The artists, times, venues, sponsors and application information below belong to this earlier edition. They are not the returning 2027 line-up. Old controls are disabled.
First Night Artists
Check out the First Night Akron 2012 Event Guide!
SELECT GENRE: Theatre | Music | Visual | Dance | Interactive | Mainstage | Performance Art
All Artists
A Band Named Ashes
Greystone Hall: Ballroom, 2nd Floor 8:30-9:30 p.m.
Enjoy Progressive Folk music featured on A Band Named Ashes' most recent albums, "Circles," "Live at Tony's Speakeasy," and more from upcoming albums.
Stage sponsored by John S. Knight Center.
This Site sponsored by: GAR Foundation
Actors' Summit Presents Broadway & More
Greystone Hall-Theater, 6th Floor 6-9 p.m.
“Broadway and More” will feature musical numbers from past and future shows, as well as Broadway favorites, performed in 15 minute sets, by 8 different singers, actors and musicians.
This Site Sponsored by: GAR Foundation
Akron Film
Akron Art Museum: Auditorium 8-10 p.m.
The producers of the Akron Film+Pixel Festival present short films for all ages in the Akron Art Museum auditorium. Stop in at any point during the program for a cinematic diversion.
Stage sponsored by OMNOVA Solutions Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: FirstMerit Bank
Akron-Summit County Public Library Children's Make & Take
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Children's Room 6-9 p.m.
This is your chance to make some noise in the library! Create and decorate a noisemaker in the Children’s Library for the New Year’s festivities.
This Site Sponsored by: Acme Fresh Market
Alex Bevan
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Main St. Level 8:30-9:15 p.m.
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Main St. Level 9:30-10:15
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Main St. Level 10:30-11 p.m.
Alex Bevan is truly Northern Ohio's "Low Tech Troubadour." A gifted songwriter, an ample storyteller and a facile guitar picker, he performs melodies crafted from a love of nature and words that speak of real lives.
Stage sponsored by The Sisler McFawn Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: Acme Fresh Market
Arlington Praise
Zion Lutheran Church 7-7:30 p.m.
Zion Lutheran Church 8:45-9:15 p.m.
Enjoy inspirational and gospel music to ring in the New Year!
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Beacon Journal/Ohio.com
Artists of Rubber City: The BOX
Summit Artspace: 3rd Floor 6-9 p.m.
Stop by to view Paper or Plastic: A Lowbrow Toy Show, featuring over 30 contemporary artists showing off the latest art phenomenon: vinyl toys and fine art. From tattoo artists to college professors - this fresh talent is sure to impress!
This Site Sponsored by: Kenneth L. Calhoun, Keybank Trust
Ashley Brooke Toussant
Akron Art Museum: Lobby 7:45-8:30 p.m.
Akron Art Museum: Lobby 8:45-9:30 p.m.
Fall marked the release of Ashley's first full length album, Sweetheart. No stranger to Akron, she opened for Country Hall of Famer Don Williams at the Akron Civic Theatre last March.
This Site Sponsored by: FirstMerit Bank
Asian Services in Action, Inc. (ASIA, Inc.)
Summit Artspace: 3rd Floor 6-9 p.m.
This “Fish” make and take symbolizes prosperity in Chinese culture. Make sure you get a Chinese "Happy New Year" bookmark and a fortune cookie when you visit ASIA, Inc. during First Night!
Supported by Cohen & Company.
This Site Sponsored by: Kenneth L. Calhoun, Keybank Trust
B.E. Mann
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 1 6-6:45 p.m.
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 1 7-8 p.m.
High energy, dance powered, crowd interactive, sing-along party reggae music.
Stage sponsored by Robert O. & Annamae Orr Family Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Community Foundation
Bonnie Baughman
Zion Lutheran Church 6:15-6:45 p.m.
Zion Lutheran Church 7:45-8:15 p.m.
This singer and songwriter performs a mix of show tunes, old favorites, traditional and contemporary gospel.A dynamic voice conveys that her songs are sung straight from the heart.
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Beacon Journal/Ohio.com
Braids & Beads
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 6-9 p.m.
Braiding and beading is fun for all ages! Have your hair braided with colorful beads on the ends.
This Site Sponsored by: PNC Bank
Brass Band of the Western Reserve
Akron-Summit County Public Library: Auditorium 9:15-10 p.m.
