33rd Spoleto Festival Opens in Charleston

The 2009 Opening Ceremony was held in front of City Hall on the famed Four Corners of law, where Broad Street intersects with Meeting Street. Sunny and breezy weather made the conditions very comfortable as the Charleston Symphony Brass Ensemble played the Fanfare from Orfeo (Monteverdi). Spoleto performer Louis Otey sang the National Anthem in his baritone register, before Mayor Joe Riley came to the podium to make his traditional remarks. First, he awarded a declaration to friend and Spoleto Festival originator Charles Wadsworth, that during each opening ceremony in the future Mr. Wadsworth's considerable efforts shall be recognized. Mr. Wadsworth made a pithy acceptance before exiting the stage - after all he had to play the harpsichord at 1 p.m. for Spoleto patrons! Mayor Riley spoke with vigor when he asked for the dancers to dance, the players to play, and for the 33rd Spoleto Festival to commence. Lowcountryoutdoors.com visited two more outdoor venues to kick off Spoleto, the first being the mayor's reception at the Maritime Center. An interesting group of citizens gathered by the Cooper River to share a few drinks, and snacks (that included Cracker Jack and Moon Pies), and the Mayor was relaxed as he enjoyed speaking with folks and celebrating Spoleto, which is practically a holiday in Charleston. Saving the best for last, a Spoleto Jazz Series concert was viewed at the Cistern and artist Tierney Sutton did not disappoint. Her jazz quartet last played Spoleto in 2002, and she spoke fondly of those memories while onstage this night. Anytime an artist says they are comfortable in a certain setting and wants to play an extended show "for fun" - the audience is in for a treat. Sutton played a mix of songs from her handful of CD's and promises an entirely different concert on the second night at the Cistern. When Spoleto brings artist's from across the country to Charleston it is wise for those seeking culture to participate in the festival, and with so many offerings taking place in the outdoors (particularly Piccolo Spoleto)  - it makes for a great Lowcountry combination.

Photos By Jeff Dennis: A respectful Mayor Joe Riley listens as Charles Wadsworth accepts the proclamation that touts the sum of his contributions to the Spoleto Festival, Jazz artist Tierney Sutton as pictured on her latest Telarc CD, Desire