Their one-night concert event boosts Band of Angels; Why this duo turned up the volume for fifth year on stage

Music connects community in ways other mediums cannot, said Amber Giangregorio.

“Life can be so serious sometimes, so it’s good to take a step back and have some fun. On Stage with SIS is all about having fun, while also supporting a good cause. It’s a time for our clients and community to get to know who we really are; and I feel like when you come to this event, you can clearly see our ‘why,’ which is connecting community,” shared Giangregorio, who co-founded Stellar Image Studios (SIS) with her older sister, Jasmine Nastasi. 

The fifth annual On Stage with SIS is set to be an unforgettable night of music and philanthropy, Giangregorio said. Four artists specializing in genres from soulful ballads to high-energy rock will be showcased at J. Rieger’s Electric Park 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday, June 29. Tickets to On Stage with SIS grant admission to the show, as well as one free drink at J. Rieger. 

The musicians set to perform are: Lava Dreams, Carlton Rashad, Shelby and Brian Savoy.

Click here to purchase tickets to On Stage with SIS.

On Stage with SIS has evolved since Giangregorio and her sister’s initial vision for the event in 2019, she noted. 

“It started out as a way for us to give musicians a platform to perform while providing them with free video and photos,” Giangregorio explained. “… As it has evolved, we started including nonprofits. The first two concerts we hosted were free events, but now we started ticketing the event so that we can add that element of giving back to our community.”

This year’s On Stage with SIS nonprofit partner is Band of Angels — an organization that connects students in need to music by providing them with musical instruments and education.

“It was such a natural partnership,” Giangregorio said. “They are helping young musicians, children, and we’re helping adults with their careers. This year’s On Stage with SIS is also really exciting in that we are adding a mentorship element to the event.” 

Lava Dreams, Carlton Rashad and Shelby each paired up with a Band of Angels student and will be performing a song with them during the event. 

“It’s been really cool to see these seasoned musicians supporting the students; they welcomed the idea so much,” Giangregorio said. “… When we were filming our promo video, I could just see the kids’ eyes light up when they got to share their passion.” 

Amber Giangregorio films a performance during the 2022 On Stage With SIS event at J. Rieger; photo courtesy of Stellar Image Studios

Proceeds from On Stage with SIS will go to support Band of Angels’ mission. The event will also promote Band of Angels’ annual fundraiser, Art That Blows. The fundraiser is set to take place Friday, July 14 at The Abbot KC.

“It is the event of the year,” Giangregorio noted. “They have a big art auction of art that is made from repurposed or broken instruments. They have people in the community called ‘Rock Stars’ who help raise money for the event, so I am a Rock Star this year, as well as Brian Savoy. Attending On Stage with SIS is not only an opportunity to listen to these incredible artists, but you’ll also be making a difference in the lives of these children in Kansas City.”

Click here to check out Band of Angels.

On Stage with SIS is truly a celebration of Kansas City’s musical ecosystem, Giangregorio said. Born and raised in Kansas City, Carlton Rashad is set to perform after being awarded Kansas City People’s Choice Male Vocalist of the Year in 2021.

Lava Dreams performs during the 2022 On Stage With SIS event at J. Rieger; photo courtesy of Stellar Image Studios

Lava Dreams, who also works at SIS as their lead camera operator and video editor, has performed at On Stage with SIS since 2021. 

“It’s been really cool to watch her music career evolve over the years,” Giangregorio shared. “When she was at Black Box [in 2021], she was a solo performer, but now she has this full band. Seeing her level up and work so hard has been really amazing.”

Click here to read more about Lava Dreams.

For Shelby, Giangregorio was drawn to her sound — literally.

“I was just in my apartment, and I had my patio door open when I heard this beautiful voice coming through the window,” Giangregorio recalled. “I went out of my apartment and was just following her voice through the streets of Kansas City and found where she was performing. She is a singer in the Lost Wax band, which performed throughout the NFL Draft.” 

The night of music will close out with dance tunes from the DJ, Brian Savoy. 

The event would not be possible without the generosity of sponsors, Giangregorio acknowledged. The sponsors for On Stage with SIS include: Driving Pursuits KC, Hello Big Idea, Community America, BMG Advisors and Turner Construction.