A partnership between the City of Kingsport, Tenn., and Toby Weisend will result in new musical performances at the Renaissance Theatre during the next year.
Former Ohio resident and president of Skyflight Productions, Weisend, has focused his attention in bringing his cultural element to Kingsport, Tenn. While living in Ohio, Weisend welcomed artists of all genres, including several Grammy-nominated artists, to rural eastern Ohio from all over the globe including France, Canada and Australia. The concerts were very successful, enhancing and enriching the small community of Barnesville, Ohio. Channeling his ideas, visions and goals into a small town setting certainly goes against the grain of most entrepreneurial promoters. Rather than competing for a reputable presence in an overcrowded metropolitan "scene," Weisend firmly believes that a small community can support and prosper from cultural expression.
"Many artistic/creative individuals in a small town have not had the opportunity or resources to experience the nourishment from some of the nation's underappreciated musicians willing to share their creations." Weisend believes that his project will survive from word of mouth, lack of competition and stellar performances. "Every show I produce, I put my reputation on the line."
Weisend supports community efforts and energy and believes that this is the forum to make a community thrive. If the concert series is supported and well-attended, Weisend will expand his quest, potentially acquiring larger-scale talent. There will be no boundaries in genre selection; national talent will be of utmost importance.
A line-up is set for Kingsport through the summer. Some of the artists include The Barefoot Movement, Nora Jan Struthers and the Party Line, Gina Sicilia, Audrey Auld and The Steel Wheels. All Skyflight Production shows feature reserved seating in the Renaissance Theatre. Refreshments will be for sale at the theatre.
For complete descriptions of the shows and to purchase tickets call (423) 392-8414 or visit the City of Kingsport Office of Cultural Arts' website, www.EngageKingsport.com.
