Key West has found a way to let the music play during the continuing coronavirus pandemic.
Rams Head, the company that manages events at Key West’s open-air Coffee Butler Amphitheater, this week launches Sunset Series at the Amp.
The eight-week outdoor concert series will begin Saturday, Oct. 3 featuring $10 tickets for live music performances, with socially distanced seating on the lawn. Attendees will bring their own chairs and blankets for an entertainment experience that includes local food vendors and artisans, with the Key West sunset as a natural backdrop.
Unlike traditional concerts at the amphitheater, there will be no seating in front of the stage.
“This is just the beginning as we move forward in the events world and we hope many will benefit. This community-driven series is so needed on our island right now,” said Kelly Norman of Rams Head.
The opening night of the series on Oct. 3 will feature a performance by the amphitheater’s namesake, Lofton “Coffee” Butler, supported by a full band led by Larry Baeder and including special guests Cliff Sawyer, Mina Lopez, Clayton Lopez and others.
“This will be the first performance for the Key West icon, Coffee Butler, who’s now 92, on the dedicated stage. Kristen McNamara, a local favorite and former American Idol contestant, will perform an hour-long set at the start of the evening,” Norman said.
The series will continue every Saturday through Nov. 28 from 5 to 9 p.m., with performances by Coconut Victrola, The Happy Dog Band, Andy Westcott Band, The Raw Dawggs, Shastina Chiles, Nick Norman & Caffeine Carl, Rolando Rojas & the All Star Band and more.
“We want live music to be a driving force of this series, while providing an atmosphere where, regardless of who is on stage, locals can get out of their house, see friends, do some shopping, eat, drink and feel safe,” Norman said.
Venue managers are taking extra steps to ensure the best and safest practices are being met when reopening. Online ticket sales through thekeywestamp.com will provide contactless entry and vendors are asked to minimize cash handling. Sanitation stations will be provided and socially distanced circles on the lawn will separate groups. Masks are required when moving about the venue and not eating or drinking.
Discounted series and family passes are available. Free parking is also being offered, although bike riding and ride-share is always encouraged.
Tickets and information are available at thekeywestamp.com. For questions and vendor inquiries, email keywest@ramsheadgroup.com.
