Main Street Columbus expects the Trotter Convention Center Courtyard to be a lunchtime destination on four consecutive Thursdays, March 31 to April 21. That is when Noon Tunes returns for its eighth year. Jeffrey Rupp kicks off the 2016 spring music and lunch series March 31, performing from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Courtyard at 123 Fifth St. N.
“What could be better during lunchtime on a sunny day than listening to some good, homegrown music with your friends?” asked Barbara Bigelow, executive director of Main Street Columbus. The sunny part may not actually always work out, Bigelow concedes, “but Noon Tunes is back and you can definitely count on good music, so bring your appetite and enjoy!” she urged.
In addition to Rupp on March 31, scheduled musicians include Jimmy James Redd April 7, Bruce Johnson and Tyler Wheat on April 14 and Dawn Barham April 21.
Rupp is a veteran Noon Tunes performer. While every community has its challenges, every community also has those things which “are cool and make it unique,” he said.
“When I think of Columbus, things such as the Riverwalk, the Market Street Festival and Noon Tunes come to mind,” said Rupp, who is the director of Outreach in Mississippi State’s College of Business, and a former Columbus mayor. “I always look forward to playing at Noon Tunes — not just for the music, but also to see some familiar faces and have some good conversation.”
Main Street Columbus is partnering with Columbus attorney David Owen, Zachary’s Restaurant and Clark Beverage Group to present Noon Tunes. Box lunches by Zachary’s will be available for purchase at a cost of $7, if desired. Clark Beverage Group will donate complimentary soft drinks.
The Courtyard boasts casual seating at tables topped with umbrellas. It is, Bigelow said, the perfect setting to enjoy lunch, visit with friends and listen to “some of our local awesome talent.”
“Each week of Noon Tunes, talented musicians will make your day a little brighter,” she continued. “Drop by the Trotter Courtyard any time between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on those Thursdays to slow down a little, unplug and relax.”
For more information, contact Main Street Columbus at 662-328-6305.
Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 37 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.