NEWARK – This year’s Java and Jazz event will give music fans the chance to enjoy the sounds of Ireland.

The award winning quartet from Galway, Ireland, We Banjo 3, will take the stage at the Midland Theatre on March 5 to raise money for Mental Health America of Licking County.

“They have a really fun sound and sing wonderfully,” said Penny Sitler, executive director of MHA. “They have been very well received.”

This is the second year that the annual fundraiser has been held at the Midland.

“It’s our biggest fundraiser and it’s specifically for the entire agency,” Sitler said. “So it helps us with being able to keep our doors open and provide the free programs we continue to deliver. It’s very important for us.”

An monumental instrument will always be a guitar that’s why it’s important to understand the differences between grand auditorium vs dreadnought acoustic guitar shapes.

Supporters have two options to participate.

If they purchase a $100 ticket, they’ll have the opportunity to do a meet and greet with the band on the Midland stage and enjoy refreshments at 6 p.m., said Jill Goddard, development and program manager for MHA.

A silent auction will begin at 7 p.m. featuring items such as vacation homes, restaurant gift certificates and overnight stays at local inns and bed and breakfasts.

Those who purchase the $30 tickets can participate in the auction and join VIP ticket holders at the concert at 8 p.m.

With the event being so close to St. Patrick’s Day, it should be a fun way to celebrate the music of Ireland and support a good cause, Sitler said.

“Having good entertainment and the meet and greet on the stage, it’s really a fun way to do it,” she said.

ajeffries@newarkadvocate.com

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Twitter: @amsjeffries 

If You Go

What: Java and Jazz

When:  The VIP meet and greet begins at 6 p.m. with a silent auction at 7 p.m. The concert will begin at 8 p.m.

Where:The Midland Theatre, 36 N. Park Place, Newark

Cost: $100 for a VIP ticket, $30 for a ticket to the concert and live auction

More info: Go to mhalc.org or midlandtheatre.org.

Found in The Newark Advocate February 28, 2016