FROM: Amy Riley, Manager
Office of Special Events, 301-228-2845

DATE: June 28, 2006

THE BANANA SLUG STRING BAND DUO’S PENGUIN PARADE
KICKS OFF 2006 SUMMERFEST FAMILY THEATER SERIES

What do you get when you combine two educators from the redwoods of California with a musical repertoire that includes boogie, folk, reggae and rap? The Banana Slug String Band Duo – a national award winning musical group that has been rockin’ for over two decades! Celebrate Frederick Inc. will present the band in Frederick’s Baker Park to kick off this year’s Summerfest Family Theatre series on Saturday, July 8th at 7 p.m.

The Banana Slug String Band Duo is Doug “Dirt” and “Airy” Larry, two teachers dedicated to bringing the FUN-damentals of science and ecology to children and families. Come along as these wacky educators take you on a Penguin Parade. From feathers to furs and scales to skin, this journey raises awareness about the diversity of animals and their habitats. Don’t just be a spectator, come dressed as your favorite animal and join the fun during this wildly interactive show filled with original songs, humor and tons of amusing costumes.

Join us rain or shine for this spectacular opening night! In the event of inclement weather the William Talley Recreation Center, 121 North Bentz Street, will serve as a rain location for this performance only. Please follow directions from staff and volunteers upon reaching the Park if the weather is questionable.
While the performances are FREE to the public, the Summerfest Family Theatre Committee encourages you to bring a canned food item in lieu of admission. Non-perishable items such as canned meats and vegetables, soups, peanut butter, cereal, rice and pastas are requested. All items collected benefit the Frederick City Community Action Agency Food Bank. Items will be collected at the new Information Booth donated by Drees Homes, located at the top of the bandshell steps in Baker Park. A special thank you to Drees Homes for this generous donation.

This year’s theater series would not be possible without the generous support of the following corporate sponsors. The Spires Sponsors are Bechtel Foundation, CelllularOne, Drees Homes, Sandy Spring Bank, Spectrum Federal Credit Union and Weis Markets. The Carillon Sponsors are Adelphia, COMSTAR Federal Credit Union, Roy Rogers – A Plamondon Company and The Frederick News-Post. The Bandshell Sponsors are BB&T and Frederick Arts Council.

The Summerfest Family Theatre will continue every Saturday evening through August 26th. For a complete schedule, to volunteer, or for more information, call 301-600-CITY (2489) or visit www.CelebrateFrederick.com.