ENTERTAARITNMENT
Passing the Torch
From Nader to Mara
Tommy Mara has pledged to Deborah Nader that he will carry on
Richard Nader’s tradition to keep rock and roll music alive.
I n 1969, Richard Nader produced his first “Rock and Roll
Revival” concert at the Felt Forum in New York City’s
Madison Square Garden, where it had become the Garden’s
longest-running concert series. In 1994, Richard took the
show on the road, touring 80 cities, including Las Vegas, and
40 colleges. His concept was so popular that it became the subject
of the feature film Let the Good Times Roll, two 90-minute specials
on ABC-TV and a cable TV special on HBO. Radio stations and
record companies took notice and began playing and re-releasing
the music that was being called “Oldies” and “Classic Rock.”
Richard Nader Entertainment became legendary. Richard
presented shows featuring the songs people wanted to hear
again. When he became ill, he passed the torch to his wife
Deborah. Under her guidance, the company grew its fan base,
as it continued to bring incomparable entertainment to venues
all across the country. For 16 years, Deborah continued to build
this brand of entertainment, expanding the number of artists and
the venues that were served, which included cruise ships. After
devoting her life, energy and passion to these productions, she
has decided to leave the spotlight and relax. However, she knew
she couldn’t do so until she found a way to continue this legacy
88 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE
| MAY/JUNE 2016
of presenting the music of the past. Fortunately, she didn’t have
to look far. Tommy Mara, known as the “Pavarotti of Doo-Wop,”
had worked as an artist for Deborah for over a decade. During
that time, they grew to admire each other’s talents, so it became
clear to Deborah that Tommy was the perfect choice to carry on
the mission of Richard’s dream.
Tommy is well known by both his peers and fans for his
powerhouse vocals, as well as his humorous and humble
demeanor. When not performing, Tommy, his wife Victoria and
their daughter Jennifer produce theatrical events at their Show
Palace Dinner Theatre in Hudson, where they feature musicals
and cabaret performances. Given the family’s talents, the Maras
were obviously thrilled about the new venture. On March 24th,
Deborah passed her torch to them. Six years ago on that same
date, Tommy’s friend, mentor and idol, the late Johnny Maestro,
became the newest lead singer in “Rock and Roll Heaven.”
This makes this day of remembrance now even more memorable,
as the Mara Family became the custodians of the greatest music
ever heard. Nader-Mara Entertainment continues to produce
new concerts and carry forward the concept that Richard created
47 years ago “for the love of rock and roll.” 9