Once again, it’s that time of year when we get the long-awaited answer to “Who’s coming to the amphitheater this year?” The Villages Amphitheater in Fayetteville is excited to welcome back its presenting sponsor, Mercedes Benz of South Atlanta, to bring you the 2010 Summer Concert Series. This year’s lineup offers a wide variety of groups that should have something for just about every musical taste.

Kicking off the season on May 1 are country music legends, The Oak Ridge Boys, who will offer up 50 years of tradition on the stage as they perform their classic hits, “Elvira”, “Come On In”, and “Bobby Sue”, among many others.

On June 12, The Villages welcome back singer/songwriter Johnny Rivers. Johnny was all over the airwaves in the early and mid-60’s, and came back to score a few more hits in the 70’s. He has left a significant mark on early rock and roll history with the songs he wrote and performed, but also as a hit writer for other artists of that era. He will treat concert goers to a selection of his hits that include “Secret Agent Man”, “Maybelline”, and “Poor Side of Town”.

July 10 brings American Top 40 hit makers, The Little River Band, to The Villages stage. In their heyday from 1977 to 1982, this group originally from Australia cranked out thirteen hit songs that played on eight-tracks all across America. Their smooth harmonies and strong melodies made them the soft rock kings of that era. This is one of those shows that will have you slow dancing in the aisles as you sing along to every song in the set. Standouts include “Reminiscing”, “Cool Change”, “Lady”, and “Lonesome Loser”.

July 31 will be a night to remember with The Family Stone. In the late 60’s, they came on the scene with a unique blend of rock and R&B that spoke to the youth of that generation. They are often regarded as the best performers of the legendary Woodstock festival. The Family Stone still tour across the country, bringing their high-energy stage show that will have everyone on their feet and “Dancing to the Music”. Their other hits include “Everyday People”, “Family Affair”, and “Thank You Falletinme Be Mice Elf Again”.

Finishing out the series with a bang are classic rock pioneers, Grand Funk Railroad. On Aug. 28, their train will stop in Fayetteville to remind us of what made rock and roll great. Their exhilarating live performances will be a memorable closing to the season when they perform classic rock staples, “Loco-Motion”, “Some Kind of Wonderful”, “We’re an American Band” and many others.

Brian Wismer, amphitheater manager and Main Street director for the city of Fayetteville, commented on this year’s lineup. “Our loyal patrons told us that they wanted more variety in the series, so we worked really hard to get a mix of groups that would appeal to fans of many types of music. I think this may be our best lineup to date.”

Series ticket renewals are currently in progress. New series tickets will be available to the general public beginning February 18, and will be a flat price of $150 for reserved seats, and $110 for general admission seating on the lawn. A select number of tables for eight are available in the orchestra pit for $2,000, and tables in the tiered section for $1,600.

Series ticket holders end up saving between 34% - 47% from individual ticket prices, and receive a pre-sale opportunity for additional discounted tickets to individual shows. “The pre-sale is an added benefit given to series ticket holders. It is a great way to entertain family and friends that may be visiting over the summer”, said Wismer.
Tickets to individual concerts will go on sale March 10th, and cost $30 for lawn tickets, and $39 for reserved seating. Tables for eight are $500 ($62.50/person) in the Orchestra pit, and $400 ($50/person) at the tiered tables.

Tickets are sold at the Historic Train Depot in downtown Fayetteville and will also be available soon via the website at www.villagesamphitheater.com. For sponsorships and other info, please call 770-719-4173.

The Villages Amphitheater is owned by the Downtown Development Authority and managed by the Main Street Tourism Association of Fayetteville.