BLUES FOR THE BLUE WELCOMES SPECIAL GUEST

NEW BEDFORD, MA (February 22, 2011)

The Ocean Explorium announces that 12-year-old guitar virtuoso Quinn Sullivan will join Neal McCarthy and Friends for the Blues for the Blue concert on Saturday, March 5.  "We are happy to highlight Quinn and his extraordinary talent", said Jen Costa, coordinator.  "It's not every day that a gifted 12-year-old graces the stage and we are proud to present him at our event."

Quinn picked up his first guitar at the age of three and has been stunning audiences ever since.  In 2006 he caught the attention of the Ellen Degeneres Show and was invited to perform his version of "Twist and Shout".  In 2007 Quinn's world turned upside down when he met Grammy award winning blues legend Buddy Guy at the Zeiterion Theater in New Bedford.  Buddy called him onstage and Quinn has never looked back.  Sullivan is set to take the music world by storm with the March 22 release of his debut CD, "Cyclone".  With the help of Buddy Guy and Grammy nominated producer Tom Hambridge, Quinn is poised to make his mark on the industry.  When asked about his plans for the future Quinn says, "I see myself doing this for a long, long time.  I can't wait for "Cyclone" to be released and to start touring this spring!!"

Blues for the Blue will begin at 7 pm at Tifereth Israel Congregation in New Bedford.  Neal McCarthy and Friends return with Classic Blues, while Santa Mamba adds their signature Latin Roots Rock to this second annual concert and Ocean Explorium benefit.

Tickets are $30 in advance, $25 for Ocean Explorium Members.  All tickets will be $35 at the door the night of the concert.  Tickets may be purchased online at the Ocean Explorium website, www.oceanexplorium.org, at the Ocean Explorium, or by telephone at 508.994.5400.  Baker Books, Black Bass Grille, CV General Store, Down to Earth Natural Foods, Hot Music, The Book Stall and The Green Bean are also selling Blues for the Blues tickets.

Blues for the Blue proceeds support ongoing education programs at the Ocean Explorium where over 10,000 students have participated in formal science education school field trips.

The Ocean Explorium is located at 174 Union Street in downtown New Bedford and is handicap accessible via the rear entrance. 

Ocean Explorium hours of operation are Thursday through Friday, 10 am - 4 pm.

Visit www.oceanexplorium.org or call 508.994.5400 for more information.