Gregg Allman, A Superb Concert
Promoter Barbara Strauss certainly knows how to produce a great show. Last nights sold-out performance at the Sailor Circus Arena in Sarasota, Florida was magical. The show opened with the Devon Allman Group, followed by the Greg Billings Band and then a superb performance by Gregg Allman and his band.
It was not a “kids” crowd last night. It was what I would call a “baby boomer” crowd. These were folks who remember Gregg and his days with the Allman Brothers Band. It was kind of a love fest with smile after smile in the crowd. I spoke to a lot of people and everyone seemed to have the same opinion that Gregg’s voice is as strong and unique as it was many years ago and everyone had a fantastic time.
Gregg and his talented group of musicians kept the excited crowd rocking for almost 2 hours! Along with lots of new music that Gregg has written, the group played some music from back in the day like “Statesboro Blues,” “Queen of Hearts,” I’m No Angel,” “I Can’t Be Satisfied.” “Low Country Blues and “Melissa” along with other nostalgic music. Gregg has a nationwide tour and if you missed this show check out his website at www.greggallman.com for his complete tour schedule.
The Sailor Circus is a very unique venue and something that Sarasota is quite proud of. The acoustics were wonderful and it is a great venue to enjoy a show. Now, there is a lot more to write about regarding the Sailor Circus and their wonderful events. Their “mission statement”…. The Circus Arts Conservatory, Sarasota is home to world-class performances, excellence in training for the Circus Arts and community based educational and humor therapy outreach programs. The organization was born from decades of circus history and today serves as a legacy to those that have set the standards for international circus artistry and athleticism. The Circus Arts Conservatory’s extraordinary mission underscores its commitment to sharing the entertainment, education and enrichment that Circus Arts provide.
The Sarasota Post’s next mission is to meet the folks at the Sailor Circus and write a series of articles about this gem in Sarasota. Their website: www.circusarts.org
Gregg Allman photo by Vicky Sullivan