The “Yes I Can” program, which partners mentally challenged students with general education mentors, has been looking forward to this event all year long.  The Summer Meltdown Concert has taken many weeks of preparing, countless hours of planning, and an incredible passion for music.  All the proceeds from the concert will go towards the production’s expenses and anything left over will fund the “Yes I Can” program.  


Going on its 5th year now, the concert has come a long way since its first debut in 2004.  At the 1st annual concert, the students had organized 8 bands and arranged for the concert to take place at the Sports Complex Center.  Since then, the concert has become increasingly popular among both students and adults.  Bret Lieberman, Golden Valley High School’s “Yes I Can” program director said that he has had bands call him to come back and play at the students’ concert.  “We’ve had bands say that they want to come back the next year because they had such a blast last time.  They just love the kids.”  


This year, the Class of 2008 has organized an impressive 12 band line up, featuring the hit rock band, TRAPT.  Having toured with Nickelback, and Three Days Grace, Trapt has also released two EPs, one live album, and two full length albums with a third expected to be released in August 2008. Their biggest hit "Headstrong" was #1 on the US Modern Rock Chart and was ranked #16 on the US Hot 100.   


Also making a special appearance is Stephen Perkins from Jane’s Addiction.  Lieberman said that Perkins has promised not only a drum circle for the audience, but also a special guest that will be revealed on May 10th at the actual event.  


Other bands that are set to perform are: Guilt by Association (contestant on “Battle for Ozzfest”), Conjob (Run, Walk & Roll Festival 1st Place winner),  Cry Havoc (rock band from Hunington Beach, and recently featured on KROQ), The Craze (who has performed at the Meltdown for three years in a row), Mission Black (a rock-hybrid band), Canadian based Surface Rising, Un:armed (who was set to perform at the recent Amgen "Rock the Bike" event which was rained out), ska band Maxwell Smart, and the hit band from Santa Clarita, Renfue.       


Lieberman said that this concert not only raises autism and social inclusion awareness but also gives the kids a learning experience. “These kids are smart academically but they often times have difficulty socializing and communicating with other teens.  But I’ve seen kids make such an improvement.  They’ll listen to their iPods, talk with other teens about new music, wear rock band t-shirts, and they have a great time.”


The concert will be held at Golden Valley High School’s Ampitheatre.   


For more information, click here.

You can either buy your presale tickets online by clicking here or picking them up at select Hart District School ASB offices.  Tickets will also be offered on the day of the event for a price of $20. Refreshments and food will also be sold at the concert.

Gates will open at 2:00 p.m. with the first band hitting the stage at 2:30 p.m..