Big bluegrass Local enthusiast books shows by national bluegrass acts

Among the dance recitals and Broadway plays, local promoter Tony Smee hopes to schedule a few big name bluegrass acts to play at the River Campus this fall and into next year.

The first act, scheduled for Aug. 3, doesn't conform to the usual depiction of old-time bluegrass music of a family from Kentucky, Oklahoma or Arkansas, plucking string instruments and singing harmony together.

The Gibson Brothers are family, but they're from upstate New York. Smee booked them anyway, knowing their sound and their success so far.

Eric and Leigh Gibson grew up listening to and playing bluegrass on the front porch of their farmhouse in New York. They follow in the tradition and spirit of the brother harmony duo and are backed by a talented group.

Their latest album "Iron & Diamonds" hit No. 5 on the Billboard Bluegrass chart after its release in April.

As part of the bluegrass series, they will play at the Shuck Musical Recital Hall at Southeast Missouri State University's River Campus. The hall is in the restored chapel in the Old Seminary building, where the stained glass gives the room a soft and colored glow and the high ceilings give it a beautiful sound.

"We were just trying to find some place that was different and interesting for them to play, instead of just a bar or outdoor amphitheater," Smee said.

He said he is happy to have such a talented group come perform in Cape Girardeau.

"I think it's a winning combination -- outstanding vocals and great backup band," he said. "People will be treated to something really special if they come and watch the show."

Tickets are $22.50, and with the hall seating only 200 people, Smee predicts a sell out. This is the first concert of a series of nationally recognized acts he is organizing for the area.

"I want to do the series at the River Campus, but with their academic calendar, it's been kind of tough," he said.

Smee said the next concert should be near the beginning of November.

To keep bluegrass fans updated about upcoming events, Smee has put together a group called the Greater Cape Girardeau Friends of Bluegrass and encourages people to join. To learn more about the Friends of Bluegrass visit capebluegrass.com.

To purchase tickets for the Gibson Brothers, visit metrotix.com or call the River Campus Box Office at 651-2265.