COLUMBUS, Ind. — The annual “American Pie: The Magical History Tour” combination history lesson and rock concert performed mostly by local high schoolers will return to an in-person format in April at Judson Erne Auditorium, 1400 25th St. in Columbus.
Coordinator Jerry Mihay, a Columbus North High School government and U.S. history teacher and also a longtime guitarist for the event’s professional backing band, also pointed out that the event that often has sold out through the years is returning to its original Thursday evening scheduling, and beginning 15 minutes earlier than normal, at 6:30 p.m. for an earlier finish to the evening.
“This — everybody getting together — is what it’s all about,” Mihay said of the event often thick with exuberance and other emotion.
Tickets are expected to go on sale at North on about April 20.
In 2020 and 2021, Mihay worked with others such as North media adviser Rachel McCarver and her students to produce a taped, abbreviated, online version of the show because the COVID-19 pandemic prevented holding a large gathering.
Because this year will mark the return of the presentation before a live audience, which usually includes local students grooving and dancing near the stage, Mihay said the theme will be “Reset.” The 22-song setlist will open with a 1958 Buddy Holly tune and close with the 1981 festive Kool and the Gang tune “Celebrate.”
“We’re really kind of starting over in a manner of speaking,” Mihay said.
For the complete story, see Saturday’s Republic.
