Singer Kelly Rowland is slated to headline Baltimore’s Artscape Festival in September. Mayor Brandon Scott revealed the exciting news on his official Twitter page.
In addition to revealing the news about Rowland headlining on Twitter, Scott also held a press conference to discuss the festival. The news of having a Grammy Award winner as a headliner couldn’t have come at a better time. The festival is returning after a three-year hiatus due to the COVID pandemic.
“Artscape is one of Baltimore’s most iconic events, and its return this year is a marker of how our city is bouncing back after the pandemic,” said Mayor Scott in a news release. “Baltimore is a town full to the brim with incredible artists and a rich history supporting our arts community. There is simply no better way to showcase their talent and their importance to our city than through Artscape. I cannot wait to welcome the incredible lineup of artists, performers, and vendors and the thousands of Baltimoreans and visitors who will get to enjoy this experience.”
According to CBS News, Rowland is slated to perform Friday on one of the four outdoor stages. Other acts include Angelo Moore and his band Dr. Madd Vibe, Nile Rodgers & Chic, and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. The event will occur in Baltimore’s Bolton Hill and Mount Royal neighborhoods. Also, Artscape will expand into the Station North Arts & Entertainment District across North Avenue.
Concerns Over Artscape
Before the announcement, Baltimore schools and various entertainment venues expressed their concerns about the lack of planning for the festival. However, Mayor Scott stated in his conference, the issues were resolved and there weren’t any concerns for safety.
“We had 300,000 in Druid Hill Park for AFRAM, and we didn’t have any incidents,” Mayor Scott said.
Furthermore, acting police commissioner, Richard Worley, explained they would have outside agencies to assist with the events over the weekend. The same agencies help with parades and games in the city.