On Sunday, September 9 from 3pm-9pm a benefit concert will be held at the LaBelle Theater in South Charleston, WV. Proceeds from the concert will go to the Leigh Ann Bowlin Support Fund.  Leigh Ann is the cousin of Sean Richardson, and a friend to many.  Her prolonged battle with cancer has been very expensive, and this concert is dedicated to celebrating her great spirit and raising money to defray some of the costs of her illness.  There’s a reason that this show is a “Best Bet” this week.  It will not only be a day of truly outstanding music, but it’s also for a very good cause.

A great line-up of bands who have donated their time to help raise money to support Leigh Ann’s family, especially her 4 children.  A ten-dollar donation is recommended for admission.  Appearing on the bill are Sean Richardson, Whistlepunk, Comparsa, The Voo Doo Katz, The Rick Purdue Band, Mike Pushkin, Karmony, The River Ridge Band, and many others. 

Some of the musical acts are among the most in-demand in Charleston.  Fresh from the latest episode of Radio Free Charleston, Whistlepunk and Leigh Ann’s cousin Sean Richardson will perform.   Sean has been creating quite a buzz this summer with his mini-tour of the city, showing off his new songs and a remarkable approach to his music.   Motivated by his cousin’s struggle, Sean organized this benefit concert. 

Whistlepunk will be performing at his fundraiser just six days before their big day, September 15.  On that day Whistlepunk will perform a three-hour fundraiser for The Clay Center at Oktoberfest at Appalachian Power Park at 2 PM, then later that night, they’ll play a 9 PM show at the Vandalia Lounge.  Karen Allen, Spencer Elliott, Dan Jordan, and Brian Young have become one of the most-joyfully-anticipated bands in town, and a loyal fanbase is growing with each show.

Comparsa is an amazing Latin band.  It’s always a treat to see Eduardo and company play live.  They’ll bring their West Virginia-bred brand of Salsa to the La Belle Theater for the first time at Leigh Ann Bowlin’s fundraiser.

The Voo Doo Katz create a unique hybrid of world music styles.  The Katz recently lost their sax player, Derrick Kirk,  after a long struggle with cancer, so this show has special meaning to them.   Kai Haynes, Mark Davis, Andy Park, Deron Sodaro, and Ammed Soloman make up this skilled musical unit.

In addition to the bands performing, those in attendance will be invited to come up to the stage and read poetry or say a few kind, encouraging words to Leigh Ann.

Local radio coverage for the event has been provided by V100’s Ric Cochran, 102.7’s TJ King, and 580AM’s Bobby Johnson. Television coverage has been supplied by WCHS TV8 and FOX11.   This concert, to celebrate the life of Leigh Ann Bowlin and her wonderful, loving family; husband Carl, children Emma, Seth, Luke, and CJ will be held at the La Belle Theater, 311 D Street South Charleston on September 9, from 3 PM to 9 PM.