2013 Season Recap

Posted on September 25, 2013

The 2013 summer series has come to an end and autumn is quickly approaching after a busy, lively and successful summer at the Scioto Mile. The two summer series — Rhythm on the River and FountainSide presented by American Electric Power and Sunny 95 (94.7FM) —partnered with 35 different local organizations to produce 19 afternoons and evenings full of a variety of activities, fountain play, music and dance performances.

Ten Rhythm on the River performances took place on the Bicentennial Park Performing Arts Pavilion, a state-of-the-art venue with architecture that reflects the design of the Scioto Mile Fountain. The evenings were full of talented artists and performers showcasing everything from local roots to international tours. From the world rock of Rusted Root to the high lonesome sound of Booker T. Jones and Peter Yarrow, to the blues style of Charlie Musslewhite and the elegant grace of BalletMet Columbus, the series brought something for everyone. The Golden Dragon Acrobats wowed the crowd with their award-winning acrobatics, traditional dance and spectacular costumes while Yumbambe! brought their hot Latin jazz after the community joined Mayor Michael B. Coleman for an evening bike ride through downtown. The series brought more than 30,000 people to Bicentennial Park; thank you to all who attended! Rhythm on the River would not be possible without the generous support of WCBE 90.5FM, ABC 6/FOX 28, Donatos, The Westin Columbus and the Scioto Mile Endowment Fund: Columbus Downtown Development Corporation.

Nine FountainSide afternoons offered water-themed play and fountain fun in and around the 15,000 square-foot Scioto Mile Fountain. This series enriches the lives of Columbus-area children through fun and educational programs encompassing art, crafts, music, dance, healthy living and physical fitness. Nearly 4,000 children made crafts with local arts organizations such as the Columbus Museum of Art and OSU Urban Arts Space, learned the health benefits of planting and harvesting locally grown food with Lowe’s Plant & Grow station and Local Matters, tested sports skills with Columbus Crew, Blue Jackets, and OSU sports, met the Turtle Lady, her scaly sidekicks and more. Attendees enjoyed free frozen treats from the Sunny 95/Meijer Treat Truck while they played and hopped around with the Fountain Frog. FountainSide is made possible through the generous support of American Electric Power, Sunny 95 (94.7FM) and Donatos.

Thank you again for yet another spectacular summer! We will see everyone in 2014!

BOOKER T. JONES | Click HERE for more photos from this performance