Celebrate America's Independance With Soulful Sounds of Motown

Marietta, Ga. (May 4, 2011) — The Earl Smith Strand Theatre is bringing Motown to Marietta this Fourth of July weekend featuring hits by Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Stevie Wonder, and a host of Motown greats.

"Our focus for Independence Day weekend this year is to celebrate music born in America, music still alive today," said Earl Reece, Strand director and show producer/director. "We've been enjoying Motown music for over 50 years, and still, young people today know the words to songs like ‘My Girl' and ‘Stop in the Name of Love.' Motown is truly America's music."

The Strand's Tribute to Motown musical revue will be a non-stop salute to some of the best music in the history of America. The show will tell the story of the origins of Motown, starting when Berry Gordy opened Motown Records in 1959 and posted a sign that proclaimed "Hitsville, U.S.A." There wasn't much of a reason to brag - yet. But soon his prediction came true. Emerging at the peak of the civil rights movement, Motown gave Americans everything they could want in music: anguish, romance, joy, and a reason to dance.

Tribute to Motown promises to be a show filled with fun and exciting memories of extraordinary Motown sounds. Patrons can move, dance, laugh, and romance to the vibes of Motown, Friday and Saturday, July 1 & 2 at 8 p.m. and Sunday and Monday, July 3 & 4 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 day of show.

The historic Earl Smith Strand Theatre is a multi-use performing arts and events facility. The theatre is governed by the Friends of The Strand, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and depends on the financial support of private and corporate donors. It is The Strand's mission to serve the community with cultural entertainment for a diverse audience and to promote economic health in the City of Marietta and Cobb County. For more information or tickets, visit www.EarlSmithStrand.org or the Box Office at 770-293-0080 or 117 North Park Square, Marietta, 30060. The Box Office is open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 12 PM; 1 PM to 4 PM; and two hours before the show.