The Boogie Band (we were told) won awards as one of the top theme park bands. The band was full of energy and really got the crowds energized. It is now gone.
The Starlight Orchestra performed all the old big band classics from Glenn Miller, Count Basie, and others. Many of us would drive over an hour on weekends just to see the hour long dance sets. The Starlight Orchestra totally changed last year. It became a cheesy production show. This year it is totally gone. If anyone knows where these musicians are now playing, please tell me. I will gladly buy a season pass there.
Is anyone else disappointed by Busch's decision to get rid of these great musicians, singers, and dancers? I'm sure I'm not the only one. Please reply here. Please also phone, writ or email Busch to let them know your opinion. Their contact info is found here.
http://www.themeparkinsider.com/reviews/how_to_contact_various_theme_parks/
InBev has been slashing costs at the AB parks since the merger. It figures that they would cut back in the entertainment department. Probably replaced them with a singer singing to a CD. Somehow I doubt they will be back if the park stays under the current ownership.
Statement from Scott Gasparich, vice president of entertainment for Busch Gardens in Williamsburg
Over the past several days, I have received phone calls and e-mails from Busch Gardens’ fans concerning a perceived reduction in the number of musicians used for in-park entertainment productions.
I would like to set the record straight.
With the addition of seasonal offerings during Howl-O-Scream and the upcoming Christmas Town events, our musicians are, in fact, increasing by 22 percent over the 2008 season.
Busch Gardens in Williamsburg prides itself on the high-quality entertainment options offered at the park. Musical performances and stage productions are an integral part of the experience guests expect when they visit. As in any production, variety is important. Reconfiguring shows and, in some cases, eliminating others paves the way for new and exciting opportunities that keep the park’s content fresh.
Live music is a strong element of our park experience. This season we’ve enhanced, diversified, and integrated live musicians throughout the park. By way of example, a new jazz band in France opens this week, something we have never had at the park before. We’ve introduced a musician-percussion group that has been well received by our guests. We incorporated live musicians in our new Goin’ Country show, replacing a recorded soundtrack used in previous years. And with the introduction of Festivale Italiano!, we have live musicians on stage and performing throughout the village of San Marco multiple times daily.
As you can see live music is important to Busch Gardens, and will continue to play a valuable role in the future.
