It's another high school reunion for the graduating classes of 1975 thru 1985 as organizers and fans plan and prepare for what's become one of the most anticipated local events of the year - Weir Rockin'.
In keeping with the Canadian classic rock theme, this year the annual Upper Sackville concert is celebrating year number six with Canadian multiple award winning artists Platinum Blonde, Prism and Kim Mitchell.
According to marketing chair Scott MacKenzie the concept of the outdoor event hasn't changed much at all. They're still offering classic Canadian rock acts, still approximately 2,500 tickets printed, still at the same ticket price.
"Don't get me wrong, the discussions come up every year about increasing numbers and bigger bands...but this is really working," he said. "It's an 'if it isn't broken why fix it' thing."
MacKenzie said although the popularity of the concert continues to grow — and they probably could make it bigger — the volunteer board is comfortable with the numbers.
"We can get people on and off the field in a timely manner, the beer lines and the bathroom lines are shorter and we can provide the crowd a quality event," he said. "We're not for profit, so we're OK operating at the level we're at."
As for the line-up, producer Stacey Moore said they have gone back from four acts last year to three, but it's a good thing.
"People wanted to hear more hits from each band," she said. "With three equal billing acts we don't have to rush them off the stage. We're doing what the crowd wanted."
All three acts may be past their heyday, but what a heyday they had. Mitchell had numerous hits with 70s band Max Webster and a successful solo career with hits like Patio Lanterns and Go for a Soda.
Prism was also hugely popular back in the big hair era with Spaceship Superstar and A Night to Remember.
Finally, Platinum Blonde - big and bold 80s personified. They made it big breaking young girls' hearts with songs like Crying Over You and Not In Love, but according to lead singer Mark Holmes the gig isn't over.
"For us it's not just about making money from the old stuff," he said in a telephone interview from the road. "We have a new single we're promoting right now."
They do still love playing the old stuff though, and Holmes said they are looking forward to Weir Rockin'.
"It's going to be great," said Holmes. "Sometimes you worry about the weather, but no matter what, people always love outdoor shows."
If the past five years is any indication Holmes is right. Weir Rockin' has become so popular — especially to the middle aged demographic — that people are now planning their vacations around it. Previous acts like April Wine, Trooper, Sass Jordan are bringing fans from the 'bigger is better' decade of the 80s out in droves.
Weir Rockin' has sold-out every year and so far sales for the $35 tickets are on par for the Aug.18 show. For all concert information and to purchase tickets visit www.weirrockin.com.
blhall@eastlink.ca
