Two new bands will headline Historic Christ Church & Museum’s eighth annual “Raise the Roof” festival from 1-6 p.m. on Saturday, June 29. Held on the grounds near the 1735 Christ Church in Weems, the event features live music, Virginia craft beers, wine, barbecue or vegetarian, and homemade ice cream.
Opening the event is Fade to Blue, a blues band conceived by bassist Brian Eubanks. Comprised of seasoned musicians in the Hampton Roads area, Fade to Blue plays blues, soul, classic rock, jazz and fusion, according to Foundation for Historic Christ Church executive director Robert Teagle.
The second band will be the Richmond-based funk, R&B and soul band En’Novation, known for smooth vocals, harmonies and a charismatic stage presence that brings the crowd out on the dance floor. Frontman James “Petey” Taylor is En’Novation’s lead vocalist and trombone player. Taylor has performed professionally for over 35 years, including stints with the Waller Family and the band Casper.
Joining Taylor with lead vocals are Ashely Chanté, Levie Faison III, Nashana Ferguson-Tate, and Sugar Raye Smith (bassist). Rounding out the ensemble are keyboard maestro Donnie Arterbery, guitarist Shaun Lyda, drummer Benjamin Miles, and saxophonist Howard Smith, who has performed with nationally known artists The Temptations, The Platters, Frankie Valli and others.
Due to inclement weather, last fall’s “Raise the Roof” had to be rescheduled. Going forward the event will take place in June as a celebration to kick off the summer for locals, weekenders and out of town guests traveling to the Northern Neck, Teagle said.
Tickets are $60 for adults, $20 for ages 20 and under, and free for ages 5 and under. Tickets include two beer or wine tickets, one serving of Willaby’s BBQ or veggie fare with fixings, homemade ice cream from Short Lane in Gloucester, and a souvenir cup. Additional beverage and meal tickets can be purchases during the event, and soft drinks and water will be provided. No pets or coolers are permitted.
Corporate sponsors include Chesapeake Bank and Chesapeake Wealth Management; Clements Tent Rentals; Compass Entertainment; Connemara Corporation; Davenport & Company; Denhert, Clarke & Co.; Dredge; Golden Eagle golf course; Hanley Electrical; Indian Creek Yacht & Country Club, Mill Creek Geek LLC; Organic Green; Out of the Oven Bakery; The Local; The Office; The Tides Inn; Tri-Star, Two Rivers Communications; Walmart; Willaby’s; Wind Vineyards; and ZUNA Solar.
This annual fundraiser for Lancaster County’s only National Historic Landmark supports preservation and education programs at Historic Christ Church & Museum. To purchase tickets, visit ChristChurch1735.ticketleap.com.