12th Annual First Night Danbury—

Ring In The New Year With All Your Might

DANBURY — The stars are out, new year is near, and CityCenter in downtown Danbury is inviting one and all to the entertainment event of the year. The 12th Annual First Night Danbury gala event features over 50 performers from local talents to performers from Boston and New York.

Musicians, comedians, dance, fireworks, karaoke and even a costume processional all make First Night a perfect way to ring in the new year in an alcohol-free atmosphere of family fun. Fireworks displays will be offered twice this year, at 7:30 and midnight.

Tiny tots will be tickled, and grownups alike may find their inner child giggling along with the silly rock n’ roll “Dinner Dogs” show, or caught up in the magic of Ted Lawrence’s mini circus. The former Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey talent will entertain all with daring acrobatic fetes, juggling, stilt walking, and more.

These are just a couple of the great shows that begin at 5 pm for the young and young at heart. Adults will find an amazing and entertaining collection of performances including Two Proper Ladies coming in from Boston offering up a comedic rendition of Victorian life and “Why you shouldn’t go to New York City on New Year’s Eve.”

For those who just need to sing, The Spin Doctor will be free with the mic with his “I Played the Palace” show, letting young and old let loose with karaoke fun.

Other musical performers at First Night will include Danbury MadHatters, a barbershop chorus; Kevin Briody, a folk singer and guitar player; The Easton Banjo Society; reggae band Hot Like Fire; The Deming Project, performing classical, rock jazz and blue grass; Nefresh, playing classics from Yiddish Theater; Diane Diachisin, performing Celtic music and her own creations; pianist Thomas Eckel; Hat City Doo Wop, offering up dance favorites; Trio di Camerati, performing classical ensemble music; The Chamber Singers, offering classical and light music; guitar player Bob Stanhope; and Gary & Barbara-Anne, offering up a lively country show.

Also at First Night will be the comedianne Nancy Tucker; children’s performers Robert Rogers Puppet Company; magicians Steve Charney & Harry; and The Singing Trainmen, with songs and stories about American history.

Admittance to the fun can be obtained through purchasing a First Night button at local business. Until December 31, buttons for adults are $8 and $5 for kids under 12 and seniors are 62 and over. On New Year’s Eve, buttons for adults will be $10 and the senior and children buttons will increase to $7.

For more information contact First Night headquarters at 792-5095.