Tag Archive for: #mcgregorhall

McGregor Hall’s 2017-18 Season: Increased Ticket Sales & Exciting Performances

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By: Kelly Bondurant, Freelance Writer for Hire

The weather outside may be cold and frightful, but inside the McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center located on Breckenridge Street in downtown Henderson an exciting 2018 lineup is bringing the heat.

The 2017-18 season began last fall with country music legend Lorrie Morgan, and the Center has been on a roll with great performances and exciting opportunities since. Ticket sales have been increasing and the support from both the public and the business community has been encouraging.

According to Mark Hopper, Vice Chair of the Board for the Embassy Cultural Center Foundation and McGregor Hall, individual tickets sales as of June 1, 2017 through mid-January of 2018 are up just over 50% when compared to the same time period in 2016-2017. Similarly, ticket revenues are up over 65% in the same time period comparison. Hopper believes this increase in ticket sales and revenue shows that the county and region are buying into the vision of making downtown Henderson a destination again.

In addition to increased sales, McGregor Hall is proud to have entertained over 6,000 students in educational programming in the past year. The Center has also partnered with Vance County Schools to bring Arts Alive! to the community. Arts Alive!, a talent showcase for students and employees of Vance County Schools, features dancing, singing, acting and the playing of musical instruments. According to McGregor Hall’s online calendar of events, the next Arts Alive! showcase will be held Saturday, March 24.

In February, the Center has a blockbuster schedule, including hit-maker Al Stewart, best known for the chart-topping songs “Year of the Cat” and “Time Passages.” Stewart will be charming audiences on Saturday, Feb. 17 and Southern Gospel legend Karen Peck and New River will be performing on Friday, Feb. 23.

McGregor Hall will also present “Masters of Soul” on Saturday, March 3, a top-quality Motown revue show that will feature the classic songs that made the Motor City sound famous. Hotel California, the original tribute band to The Eagles will also be delighting music lovers on Friday, March 16 with classic hits such as “Life in the Fast Lane,” “Desperado” and many more.

Tickets are on sale starting this week for the second annual Music at McGregor classical and chamber series, a set of three intimate concerts where patrons are seated onstage close to a talented lineup of performers. This year, McGregor Hall welcomes home John Noel, a Fulbright scholar concert pianist who grew up in Henderson; Michael Stephenson, a world-class soprano saxophonist and a founding member of the New Century Saxophone Quartet who is also a Henderson native, and vocalists Tiffany and Terrance Brown, whose gifted singing has filled both Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall.

For patrons’ convenience, tickets for all performances are available for purchase in three ways: online via Etix, by calling the box office at (252) 598-0662 or in person at the box office. McGregor Hall recently announced a change and expansion to box office hours with the office now being open Monday through Friday, 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM, as well as one hour prior to show times. Ticket prices vary by show.

In addition to entertaining the community with performances, the Center’s hall and theater are also available for rental. Please contact the box office for current availability, facility specifications and rates.

McGregor Hall is a registered 501(c) 3 nonprofit and welcomes your tax-deductible contributions. According to Hopper, ticket sales account for less that 30% of operational revenue, and the Center receives no county or city funding. “Grassroots support keeps the dream alive, as over 50 business partners and numerous individuals generously showed with their contributions for the 2017-18 season,” said Hopper.

The gift of your time and effort are also welcomed. Volunteers to help with ushering, promotion, backstage assistance and other areas are needed and always appreciated. Please email info@mcgregorhall.org or call the box office to learn more about volunteer opportunities.

Additional information on scheduled performances, including dates and ticket prices are available at www.mcgregorhall.org.

(WIZS contracted with the writer of this article Kelly Bondurant, Freelance Writer for Hire for publication here and on the air.)

(This is a news article, not a paid advertisement.)

Daddy’s Boys: Broken Promises – Sat, Jan 13

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The following is a press release from McGregor Hall, not a paid advertisement.

New Play Coming To McGregor Hall Delves Into Issues Facing The African-American Family

‘Daddy’s Boys: Broken Promises’ Debuts On McGregor Hall Stage On MLK Jr. Weekend With Promise To Entertain & Educate Audience

HENDERSON, N.C. — “Come out and support issues facing the African-American family during Martin Luther King Jr. weekend,” declared Garrett Davis, the award-winning urban theatrical playwright who recently announced that his latest stage play, “Daddy’s Boys: Broken Promises,” is coming to McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center in Henderson, N.C., on Saturday, January 13, 2018.

