DADA, the Durham Association for Downtown Arts, is putting on its first free outdoor Durham Band Showcase (DSB) at the downtown Durham Central Park this Saturday. With the private sector getting involved in redeveloping the park both as a recreation area and a site for community arts events, DADA, also a nonprofit organization, is hoping the all-day concert will raise awareness of the role the arts play in revitalizing downtown Durham. Says DADA Executive Director Robert Stromberg: “DADA believes that the key to economic development in a depressed area like downtown Durham is first to create a diverse viable local arts scene.” Both DADA and Durham Central Park (also the name of the nonprofit involved in raising funds for the park’s rejuvenation) hope the showcase will give the urban park a public image boost as well as getting people used to the idea of attending downtown arts-related events. The eclectic lineup features top Durham bands and artists in genres ranging from indie rock, lounge pop, rap and old-time. Vendors will be on hand with food and drink; there’ll be dance performances, art installations and a kids’ tent. Other area nonprofits will set up information booths and the Durham People’s Alliance will be conducting a voter registration drive during the fest. Co-sponsored by Durham Central Park and Durham Parks and Rec, the event takes place this Saturday, Aug. 31, from noon to midnight. Call 667-1546 or visit www.durhamdada.org for details. –Angie Carlson