24-04-2025
DPAO's Concerts for a Cause series diversifies
Apr. 23—WATERTOWN — Taylor Swift, in her current stratospheric pop star status, won't be coming to the north country to perform anytime soon. But for "Swifties" who need a live concert fix, the Disabled Persons Action Organization Concert Series has booked what could be the next best thing.
The DPAO has announced the first three events of its 2025 Concerts for a Cause series. As it celebrates 51 years of bringing high-quality entertainment to the north country, DPAO has expanded its programming to include diverse experiences, combining concerts with new non-concert events to raise funds and awareness for its mission.
—On Saturday, May 17, DPAO will host "Play for a Cause," a charity casino night at the Caprara -Faichney Drive Business Center's banquet room, 1291 Faichney Drive, Watertown. The evening will include: Classic casino games including blackjack, double roulette, Texas hold 'em, craps, three-card poker and a casino money wheel — all played with DPAO "Casino Fun Money."
Live music from Rochester-based band Music of the Stars begins at 9 p.m. The gambling floor will be open from 6 to 9. There will be complimentary food and a cash beer and wine bar. General admission tickets are $50. They are available at Kinney Drug Stores, the DPAO Foundation office at 1291 Faichney Drive and online at
Play for a Cause is presented by North Star Alliance, the town of Watertown, Watertown Savings Bank, FX Caprara Honda, Upstate Honda Dealers Association and Empire Casino Events.
—On Saturday, May 31, EDM Fest will be held at Caprara- Faichney Drive Business Center's banquet room. DPAO says that the electronic dance music festival will be the north country's biggest EDM event of the year. It will feature DJ Ryan Ess and DJ Trey Thompson and headliner DJ Terin Thompson.
General admission tickets are $25 and will go on sale soon.
—Twist on Taylor — A Taylor Swift Tribute Experience, will take the stage at the Watertown Fairgrounds Arena at 7 p.m., Friday, June 13. Doors open at 5.
The Taylor Swift tribute is a show by Sarah Jessica Rhodes, who was born in Texas and raised in Las Vegas. Her Taylor Swift impersonation started with her uncanny resemblance and similar voice which landed her a spot on the long running Las Vegas show, "The Super Stars of Country" and now to her own creation, "A Twist On Taylor" delighting Taylor Swift fans across the country.
General admission tickets are $35 and "pit" admission tickets are $50. DPAO said that tickets will be available soon.
DPAO's Concerts for a Cause series helps fund vital services for individuals with developmental disabilities across the region.