Doors will open at 7 p.m. and the play starts at 8 p.m.

The play delves into the role of men as fathers, according to Davis, who said the issue of a fatherless home has become “a widespread problem, especially in the black community.” Davis, who is not one to shy away from hard issues, further explained that the play “takes audience members on an emotional journey that stresses the importance of fathering.”

During the production, the character Jessie known as Pops (Chris Ross) wasn’t always there for his three sons; however, when he’s faced with the last days of his life due to cancer, he comes to realize he needs to do more to be a better parent while he still has time. The three sons include Junior (Kenneth Pierce, Sr.), Punkin (Devonte Wells) and Charles (Dartez Wright).

“Each role will entertain you with humor, singing and an honest message that’s especially fit for young men, fathers and mothers,” Davis said, adding that “Daddy’s Boys” also educates men about prostate cancer.

According to the Prostate Health Education Network (PHEN), prostate cancer is the leading cause of cancer and second leading cause of cancer deaths among men in the United States. Furthermore, PHEN reports the African American prostate cancer incidence rate is 60 percent higher, and mortality rate 150 percent higher compared to any other racial or ethnic group.

According to Davis, one of the major contributors to the prostate cancer crisis is a lack of awareness and knowledge about the disease. “Knowledge is critical to surviving prostate cancer,” he advised, noting that black men need to know about the their risk level, early detection testing and treatment options. “‘Daddy’s Boys,’” he said, “aims to help educate African American men about prostate cancer.”

This is not the first time Davis has created a play with a mission to educate and advocate. His plays, “Mama’s Girls” and “Mama’s Girls 2” partnered with American Association of Retired Persons to launch the “Prepare to Care” project — a national outreach effort that raises the awareness of caregiving as well as with the American Diabetes Association.

Another production, “Forget Me Not” is more personal for Davis as it was written to provide closure for his real-life inability to cope with and care for his Grandma Goodness stricken with Alzheimer’s. His outreach, advocacy and awareness for Alzheimer’s led to successful partnerships with the US Against Alzheimer’s Network, Emory Hospital’s Brain Center and AstraZeneca that allows him to reach more people and make a difference in people’s lives. His partnership with Emory Hospital’s Brain Center successfully registered over 100 participants for clinical trials.

Davis explained, “I would hate for there to be a cure but it didn’t apply to us for lack of knowledge.” In addition, as U.S. Ambassador for the National Alzheimer’s Association, Davis learned more about the disease, and the regulatory laws as well as the platform to educate and further share the importance of the caregiver. He co-founded The African American Network Against Alzheimer’s with Honorary Co-Chairs former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. David Satcher, Rev. Al Sharpton, The Honorable Kay Coles James and Melody Barnes, formerly of the Obama Administration.

Davis’ brand of reality infotainment as he calls it, impact the way we learn, feel, think and live our best lives. For “Daddy’s Boys: Broken Promises,” he invites you to join others in the region for this life-changing message.

Tickets are on sale for $25 or $22 plus sales tax. Group and student rates are available.

Tickets can be purchased directly at the McGregor Hall Box office, which is open Monday through Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Box Office is located at 201 Breckenridge Street in downtown Henderson. The Box Office can also be reached by phone by calling (252) 598-0662. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.McGregorHall.org by using the secure and trusted purchasing platform, eTix. Online fees apply.

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Magician Lozoff at McGregor Hall Jan. 6

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— courtesy McGregor Hall

The New Year Kicks Off With Magic & Mystery As Celebrity Joshua Lozoff Brings His ‘Life Is Magic’ Act To McGregor Hall On Jan. 6, 2018

HENDERSON, N.C. (DECEMBER 28, 2017) — Prepare to have your mind blown on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018, as McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center in Henderson, N.C., kicks off the New Year with a magical performance theater goers will never forget — Joshua Lozoff: Life Is Magic.

Audience members will likely remember Lozoff from his days acting on the TV show “Cheers” or performing on the big screen in movies like “Clueless.” After his show at McGregor Hall, you’ll never forget Lozoff for his sleight-of-hand mastery.

Lozoff has been studying and sharing magic around the world for nearly 20 years. Today, Lozoff is regarded as one of the top magicians and recently had the honor of being one of only two magicians to receive an invitation to perform at the World’s Fair in Japan. He spent two weeks as a featured performer for the USA Pavilion, entertaining visitors from around the globe.

