Ameren Marigold Festival Showcase
The Marigold Festival Committee is excited to bring popular entertainment to the weekend, sponsored by Ameren Illinois Utilities. On Saturday, September 12th from 11:30 pm to 6:00 pm and Sunday, September 13th from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm the free entertainment stage is packed full of enjoyment. The stage is located north of the Mineral Springs Park Lagoon.
Jim Markum Swing Band will entertain you with their "big band" sound. The group consists of 10 very talented musicians from the Tri-County area who will whisk you back to the music of the 'swing-era'. From the golden oldies to the modern sounds of pop, jump, swing and blues, this band can play them all. Bring your partner and dance in the aisles on Saturday, September 12th from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm.
Laura Clark is a singer/songwriter originally from Peoria, Il, now residing near St. Louis. No stranger to the stage, she served as worship leader at Riverside Community Church in downtown Peoria for over 5 years which serves over 1000 people every weekend. The best way to describe Laura's music is moderately earth folk with a classic pop sound and rich, soulful vocals. Her music is an expression of her life's experiences. She will be performing Saturday, September 12th from 2:00 to 3:00 pm.
Saturday, September 12th from 3:30 to 4:00 pm is the time to sit back, relax and enjoy the Friends in Harmony. This ensemble of singers from the central Illinois area, perform at civic, corporate, and private functions, providing a program of Broadway, easy listening, jazz, and gospel music. The men and women of Friends volunteer their time to serve the community with musical performance, and profits from those performances and the Christmas concert are donated to local charities. The complete ensemble of 27 members performs the Christmas United Way Benefit Concert in December, and a smaller group sings throughout the year for various community events. Directed by Bob Moser, they are available for your company or group entertainment.
"Dressed to Kill Show" is America's hottest and newest KISS Tribute Band. Formed in 2008 and based in Pekin, Illinois, they are four fans that somehow managed to find each other and put every ounce of blood, sweat, and tears into what would become the "Dressed to Kill Show". They have everything you would expect from a KISS tribute band: the Starchild, Space Ace, Demon and Catman. They have the sound, the look, the stage show, the energy and the vibe! Get ready for the KISS experience on Saturday, September 12th from 5:00 to 6:00 pm.
Worship in the Park ~ Grace United Methodist Church is a group of Christ following people who love serving their Lord and Savior. Our church motto is open hearts, open minds, open doors. These open doors we hope will allow people to come in and here about the one true God. Grace UMC has a solid tradition of preaching the Gospel to our community, and we pray with God's guidance, will continue to do so. Join our time together on Sunday, September 13th from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm. 
Cathy Reynolds, Indieheaven's 2006-2009 Momentum Awards winner and Southern Gospel Artist of the Year, is a dynamic performer winning standing ovations from audiences of all ages. Her shows feature inspirational, patriotic and spirited southern gospel style with excellent song writing and production. Cathy's patriotic message of appreciation and hope to families of veterans is sure to bring comfort and encouragement. Her Gospel ministry is one of love and obedience to the Lord, JESUS CHRIST. Spend a memorable time with Cathy on Sunday, September 13th from 1:00 to 2:00 pm. on the Ameren Stage.
"Quick Change ~ World's Greatest Magical Transformation". David Maas & Dania Kaseeva met in 1995 on a circus tour, where Dania was performing her award-winning hula-hoop act and David was working as a singing ringmaster.
Born in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, Dania is the daughter of one of the Russian circus living legends, Rustam Kaseena. She began training at age six in sports and gymnastics and later in acrobatics and dance, and combined these techniques to create a unique act making her professional debut at 14 in the touring production of the Moscow Circus. Her renowned act earned her international recognition~a fact sanctioned by the Gold Medal Dania won at the Festival Mondial du Cirque de Demain in Paris, in 1988. A headliner of the Moscow Circus from 1981-1990, she has performed extensively in Europe, South America, Asia and North America. In 1991-92, she was a featured attraction of the Big Apple Circus at New York's Lincoln Center and on tour. She has since settled in America.