Akron-Summit County Public Library: Auditorium 10:15-11 p.m.
Akron's Brass Band of the Western Reserve returns to First Night to present a selection of popular big band favorites and light classics.
This Site Sponsored by: Acme Fresh Market
Buck and Buffy
Around Town 6-9 p.m.
Buck the dog and his little sister Buffy are the epitome of cool! They can be seen all over town giving away “Kid Dollars” to kids worth $1 at any Acme Fresh Market store. Can you find Buck & Buffy at First Night?
Buck & Buffy Provided by: Acme Fresh Market
Cari Miller's Sunthing Special
Summit Artspace: 3rd Floor 6-9 p.m.
Fun, funky, colorful andaffordable works of art abound in Cari Miller's studio/gallery. You'll find acrylic paintings, pottery, works with recycled objects, handmade cards and a unique line of "Akron pride" items.
This Site Sponsored by: Kenneth L. Calhoun, Keybank Trust
Carolyn E. Lewis Studio
Summit Artspace: 3rd Floor 6-9 p.m.
Stop by to view beautiful paintings and a live demo by Carolyn. Children are welcome to create works on an easel.
This Site Sponsored by: Kenneth L. Calhoun, Keybank Trust
Colin Dussault's Blues Project
Akron Civic Theatre: Stage 7:15-8 p.m.
Akron Civic Theatre: Stage 8:15-9 p.m.
After 21 years on the Northeast Ohio music scene, this award winning, harmonica driven, blues-based, roots, rock 'n soul band has established itself as one of the hardest working and most versatile performing units in the area!
This Site Sponsored by: Ohio Arts Council
Confucius Institute Make & Take
Summit Artspace 6-9 p.m.
The University of Akron's Confucius Institute is dedicated to enhancing the understanding of the Chinese language & culture around the world. Stop by to learn Chinese writing, language and culture.
Supported by GoJo Industries, Inc.
This Site Sponsored by: Kenneth L. Calhoun, Keybank Trust
Connie Bloom's Quilting Arts Studio and Gallery
Summit Artspace: 3rd Floor 6-9 p.m.
Connie’s studio features whimsical and intricate abstract art quilts, landscapes and ecology pieces made from hand dyed and hand painted or recycled cloth. Extensive free motion work rewards close up viewing!
This Site Sponsored by: Kenneth L. Calhoun, Keybank Trust
Constellations Dance Company
Akron-Summit County Public Library: Auditorium 6-6:30 p.m.
Akron-Summit County Public Library: Auditorium 7:30-8 p.m.
Constellations Dance Co. is a pre-professional company for those considering a career in the arts or wishing to expand their training by working with professionals in the field.
Stage sponsored by Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company.
This Site Sponsored by: Acme Fresh Market
Create Your Own Personal Garden at the Akron Art Museum
Akron Art Museum: Corbin Gallery 6-10 p.m.
In the museum’s Corbin Gallery use magnetized design elements to create a personal garden paradise. Browse the idyllic configurations of other visitors before building upon their visions or clearing a space to design anew. Museum educators will periodically document the designs through photographs and post a selection throughout the duration of the Landscapes from the Age of Impressionism exhibition on view in the Arnstein Galleries through February 5, 2012.
This Site Sponsored by: FirstMerit Bank
Drip E. Faucet - Magician, Juggler and Plumber
Around Town 6-11 p.m.
Drip E. Faucet: Magician, Juggler, and Plumber performs amazing and amusing feats of magic and hilarious high flying, gravity defying juggling fun! Enjoy squeaky clean comedy for the whole family!
Sponsored by: METRO Transit Authority
Face Painting
Zion Lutheran Church 7-9 p.m.
Face painting for the whole family to enjoy!
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Beacon Journal/Ohio.com
Fergie & The Bog Dogs
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 2 6-6:45 p.m.
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 2 7-7:45 p.m.
One of Northeast Ohio's favorite Irish Pub bands, Fergie and the Bog Dogs brings traditional and modern Celtic music to its entertaining show.
Supported by The Murdough Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Community Foundation
Franklin T. Moose
Around Town 6-9 p.m.
Franklin T. Moose, the cute and cuddly moose from FirstMerit Bank, will be handing out fun gifts for kids beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Mainstage. At 9 p.m., make sure you join him in the countdown to the FirstMerit Kids Fireworks Show.
