CLC News The news and events from Central Lakes College
After 15 sold out shows in St. Cloud, St. Michael and Chanhassen, all with rave reviews, the Fabulous Armadillos bring their theme show “Love Songs” to the Tornstrom Auditorium on March 23. The 7:30 p.m. show is presented as part of the Central Lakes Community Performing Arts Center’s Cultural Arts Series.
Center director and Series producer Patrick Spradlin called the show a must-see. “Any time the Armadillos bring a theme show to us, we are ecstatic,” he said. “Our audiences love these shows, mainly because of the variety of songs and musical styles the Armadillos pack into the evening.”
The Armadillos have built a devoted following throughout Minnesota and the upper Midwest with their spot-on recreations of numerous rock artists and rock songs. Their Eagles and Pink Floyd tribute shows still sell out every venue they play.
“We’ve had Armadillos shows like ‘Lucky 7’s,’, ‘Woodstock,’ and ‘Guitar Heroes’ that were amazing,” said Spradlin. “This band has such versatility and terrific musicianship. They can cover everything from Buddy Holly to Bon Jovi.”
Armadillos front man Greg Armstrong described the show’s concept. “’Love Songs’ isn’t all sappy love songs,” he said. “It is a great vocal show. If you are a fan of great vocals, you will love this show. From the hard rock of Aerosmith to the Mamas and Papas, from Journey to The Bee Gees.”
Audience members who’ve seen the show are effusive with their praise. Said Silvia F. of St. Cloud, “So, the Fabulous Armadillos have done it again! What a fun, happy show with beautiful vocal arrangements and harmonies. Just what I needed for the winter blahs!”
Chuck Krebsbach of Cold Spring said, “Congrats on another super show! The title “Love Songs” had me concerned, I’m not the sappy type. But, I was very pleasantly surprised! The performances were knocked totally out of the park.”
Tom Wakefield of St. Cloud added, “Great songs from your formative years! Makes you remember why you loved them all in the first place! What a fun night!”
Marie Sanderson from Sartell put it this way: “Of the many themed Armadillo performances I’ve seen I can absolutely say this was my favorite! I think everyone can relate to each song you performed at some point in their lives. Whether it’s a breakup, first kiss or 25 years of marriage. We were able to sing along with all of the songs. A great date night event.”
Bob W. of St. Cloud summarized his experience with a simple “Wow! Just blown away by this incredible show. When you see a show that merits four standing ovations, you know you’re witnessing something special. The set list is not what one would expect from the “Love Songs” title and there’s plenty of the unique Fabulous Armadillos humor on display. I can’t wait to see this show again and again!”
The Fabulous Armadillos are Greg Armstrong on keyboards, Paul Diethelm on lead guitar, Jay O’Donnell on drums, Mike Zeleny on bass guitar, Bill Scherer on guitar and vocals, Mike Kreitzer, Richard Witteman and Pat Thorn on horns, and John Scalia and Pamela McNeill on vocals.
Tickets for ‘Love Songs’ are available from the CLC Theatre Box Office at (218) 855-8199 or online at clcperformingarts.com.
The concert is sponsored by Lakes Dental Care and Hubbard Radio. The entire CLC Performing Arts Center season is made possible in part by an operating grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
