The iconic multi-platinum-selling group America is all set to mark their 55th anniversary with an exciting series of tour dates in 2025. The highly anticipated Encore Tour 2025 will make a stop on March 8 at the Santander Performing Arts Center in Reading. Known for their timeless magic and powerful performances, this Grammy Award-winning perennial classic-rock favorite is all set to draw on their extensive catalog of hits.

America's Timeless Hits and Musical Journey

America's journey to becoming a global household name was a remarkable one. Their best-known tunes like "A Horse With No Name," which reached No. 1 on Billboard's Hot 100 in 1972, along with "I Need You," "Ventura Highway," "Don't Cross The River," "Tin Man," "Lonely People," and "Sister Golden Hair" were cornerstones of 1970s Top 40 and FM rock radio. Beyond their hits, listeners discovered a deeper side to America. The combination of melodic pop rock and folk-jazz elements, along with slinky Latin-leaning rhythms and impressionistic lyric imagery, set them apart from other traditional country-rock acts. Their albums, six of which are certified gold and/or platinum, including the first greatest hits collection "History" that sold over four million copies, showcased a fuller range of their talents. Their material encompassed an ambitious artistic swath, from effects-laden rockers to oddball medleys to soul-bearing ballads, demonstrating a flawless blend of disparate genres and styles.America enjoyed early success and earned their stripes as musical soldiers during the excess and chaos of the 1970s. They won the Grammy for Best New Artist in 1972 and worked with George Martin and Geoff Emerick from 1974, recording seven albums and several Top 10 hits. Their growth as singers, songwriters, and musicians continued with landmark releases like 2000's "Highway" three-disc box set, 2002's "Holiday Harmony," 2007's "Here & Now," 2009's "Live In Concert: Wildwood Springs," 2011's "Back Pages," and 2015's "Lost And Found" and "America: Archives Vol. 1." In 2020, they released the ultimate eight-disc anniversary box set "Half Century" and streamed their concert special "America — Live at the London Palladium" for the first time, available as a DVD and CD. The year also saw the release of the book "America, the Band, An Authorized Biography" by Jude Warne, with Billy Bob Thornton writing the foreword.As a testament to their staying power and influence, America's recordings have been licensed for numerous placements in films like "American Hustle," "The Nice Guys," "The Last Unicorn," and "Girl Most Likely," as well as television shows like "The Sopranos," "Friends," "Breaking Bad," and "Saturday Night Live," and video games including "Grand Theft Auto."From their early years, America has been able to transcend borders with their uplifting music and positive message. Their audiences continue to grow, comprising a loyal legion of first, second, and third-generation fans, a testament to their enduring appeal.

The Santander Performing Arts Center Events

The Santander Performing Arts Center has also announced some exciting events. On March 19 at 7 p.m., it's "Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue." On March 28 at 7:30 p.m., there's "Yellow Brick Joel: Face To Face Tribute." And on May 4 at 7 p.m., it's "We Are Messengers — Where the Joy Is Tour." Tickets for all these events are available at ticketmaster.com.

The GoggleWorks Center for the Arts

The GoggleWorks Center for the Arts in Reading has reopened its main entrance with a beautifully landscaped courtyard. From January through April, it offers over 100 classes and workshops in various fields like ceramics, warm glass, hot glass, fine metals, heavy metals, woodworking, fiber arts, printmaking, drawing and painting, photo and film, and more. Nationally renowned instructors will teach people of all ages and skill levels, encouraging them to unleash their creativity.February brings added excitement with Valentine's Day Maker Dates, a unique night out experience for couples. Each Maker Date combines art-making with a social twist, featuring beer, wine, and light fare for a memorable evening. On February 14, there's a Valentine's Day Dinner, giving couples a special way to enjoy food, fun, and artistry together.This season, GoggleWorks will welcome four acclaimed visiting wood artists. Dan Zobel will teach "Beyond the Basic Bowl," helping students refine their turning skills. Steve Latta will lead "Making a Card Table Leg," sharing his expertise in classic furniture design. Derek Weidman will present "Sculpting Wildlife with the Lathe" for those inspired by nature. Dave Heller will guide students in "Painting with Wood — Pictorial Marquetry," a detailed workshop on crafting intricate wood inlays."Having these renowned artists join us this season is an incredible honor," said Jesse Futter, marketing director at GoggleWorks. "Their diverse skills and artistry offer an invaluable opportunity for woodworkers of all backgrounds to learn directly from the best. It's a must for anyone interested in woodworking."GoggleWorks is also committed to engaging and inspiring young artists and families. Mini-Makers classes for children ages 7-12 allow families to explore art together and create lasting memories. For teens, Homeschool Classes are available for ages 13-17, providing a creative environment. Every Friday, parents and children ages 2-6 are invited to Create With Me, a fun hands-on program. With so much to explore, GoggleWorks promises an immersive, inspiring art experience this winter and spring. Early registration is recommended. For more information and to view the full class catalog, visit https://goggleworks.org/events-calendar/category/classes.