Starry Nights Concert Series to take year off

The Sisters Starry Nights Concert Series will take a one-year hiatus, with plans to return in a more streamlined format in spring 2004.

Series co-chairs Susan Arends and Jeri Fouts announced the break this week.

The event, which has raised more than $330,000 for the Sisters Schools Foundation since its inception in 1997, has featured 18 concerts in six years.

Among the artists who have donated their time to perform are Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Lee Ann Womack, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Michael McDonald, John Hiatt, Kim Carnes, Karla Bonoff, Deana Carter, Jeffrey Steele, Greg Barnhill and Hal Ketchum.

"Starry Nights has been fortunate in recent years to have big name artists generously join our roster of performers," said Fouts. "As incredible as this gift has been artistically, it has been a mixed blessing because it created such a huge demand and a limited ticket supply. Many people have been disappointed that they have been unable to attend."

Among the changes being considered are moving from a three-part series to a two-part format, and the possibility of having two performances of a high demand concert. There will also be restructuring in the areas of sponsorship and general admission ticket sales, that will be compatible with the new high school auditorium, which is slated for completion in spring 2004.

"We plan to maintain continuity with past sponsors, but also find ways to allow new potential sponsors and general admission ticket buyers the opportunity to participate," said Arends. "The new auditorium will offer better sight lines and other improvements that will take Starry Nights to a new level of quality and audience satisfaction."

With the continuing budget crisis affecting public schools, Starry Nights organizers are hoping that the past supporters of the event will consider making a donation to the Sisters Schools Foundation this year. Starry Nights funds have helped support programs and activities that have been faced with budget cuts, such as music, fine arts, math, technology, outdoor school, athletics and field trips.

"The Starry Nights Concert Series has made a tremendous positive impact for the benefit of our students," said School Superintendent Steve Swisher. "We appreciate the extraordinary work of the co-chairs and Starry Nights committee and volunteers, as well as the contributions of the sponsors and ticket holders."

For more information, contact the Sisters School District at 549-8521.