In 2013, in response to the Sandy Hook School tragedy, a small group of Newtown High School alumni organized the “Great Newtown Reunion, a Day of Healing,” and invited the popular 1970s Newtown band, Panacea, to reunite to close out the event, adding some warm memories for many attendees.
Original band members returned to Newtown from around the country to play together for the first time in 50 years. Performers and attendees alike enjoyed the band reunion so much that Panacea has continued to host this informal annual reunion at Dickinson Park almost every Labor Day weekend for the past 13 years, filling the pavilion with crowds of friends, old and new, with even some teachers and administrators making surprise appearances.
This year’s lineup includes original Panacea members Corky Ballard bass, vocals; Leslie Ballard flute, vocals; with guests longtime Panacea keyboardist Christian Martirano; Tony Traina, drums; Jim Lynch, guitar; Steve Moran, sax; and Austen Lesu trumpet.Sound by Thunder & Lighting Productions.
This year’s Reunion is sponsored by Thomas Stickles’ Clearheart Construction, which has also generously supported the reunion in several past years. These contributions have helped to keep our community connected, and are greatly appreciated by the band members, and all who attend.
The original Panacea band lineup included Newtowners siblings Leslie Ballard, Corky Ballard, Rick Kuhn, Mat Harris, Jon Dodson, and Bruce Tibbitts.
In 1970, Panacea won the All-State Battle of the Bands, featuring a program of original music written by Corky Ballard and drummer Rick Kuhn, with guitarist Jon Dodson, and Leslie Ballard playing flute. All four took turns as lead vocalists. The group became a popular staple for proms, dances, reunions, and weddings, encouraging all of the members to continue careers in music.
Although hosted as a town-wide event, the Reunion has also become a tradition for many Newtown high school grads, some traveling from other countries, as an opportunity to meet up and reconnect with their hometown friends. It’s rain or shine, and all are welcome.
Nonperishable items will be collected for Panacea’s Annual Bridget Seaman FAITH Food Pantry Drive. (See FAITH webpage for list of needs.) The pantry collection has been a feature since the first reunion, and Bridget Seaman volunteered to run the donation table. The pantry collection was renamed in Bridget’s honor on her passing.
The Wafel Hut food truck will be serving fresh sweet and savory Belgian waffles all day.
Guests are welcome to bring nonalcoholic beverages, but grilling is not allowed. Guests are reminded that glass containers and pets are not permitted in the park, with the exception of identified service dogs,
Check The Newtown Bee and Panacea Newtown Facebook page for updates