Franklin T. Moose Provided by: FirstMerit Bank
Fun 2012 Hats and Plaques
Akron Art Museum: Lobby 6-10 p.m.
Create a hat or a plaque to remember First Night 2012 in Downtown Akron. Create a Headband Hat or a plaque to share complete with your own embellishments.
This Site Sponsored by: FirstMerit Bank
Get Painted Temp Tattoos
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 6-9 p.m.
Come get your own airbrush temporary tattoo!
This Site Sponsored by: PNC Bank
Gospel Wonders
Zion Lutheran Church 6-6:45 p.m.
Zion Lutheran Church 7:45-8:30 p.m.
Gospel Wonders love to articulate the love of God through songs, service and praise.
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Beacon Journal/Ohio.com
Hall of Resolution
John S. Knight Center: Maidenberg Concourse 6-11 p.m.
Whether you want to lose weight, learn a new skill, get organized, get healthy or just explore the possibilities of getting support for a life changing goal, you’ll be able to find something to meet your needs in the “Hall of Resolution.”
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Community Foundation
Hans F. Utter - Sitar
Summit Artspace: Gallery 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Enjoy traditional Indian classical music on sitar by Hans F. Utter.
Stage sponsored by The University of Akron.
This Site Sponsored by: Kenneth L. Calhoun Keybank Trust
Hard Day's Night - Beatles Tribute
Akron Civic Theatre: Stage 9:30-10:15 p.m.
Akron Civic Theatre: Stage 10:30-11:15 p.m.
One of the top authentic Beatles tribute bands performing today and one of the very few to have performed in
Liverpool, England!
This Site Sponsored by: Ohio Arts Council
Heads Up Productions
John S. Knight Center: Maidenberg Concourse 7-11 p.m.
Visit Heads Up Productions at the John S. Knight Center to share your First Night experience for a chance to be featured on Heads Up Arts Radio, a family-friendly podcast centering on arts in the Akron-area. Or see if you can catch the Heads Up Street Performers as you move through the First Night footprint! If you do they're sure to entertain you with songs, poetry, stories and more!
Sponsored by: METRO Regional Transit Authority
Horns and Things
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 2 8:15-9:15 p.m.
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 2 9:30-10:30 p.m.
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 2 10:45-11:15 p.m.
This powerhouse contemporary jazz ensemble has pleased audiences throughout the years! The group was founded by saxophonists J.T. Lynch and Ken LeeGrand.
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Community Foundation
Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides by Carriage Limousine Service
Around Town 7-10 p.m.
Carriage Limousine Service will offer sleigh rides through beautiful Downtown Akron in a one of a kind eight passenger horse drawn sleigh!
Sponsored by: METRO Regional Transit Authority
joyUNSPEAKABLE Productions
Akron Civic Theatre: Lobby 6-11 p.m.
Motionless poses and convincing costumes will make you think it's a statue. With an expressionless face painted to match costume color, JoyUNSPEAKABLE uses only subtle but deliberate movement to communicate with the audience.
Supported by Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund.
This Site Sponsored by: Ohio Arts Council
Kathy Johnson
Akron-Summit County Public Library 7-7:45 p.m.
Akron-Summit County Public Library 8-8:45 p.m.
Kathy Johnson is an entertaining singer-songwriter whose performances delight audiences of all ages. Listen to her eclectic and fun mix of originals, folk, cowboy songs, vintage country, standards and more!
Stage sponsored by The Mary S. and David C. Corbin Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: Acme Fresh Market
Kent State Ice Carving Club
Mainstage 9:15-11 p.m.
Mainstage 11-11:25 p.m.
An amazing demonstration of ice carving performed and choreographed to music, followed by an extraordinary speed carving competition to cap off the evening’s festivities.
Fire & Ice
Polar opposites will attract thousands at the Mainstage of First Night Akron when the Kent State Ice Carving Club presents their speed carving competition in contrast to R&RPoi’s Fire Twirling extravaganza. Both ice and fire will be flying in this awe inspiring demonstration of skill and artistry. Two ice carvers will race against the clock to complete their masterpiece within a 25 minute deadline. And two fire twirlers will dazzle the guests of First Night with aerial tosses and twirling feats to boggle the imagination. Don’t miss this exhibition of the elements in their most artistic form.
