ROCKPORT — The historic Rockport Opera House, with support from the Town of Rockport, presents Rory McBride and his band in 'A Spectacle By The Sea' on Saturday, August 24, 2024. Rory McBride describes the show as more than just a concert, but a convergence of art, music, and community, celebrating both the local spirit and the universal appeal of his music.

"The Opera House in Rockport has a rich history, having transformed since its inception in 1891,” said McBride, in a news release. “It’s a summer dream to perform the 'Spectacle' with my band in such an iconic venue. We’re putting together something very memorable, perhaps even historic.”

The evening will begin with an opening act featuring a shadow puppet artist, a harpist, and a selection of ambient sonics.

McBride is collaborating with Berlin-based designer Julia Schmautz on promotional materials and Taipei-based visual artist Saitemiss, who has created an illustrated comic narrative reflecting McBride's coastal life. Additionally, the recent conclusion of a poetry and art zine project titled “The Ticket” explores themes central to McBride’s ethos—ocean, holiday, and the color blue.

"There’s an intense Midcoast-centric localism to the show,” said McBride. “I see the Spectacle as a kind of reunion of old and new friends from the past few summers that I've been in the pine tree state playing on boats, seaside inns, and private parties. But I even have people who are bringing their boats into the harbor just for the show. Others are coming up from Old Orchard Beach and some even plan to come down from the top of the state in Lubec." 

Performance Schedule:
7:00 PM - Doors
7:30 PM - Special Guest (TBA)
8:15 PM - McBride & His Band (Set 1)
9:15 PM - Intermission
9:45 PM - McBride & His Band (Set 2)

Sponsor and general advanced tickets can be purchased at https://rockportoperahouse.thundertix.com/orders/new?performance_id=3086976. 

This concert will feature songs from McBride’s Sonic Holiday album, performed live in a recent five-episode film project, and other fan favorites. Each piece resonates with McBride's experiences and his profound connection to Maine's natural beauty.

"I was raised in the Midwest, surrounded by cornfields, so the ocean here is a revelation,” said McBride. “My bass player Stu says, ‘the salt is in my blood.’ I'm embracing this season of life as a fixture in coastal Maine, aiming to usher in a new kind of poetry and romance through hypnotic, sonic rock.”

After releasing an anti-war scream-based track titled “No!” over the summer, McBride is now planning tours in Ireland and Japan and is currently working on his next EP titled Art School.

For more information about Rory McBride, visit www.rorymcbride.com and follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rorymcbrideofficial

Merchandise for 'A Spectacle By The Sea' will be available at Rory McBride's official merch store: https://shop.rorymcbride.com