Published: October 18, 2009 11:22 pm      

Barrage to replace StepCrew at MSU Riley Center

The Mississippi State University Riley Center for Education and Performing Arts announces that Barrage will perform at the center’s historic theater on Sunday, Oct. 25, at 6 p.m. 

The StepCrew was originally scheduled to perform on the same date at 4 p.m., but has canceled their fall tour dates. 

The MSU Riley Center officials worked quickly to secure a comparable if not better recognized Celtic group to replace The StepCrew. All tickets sold to The StepCrew will be honored at Barrage’s 6 p.m. performance on Sunday, Oc. 25. 

  Barrage is described as a high-octane fiddle-fest that features an international, multi-talented cast performing an eclectic mix of music, song and dance. Barrage has entertained millions of people around the globe. Fans in Europe, Asia and North America have enjoyed Barrage at International Festivals, Concert Performances, Special Events and TV appearances. In October of 2007, Barrage performed as part of Meridian Community College’s Arts and Letter Series. The group will be presenting new work, including 11 new songs along with some high energy fan favorites.  

Barrage performances offer up a diverse fusion of cultures, musical styles and incredible performance vitality. The music of Barrage continues to evolve - combining contemporary world music influences, layered vocal arrangements and pulsating modern beats and rhythms. Since its creation in Calgary, Canada, Barrage has been featured many times at events worldwide having played for many Presidents, Prime Ministers and Princes. Barrage has also had their television productions aired on several international TV networks including the PBS network in the USA, the BBC in the UK and CBC in Canada and has performed live shows in New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan, China, Canada, Finland, Sweden, Ireland, Denmark, Poland, Germany, Norway, Monaco, the USA and the UK.

“While were sad to learn that StepCrew couldn’t honor their date here, we jumped at the chance to present Barrage. Their current tour is getting phenomenal feedback,” said Dennis Sankovich, executive director of the MSU Riley Center.  "Those who purchased tickets expecting to see a high-energy performance with fiddle playing and Celtic dance will not be disappointed in the least!"

Tickets for Barrage on sale now at the MSU Riley Center box office. To accommodate the artists' touring schedule, the show will begin at 6 p.m., not 4 p.m. as previously scheduled for StepCrew. 

Tickets for StepCrew will be honored at the Barrage show. There is no need to return or exchange. Riley Center officials just ask patrons to make note of the new start time.  For questions or tickets, call 601-696-2200 or visit the box office located at 2200 Fifth Street in the heart of historic downtown Meridian. Box office hours are Monday-Friday 10 am to 6 pm. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.msurileycenter.com.

The cast of Barrage features six violinists/vocalists, drummer, bass player, and guitarist. For more information, visit: www.barrage.org.