Tag Archive for: #mcgregorhallnews

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.

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.

75-Member Cast Announced for “The Wizard of Oz”

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The Henderson Rec Players community theater organization has cast 75 local performers to present “The Wizard of Oz” at McGregor Performing Arts Center in July, according to Jo Ellen Nowell, director, and Mark Hopper, musical director.

Leading the cast will be 15-year-old Becky Hunt of Henderson as Dorothy, Andy Dickerson of Henderson as the Scarecrow, Justin Walker of Henderson as the Tin Man, and Dan Cerullo of Stem as the Cowardly Lion.

Accompanying the show will be a 15-piece orchestra conducted by Mark Hopper.

Performances are on July 7, 8 and 15 at 8 p.m. and on July 9 and 16 at 2 p.m.

Advance tickets and reserved seating are available through McGregor Hall, which offers box office hours Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 5 p.m. Also, tickets may be purchased online by visiting www.mcgregorhall.org. Tickets are priced at $15 each for all ages. For more information about tickets, contact Crystal Allen at the Aycock Recreation Center at 252-431-6091.

The Henderson Rec Players organization was founded in 1972 and is sponsored by the Henderson-Vance Parks and Recreation Department.

 

Cast – “The Wizard of Oz”

(In Order of Appearance)

 

Kansas

Dorothy Gale………………………………………………………. Becky Hunt

Toto………………………………………………………………. Harvey Hopper

Auntie Em……………………………………………………… Micheale Collie

Uncle Henry………………………………………………. Jonathan O’Geary

Hunk…………………………………………………………….. Andy Dickerson

Hickory…………………………………………………………….. Justin Walker

Zeke……………………………………………………………………. Dan Cerullo

Miss Gulch…………………………………………………………. Mary Pearce

Professor Marvel………………………………………………….. Bob Clarke

 

Munchkinland

Glinda, Witch of the North………………………………… Amber Jones

School Teachers…………………………. Jeanie James, Julia Tillotson

Mayor………………………………………………………………….. Noah Bean

Barrister……………………………………………………………….. Will White

City Father……………………………………………………… Wesley Carroll

Coroner………………………………………………………………… Katie Hunt

Munchkins………………………………………. Kendell Allen, Levi Bean,

Merritt Cloninger, Emerson Currin, Saylor Gray,

Grayson Greenway, Cailee Hansen, Lilly Hicks,

Eva Hopper, Lane Jackson, Elizabeth Joyner,

David Pendergrass, Kylie Stainback, Ella Stewardson,

Marie Scott White, Barbara Williams, Cecilia Williams

Wicked West of the West…………………………………… Mary Pearce

 

Along the Yellow Brick Road

Scarecrow…………………………………………………….. Andy Dickerson

Crows…………………………………………… Allison Hines, Lynn Patiky,

Hollie Powell, Sarah Stallsmith

Trees……………………………………………….. Jada Lewis, Erin Shelton,

Sarah Wheeler, Whitney Wicker

Tin Man……………………………………………………………. Justin Walker

Cowardly Lion……………………………………………………… Dan Cerullo

Poppies……………………………. Merritt Cloninger, Emerson Currin,

Eva Hopper, Elizabeth Joyner, Cecilia Williams

Snowflakes………………………………….. Saylor Gray, Cailee Hansen,

Lilly Hicks, Kylie Stainback, Ella Stewardson,

Marie Scott White, Barbara Williams

 

Emerald City

Guard……………………………………………………………… Clay Davidson

Manicurists………………………….. Trinity Ayscue, Samantha Hines,

Joyce Short, Natalie Stone

Beauticians…………………………….. Elly Boldizar, Angelica Bridges,

Mimi Johnston, Faith Orr

Straw Stuffers…………………………… Celia Boldizar, Emilee Boone,

Charity Norwood, Barbara Williams

Polishers…………………………………………. Blakely Bates, Ben Hicks,

Coleman Hines, Trace Kirby,

Chandler Stainback, Avery Thomas

Tap Dancers………………………………. Emily Hunt, Kathleen James,

Lexi Simmons, Sarah Young

Townspeople………………………… Gracie Barney, Savanna Carroll,

Kendall Collier, Cameron Eaton,

Rose Hilliard, Skylar McGhee, Paige Meadows

Wizard of Oz………………………………………………………… Bob Clarke

 