This Site Sponsored by: City of Akron
Kyle Magilavy Trio
Greystone Hall: Doric Room, 4th Floor 6-6:45 p.m.
Greystone Hall: Doric Room, 4th Floor 7-7:45 p.m.
The Kyle Magilavy Trio combines the old sounds of 1920s and 30s with mellow tones of modern jazz and R&B, producing a sound that is truly unique, smooth and relaxing.
This Site Sponsored by: GAR Foundation
L.I.O.N. Players
Zion Lutheran Church 8:30-9 p.m.
Zion Lutheran Church 7-7:30 p.m.
L.I.O.N Players, a theater troupe based in Akron, spotlights truth through the creative arts. In a high energy performance L.I.O.N. Players use drama, dance, music and mime.
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Beacon Journal/Ohio.com
Let's Face it Caricatures
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 6-9 p.m.
Let's Face it Caricatures provides live humorous sketches of your family and friends!
This Site Sponsored by: PNC Bank
Let's Move, Summit County!
Summit Artspace: Conference Room 6-9 p.m.
“Let’s Move, Summit County!” is a healthy lifestyle initiative focused on childhood wellness. Join “Let’s Move” at the Summit Artspace for FUN, FITness activities. FREE winter hats and goodie bags for the first 250 kids!
This Site Sponsored by: Kenneth L. Calhoun Keybank Trust
Lisa & Heather Malyuk
Akron Art Museum: Lobby 6-6:30 p.m.
Akron Art Museum: Lobby 6:45-7:15 p.m.
These highly acclaimed multi-instrumentalists give traditions a twist! Their performances feature old-time Appalachian, Celtic, World & original folk music ranging from energetic and driving tunes to bittersweet and haunting melodies.
This Site Sponsored by: FirstMerit Bank
Lost State of Franklin
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 2 10:45-11:15 P.M.
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 2 8:30-9:15 p.m.
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 2 9:30-10:30 p.m.
Lost State of Franklin has taken their sound around the world many times over. This group is family-friendly and loved by all – teenagers, grandmas, truckers, preachers, moms and dads!
Stage sponsored by Roetzel & Andress.
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Community Foundation
Magic Mike Productions
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Classroom 9:15-10 p.m.
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Classroom 10:15-11 p.m.
Magic Mike reappears to amaze and astonish children and adults of all ages with comedic, interactive magic and illusion!
Supported by Meggitt Aircraft Braking Systems Corporation.
This Site Sponsored by: Acme Fresh Market
Magical Theatre Company
Akron Art Museum: Auditorium 6-6:45 p.m.
Akron Art Museum: Auditorium 7-7:45 p.m.
Magical Theater Company presents Ferdinand the Bull, the classic story of a mild-mannered bull who would rather smell the flowers than fight. Popular all over the world, this stoy has been retold in more than 60 languages.
Stage sponsored by OMNOVA Solutions Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: FirstMerit Bank
Mame Daiko, Taiko Drumming Ensemble
Greystone Hall: Ballroom, 2nd Floor 6:15-7 p.m.
Greystone Hall: Ballroom, 2nd Floor 7:15-8:15 p.m.
Mame Daiko, Cleveland JACL's Japanese Taiko Ensemble, performs a mix of traditional and contemporary songs in a high energy performance that combines choreography and drumming.
Stage sponsored by John S. Knight Center.
This Site Sponsored by: GAR Foundation
Marlowe the Magic Clown
Around Town 6-9 p.m.
Marlowe the Magic Clown is a friendly hobo/tramp clown that shares his bag of funny sight gags, does pocket magic, hands out stickers and makes apple balloons. Marlowe even poses for photos too!
Sponsored by: METRO Regional Transit Authority
Memphis Cradle
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 1 8:15-9:15 p.m.
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 1 9:30-10:30 p.m.
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 1 10:45-11:15 p.m.
Memphis Cradle, winners of Northeast Ohio Blues Association’s 2011 Blues Challenge, is all about the Blues.Their versatility allows the listener to enjoy all aspects of the Blues.
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Community Foundation
METRO Make & Take
METRO Transit Center 6-10 p.m.
Stop by the METRO Transit Center to make your own Headlight or Stickman!
Site Sponsored by: County of Summit
Michael Roy's Cirque Du Papier
Around Town 7-11 p.m.
