Tour kickoff event Saturday at Newton VFW Post

A Winter Dance Party Scholarship Fund Tour will make its way to Newton VFW Post, 315 First Ave. W. The bands will perform from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday, and tickets will cost $10 at the door.

Dennis Farland, tour organizer, said this is one of three events scheduled for their tour featuring performers Richie Lee & the Fabulous ’50s and The Del Shannon Show with James Popenhagen.

Richie Lee and the Fabulous ’50s pays tribute to the roots of rock and roll. Their set will feature songs from legendary performers such as Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, Elvis Presley, The Beatles and more.

James Popenhagen pays homage to the late hall of fame rocker, Del Shannon. His grandfather, Bob Popenhagen, was Shannon’s lead guitar player at the HiLo club in Battle Creek, Mich. in the 1950s, building a bond between Shannon and Popenhagen that still exists today.

Both bands will bring the flare of the ‘50s to the Newton stage. Other rock and roll bands will be featured during the fundraiser event.

Once a $5,000 profit is raised from the performances, about $3,000 of it will be donated back to the Iowa Rock and Roll Music Association for its scholarships. The remaining funds will go to $500 scholarships for students in Newton.

“This is kicking the tour off in Newton. Sunday, we’ll be doing the matinée up in Decorah,” Farland said. “This will be the fifth or sixth year.”

The event will also have collectibles and rock and roll memorabilia for sale and items up for silent auction.

For more information about the event, visit the Richie Lee & the Fabulous '50s Facebook page.

Contact Orrin Shawl at 641-792-3121 ext. 6533 or oshawl@newtondailynews.com