Pasadena-based music nonprofit MUSE/IQUE will stage a free soundful community celebration this weekend. The two-day event, “The Judas of Folk: Dylan Plugs In,” pays homage to Bob Dylan’s controversial 1965 Newport Folk Festival performance.
At that iconic festival, Dylan outraged folk purists by “going electric” and departing from the acoustic folk traditions. He played an electrified set, brazenly challenging long-held conventions.
“It was outrageous. It was audacious,” said Rachael Worby, MUSE/IQUE’s artistic director. “Dylan changed the conversation about the rules of music and art forever.”
The concerts on June 22-23 with preshow celebration at 6:30 p.m and Live music at 7:30 p.m.
will trace folk music’s evolution from traditional roots to its role as the voice of protest movements. They will culminate in Dylan’s bold, genre-defying Newport moment and its lasting impact.
Worby promises “all new spins” on songs by Dylan’s influences like Odetta and Pete Seeger, as well as artists he inspired, including The Byrds and The Rolling Stones.
Vocalists LaVance Colley, Rachel Gonzalez, Chris Pierce, and the DC6 Singers Collective will join MUSE/IQUE’s orchestra. Acclaimed fiddler Gabe Witcher and guitarist Ira Ingber, a longtime Dylan collaborator, will also perform.
“When artists make loud choices and take bold stances, they teach us that nothing is impossible,” Worby said, reflecting on the concert’s theme celebrating musical boundary-breakers.
The free outdoor event at Pasadena’s Memorial Park will feature pre-show festivities like photo booths and screen-printing. Seating is first-come, first-served for general admission.This event is recommended for ages 9 and up and RSVP is required.
