Everyone was crazy for a “sharp-dressed man” as people filled the seats Saturday night at the Rodgers Theatre.
Sponsored by Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home and produced by CR Productions, ZZ’s Top — a ZZ Top tribute band from Branson — headlined the night and brought people to their feet with rousing renditions of songs made popular in the 70s.
The show started with a regional act named Atlas May, a duo from Cape Girardeau that perform exclusively on acoustic guitars. Atlas May performed a variety of different cover songs, and also showed their creativity by performing original material.
“I always like to bring in local/regional acts to open for the headlining act,” CR Productions Owner Robbie Frish explained. “There are talented people in this area and they love to perform. I like being able to help make that happen.”
A musician himself, Frish remarked that he likes providing opportunities for local musicians to shine.
“I like giving back to the community that has been so supportive of me in the past,” Frish noted. “And it always feels good to be able to help and donate to organizations like the Boys and Girls Club of the Heartland.”
After the show ended, Frish presented a $500 check to Chris Rushin and Terry McCormick, of Boys and Girls Club of the Heartland.
“I like being involved in events like this for multiple reasons,” Rhonda Hillis remarked. “I love live music, and I happen to be one of those people who grew up here with the Rodgers Theatre.”
Hillis explained being involved with events at the Rodgers Theatre is a passion project for her, because she appreciates the history of the building, but there is still much work that needs to be done with restoration efforts at the historical theater.
“So many people will say that there’s nothing to do in Poplar Bluff,” Hillis stated. “And we did have multiple locations for different kinds of activities in the past. But, this is something that people can enjoy locally without having to travel to Branson.”
For his part, Frish said for several years, he has wanted to produce concerts that feature local musicians.
“I like being able to promote concerts here, and I also like being able to give to organizations like the Boys & Girls Club of the Heartland,” Frish noted. “I prefer to be able to donate to a local group or charity instead of a national one.”
As for the future, Frish said he hasn’t gotten anything scheduled yet, but he has “several irons in the fire” as he plans for future shows in the community.