THE "Coolest Thing That Happens in Parkersburg" is headed to Belpre, OHIO!

Bian lian (lit: “face changing”) is a secret performance art rarely seen outside China. The face-changing technique was passed down within families and it is only within the last 30 years or so that it has started to spread more widely.  Traditionally, only men performed bian lian, but that has also begun to change in recent years. 

The Lion Dance is a traditional Chinese art that is passed down from generation to generation. It is usually performed by two people – one in front and one in back – and showcases some martial arts moves. The lion dance is considered to be an auspicious thing to drive away evil spirits, avoid harm and promote prosperity. 

Chinese Kung Fu includes a wide variety of styles and techniques, such as Shaolin Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Wing Chun, and many others. These styles may focus on hard power or soft power, fast movements or slow, internal energy (Qi) or external strength. Beyond combat, Kung Fu teaches discipline, respect, perseverance, and moral character. It is not only a way to train the body but also a path to cultivate the spirit.

The Shaun Booker Dammit Band is a hard hitting Rocking Blues band based in Columbus, Ohio. Shaun is an international recording artist. She has successfully toured Europe and South America numerous times. Inducted into The Columbus Blues Hall of Fame, winner of The Columbus Blues Challenge, crowned The Empress of Beale St., she is a BLUES force!

Ilene Evans portrays Harriet Tubman. We’d like to thank Voices From the Earth for making it possible to bring Mrs. Tubman to our festival. 

Mrs. Tubman was born into slavery in Maryland but escaped through the Underground Railroad in 1849. She became the most famous leader of that network, aiding slaves in their escape to free states and Canada. When the Civil War erupted her underground experiences and knowledge of covert operations made her an invaluable resource to Federal officers. She served as a spy, nurse, scout, and guide for Union troops and was present at the ill-fated assault of Fort Wagner by the 54th Massachusetts in South Carolina.

Harriet stood against the laws that would return slaves to their masters as common property. She was supported by those who practiced a belief that no one had the right to own another. Let us welcome Ms. Harriet Tubman to tell us how she got started on the road to freedom.

 Presenting traditional Irish music with a genuine passion and a sincere sense of purpose. They pour their hearts into playing lively jigs, spirited reels, and haunting airs with songs that reach deep into the moral and emotional part of man’s nature. Instruments such as the Irish uilleann pipes, tin whistle, and flute provide the brilliant melodies, while the guitar and traditional Irish bodhran provide intricate layering, heartbeat, and drive. Members of this outstanding band include Brian McCoy (flutes, whistles, pipes), Doug Rudy (mandolin, banjo, fiddle, vocals), Kim Rattan (lead vocals, guitar, mandolin, Bazouki), and Eddie Cotter (vocals, bodhrán).  

Josh Donaway is the grandson of the late Gene Donaway, MOVMCF co-founder, and son of the late Jay Donaway. He is performing in honor of his father and grandfather. He and his band cover country, classic oldies, and radio hits. 

Since its fiery inception in 1999, Grupo Fuego has blazed a trail as a pillar of passion, consistency, and electrifying Latin rhythms. With a lineup that has remained unshaken for over 25 years, the band’s chemistry and powerhouse sound have become legendary, mirroring the explosive rise of Latin music itself. From intimate local gigs to headlining iconic festivals, Grupo Fuego has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, uniting generations and audiences of all backgrounds with their high-octane performances and irresistible energy.