Janet Burgan to lead off Meadow Party

MILANVILLE, PA — The Delaware Highlands Conservancy will present an eclectic and entertaining lineup at the Eighth Annual Meadow Party on Saturday, September 18 from 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m. Janet Burgan, who’s voice has been called “nothing less than a vocal lava flow” by Joe Del Priore of The Hudson Current, will kick off the festivities.

After studying music and voice in college, Burgan appeared in musical theater roles in “Guys and Dolls” and “Man of La Mancha” in Boston, MA. She subsequently moved to New York and quickly became involved in the live music scene, where she added electric bass and acoustic guitars to her instrument arsenal. Burgan recorded a self-titled album in 1997 and “The Coyote Sessions” in 2000.

Also appearing will be singer-songwriter Meryl McCusker, accompanied by Cham Rand on guitar, John Ehlis on mandolin and Pauline Barrett singing backup. Growing up singing and dancing landed McCusker lead roles in U.S. and European touring companies of “Cats,” “Annie” and “A Chorus Line” in addition to an impressive list of credits in film, television and commercials. Her heartfelt lyrics and luminous melodies reveal a passionate and talented artist.

Other entertainment at the Meadow Party will include wildlife presentations by Darryl Speicher of the Pocono Avian Research Center, who will talk about owls of the Delaware Highlands region; Jen Naugel, a naturalist with Promised Land State Park, who will deliver a program on coyotes; and Don Hamilton from the Natural Park Service, who will lead a river walk showcasing local aquatic life.

Marilyn Joyce Lehren and Pauline Barrett (of Big Truck fame) will perform a musical “sing-and-play-along” for the whole family.

For the grand finale, the Northeasters Barbershop Chorus will serenade the crowd. Already known throughout Wayne County, the group will perform both as a chorus and in traditional barbershop quartets.

Other activities throughout the day will include kids crafts, puppet shows, environmental displays by a number of local organizations, fly fishing lessons, a silent auction, a poetry reading and a fabulous food buffet. All are welcome and admission is free. The Meadow Party will take place, rain or shine, on River Road, one mile south of Milanville, PA. Directional signs will be posted on the morning of the event.

For more information call 570/226-3164 or visit delawarehighlands.org.