Rascals cuts loose

April Goddard

After the last year that we have all had, many of us are eager to get back into the social scene and weekend outings that we have missed so much. Right here in Worcester, Rascals, (in a space formerly occupied by the Dance Ranch) makes good on their slogan “A good time place for good time people”. It has been a popular line dancing spot since the early 90’s, and has since expanded by diversifying entertainment through new ownership. It’s website raves that “it is the hottest new live venue to see your favorite local bands every Saturday night”, and is additionally the only country line dancing bar in Worcester. The facility is over 8,500 square feet and boasts a 3,000 square foot dance floor. And very often, you can find the owners Frank Pupillo and Chris Goodney greeting customers at the door.

With years of experience in the entertainment and restaurant industries, it’s no wonder Rascals is a huge local hit. Goodney, local comedian and DJ also plays host to many of the bar’s line dancing nights. Pupillo, a local musician and front to the tribute band Shot of Poison is also a promoter of local music and entertainment booking at Rascals. The pair acquired the space in summer of 2019 and were open for business the following November. Through their innovation and experience, they built upon the concept of the original country line dancing bar and created a live music venue and entertainment space. They still maintain the original country nights.

Unlike your typical bar, Rascals offers a wide range of entertainment. They have live music on Saturdays, accompanied by National touring music on weekdays and weekends alike. They have nationally recognized comedians, open mic Sundays, and keeping with the classic space, line dancing instruction three nights a week with country music nights Fridays. Along with local and national music entertainment, they are also the home of the Ladies for the Night Drag show. An additional variety of shows and social events are coming soon, from Singles Meet Sundays, Going show, and Comedy Open Mic, along with additional variety shows. The spacious venue has an overall capacity of 540 people, and in addition to scheduled entertainment is a perfect place to host an event.

Some of Rascals most popular events have totally sold out. Comedian Bob Marley sold out the last 6 shows at the venue, along with several sold out Drag shows and tribute bands, which bring in large crowds of hundreds.

An extensive entertainment schedule can be found on their website. If you are looking for “A good time place for good time people” Rascals is your spot for go-to local entertainment. To find out more, head over to their website at Rascalsworcester.com.