Witch’s Castle

General of the Winkies……………………………………. Camden Jones

Winkies………………….. Blakely Bates, Ben Hicks, Coleman Hines,

Trace Kirby, Chandler Stainback, Avery Thomas

Nikko……………………………………………………………. Jackson Hopper

Flying Monkeys……………………. Christian Bean, Joshua McGhee,

David Pendergrass, Bridger Stewardson

“That Long Tobacco Road” Coming to McGregor Hall

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HENDERSON, N.C. (June 2, 2017) — Written and directed by regional Playwright Charley-John Smith, That Long Tobacco Road is making its way back to the stage after first being presented by the Louisburg (N.C.) College Players in 2001. Performed by local actors from Vance, Granville, Franklin and Wake counties, the 2017 musical will debut on the stage of McGregor Hall Performing Arts and Learning Center in downtown Henderson, N.C., on June 16th and 17th at 8 p.m. each evening.

As the former Artistic Director of Theatre at Louisburg College, a position he held for 32 years, Smith saw great success with the musical during the start of the millennium. Playing to sold out audiences in Louisburg, the show became a regional success and was performed at the Fletcher Opera Theatre in Raleigh, N.C., for a two-week run.

“Warming the hearts and souls of audiences,, the musical offers comedy, romance and music to create a nostalgic trip back to the 1940s and a different way of life,” said Mark Hopper of McGregor Hall. “The characters Smith has created bring laughter and tears as the show takes us back to life on the farm.”

“That Long Tobacco Road is the story of a North Carolina family of tobacco farmers,” Smith explained. “The Sturdivants are struggling to harvest their crops in the 1940s.. Beset by natural disasters, human error and a vindictive opponent, the family finds itself in danger of losing their farm. It is a timeless story that portrays the challenges of farming life, and a story that most of us from the Carolinas and Virginias can relate to in some manner.”

Music for the performance offers a soulful mix of Gospel, Country and Bluegrass, Smith added. “Local musician and Musical Director Wayne Kinton wrote most of the music for the show and his award-winning band GrassStreet from Vance County will perform for the show.”

Tickets are on sale at www.McGregorHall.org, by calling (252) 598-0662 or by visiting the Box Office at 201 Breckenridge Street in Henderson, N.C. For more information, contact McGregor Hall’s Mark Hopper at (252) 598-0662 or email him at markhopper@mcgregorhall.org.

NOTE: For more information, contact McGregor Hall’s Mark Hopper at (252) 598-0662 or email him at markhopper@mcgregorhall.org.  For interviews with Charley-John Smith, the actors and to arrange a preview exclusive during a rehearsal, contact Smith at charley-john@nc.rr.com.

Matt Nowell named Interim Manager of McGregor Hall

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The McGregor Hall Board of Directors has named Matt Nowell as the interim manager of the performing arts center.  Mr. Nowell, serving as Technical Director since 2015, will assume the position recently vacated by Tommy Deadwyler, who has decided to pursue new projects outside the local area.   Mr. Deadwyler served as executive director of the hall since its opening in October 2015.

“The board is pleased to have someone of Mr. Nowell’s experience step into this leadership role,” said John Wester, chairman of the board of directors. “He has been with us since the beginning, working with the artists Mr. Deadwyler brought to our stage and the organizations that have used the facility.  We wish the best for Mr. Deadwyler in his new endeavors,” Mr. Wester said.

