Queen tribute band rocks center

The Simply Queen tribute band performs for a soldout crowd Dec. 9 in the gym at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. The concert marked the start of the 2023-24 Bradenton Area Convention and Visitor Bureau concert series at the center, now in its fifth year. Islander Photos: Robyn Murrell

Charlie Cianchette and Larry Zahner grab a drink from the Sandbar Seafood & Spirits booth before Simply Queen took the stage Dec. 9 at the Center of Anna Maria Island in Anna Maria. The event launched the 2023-24 Bradenton Area Convention and Visitor Bureau concert series.

Wearing Queen T-shirts, Craig and Cindy Brown wait to have their tickets scanned Dec. 9 at the Center of Anna Maria Island, Anna Maria. The couple attended the first of the 2023-24 Bradenton Area Convention and Visitor Bureau concert series, featuring performances by opener Justin Layman and the Simply Queen tribute band.

Singer Rick Rock channels Freddy Mercury in the tribute band Simply Queen as the crowd gazes on Dec. 9 at the Center of Anna Maria Island. The Canadian-formed band has entertained audiences in Florida before but this event marks a first performance on Anna Maria Island.

Local entertainers Justin Layman and James Hershey warm up the audience Dec. 9 at the Center of Anna Maria Island in Anna Maria. The duo opened for a Queen tribute band, captivating the crowd with a mix of covers and an original song that left the audience cheering and eager for the headliners to take the stage.