Three days and nights of country gospel music will be performed for the people of the Ozarks July 21 through 23 as the International Country Gospel Music Association celebrates its return to West Plains after a two-year absence due to COVID-19 restrictions.
This year’s event marks the association’s 66th annual music convention and awards show, and will be held in a new location this year, at The Bridge Church.
The church is in the building that formerly housed The Barn Event Center, 10105 S. U.S. 63, just four miles south of Dairy Queen in West Plains.
Singers and musicians come from all across America and several foreign countries to perform for the people of the Ozarks, say organizers of the event, adding, “They love our community and are looking forward to seeing the wonderful people who attend the concerts.”
The shows feature country gospel, bluegrass gospel, and southern gospel music. This year’s performers include Barbara Fairchild and Roy Morris, Bruce Haynes, James Payne, Rachel Taylor, Dan Duncan, Heather Van Deren, Gene Reasoner, Ava Kasich, Mary Fay Jackson, Corey Farlow, Bob and Alta Courtney, Joy Roberts, bluegrass favorites The Waymasters, Loretta Hummel, Sonshine Road, Gayla Earlene and comedians Ozark Nelson and Pastor Pudge.
Music begins at 10 a.m. July 21, with showcase performances scheduled each day, continuing until 4:30 p.m. The evening concerts start at 6 p.m. daily.
A special feature on opening night will be country stars Barbara Fairchild and Roy Morris, cohosting as well as singing hit songs of their career, said promoters. Each night fans will hear favorites from previous years' events, plus appearances by new artists.
The final night's feature is the 66th Annual Gold Cross Awards show and Concert. And, for the first time in West Plains, an ICGMA Sunday morning church service will be held.
The entire event is free to the public.
For additional information, call ICGMA president Dan Duncan at 417-372-1129 or 417-255-9771.
