Cole Porter Festival

A unique series of live music and special events celebrate the legacy and music of Cole Porter while highlighting his special connection to the town of Peru. We honor the memory of Porter with traditional focus, as well as innovative new experiences to encourage interest among new and diverse audiences.

Schedule:
11:30am - 1:00pm: Lunch With Mr. Porter @ Festival Showroom at Miami County Museum

Enjoy an exquisite lunch with wine and champagne as host Cole Porter (portrayed by Dr. Jason Gornto) takes you on an in-depth musical journey through the life-and-times of Peru’s very own songwriting legend. An immersive and entertaining dining experience, one of our most popular events.

$45 per person / Reservations Required / 21+ AGES ONLY

2:00pm - 3:00pm: Charles Troy Presents - Part 1 - Festival Showroom at Miami County Museum

Delve into the genius of Cole Porter with an enlightening multi-media seminar: “Porter Before Paris” exploring the 1928 ‘MusicComedy’ that made Cole Porter a Broadway success. Presented by acclaimed theatre historian Charles Troy. Featuring guest singer Elizabeth Doyle performing Cole Porter songs live at the Museum’s vintage piano. We are honored to have Charles making his 11th appearance at Peru’s Cole Porter Festival!

12 per person / Reservations Recommended / Running Time: 45 minutes

3:00pm - 4:00pm: COLE PORTER EXHIBIT at MIAMI COUNTY MUSEUM

Visit the heart of the festival: world-famous Miami County Museum, to experience a vast exhibit of Cole Porter history, art and memorabilia. Including Cole’s glamorous 1955 Fleetwood Cadillac on display.  This one-of-a-kind collection is a precious gem of Indiana.

$5 donation appreciated

6:00pm - 9:00pm: Cocktails & Cole - The Victorian Historic Roberts Home

A stately mansion serves as the backdrop for this nostalgic, fun mixer. Celebrate Cole Porter’s birthday with upscale cocktails and delicious hors d’oeuvres, as you enjoy Porter music by the fabulous Sandy Lomax of Indianapolis.

$40 per person / Reservations Recommended / 21+ AGES ONLY

10:00pm - 1:00 AM: Cole's Roaring 20's Cabaret! - Legend’s Cocktail Lounge

Happy Birthday Cole Porter! Vintage costumes and flapper dancing abound in this high-spirited event. Enjoy cocktails, beer and wine as you party to hit songs from the good old days. Nostalgia Entertainment provides an energetic, interactive live music performance, with guest appearances by Busker Janky, Ellen Mock, and comedy by Kalika. Charleston and Costume contests with prizes! And DJ-Karl keeps the party going with the sounds of Post-Modern Jukebox.

$15 admission / Cash Food & Bar / 21+ AGES ONLY / Advance Tickets Recommended

5th Street Music Stage

3:00pm: Tuxedo Juction
5:00pm: Peter & Company
6:30pm: Rachel-Erin & Lew
8:00pm: The Time Travelers
10:00pm: Tim Edwards' Barrelhouse

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