Barnum Festival Will Kick Off

With New Patriotic Event

BRIDGEPORT — Area residents are invited to take a dance step back in time and join the Barnum Festival in a nostalgic salute of patriotism. Take a “Sentimental Journey” and return to the glitz, glamour and glory of the 40s on Saturday, April 19, starting at 6 pm, at Testo’s Restaurant, 1775 Madison Avenue.

 “Sentimental Journey,” a new Barnum Festival event, will present an Americana story captured through classic songs and dances of the swinging Big Band era. It will also tie in with this year’s festival theme, “The Barnum Festival Salute to Our Military and Old Glory.”

Attendees will swing into a memorable evening of fun that includes a family style dinner, dancing to the music of the 40s, and a performance of “Sentimental Journey” by the Connecticut Ballroom Theatre from Branford followed by a swing dance lesson. Adults of all ages are welcome.

“I am very excited about chairing this new Barnum Festival event that recreates the sights, sounds and sentiments of World War II,” said Barbara D’Addario Dubin, the event chairman, who also is a board member of the Barnum Festival. “We anticipate a sell-out crowd because over 180 tickets for ‘Sentimental Journey’ have already been reserved. I am so grateful for all of the community support for this event.”

Mayor Mark A. Lauretti, who is currently serving his ninth consecutive term as mayor of Shelton, and has been named the 60th Ringmaster for Barnum Festival 2008. A long-time loyal supporter of the festival, he initiated the annual fundraiser, Shelton Salutes the Ringmaster, and regularly participates in many Festival events. Mayor Lauretti will make his official debut at “Sentimental Journey,” meeting and greeting attendees.

“I am honored to serve as the 2008 Ringmaster and look forward to representing the region during this spectacular celebration. Although the Barnum Festival originated in Bridgeport, families from all over the state attend its many kid friendly events. I plan to create a new level of energy and excitement during this year’s events and continue the legacy of previous Ringmasters,” said Mayor Lauretti.

According to William Murphy of Trumbull, executive director of the Barnum Festival and a previous Ringmaster, “We are delighted that Mayor Lauretti will serve as this year’s Ringmaster. We plan to keep the momentum going even stronger in 2008.  Last year the Barnum Festival successfully broke new attendance records, added exciting new events, and attracted celebrity attention with Bridgeport native John Ratzenberger as the honorary parade grand marshal.”

Tickets for “Sentimental Journey” are $50 per person, and 20 percent of the proceeds will be donated to the Swim Across the Sound. Call the Barnum Festival office at 203-367-8495 or visit BarnumFestival.com for additional information.

The Barnum Festival was created in 1949 to make people feel good about celebrating the life and times of P.T. Barnum, who was born on July 5, 1810. More than 20 annual Barnum Festival events salute Barnum and the people and events that made him the greatest showman on earth.  The mega-celebration includes parades, concerts, parties, drum corps and a fireworks extravaganza at Seaside Park. Visit BarnumFestival.com for the schedule of events, updates, festival background and other information.