In the past four years, Visalia-based Rainmaker Productions have brought 20 internationally touring musical artists and comedians to downtown Visalia. In just four years, their shows have sold more than 15,000 tickets for acts like Morrissey, Foreigner, Audra McDonald and more. And one more thing, the majority of their shows are fundraisers for local non-profit organizations. In just a few weeks, they will be hosting two new artists and one familiar, funny face at the Visalia Fox Theatre.
It was on the 2nd of February 1968 at the world-famous Marquee Club in Wardour Street that Jethro Tull first performed under that name. The group would go on to bEcome one of the most successful and enduring bands of their era, selling over 60 million albums worldwide and entering the cultural collective consciousness along the way.
To celebrate this golden anniversary, Ian Anderson will present 50 years of Jethro Tull on June 5 as part of the worldwide touring schedule. Tickets went on sale on Friday, November 17 and there are less than 200 seats still available.
Anderson says: “I am not usually a birthday or anniversary kind of guy but, just for once, I won’t be a party-pooper either! I treasure the memories of the earlier years of Jethro Tull repertoire, associated as it is with the adventures of visiting so many countries for the first time to connect with new fans around the world. And this is a celebration of all the 33 band members who graced our ranks – musicians who brought their talents, skills and styles to bear on the performances live and in the studio. Join me and the current band for a nostalgic evening of varied music, representative of my ever-changing songwriting as our careers progressed through the years.”
Ian Anderson is accompanied by Tull band musicians David Goodier (bass), John O’Hara (key-boards), Florian Opahle (guitar), Scott Hammond (drums) and surprise virtual guests. A portion of the proceeds from their Visalia stop benefits Visalia Emergency Aid.
Five days after Tull takes the stage, comedian Brian Regan will make his fourth appearance on the Fox stage on Sunday, June 10. All three of his previous Fox appearances have sold out. “Regan was the first comedy show I ever promoted back in 2012,” Rainmaker partner, Ryan Stillwater, said.
“I don’t usually take selfies backstage with the artists, but come on…it’s Brian Regan!”
Stillwater isn’t the only fan willing to voice some praise. From Regan’s biography: “A regular on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Brian is the unique comedian whose material is relatable to generations of fans and revered by comedians as the best in the business.”
“He is one of my favorite, favorite stand-up comedians.” – Jerry Seinfeld
“No comedian in the world says, ‘Yeah, I want to follow Brian Regan.’” – Chris Rock
“Brian Regan is one of my favorite comedians ever. He is unbelievably funny.” – Jimmy Fallon
If classic rock and comedy aren’t your cup of tea, multi-platinum selling acclaimed singer, LeAnn Rimes is bringing an intimate acoustic performance to the Fox on Friday, June 22. Globally, she has sold more than 44 million units, won two Grammy® Awards; 12 Billboard Music Awards; two World Music Awards; three Academy of Country Music Awards; one Country Music Association Award and one Dove Award. At 14, Rimes won “Best New Artist” making her the youngest re-cipient of a Grammy® Award.
“Just jump on YouTube and watch the first LeAnn Rimes video that comes up,” Rainmaker part-ner, Mike Cavale, encouraged. “That girl has been singing her whole life and has collaborated on beautiful duets with Chris Isaak, Reba McEntire, Gavin DeGraw and others. This is going to be such a treat.”
Tickets are on sale now and this show is expected to sell out as well. A portion of the proceeds benefit The Creative Center Foundation.
For tickets and information, go to visaliaconcerts.com or call the Fox box office at 625-1FOX (1369).