» Arts Fest closer swinging into town
Masters of Soul reimagines what those shows may have been like and adds in other Motown and Stax Records hitmakers of the time with their distinctive harmonies and choreography that complemented the music.
The soul will fill Veteran’s Park at 8 p.m. Friday, July 14. This Summer Arts Festival show is presented by The Springfield Arts Council, and admission is free.
Masters of Soul baritone John Hodges, who takes on multiple parts from The Temptations and the Four Tops to Barry White, said the family-friendly show has a wide appeal.
“The Motown sound is as good today as it was then. It’s universal and been passed on from parents to kids to grandkids and everybody knows the lyrics and can sing along,” said Hodges.
It wasn’t just about the music. Gordy hired choreographers to work with the bands when they toured which added to the live experience.
“Then you add in the orchestration and great harmonies and it’s a polished act,” Hodges said.
The show includes “special guests” such as Marvin Gaye, Sam and Dave, Tina Turner, Donna Summer, Isaac Hayes, Aretha Franklin and Gladys Knight and the Pips among them.
Hodges also gets a solo spotlight when he channels the sexy stylings of Barry White.
“When I start to talk in Barry’s voice you can hear the ladies scream,” he said. “It’s just fun.”
“Put on your dancing shoes for a dance down memory lane.”
How to go
What: Masters of Soul
Where: Turner Pavilion, Veteran’s Park, Springfield
When: 8 p.m. Friday, July 14
Admission: Free
More info: 937-324-2712 or www.SpringfieldArtsCouncil.org
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