The award-winning documentary Metacarpus, about the power of the human hand, featured Joshua’s sleight-of-hand mastery alongside an orthopedic surgeon and sign language interpreter.

Joshua’s motto is “Life is Magic,” and he walks his talk by performing everywhere from penthouse suites to the slums of Guatemala City; sharing magic with Fortune 500 CEOs, folks on the street, and everyone in between. Joshua says, “the most beautiful thing about magic is how it appeals to everyone. I can go from a black-tie gala to a backyard barbeque, and everyone has a few moments in time which transcend our ordinary reality; moments of awe, of astonishment, and just a flat-out fun time.”

His performances combine his love for the art of magic, and his fascination with psychology as well as the powers of observation and influence. In one moment, he makes a drawing come to life just by pointing; in the next, he predicts an audience members choices even before they know it themself. “Audience members will be amazed by Joshua’s magic and mental demonstrations,” said Mark Hopper, Vice President of McGregor Hall’s Board of Directors. “We are honored to kick off the New Year at the hall with his caliber of magical, jaw-dropping entertainment.”

Tickets are on sale for $17 or $20 plus sales tax. Group and student rates are available.

Tickets can be purchased directly at the McGregor Hall Box office, which is open Monday through Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Box Office is located at 201 Breckenridge Street in downtown Henderson. The Box Office can also be reached by phone by calling (252) 598-0662. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.McGregorHall.org by using the secure and trusted purchasing platform, eTix. Online fees apply.

Joshua Lozoff: Life Is Magic is the first of several performances to be held in 2018. The lineup through April includes:
Daddy’s Boys: Broken Promises – January 13, 2018
Al Stewart and The Empty Pockets – February 17, 2018
Karen Peck & New River – February 23, 2018
Masters of Soul – March 3, 2018
Hotel California –  March 16, 2018
The Talleys with Tribute – April 7, 2018
Rod of God – April 14, 2018

For more information on these performances, visit www.McGregorHall.org.

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(McGregor Hall is an advertising client of WIZS.  This is a press release from McGregor Hall.)

Henderson’s McGregor Hall Transforms Into A Winter Wonderland

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— courtesy mcgregorhall.org

Meet Santa & His High-Kicking Friends On December 5th For A ‘Branson-Styled’ Holiday Showcase

HENDERSON, N.C. — Get in the spirit of the holidays on Tuesday, Dec. 5, as the McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center transforms into the North Pole to present CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND, a holiday spectacular.

On tour from its year-round performances at The King’s Castle Theater in Branson, Mo., CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND features a highly acclaimed song and dance troupe produced by Spirit Productions and David King of the mega-hit-musical Spirit of the Dance.

Doors will open for this family-family event at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m.

For this one-night-only show, the production will bring its full cast, sets and scenery to McGregor Hall’s stage. This includes 24 singers and dancers who will present more than 1,000 glittering costumes and more than a dozen holiday tunes.

Guest will enjoy more than a dozen holiday songs, including all the favorites from “White Christmas” and “Winter Wonderland” to “Silent Night” and “O Come All Ye Faithful.”

“This is the type of high-quality, grand-scale production that McGregor Hall was built for,” said Mark Hopper, Vice President of the McGregor Hall Board of Directors.

“CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND is quite simply one of the most delightful and enchanting shows coming to this region during the holidays,” Hopper added. “From the glittering costumes, a dazzling cast and the highest kicking chorus girls this side of the Mason-Dixon Line, your entire family can start Christmas in style as Santa and his merry helpers take you on an unforgettable nostalgic journey.”

Hopper also advised that seats are limited, suggesting that patrons purchase tickets in advance as the theater is expected to sell out.

Tickets are on sale for $35 or $30 plus sales tax. Group and student rates are available.

Tickets can be purchased directly at the McGregor Hall Box office, which is open Monday through Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Box Office is located at 201 Breckenridge Street in downtown Henderson. The Box Office can also be reached by phone by calling (252) 598-0662. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.McGregorHall.org by using the secure and trusted purchasing platform, eTix. Online fees apply.

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(McGregor Hall is an advertising client of WIZS.)

Gospel Songs of Hope

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— courtesy McGregor Hall

Grammy & Dove Award Winning Gospel Artist Jason Crabb To Fill McGregor Hall With Songs Of Hope During New-Album Tour Stop This Sunday

Grammy and Dove Award winning Gospel Artist Jason Crabb performs Sunday, November 12, 2017, at McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center in Henderson, N.C., while on a national tour following the release of his newest album “Whatever The Road.”

