CT Arts Connections for the Week of April 8

Courtesy of the Palace

Back by popular demand, Tower of Power returns for a night of soul and funk music 8 pm at the Palace Theater in Waterbury. Tickets are $40: www.palacetheaterct.org; 203-346-2000; box office, 100 East Main St., Waterbury. A special VIP ticket package is also available for $75, which includes orchestra seating and admission to a pre-show reception featuring appetizers, stuffed breads, mini pizzas, stuffed mushrooms and tortellini by D’Amelios Italian Eatery. For the past 44 years, Tower of Power has delivered their unique brand of music to sold-out crowds across the world. The self-proclaimed “Urban Soul” band's approach to the way they play music is totally their own. Their groove laid rhythm section, unique horn-driven sound, and outstanding lead vocals combine to make one of the most dynamic groups of musicians to ever perform on stage. Original members Emilio Castillo, Rocco Prestia, Stephen Kupka, and David Garibaldi remain at the helm of the ten piece ensemble, and their creative vision and dedication still guide the band today. With such hits as “What is Hip?” and “You’re Still a Young Man,” Tower of Power is one of those rare bands who can claim to be the real deal, 100 proof, aged-to-perfection Soul.


Earlier that day, prior to the show, the Palace Theater will host its Second Annual Motorcycle Ride benefiting the Children’s Ticket and Travel Fund. Following the ride, there will be a free street fair, featuring vendors, food and live entertainment. The day will end with Tower of Power’s performance on the Palace Theater stage. Special combo packages are available, which include the Motorcycle Ride registration fee and Tower of Power concert ticket for $55. Info: 203-346-2000.

Tonya Phillips Staples, Liana Young, Nik Rocklin, Teddey Brown. Photo: Courtesy of Downtown Cabaret

8-Track: The Sounds of the 70s In Concert returns to Bridgeport’s Downtown Cabaret Theatre for an extended stay opening Friday, April 19 and continuing on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through May 12. Presented completely in song, four rock-solid singers deliver the heart and soul of the forgotten decade with a fascinating interweaving of music that is joyously rousing, moving, and often downright hilarious.Downtown Cabaret Theatre is located at 263 Golden Hill Street in Bridgeport. Reserved tickets are $39.50- $47: 203-576-1636; box office, 263 Golden Hill St., Bridgeport; downtowncabaret.org.

Yale University professor and American Historian John Mack Faragher for a post-show discussion immediately following the 2 p.m. performance of Abundance on Sunday, April 14. (The discussion is free to those attending the performance.) For tickets call Hartford Stage at 860-527-5151 or visit hartfordstage.org.