Right before your eyes, Michael Roy deftly displays dazzling digital dexterity, morphing single, flat squares of paper into cool 3D creatures by merely folding. No cuts, no tears, no glue.
Sponsored by: METRO Regional Transit Authority
Midnight Wedding Festivities
Mainstage 6:55 p.m.
Mainstage 11:45 p.m.
Watch as pre-registered couples try their luck at winning custom made white gold diamond companion wedding rings designed by C. L. Davis Jewelers plus overnight accommodations and a deluxe breakfast from the Ramada Plaza located right in the heart of Downtown! The winning couple will be whisked away in a horse drawn sleigh where their wedding bands will be custom sized to fit for when they exchange vows at the midnight ceremony. Let your New Year’s Eve explode in pyrotechnics and love. Exchange wedding vows on Main Street and share your first kiss as newlyweds at midnight under the stars and the beauty of the New Year’s fireworks.
Sponsored by: C.L. Davis Jewelers
Moustache Yourself!
METRO Transit Center 7-10 p.m.
Moustache Yourself! is composed of Joe Terett on Guitar, Jeremy Jones on Guitar and Bass Fiddle player, Tim Akin. This Gypsy Jazz group performs waltzes, fast tempos, minor keys and exotic melodies. Men with moustaches.
This Site Sponsored by: County of Summit
O'Hare Irish School of Dance
Akron Civic Theatre: Stage 6-6:45 p.m.
A high energy Celtic performance similar to Riverdance done by 30 plus local Irish Dance champions from the O'Hare School of Irish Dance, followed by an interactive performance geared toward children (no experience necessary).
Supported by County of Summit Alcohol, Drug Addiction & Mental Health (ADM) Services Board.
This Site Sponsored by: Ohio Arts Council
Ohio College of Clowning Arts
Around Town 9-10 p.m.
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Classroom 6-6:30 p.m.
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Classroom 6:45-7:15 p.m.
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Classroom 7:30-8 p.m.
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Classroom 8:15-8:45 p.m.
An on the road, interactive course to start you in the world of clowning followed by magic and musical entertainment.
This Site Sponsored by: Acme Fresh Market
Pat Catan's Mask Making
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 6-9 p.m.
First Night’s favorite make and take returns!From glitter and sequins to feathers and beads – you’re sure to find the perfect supplies to create a masterpiece.
This Site Sponsored by: PNC Bank
PNC's Grow Up Great
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 6-9 p.m.
While you explore the sights and sounds of First Night, stop by this child-oriented venue that highlights PNC's national and local Grow Up Great efforts through the art of imaginative play! Make and take money jars with PNC's For You, For Me, For Later station. Learn about making strong choices with the Illusion Factory in Huck Finn's Story. Build and play in your own Step2 "kiddie city," imagine what you want to be when you grow up with Let's Face it Caricatures and add some zing to your First Night attire with Pat Catan's Mask Making, Braids and Beads and Get Painted Temp Tattoos!
This Site Sponsored by: PNC Bank
PNR Improv
Summit Artspace: 2nd Floor 6:15-9 p.m.
All of the improv shows are based on audience suggestions and made up on the spot, right in front of you without a net!
Stage sponsored by Labels & Letters.
This Site Sponsored by: Kenneth L. Calhoun Keybank Trust
Post Comedy Theater
Akron-Summit County Public Library-High St. Level 9:15-10 p.m.
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Main St. Level 10:15-11 p.m.
Robert Post performs a series of comedy sketches reminiscent of old-time variety shows like Red Skelton and Carol Burnett. He plays ever character sometimes as many as seven in one sketch.POST Comedy Theater is sure to make you laugh, thank and wonder as this cast of zany characters comes to life.
Stage sponsored by The Mary S. and David C. Corbin Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: Acme Fresh Market
RED Company real.edge.dance
Akron-Summit County Public Library: Auditorium 6:45-7:15 p.m.
Akron-Summit County Public Library: Auditorium 8:15-8:45 p.m.
RED Company real.edge.dance, Akron's new contemporary dance company will present two eclectic and dynamically charged dance works. RED's style is edgy, vibrant, and entertaining and features talented local dancers.
Stage sponsored by Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company.
