Marietta, Ga. (May 28, 2013) — One of America’s greatest pastimes is grabbing a warm, buttery popcorn, a Co-Cola and grabbing a show. This Fourth of July weekend, you have an opportunity to celebrate your independence at the historic Earl Smith Strand Theatre, whether you prefer the high energy of a live show, a patriotic parade, or watching a striking fireworks show unfold.
Bird’s Eye Parade View
Patriotic Parade and Mimosas
On the morning of July 4, parade-watchers can perch on The Strand’s rooftop, enjoying a Bird’s Eye Parade View of the floats, marching bands, beauty queens, and military outfits featured in this year’s Freedom Parade by City of Marietta. A cash bar will include Bloody Marys, Mimosas, Screwdrivers, and other morning beverages. Doors open at 9 a.m. and the parade starts at 10 a.m. Only 100 people will enjoy The Strand’s lofty view and admission is $10. It is recommended that guests purchase tickets in advance as the event has sold out in the past.
Fireworks on Fourth
The Sky’s the Limit
The Strand’s festive terrace is a spectacular venue to see the sky light up on July 4. Guests enjoy watching Marietta’s dazzling fireworks from the fourth level Cobb Terrace with a cocktail in hand. The view of thousands of people in the square’s streets is pretty unbelievable too. The fireworks will light the sky after dark, estimated to be between 8:30 and 9 p.m. and The Strand’s doors and bar will open at 6 p.m. Cobb Life Magazine recently named the terrace the “Best Place to See & Be Seen.” Admission is $15 and will be limited to 120 people.
THE MOTOWN SOUND AT THE STRAND
Prepare to get your groove on at the Earl Smith Strand Theatre this summer, as its popular Motown show is returning July 4- July 14! This year’s show, entitled The Motown Sound is sure to have audiences’ toes tapping, fingers snapping, and feel-good nostalgia flowing.
“This will be our third year to produce a Motown show,” Executive Director Earl Reece explains. “After our first production, we knew that everyone agreed with us that Motown music is truly universal and the music of America. It started in 1957 with the talented Berry Gordy, and the music is still loved and enjoyed today.” Earl continues, “The week of July 4 is the perfect time to celebrate our country and the music that our country loves. The Motown Sound is ninety minutes of non-stop energy, excitement, and fun. It is guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser!”
Following the huge success of last year’s show Mo’ Motown, The Motown Sound whisks audiences back to the 1960s with the feel-good hits of the much-celebrated Motown era. Audiences are sure to enjoy the big hair, the colorful fashions, and the soulful sounds of Stevie Wonder, Martha & the Vandellas, Marvin Gaye, the Temptations, and Gladys Knight & The Pips in this high-energy, high-excitement musical revue.
The Motown Sound will be directed by Earl Reece with Assistant Director Catherine Rhodes.
Tickets are $25 and assigned seating. The Motown Sound will run July 4 @ 7pm, July 5 & 6 @8pm, July 7 @ 3pm, July 12 & 13 @ 8pm, and July 14 @ 3pm.
The historic Earl Smith Strand Theatre is a multi-use performing arts and events facility. The theatre is governed by the Friends of The Strand, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and depends on the financial support of private and corporate donors. It is The Strand’s mission to serve the community with cultural entertainment for a diverse audience and to promote economic health in the City of Marietta and Cobb County. For more information or tickets, visit www.EarlSmithStrand.org or the Box Office at 770-293-0080 or 117 North Park Square, Marietta, 30060. The Box Office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.; 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.; and two hours before the show.