The board of directors is preparing the 2017-2018 season.  “Opening and operating a facility such as McGregor Hall requires many different elements that work together. McGregor Hall has an engaged board of directors and a tremendously loyal group of volunteers and patrons,” Mr. Wester continued. “I have no doubt these committed groups will continue to be important elements that make us successful.”

John Wester
Chairman, McGregor Hall Board of Directors

The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra Comes to McGregor Hall

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HENDERSON, N.C. (April 27, 2017)—On May 5th, The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra, a 17-piece Big Band from Savannah starring Jeremy Davis Clay Johnson, will perform live on the stage of McGregor Hall Performing Arts & Learning Center in Henderson, N.C.

“All across America, audiences have fallen in love with these two sophisticated Southern gentleman and the high-energy show that is Davis & Johnson Present the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra,” said Tommy Deadwyler, Executive Director of McGregor Hall Performing Arts and Learning Center. “We are honored that they are making a stop here in North Carolina.”

Along with the greatest songs, the best original arrangements and phenomenal musicianship, these two bring their rich friendship and charm to the stage. Fashioned in the style and swagger of the legendary entertainers lead by Frank Sinatra, Davis and Johnson are putting their own stamp on the Great American songbook, graced with a touch of Motown, Ray Charles, Johnny Cash, Elvis and more, offering a freshness and relevance that speaks to every soul.

The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra performs at McGregor Hall Performing Arts and Learning Center on Friday, May 5th at 8 p.m. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are on sale at www.McGregorHall.org, by calling (252) 598-0662 or by visiting the Box Office at 201 Breckenridge Street in Henderson, N.C.

Yesterday and Today Coming to McGregor Hall

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Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the 1960s and the most important music of a generation as the British invasion of The Beatles returns. Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience is a foot-stomping, sing-along sensational night of your favorite Beatles songs.

Billy McGuigan, his brothers and his band bring back songs that are woven into the tapestry of our lives, with a set list compiled according to the audience’s requests and performed with no wigs, no faked accents, no pretense, just the wonderful music exactly as it was recorded. Visit www.McGregorHall.org to learn more.

The Raleigh Flute Choir Comes to McGregor Hall This Friday Night

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Join us for an evening of fun fluting like you’ve never heard as The Raleigh Flute Choir, a chamber ensemble of nine professional flutists from central North Carolina, perform live in concert.

The Raleigh Flute Choir was founded in 1986 and has distinguished itself as one of the nation’s leading flute choirs. Utilizing all members of the flute family, from the tiny piccolo to the eight-foot contrabass flute, the ensemble seeks to entertain and educate by performing transcriptions of well-known classical works, delightful arrangements of familiar folk songs, and original compositions written particularly for this unique instrumental ensemble. Appearing in a variety of venues, past highlights include concerts at Biltmore Estate, Colonial Williamsburg, Piccolo Spoleto, and The White House, as well as annual performances at the North Carolina Museum of Art and Duke Chapel.

This concert is sponsored by the Henderson Community Concert Association and Document Systems Inc. Ticket packages are available for those who would like to enjoy this performance along with two others in the Music at McGregor Chamber and Classical series: WindCircle Quintent on January 13th and Dmitri Shteinberg in Piano Recital of February 17th. CLICK HERE for more information on the series.

GrassStreet Opens For The HillBenders’ During April 1st Concert At McGregor Hall

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HENDERSON, N.C. (March 16, 2017)— On April 1st, Vance County’s Bluegrass band GrassStreet will perform live on the stage of McGregor Hall Performing Arts & Learning Center as they open for The HillBenders. GrassStreet is comprised of Wayne Kinton on guitar, David Kinton on upright bass and mandolin, Ricky Hargis on banjo and Tab Kearns on dobro.

Since 2003, GrassStreet has performed across the state and region, offering a high-energy mix of original material and Bluegrass standards. The band is noted for their unique ability to cover musical styles ranging from Rock to Blues to Jazz, which sets them apart from the average Bluegrass band.

