Lightning and heavy rain sent attendees running for cover at the Prairie Village Jazz Festival Saturday night.
The event started at 3 p.m. and was supposed to last until about 10 p.m., but was called off just after 6 p.m., when sprinkles turned into a thunderstorm.
After a rain delay, organizers announced the festival would not resume.
Prior to the cancellation, the weather had not dampened the spirits of those who came to Harmon Park to listen to jazz, armed with umbrellas.
“I’m so glad they still did it with the rain,” said Richie Wolfe of Kansas City, Missouri.
Wolfe was at the festival with friends Lily Barclay and Josh Barclay of Grandview, Missouri.
“Five dollars is an incredible price for quality musicianship,” said Josh Barclay.
Musicians who took the stage before the storm included the Shawnee Mission East Blue Knights jazz band, Nick Hmeljak’s Open Channel and Stanley Sheldon’s Rhythm Republic.
The weather took a turn for the worse right at the end of Rhythm Republic’s scheduled set.
Despite the wet conditions, jazz lovers soaked up the music they did hear.
“We were here last year, and we loved it. We’re going to make it an annual thing,” said Brian Sorell of Olathe.
He brought his wife, Colette, and two granddaughters.
“Everyone’s here for one reason, and it’s to listen to music,” said Eva Sorell.
Various food trucks were available from local vendors such as The Mad Greek and Smoke ’n’ Seoul, and other local organizations including the Johnson County Library and the Folly
Theater had informational booths that attendees could visit.
More pictures:
