Central Ohio Opry to perform in Belfast

The sounds of classic country music will soon be rolling through the hills of Belfast. 

The Central Ohio Opry Band, known previously for performances at the Colony Theater in Hillsboro, will begin holding regular performances at the Belfast Community Center starting Oct. 15.

Opry band member Mike Hutchinson said that the opry provided family entertainment close to home. 

"It's just a good, classical country music show," Hutchinson said. "There's a lot of people around here who are driving all the way down to Lucasville because you can't hear this kind of music on the radio."

Hutchinson said the music is in the style of Merle Haggard, George Jones, and Marty Robbins. 

Opry band members include Danny Rumer, Dave Hutchinson, Harley Back, Andy Merritt, and Roger and Brett Snivley. Featured singers are Mike Hutchinson and National recording artist Jenni Lynn.

"It appeals to baby boomers," Hutchinson said. "It's the kind of music they used to hear growing up. There have been so many people asking us when we're going to do another show. We struggled to find some place to do it, and then Stephanie Frazer who helps take care of the old Belfast school said they were needing a way to have some revenue coming in. If people like it, it's going to work out well for everybody." 

An opening show is planned for Oct. 15 from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. The doors open at 7 p.m., and admission is $8. there will be concessions, a bake sale and a 50-50 drawing. 

The opry will be doing a performance in Wheelersburg later this month, and then will be back to Belfast for a performance Nov. 5. 

"We used to have big crowds every Saturday night," Hutchinson said. "With all the local people who love country music, it will give people something to do on a Saturday night, and then the school will also have enough to keep its doors open for community events or auctions or whatever they want to have." 

While the opry will be doing some newer country songs, Hutchinson said they stick to the classics. 

"Some people are driving 80 miles to hear this kind of music," Hutchinson said. "Now, people can stay in Highland County and listen to some good live music on a Saturday night." 

For more information, contact Hutchinson at (937) 365-1528 or visit www.reverbnation.com/thecentralohioopryband.