Rush Run Philharmonic will return to the Opera House for the second Potluck Sunday, April 24, at 5 p.m. The group played in December to an enthusiastic crowd who enjoyed an evening of fine food and really good music.
“The event was such a success, we’ve decided to do it again,” Opera House Board President Arla Ralston said. “There was so much food we had to set up extra tables.”
Rush Run is made up of fine musicians with a big following in the area. They play the kind of music that makes you want to sing along.
“We play the music we love, which can be described as Americana,” band leader Phil Rolleston said. “Our material comes from Woody Guthrie, Bob Dylan, Nanci Griffith, Paul Simon, Gillian Welch, James Taylor and many others who have inspired us.”
Besides familiar favorites, the band plays their own original work, all of which emphasizes their strong vocal harmonies.
Three members of the group hail from the Hillsboro area. Guitar player and vocalist Rolleston, and his Lobelia neighbors, bass player Bob Must and vocalist Ginger Must. The fourth, guitarist and vocalist Patrick Gabbert, lives in Greenbrier County.
The Opera House aims for a more casual setting with these Sunday shows. Tables are set up for dining and time is set aside for chatting with friends before the musicians take to the stage. The Opera House hopes to offer more Potluck Sunday shows that will give local bands a chance to play in the historic theater.
“We are open to suggestions,” said Opera House manager Brynn Kusic. “It would be really nice to have an evening of gospel or feature some of the young musicians from the area.”
Persons interested in playing for a Potluck Sunday should call 304-799-6645.
Potluck Sunday on April 24 will start with a covered dish dinner at 5 p.m. and the band will start around 6 p.m.
Donations of $5 per person are suggested to help defray the cost of the event.