The full lineup for the 42nd season of An Appalachian Summer Festival was announced Tuesday, bringing a star-studded lineup traversing theatre, music, dance, visual arts and film. The season lasts from June 27 – Aug. 1, with tickets going on sale April 15 at 10 a.m.
The Grammy award-winning bluegrass quintet, the Punch Brothers, will kick off the festival at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on June 27, starting at 7:30 p.m. This group pushes the boundaries of acoustic music, specifically noted by their highly acclaimed album, “All Ashore,” which won a Grammy for Best Folk Album in 2018.
The eclectically timeless Gladys Knight takes to the Schaefer Center on July 8 at 7:30 p.m. Knight has won seven Grammy awards for her 38 total albums, including 11 individual albums. Her style ranges from — but is not limited to — pop, R&B, gospel and adult contemporary with accolades in film and TV as well.
Straight No Chaser is an all-male a cappella group focused on fundamentally moving people, but driven by a sense of humor. Composed of nine voices, this group — with support from their dedicated fanbase — has won many accolades, including two RIAA Gold Certified albums for their EPs, “Holiday Spirits” and “Christmas Cheers.” This a cappella group will deliver a beach bash perfect for a Boone summer at the Schaefer Center on July 10 at 7:30 p.m.
Best known for his role as Blaine Anderson in “Glee,” Emmy, Golden Globe and Tony award winner Darren Criss brings his talents to Boone. He is set to perform well-known songs from his work in “Glee,” “StarKid” and “Maybe Happy Ending,” among others in his eclectic career. As both a songwriter and entertainer, Criss is sure to provide a performance worthy of a Broadway stage — or the Schaefer Center stage — on July 18 at 7:30 p.m.
Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Rick Springfield comes to the Schaefer Center July 23 at 7:30 p.m. This ‘80s icon has had 17 U.S. Top 40 hits, including “Jessie’s Girl” and “Don’t Talk to Strangers,” alongside a handful of acting roles. If his performance is anything like his Sirius-XM radio show, “Working Class DJ with Rick Springfield,” Springfield is sure to transport audience members back to the ‘80s.
With 2026 being designated “The Year of the Hawk,” The Jayhawks are set to perform at the Schaefer Center on Aug. 1 at 7:30 p.m. Audience members never know what to expect in a live performance from this alternative country roots rock band, but it’s guaranteed to be memorable. Their 12th studio album is set to be released this year, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of The Jayhawks.
