By Staff
Bagpipers, fiddlers among performers
By KEVIN SCOTT CUTLER
Staff Writer
Alton Tisdale brought a bit of Ireland and Scotland to downtown Washington Friday evening, entertaining the crowds with Celtic music during the first Music in the Streets of the 2007 season.
A junior at Washington High School, Tisdale was introduced to music by his parents and he said he’s teaching himself to play the fiddle and guitar. This was his first time performing during Music in the Streets.
The money isn’t bad either, he said with a smile, nodding at a tip jar near his feet. A sign on the jar bore the message, “Help send me to college.”
Further down Main Street, Gary Tomasulo was watching with satisfaction as crowds passed by. He serves as president of the Historic Downtown Washington Merchants Association, which sponsors Music in the Streets in partnership with the Beaufort County Arts Council.
Tomasulo wasn’t the only one pleased with the turnout.
Dawn Benthall, owner of The Pink Petal, was equally enthusiastic about the return of Music in the Streets.
Washington resident David McLawhorn and his young daughters Megan and Anna were among those in the crowd.
His daughters couldn’t agree on what they liked best about Music in the Streets. Anna said she liked the music and Megan preferred shopping.
While merchants offered a variety of wares, musical performances included bagpipers, gospel singers, rock bands, comedy by members of the Pamlico Playhouse and couples shagging to beach music favorites.
Organizers said they were encouraged by Friday’s turnout.
The next Music in the Streets is scheduled for May 18. Area entertainers interested in performing should contact Leary through the Beaufort County Arts Council, 946-2504, or by e-mail at romanleary@yahoo.com.