GrassStreet recently released the album “Time Moves On,” which was produced by Steve Dilling and recorded at Reminiscence Recording Studio in Henderson, N.C. Thirteen of the 14 tracks on “Time Moves On” are original compositions by the four band members collectively, drawing from personal family situations such as depicted in the tunes “Cotton Miller’s Lament,” “Time Moves On” and “Going to Caroline.” Additional favorites include the Civil War era tune “Warren County Clay,” several songs of faith such as “Look Beyond Life’s Storms,” and a song about a late night car race, “Street Fight.”

“We are pleased to have GrassStreet perform on the McGregor Hall stage for the first time,” said Tommy Deadwyler, Executive Director of McGregor Hall Performing Arts and Learning Center. “Not only is it an honor to support these local musicians, but the band’s level of talent is stupendous and concert-goers will be in awe by the energy and excitement that they bring.”

Equally talented, according to Deadwyler, are The HillBenders, which will headline the April 1st concert. Also a Bluegrass band, The HillBenders will perform their unique version of songs from The Who’s “Tommy” album, one of the biggest “Rock operas” of all time.

Originally composed by guitarist Pete Townshend, “Tommy” by The Who tells the story about a deaf, dumb and blind boy, including his experiences with life and the relationship with his family. The original album has sold 20 million copies and has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame for “historical, artistic and significant value.”

With a stylish mix of musicianship and rock-star vocals, The HillBenders will bring Pete Townshend’s original vision to life in a new and exciting way during the concert at McGregor Hall Performing Arts and Learning Center on April 1st at 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale at www.McGregorHall.org, by calling (252) 598-0662 or by visiting the Box Office at 201 Breckenridge Street in Henderson, N.C. For more information, contact McGregor Hall’s Executive Director Tommy Deadwyler at (252) 598-0662 or email him at tommydeadwyler@mcgregorhall.org.

Rhythmic Circus’ To Test Stage Of McGregor Hall On March 11

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HENDERSON, N.C. (February 24, 2017)—Since opening one year ago, the stage at McGregor Hall Performing Arts & Learning Center in Henderson, N.C., has opened its curtains to a broad array of acts from Grammy-winning recording artist to local community plays. But, on March 11th at 8:00 p.m., the theater will host Feet Don’t Fail Me Now!, a high-energy showcase that includes some of the countries fastest tap dancers.

Will the stage floor, which was built above a special rubber padding in order to support high-impacts, be able to handle this stomping? Folks of all ages are encouraged to find out for themselves as Rhythmic Circus puts the stage floor of McGregor Hall to the test.

Rhythmic Circus is made up of a seven-piece funk band, a beatboxer, and four incredibly talented tap dancers, according to McGregor Hall Executive Director Tommy Deadwyler. “Their show, Feet Don’t Fail Me Now!, is a joyous parade of genre-hopping music and hard-hitting percussive dance. With catchy original songs and bright, colorful costumes, Feet Don’t Fail Me Now! will have the whole family tapping their toes.” Deadwyler noted that the performance is especially entertaining for all ages and relevant for dance enthusiasts.

Those aspiring dancers throughout the region will have an opportunity to meet the performers of Rhythmic Circus in person, according to Deadwyler, who is offering special student discounts with “meet and greet” passes as well as group discounts to dance studios and other assemblies of 10 or more.  “This is a special occasion for local dance enthusiasts in our area to network with professional, touring dancers and learn more about their talents and their craft.”

Rhythmic Circus will perform Feet Don’t Fail Me Now! at McGregor Hall Performing Arts and Learning Center on March 11th at 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale at www.McGregorHall.org, by calling (252) 598-0662 or by visiting the Box Office at 201 Breckenridge Street in Henderson, N.C. For more information, including group rates and student discounts, contact McGregor Hall’s Executive Director Tommy Deadwyler at (252) 598-0662 or email him at tommydeadwyler@mcgregorhall.org.