Florida Museum announces entertainment for ButterflyFest

August 24, 2007

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The Florida Museum of Natural History’s ButterflyFest Oct. 13-14 will feature several nationally well-known musicians as well as a variety of performances from area community groups.

Highlights include Jimmy Ibbotson, former lead singer for the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band; Jesse Winchester, whose songs have been recorded by many artists, including Elvis Costello, Joan Baez, The Everly Brothers, Jimmy Buffett, Waylon Jennings, Bonnie Raitt, Emmylou Harris, Reba McEntire and Wynonna Judd; Jonathan Edwards, a nationally known folk artist who has been singing and recording for more than 30 years; and The Claire Lynch Band, an award-winning bluegrass band considered one of the best in the country.

Performances are included with the ButterflyFest one-day general admission of $5 for adults and $2 for ages 5-12.

“Tickets to see singers of this caliber could easily cost $25 to $30,” said Mike Boulware, a local musician, Butterfly Rainforest employee and ButterflyFest entertainment coordinator. “I think we are very fortunate to have been able to book these excellent performers all on the same weekend and I know those in attendance will really enjoy their shows.”

Community groups scheduled to appear include the Cross Creek Cloggers, Ethnic Dance Expressions, Tai Chi & Whirling Tiger Kung Fu, Gainesville Suzuki Players, Danscompany of Gainesville and Hogan School of Irish Dance.

ButterflyFest will feature a variety of activities for all ages including crafts and demonstrations, field trips and tours, and a variety of vendors offering butterfly and garden gifts, plants, food and exhibits by non-profit organizations.

For more information call Marilyn Martin, 352-846-2000, ext. 245, or visit www.flmnh.ufl.edu/butterflyfest/