People's Republic of Klezmerica

' The People’s Republic of Klezmerica have a growing following in Central Missouri and made quite an impression at our 2003 festival. Jordan Wax, bandleader of the energetic Klezmer group, is studying traditional music of various kinds, and has made fascinating parallels with hillbilly music both in Eastern Europe and the Ozarks. Recent projects include writing musical accompaniments to old silent movies, and last year they premiered their take on an old silent Jewish comedy, “Pass the Gravy.” Columbia named it one of its best musical events of the year.

Thespian Hall’s last use before the Friends of Historic Boonville saved it from the wrecking ball was as a movie theater, and it was known as the Lyric. We think returning an afternoon matinee to the hall would be great. The band, which includes Dean Anderson on violin, Laura Bettebhausen on clarinet, Charlotte Overby on bass, Josh Parshall on trumpet and percussionist Amy Salveter, will also open the Saturday evening show.

Big Muddy for other years