CL Strikers Perform "Evening of Percussion" Saturday at the Raue Center

The Raue Center of the Arts has announced several annual community fundraisers will return to the stage over the next few months.

"At Raue Center's core we are a community-based organization and we try to keep that at the forefront of everything we do," said Alex McMillin, marketing and development coordinator for the Raue.

The first of those fundraisers is "An Evening of Percussion" at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 23, featuring the Crystal Lake Strikers all-star drumline.

The Strikers group is comprised of adult drummers and talented high school drummers from the community. Plus, young drummers from throughout the community will be joining the show.

The show benefits both the Crystal Lake Strikers and Raue Center while providing an evening of exciting entertainment.

As part of the night's events, the Strikers will award scholarships to high school performers pursuing music. Entering its fourth year, this annual fundraiser for Crystal Lake Strikers and Raue Center is always a hit, McMillin said.

The Crystal Lake Strikers marching percussion unit performs at sporting events, parades and festivals around the country. The group was formed in 2007 by Crystal Lake Mayor Aaron Shepley, Crystal Lake Councilman Brett Hopkins and Prairie Ridge Drumline instructor Thomas Kundmann.

The goal was to provide a performing outlet for drummers of college age and beyond plus support and educate aspiring young musicians.

Today, the group is comprised of collegiate level percussionists and individuals from championship drum corps. The Strikers have numerous awards across the country, McMillin said.

With their retro bowling shirts and zebra-skinned drums, the performers have become one the most sought-after groups today, McMillin said.

__________________________________________________________

The attached YouTube video shows the Strikers performing at the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2011.      __________________________________________________________

"An Evening of Percussion" is appropriate for all ages. The show makes for a fun and affordable night out for the whole family.

Tickets are $12 for adults, $5 for ages 8 and up; free under 7. 

Tickets can be purchased online at www.RAUECENTER.ORG, or via the Box Office at 815-356-9212, or 26 N. Williams Street in downtown Crystal Lake.