Crabb is the first act of the Joy! performance series package at McGregor Hall, which features a total of three shows with five well-known Christian artists and groups. Karen Peck with New River will perform on Feb. 23 and the Talleys with Tribute on April 7. With a regular ticket price of $75, the three-show Joy! package is reduced to $50.

Crabb’s performance on Sunday starts at 7 p.m. and the doors open at 6.

In recording his fifth solo album, Crabb said he poured himself into his songwriting and explored the things that matter most and the greatness of the God he serves. “You have to reach in deeper places to write music, and with songwriting you have to stay there for a little bit,” said Crabb, who co-wrote seven of the album’s 10 songs.

Working with producers Jason Ingram (who has worked with Chris Tomlin, Tenth Avenue North, Kari Jobe), and Paul Mabury (Lauren Daigle, One Sonic Society), Crabb takes a bold new step forward, not just lyrically but stylistically, and has finely honed a collection of anthems for the church that have sophisticated pop sensibilities as well as deep, substantive lyrics.

“I’ve never wanted to be pigeon-holed. I just wanted to make music,” he said. “I finally found that if you’re part of the creative process of the song, then it becomes you. With this record, I feel like it’s a little more of who I am than what I’ve been. It’s where I want to be and it’s wonderful.”

This Sunday, Crabb will unleash his passionate voice through songs that offer a strong current of hope, particularly with the song, “He Won’t Leave You There.” In the chorus, Crabb sings, “When the darkness overwhelms you and the fear just won’t subside, when your questions outweigh answers on those long and lonely nights, when you’ve got to keep on moving, He is with you in the valley of despair, and He won’t leave you there.”

Crabb explains, “I just want to encourage people and give them hope. The album is titled ‘Whatever The Road,’ and I want people to know that whichever direction or whatever road you’re headed down, God is going to walk with you.”

Crabb also doesn’t shy away from tackling tough topics such as the album’s first single, “He Knows What He’s Doing,” which was inspired by an 11-year-old fan named Lily. “Lily showed up at a concert and wanted to sing ‘Love is Stronger’ with me on stage,” Crabb recalls, smiling as he remembers their duet. “So this song is about her. She was battling cancer when we first met and she’s gone home to be with the Lord now.”

Another poignant moment on the album is the tender ballad, “Home,” which was written by Jason’s father, Gerald Crabb, a Dove Award-winning songwriter. “I had already recorded it and then grandma passed,” he says of losing his maternal grandmother, Billie Richardson, in early 2015. “When I recorded it, I didn’t know that that was going to be my song for her at that moment, but you know? I’m thankful. When I sing it, I just close my eyes and think of her in her little blue house, fixin’ everybody something to eat, but I’m not going to see her ever again like that, and that’s a big chapter closed.”

Though the album has a few heart-tugging moments, ‘Whatever The Road’ also includes the buoyant tune, “It’s a Good Life.” Stylistically, the song is reminiscent of Tom Petty’s earthy anthems, but lyrically, it’s strictly autobiographical. “If I Shout” is a vibrant celebration of how Jesus can change a life.

From inspiring ballads to jubilant, up-tempo tunes, the common denominator in every song is the passion and authenticity Crabb brings to every vocal performance. It’s a gift he’s cultivated from a young age. A native of tiny Beaver Dam, KY, Crabb rose to prominence singing with his siblings as the Crabb Family.

The talented, musically progressive family band broadened the scope of Southern Gospel music and became one of the most successful groups in the genre. When his siblings decided to pursue separate ministries, Jason released his first solo album in 2009, and it earned him his first Grammy the following year. Since then, he’s amassed numerous industry accolades, among them 21 Dove Awards, including wins in the “Artist,” “Male Vocalist,” and “Song of the Year” categories.

Crabb said he is looking forward to coming to Henderson to share his music with the area. “I love making music. I love singing. I love throwin’ down and having a blast on stage,” he said, “but what an honor it is to get to share my life in these songs.”

Tickets are on sale for $25 or $22 plus sales tax. Group and student rates are available. Tickets can be purchased directly at the McGregor Hall Box office, which is open Monday through Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Box Office is located at 201 Breckenridge Street in downtown Henderson. The Box Office can also be reached by phone by calling (252) 598-0662. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.McGregorHall.org by using the secure and trusted purchasing platform, eTix. Online fees apply.

