confidence, multitasking, organization, teamwork, and accountability. Kids in the program also learn to appreciate differences in each other and how to work together to accomplish a common goal.
About FestForums: FestForums® is a conference for ALL FESTIVAL industry leaders, event producers, and artists. Addressing cutting-edge technology, talent, ticketing, sponsorships, scheduling, merchandising, operations, sustainability, charitable work, innovation and safety, FestForums® brings together festivals and events of all sizes for collaboration, professional development, and entertainment.