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Join the Portage County Historical Society for a one-of-a-kind evening celebrating the closing of Rhythms of the River: The History of Music in Portage County with a rare reunion performance by one of Central Wisconsin's most beloved blues bands.This is more than a concert, it's an immersive experience. Otis & The Alligators will perform inside the Rhythms of the River exhibit in the historic Old Plover Methodist Church at Heritage Park, surrounded by the stories, photographs, and artifacts that celebrate Portage County's rich musical heritage. With only 100 guests in attendance, this promises to be one of the most intimate performances the band has played in years.
Otis & The Alligators formed in Stevens Point in 1987 and quickly became one of Wisconsin's premier blues bands. Fronted by the soulful vocals and harmonica of Otis McLennon, the group built a devoted following with its mix of blues, soul, R&B, and original music. Although the band officially disbanded in 2013, they reunited for what many believed would be a final performance in 2023 before surprising fans with another reunion show this past spring.
Now, the band returns once again for a special hometown performance celebrating the music and musicians who have helped define Portage County's history.
Featuring:
• Otis McLennon – Vocals & Harmonica
• Jim Prideaux – Guitar
• Kenny Stevenson – Bass
• Pete Shank – Keyboards
• Tony Wagner – Drums
Saturday, October 24, 2026
Location: Old Plover Methodist Church at Heritage Park
Doors Open: 5:45 p.m.
Concert Begins: 6:30 p.m.
Tickets: $50
Only 100 tickets will be sold—80 seated and 20 standing-room tickets.
PCHS Member Early Access
Thursday, July 30 | 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
A private ticket link will be emailed to PCHS members for whom we have an email address at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 30. The link will provide exclusive access to purchase tickets before they go on sale to the general public.
General Public On Sale
Friday, July 31 at 10:00 a.m.
This special evening serves as the official closing celebration of Rhythms of the River and is expected to sell out quickly. If you've ever enjoyed Otis & The Alligators, or simply want to experience an unforgettable evening celebrating Portage County's musical heritage, this is an event you won't want to miss.
This special event is generously sponsored by Don & Tina Peters and David & Cindy Worth.
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Event venue
2700 Madison Ave, Plover, WI, United States, Wisconsin 54467
Tickets
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