The Music Of Bobby Darin In A Land Trust Fundraiser

BRIDGEWATER — The Bridgewater Land Trust, Inc, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the unique character of Bridgewater and the surrounding areas, will be sponsoring “Up The Lazy River: Remembering Bobby Darin,” a 1950s retro evening and tribute to the late singer Bobby Darin, on Saturday, July 23.

The benefit, which includes, dinner, music and dancing with a 1950s beat, will take place from 7 to 11:30 pm, at The Pavilion on Sarah Sanford Road (off Route 133).

Singer Rob Zappulla and his 16-piece orchestra will perform all the finger-snappin’, up-tempo smash hits of the late Bobby Darin, including “Mack The Knife,” “Dream Lover,” “Clementine” and “Beyond the Sea.” Mr Zappulla also will be swingin’ the classics in Darin’s inimitable style — “Sunday in New York,” “That Funny Feeling,” “Blue Skies” and “Lazy River,” for starters.

Mr Zappulla, who plays the big-band circuit in Connecticut and who took center stage at the Land Trust’s “A Night Out — The Old Fashioned Way” last summer, recently sang to President George W. Bush and his wife in the Texas-Wyoming Room at the Inaugural Ball in Washington, D.C., with the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra.

As for the dress code, attendees are asked to dress “summer casual” or in the spirit of the 1950s era (i.e., party dresses and poodle skirts for the ladies, and James Dean-style leather jackets or sports jackets for the men).

The benefit will also include a raffle of “retro” items, including Bobby Darin memorabilia (including an autographed record album, rare press photos, and original movie posters), and a pink princess telephone. All proceeds will benefit the preservation goals of The Bridgewater Land Trust.

“The Land Trust has an important mission: To help preserve the look of our community. Our town and this part of Connecticut are under attack as urbanization spreads and devours our open spaces,” says Bridgewater Land Trust President Kevin Alldred. “By attending this event, and by bringing your friends, you will not just have a fun evening but will also help the Bridgewater Land Trust achieve its goals.”

Tickets are $75 per person, and are on sale now. Space is limited so reservations are being suggested. Send a check or money order payable to The Bridgewater Land Trust, PO Box 8, Bridgewater CT 06752. Only a limited number of tickets will also be available at the night of the performance.

For more event details, call Liz Alldred at 860-354-7724 or Julie Stuart at 860-355-4638.