In its diamond anniversary season starting this fall, the Golden Belt Community Concert Association will celebrate 75 years of providing high-quality, affordable musical entertainment to the Golden Belt community.
The association’s membership campaign for the new season is now under way and will continue through April 21. Opening in September, the season will feature six concerts selected by the association’s local board members with the goal of pleasing a variety of musical tastes. Concerts are performed at the Great Bend Municipal Auditorium.
The anniversary season will feature the following entertainers:
Collin Raye, Sept. 29 – One of the country hit makers of the 1990s, Collin Raye continues to crank out soulful, heartfelt music with honesty and richness. Nominated five times as country music Male Vocalist of the Year, he continues to share his passion, whether it’s delivering the unforgettable lines of his first No. 1 hit, “Love, Me,” or supporting organizations such as Boys Town and Special Olympics.
TAP – The Show, Oct. 15 – TAP is a powerhouse production, celebrating the artistry of tap dance from around the globe. TAP is fueled by a non-stop explosion of rhythmic energy. Wrapped in dazzling costumes and backed by a soaring orchestral score, this cast of eight award-winning dancers and two singers travels seamlessly over decades of styles from Broadway and big band to world music and pop/rock.
A Far Cry of Boston, Nov. 18 – One of Boston’s most promising classical music groups, A Far Cry Chamber Orchestra performs with the freedom and flexibility of a string quartet – and the power and beauty of an orchestra. This groundbreaking group of 12 to 13 string musicians transcends the traditional boundaries of classical music, experimenting with how it’s prepared, performed and experienced.
Masters of Motown, Feb. 5 – Saluting one of the greatest times in musical history, Masters of Motown re-create an entire Motor City experience. The 10 cast members, including three female vocalists, three male vocalists, guitar, bass, drums and keys, reproduce the style, sound and ultimate feel of Motown. They become Stevie Wonder, Four Tops, Diana Ross and the Supremes, and even the Jackson Five.
Jim Witter: Feelin’ Groovy, March 11 – This guitar trio stars the talented creator and performer Jim Witter and features Ian Tanner performing the classic hits of the 1960s’ most famous folk duo. From “The Sound of Silence” to “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” the music and lyrics of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel bring you back to a time of freedom, love and lava lamps.
Side Street Strutters, April 16 – Feel the searing rhythms of “Sing, Sing Sing,” savor the lush melody of “At Last,” and reminisce to “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore” as the Side Street Strutters present a new musical experience showcasing the vocal stylings of Meloney Collins. Their program, “Shiny Stockings,” brings together an extensive repertoire, colorful costumes, tap dancing, and 26 years of musicianship to create a performance that breathes new life into songs by the great songstresses.
Association volunteers are contacting present members for their membership renewals. Present members need to respond by April 14 for guaranteed renewal. They may renew online at www.goldenbeltcca.org if they wish. Anyone who is not a current member and wishes to purchase a membership may contact Norma Hammeke, 793-6759.
Membership dues are $45 for adults; $10 for full-time enrolled students; $100 for a family membership including two adults and all dependent children living in the same household; and $100 for a grandparent package for two adults and up to four minor grandchildren.
Admission to concerts is by season membership only. No single concert tickets are available. Memberships will be counted April 20-21 at GBCCA Headquarters located at the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, 1125 Williams. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 20, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 21. Anyone wishing to inquire about a membership may do so in person by going to the headquarters on one of those dates, or they may call Norma Hammeke at the phone number listed above. The drive ends April 21.