Country music fans can expect to dance, shout, sing, drift away, laugh and cry when a lineup of sensational acts take to the stage for the inaugural Kiama Country Music Festival next month.
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“Country music has so many facets and I think we've covered them all,” event organiser Lincoln Piper said.
“We’ve made it possible for families to get involved on the deck and auditorium as well, people can expect a great night.
“The People’s Truck Fundraiser with so many amazing artists is a real bonus and draw card for the festival.”
The lineup includes CMAA Golden Guitar and award winning artists including Luke O'Shea who is renowned for his story telling performances.
“O’Shea grabs the attention of listeners hearts immediately,” Mr Piper said.
“Drew McAlister who rocks everywhere he plays will be there, he really is a great artist and Melinda Schneider, she has won so many awards and wins the hearts of audiences everywhere. She's an Australian women's icon looked up to by so many.”
Local country singers Emma Gene and Emily Markham will also take to the stage, as well as a living legend of country music, Chad Morgan.
“When a man as old as Chad is still performing, making people laugh with his infectious smile and charisma, how can anyone possibly not be endeared by him,” Mr Piper said.
“He really is fun and this world needs laughter, smiles and love – that's what you get from Chad.”
The Kiama Country Music Festival launches as a time when small and intimate music festivals in rural regions are experiencing a time of rapid growth and popularity across the country.
“Being up close and in the personal space of a performer really helps them connect with their audience and the audience with the performer,” Mr Piper said.
“Regional areas are usually classed as the underdogs but we just keep proving we can get it right, in our region we have so many talented people in the industry from promoters and musicians to production crews.
“Plus regional areas are backed by the local population excited to have such great festivals in their own back yards. This usually accounts for half the crowd, if not more, so you really get a strong sense of pride.
“Our region has so much to offer, it's not just the festival you enjoy, you get to soak up the local vibe and see the sights.”
Mr Piper said audiences would be suitably impressed by the towns first crack at country music.
“A big congrats goes to Kiama Leagues for taking the initiative to give this every chance and giving me the opportunity to put this together,” he said.
“Also a big thanks to all the artists helping me out to make our first year so amazing and seeing it as a long-term initiative to put Kiama on the map as a new destination for an awesome Country Music Festival, a special mention also to Kix Country for helping us out.
“I really hope our local country scene embraces this opportunity and are willing to help us grow it into something huge as the years go by – maybe the next Tamworth.”
Details: Kiama Leagues Club on June 9 – 11.
Click here for more information.
