American Idol Makes Rare Exception to Allow James Durbin to Return Home
In an unexpected turn of events, James Durbin will be returning to Santa Cruz this Saturday, May 14th for a homecoming celebration. Some details of the day are still tentative, but the primary activities — a visit to Louden Nelson Center, a procession to the beach, and a concert at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk — will go on as planned.
“Originally, American Idol indicated that James’ return to Santa Cruz for Durbin Day depended on him making it to the final 3 because of obligations to the show,” said Kris Reyes, community relations director for the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. “After the results last night, we made a strong appeal to the show that he be allowed to attend his Santa Cruz homecoming as planned. Idol ultimately agreed,” he said.
The entire Santa Cruz community including organizers at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, City of Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz County Conference & Visitors Council and the Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce were united in their strong support and admiration for James’ accomplishments.
“Our community is extremely proud of James, ” said Santa Cruz Mayor Ryan Coonerty. “And we’re excited that American Idol made this exception to allow him to return home to a big Santa Cruz welcome,” he said.
2:30-3:15: Press Event with James Durbin at Louden Nelson
3:15 - 4:15: Kids Rally at Louden Center
4:30 – 5:00: Walking Procession to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
5:00: Durbin joins the White Album Ensemble for 3 songs (White Album Ensemble starts playing at 4pm)
James’ connection to Santa Cruz has been felt worldwide. This morning, calls and emails flooded into the Santa Cruz County Conference & Visitors Council, Santa Cruz City Hall, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce offices from Durbin fans as far away as Singapore who were disappointed with last night’s results.
“We are pleased that fans, both locally and from far away, will have the chance to celebrate with us tomorrow during James’ visit to Santa Cruz,” said Maggie Ivy, Santa Cruz County Conference & Visitors Council CEO.
For the latest information as the day’s events continue to develop, check the following Web sites for more information: http://www.beachboardwalk.com/durbinday/ http://www.santacruz.org/things/james-durbin.php
Be sure to download a free sign or poster to show James your support!
Click on an image above to download a free poster or flyer to wave at the parade.