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Wednesday, Jul 17, 2019

Shovels & Rope to headline The Classic Kickoff Concert benefiting Niswonger Children’s Hospital

Tickets for The Classic Kickoff Concert are now on sale

The indie folk duo Shovels & Rope will headline this year’s Classic Kickoff Concert, a daylong, outdoor festivity on Sunday, Aug. 11, at MeadowView Conference Resort & Convention Center to celebrate the beginning of the 2019 Niswonger Children’s Hospital Classic.

Comprised of husband and wife Michael Trent and Cary Ann Hearst, Shovels & Rope has released seven albums since 2008, most recently By Blood in April of this year. In 2013, the pair won the Americana Music Association’s Emerging Artist of the Year award and the Song of the Year for their hit single, “Birmingham.”

Joining Shovels & Rope for The Classic Kickoff Concert will be local Southern rock band The Twang Bangers and singer-songwriter Aaron Lee Tasjan.

“We hope the community turns out, not only to enjoy themselves with the festivities and great music, but to support a great cause,” said Lisa Carter, chief executive officer of Niswonger Children’s Hospital.

“Events like these are so important because they directly help the children and families that Niswonger Children’s Hospital serves.”

The all-day celebration will begin following the conclusion of the World Long Drive qualifying rounds. Food trucks will be on site, as well as games and entertainment for all ages. Putting and long-drive contests will be held inside golf AMPLIFIED, a golf simulation and practice facility.

During the event, the public will have an opportunity to meet and hang out with some of the pro golfers and amateurs participating in the World Long Drive competition.

“We are extremely excited with the addition of the Classic Kickoff Concert at MeadowView,” said Frank Lett, executive director of Visit Kingsport. “The growth of the events happening over the three days is going to be something that everyone can enjoy, and it helps to shine a light on our region!”

Tickets for The Classic Kickoff Concert are now on sale. General admission is $25 and VIP tickets are $50, with all proceeds benefiting Niswonger Children’s Hospital. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting Niswonger Children’s Hospital Classic or by visiting Cattails at MeadowView or the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce, 400 Clinchfield St., Suite 100.