Shhh. We don’t want to jinx it.
For the first time in awhile there seems to be some optimism that things could — maybe, possibly — return to some semblance of normal this summer. That is if COVID numbers continue to drop, vaccinations continue to rise, and (the big if) new variants do not cause more surges this spring. None of this means its time to stop wearing masks or social distancing.
In related news, Broadberry Entertainment Group announced today its inaugural pod-seating concert at Brown’s Island will feature soul group St. Paul & The Broken Bones from Birmingham, Alabama. The show will take place on Saturday, May 29 along the scenic James River in downtown Richmond. The on-sale date will be announced soon.
Recently we spoke to a local concert promoter who works with some of the city’s biggest festivals and he told us that established venues and clubs are hoping for an announcement from Gov. Northam in the coming weeks regarding possible new crowd size limitations for live concerts. But again, infections must continue to drop and public vaccination levels most grow exponentially.
According to Broadberry’s press release today, safety will be a top priority for the upcoming pod show: “Each ticket will be valid for a specific four-person pod in one of four color-coded sections. Pods are 8 x 8, and there is a 6’ buffer between all pods. Masks are required when entering and exiting the venues and any time that concert goers leave their pod. All concertgoers sitting in the same pod must arrive at the same time. Camp chairs and picnic blankets are permitted; however, tents, beach umbrellas, or canopies are not.”
Curious about the music? The eight-piece band’s last album, “Young Sick Camellia,” was released in 2018. And here’s a rough cellphone video we shot in 2014 during the group’s first performance at Brown’s Island, featuring a raucous, closing cover of Otis Redding’s “Try A Little Tenderness.”
Also from the release: “Beer and wine will be available for pre-order to be picked up on the day of show (coolers not permitted), limited pods are available and the concert is rain or shine. Tickets as well as a list of all upcoming pod-seating concerts will be available at www.TheBroadberry.com as they are announced.”
Specific safety guidelines based on CDC requirements and guidance from local health officials will be strictly enforced.
