June 18, 2024 3:50 a.m. 

In the KQEN Cultural Spotlight:

Music on the Half Shell is celebrating 32 years of summer concerts as its season begins Tuesday night at the Nichol’s Bandshell in Roseburg’s Stewart Park.

An idea originally formulated by the late Dick Nichols, the series has grown from its humble beginnings to become one of Roseburg’s biggest success stories as the concerts draw people from around the Pacific Northwest. Concert admission is free, with costs largely paid for by sponsors which include local businesses and individuals, foundations and others. Baskets are passed at intermission to let those attending help pay for the shows.

The first concert is Jon Cleary and the Absolute Monster Gentlemen. The group incorporates diverse influences such as 70’s soul and R&B, gospel music, funk, Afro-Caribbean and Afro-Cuban rhythms and much more.

Food trucks and local organizations have dinner and beverages for sale. Attendees can also bring their own meal, along with wine or beer.

Music on the Half Shell continues weekly through August 6th. More information about the series is available at: www.halfshell.org.