Entertainment Extra - Your source for on screen entertainment from the Logansport Pharos-Tribune
Issue link: https://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/1502529
2 ENTERTAINMENT EXTRA By Dana Simpson TV Media I ndependence Day is full of numbers. Last Fourth of July, Americans collectively spent an average of $7.7 billion on food, more than $2.4 billion on fire- works and consumed in excess of 150 million hot dogs to cele- brate the 56 signatures marked on the Declaration of Independence in 1776 (per WalletHub.com). While the cele- brations have been consistently growing in size and grandeur since the first Fourth of July parade in 1785 (held in Bristol, Rhode Island) — with the excep- tion of times of turmoil, like the pandemic, of course — not all the festivities require revelers to leave their homes. In fact, this Fourth of July, TV viewers can enjoy countless hours of patriotic entertainment, ranging from unique, televised festivals to special episodes of favorite TV shows and major Hollywood films — we're look- ing at you "Independence Day" (1996) — across several net- works. Among the most notable view-from-home programs are Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular on NBC and PBS's "A Capitol Fourth," which airs from the nation's capital, Washington, D.C. As the events broadcast nationwide, however, please be sure to check your local listings for times and any additional information or local events. Since Macy's inaugural Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1924, New Yorkers have gath- ered to watch in awe of the pomp and circumstance. While the department store's Fourth of July festivities don't range quite as far back, their roots can be traced to a "pyrotechnic extrava- ganza" over the Hudson River on July 1, 1958, initially in celebra- tion of the shop's 100th anniver- sary. With approximately one mil- lion people in attendance that year, this fireworks spectacular gave rise to the festivities we know today. First hosted by Macy's in partnership with Disney in 1977, the vibrant dis- play has become a staple for Americans in person and on tele- vision. This year, the Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular airs live from New York City's East River on NBC and its streaming platform, Peacock. The 47th cele- bration of its kind, the event coordinators have promised "serious star power, electrifying performances and heart-pound- ing pyrotechnics." While the complete list of stars taking part in the event has yet to be announced as of press time, sig- nificant information has been shared regarding the musical score and performance, presided over by musical director Ray Chew (whose credits include "Showtime at the Apollo," "American Idol," "Dancing With the Stars" and more). "I am thrilled to be back to compose the fireworks score for the Macy's team and NBC," Chew said in a statement. "This year, we will recognize trailblaz- ers as we celebrate our country's independence through the voices of young people." Helping Chew to realize his vision for the score is the U.S. Army Field Band, accompanied by Sgt. First Class Kyra Dorn's "incredibly soulful vocals" for "God Bless America" and other well-known pieces. Additionally, rappers, R&B artists and fellow Staff Sgts. Nicholas Feemster and Lamar Riddick take to the mic for a heartfelt rendition of "Sea to Shining Sea." For those in or close to Manhattan and who wish to be a part of the three million or more attendees this year, the Macy's Spectacular is a free event, and more information — including the full list of artists, celebrities and performers, once announced — can be found online at Macys.com/fireworks. Over on PBS, meanwhile, a party kicks off in the nation's capital. Airing live (and in replay) from the Capitol in Washington, D.C., this year's "A Capitol Fourth" is hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro ("The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air"). The biggest draw of this event is without a doubt the concerts, which are open to on-site attendees and broad- cast crews all night on the grounds' West Lawn. The full list of performers can be found at PBS.org/a-capitol-fourth, including links to artist bios for Chicago, Boyz II Men, Babyface, Belinda Carlisle, Charles Esten and more. The Muppets of Sesame Street also make an appearance, as do the National Symphony Orchestra, the Northwell Nurse Choir, Patrick Lundy & the Ministers of Music and the cast of Broadway's Neil Diamond musical, "A Beautiful Noise." Of course, no Fourth of July celebration is complete without special recognition of the armed forces. This year, "A Capitol Fourth" is proud to welcome the Military District of Washington, the United States Army Band "Perishing's Own," The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets and the United States Presidential Salute Battery. Schwering Realty 2 x 2" Pear Tree Gallery 3 x 2" On the Cover Alfonso Ribeiro hosts "A Capitol Fourth" NBC, PBS present premium Fourth of July entertainment Chase Center 3 x 2" American Legion Post 60 2 x 3" Thrifty Muffler 2 x 2.5"