Those purchasing the Joy! series before the Sunday night show can also add on the Christmas Wonderland show, scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 5, at McGregor Hall for a reduced price of $20.

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(McGregor Hall is an advertising client of WIZS.)

“Hairspray”

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Big, Local Cast & Crew Takes To The McGregor Hall Stage To Bring You The Rockin’ Broadway Hit ‘Hairspray’

This Tony-Winning Musical Is Based On The Popular 1988 Silver Screen Comedy That Was Adapted Again In The 2007 Hit Film

HENDERSON, N.C. (OCTOBER 23, 2017) — McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center will roll back the clock to the 1960s with a rocking production of the Broadway hit “Hairspray” for two weekends in a row.

A cast and crew of nearly 100 will present six performances of the musical: Friday and Saturday, Oct. 27-28, at 8 p.m. each evening; Sunday, Oct. 29, at 2 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, Nov. 3-4, at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, Nov. 5, at 2 p.m.

Set in Baltimore in 1962, “Hairspray” tells the story of a spunky and lovable plus-size teenage girl who earns a spot to dance on a local television show. After becoming an overnight celebrity and meeting a colorful array of characters, Tracy Turnblad helps to lead her city to social change.

“The winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Hairspray is full of laughter, romance, and music and dancing that never seems to stop,” said Mark Hopper, vice president on the Board of Directors for McGregor Hall, who is also the director of the show. The musical brings back the 1960s in nearly 20 songs that will offer melodies to please everyone as Hopper leads a live 15-piece orchestra.

McGregor Hall’s “Hairspray” brings together familiar faces from among the area’s strong theater talent and introduces new young actors and actresses to the big stage, Hopper added.

The show stars Sarah Young of Henderson as Tracy Turnblad, Jonathan O’Geary of Henderson as Edna Turnblad, Brian Westbrook of Durham as Corny Collins, Elsa Wansink of Chapel Hill as Penny Pingleton, and Karen-Leigh Allen of Raleigh as “Motormouth” Maybelle Stubbs.

“We’re fortunate to have so much talent in this region,” Hopper added. “We’ll have veterans of the Henderson Rec Players in the show, and we’re happy to be joined by some of the area’s best from other theater groups. To have so many new young people joining us for the first time is making for a meaningful experience.”

In addition to the six shows for McGregor audiences, a daytime performance of the musical will be staged for area schools on Thursday, Oct. 26.

“We’re appreciative of the support for this production we have received through a grant from the North Carolina Community Foundation,” Hopper said, “and we certainly are thankful for the many supporters who are helping us for the 2017-2018 season.”

Tickets are on sale for $25 or $20 plus sales tax. Group and student rates are available. Tickets can be purchased directly at the McGregor Hall Box office, which is open Monday through Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Box Office is located at 201 Breckenridge Street in downtown Henderson. The Box Office can also be reached by phone by calling (252) 598-0662. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.McGregorHall.org by using the secure and trusted purchasing platform, eTix. Online fees apply.

“Hairspray” is the second act of the McGregor Live! and Heritage! performance series packages. Upcoming shows in the McGregor Live! series are the Christmas Wonderland holiday spectacular, Dec. 5; world-renowned magician and mentalist Joshua Lozoff, Jan. 6; Al Stewart, known for the Top 10 hits “Year of the Cat” and “Time Passages,” and his band, the Empty Pockets, Feb. 17; and the original Eagles tribute band, Hotel California, on March 16.
The Heritage! series will feature a new stage play, “Daddy’s Boys,” by North Carolina African-American playwright Garrett Davis, Jan. 13; the Masters of Soul Motown Revue, March 3; and Rod of God with comedian Roderick Allison, April 14.

Individual tickets are available for each of the shows in the Live! and Heritage! series.

Discounted series package tickets are still on sale for McGregor Hall’s Joy! series, featuring three shows with five well-known Christian artists and groups: Dove- and Grammy-award winning Jason Crabb, Nov. 12; Karen Peck with New River, Feb. 23; and the Talleys with Tribute, April 7. With a regular ticket price of $75, the three-show Joy! package will be reduced to $50. Those purchasing the Joy! series can also add on the Christmas Wonderland show for a reduced price of $20.

For more information on this and other series packages, visit www.McGregorHall.org.

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— press release courtesy of McGregor Hall

(McGregor Hall is a paying advertising client of WIZS.)

