Prince Project paints Woodward 'purple' in January

MOUNT VERNON – The Woodward Opera House in downtown Mount Vernon is ready to transport eventgoers back to the ‘80s with The Prince Project: A Prince and the Revolution Tribute Band on Friday, Jan. 14, at 8 p.m.; doors open at 7 p.m.

With lead singer and entertainer Shane Golden, guests will feel like they’re in the audience at Prince’s acclaimed “Purple Rain” concert. Golden has performed across the U.S. in local, regional and national productions and shows. He is a former contestant on the hit TV show "American Idol," where he was a Top 40 performer. After being discovered by a national talent scout, Golden competed in the Arts International Showcase in Orlando, in which he won individual best overall adult actor, TV commercial actor, Creative Runway Model, and Improv categories. Golden is also acting in movies across the U.S. His two most recent films are Netflix’ “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” produced by Denzel Washington and starring Viola Davis, and “Sweet Girl” starring Jason Momoa.

Backed up by musicians playing the roles of Wendy (Lea Nesbit, guitar and backing vocals), Dr. Fink (Michael Lesko, keyboards and backing vocals), Bobby Z (Dave Fox, drummer), Dez Dickerson (Wayne Smith, lead guitar) and Brownmark (Stefan Johnson, bass guitar and backing vocals), Golden will play all of Prince's most memorable early ‘80s music – authentic to the original Revolution in every way. Together with a light show, costume changes, giveaways and audience interaction, this 2 1/2-hour authentic “purple” experience is like no other tribute band on the market.

The event will also include a photo opportunity with Prince’s motorcycle, which will be on display in the promenade, and a cash/credit bar.

Tickets are $30 general admission; the main floor is open for dancing with limited seating and balcony seating will be open. To learn more or to purchase tickets, visitthewoodward.org or call the Mount Vernon Arts Consortium box office at 740-462-4278.

The Woodward Opera House is the oldest authentic 19th Century theater still standing in the U.S. Built by Ebenezer Woodward, the first event was held there in 1851. His vision was to create a gathering space for the community to enjoy a variety of entertainment. Restoration efforts begin in the late 1990s, and the building reopened for its first show in more than 100 years in February 2019, an effort of more than 20 years and $21 million.