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 “I couldn’t tell you if I wanted to, because I
don’t know….by design.”
What is known is that over the two day event, there will be
occasions when some local musicians will arrive on the scene
somewhere along the competitor rows at the Pigs & Swigs Festival.
These musicians will then set up and start playing and singing,
delivering a new “pop-up” version of what some may call ‘wandering
minstrels.’
Look for an abbreviated version of the “Chicken Pickin’ Orchestra”
featuring local bluegrass musicians Danny Tackett, Polly Sampson and
Jimmy Birkey to show up somewhere on Friday evening between the
hours of 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and again on Saturday between the hours of
2 p.m. and 4 p.m.
“Twang” with musicians Tom Ricker and Bruce Bergethon will come
playing the guitar, ukulele, harmonica, fiddle or mandolin between
the hours of 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday.
Another pop-up group that will be out and about at the same time
will include Dave Berchtold from Minier, Brian Stear, and Bradford
Walsh from Mount Pulaski. Look for some other surprise musicians to
join these three that may consist of some of Walsh’s musician
buddies from his days at Mount Pulaski High School and Lincoln
College.
The pop-up musicians is being sponsored by Joan Graue (Chris’
mother) and it promises to be a fun time for everyone. Graue spoke
about the novelty of the event saying that one won’t know where the
musicians are at any given time. But the fun of it will be to walk
the competitor’s rows and just see who you run into.
In addition to the pop-up entertainment there will be “on stage”
entertainment on Friday and Saturday on the Swigs side of the
festival. Look for the following artists to perform inside the beer
garden.
From the website:
Lesleigh Bennett
Friday, June 1, 2018 at 5:00 p.m.
Local songtress and professional recording artist, Lesleigh Bennett,
will be the first artist taking the downtown stage. An accomplished
singer, she typically features Christian and Gospel music in her
shows, but performs an array of other genres, as well. Come join us
for an evening of smooth vocals that will lift your spirits and prep
you for the great weekend ahead!
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Powerplay Band
Friday, June 1, 2018 at 8 p.m.
For the best in Jazz, Blues, R&B, Motown, Disco, and much more, come
experience this St. Louis based band as they take you on a musical
ride down memory lane. Powerplay is a five to eight piece dance band
with 20+ years specializing in classy, high energy entertainment.
Combining many different styles of music, Powerplay generates a fun
and exciting atmosphere everywhere they perform. Be ready to shake
your tail feathers as this band packs the dance floor!
Toocan
Saturday, June 2, 2018 at 4 p.m.
Central Illinois band Toocan is an energy-filled, fun and festival
friendly foursome with a tropical flare. Appealing to a wide variety
of ages and musical palettes, Toocan plays a diverse range of tunes.
There's something for everyone, from the beachy melodies of Kenny
Chesney to the energy-driven songs of Fitz and the Tantrums. Come
relax to the tune of Toocan's mellow vibes!
Tennessee Borderline
Saturday, June 2, 2018 at 8 p.m.
Tennessee Borderline entertains crowds with a variety of modern and
classic country, southern and classic rock with a splash of some
80’s and today’s pop hits. This band’s enthusiasm is infectious as
it spreads into the audience. They have as much fun on-stage as
their crowds do off-stage. Come join us on Saturday night for a
rockin' good time!
So, if what you really care about is good music, the Pigs and Swigs
Festival this weekend will give you plenty of opportunities to enjoy
a wide variety of offerings.
[Nila Smith]
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