Lorrie Morgan Coming to Henderson

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— courtesy McGregor Hall

Country Music Superstar Lorrie Morgan Celebrates Columbus Day Weekend With First-Ever Concert In Henderson, North Carolina

HENDERSON, N.C. (OCTOBER 2, 2017)—Country music superstar Lorrie Morgan lands her tour bus in Henderson, N.C., for the first time ever this Sunday, October 8, 2017, for a live concert at McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center. The doors open at 7 p.m. for the 8 p.m. show.

The Columbus Day weekend event is expected to draw in hundreds of Country music fans from across the region to downtown Henderson, according to Mark Hopper, vice president of the McGregor Hall Board of Directors. “Lorrie is one of the biggest superstars that we’ve had perform at McGregor Hall since opening last year, and we fully expect her Sunday night show to be one of the most exciting events happening in the region on this extended, holiday weekend.”

The sultry songstress is one of the best-selling female artists in Country music history, beginning her career by setting records as she released three consecutive platinum albums beginning with 1989’s “Leave The Light On” followed by “Something In Red,” then “Watch Me.” To date, Morgan has had 14 Top 10 Country music hit songs like “Five Minutes,” “Something In Red,” and “A Picture Of Me (Without You).”

Even years before those radio hits were released, Morgan made history at age 13 when she became one of the youngest artists to perform at The Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. Since then, Morgan has not slowed down.

In 1994 she was voted “Female Vocalist of the Year” by country music fans at TNN’s Music City News Awards. She would earn this honor again in 1996, 1997 and 1998. Over the past two decades, as musical trends came and went, Morgan has remained true to herself. Today, she has become the essence of Country music femininity and a renaissance woman of the genre, easily being recognized as one of Country music’s “most emotive female artists.”

In 2016, Morgan released her first new solo album in five years, “Letting Go…Slow,” which she says is a collection of her varied moods. “It’s a rainbow of emotions, from darkest heartache to bright, shiny humor,” said Morgan. “Where I am in my life right now, I’m not afraid to express what I feel, or what I don’t feel. I’ve been a daughter, a bride, a mother, a divorcee, a widow, a single mother, a breadwinner and, ultimately, a survivor. In many ways, I am a living, breathing Country song, and I know what I sing.“

Concertgoers can expect to hear an array of new and old hits as well as her rendition of Country classics such as her soprano lilt version of Patsy Cline’s “Strange.”

Tickets are on sale for $35 or $30 plus sales tax. Group and student rates are available. Tickets can be purchased directly at the McGregor Hall Box office, which is open Monday through Friday from 1:30pm to 5:30pm. The Box Office is located at 201 Breckenridge Street in downtown Henderson. The Box Office can also be reached by phone by calling (252) 598-0662. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.McGregorHall.org by using the secure and trusted purchasing platform, eTix. Online fees apply.

Morgan is the opening act of the McGregor Live! performance series package, where patrons have an opportunity to buy tickets for six shows at $125, a savings of $35. The packages also features “Hairspray,” performed and produced with local talent, on Oct. 27-29 and Nov. 3-5; the Christmas Wonderland holiday spectacular, Dec. 5; world-renowned magician and mentalist Joshua Lozoff, Jan. 6; Al Stewart, known for the Top 10 hits “Year of the Cat” and “Time Passages,” and his band, the Empty Pockets, Feb. 17; and the original Eagles tribute band, Hotel California, on March 16. For more information on this and other series packages, visit www.McGregorHall.org.

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(Press Release)

(McGregor Hall is a paying advertising client of WIZS.)

McGregor Hall Opens Season With Gulf Coast Band & Fundraiser For Hurricane Victims

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HENDERSON, N.C.—An award-winning eight-piece band that helped redefine the sound of “Gulf Coast Soul” opens the 2017-2018 season for the McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center in Henderson, N.C., on Thursday, Sept. 21, and half of the ticket sales to the show will be donated to help the victims of this summer’s hurricanes.

The Suffers hail from Houston, Texas, the site of catastrophic flooding near the end of August as Hurricane Harvey became the first major hurricane to strike the United States in more than a decade, bringing rainfall amounts of 40 inches and more to the region. The band still makes its home in Houston and its members and their families were impacted by the storm.

Seats for the 8 p.m. show will be $25 and $22, and McGregor Hall will give 50 percent of each ticket sold to the American Red Cross to help the victims of the recent storms.

