Barter Theatre sets benefit performances of HANK AND MY HONKY TONK HEROES 5/17 & 5/21

Due to the tragic circumstances of the people in Glade Springs because of the tornados, Barter Theatre has designated two performances of Hank and My Honky Tonk Heroes as benefit performances for the Town of Glade Spring and its residents. All proceeds from tickets sold beginning immediately for the May 17 7:45 p.m. and May 21 8:15 p.m. shows will be donated to the relief fund. Call (276) 628-3991 or visit BarterTheatre.com for tickets and more information.

"Our hearts pour out to the good folks of Glade Spring and the devastation that has come to their homes and their lives. It is important that we offer help in every way that we are able," says producing artistic director Richard Rose. "This is an opportunity for folks to give to Glade Spring and to see an incredible show. I hope everyone will be able to come out and support the effort to help. Enjoy this great production while supporting all of those who so desperately need our help." 

The powerful tornado that touched down in Glade Springs packed winds of up to 165 mph, left four dead and 50 injured, and a trail of destruction and heartache. FEMA has rejected Virginia's request for Federal disaster money for Glade Spring. 

In a recent review, Robert McKinney wrote, "Hank Williams tribute artist Jason Petty, backed up by an excellent four-piece band, has flat out got the music nailed. Combine that with a respectful telling of Williams' tragic and far-too-short life story and you have two hours of entertainment that will be a drive down memories highway for many and an education about the intertwining roots of country music for everyone."
 
Hank Williams, Sr. is known the world over as one of the most influential singer-songwriters ever. "Chock full of Hank's hits including 'Your Cheatin' Heart,' 'I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry,' 'Hey Good Lookin',' 'Lovesick Blues' and many, more, 'Hank and My Honky Tonk Heroes' will have audiences clapping their hands and stomping their feet," said Rose.
 
Jason Petty offers a personal look at Williams growing up, how he became famous, and sings the songs of the people who influenced the legendary singer-songwriter and performers today who are influenced by Williams. 

"It seems his music and influence still touch the same nerve with people as it did some 65 years ago," said Petty.
 
"I picked some artists due to the fact that they were huge influences on a young Hank Williams...(ie, Jimmie Rodgers, Carter Family, Roy Acuff and Ernest Tubb). I chose the others because they were hugely influenced by Hank. Those include: George Jones, Webb Pierce, FaRon Young, Elvis and Alan Jackson," said Petty.
 
Some non-Hank Williams songs included are "Will the Circle Be Unbroken," "I Saw the Light" and "Midnight in Montgomery." 

"My band and I are very honored to be able to help in any way we can to benefit the victims of the terrible storms here," says Jason Petty. This community has welcomed us with open arms since we began our run in April and this is our way of showing our appreciation. We hope everyone can make plans now to attend one of these benefit shows. It will be a great night of music and fun - all for a worthy cause!"
 
Hank and My Honky Tonk Heroes is a special presentation by Barter Theatre playing through May 21, sponsored by Food City, Strongwell, 11 Connects/WJHL-TV, Bristol Herald Courier, TriCities.com, The Business Journal, WBRF-FM 98.1 and WABN AM & FM. Barter Theatre is partly funded by the NEA and the VCA. For tickets and more information on "Hank and My Honky Tonk Heroes," call (276) 628-3991 or visit www.BarterTheatre.com.

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