See You This Summer: Starship, Cheap Trick Join REO in Concert Series

Are you ready to rock, New Lenox?

Mayor Tim Baldermann made the rumors official Monday night at the Village Board meeting and announced that Jefferson Starship and Cheap Trick will join REO Speedwagon this summer, each headlining one of the Triple Play Concert Series shows. The schedule is:

• Jefferson Starship: Saturday, June 4, 9 p.m.
• Cheap Trick: Saturday, Aug. 6, 9 p.m.
• REO Speedwagon: Saturday, Sept. 3, 9 p.m.

All shows are held on the Village Commons, and the park will open at 5:30 p.m. before the show.

"I would anticipate people will show up pretty early to get good seats" Baldermann said.

Tickets go on sale to people who live in the 60451 zip code March 14 for $50, covering all three shows. After April 30, tickets will be available to everyone for $60. Baldermann said it's possible there would be discounted single-day tickets the day of the show, but that "I wouldn't wait on them. This is going to be a hot ticket."

People who attend the show won't be able to bring their own food or drinks, but local businesses will be vending at the shows.

The classic rock groups are consistent with past Triple Play concerts, with Blue Oyster Cult, Kansas and Survivor having performed at the Commons in the past. In a previous article, it's hard to get big-name country acts like some residents have asked for.

Instead, Baldermann said one night's opening bands—likely the June 4 show—would be dedicated to country acts. There are typically a couple opening acts before the headliner, and local bands are often given preference.

Baldermann said the opening bands haven't been decided yet, but that the village has interest from 30 diverse groups and is sorting through the options.