STAFFORD, Va. — Stafford County is proud to announce that one of its own, renowned bluegrass musician Mark Newton, and his partner, Steve Thomas, will perform the first concert held at Stafford’s new Celebration Stage at Pratt Park. Newton and Thomas are set to play the stage, an initiative of the Stafford’s 350th Anniversary Celebration, on Friday, Sept. 19, 2014, at 7:30 p.m.
“We are delighted to have a wonderful venue to offer performances of this caliber to our citizens,” said Chairman of the Board of Supervisors Jack Cavalier, Griffis-Widewater District. “I think it’s fitting that a native son of Stafford County performs the first concert at a stage that symbolizes our 350 years of history.”
Newton is a veteran of the Heights of Grass, Cabin Hill, the Knoxville Grass, Virginia Squires, Tony Rice Unit and even the Seldom Scene for a brief stint. Thomas has toured with award-winning artists such as Barbara Mandrell and Del McCoury. He’s played the Grand Ole Opry with Jim & Jesse and the Osborne Brothers. They bring with them years of musical experience, a Grammy nomination, a CMA nomination and multiple IBMA awards. The duo formed in 2012 and just released their first album Reborn.
Tickets for the concert are $1 and may be purchased online, at a Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities office, or at the concert. No alcohol is allowed at the park and patrons are asked to bring their own chairs and blankets. Celebration Stage is located near the entrance to Pratt Park at 120 River Road, Falmouth, VA 22405.
