Award-winning children’s musician to perform Saturday at Maytag Bowl

Come one, come all to Kid-poolza featuring children’s musical artist Justin Roberts Saturday at the Maytag Bowl.

The free family event starts at 5:30 p.m. with Roberts taking the stage at 7 p.m. and rocking the bowl with his lively, energetic show. The event is sponsored by Clemon-Maki Insurance and West Bend Insurance along with the Newton YMCA.

“We have lots of fun activities planned including appearances by Batman and Wonder Woman from the Iowa League of Heroes, sponsored by Skiff hospital, a balloon artist and concessions available from Newton Christian School and EATS Food Truck,” YMCA Membership Director Karen Parman said. “This is going to be a great event for the whole family, so help spread the word and let’s welcome Justin Roberts Newton Iowa-style.”

Roberts began his music career in the Minneapolis-based indie-rock band Pimentos for Gus. For a day job, he began teaching at a preschool and found he was starting to write and sing songs for a new audience — his students.

With a positive response from the kids, he decided to record a few songs and send them to friends, which led to a former college buddy and music producer suggesting he record them professionally.

Releasing his first CD in 1997, Roberts has been performing ever since, much to the delight of children around the country. In 2001, he hit the road full-time and has played venues such as New York City’s Symphony Space, Washington D.C.’s National Geographic Live, Los Angeles’ Getty Museum and Lollapalooza.

He has also been featured on “The Today Show,” Nick Jr. and his song “Get Me Some Glasses” was played on a World Series broadcast.

The two-time Grammy nominee performs with The Not Ready for Naptime Players and is known to have people on their feet jumping, dancing and bouncing off of each other like bumper cars. His songs explore the joy and freedom of recess, the marvels of imagination and the unique combination of melancholy and wonder as school finally lets out for the summer.

For more information about the event, contact the YMCA at 641-792-4006. In case of rain, the event will be moved to the Newton High School Auditorium, 800 E. Fourth St. S.

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com