Contributed by Natalie Stachon, Meg Jenkins Locke, and Bill Bost
The Crossing at Hollar Mill will be the new home for Acoustic Stage. Focusing primarily on acoustic music by national acts and music that has its roots in folk, bluegrass, jazz and blues, Acoustic Stage will now present all of its concerts in one of NC’s most unique historical concert halls. Located in a once bustling hosiery mill at 883 Highland Avenue SE in southeast Hickory NC, the space boasts elegant high-ceilings, mill-era steel sash windows and beautiful hardwood floors.
“We are excited this beautiful and historic space will be our new home. Moving to The Crossing at Hollar Mill will give our patrons the opportunity to experience our concerts in a beautiful setting that is appropriate for the kind of music we present,” said Bill Bost of Acoustic Stage. “We strive to put on special, one of a kind concerts with music that is meant to be listened to. Though it is larger than our previous venues, the Firemen’s Kitchen and our more recent location on First Avenue, we continue to be devoted to providing an intimate listening experience for our concert-goers.” The Crossing is committed to a quality listening experience as well. Recent improvements to the venue include special acoustically enhanced wood treatments across the back wall and acoustic stage curtains.
“Moving to The Crossing at Hollar Mill means those attending our concerts will have the opportunity to have a full evening out in one place. With a full service bar, two restaurants, including the award winning Highland Avenue Restaurant and the American Honor Ale House, it will simplify and enhance the experience for our patrons, many of whom come in from out of town”, Bost said. There is also easy access to nearby hotels and Interstate 40.
The Crossing’s own Music In The Mill series (www.musicinthemill.com) and Acoustic Stage at The Crossing at Hollar Mill (www.acousticstage.co) will coexist, using the same space providing Hickory and western North Carolina a variety of live music options. The Music In The Mill series is ongoing and Acoustic Stage plans to begin its concerts in September.
The Crossing at Hollar Mill, owned by the Locke family, is Hickory’s premiere 10,000-square-foot full-service rental venue and concert hall. The businesses were founded with a focus on our vendors and purveyors; those who work with us and for us; and our guests who honor us with their patronage. Our commitment to extreme hospitality invites guests to return time and again. The Locke family is committed to preserving Hickory’s history and honoring it with sustainable and thoughtful development.
Since 1992 Acoustic Stage has presented live musical performances with the support of our members and sponsors. Our mission is to create and foster an appreciation for roots music featuring internationally known musicians. Past performers include Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, Bela Fleck, Richie Havens, Tony Rice, Doc Watson, and many others. Acoustic Stage is excited about our future at The Crossing and our new partnership with the Locke family and their commitment to Hickory.
For more information about tickets to Acoustic Stage concerts, visit www.acousticstage.co.