Morganton Historic Festival Q&A

A Q&A with Sharon Jablonski, director of Main Street and producer of the annual Historic Morganton Festival

By Cheryl m. Shuffler
Published: August 30, 2008

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Q Is this the first year Christian musicians have performed on the City Stage on opening night? Were any churches or religious leaders behind that or have folks requested it?
A Yes, this is the first year we have had Christian music at this level. There was no one behind it. I try to put music on City Stage that is popular and that will appeal to our market. I know country is popular, but I always struggle to find the music for Friday night. When looking at what's selling at the arenas, what's packing the house, Christian rock was literally rockin' the house. If this proves to be as big a hit with our community and the surrounding area as I think, then I will try to obtain an even larger name in the business like Mercy Me or Casting Crowns for 2009.

Q What music group excites you the most?
A Me personally I am a blues and jazz nut. I rely heavily on my friends who know the country market and of course I read a lot about the music industry and what's happening and who's out there putting on a good show and has some hit records.

Q Does Craig Morgan rank up there with other big names you've brought to the festival?
A Well, when you are in the top 20 overall list of top country artists I figure you can't rank too far behind the others we have had. The challenge is finding the right mix of young country who has had enough hits that the majority of people know them.

Q Anything new or different this year that really stands out?
A I am very pleased that after a slow start I can say we are going to have a great arts and craft show. We have over 200 arts and crafts booths for people to shop and enjoy. I also have to say I am pretty intrigued by the Model A Hill Climb.

Q Who designed the logo this year? How did they come up with it?
A Joshua Harris (city public information officer) and Michael Berley (city project designer) designed the logo. It reminds me of a rock and roll concert shirt. I was worried about it at first and the colors they choose for the poster I thought were psychedelic, but they told me I was showing my age. They proved to be right. T-shirts are selling fast and you sure can't miss the poster.

Q How long have you been planning for this festival? When do you start planning for next year?
A We start in December with the applications being mailed. From there it's sponsorship attainment and the challenge to find the next great (affordable) national music act for City Stage. Planning is year-round. I would be remiss if I did not say that the success of this festival is due to the incredible sponsors and partnerships we have. I have sponsors who not only give money, but they create partnerships between themselves to help market the event regionally. I have relationships with business and local industry that have allowed this festival to offer incredible entertainment for free in an atmosphere that everyone can enjoy. I sincerely hope people thank these folks when they see their leaders. This is truly a great community.