Globe Trotting Caravan of Thieves of Gypsy Jazz Fame Headline Merryall’s Annual Autumn Gala on September 9

Reception at 6 pm, followed by a swinging, serenading, mesmerizing concert at 7 pm

Merryall invites you to clap your hands, stomp your feet, and sing along to the magical sounds of Caravan of Thieves and their high-intensity, driving gypsy rhythms. From 6-7 pm, sip wine, and dine on hors d'oeuvres on Merryall’s deck catered by Chef John Favreau, owner and proprietor of Warren General, an area favorite. Then 7-9 pm, enjoy all that jazz. Founded by Carrie and Fuzz Sangiovanni, Caravan of Thieves has toured with such renowned artists as Emmylou Harris, Dan Hicks, Glen Campbell, Nanci Griffith, The Decemberists, Keb Mo, Iron and Wine, The Punch Brothers, John Hammond, John Jorgenson and Tom Tom Club.

Inspired by the big band swing era, along with the Quintette du Hot Club de France musical theater and early American Folk music, says co-founder Fuzz,” We had a romantic, bohemian vision of making music and performing on the road, in parks, traveling around, and avoiding responsibility.” Eventually, they added violinist Dan Foster and bass player Dan Asher and released their debut album, Bouquet, followed by Mischief Night which was recorded at a sold-out show in Fairfield Connecticut.

Their last release is Kiss Kiss, “combining dark humor and social commentary and our thoughts on bringing both beauty and anger into all of our lives” … maybe that is why over the last eight years, traveling the globe, Caravan of Thieves has attracted a loyal following or family of “Freaks,” a moniker that both the band and their followers affectionately refer to themselves as.

Says Merryall Board Member, Dean Gray, “We are delighted to have them headlining our gala and encourage audience members to join in throughout the performance with fits of claps, finger snaps and cheers... It’s been said that if Django Reinhardt, the cast of Stomp and the Beatles all had a party at Tim Burton’s house, Caravan of Thieves would be the band they’d hire. Now that sounds like my kind of gathering!”

Tickets, $45 for the reception and the concert, are available online at merryallcenter.org.