Features
Introducing ‘Front Row Center’
A new concert series will launch next month on public television stations featuring performances from The Beach Boys, O.A.R., Colbie Caillat and Train.
“Front Row Center” is filmed in front of a live audience at venues including New York City’s historic St. Ann’s Warehouse in Brooklyn and the Roseland Ballroom in Manhattan.
“Capturing the magic and power of a live concert, ‘Front Row Center’ offers fans a high quality program and a unique experience that transports the viewer from their living room to the concert hall,” executive producer Don Maggi said.
Photo: Jason Moore
"Stagecoach: California’s Country Music Festival," Empire Polo Field, Indio, Calif.
The 10-episode premier season begins April 5 with The Secret Sisters showing off tunes from their self-titled 2010 debut as well as a few covers. Special guests joining the duo include T Bone Burnett, Elvis Costello and Jakob Dylan.
April 12 features Colbie Caillat. Phil Collins and his 2010 album Going Back star on April 19’s episode. Collins will be backed by three members of Motown’s The Funk Brothers (Bob Babbitt on bass and guitarists Eddie Willis and Ray Monette) in addition to two musicians from Genesis live shows – Chester Thompson on drums and Darryl Stuermer on guitar.
April 26 is Train, May 3 is Moby (joined by singers Inyang Bassey and Kelli Scarr) and May 10 is Cheap Trick.
Photo: Joey Foley
Conseco Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Ind.
O.A.R. takes the stage May 17, Ben Harper and Relentless 7 play May 24, and Richard Marx performs May 31 along with a few special guests including Tony Award winner Hugh Jackman and former N’ Sync lead singer J.C. Chasez.
June 7 celebrates The Beach Boys’ 50th anniversary with never-before-seen archival concert footage and songs from the band’s new album.
The episodes each run one hour long with the exception of “The Beach Boys: Summer’s Gone” episode, which is 90 minutes.
“Front Row Center” is an HD Ready production in association with WLIW21 for WNET. The show comes from the producers of the acclaimed PBS music series “Soundstage” and is distributed by American Public Television. Viewers should check their local listings for show times.