For the Reporter

Children’s entertainer and musician Dan Zanes performs at 3 p.m. Saturday, March 22 at the Auburn Performing Arts Center, part of the Ave Kid Series.

The Dan Zanes Song Gusto Hour – a fun, festive performance – is a chance for families and people of all ages to gather and sing at the top of their lungs with Grammy Award-winning musician Zanes.

Gusto Hour atmosphere is loose, communal, and festive. Songbooks can be downloaded in advance and people are invited to bring their own instruments. Join the pre-party from 2-3 p.m. in the lobby to make a special musical instrument (courtesy of the Auburn Youth Council).

Zanes, acclaimed by Time Magazine as the leading “Star of Kindie Rock,” is at the forefront of the wave of independent children’s music. Zanes has toured throughout the world, sharing his handmade 21st century social music with enthusiastic crowds of kids and kid sympathizers.

He has released 12 original albums, which introduced new songs and reconnected people of all ages to songs that have always been there – although they’re often forgotten or hiding under a rock.

Referred to as “the family-music genre’s most outspoken and eloquent advocate” by Time Magazine, his widely acclaimed music has all been featured on “Sesame Street”, “Playhouse Disney”, Nickelodeon, HBO Family and Sprout.

Tickets are $10. Call Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation at 253-931-3043, Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m; Friday, 8 a.m. to noon, or order online for Will-Call only pickup at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/433820.