David Maas was also raised in show business; his German-born father, Jerry Robert Maas, was a concert pianist. At age eight, an eager David put together his first circus act, juggling on a low wire. He trained in acrobatics, dance and theatre, and showed an exceptional talent for singing which led him, at nineteen, to embark into a twelve year career as a singing ringmaster for various shows in the US, Canada, and England. In 1994, he was awarded the Bronze Medal at the International American Performing Arts Festival. David also studied magic, a discipline he has practiced with great success for the past ten years.
Together, David Maas and Dania Kaseeva present Quick Change~one of the most original and astonishing magic acts ever seen on stage or in the ring since the days of the legendary Italian transformist Fregoli. During a non-stop dynamic and superbly choreographed dance exhibition, David and Dania puzzle a flabbergasted audience with staggering, flashing costume transformations, which happen in front of our incredulous eyes in fractions of a second. Whether presented on stage, on-court, or in a circus ring, their elegant metamorphosis are simply unbelievable. Since Quick Change's debut with this amazing act in 1996, audiences have responded to their incredible illusions with tremendous ovations~they left the theatre every night, wondering if they had not just dreamed what they saw! What they saw is the most exciting and magnetic magic dance act in the world today!! Don't miss the exciting shows on Sunday, September 13th at 2:30 pm and 4:00 pm.
Julie K is a singer, songwriter, and new children's recording artist! She was born in Peoria, Illinois as Julie Kay Westendorf. Music has been part of Julie's life from a very early age. Her love for music led to classical training and eventually a scholarship to Rollins College where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Music. After having her son Weston, Julie opened her own business in Peoria teaching music and movement to children. After many successful years of teaching, Julie was determined to add a new element to children's music, providing a fresh sound that the entire family could enjoy. Using her passion for music and talent for relating to children, this new journey has begun. She will release her new CD entitled, 'A Sunny Day' and other contemporary interactive songs late August 2009. You can enjoy Julie K on Saturday, September 12th from 12:00 to 1:00 pm on the Pavilion Porch.
Wise Guise is an A Capella vocal group of 8 men that will entertain you with their wonderful and diverse musical selections again this year. During their 10 years in Illinois, they have performed for crowds from Wrigley Field to the State's Capitol. Frequently seen singing the National Anthem for the Peoria Chiefs, Peoria Rivermen and the Chicago Cubs, they have also been featured at local festivals and fundraising events. This group combines its love for music and the joy of great harmonies, with its desire to provide an entertaining variety of songs that people of all ages can enjoy. On Saturday, September 12th from 12:30 to 1:30 pm, they will be strolling the Art in the Park area and will appear on the Pavilion Porch from 1:30 to 2:15 pm.
Jason Juneke has been entertaining audiences for over 8 years at fairs, festivals and corporate events with his juggling expertise. His audience will experience the various different forms of juggling, unicycling, balancing, and manipulation along with background music and audience participation. In addition, Jason can provide balloon artistry, strolling juggling, and juggling workshops. Enjoy this unique talent with shows on Saturday, September 12th from 1:00 to 1:30 pm and from 2:30 to 3:00 pm.
Strawberry Jam brings together two acoustic guitarists who were influenced by the music of the Beatles and Pearl Jam. Nick Fleming and Ryan Massey have been playing together for over two years in the praise band at Our Savior Lutheran Church. Both play several instruments, including piano, harmonica and guitar. Nick is married and has a 4-year-old daughter, Lily, and is studying music at ICC. Ryan is a sophomore at Pekin Community High School. Strawberry Jam will be performing on Saturday, September 12th from 3:00 to 4:00 pm on the Pavilion Porch.
Melanie Hiatt is a country singer/songwriter from Peoria, Illinois. This mother of two daughters is passionate about her singing career and has won several contests over the past few years. Melanie connects with her audience to give them a warm and memorable performance. Her husband, Robert, is her sound man and her mother has a booth in Art in the Park which makes this a family affair. Come and hear Melanie perform on Saturday, September 12th from 4:30 to 5:30 pm or Sunday, September 13th, from 1:00 to 2:00pm ~~ both on the Pavilion Porch.
