Celebrating its 18th season, the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) announced the kick-off of its annual Concerts in the Village.

The 10-week concert series begins this week and continues every Thursday at 7:00 p.m. through June. Kicking off the 2013 season on May 2nd, the Fountain City Players will christen the Dugas Pavilion with the sounds of Motown, R&B, and Jazz. Founded three years ago by Doug Norman, Ben Weldon and Norris Dates, the band brings more than 40 years musical experience, performing rhythm and blues, ranging from the 1960’s to the sounds of present day.

Voted one of the top ten things to do in Northwest Florida by Florida Travel & Tourism Guide, Concerts in the Village will be held at the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village and enjoy use of the new permanent stage, the Dugas Pavilion, and an expanded Village Green. Located a mile-and-a-half west of Destin Commons, the Cultural Arts Village is nestled among nearly 45 acres of pristine forest. The newly-developed concert venue rests on 6.76 acres of green space, and is complemented by a commanding 20-foot metal sculpture designed by Frank Ledbetter visibly identifying the concert entrance, a new restroom facility, and 168 additional on-site grass parking spaces.

With a mix of local musicians as well as regional touring artists, Concerts in the Village includes features genres of music suitable for all ages. The 2013 concert schedule is as follows:

• May 2 – The Fountain City Players (Motown, R&B, Pop, Reggae, Jazz)

• May 9 –  The Michael Stacey Band (Modern Country)

• May 16 – Ron Adams “Reflections” (Historical Journey of American Music)

• May 23 – China Grove (Tribute to the Doobie Brothers)

• May 30 – Déjà Vu (Classic/Modern Rock and 70’s to 90’s Dance Music)

• June 6 – The Mike Veal Band (Stump the Band from over 200 top artists)

• June 13 – The Craig Woolard Band (Carolina Beach Music)

• June 20 – Heritage (Hawaiian, Pop & Reggae)

• June 27 – Alter Eagles (A Tribute to The Eagles)

• July 3 – David Seering (An American Patriotic Tribute)

“We’re hopeful that the new venue and diverse line-up will help us reconnect with the many art and music fans in our community,” said MKAF Executive Director Marcia Hull. “The concerts are fun for all ages and kids are welcome. Admission to all ten concerts is included with your Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation membership. It’s a great value.”

Local restaurants–Carrabba’s Italian Grill and Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q–alternate weekly serving fresh, affordable cuisine prepared on-site. Concert fans are also welcome to bring their own picnic and wine or beverage of choice. Bottled water and soft drinks are available to purchase on-site with proceeds benefiting the MKAF’s cultural and education mission. A benefit to sponsors and MKAF members on a first come, first serve basis, the Picnic Supper Club includes a banquet table and chairs for six or eight. Admission is $8 per adult and $15 per couple, and children under 12 and MKAF members are free.

For more info, visit MattieKellyArtsFoundation.org or call 850-650-2226.