(Featured image provided by The Sherman Theater) Front – Project 9 band members. Back – Battle of the Bands Judges (L-R) Daniel Romagno, Dan Malsch, John Oakes

December 19, 2023 – Stroudsburg, PA –  The Sherman Theater is excited to announce the winner of the highly anticipated Battle of the Bands contest, where eight local and regional bands competed for the title.  After a night of diverse performances, the judges declared Project 9 as the winner who took home the title and the First Place cash prize of $800. 

The contest showcased a range of musical talent from country to rock to heavy metal.  The eight competing bands brought their A-game, captivating the fans and the judges with their exciting performances and original music.  The eight bands that were selected for the competition were: Azlyn, Into Sunday, Intoxxxication, Project 9, Suppress the Sky, The Nick Tauer Band, The Sex Monkeys and Traverse the Abyss.

In addition to the cash prize, Project 9 will receive a session to record a song at Soundmine Recording Studio.  Participating bands may also be considered to open for national shows, to participate in Sherman Showcase shows or other events. 

“We had the time of our lives!  We want to thank the Sherman Theater for the opportunity to rock it out on the big stage and for giving us a chance to compete and share our music with a wider audience.  It was the best time ever,” said the Project 9 band members.  The band consists of Rebecca Ripley – vocals, Russell Krutisia – guitar,  Mike Schuon – bass guitar, and Scott Fore – drums..

Bands were judged on musical talent, on-stage performance, and audience response. Judges for the event were Dan Malsch, owner of Soundmine Recording Studio and Soundmine Recording Academy in East Stroudsburg, John Oakes, owner of the Poconos Park amphitheater in Bushkill, and Daniel Romagno, talent buyer and booking agent for the Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg.

“The competition was fierce and each band brought something special to the stage. Part of the Sherman Theater’s mission is to offer performance opportunities to bands to nurture and promote local and regional talent, and this type of show helps fulfill that commitment.  It was a great night for the bands and the fans.  Watch for more Battle of the Band type shows in the future,” said Sherman Theater President and CEO Rich Berkowitz.

For tickets and more information on upcoming events, visit shermantheater.com or call our Box Office at 570-420-2808.

The Sherman Theater is Monroe County’s only nationally ranked, non-profit theater and performing arts center. Located in downtown Stroudsburg, PA, the Sherman Theater has proudly served the Pocono region for 90 years. The Theater and Performing Arts Center is committed to strengthening the community by producing culturally-diverse, nationally-known professional acts and festivals at the theater and at satellite locations throughout Monroe County for people of all ages, by providing an opportunity for local artists to perform, and by creating economic development in the region. The Sherman Theater projects and events attract over 100,000 visitors to the Pocono Region annually. For more information call 570-420-2808 or visit www.shermantheater.com.

Information provided to TVL by:
Brenda Block