Jim Markum Swing Band will entertain you with their "big band" sound. The group consists of 10 very talented musicians from the Tri-County area who will whisk you back to the music of the 'swing-era'. From the golden oldies to the modern sounds of pop, jump, swing and blues, this band can play them all. Bring your partner and dance in the aisles on Saturday, September 12th from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. 
Laura Clark is a singer/songwriter originally from Peoria, Il, now residing near St. Louis. No stranger to the stage, she served as worship leader at Riverside Community Church in downtown Peoria for over 5 years which serves over 1000 people every weekend. The best way to describe Laura's music is moderately earth folk with a classic pop sound and rich, soulful vocals. Her music is an expression of her life's experiences. She will be performing Saturday, September 12th from 2:00 to 3:00 pm. 
Saturday, September 12th from 3:30 to 4:00 pm is the time to sit back, relax and enjoy the Friends in Harmony. This ensemble of singers from the central Illinois area, perform at civic, corporate, and private functions, providing a program of Broadway, easy listening, jazz, and gospel music. The men and women of Friends volunteer their time to serve the community with musical performance, and profits from those performances and the Christmas concert are donated to local charities. The complete ensemble of 27 members performs the Christmas United Way Benefit Concert in December, and a smaller group sings throughout the year for various community events. Directed by Bob Moser, they are available for your company or group entertainment. 
"Dressed to Kill Show" is America's hottest and newest KISS Tribute Band. Formed in 2008 and based in Pekin, Illinois, they are four fans that somehow managed to find each other and put every ounce of blood, sweat, and tears into what would become the "Dressed to Kill Show". They have everything you would expect from a KISS tribute band: the Starchild, Space Ace, Demon and Catman. They have the sound, the look, the stage show, the energy and the vibe! Get ready for the KISS experience on Saturday, September 12th from 5:00 to 6:00 pm. Worship in the Park ~ Grace United Methodist Church is a group of Christ following people who love serving their Lord and Savior. Our church motto is open hearts, open minds, open doors. These open doors we hope will allow people to come in and here about the one true God. Grace UMC has a solid tradition of preaching the Gospel to our community, and we pray with God's guidance, will continue to do so. Join our time together on Sunday, September 13th from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm.
Cathy Reynolds, Indieheaven's 2006-2009 Momentum Awards winner and Southern Gospel Artist of the Year, is a dynamic performer winning standing ovations from audiences of all ages. Her shows feature inspirational, patriotic and spirited southern gospel style with excellent song writing and production. Cathy's patriotic message of appreciation and hope to families of veterans is sure to bring comfort and encouragement. Her Gospel ministry is one of love and obedience to the Lord, JESUS CHRIST. Spend a memorable time with Cathy on Sunday, September 13th from 1:00 to 2:00 pm. on the Ameren Stage. "Quick Change ~ World's Greatest Magical Transformation". David Maas & Dania Kaseeva met in 1995 on a circus tour, where Dania was performing her award-winning hula-hoop act and David was working as a singing ringmaster.
Born in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, Dania is the daughter of one of the Russian circus living legends, Rustam Kaseena. She began training at age six in sports and gymnastics and later in acrobatics and dance, and combined these techniques to create a unique act making her professional debut at 14 in the touring production of the Moscow Circus. Her renowned act earned her international recognition~a fact sanctioned by the Gold Medal Dania won at the Festival Mondial du Cirque de Demain in Paris, in 1988. A headliner of the Moscow Circus from 1981-1990, she has performed extensively in Europe, South America, Asia and North America. In 1991-92, she was a featured attraction of the Big Apple Circus at New York's Lincoln Center and on tour. She has since settled in America.David Maas was also raised in show business; his German-born father, Jerry Robert Maas, was a concert pianist. At age eight, an eager David put together his first circus act, juggling on a low wire. He trained in acrobatics, dance and theatre, and showed an exceptional talent for singing which led him, at nineteen, to embark into a twelve year career as a singing ringmaster for various shows in the US, Canada, and England. In 1994, he was awarded the Bronze Medal at the International American Performing Arts Festival. David also studied magic, a discipline he has practiced with great success for the past ten years.
