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Glen Burtnik's 18th Xmas Xtravaganza
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Count Basie Theatre
Red Bank, NJ
Tickets onsale now!
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Tribute to Bernie Brausewetter
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Behind the scenes - 2005 Xmas Xtravaganza
Glen Burtnik's XMAS XTRAVAGANZA
is an annual holiday concert which benefits area food banks and other worthwhile charities. The show has grown larger each year, evolving into a New York-New Jersey area tradition not to be missed.
It features a colorful cast of characters which changes from year to year, but in the past has included such luminaries as Patty Smyth, John McEnroe, Phoebe Snow, Marshall Crenshaw, The Patti Smith Band, Fred Schneider (B-52's), Jill Sobule, Idina Menzel, Jeffrey Gaines, Freedy Johnston, Steve Augeri (Journey), Dan Bern, John Waite, Curtis Stigers, STYX, Mary Lee Kortes, and Willie Nile, among others. Last year's show featured over 100 performers.
Originally started in 1989, the show has been held every year except 1990 & 91, making the 2008 Xmas Xtravanganza the 18th Anniversary of this event.
It's a celebration of the music of the season, says Burtnik, which I've always found a magically effective genre. Once I realized it was a worthwhile undertaking, I decided it'd be most appropriate to the spirit of the show to give the profit to people in need. I take the overall show as a great compliment, that all these amazing artists, assistants and technicians donate time for no pay so I can raise some money for local charities. This is a blessing I do not take lightly. That the audience brings so many giant Hefty bags full of canned food, warm clothes and toys so my family and I can distribute them to soup kitchens and family shelters - simply because I ASK, is a gesture which causes me to tear up."
This show really had it all the most elaborate show. - The Star Ledger, on the 2004 show
An extremely special show and a labor of love. - Asbury Park Press, on the 2004 show
Rockin a little wacky and plenty sweet. - Home News Tribune, on the 2004 show
A benefit for New Jersey food banks, Elijah's Promise in New Brunswick, and other worthwhile charities. Audience members are encouraged to contribute warm clothes, new toys and canned food for those less fortunate.