“This simply felt like the right thing to do since we have such a popular band from the very center of the hurricane flooding coming to entertain us here in Henderson,” said Mark Hopper, vice president of the McGregor Hall board of directors. “Not only can we help the victims of the storm with our financial contributions, we have an opportunity to connect personally with victims of the Houston crisis in a unique way and show our concern.”

The Suffers are coming to Henderson on the heels of a Sept. 16 scheduled performance at the renown Monterey Jazz Festival in California, followed by a show at the Whale Rock Music Festival in Templeton, Calif.

Established in 2011, The Suffers soul band was organized by bassist Adam Castaneda and vocalist/keyboardist Pat Kelly, who brought on trumpet player Jon Durbin, trombonist Michael Razo, guitarist Kevin Bernier, percussionist Jose “Chapy” Luna, and drummer/vocalist Nick Zamora. Frontwoman Kam Franklin tops off the group with soaring vocals.

The group describes their music as a mix of musical styles and cultures found in Houston and around the Gulf Coast area — blues, soul, country, Cajun, hip hop, and Caribbean, according to a 2015 radio interview.

Brennan Carley of Spin Magazine said in a 2015 review: “The Suffers are a ten-piece soul collective that steeps their tracks in jazzy history with a modern twist. They’re the sort of neo-retro group you never knew music was so badly missing.”

The last three years have taken the band to new heights as they have played in more than 300 shows across North America. They have also appeared on “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” “The Daily Show” with Trevor Noah, and National Public Radio’s “Tiny Desk Concert” for Bob Boilen.

Their debut album, “The Suffers,” was selected by Billboard magazine as one of the “Top 10 Anticipated Rock & Alternative Albums” and Buzzfeed included the Suffers as one of the “25 New Artists You Need in Your Life in 2015.”

They recently finished their first international tour, spreading Gulf Coast Soul across the Caribbean, Western Europe and Australia.

While they have accepted invitations nationally for featured performances at festivals and events, the band has remained a local Houston favorite, accepting 23 Houston Press Music Awards over the past four years.

The show at McGregor is one of five shows scheduled for North Carolina venues in September.

The Suffers are the opening act of the McGregor Hall Heritage! series for 2017-2018. While individual tickets to the show are available, patrons still have an opportunity to buy a package of five shows for $100, representing $25 off regular ticket prices.

In addition to The Suffers, the Heritage! package will offer “Hairspray,” Oct. 27-29 and Nov. 3-5; a new stage play, “Daddy’s Boys,” by North Carolina African-American playwright Garrett Davis, Jan. 13; the Masters of Soul Motown Revue, March 3; and Rod of God with comedian Roderick Allison, April 14.

McGregor Hall is also selling season tickets to two other series, McGregor Live! and Joy!

McGregor Live! will feature six shows: Lorrie Morgan, with 14 Top 10 Country music hits, on Oct. 8; “Hairspray,” performed and produced with local talent, on Oct. 27-29 and Nov. 3-5; the Christmas Wonderland holiday spectacular, Dec. 5; world-renowned magician and mentalist Joshua Lozoff, Jan. 6; Al Stewart, known for the Top 10 hits “Year of the Cat” and “Time Passages,” and his band, the Empty Pockets, Feb. 17; and the original Eagles tribute band, Hotel California, March 16. The six-show package, with a regular price of $160 if purchased individually, is priced at $125.

Joy! will feature three shows featuring five well-known Christian artists and groups: Dove- and Grammy-award winning Jason Crabb, Nov. 12; Karen Peck with New River, Feb. 23; and the Talleys with Tribute, April 7. With a regular ticket price of $75, the three-show package will be reduced to $50. Those purchasing the Joy! series can also add on the Christmas Wonderland show for a reduced price of $20.

All three series will have the option for spreading payments over four quarterly installments.

Tickets to The Suffers show and the series packages can be purchased online at any time at www.McGregorHall.org, by calling the Box Office at (252) 598-0662, or by visiting the Box Office at 201 Breckenridge Street in Henderson. When purchasing tickets online, patrons should make sure they are purchasing tickets through McGregor’s secure and trusted purchasing platform, eTix. The Box Office is open on Tuesdays through Fridays from 1 to 5 p.m., and, starting Monday, Sept. 18, Box Office hours will expand to Mondays through Fridays from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. Patrons can save online fees when ordering directly with the Box Office staff.

Pinkston Street Elementary staff take home VCS Spirit Award

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Pinkston Street Elementary staff members won the “Spirit Award” for Vance County Schools at the district’s Convocation for all employees on August 17.