Together, David Maas and Dania Kaseeva present Quick Change~one of the most original and astonishing magic acts ever seen on stage or in the ring since the days of the legendary Italian transformist Fregoli. During a non-stop dynamic and superbly choreographed dance exhibition, David and Dania puzzle a flabbergasted audience with staggering, flashing costume transformations, which happen in front of our incredulous eyes in fractions of a second. Whether presented on stage, on-court, or in a circus ring, their elegant metamorphosis are simply unbelievable. Since Quick Change's debut with this amazing act in 1996, audiences have responded to their incredible illusions with tremendous ovations~they left the theatre every night, wondering if they had not just dreamed what they saw! What they saw is the most exciting and magnetic magic dance act in the world today!! Don't miss the exciting shows on Sunday, September 13th at 2:30 pm and 4:00 pm.
At the Mineral Springs Park ~~ Pavilion Porch:
Julie K is a singer, songwriter, and new children's recording artist! She was born in Peoria, Illinois as Julie Kay Westendorf. Music has been part of Julie's life from a very early age. Her love for music led to classical training and eventually a scholarship to Rollins College where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Music. After having her son Weston, Julie opened her own business in Peoria teaching music and movement to children. After many successful years of teaching, Julie was determined to add a new element to children's music, providing a fresh sound that the entire family could enjoy. Using her passion for music and talent for relating to children, this new journey has begun. She will release her new CD entitled, 'A Sunny Day' and other contemporary interactive songs late August 2009. You can enjoy Julie K on Saturday, September 12th from 12:00 to 1:00 pm on the Pavilion Porch. 
Wise Guise is an A Capella vocal group of 8 men that will entertain you with their wonderful and diverse musical selections again this year. During their 10 years in Illinois, they have performed for crowds from Wrigley Field to the State's Capitol. Frequently seen singing the National Anthem for the Peoria Chiefs, Peoria Rivermen and the Chicago Cubs, they have also been featured at local festivals and fundraising events. This group combines its love for music and the joy of great harmonies, with its desire to provide an entertaining variety of songs that people of all ages can enjoy. On Saturday, September 12th from 12:30 to 1:30 pm, they will be strolling the Art in the Park area and will appear on the Pavilion Porch from 1:30 to 2:15 pm.
Jason Juneke has been entertaining audiences for over 8 years at fairs, festivals and corporate events with his juggling expertise. His audience will experience the various different forms of juggling, unicycling, balancing, and manipulation along with background music and audience participation. In addition, Jason can provide balloon artistry, strolling juggling, and juggling workshops. Enjoy this unique talent with shows on Saturday, September 12th from 1:00 to 1:30 pm and from 2:30 to 3:00 pm. 
Strawberry Jam brings together two acoustic guitarists who were influenced by the music of the Beatles and Pearl Jam. Nick Fleming and Ryan Massey have been playing together for over two years in the praise band at Our Savior Lutheran Church. Both play several instruments, including piano, harmonica and guitar. Nick is married and has a 4-year-old daughter, Lily, and is studying music at ICC. Ryan is a sophomore at Pekin Community High School. Strawberry Jam will be performing on Saturday, September 12th from 3:00 to 4:00 pm on the Pavilion Porch. 
Melanie Hiatt is a country singer/songwriter from Peoria, Illinois. This mother of two daughters is passionate about her singing career and has won several contests over the past few years. Melanie connects with her audience to give them a warm and memorable performance. Her husband, Robert, is her sound man and her mother has a booth in Art in the Park which makes this a family affair. Come and hear Melanie perform on Saturday, September 12th from 4:30 to 5:30 pm or Sunday, September 13th, from 1:00 to 2:00pm ~~ both on the Pavilion Porch. 
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