Dec 18, 2023 | Breaking News, Community Relations, Entertainment
Unwoke wins the $5,000 grand prize and will headline a show in the Wolf Den on Saturday, June 15, 2024
UNCASVILLE, CT (December 18, 2023) –Unwoke from Montville, Connecticut was crowned 2023 Locals Live Champions after the finals on Wednesday, December 13th at Mohegan Sun’s Wolf Den. As part of the grand prize, Unwoke won $5,000 and will headline a show in the Wolf Den on Saturday, June 15, 2024. Modern Country band The Rakes from Litchfield County, CT took 2nd place and received a $1,000 cash prize.
Unwoke, The Rakes, and third-place solo act KENNII from East Haven, CT, were named finalists after an exciting four week-contest hosted by Mohegan Sun and Hall Communications. Twelve bands were originally selected to perform live in the Wolf Den and competed in groups throughout November. Unwoke, The Rakes, and KENNII advanced to the finals after winning their respective first-round battles.
On Wednesday night, the finals attracted an enthusiastic crowd. Attendees were urged to dance to their preferred bands to earn points for crowd participation. The judges’ final decision was based on the audience’s reaction, stage presence, musical presentation, and originality.
“It’s an incredible honor to be acknowledged as the 2023 Locals Live champion,” said Sean Higgins, singer/songwriter of Unwoke. “The Wolf Den atmosphere was second to none from an energy standpoint. That’s as close to Madison Square Garden as it gets for us ’local musicians’!
Unwoke is a three-piece Rock band based out of Montville, CT. The band formed in 2019, featuring Sean Higgins as the lead song writer, guitarist, and vocalist, and Dave Apanashk handling the bass and vocals. Joe Sardo is the man behind the drums.
Most would consider the trio a cross between Metal and Hard Rock. Some songs have a Metallica/Iron Maiden type of sound while others less Metal. The group specializes in Classic Rock covers for familiarity with their own original music mixed in.
The panel of guest judges at the Locals Live finals were Carl Strube, President of Critique Records, Simone Oliva, of “Tip the Van”, and independent Country singer, songwriter, and Locals Live 2022 champion Nick Bosse.
A gallery of Unwoke’s winning performance can be found here.
ABOUT THE WOLF DEN
Located in the center of the action, in Casino of the Earth, the always popular Wolf Den offers full beverage service, a state-of-the-art sound system, intimate seating and top performances by entertainers like Ludacris, The Marshall Tucker Band, Warrant, Sister Hazel, Chubby Checker, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Queensrÿche and Run-DMC – and it’s all free!
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun
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Dec 11, 2023 | Breaking News, Community Relations, General News
Unwoke, KENNII and The Rakes compete for a $5,000 grand prize and a headlining show at the Wolf Den
UNCASVILLE, CT (December 11, 2023) – The final round of the 2023 Locals Live competition, hosted Mohegan Sun and Hall Communications, is here, and the winners of the previous three Locals Live rounds will compete for more than just bragging rights! A $5,000 grand prize and a headlining show on the main stage in the renowned Wolf Den are on the line as a champion will be crowned on Wednesday, December 13th. Major entertainers such as Thomas Rhett, LL Cool J, Gary Hoey, and North Stonington native Nick Bosse, the winner of last year’s Locals Live competition, have rocked the Wolf Den stage at Mohegan Sun.
Guest judges Carl Strube of Critque Records, Simone Oliva, of “Tip the Van”, and Locals Live 2022 winner Nick Bosse will play a pivotal role in deciding the official Locals Live 2023 champion. Prior to the competition, guests can enjoy a special performance by Nick Bosse. Bosse and The Northern Roots will be back on the Wolf Den stage Friday, December 15th for a free show kicking off at 8:00pm.
Locals Live Final Round Lineup:
Unwoke
Unwoke is a three-piece Rock band based out of Montville, CT. The band formed in 2019, featuring Sean Higgins as the lead song writer, guitarist, and vocalist, and Dave Apanashk handling the bass and vocals. Joe Sardo is the man behind the drums.
Most would consider the trio a cross between Metal and Hard Rock. Some songs have a Metallica/Iron Maiden type of sound while others less Metal. The group specializes in Classic Rock covers for familiarity with their own original music mixed in.
KENNII
KENNII, also known as Kenny Araujo, is a 26-year-old R&B singer/songwriter from East Haven, CT. He started writing and singing in 2013 and has been chasing his dream ever since. KENNII was featured on NBC’s The Voice Season 5 where he auditioned for the four original judges. He unfortunately didn’t make it onto a team, but that didn’t stop him! KENNII went on to get a music manager out in New York City, leading to performances at the Miss Connecticut Pageant and News 8’s Good Morning Connecticut!
