Press Release
An all-star lineup of musicians thrilled a sold out crowd at the Frank Erwin Center last night to help raise money for central Texas wildfire victims
Austin, Texas – The sold out crowd of 16,368 enjoyed performances by Christopher Cross, Terri Hendrix, Eric Johnson, Joe Satriani, Asleep at the Wheel, Texas Tornados, Randy Rogers Band, Lyle Lovett, Willie Nelson, Dixie Chicks and George Strait. In between acts, emcees Kyle Chandler and Turk Pipkin encouraged the audience to donate $10 to Austin Community Foundation’s Central Texas Wildfire Fund by texting FIRE to 84665.
“The Frank Erwin Center is so pleased to have played a role in helping make it such a huge success,” says John Graham, Director of the Frank Erwin Center.
“We want to thank everyone for coming out to support this great cause, it was truly a spectacular night,” says Louis Messina of The Messina Group.
“What an incredible night! In all my 41 years of playing music I can’t remember a night of such incredible music and genuine community spirit displayed by central Texas folks. Thanks Erwin Center and UT as well as ALL the volunteers, crew and musicians who made the event so cool! I'll await the final figures but am confident nearly $700,000 will be raised after all is said and done,” says Asleep at the Wheel’s Ray Benson.
Total funds raised from the concert will be released at a later date. All of the net proceeds will be dispersed to central Texas community organizations and charities via the Central Texas Wildfire Fund at the Austin Community Foundation.
Fire Relief: The Concert for Central Texas is the sixth sellout for the Frank Erwin Center in 2011. Other 2011 sellouts include: George Strait and Reba with special guest Lee Ann Womack (Jan. 14), The Monster Ball Tour starring Lady Gaga with special guest Semi Precious Weapons (April 6), Davis Cup by BNP Paribas (July 8-10), Katy Perry “California Dreams Tour” with special guest Robyn (July 30) and Taylor Swift Speak Now World Tour 2011 (Oct. 26).
Since 1977, the Frank Erwin Center has served Central Texans with some of the best in live entertainment. The multi-purpose facility located on The University of Texas at Austin campus, hosts a variety of events including concerts, theatrical performances, family shows and sporting events. It also serves as the home court for the Texas men’s and women’s basketball teams.
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