The Groove Merchants and The Hip Snacks

Founded in 2012 in the practice rooms and basements of Kutztown University, The Groove Merchants quickly discovered a chemistry rooted in blues, funk, and soul. Led by vocalist Tye Vallone, guitarist Luke Ferracone, and bassist John Evin Groome, the band has spent the last decade pushing a revival of authentic, high‑energy performance.

During the pandemic, they released their first live EP, Live at Morgan Creek, produced by organist Mark Brown of Hambone Relay. The record reimagines highlights from their third studio album The Throne alongside a powerful cover of Bob Dylan’s “I Shall Be Released,” earning praise from Philadelphia Weekly, The Key, and airplay on WXPN.

Now performing as a 9‑piece lineup—featuring Josh Maskornick (drums), Mike Talento (tenor sax), Jimmy Boyle (trumpet), John Bickel (Hammond organ), and Brie Parry & Jenny Founds (backing vocals)—the Philadelphia based band showcases its full, soulful sound on the 2023 single “Real Estate,” produced by Grammy‑winner Phil Joly. The track has received major rotation on WXPN and NPR affiliate WDIY, with new music planned for 2026.

In 2025, they debuted at Ardmore Music Hall supporting Start Making Sense. Since then, the Groove Merchants have appeared at 118 North, The Grape Room, Midnight Mountain Music Show, Blues, Brews & BBQ, Musikfest, and SteelStacks’ annual Turkey Jam. Wherever they play, the band brings relentless, soulful energy and a commitment to connection beyond the music.

The Groove Merchants appeared on our Soundbooth Sessions, a series of performances in 2020 which were streamed live over Facebook to entertain our Members and friends during the pandemic. They returned to a theater audience in 2021.

Artist Website

The Hip Snacks have once again captured their infectious energy in a way that’s both timeless and urgent with their upcoming second album Out On A Limb, out NOW. Fresh off the success of their second national tour supporting the album, recorded once again with legendary producer Steve Avedis, The Hip Snacks are not just a local gem anymore—they’re a national sensation, tearing across the country packing venues and leaving crowds buzzing.

Comprised of lead singer Kara Durante and her husband bassist Ben Suarez, guitarists Ricky Feria and Felipe Cantuaria, drummer Dave Auerbach, and keyboardist Adam Schini, The Hip Snacks are more than a band; they’re a movement—a feel-good revolution that’s growing faster than you can keep up. Catch them live, and you’ll understand why their audiences leave craving more. See the band at their upcoming festival stops, including Eagle River Jamboree and Ramble Fest, as well as shows across Colorado through year's end. You don’t just hear The Hip Snacks—you experience them. And trust us, you deserve this snack.

Artist Website



Be advised, Rows A-D have possible view obstruction from patrons up dancing in front of the stage. Rows F through row I are reserved for Theater Members until one month before the show. If you are a Theater Member, select your tickets using the price code that matches your Membership level and enter your Member ID into the Membership box on the checkout page. To inquire about Membership, call our Box Office at 215-257-5808 or click here.