Leonid & Friends Live at Midland Theatre, Newark | Paul Durbin
Back to Blog August 2026 | Local Events, Live Music

Leonid & Friends Live at the Midland Theatre

The internet's most celebrated tribute to Chicago and the classic rock and soul sound of the 1970s comes to Newark for one night only. Expect a full horn section, tight harmonies, and all the hits.

Leonid & Friends have taken the music world by storm with their uncannily accurate renditions of Chicago's greatest songs. What started as a one-off recording project in a Moscow studio has grown into an internationally touring phenomenon with millions of YouTube views and sold-out shows across the United States.

Event Details at a Glance

Date & Time

Thursday, September 24, 2026 at 7:00 PM

Venue

Midland Theatre
36 North Park Place, Newark, OH 43055

Tickets

$54 to $84 | VIP Meet & Greet package available for additional $50

Genre

Classic Rock, Brass Rock, Tribute

About the Band

Leonid & Friends were formed in 2014 by Russian musician Leonid Vorobyev, who set out to recreate the iconic sound of Chicago with painstaking precision. Their breakout YouTube cover of "25 or 6 to 4" garnered millions of views almost overnight, and they have been touring ever since. The band features a rotating lineup of world-class musicians including a full horn section, multiple keyboardists, and vocalists who nail every harmony.

Their setlist goes beyond Chicago to include covers of Earth, Wind & Fire, Steely Dan, Blood, Sweat & Tears, and other classic 1970s artists. Every show is a high-energy masterclass in musicianship that leaves audiences in disbelief that what they are hearing is a tribute band and not the original artists.

What to Expect

If you love the sound of a full horn section, soaring harmonies, and tight rhythm sections, this is your show. The Midland Theatre's excellent acoustics make it an ideal venue for a band like Leonid & Friends, where every note and harmony deserves to be heard clearly.

Expect to hear Chicago classics like "Saturday in the Park," "Feelin' Stronger Every Day," "Beginnings," "Colour My World," "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is," and of course "25 or 6 to 4." If they throw in some Steely Dan or Earth, Wind & Fire, consider it a bonus.

Plan Your Evening

The Midland Theatre is located in the heart of downtown Newark at 36 North Park Place. Parking is available in nearby lots and along city streets. Arrive early to enjoy dinner at one of the excellent restaurants within walking distance of the theatre. It is a weeknight show, but the 7:00 PM start time means you will be home at a reasonable hour.

Paul Durbin

Paul Durbin

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