Musical Lineup Announced for May 22nd Atlanta Downtown Festival

May 7,2010

On Saturday, May 22 from noon until midnight, the 9th annual Atlanta Downtown Festival will be held on West Peachtree Place, also the location of Social Resto Café Bar , one of the festival’s main sponsors.

Social Resto’s owner, Rheda (Ray) Chikhaoui, announced the different bands and musicians who will perform live at the May 22 festival. They are:

1 PM Jazz by Moonlight – Jazz

2 PM Demic – Hip Hop

3 PM The Justin Chesarek Quintet – Jazz

4 PM Prueba A.D.N. La Banda del Rock – Alternative / Rock / Latin

5 PM Infinity Show Band – Funk Beat

6 PM Caló Gitano Flamenco Dance Company and Academy

7 PM DJ Salah Ananse featuring The Ananse Scales Rebellion

9:30 PM Papa Fall – Sabar, traditional Senegalese music from Dakar

11 PM Raigwana - Algerian & Moroccan Mystical Rhythm

In addition to these magnificent artists, Chikhaoui also confirmed the participation of Maduka Oshima from Japan who will perform Nina Simone and Billie Holiday songs at the piano, as well as Chris Lord, playing the accordion, who will share chansons by Jacques Brel and Serge Gainsbourg, famous French chanson singers.

“We are so honored to present these vibrant, accomplished international musicians,” smiles Chikhaoui. “At the Downtown Festival, we’ll celebrate Atlanta’s mix of cultures through different music, food, art and performances – just like we do in our restaurant!”

In addition to live music, festival events will include a visual artist market, food and drink tastings and other activities designed to showcase the vitality of Atlanta’s downtown and the joy of downtown living.
Also returning this year is the popular Rooftop Tour. The 2010 tour, “The Top of Atlanta,” will feature downtown rooftops, unveiling swimming pools, gardens, and of course, incredible views, and many of the tour stops will feature wine tastings, music, or food samplings.

Another highlight of the 9th annual Atlanta Downtown Festival will be the return of the Scavenger Hunt, which was a great success when introduced last year. The Scavenger Hunt will be a unique way to highlight downtown Atlanta’s wide range of hidden surprises such as historical sites, parks, architectural gems, restaurants and eateries in the area.

For additional information or to investigate additional sponsorship opportunities during the Festival, please contact Robyn Jackson at 404-886-6443, atlrobyn@hotmail.com or check www.atlantadna.org.
.jpg photos available upon request