VERNON— Singer Donna Ray and the newly resurrected band Screaming Nurse are gearing up to give fans of 1980s female rock ‘n’ roll a blast from the past. And they’ll help raise money for Anita’s Stevens Swan Humane Society in Utica at the same time.
Nearly 40 years after their heyday in midtown New York, Screaming Nurse take the stage once again for a special 7 p.m. benefit concert on Saturday, October 22 at the Nothin’ Fancy Country Rock Saloon, 10 Ruth St.
Ray is now joined by lead guitarist Arianna “Rosie O’Leary” Marci, rhythm guitarist and saxophonist Avery Davis, bassist Owen Paz, keyboardist Jack Townes, drummer Jenny Townes and Sammy D on backing vocals.
“I’ve wanted to do this for a long time,” Ray said. “Screaming Nurse returns, resurrected with new blood.”
Admission is $5 and raffle tickets will be sold beginning at 7 p.m.
First prize is a glittering 4-by-3-foot painting of the Statue of Liberty plus an autographed poster by Robert Channing; second prize is a Hot Wheels prize pack; and the third prize is a $25 Price Chopper gift card.
Ray said anyone who donates items from the shelter’s wish list will receive a free raffle ticket for each item. Visit www.anitas-sshs.org for the list.
Screaming Nurse themselves won’t take a penny for the performance, she noted. Helping animals in need is a matter close to his heart, admitted Ray.
“When the economy is bad, pets are the first to suffer,” she said.
Screaming Nurse takes the stage at 8 p.m. for a set featuring their own classic “Just a Man” and the start of a brand new song, plus covers of ’80s hits like Pat Benatar and Joan Jett.
The winners of the raffle will be announced after their set, and Oneida’s 169 Rhythm section will play more classic rock at 9 p.m. for the remainder of the evening.
“It’s always good to see a band come back to life,” said 169 Rhythm Section drummer Steve Seelman. “This show will be off the hook from the first chord – anyone who loves great rock ‘n’ roll needs to come out for this one!”
“It’s going to be a great two band show,” Ray promised.
“People should expect the unexpected. It will be high-energy, theatrical rock ‘n’ roll with special guest stars. They will not be disappointed.
