TGIS summer concert series returns to Palace Theatre courtyard

Westmoreland Cultural Trust’s TGIS concerts are returning to the courtyard of The Palace Theatre in downtown Greensburg, after three years of socially distanced events at the Greensburg Garden & Civic Center.

Now in its 18th year, the free weekly summer music series kicks off at 6 p.m. Thursday with Shiva Skydriver, the alt-rock duo of Kelsey James and Ed Skero.

An acronym for Thank Goodness It’s Summer, TGIS offers a diverse lineup of area musical acts, from acoustic and alternative rock to country and blues.

“We have seen so many great shows at the theater over the years, so we are very honored to be a part of the Cultural Trust’s commitment to bringing live music to the community,” Skero said.

He and James will play songs from their first two albums, some unreleased material and favorites by artists such as Warren Zevon, Alanis Morissette and INXS.

All of this year’s performers are returning from previous seasons, including longtime favorites like country singer Gary Pratt and the acoustic trio The Bricks.

“I am so glad we are moving back to the courtyard in downtown. It has a special type of flavor at The Palace,” said Pratt, who has the July 24 slot with singing partner Kate Szallar. “I am one of the original acts that started with TGIS. This event is one of my favorite nights of the year.”

The Garden Center lawn provided an open space for TGIS to carry on through the pandemic, but was never intended to become its permanent home, said Trust Marketing and Development Director Kyli Stoner.

“The popular feedback was that people missed the activity downtown, they love The Palace Theatre and they love to be able to walk around and get dinner beforehand,” she said. “It’s important to us to bring activity to downtown.”

Food truck options

Stoner said she expects opening night will be especially busy, as it coincides with the monthly Greensburg Night Market that will take place from 5:30 to 9 p.m. on nearby South Pennsylvania Avenue.

New this year, two food trucks will be on-site for each TGIS in the alley adjacent to the courtyard of the theater at 21 W. Otterman St.

“This year, there is a variety for everyone’s taste, including some dessert options,” said Trust CEO April Kopas. “The trucks parking in the alley ensures patrons can still be close enough to the performance so they don’t miss anything.”

Food options throughout the summer will include Big Black Grill, Del Vecchio’s, Grub Wagon, Klosky’s, Lunch Ladies on Wheels, Miss Meatball and Mobile Chef. Galaxy Donuts and Udderly Fresh, with rolled ice cream, will offer sweet finishes.

A full bar and concession stand will be available in the courtyard.

Also new, the Trust will be selling a TGIS T-shirt, featuring the entire season lineup with a hand-drawn design of The Palace Theatre.

People planning to attend are encouraged to register beginning on the Monday before each week’s show at westmorelandculturaltrust.org, where each week’s musical act and food trucks are listed. Walk-ins also are welcome.

Trust members can take advantage of early entry to the venue at 5 p.m., followed by general access at 5:15.

Attendees who preregister will have chances to win Palace Theatre merchandise and will be notified if the performance is moved indoors because of inclement weather.