Article Contributed by Dennis McNally
Published on 2026-04-28
Photo: Courtesy of Courtney Scout
Dark Star Orchestra will return to the iconic Greek Theatre in Berkeley for a special two-night stand on July 31 and August 1, 2026, presented as The Music Never Stops: A Rex Foundation Benefit & Tribute to Bob Weir.
Building on the success of their 2024 debut at the venue, this highly anticipated run will bring together a powerful lineup of artists to celebrate the Grateful Dead’s extended musical family and enduring legacy.
Proceeds from the weekend will support the Rex Foundation, the nonprofit founded in 1983 by members of the Grateful Dead. For more than four decades, the foundation has funded grassroots organizations in the arts, education, environmental initiatives, and social justice, reflecting the band’s longstanding commitment to community and giving back.
Executive Director of the Rex Foundation, Cameron Sears, reflects on what makes this event significant: “Bringing together Bobby’s sense of community, which emanates from his music and history of giving back, is the best way I can think of to celebrate all that he and the Rex Foundation have accomplished. Our goal is to continue his vision well into the future!”
On Friday, July 31, Melvin Seals & JGB ft. Jazz Mafia Horns will join the bill as special guests. Melvin Seals performed alongside Garcia for more than 15 years, helping define the soulful, gospel-infused sound that became a hallmark of JGB.
The band will also be joined by the highly acclaimed Jazz Mafia Horns, featuring Mike Olmos on trumpet, Tommy Occhiuto on saxophone, and Adam Theis on trombone.
On Saturday, August 1, Dark Star Orchestra performs the 8/1/73 Roosevelt Stadium show in its entirety, highlighting the first time that the Grateful Dead ever played on Jerry Garcia’s birthday.
The night begins with an additional nod to the early ’70s, as fans will be treated to an opening set from Peter Rowan & Sam Grisman Project playing music from Old & In The Way.
Rowan served as a co-founding member of the seminal bluegrass collective Old & In The Way with Jerry Garcia. The Sam Grisman Project, led by the son of legendary mandolinist David Grisman, continues that tradition of friendship, collaboration, and musical exploration.
Taking place at the historic Greek Theatre, a hallmark of the Bay Area’s musical heritage and the backdrop for innumerable iconic Grateful Dead performances, this summer’s Rex Foundation benefit will bring two unforgettable nights of music, community, and connection.
THE MUSIC NEVER STOPS: A REX FOUNDATION BENEFIT & TRIBUTE TO BOB WEIR
2 Nights of Dark Star Orchestra
Friday, July 31
Dark Star Orchestra with Melvin Seals & JGB ft. Jazz Mafia Horns
Saturday, August 1 (Jerry Garcia’s Birthday)
Dark Star Orchestra performs 8/1/73 Roosevelt Stadium
with Peter Rowan & Sam Grisman Project playing music from Old & In The Way
An exclusive Artist Presale begins Wednesday, April 29 at 10 a.m. PT. Sign up for a code at darkstarorchestra.net.
Local Presale will take place Thursday, April 30 at 10 a.m. PT, followed by a Public On Sale on Friday, May 1 at 10 a.m. PT.
Additional show and ticketing information can be found at darkstarorchestra.net, apeconcerts.com, and rexfoundation.org.
