(RED BANK, NJ) -- Only a few days after a show featuring The Smithereens and Patty Smyth and Scandal was announced at the Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank, news that Smithereens lead singer and songwriter Pat DiNizio had died began being reported. The show has now been changed to "Time and Time Again: A Celebration of Pat DiNizio" featuring The Smithereens with guest vocalists Steven Van Zandt, Patty Symth and Scandal, and more artists to be announced. The show remains scheduled for Saturday, January 13, 2018 at 8:00pm.
“I was set to host this Smithereens and Patty Smyth and Scandal show as part of Citi’s Underground Garage at the Basie series,” Van Zandt said. “With the sudden, tragic passing of Pat DiNizio, I think it’s appropriate that we take this moment to pay tribute to him. I will be honored to sing a few of his songs with the band, and I’m asking any friends of mine if they can make themselves available for a song or two. We’ll see who’s around and announce them shortly.”
A portion of ticket sales will go towards the establishment of the Pat DiNizio Musical Performance Scholarship at the Basie’s Performing Arts Academy. The Basie Academy is home to rock, vocal, jazz and classical music programs.
The original show was supposed to feature a first-of-its-kind Smithereens performance to roll out the Basie’s new, open-floor club concert configuration – an atmosphere tailor-fit for a memorable night of rock. In that vein, the show will go on. It will be a great way to get a sneak preview of the upcoming venue.
Tickets are $50 and are available at www.theBasie.org, by calling 732-842-9000 or at the Count Basie Box Office.
To many, Pat DiNizio wasn’t just a consummate performer, singer, songwriter and front man of The Smithereens -- he was a son, a father, a bandmate and a friend. This is the perfect night to celebrate the life and songs of Pat DiNizio.
The Count Basie Theatre is located at 99 Monmouth Street in Red Bank, New Jersey.
