Good News: Big Al's Homecoming Caps Off Pivotal Year at SummerWind

Windsor's SS&C SummerWind Performing Arts Center has been a facility in flux over the past couple of years. After an effort to forego hosting the occasional national act and a shift toward promoting the local arts, the self-described premiere outdoor concert venue has made a considerable leap forward.

Though this summer's weather affected some of the scheduled acts, its safe to say SummerWind's expanded offerings were a hit.

Not only did SummerWind present double its traditional number of performances this year, but it developed its "Fridays at Five" series, which aimed to draw local professionals looking for a way to kick off their weekend with high-quality, affordable entertainment.

"We’re very pleased with our expanded season and have welcomed many new people to SummerWind. Weather always plays a part in our offerings and this year was no exception. The heat wave, thunderstorms and downpours did challenge us this year, but we came through with great shows and audiences," said SS&C SummerWind Executive Director Michael Campbell.

"Getting new people in to see our facility was one of our goals and we hit that out of the park."

While SummerWind reveled in the opportunity to show first-time patrons a good time, the performance center experienced a first of its own this year: it put on shows using its own equipment, rather than using rentals.

"We are so pleased with our new stage, lighting and sound system," said Campbell of the equipment purchase made possible by a "very committed board of directors" and "development work through fundraising."

"We are so thankful to the foundations that made this happen," said Campbell.

Ownership of the stage no only allows SummerWind to reduce its overheard, but, Campbell said, the performance center can now look at renting its facilities.

In particular, SummerWind would like to "work with organizations for joint fundraisers, concerts and anything that brings notice to great work in music, the arts or community service," said Campbell.

In a year when so much has happened, it's difficult to pick out one particular highlight on stage, according to Campbell, who, when pressed, points to the free show put on by the United States Coast Guard Band and the August 3 show when Big Al Anderson returns to his hometown.

"It was our way of saying “thank you” to Windsor and beyond. It was wonderful seeing the Sea Cadets salute each veteran and watch the United States Navy Silver Dolphins Drill Team do their program," Campbell said. 

"The Coast Guard Band is world class and we were so lucky to have them play."

The show on Sat., Aug. 3 will have a different feel. That night, Big Al Anderson will return to town.

Celebrated as one of the best songwriters in music, Anderson got his start playing in Windsor-based bands and playing parties at UConn. 

"It means we are on the map and important to the community," said Campbell of Anderson's return to Windsor at SummerWind. "Big Al is a difficult artist to book and he is coming to SummerWind with great enthusiasm."

"I think that Big Al Anderson this Saturday will have a 'homecoming' feel since he grew up in Windsor. Many people are coming to reconnect with him and the music.  I think the concert will be wonderful and a highlight."

General Admission tickets for Big Al's return are just $15. Premium seating tickets cost $25.

Gates open at 6 p.m. Parking is free.

Purchase tickets online with SS&C SummerWind.