NOTO Night Out attracted a significant crowd, despite the 98-degree weather Friday, June 18. Close to 80 attendees endured the heat that night in North Topeka’s Redbud Park.
The NOTO Arts and Entertainment District remained open for three hours, which allowed visitors to shop and explore the wide variety of activities. Axe-throwing at Odin’s Lair and an escape-room attraction called “NOTO Escapes” were both popular activities.
“A lot of people don’t know that NOTO exists,” said Trisha Morris, of Amused Gallery, Gifts and Studios. She said that art, music and food are all great reasons to come explore NOTO.
Jake Livgren, lead vocalist of the group Side Hustle, performed live songs on the Kaw Valley Bank Stage for June’s NOTO Night Out.
Ron Lutz, a new resident of Topeka, recently discovered NOTO. He explained why he came to see the legendary singer.
“(I) heard him sing ‘Dust in the Wind’ 30 years ago at White Concert Hall,” said Lutz. “As soon as I moved north, these things [events] started happening again.”
During a break in the performances, the famous-named vocalist shared how he got booked to perform that night.
“We called around, anywhere that might… have a use for us, and they hired us…,” said Livgren.
Jake Livgren is the nephew of Kerry Livgren, the lead vocalist of the multi-platinum-selling rock band, Kansas. This band originated from Topeka and became famous for the songs “Carry on Wayward Son”, “Point of Know Return” and “Dust in the wind”.
According to Staci Ogle, Program & Communications Coordinator, July’s NOTO Night event at Redbud Park can be described as an ’80s bash.
People are encouraged to stop by the park on July 2 and enjoy 80s music and activities, co-sponsored by NOTO Escape Room, until 9 p.m.
More great events will be taking place in Topeka’s art district this summer, regardless of the heat. For more information on these events, click here.
Edited by: Crystal Hendrix, Jason M.