LEWISTON — The Nutopians, an award-winning, eight-piece ensemble that celebrates the genius and artistry of John Lennon, will perform at a New Year's Eve celebration at the Franco-American Heritage Center.

The group, created and led by Rex Fowler of Aztec Two-Step and Tom Dean of Devonsquare, is known for its song narratives, as well as its lead singing and three-part harmonies.

The Nutopians play a variety of instruments: acoustic six- and 12-string, electric and bass guitars, cello, violin, mandola, accordion, piano, chromatic harmonica and light percussion. The band’s arrangements feature a series of single and mini-medleys.

The ensemble's "Imagined" CD won Independent Music Award's Vox Pop 2010 Tribute Album of the Year for interpretations of John Lennon’s Beatles and solo compositions. It's newest CD, "Lennon Re-Imagined," is slated for release in early 2013.

Fowler and Dean, prominent folk/rock artists in the 1970s, went on to tour worldwide, be reviewed in Rolling Stone, perform on David Letterman and share stages with such musical luminaries as Bruce Springsteen, Bonnie Raitt, Jackson Browne and The Band. Along with their passion for interpreting Lennon's songs, they continue to express themselves as respected songwriters, performers and recording artists.

Other Nutopians members are Jordan Jancz, Alana MacDonald, Teg Glendon, Robby Coffin, Gary Schreiner and Maggie Coffin.

The concert will be from 9 to about 10:30 p.m., followed by a DJ dance party and champagne toast at midnight. There will be a social hour at 6 p.m., followed by dinner prepared by Franco chef Edmond Gay. Tickets are $60 for dinner, concert and after-party; $25 for concert only. For tickets, call 689-2000 or visit www.francocenter.org. The Franco Center is at 46 Cedar St.