Sisters Starry Nights announces 2005 lineup

The Sisters Starry Nights Concert Series returns in 2005 with a new, two-show format that brings Starry Nights favorites John Hiatt and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band back to the Sisters High School stage.

Both acts last performed here in 2000 and were big hits with the Sisters crowd.

A benefit for the Sisters Schools Foundation, Sisters Starry Nights has earned more than $430,000 in its seven-year history. The 2005 earnings should put the fund-raising totals over the $500,000 mark. The funds help support music, sports, art, technology and other classroom and co-curricular programs and activities at Sisters Elementary, Middle and High School.

The first show will feature John Hiatt on Saturday, March 5. Fans that last saw the renowned singer-songwriter headlining with his band in 2002 at the Les Schwab Amphitheater in Bend will enjoy the chance to see him at Starry Nights in a solo acoustic format, where he accompanies himself on guitar, harmonica and piano.

Nearly 30 years after the release of his debut album, Hiatt has never been more revered by peers, critics and fans than he is today. Known for his wise, witty and poignant lyrics and bluesy, expressive and sometimes gritty vocals, he is currently touring the country with fellow singer-songwriters Lyle Lovett, Guy Clark and Joe Ely.

On Saturday, April 2, Starry Nights welcomes the legendary Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, who will celebrate their 35th anniversary next year.

Over the course of a career that spans five decades and over 30 albums, NGDB has earned a reputation as one of America's most respected and beloved musical institutions. Along the way, they've scored platinum albums and hit singles ("Mr. Bojangles," "Fishin' in the Dark," "Make a Little Magic"), won countless awards and toured worldwide with their unique blend of country, folk and pop music.

Among their recent highlights are the return of founding member and "string wizard" John McEuen and the band's subsequent 2002 Reunion Tour, where they played to enthusiastic crowds at major venues in the U.S., Canada and Ireland.

In 2003, they released the third CD in their acclaimed "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" series, garnering critical raves and two Grammy nominations. Their album, "Welcome to Woody Creek," was released in September and has been hailed by the Associated Press as "among their finest works."

"We're thrilled that they are able to participate in the event again," said event co-chair Jeri Fouts. "Both John Hiatt and the Dirt Band are busier than ever with new albums and national tours, so we've had our fingers crossed that we would be able to get them back to Sisters."

The two-show format was adopted to streamline the event while still maintaining its viability as a fund-raiser.

"We feel that with the major time commitment required by so many volunteers, that two shows makes more sense than three," said co-chair Susan Arends. "In looking at the big picture, this should give Starry Nights a better chance to continue over time."

Sponsorship pricing will be adjusted based on the new format and proposals will be mailed out in early December. To be added to the sponsorship waiting list, contact Mike Gould at 318-1100.

General admission tickets will go on sale in February at Leavitt's Western Wear in Sisters. For more information, contact the Sisters School District at 549-8521.