By Michele Morgan Bolton, Globe Correspondent | May 30, 2010
Dozens of musicians, artists, and performers will gather on the field at 671 High St. on Saturday for the third annual Dedham Square Musicfest, an event that draws thousands with its family-friendly theme.
The day of fun, food, and entertainment is sponsored by the Dedham Square Circle; the Dedham Community House, on whose field the activities will be; and the Dedham School of Music.
“We are super excited about this year’s event,’’ said Amy Haelson, executive director of the Dedham Square Circle, a nonprofit advocacy group. “There is so much local talent out there.’’
New to the festival is an art component, Haelson said, and the artisans tent will feature several dozen local fine artists and crafters showcasing work from potters, sculptors, and painters to jewelry makers, fiber artists, and more. There is no entry fee.
Radio 92.9 will be on hand to help host the event that also includes food vendors and activities for kids. For the complete schedule, event information, and to link to performers’ websites, go to http://www.dedhamfestival.org.
“Our goal is to make Dedham Square a regional destination for cultural events,’’ Haelson said.
Sponsors this year include A Tent for Rent, Needham Bank, Whole Foods Market, Dedham Savings Bank, Getfused, Radio 92.9, Boston Music Spotlight, F.M. Walley Insurance Agency, Schortmann Insurance Agency, and Noble and Greenough School.
The program is funded in part by a grant from the Dedham Cultural Council, which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, organizers said.
Among the 11 bands on the schedule are headliner Magic Magic, a Dedham band that was recently nominated for Best Local Band by the Boston Phoenix, and Ryan Walsh of Hallelujah the Hills, which was also nominated as Best Local Band by the Phoenix.
The other acts include Julie Sweeney of Norwood, who is a Dedham native; Irish band Inchicore; and Sarah Blacker, a music therapist at VoiceWize in Dedham Square, who also is promoting a debut CD.
Yellow Cake, another local band that recently won the Generation Cures Battle of the Bands at the Dedham Community Theatre, will perform along with Mission Hill, a Boston-based rock band opening for Bon Jovi and Kid Rock at Gillette Stadium this summer.
There are various other acts, as well. Maria Sangiolo kicks off the event at 10 a.m. with a concert for children of all ages. The event is slated to wrap at 8 p.m.
“You know, there’s not a week that goes by that there isn’t something going on in Dedham,’’ Haelson said. “For just a little town nestled next to Boston, it’s really one of the best-kept secrets.’’
Michele Morgan Bolton can be reached at mmbolton1@verizon.net.