 

Staff members were recognized as recipients of the award after their fantastic job in showing great school spirit as they were introduced at the Convocation in McGregor Hall.

 

All staff members wore “Pinkston Street Army” t-shirts, completed in Army green with gold lettering, and joined in a rousing cheer to show they are ready to begin the 2017-2018 school year.

 

They were led by Principal Heddie Somerville and Assistant Principal Jacqueline Crosson. They are shown in the photo, from left, with Principal Carnetta Thomas of L.B. Yancey Elementary School.

 

Superintendent Anthony Jackson presented Somerville with the large “VCS Spirit Award” pencil that is given to the school displaying the best school spirit at the event.

 

Staff members at Eaton-Johnson Middle School and Henderson Middle School, finished second and third, respectively, in the judging for the “VCS Spirit Award.”

McGregor Hall Announces Acts, Introduces Series Packages for 2017-2018

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McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center is introducing discounted series packages with more than a dozen shows scheduled for the 2017-2018 season.

Series tickets go on sale Monday, July 31, with Grammy-winning Country Artist Lorrie Morgan, a Motown revue, a new stage play by a renown African-American playwright, four Christian acts, a Christmas “spectacular” and a local production of the Tony-winning musical “Hairspray” highlighting performances.

“This season, McGregor Hall gives patrons the option to purchase packages in order to save money and enjoy more entertaining experiences,” said John Wester, chairman of the center’s board of directors. “Our board has worked with the community to schedule monthly performances for every taste.”

Three series have been scheduled:

McGregor Live! will feature six shows: Lorrie Morgan, with 14 Top 10 Country music hits, on Oct. 8; “Hairspray,” performed and produced with local talent, on Oct. 27-29 and Nov. 3-5; the Christmas Wonderland holiday spectacular, Dec. 5; world-renowned magician and mentalist Joshua Lozoff, Jan. 6; Al Stewart, known for the Top 10 hits “Year of the Cat” and “Time Passages,” and his band, the Empty Pockets, Feb. 17; and the original Eagles tribute band, Hotel California, March 16. The six-show package, with a regular price of $160 if purchased individually, is priced at $125.

Heritage! will offer five shows: the Gulf Coast soul-band The Suffers, Sept. 21; “Hairspray,” Oct. 27-29 and Nov. 3-5; a new stage play, “Daddy’s Boys,” by North Carolina African-American playwright Garrett Davis, Jan. 13; the Masters of Soul Motown Revue, March 3; and Rod of God with comedian Roderick Allison, April 14. The five shows will be available for a package price of $100, which is $25 off regular ticket prices.

Joy! will feature three shows featuring five well-known Christian artists and groups: Dove- and Grammy-award winning Jason Crabb, Nov. 12; Karen Peck with New River, Feb. 23; and the Talleys with Tribute, April 7. With a regular ticket price of $75, the three-show package will be reduced to $50. Those purchasing the Joy! series can also add on the Christmas Wonderland show for a reduced price of $20.

All three series will have the option for spreading payments over four quarterly installments.

The series packages can be purchased online at any time at www.McGregorHall.org, by calling the Box Office at (252) 598-0662, or by visiting the Box Office at 201 Breckenridge Street in Henderson. When purchasing tickets online, patrons should make sure they are purchasing tickets through McGregor’s secure and trusted purchasing platform, eTix. The Box Office is open on Tuesdays through Fridays from 1 to 5 p.m. Patrons can save online fees when ordering directly with the Box Office staff.

McGregor Hall plans to bring back the popular Music at McGregor! series later in the season for patrons who enjoy classical and chamber music.

As additional entertainment options become available during the season, McGregor will be adding shows to the performance lineup. Individual tickets will be available for sale during the season, too.

Patrons will be given the opportunity to become “Friends of McGregor” with donations above and beyond the cost of series packages. “These gifts help McGregor Hall with such projects as educational outreach to area schools,” said Wester.

McGregor Hall volunteers will also be reaching out to area businesses and organizations for sponsorship opportunities through the center’s “Performances” magazine and other promotional initiatives.

“The strength of McGregor Hall is community support,” said Wester. “This support comes in many ways — attendance at events, donations, sponsorships and volunteering, among just a few. We are excited to offer these series and discounts to help more patrons be able to enjoy the great entertainment McGregor is bringing to our community.”

McGregor also offers facility rental options. The theater and the gallery are available for hosting special events for businesses, schools, civic groups, churches and other organizations.