Mix of blues, country and hula-hooping set for the Paramount

One of the biggest events in Austin is set to ring in the new year.

The Paramount Theatre’s annual New Year’s Eve show will offer a little bit of everything to residents this year. Many local performers will be on hand to demonstrate everything from blues, country and rock to a little piano, some yodeling, and even a hula-hoop demonstration.

“It definitely showcases the amount of talent we have in the community,” said Jennie Knoebel, executive director of the Paramount.

Among the show’s performers is former Miss Austin Deb Nordland, who will showcase her yodeling and singing skills. Tori Dean, the Hula Queen, will be on hand to showcase her impressive hula-hoop juggling skills, as well.

The show is reminiscent of an Ed Sullivan-style variety show, according to promoter Denny Charnecki, and a marked departure from last year’s country show. While last year’s show drew hundreds to the Paramount, Charnecki wanted to appeal to a broad audience this year, and even attract some of Austin’s younger residents with blues, jazz, and rock performances.

“We have so many people in town,” Charnecki said.

The show takes place at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 31. Tickets are $14 in advance, $16 at the door.

 

A ‘Dance Party’

Charnecki and the DC Drifters will take the stage at the Paramount soon after, at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 5, for a “Dance Party” in tribute to Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and The Big Bopper.

Though it’s similar to the tribute show the DC Drifters did in 2011, Charnecki said, the upcoming performance is re-tooled with a few new song selections. Moreover, the performance is a sneak peak of the DC Drifters performance at the annual Winter Dance Party at the Surf Ballroom at the end of January. The Surf’s theme this year is the British Invasion, with musicians like Peter Asher, Denny Laine of The Moody Blues & Wings, and Eric Burdon & The Animals set to perform. Gary Busey is also expected to appear at “The Buddy Holly Story” Sat. Feb. 2, at the Surf, as well.

Charnecki said the DC Drifters were honored to play at the Surf once again.

“That show is solid, with all those names,” Charnecki said.

Tickets to the Jan. 5 show are $14 for adults in advance, $16 at the door.