- WELCOME TO OUR INTERNATIONAL VILLAGE FESTIVAL'S WEBPAGE -
Heyyy... It's Mikey Dee!When it comes to the McKeesport International Village festival, can anyone really say that they know it better than Mikey Dee?
This talented entertainer and McKeesport native has been involved with what is known as the country's largest mid-week celebration of ethnic food, heritage and diversity. Originally a member of a strolling musicians act led by his grandfather Joe Pavlecic, Mikey Dee's presence at the festival eventually progressed into the role of entertainment coordinator and Master of Ceremonies. Through it all, the man behind the microphone has truly embraced his festival duties and enjoyed the 'celebrity status' that it has given him. And now Mikey Dee is providing the McKeesport Bands website with an insider's point of view of the festival along with the latest information and official performance schedules. The administration of the McKeesport Bands website cordially invites International Village patrons to check our webpage which proudly serves as an alternative source for the latest and most accurate festival information. Welcome to Mikey Dee's INTERNATIONAL VILLAGE Entertainment Guide! |
DID YOU KNOW? MIKEY DOES...
This is Mikey Dee's 30th year as an entertainer at International Village. Also, the 20th year as a committee member and 16th year as The Master of Ceremonies! Considering his relationship with some of the original members of the 1st International Village, and his story listening and telling experiences over the years, he is the "go to guy" for history information. |
MIKEY DEE STORY TIME -
I’m grateful for the opportunity to be involved with the International Village leadership. The cultural and musical experiences have always been an influence growing up in McKeesport. I am committed to help preserve the integrity of traditional music and food from our families’ heritage. This year is my 30th year of entertaining on stage and 16th year as The Master of Ceremonies. Over the years, I have many great memories. When you see me at The Village, say hello and share with me your favorite stories. I love to tell these stories on stage. One of my favorite stories was when I was M.C. on stage and a group that was supposed to be up next didn’t show. I only had a few minutes notice. Fortunately, I grew up with many talented musical friends. So I raced through the crowd looking for help. Who remembers the twins Dan and Dave Vranesevic? There they were, in the back of the Serbian booth preparing traditional food to serve…Bingo! Then, I go over to the Croatian booth. With his apron around his neck from chopping lamb, Joe Cindric. We can do this! But we still needed one more. Walking by was Dan Puhala. HEYYY! (as the traditional chant). Dan was The Chief of The Auxiliary Police for the International Village, in full uniform. We all grabbed our instruments and headed for the stage. But we needed a name. And now, I present to you the one, the only …The Village People Tamburitzans. Of course, we offered our own rendition of YMCA. The crowd loved it !!! Thanks to my talented friends. They never missed a beat and the rest was history.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to be involved with the International Village leadership. The cultural and musical experiences have always been an influence growing up in McKeesport. I am committed to help preserve the integrity of traditional music and food from our families’ heritage. This year is my 30th year of entertaining on stage and 16th year as The Master of Ceremonies. Over the years, I have many great memories. When you see me at The Village, say hello and share with me your favorite stories. I love to tell these stories on stage. One of my favorite stories was when I was M.C. on stage and a group that was supposed to be up next didn’t show. I only had a few minutes notice. Fortunately, I grew up with many talented musical friends. So I raced through the crowd looking for help. Who remembers the twins Dan and Dave Vranesevic? There they were, in the back of the Serbian booth preparing traditional food to serve…Bingo! Then, I go over to the Croatian booth. With his apron around his neck from chopping lamb, Joe Cindric. We can do this! But we still needed one more. Walking by was Dan Puhala. HEYYY! (as the traditional chant). Dan was The Chief of The Auxiliary Police for the International Village, in full uniform. We all grabbed our instruments and headed for the stage. But we needed a name. And now, I present to you the one, the only …The Village People Tamburitzans. Of course, we offered our own rendition of YMCA. The crowd loved it !!! Thanks to my talented friends. They never missed a beat and the rest was history.
ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE
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ENTERTAINMENT DISCLAIMER
The McKeesport International Village Festival entertainment schedule is subject to change without notice due to performer emergencies, inclement weather conditions, and any other unexpected issues which may occur prior to performance start times.
A VILLAGE FOR KIDS