This Site Sponsored by: Acme Fresh Market
Rediscover Akron with Anitra Redlefsen
John S. Knight Center: Karder Terrace 6-10 p.m.
Rediscover Akron! First Night participants will create a giant, 11” x 17” “post card” featuring five of Akron’s historic landmarks – West Point Market, The Akron Civic Theatre, Stan Hywet Hall, The Diamond Grill and Mary Coyle restaurant.
Supported by R.C. Musson and Katharine M. Musson Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Community Foundation
Silent Lion
Greystone Hall: Doric Room, 4th Floor 8:15-9 p.m.
Greystone Hall: Doric Room, 4th Floor 9:15-10 p.m.
Silent Lion is an exotic International Celtic duo, time traveling across world styles of music, sharing romantic and esoteric masterpieces with Irish Bouzouki, mandolin, guitar, banjo and voice.
Supported by Moffitt Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: GAR Foundation
Smile! You're on Camera!
METRO Transit Center 6-10 p.m.
Stop in the Red Eye photo booth and capture your evening with a free photo!
This Site Sponsored by: County of Summit
Steve Free
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Main St. Level 6-6:30 p.m.
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Main St. Level 6:45-7:15 p.m.
Akron-Summit County Public Library-Main St. Level 7:30-8 p.m.
Steve Free is an internationally award winning recording artist, winner of 8 ASCAP Awards and the 2008 Governor’s Arts Award as Ohio's #1 Artist.He tells the story of the Appalachian and Native American heritage of Southern Ohio through song and storytelling with a fun-filled show for all ages.
Stage sponsored by The Sisler McFawn Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: Acme Fresh Market
Stickman Launch
METRO Transit Center 8 p.m.
500 stickman with treat bags will parachute to the floor of the Transit Center attached to helium balloons!
This Site Sponsored by: County of Summit
Street Beat Drummers
Around Town 7-11 p.m.
The Street Beat Drummers will keep your toes tapping! Watch for their colorful costumes as they bop trough the streets and light up smiles on the faces of all who come near!
Sponsored by: METRO Regional Transit Authority
Summit County Songwriters Circle
Summit Artspace: 2nd Floor 7-9 p.m.
Summit County Songwriters Circle, formed in 2033, is a group of musicians performing originals and covering classic rock and blues.
This Site Sponsored by: Kenneth L. Calhoun Keybank Trust
Tants Muziky
Akron-Summit County Public Library-High St. Level 6-6:45 p.m.
Tants Muziky performs instrumental Folk music from Scandinavian, Slavic & Eastern European Nations on a variety of ethnic instruments and wears appropriate garb for the occasion.
Stage sponsored by The Mary S. and David C. Corbin Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: Acme Fresh Market
The Center for Literacy
Summit Artspace: 3rd Floor 6-9 p.m.
The Center for Literacy will have digital devices available for kids to discover, create in, and explore fun educational applications. The applications include digital storytelling, ebooks, problem solving games, drawing activities and more. Participants will also be encouraged to write or draw their new year goals on a paper thought bubble to take home with them.
Supported by Charles E. and Mabel M. Ritchie Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: Kenneth L. Calhoun, Keybank Trust
The Illusion Factory
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 6:15-6:30 p.m.
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 8-8:15 p.m.
The Shoppes at Akron Centre 7-7:45 p.m.
Enjoy two 15 minute workshops and a 45 minute theater presentation of Huck Finn! "Huck Finn's Story" is alive with humor and colorful characters. Huck is led by the greed and hypocrisy of society and his conscience troubles him during his journey down the Mississippi where he grows up.
This Site Sponsored by: PNC Bank
The Juke Hounds
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 1 6-6:45
John S. Knight Center-Main Floor 1 7-7:45 p.m.
The Juke Hounds play danceable blues, soul and rock and roll led by soulful vocals, guitar and harmonica.Don’t miss this performance by the winners of the Cleveland Blues Society's 2010 Blues Challenge!
Supported by Lloyd L. and Louise K. Smith Memorial Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Community Foundation
The Seelie Players
Around Town 6 p.m.-12 a.m.
The Seelie Players embody grace, fantasy and wonder. Rare and precious, these creatures have traveled far in their quest to connect with us. They bring gifts and love to play!
Sponsored by: METRO Regional Transit Authority
The T.A.G. Art Company Stilt Walkers
Around Town 11:30-11:50 p.m.
