A! Magazine for the Arts

Robin and Linda Williams

Robin and Linda Williams

The Lincoln celebrates 10 years of performances

April 30, 2014

The spring season is in swing at The Lincoln Theatre in Marion, Va.

With featured performances including classical and jazz, blues and bluegrass, and live theatre, The Lincoln has made strides in diversification of its programming and audience appeal. This year marks the 10-year anniversary of The Lincoln's reopening, and plans have been made to ensure that the celebration year is one to remember.

"When the doors to The Lincoln were opened in 2004, I doubt anyone knew that we would grow into what we are today," said Executive Director Kristin Untiedt-Barnett. "The Lincoln is an anchor for Marion's Downtown Historic District, a driver for tourism and economic growth, and a nationally known brand with our Song of the Mountains bluegrass concert series. These are great accomplishments that have positioned us well for the future."

The Lincoln Theatre's official 10-Year Anniversary Celebration is held during the weekend of May 16-18. The celebration offers three days of arts and entertainment, along with special recognitions for community support. Robin & Linda Williams and Their Fine Group return to The Lincoln stage for a special performance Friday, May 16 at 7 p.m. "Back in 1998, when The Lincoln was still in development, Robin & Linda Williams headlined the first fundraising concert for the organization," said Untiedt-Barnett. "We are pleased to be able to bring them back to kick off our anniversary weekend." Robin & Linda Williams are Virginia-based performers who tour across the United States. They are known for their robust blend of bluegrass, folk, old-time and acoustic country that some call "Americana."

The celebration continues Saturday, May 17 at 8 p.m., with a performance honoring not only The Lincoln's anniversary, but also the 50th anniversary of the British Invasion. Live from Las Vegas, Yesterday: A Tribute to The Beatles, performs all eras of Beatles music, wearing drainpipe trousers and playing authentic instruments. Audiences will be singing along with favorites from the Fab Four, including "Hard Day's Night," "Help," "I Wanna Hold Your Hand" and "Revolution."

After reliving the British Invasion, patrons are invited to return to The Lincoln for the final weekend celebration performance Sunday, May 18. "Relive The Lincoln!: An Anniversary Tribute" offers a look back at the past with memories and reflections from The Lincoln Theatre's early years. Featuring music from regional performers and special songs with The Lincoln Theatre Children's Chorus, the Anniversary Tribute recognizes the history of the theatre, the volunteers who rebuilt the facility, and the supporters who have kept it going. The performance also serves as one of the anniversary fundraisers, moving The Lincoln closer to its goal of a "decade" of fundraisers.

The Lincoln Theatre is offering special weekend packaging for the 10-Year Anniversary Celebration, and offers group rates for groups of 10 or more. For details and information, contact The Lincoln Theatre Box Office at 276-783-6092 or visit www.thelincoln.org.

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