The Marquette Rockestra returns to the Forest Roberts Theatre this Saturday, May 16, for a high-energy tribute to the music of 1976. Musician and participant Jon Teichman describes the era as a pivotal moment in music history, serving as a perfect bridge to the past for both longtime fans and people new to music from the 1970's. The performance aims to recreate the massive sounds of the bicentennial year, ranging from the peak of disco and arena rock to the early stages of punk. Rather than a standard cover set, the show is a carefully curated production featuring two sets of recognizable hits to evoke nostalgia.
What sets this performance apart is the group’s commitment to a completely organic live experience. The Rockestra functions as a guild of talented local musicians who lovingly recreate every song note-for-note without the use of backing tapes, loops, or samples. The production is further elevated by the professional atmosphere of the Forest Roberts Theatre, where NMU theater students provide a "rock and roll fantasy" environment complete with professional lighting, lasers, and fog.
The production is volunteer-driven, drawing from a rotating cast of neighbors, coworkers, and NMU faculty and staff. Teichman notes that the rehearsal process is defined by a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among the performers, translating into an inviting performance for the audience.
This community spirit extends beyond the stage, as the concert serves as a fundraiser for two local causes. Proceeds support the Community Action Alger-Marquette Emergency Food Program, which aids food pantries across two counties, and the Marquette Rockestra Arts Scholarship, which provides financial assistance to MAPS students pursuing arts degrees in higher education.
Public Radio 90's Kurt Hauswirth spoke with Teichman in our studio:
While the setlist remains a closely guarded secret, attendees can expect to hear the iconic sounds of artists like Elton John, ABBA, and the Eagles. Though the Forest Roberts Theatre offers a seated environment, the performance's energy is expected to keep the crowd engaged from start to finish. Tickets for the May 16th show are available through Northern Michigan University’s ticketing website.
Find more information at the Marquette Rockestra Facebook page, and for tickets, visit nmu.universitytickets.com.