KENNI just released a single called “I Know” featuring Grammy nominated songwriter John Concepcion for his new album called “Infinity”, set to release on December 15, 2023.
The Rakes
The Rakes are a modern Country band that seamlessly weaves the tapestry of Country music’s rich history with a contemporary twist. Formed in 2015, this talented ensemble breathes new life into both classic and modern Country hits.
Hailing from Litchfield County, CT, The Rakes features Marc Poliquin on lead vocals, Frank Salerno on lead guitar, Chris Allan on rhythm guitar, Bob Sherman on bass, Scott Sullivan on drums, and Roberto Nicolia on keyboards. The Rakes cover a spectrum of Country legends, from the timeless tales of Johnny Cash to the iconic sounds of George Strait, and Brooks and Dunn. Their magic lies in reinventing hits from modern artists like Zach Bryan, Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, and many more. Each song is infused with a fresh perspective that resonates with fans across generations.
Admission to attend Locals Live is free, and all guests must be 21+ to enter the Wolf Den. Drink specials include $4 Michelob Ultras. Guests may line up no sooner than three hours before the show. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. One guest can hold four spots in line, but seats will only be given to those present at the time of seating. All guests must be 21 or older to enter the Wolf Den.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun
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Sep 25, 2023 | Breaking News, Community Relations, Entertainment
Grand prize winner of this special music competition will receive $5,000 and a headlining show at the Wolf Den
UNCASVILLE, CT (September 25, 2023) – Local bands and musicians will have the chance to turn dreams into reality during Locals Live! Mohegan Sun and Hall Communications will host another exciting four-week competition where local talent battle for a $5,000 grand prize. The Locals Live champion will also get the opportunity to headline their own show in the award-winning Wolf Den, where acts like Thomas Rhett, LL Cool J, Barenaked Ladies, and last year’s Locals Live winner Nick Bosse based out of North Stonington, CT have graced the stage. Submissions can be made from Monday, September 25th to Wednesday, October 25th through the WCTY website.
Mohegan Sun and Hall Communications will select nine bands/musicians plus two alternates, and three acts per week will compete live every Wednesday from November 15th – December 6th (excluding November 22nd) from 8:00pm to 10:00pm. A live vote from the crowd will determine who will advance on the path to the most epic musical showdown in town, the final competition, on Wednesday, December 13th. At the finals, guest and celebrity judges will play a pivotal role in deciding the official Locals Live champion.
Admission to attend Locals Live is free, and guests can enjoy $4 Michelob Ultra and Bud Light specials. Guests may line up no sooner than three hours before the show. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. One guest can hold four spots in line, but seats will only be given to those present at the time of seating. All guests must be 21 or older to enter the Wolf Den.
For the purposes of this competition, talent is defined as musicians, bands, or singer-songwriters only. All talent must be 21 years of age or older and from CT, RI, MA or NY. Performers must adhere to all Mohegan Sun rules and sign a guidelines contract prior to performance. Talent must be able to set up by 5:00pm on date of performance for sound check. All rules subject to change/management interpretation.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun
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Aug 29, 2023 | Entertainment, General News, Special Events
Country music singer and songwriter Morgan Evans will take the Wolf Den stage to benefit Mothers Against Drunk Driving
WHAT: MADD About Morgan Evans – A Mothers Against Drunk Driving 15th Annual Benefit returns to the Wolf Den at Mohegan Sun in October. Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction where all proceeds to benefit Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). The MADD About Morgan Evans concert a free event!
WHEN/WHERE: Friday, October 13th
8:00pm
Wolf Den at Mohegan Sun
IN DETAIL: Guests are invited to enjoy a special night in the Wolf Den at Mohegan Sun as Morgan Evans will be the entertainment featured for the 15th annual MADD benefit. Other MADD festivities include a silent auction happening daily from Friday, October 13th through Sunday, October 15th. The three-day auction is located in The Shops at Mohegan Sun and will be from Noon until 10:00pm each day. Donations to MADD will also be accepted at the silent auction throughout the night.
Sponsors for the event include Trantolo & Trantolo, Walmart, Uber, WCTY, CRMK INC, Buckley Wynne & Parese Law, Fundación Mapfre, Outfront Media, The Day and Comix Roadhouse.
Guests must be 21 years of age to enter the Wolf Den. Guests may line up no sooner than three hours before the show. Come early, seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. One person can hold four spots in line, but seats will only be given to those present at the time of seating. Limited seating available.
