PAWNEE ROCK — With the support of the city of Pawnee Rock and the Kansas State Historical Society, the Emerald Foundation is pleased to present, “Concert on the Rock: An Evening with Allison Boyt.”
The concert will benefit Violin for Vasculitis, the brainchild of Boyt, a professional violinist based in Northeast Ohio.
In 2005, at the age of 17, Allison was diagnosed with a rare auto-immune disorder called Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA or “Wegener’s Granulomatosis” at the time). The illness began with a simple cough and progressed rapidly to a pulmonary hemorrhage and kidney damage which nearly claimed her life.
Today, though she still faces some physical challenges, Allison’s illness is under control with the help of a team of world-class doctors at the Cleveland Clinic.
In May 2011, she set off on a journey of personal fulfillment and began her travels to each state in the U.S. to raise awareness of vascular disorders. With nationwide support from members of the Vasculitis Foundation, fellow vasculitis patients, and regional musicians, Allison’s Violin for Vasculitis project has seen 18 events in 12 states since it was established in May of 2011.
“When I saw Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s inspiring story on CNN about Allison, I knew we had to invite her to perform on the plains of Central Kansas,” said J. Basil Dannebohm, Chairman of the Emerald Foundation. “Attendees are in for a treat. Her story is inspiring and her world renowned talent will make for an outstanding concert.”
The concert will take place on Sunday, Sept. 6 at 7 p.m. at the Historic Pawnee Rock State Park located just north of the city of Pawnee Rock. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. The concert will be held below the lookout tower.
“The city of Pawnee Rock is honored to be welcoming Miss Boyt to our community,” said Pawnee Rock mayor, Linda McCowan. “We can’t think of a more perfect, picturesque venue here in Central Kansas than our rock. I’ve had people tell me this concept is like a scaled down version of Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado.”
Boyt, along with special guest musicians, will perform selections that will be familiar to the audience including show tunes, cowboy classics, and “Home on the Range.”
“I am thrilled to be given the opportunity to visit the beautiful natural landmark that is Pawnee Rock, and look forward to meeting the community as well as sharing my story and my music,” said Boyt.
The Emerald Foundation was launched in 2015 by J. Basil Dannebohm. The organization’s mission is to increase Parkinson’s Disease awareness through arts and entertainment. Boyt plans to return to Kansas to attend the organization’s black tie gala, The Emerald Ball, slated to take place in Hays, Kansas on November 21st.
Dannebohm, 33, was diagnosed with the young onset form of the neurodegenerative disease three years ago and has since been a leading advocate for Parkinson’s research, treatment and awareness.
“This event isn’t about Parkinson’s Disease. To be quite honest it’s not even about Vasculitis,” said Dannebohm. “This event is about a young woman who, in spite of her illness, makes every day count. She brings awareness to her cause and joy to those who hear her music. It’s only fitting that the foundation partner with Allison on this project.”
For more information about “Concert on the Rock ” please call 620.564.3188 or visit http://www.myemerald.org.