Around Town 8-10 p.m.
T.A.G. Art brings a whole new level of entertainment tonight - one that's 10' tall with its talented stilt walkers. Hello down there! It's the towering adventures of Lewis and Clark!
Sponsored by: METRO Regional Transit Authority
The Terry Klausman Studio and Gallery
Summit Artspace: 3rd Floor 6-9 p.m.
After seven years of being the First Night caricature artist, Terry has retired to his Summit Artspace studio. Come see his studio and gallery and celebrate the New Year surrounded by his magnificent welded steel creations. Add some beauty to your evening with his wonderfully crafted colored pencil drawings based on his steel sculpture.
This Site Sponsored by: Kenneth L. Calhoun Keybank Trust
UA Steel Drum Band
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 1 8:30-9:30 p.m.
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 1 9:45-10:30
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 1 10:45-11:15p.m.
Discover what thousands of their fans already know! The highly-acclaimed UA Steel Drum Band performs Caribbean music at its best.
Stage sponsored by Robert O. & Annamae Orr Family Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Community Foundation
Under the Sea Water Walk Through Experience with Amy Mothersbaugh Roos/Studio 2091
Main Street 6 p.m.-12 a.m.
You’ll be enchanted by this under the sea water walk through experience that includes the opportunity to make and take an origami fortune teller!
Sponsored by: METRO Regional Transit Authority
Verb Ballets
Around Town 9 p.m.-Midnight
Verb's program is intended to ignite audience passion and participation in contemporary dance by performing works from its repertory and providing the opportunity to learn Verb's new line dance!
Sponsored by: METRO Regional Transit Authority
Wanda Hunt Band
John S. Knight Center-Goodyear Ballroom 9:30-10:15 p.m.
John S. Knight Center-Goodyear Ballroom 10:30-11:15 p.m.
This crowd pleasing eight-piece band with horns features lead singer Wanda Hunt performing danceable old school Rhythm & Blues.
Stage sponsored by The Welty Family Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Community Foundation
Weathervane Playhouse Kids Theatre and Make & Take
John S. Knight Center: Maidenberg Concourse 6:30-8:30
Audience participation is encouraged in Two Swords a Bag of Marbles and a PB&J, an interactive performance written by Alan Scott Ferrall. Young Prince Vladimir, having seen his older brothers rescue Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Rapunzel, Cinderella and the Little Mermaid, goes off in search of his own damsel in distress. His adventures take him to far-away lands where not everything is what it seems, and his travel companion — a princess in training — is more than equal to the tasks presented to them!
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Community Foundation
Westside Steve Simmons
Summit Artspace: 3rd Floor 6-9 p.m.
Westside Steve Simmons has an excellent voice and sings favorites and original music, much of which is oriented to the Great Lakes.
Supported by A Schulman, Inc.
This Site Sponsored by: Kenneth L. Calhoun Keybank Trust
Yiddishe Cup
John S. Knight Center-Goodyear Ballroom 6:15-7 p.m.
John S. Knight Center-Goodyear Ballroom 7:15-8 p.m.
John S. Knight Center-Goodyear Ballroom 8:15-9 p.m.
"Hava Nagilah" to the 10th Power! This Klezmer Band lights up the stage with their eccentric mix of Yiddish music.
Stage sponsored by The Welty Family Foundation.
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Community Foundation
Zion's Praise Singers
Zion Lutheran Church 9:15-9:45 p.m.
The Praise Team of Zion Lutheran Church will offer joyous, up-beat songs that praise the Lord.
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Beacon Journal/Ohio.com
ZOBAPAGO
Mainstage 8:15-9 p.m.
Take a ride with ZOBAPAGO (zo-bop-a-go) - dynamic educational entertainment combining songs with a story for children and those willing to let their inner child play for the night.
This Site Sponsored by: City of Akron
Zydeco Kings
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 2 6:15-7 p.m.
John S. Knight Center-Exhibit Hall 2 7:15-8 p.m.
The Zydeco Kings are a hot sauced mixture of old school rhythm and blues infused with the spirit of New Orleans. Steeped in gumbo boogie woogie, a dash Caribbean soul, rollicking piano, accordion, guitar, saxophone, bass, drums and of course, some rubboard.
Stage sponsored by Roetzel & Andress.
This Site Sponsored by: Akron Community Foundation