Local musicians chosen to open for Dean Brody at Barrie's Troubadour Festival
Three emerging musicians from across the region have been selected to perform as part of the Local Opener Showcase at this year's Troubadour Festival Summer Concert Series in downtown Barrie.
The winners—Cam Brown, Rebekah Hawker, and Lance Dobinson—were announced Friday. Each will take the Meridian Place stage on Sat., June 14, each performing 30-minute sets ahead of Canadian country music superstar Dean Brody, who headlines the opening night of the four-part series.
'This is the best news,' said Brown, an acoustic singer/songwriter based in Barrie. 'I'm absolutely ecstatic to be a part of the Local Opener Showcase.'
Brown, known for his heartfelt performances at venues across the region, said his sound is influenced by chart-topping artists like Chris Stapleton, Morgan Wallen, and Kacey Musgraves.
Cam Brown
Hawker, who blends country and folk, has earned attention after opening for artists such as Jim Cuddy and The Good Lovelies. She was also named the Emerging Artist Showcase winner at the Mariposa Folk Festival.
'Thank you so much,' she said after receiving the news. 'I appreciate this so much and am so excited to be included.'
Rebekah Hawker
Dobinson, a performer with a passion for classic country and the timeless voice of Elvis Presley, rounds out the trio. He has previously shared the stage with Canadian country artists Aaron Pritchett and Jamie Warren.
'I am certainly honoured to be a part of this event, so thank you,' stated Dobinson.
Lance Dobinson
Lance Dobinson
The Troubadour Festival Summer Concert Series is a free, open-air music event held at Meridian Place, located in the heart of downtown Barrie, presented by CTV Barrie, Pure Country 106, BOUNCE 104.1, and the Downtown Barrie BIA.
Along with Dean Brody on June 14, the festival also features headliners The 99s on July 26, Hawksley Workman on Aug. 16, and Brett Kissel on Sept. 6.
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