For more information, visit mohegansun.com.
ABOUT MORGAN EVANS
Australian-born country phenom Morgan Evans is striking a chord with fans with the release of his new single “Over For You.” Evans debuted the deeply personal track, lauded by Billboard as “absolutely one of [his] best releases to date,” during his headlining set at Australia’s CMC Rocks QLD Festival, in front of a sold out 25,000 fans. Clips of the emotional performance amassed hundreds of thousands of views, as well as thousands of comments filled with shared stories of heartbreak, all within just a few days, prompting its immediate release to country radio. The vulnerable song follows Evans’ latest EP, The Country And The Coast Side A, where he set aside his signature loop pedal to collaborate with a band of musicians for the first time in his U.S. career. The EP builds outward and upward from the foundation Evans created with his debut album Things That We Drink To, which arrived Top 10 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart and features the Gold-certified No. 1 debut single “Kiss Somebody.” Evans has forged a path as one of the genre’s most promising stars, with recognition from Rolling Stone, Billboard, CMT, People, SiriusXM, Pandora, The Bobby Bones Show, The Tennessean and more. Already established as a global country force, the singer / songwriter and entertainer has teamed up with Apple Music to showcase performers from all over the world on Country Wide Radio with Morgan Evans. He has toured with artists including Taylor Swift, Dan + Shay, Cole Swindell, Brett Eldredge, Old Dominion, Rascal Flatts and Chris Young in addition to sharing his own one-of-a-kind headlining show with sold-out audiences spanning eight countries across three continents.
ABOUT MADD
The mission of Mothers Against Drunk Driving is to stop drunk driving, to support the victims of this violent crime and to prevent underage drinking. MADD Connecticut is committed to clearly and powerfully advocating for victims of alcohol – related crashes. MADD delivers quality services to hundreds of families each year at no cost to them, as well as help victims/survivors through the multitude of emotions and criminal proceedings that take place through court accompaniment and by providing grief counseling and support groups. MADD’s goal is to eliminate drunk driving and educate Connecticut youth about underage drinking. MADD introduces and follows legislation concerning bills to strengthen drunk driving laws.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun.
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Jun 14, 2023 | Breaking News, Community Relations, Entertainment, Food & Beverage, Hot Summer Fun
All summer long, listen to live music at Party on the Sun Patio, the Wolf Den, and Mohegan Sun Arena!
UNCASVILLE, CT (June 14, 2023) – As Mohegan Sun rolls into the 26th year of Hot Summer Fun, experience all the scorching hot entertainment available for all kinds of concert and live entertainment aficionados. Mohegan Sun is the biggest producer of live casino entertainment events in the Northeast, with nearly 250 events across six venues over the entire 10 weeks of Hot Summer Fun. From live entertainment in Mohegan Sun Arena, The Lalas Burlesque Show in The Cabaret Theatre, and free performances in the Wolf Den, to Party on the Sun Patio, Connecticut Sun home games and comedy shows at Comix Roadhouse, there is no other place to experience a greater variety of entertainment all summer long.
Mohegan Sun Arena – The stage of our award-winning arena lights up with the hottest acts of the season! Big Time Rush, July 1st| Barenaked Ladies with special guests Five For Fighting & Del Amitri, July 7th|Motionless In White & In This Moment, July 8th| Tony Orlando’s Salute To America – A Summer Yacht Rock Special, July 15th| Theo Von, July 21st| Matchbox Twenty, July 22nd| Lainey Wilson, July 28th| Howie Mandel, July 29th| Volbeat with special guest Halestorm, August 3rd| Dan + Shay, August 5th| 5 Seconds of Summer, August 10th| Incubus with special guests Badflower & Paris Jackson, August 13th| Jonas Brothers, August 17th| Train with special guest Better Than Ezra, August 19th| Foreigner – The Historic Farewell Tour with special guest Loverboy ,September 1st| Jeff Dunham, September 2nd.
To purchase tickets, visit the Mohegan Sun Box Office or ticketmaster.com. Show times and performers are subject to change.
Wolf Den – Located in the center of the action in Casino of the Earth, the 300-seat Wolf Den offers free weekly entertainment for guests ages 21 years and older since its opening in 1996. The Wolf Den always has something to offer everyone, from up-and-coming talent to New England’s top acts, performing Classic Rock, R&B, Country and so much more.
