Spotlight Lexington transforms downtown

 

 

by Mary Duffy

The World Equestrian Games are bringing more than horses to Lexington.

Spotlight Lexington brings culture and world class entertainment, as well.

“For those who don’t know, the best way to describe it would be over 50 concerts over 17 days, on three stages, and it’s all free,” said Krista Greathouse, the Spotlight Lexington producer. “It’s a great atmosphere, it shows downtown Lexington in a whole new way with exposure to different types of art and culture.”

Spotlight Lexington takes place downtown from Sept. 24 to Oct. 10, and sponsors support it entirely.

The festivities began last Friday with a concert from country music singer Blake Shelton, along with a performance by Danny Gokey. Many acts are still to come: Laura Bell Bundy, The Swellers, Track 3 and The Jason Scott Band are just a few.

“We feature every genre of music, local or international, showing the outside our local talent,” Greathouse said.

Laura Bell Bundy will perform Friday night. Bundy is an actress, country music singer and a Lexington native. She was featured on Broadway for her roles in both Legally Blonde and Hairspray. Her first country music single, “Giddy On Up,” was released earlier this year with a western- themed music video. Bundy will be featured on the main stage, a massive 60-foot stage, in Courthouse Plaza at 8 p.m.

The Swellers, also from Lexington, will perform Friday.

“They are two different shows, but they’ll both be great,” Greathouse said.

Track 3, a rock band, will also be performing Friday night at 8 p.m. at Cheapside Park.

A Spotlight Lexington pin, which comes with discounts and prizes, is available for purchase. People wearing the pin   at opening day of Keeneland or every Wednesday or Thursday during the season, will receive free admission. The pin also offers discounts at 65 restaurants.

For those interested in Kentucky arts and crafts, Spotlight Lexington offers the Kentucky Market, located in Triangle Park. On Saturday the Hepcats Swing Dancing Club will perform “Swing on Main.”

The vendors downtown will provide food and Kentucky Proud products during Spotlight Lexington. For those 21 or older, alcohol is available.