March 28, 2024

Family-friendly fun offered with movie, music in Maytag Park

Slipstream kicks off week of entertainment Thursday

Summer time is synonymous with family outings, music, big blockbusters, picnics and fun. Thanks to the City of Newton Parks Department, area residents can enjoy all those things during several free events hosted at Maytag Park.

The fun begins Thursday when popular area band Slipstream takes the stage from 7 to 9 p.m. at Maytag Bowl. The group, which performs classic and current rock, features Tim Dawson, Kim DeGraff, Dave Heck, Rick Maly, Kimberly Schnell, Dean Stonner and Randy Wadle.

“Slipstream is one of the most well-known local bands,” said Nathan Unsworth, City of Newton Parks Administrative Superintendent. “They are former Eight Track Band members, so they have been playing together for several years. They know how to put on a fun and entertaining show.”

The second event will be a 30th anniversary showing of “The Goonies.” Rated PG, “The Goonies” is about two brothers who learn the family home may be lost to foreclosure. In an effort to keep from losing their home they along with their friends go on a treasure hunt. “The Goonies” will begin at 9 p.m. Saturday at the Maytag Bowl.

“I love the fact that Newton is making more family-friendly events,” said Crystal Rivera of Newton, who plans on attending the movie with her husband and two children. “I loved ‘The Goonies’ movie as a kid and I am hoping my kids will find it equally as entertaining. Who wouldn’t right, with maps, pirates and treasure? It also is fun for me to get out with some of my local friends with children of similar ages. I fully support these types of community-building events.”

The entertainment concludes July 30, when Dueling Pianos and Party! Party! take the stage. Dueling Pianos with Andy Anderson and Mike Leeds is a popular duo that has been part of the concert in the park series since its inception. For their latest performance, the duo are being accompanied by Party! Party! The Ultimate Karaoke Band, featuring Nick Borror on bass and vocals, Joe Kiplinger on guitar and Josh Ickowitz on drums.

“We have invited the dueling pianos because they are a fun group with a lot of energy,” Unsworth said. “They are such a fun group that everyone leaves with a smile on their face. They are, by far, the most popular act each year.”

Dueling Pianos and Party! Party! will perform at the Maytag Bowl at 7 p.m. Those attending are encouraged to come ready to dance and have fun, along with having a few favorite songs in mind to request.

“It is just a great evening and one that is on our calendar every year,” said Kelly Zach of Newton. “I am very excited to see how the added musicians and instruments will enhance just a fantastic fun night. Dueling Pianos is one of Newton Park and Recreations wonderful offering to all families in the community. We love all the Thursday night entertainment options during the summer.”

Admission to all three of the events is free, and all ages are welcome to attend. Those attending are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets to sit on, snacks and some bug spray.

“These free community events are to encourage people to get out and enjoy our wonderful parks, especially, the beautiful renovated Fred Maytag Bowl,” Unsworth said. “One of the goals set by the park board a few years ago was to expand programming efforts in our city parks. These events along with Fourth of July and some of the programs and events we host are all part of the effort to bring more people to our parks.”