Thursday 12:30 p.m., Ranger and the Re-Arrangers, Midway Stage
There’s no need to wait for Django Fest for a chance to sway and stomp to the music of Django Reinhardt. Seattle-based gypsy jazz ensemble Ranger and the Re-Arrangers will be performing both original pieces and those of the famous Romani guitarist on the Midway Stage. The group specializes in traditional Western European music and swing with a gypsy jazz infusion, a style popular in Paris in the 1930s and ‘40s.
Friday noon, Douglas County Daughters, Midway Stage
For sisters Mollie and Emily, music has always been a family affair.
As kids growing up in the small town of Elkhorn, Neb., the young girls paired with older sister Kelley to practice three-part harmonies with their mother.
“We are small-town folk,” said Mollie. “Whenever we play in a small town, we feel like we’re coming home.”
Most recently, the duo released a new album “Going Home,” in collaboration with Grammy-award winning and platinum-record producing engineer Billy Barnett.
“We’ve put together two sets of fun, upbeat, family-friendly songs that will have the kids dancing and the grown-ups singing,” she added.
Saturday 7:30 p.m., Comedy Island Improv, BlackBox Theatre
“We’ll make you pee your pants if you forgot to go before the show. Seriously,” proclaim the members of Comedy Island via their Facebook page. The Langley-based improv group has been making locals laugh, chortle and snort at venues such as Whidbey Island Children’s Theater and the Eagles Aerie, and promises to bestow the gift of giggles upon fairgoers as well. Audience participation is encouraged.
Sunday 6 p.m., Second Hand Newz, Midway Stage
Take a trip back to the ‘70s and ‘80s with Fleetwood Mac cover band Second Hand Newz. This group has frequently played night clubs and casinos in the Northwest for the past five years, and most recently performed at Bite of Seattle. Band member Roger Keith Wheeler said he and his bandmates are looking forward to bringing back memories for audience members with the classic melodies.
