The familiar faces of The Paisley Pickles have been a staple in downtown Haddonfield for many events. Comprised of Haddonfield residents Frank Dellorco, Paul Bartholomew and Mark Companile, this musical trio is taking their pickle antics to the Big Apple for a New York Strong Kids Campaign benefit concert at Marjorie S. Deane Little Theater on Sept. 28.
Dellorco said that the opportunity to join the Strong Kids Campaign benefit concert came after playing a three-day showcase in New York City last year for the Association of Performing Arts Presenters conference, when an event promoter approached the band in regard to playing the benefit concert.
“We try to latch on to kid–oriented charities,” Dellorco said, explaining that with all three members being parents, the opportunity was a no-brainer. “I think experiences like this one just seemed kind of neat because it’s just something that really hit home for us.”
The New York Strong Kids Campaign aims to make YMCA programs available to local children, even if their family may be limited financially.
It wasn’t too much later, Dellorco said, when the event promoter called and formally invited The Paisley Pickles to join the docket — along with Brooklyn-based kid’s band, Moona Luna.
With the proceeds of the concert contributing to the Strong Kids Campaign, the YMCA also will be hosting a silent auction during the benefit concert.
“I think it will be a blast,” Dellorco said. “It’s a good excuse to take the trip up to NYC.”
Promising to have plenty in store, Dellorco said the fans can expect to hear some of their new material as well as some songs from their newly released album, “Welcome to Planet Snarfbart.” Of course, The Paisley Pickles will also be bringing some of their slapstick skits with them to incorporate into their show.
“We got some more hands-on interaction with the kids that we’re going to have to prep for, but not too much more than a usual show,” Dellorco said.
Following the 40-minute set, The Paisley Pickles will also organize a meet and greet, for even more interaction with their young audience.
The band focuses mainly on kids’ music, ranging from rock and roll to jazz to punk rock — playing everything from an accordion to a ukulele.
“We have 12 kids between the three of us, so we’re well-qualified in that area,” Dellorco said.
Back in 2009, the group was spotted by local entertainment manager of Jane Mathers Management and Director of First Night Haddonfield Jane Mathers while performing in downtown Haddonfield. Since then, Mathers has managed the band, which she says has grown substantially in the five years she has known them. She also mentions that it is an advantage managing a band so close to her.
“It’s nice to have a local band to work with since I live here,” Mathers said.
The concert is slated for Saturday, Sept. 28 at 10:30 a.m. in the historical Marjorie S. Deane Little Theater located between Broadway and Central Park West at 5W and 63rd Street.
For ticket information, please visit the The Paisley Pickles website at www.thepaisleypickles.com.
