MUSIC

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation showcases a 10-concert series in the Village

The Destin Log
Concerts will be held in the Village in Destin off Commons Drive every Thursday evening beginning April 4.

The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) will kick off its 2024 Concerts in the Village on April 4.  

The area’s first live concert series is held each spring on Thursday evenings at the MKAF Dugas Pavilion in Destin. This year’s 29th annual family friendly series will run April 4 to June 6. The 10-concert live music series will feature premier regional and national musicians and bands performing everything from rhythm & blues, classic and hard rock to disco to modern pop.  

Here’s a closer look at the lineup: 

#1 - April 4 - Postmodern Jukebox

One part celebration of vintage music and culture, one part "Saturday Night Live" for singers, a Postmodern Jukebox show is an unforgettable trip back in time. Tickets are $35 adults/$30 active-duty military. 

The 10-concert series at the MKAF Village in Destin begins on April 4. Tables can be purchased in advance.

#2 - April 11 - Wendy Moten

Wendy Moten from "The Voice" is from Memphis and is an American R&B-infused pop singer based in Nashville. Best known for the UK hit "Come In Out Of The Rain," Moten has released major-label solo records, achieved international hits and toured extensively. At 56, she took a bold step, entering "The Voice" and finishing as the runner-up. Tickets are $25 adults/$20 active-duty military in advance.  

#3 - April 18 - Black Jacket Symphony

Black Jacket Symphony presents Prince’s "Purple Rain." Celebrate the 40th anniversary of Prince’s most celebrated album, performed from start to finish. Doors open at 6 p.m. and concerts start at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 adults/$30 active-duty military in advance.  

#4 - April 25 - Yacht Rock Revue

These musicians have performed with John Oates and Eddie Money and now headline their own sold-out shows, playing the smooth sounds of West Coat 1970s and ‘80s. Doors open at 6 p.m. and concerts start at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 adults/$30 active-duty military in advance.  

#5 - May 2 - The Mulligans

The Emerald Coast-based band, founded by Edwin Watts, plays hits from The Beatles, Tom Petty, Eric Clapton, Elvis, the Eagles, Bee Gees, the Ventures, Rolling Stones, Buddy Holly, The Monkees, Roy Orbison, Moody Blues, Young Rascals, Billy Joel, The Outsiders and many others. Doors open at 6 p.m. and concerts start at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 adults/$20 active-duty military.  

The 10-concert series in the Village in Destin begins April 4. The concerts are held every Thursday evenings.

#6 - May 9 - Rumours ATL

This Fleetwood Mac tribute takes the stage May 9. Doors open at 6 p.m. and concerts start at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 adults/$20 active-duty military in advance.  

#7 - May 16 - Gotta Groove Band

Gotta Groove Band, from Land O Lakes, Florida, will put a fresh spin on popular cover tunes from the 1960s to today. Tickets are $25 adults/$20 active-duty military. 

#8 - May 23 - Mitch Malloy

The former front man of Great White, rocker Mitch Malloy is a studio veteran and award-winning songwriter. Doors open at 6 p.m. and concerts start at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 adults/$30 active-duty military in advance.  

#9 - May 30 - Haley Reinhart

Haley Reinhart's timeless voice will transport you, blending pop, rock and jazz. A finalist on "American Idol", this Chicago-born singer is influenced by 1950s music and enjoys playful lyrics. Doors open at 6 p.m. and concerts start at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 adults/$30 active-duty military in advance.   

#10 - June 6 - Adam Ezra Group

Adam Ezra Group closes out the series. Fusing folk intimacy and rock energy with soul power and pop charm, the band first emerged from Boston in the early 2000s and quickly garnered widespread acclaim. Tickets are $25 adults/$20 active-duty military. 

Things to know before you go:

Gates open at 6 p.m. with concerts beginning at 7 p.m. Bring a lawn chair, picnic, wine, or purchase food and beverages on site. A drawing will be held at each concert to award valuable raffle prizes donated by local businesses.  

The concerts in the Village are great time for family and fun.

General admission varies per concert. Prices range from $20 to $35 for adults. Discounts offered for active-duty military (must show ID). New this year: Patrons purchasing tickets in advance of concert day will save $5 per ticket. Children (12 and younger) are free. A limited number of VIP tables (reserved table for eight guests for the entire season) are available for $2,250. Corporate VIP tables are $2,750. 

Proceeds will fund the MKAF’s community outreach mission to provide cultural outreach programs through ArtsReach serving K-12 students, adults and children with special needs, at-risk youth, and through MKAF’s Warrior Arts program serving active/veteran military. 

Purchase tickets online at MKAF.org/events. More at (850) 650-2226.