For the City Times

WISCONSIN RAPIDS — What better way to wrap up an amazing performance season than to grace the stage with Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers! The Arts Council of South Wood County is proud to present this show at the Performing Arts Center of Wisconsin Rapids on Friday, March 16, at 7:30 pm.

Dazzling audiences for more than 60 years, it all began in Abilene, Texas, in 1955, when Larry was six, Steve was four, and Rudy was two. Since those days, the road the brothers have traveled has won them countless awards and has taken them to numerous concert halls, festival stages, national television shows, and even the White House on several occasions. The brothers have seen their music top the charts and touch the lives of fans of all ages.

After singing together for decades, the Gatlins don’t take their success for granted. Larry shares that “We are grateful to God for our fabulous run, and we can’t wait to see what else He has in store.” Steve adds, “We have been very blessed and grateful for the many fans who have stayed with us over the years. You have impacted our lives more than you can possibly imagine.” And from Rudy, “One of the nicest things fans can say is that we are still singing and playing better than ever, and that’s nice to hear.”

In addition to touring, the brothers recently released a new Gospel album titled, Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers—The Gospel According to Gatlin. Larry says, “The songs are a little edgy, a little bit different. Steve, Rudy and I didn’t get where we are by playing it safe. We have always pushed the envelope, we have always crossed borders others were afraid to cross, and we’re not going to stop now…and that’s the Gospel According to Gatlin.”

The afternoon prior to the show, Larry Gatlin is conducting a 90-minute interactive songwriting workshop with students from various high schools in the area. This outreach is an example of how the Arts Council focuses on providing and funding Artist-in-Education programs that allow professional artists to enrich the lives of area students.

Joining the Arts Council in presenting this show and outreach are co-sponsors Quality Plus Printing and Station B104.9 Real Country. You may purchase your tickets for $46 plus tax at the Arts Council office Mondays through Thursdays from 10-2:30. The address is 1040 8^th Street South, Suite 101, Wisconsin Rapids. If you prefer to call (715.424.2787), please do so during those hours or leave a message. You may also order tickets online anytime at www.SavorTheArts.org