Despite the bleak sociopolitical climate nationally, there’s a big reason for Rhode Islanders to get excited about 2017. Thanks to the East Providence City Council’s unanimous approval, Bold Point Park is going to be electrified with live music next summer.
The live music series is the result of a partnership between Waterfront Productions (which produced concerts at the Newport Yachting Center until 2014) and national entertainment giant Live Nation. Located along the shore of upper Narragansett Bay, the space will host events with a capacity of 3,500 through a seasonal lease that runs from May to October.
The lease is expected to run for three years with 20 to 30 events taking place annually, though as the Providence Journal reports, no “permanent structures” will be built on site. Either way, this news is another example of the Ocean State’s reinvigoration and continued growth when it comes to music and providing a place to see it in person.
“The East Providence waterfront is a perfect location for a new seasonal event venue with stunning views of the Providence skyline, the Providence River and Narragansett Bay,” Waterfront Productions owner, president, and CEO Michele Maker Palmieri tells Vanyaland. “It is very accessible from all points of the state, right off I-195. The city and residents of East Providence are invested in revitalizing the waterfront district and this development of a world class venue will help pollinate a thriving arts and culture community.”
The music programming coming to Bold Point Park is expected to be varied across the board.
“We will program a diverse and eclectic lineup including popular music, blues, mainstream and classic rock, alternative, singer/songwriter, reggae, and world music,” says Palmieri. “Large scale events include our Waterfront Reggae Festival, the International Oktoberfest, a Blues & BBQ Jam, and a Celtic Rock Festival.”
More announcements and the first batch of shows at Bold Point Park are expected to be revealed in the coming months.
Follow Rob Duguay on Twitter @RobDuguay. Featured photo via Newport Waterfront Events.