July Wolf Den line up: Mike DelGuidice, Saturday, July 1st| The Cartells, Sunday, July 2nd| Alex Shillo, Thursday, July 6th| Chubby Checker, Saturday, July 8th|Juice Box, Sunday, July 9th| Franklin Brothers Band, Thursday, July 13th| Queensryche, Saturday, July 15th| The 60’s Explosion Show, Sunday, July 16th|Southside County, Thursday, July 20th| F & Blues Band, Sunday, July 23rd| Raise Your Hands – A Tribute to Bon Jovi, Thursday, July 27th| The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Saturday, July 29th| Dr. K’s Motown Revue, Sunday, July 30th.
August Wolf Den line up: Wild Nights Thursday, August 3rd| Lit Saturday, August 5th| Ticket to Ride Sunday, August 6th| Last Licks Thursday, August 10th| Sheena Easton Saturday, August 12th| Crazy on You Sunday, August 13th|American Honey Thursday, August 17th| The Modern Gentleman Saturday, August 19th| Plain Jane Sunday, August 20tht|Chase McDaniel Thursday, August 24th| Badfish Saturday, August 26th| Main Street Cruisers Sunday, August 27th|Red Light Thursday, August 31st.
Guests must be 21 years of age to enter the Wolf Den. Guests may line up no sooner than three hours before the show. Come early as limited seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. One person can hold four spots in line, but seats will only be given to those present at the time of seating.
Swing by Party on the Sun Patio for the best over 21 fun every Friday night during Hot Summer Fun from 7:00pm to 11:00pm. The Sun Patio will transform into a space where guests can enjoy drink specials, fire pits, food trucks, and yard games while listening to some of the best tribute bands around.
All guests must be 21 or older and have valid photo ID to attend Party on the Sun Patio. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, however, guests are welcome to bring their own chairs! Guests are not permitted to bring coolers or outside food/beverages. Bands and food trucks subject to change. Parties who reserve a fire pit can enjoy a complimentary first round of drinks for six to eight people per fire pit! For reservations, call/visit: https://mohegansun.com/poi/venues/sun-patio.html#firepit
Party on the Patio line up: Chicken Fried, a tribute to Zac Brown Band, on June 30th|Vegas McGraw & Tim McGraw Tribute, a Tim McGraw tribute, on July 7th| Simply Shania, a tribute to Shania Twain, on July 14th| Big Eyed Phish, a Dave Matthews Band tribute, on July 21st| Captain Fantastic, an Elton John tribute, on July 28th|Queen Flash, a tribute to Queen, on August 4th| Dumb As You Are, a tribute to Nirvana, on August 11th| No Shoes Nation, a tribute to Kenny Chesney, on August 18th| Tramps Like Us, a tribute to Bruce Springsteen, on August 25th| The Journey Show, on September 1st.
There will not be rain dates or make-up dates. In the event of inclement weather, cancellations (only) will be announced by 2:00pm on the day of the event and bands will perform in the Wolf Den.
The WNBA’s Connecticut Sun call Mohegan Sun their home. Coming off their second WNBA finals appearance in four seasons, the 2022 league runner-up is now led by Stephanie White in her first season as head coach. Come support fans favorites like 4X All-Star DeWanna Bonner, 2022 AP Comeback Player of the Year Alyssa Thomas, and 2021 Most Improved Player Brionna Jones during home games at Mohegan Sun Arena.
Connecticut Sun home schedule: Seattle Storm Thursday, July 6th| Washington Mystics Sunday, July 9th| Atlanta Dream Thursday, July 20th | Minnesota Lynx Sunday, July 30th | Chicago Sky Tuesday, August 1st |Dallas Wings Friday, August 18th | New York Liberty Thursday, August 24th| Los Angeles Sparks Sunday, August 27th|Phoenix Mercury Thursday, August 31st.
Those who want to get closer to world-class performers can pull up a seat in The Cabaret Theatre. With 400 seats and an intimate atmosphere, The Cabaret Theatre brings guests face-to-face with some of the biggest names in entertainment, including The Lalas Burlesque Show! The best in burlesque take the stage on Saturday, August 5th for a 21+ show at 9:00pm. To purchase tickets, visit the Mohegan Sun Box Office or ticketmaster.com.
Comix Roadhouse is home to live comedy, country music, dance, and mouthwatering food and drinks. The Comedy Club inside Comix Roadhouse will host over 75 shows during Hot Summer Fun, including headliners Jimmy Cash, Nathan Macintosh, Samuel J. Comroe, and Mike Finoia. Don’t miss music every weekend in the Roadhouse, including Karaoke every Thursday night and live bands every Friday and Saturday night.
For more information on summer entertainment, visit MoheganSun.com.
ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN
Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @mohegansun, view us on YouTube and find us on Snapchat at username MoheganSun.
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