“Billy McGuigan and the Rave On Band” performed at the Gallery on March 19 and 20 in 2005. These guys have been ripping up the Omaha Community Playhouse for the past few years during the holidays, as well as doing private party's and concerts around the country. The Gallery was fortunate to find them in a lull, and since the doors are closed from mid-January through mid-March, the space was ready for some alternative use between the painting and pedestal building.

Able to seat around 90 people, the intimate setting put the fans up close to the action. The band played two sets of great music, starting off with the Buddy Holly tunes that have made them a local favorite. Paul McCartney and Billy Joel were showcased in set 2, and the house was really rockin' by the time it all came to a close.

Saturday night featured an over 21 show with a full cash bar, and the all ages Sunday afternoon matinee had the Louisville High School Student Council selling refreshments. The Council raised some money and the average weight of all in attendance with the variety of the sweets they were selling. There was also a raffle for a promotional poster signed by the Billy and the band along with a presentation of gifts to a fan that follows the band wherever they go. It just so happened to be his birthday, and the boys in the band wanted to say thanks.

This was a cool use of a great space.

Thanks to the band and all of the fans for a great time.