When talking about the FLASH! in the Pans Steel Drum Band, listeners could echo what teens used to say on the old “American Band Stand”: It’s got a great beat and you can dance to it! Add to that the captivating sounds of island music, and you have a recipe for a lively, entertaining concert outdoors at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 17. 

The talented and enthusiastic members of the steel-drum ensemble have fun, and it’s fun that’s contagious. Anyone who’s moved to get up and dance or join a conga line is welcome to do just that when the band returns to the Gardens by popular demand.

Audience members are invited to bring their own lawn chairs or spread out a blanket on the Great Lawn for the concert. Island refreshments, along with a cash bar, will be available. 

Based in Blue Hill and formed in 1990, FLASH! is one of the largest community steel bands in the United States. The band's members find as much joy in playing the steel drum (known as pan) as they do in sharing their music with receptive audiences of all ages, from infants to centenarians. When not playing, the musicians are happy to talk with people about their music and instruments and allow them to try their hands on the drums.

This concert is sponsored by Jorgensen Landscaping in Bath. 

Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for nonmembers. To sign up, call 633-4333, ext. 101, visit www.MaineGardens.org, or stop by the Visitor Center at the Botanical Gardens, off Barters Island Road in Boothbay.