Goo Goo Dolls Headline “Artists For Autism” Concert to Benefit IAR

March 18, 2016

The Goo Goo Dolls will headline a concert to benefit the Institute for Autism Research (IAR) at Canisius University on Saturday, April 16.

Buffalo, NY - The Goo Goo Dolls will headline a concert to benefit the Institute for Autism Research (IAR) at Canisius University on Saturday, April 16 at 8 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center at Rockwell Hall, SUNY Buffalo State.  The concert, “Artists for Autism,” will feature an acoustic set by the multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated Goo Goo Dolls. The concert will also include performances by singer-songwriter Cassandra Kubinski and violinist and vocalist Mary Ramsey of 10,000 Maniacs.

“Artists for Autism” is the vision of famed music producer Armand Petri, whose credits include work with the Goo Goo Dolls, 10,000 Maniacs, Sixpence None the Richer, and many other artists. Petri’s son, AJ, is autistic and participated in one of the IAR’s programs. After seeing great improvement in his son’s social and communication skills, Petri wanted to help create greater awareness for this community resource.

In 2013, Kubinski composed “Not So Different.” After hearing the song, Petri thought it would provide a tuneful vehicle to shine a light on the need for additional autism research. Petri reached out to close friends and associates to record a new version of the song. His friend, John Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls, offered his full support. Similarly, Ramsey of John and Mary and 10,000 Maniacs fame, quickly agreed to lend her voice. Along with Kubinski, the three performers recorded a new version of “Not So Different” to be released on the same day as the April 16 concert.

All proceeds from the song will also benefit the Institute for Autism Research at Canisius.

The concert will open with a short set by Kubinski, who will then be joined by Ramsey and guitarist Jeff Erickson to perform songs from the 10,000 Maniacs catalog.  An acoustic set from the Goo Good Dolls will highlight the evening.  The world premiere performance of “Not so Different” will conclude the concert.

Tickets are $30-$35 with a special VIP Meet and Greet option for $125. Tickets are available now at the Rockwell Hall Box Office, 1300 Elmwood Avenue, by calling (716) 878-3005 or online at buffalostatepac.org.

Canisius is one of 28 Jesuit universities in the nation and the premier private university in Western New York.

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