It should be a glorious day for a picnic at Villa Mira Monte on Saturday, with lively entertainment starting at 5:30 p.m.
“The Ballad of Johnny Law” sounds a bit like the Morgan Hill of years past. Set in wartime 1940s, a small town is overwhelmed by the modern world and the busy highway that bisects it. The musical, written and performed by Morgan Hill native Kim Moreno, will be performed at the Morgan Hill Historical Society’s Summer Picnic on Saturday. The picnic starts at 4 p.m.
“Johnny Law” is the fictionalized story of John Moreno, Kim Moreno’s father, who joined the Morgan Hill police force in 1945 and served as chief for 25 years. (John Moreno died in 2003.) The musical, according to Moreno, includes suspense, romance, magic, clashing subcultures and community empowerment. It also has a variety of musical styles: jazz, blues, salsa, bluegrass and even a little early rock ‘n roll.
Performing with Moreno will be Pat and Patty Curtis of “Blue Dog” band and Dorothy Martin, “The Music Lady.”
The 1950s police cruiser and other items honoring John Moreno will be on display, courtesy of the police department.
The event is free and families are encouraged to attend. Bring a picnic or order a box supper from cateredbydiana.com by Wednesday. Homemade lemonade and ice cream will be available, along with beer and wine. Villa Mira Monte is located at 17860 Monterey Road. The picnic is presented by the Morgan Hill Historical Society. Event sponsor is Morgan Hill Cigar and Wine Shop.
Details: mhHistoricalSociety.com, johnnylawmusical.com or 408-779-5755.
