Dennis DeYoung to Host Parnellis

LAS VEGAS – The Parnelli Board announces that Dennis DeYoung will be hosting the Parnelli Awards Nov. 20 in Orlando.

“Dennis is an inventive pioneer, and as Styx’s front man and founder, he was the creative mind behind their most theatrical and visually groundbreaking shows,” says Kevin Mitchell, Parnelli producer/writer. “He was deeply involved in bringing Styx’s concept albums to life in a theatrical setting. Throughout his career he’s put on intricate shows, including musical theater projects. Less known to his fans is that he possesses a hilarious offbeat sense of humor.

“He will make this our best Parnellis yet.”

DeYoung says he is excited to host, and is expected to talk about his early days. “I remember going out on the road with just three light trees – and none of them worked!” he laughs.

DeYoung was a founding member of Styx and wrote and sang many of the band’s mega hits, propelling the group’s million-selling record status. In 1983 the group mounted an ambitious stage presentation based on their rock opera Kilroy that included an 11-minute film, which opened the show.  It proved to be a glimpse into the future of live event entertainment and the fusion of multi-media components on the concert stage.

His solo career has included more hit songs and great concerts, and in 1993 he joined a touring revival of the musical Jesus Christ Superstar. He’s also reworked his music in symphonic settings, in visually creative settings. Last year he composed music for The Hutchback of Notre Dame, which premiered at the Bailiwick Repertory Theater in Chicago. He’s currently working on another musical, 101 Dalmatians set to open in Minneapolis later this fall (October).