Summer arts abound in South Dakota! Live music, festivals and theaters prepare for audiences
fter a year of virtual performances, innovative programming and socially distanced arts of every kind, South Dakotans—along with travelers from around the nation—are ready to return to in-person arts events. While health and safety are still paramount, venues are gearing up for busy summer seasons, with full schedules of arts opportunities announced throughout the state. Below you will find a sampling of the summertime fun you and your family can enjoy. To discover the full range of arts happenings, visit the calendar page at www.ArtsSouthDakota.org and go to www.TravelSouthDakota.com.
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Levitt at the Falls: 40 free outdoor concerts
Live concerts return to the Sioux Falls Levitt Shell with a full calendar for the 2021 season. Professional artists will perform 40 free concerts at the Levitt Shell in Falls Park West starting on Friday, June 11 and running through Saturday, September 11. The 2021 season will consist of local, regional and national professional artists offering a variety of genres and musical styles. With eight different musical series offered— Americana, Women of Song, Country, Garden Fresh, Homegrown, World Music, Rock & Blues and a Family Series—there will be something for everyone. “After a year of tremendous challenges for our community, we are so thrilled to bring news of hope and joy with a return to free, outdoor live music and community building at the Levitt Shell,” said Nancy Halverson, Executive Director of Levitt at the Falls. “We are grateful for the support of our many sponsors and donors for investing in the power of live music.” Levitt concerts will be held each Friday and Saturday night during the summer, with Thursday concerts added into the schedule in the months of July and August. Levitt events will include opening acts featuring local performers and a variety of food and drinks available. The lawn will open at 6 pm each concert night with music beginning at 6:30 pm. Additionally, Family Series performances for kids and youth groups will be held on four Friday mornings throughout the summer at 10 am. Opening night on Friday, June 11 for Levitt at the Falls will feature the 2020 GRAMMY-winning quintet Ranky Tanky, who bring a fresh and inspiring jazz take to the traditional Gullah music of South Carolina. Closing night on Saturday, September 11 will feature Chicago’s LowDown Brass Band, an all-horn band which leans heavily on dance hall and street beat rhythm, with the energy of hip hop, jazz, reggae and soul. For a concert schedule and more information about Levitt at the Falls, visit www.levittsiouxfalls.org. Continued on page 4...
Opening night at the Levitt Shell in downtown Sioux Falls will feature the GRAMMY-winning group Ranky Tanky.
Below, a scene from the 2019 Levitt season. Paul Schiller photo, courtesy of Levitt at the Falls.
