Two of the region’s best traditional bluegrass bands will take the stage in Stockton on March 14, 2015 as part of WDVR radio’s popular “Heartlands Hayride” program.
More than 15 years after its inception, the Old Time, Country and Bluegrass music variety show is still performing live in front of an audience and recorded for WDVR 89.7 FM. The March 14, 2015 show features fantastic local bluegrass talents – Stone Hearth Blue Grass Band with Mark Miklos & Louie Setzer.
Heartlands Hayride was created in the late summer of 2000 by Frank “Napp” Napurano, Ginny Napurano and Fred Boenig. Frank wanted to convert his Friday night country show, “The Country Store”, to a live, audience show. But the mythical “Country Store” with the pot bellied stove didn’t lend itself well to a live audience production because of its reliance on several “Off-stage” characters, monologues, audio props and the active imagination of the listener. So the discussion quickly turned to the creation of a new show, ala the old barn dance-hayride shows circa 1940s.
It was agreed that Heartlands Hayride would be created to foster, encourage and actively promote the musical arts. The show would invite participation of new and upcoming local talent who would not ordinarily have access to performing on the radio.
As a live on-air radio production, the “Hayride” is carefully timed for its allotted two hour broadcast and is skillfully produced by Richard Evans who is also the show’s Em Cee. The two-hour show usually features a visiting country or bluegrass band in addition to the regulars, Each artist or group getting two sets. At the present time the show airs the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month.
A donation of $12 is required for admission ($6 kids 12 & under). Doors open at 4:30 PM at The Virginia Napurano Cultural Arts Center on Stockton, and music starts promptly at 6:00 PM. Food service is available on site and parking is free.
Get a sneak preview of this month’s musical talent:
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