Dueling pianos returning to Dunlap – Set for Feb. 27
Food, fundraising and favorites are on the menu
By JILL SCHABEN
For the Harrison County Times-Reporter
A high-energy night of music, food and community fundraising is planned as dueling pianos return to Dunlap this month. Andy Anderson and Mike Leeds will bring their interactive dueling piano show to the St. Patrick Parish Center on Feb. 27.
Doors open at 5 p.m., with food served at 6 p.m. and entertainment beginning at 7 p.m.
Several ticket options are available. VIP tables, priced at $600, seat up to eight people and include prime seating near the stage, a meal and the first drink for each guest provided by DCDC. Individual general admission tickets are available for $50 with a meal included or $30 without a meal.
Tickets may be purchased in advance through any DCDC board member: Julie Elder, Austin McDonald, Jake McAllister, Lisa Gross, Steve Puck, Jeni Martens, Kelsey Miller or Sam Cogdill.
For additional questions, email DunlapDCDC@gmail.com or call (712) 643-2164.
DCDC encourages attendees to arrive ready to request songs, sing along and enjoy an evening that blends entertainment with support for local organizations.
Known for engaging audiences through song requests and humor, the Midwest-based duo performs music ranging from 1950s classics to today’s Top 40 hits.
The pair has performed together for nearly two decades and has toured the Midwest with their dueling pianos act since 2008. Their shows feature fast-paced piano performances, audience participation and comedic onstage chemistry designed to keep crowds on their feet.
According to the performers’ website, “Our flavor of dueling pianos is simply all about interaction between the audience and us (two performers, two pianos). So with that being said, anything can happen, and lots of things do happen.” The site explains the show includes singing, dancing, clapping and audience-driven moments, emphasizing there are “no rules” and that requests are encouraged.
The musicians note that dueling pianos is not a competition between performers and that they are “not concert pianists,” adding that audiences are more likely to hear the Beatles than Beethoven. “We’re here to make your evening fun,” the website states.
The event is hosted by the Dunlap Community Development Corp., with proceeds supporting DCDC’s ongoing efforts to promote growth and vitality in the community. Proceeds from drink sales will benefit the Knights of Columbus.
“Not only have DCDC’s past dueling pianos events been some of the most fun I’ve ever had, the funds raised go on to support growth in our community,” said Austin McDonald, a DCDC board member and owner of Roberto’s Pizza. “It’s a win-win, and I encourage all to join in on the good cause and great time.”
McDonald helped create a special menu for the evening, offering guests a variety of heavy appetizers designed for a social, high-energy event. The menu includes a charcuterie spread, meatball marinara sliders, chicken Parmesan sliders, pretzel cheese-stuffed bites, cream cheese and pepper jelly bites, and soups.
