Zao Island kicked-off the summer with their first concert Saturday evening. The popular family entertainment center features local bands Friday and Saturday during the summer months for the entire family to enjoy. Best of all, the concerts are free! The Planetary Blues Band was first in the line-up of a summer filled with rockin’ and rollin’!
Erich MacDougall, Manager at Zao Island, said even though the concerts are outdoors, the show goes on no matter what kind of weather. An inside area serves as a backup stage, and is conveniently next to Zao Island’s famous pizza shack, Coladas Pizza. The renowned restaurant has some of the best pizzas in Valparaiso and 35 choices of craft beer. Saturday, the rain prevented an outdoor event, but people of all ages tapped their feet inside. Many ordered pizzas and drinks as they listened to the stream of bluesey songs.
“Our concerts give adults something to do while the kids go play,” MacDougall said. “Adults can enjoy an adult beverage and music, knowing their kids are having fun in a safe environment.”
Planetary Blues was happy to play their music at Zao Islands. Martin Schaefer-Murray, Vocalist/Guitar, is one of three brothers in the band. They have been playing music together since they were little. Their bond and long history of performances and experience was evident in their sound. They were first booked a few summers ago at Zao Island, and look forward to it every year. In fact, their families were there to cheer them on!
“Zao Island is a nice hometown hangout,” Schaefer-Murray said. “It’s cool because I remember playing here when I was little, and now I get to see my kids playing here, too.”
Come on out to Zao Island this summer to check out local musicians! Zao Island has acoustic music on Friday and full bands on Saturday. There are all kinds of genres like, Reggae Express and Head Honchos Band. For the full line-up, check out https://www.zaoisland.net/.