By Jessica Schultz
Lucky Dog Management is the full-service artist and event group that typically brings us the annual Belle Bash Music Series. The last few years a lot of things have changed which led the production company in search of a new venue. The Villager decided it was time to check in with owner Todd Wagner and see what they have in the works for 2022.
The Villager (V): It’s been a minute since we caught up with Luck Dog Management, what has been happening lately?
Todd (T): “There have been a lot of things happening. We’ve always operated the CHQ Belle Bash but due to the cost of fuel this year we had to make some adjustments. We still love the Belle and it’s in no way finished but it has opened the door for us to find a venue that isn’t controlled by factors like the weather etc. for 2022. Thus, our new Bellini Lounge Live was born.”
V: This is a great new venture you’ve got coming up; care to elaborate on that?
T: “We are partnering with Chautauqua Suites and will be hosting shows in one of their two restaurants. The Bellini Restaurant will host Bellini Lounge Live, our new concert series.”
V: Who is the first performer?
T: “Our first show is widely loved Blues Music Award (BMA) nominee and winner Vanessa Collier, coming up on July 1st, 2022. Collier’s alto saxophone talents have been praised by no less than Buddy Guy and her considerable singing and songwriting chops are also on display during performances. Her performances in concerts and in schools as part of the Blues in the Schools programs invigorate and inspire audiences of all ages. She was a part of Bell Bash last year and was very well received and she was excited to join us in the lounge this year to give everyone a second chance to see her perform.”
V: What are your plans moving forward throughout the rest of 2022?
T: “Ultimately, we are hoping to make this a year-round venture. We’ve got some great plans moving forward. We are planning to bring in big artists, national touring acts and great entertainment into the Suites.”
V: What is the cost for the show?
T: “The cost of admission is $20 dollars pre-sale and $25 day of show. Must visit bellinilounglive.com. to purchase pre-sale tickets. Show will be 8:30-10pm. Dinner reservations are advised as space is limited and will be first come, first served otherwise. To make reservations you can reach out to Chautauqua Suites at 716-269-7829.”
V: Anything else to add?
T: “I think this is going to be a great partnership. We are bringing back something everyone loves in a more comfortable environment. Perfect chance to have food, drinks and see a great show at the same time. The kitchen opens at 6pm when the music hall opens. This is a pretty family friendly event; though minors do have to be accompanied by an adult. There is a casual dress code, we only ask for no tank tops or cutoffs please. And the facility is fully handicap accessible so everyone can come out and enjoy the event!! We hope to see everyone there.”
Thank you, Todd, for taking the time to speak with us and for sharing all the great info on your upcoming shows. And a huge thank you to the Chautauqua Suites for helping make this all possible. More information and to get tickets for performances, visit belliniloungelive.com and to make reservations please reach out to Chautauqua Suites at 716-269-7829.
Friday, July 1, the first show in the Bellini Lounge Live Series will take place with widely loved Blues Music Award (BMA) nominee and winner Vanessa Collier. Collier’s alto saxophone talents have been praised by no less than Buddy Guy and her considerable singing and songwriting chops are also on display during performances.