Survivor Coming in Concert to Old Economy Village

Survivor is coming to Old Economy Village to perform an outdoor concert Aug. 24 and tickets are now on sale.

The band is well-known for its Grammy-winning 1982 hit “Eye of the Tiger” -- written specifically for Rocky III – in addition to hits such as “Burning Heart,” “High on You,” and “The Search is Over.”

Frontman Jimi Jamison rejoined Survivor in November, after leaving the band in 2006 to focus on his solo career. The band also includes Frankie Sullivan on guitar, Marc Droubay on drums, Billy Ozzello on bass and graduate Walter Tolentino on keyboards and guitar.

Survivor’s tour stop next month at Old Economy is quite fitting, considering the more recent struggles to keep alive the historical site in Ambridge, former home to the Harmonists, a 19th century Christian communal society.

“We’re trying to survive. I thought that Survivor was the perfect group to bring in,” said Lynn Popovich, Friends of Old Economy administrator.

Old Economy is well known for its historical tours and school field trip experiences, but Popovich said the site also hosts regular monthly events, such as the recent antique car show, Christmas at the Village and Octoberfest.

In the wake of state budget cuts for museums across the board, she said they have been working to become more self-sustainable, which includes hosting much larger events that bring in more money, Popovich said.

“All of our money goes back into our educational programs,” Popovich said.  

The Survivor concert is the first ever large fundraiser for Friends of Old Economy Village. The event takes place in the Old Economy gardens, which can hold a large crowd, but has rarely been used for fundraising events.

“Nobody ever gets to see the garden and enjoy it, and it’s spectacular,” Popovich said.

Bishop Clay, a rock band from the Sewickley area, will open the show. Beer will also be sold, courtesy of Penn Pilsner, along with Mike’s Hard Lemonade, Coke and Diet Coke.

Popovich said they looked at several groups before deciding to go with Survivor. 

"They have a broad base of appeal from 30- to 70-year-olds," she said, adding that the band looks good and sounds good.

Popovich is especially thrilled to see Tolentino, who graduated with her sons from the Academy.

“He’s a local boy,” she said.  

GET SURVIVOR TICKETS

When: 7:30 p.m. Aug. 24

Where: 270 16th St. Ambridge, PA 15003 

Price: $50 for gold circle seats and $30 for general admission. Gold circle seating is limited to 150 people and gives an up-close view from padded white chairs. General admission ticket holders are invited to bring their own folding chairs or blankets to enjoy the show.  

How: Tickets are available at showclix.com, at the visitor's center or by calling 724-266-4500.