Keillor to perform in benefit concert for New England Public Radio

PRIME – March 2014 AMHERST, Mass. – On April 6, Garrison Keillor, the familiar voice of "A Prairie Home Companion," one of public radio's most enduring programs, will take to the stage in support of New England Public Radio's 50th Anniversary Capital Campaign. The benefit performance will take place at Chapin Auditorium on the campus of Mount Holyoke College, beginning at 7 p.m. The Odyssey Bookshop will provide a selection of Keillor's books for sale the evening of the show at Chapin Auditorium. This intimate evening offers the audience a chance to see a rare, non-broadcast show. With only a microphone, a stool, and his longtime collaborator, pianist Richard Dworsky (who leads The Guy's All-Star Shoe Band on "A Prairie Home Companion"), Keillor promises to delight the audience with his signature brand of storytelling and song. "We are thrilled that Mr. Keillor will join us for this special evening,"–Martin Miller, CEO and general manager of New England Public Radio, said. "'A Prairie Home Companion' has been a mainstay of our line-up for many years, and we look forward to enjoying this special night with listeners." The benefit concert is part of the station's 50th Anniversary Capital Campaign. Now in its final phase, the $7 million Campaign has as its centerpiece a new facility in downtown Springfield, as well as new broadcast technology, a program development fund, and endowments for facilities and classical and jazz programming. NEPR will occupy its new facility this coming summer. Nearly $4 million has been raised from individual gifts thus far, with an additional $1.2 million from local banks and businesses, foundations,–and the Five Colleges. Garrison Keillor has been the host and writer of "A Prairie Home Companion" since the program started production in 1974. He is also the author of more than two dozen books, including "Lake Wobegon Days," "Love Me," "Homegrown Democrat," and his latest, "O, What A Luxury." The doors at Chapin Auditorium open at 6 p.m. for the 7 p.m. show. Tickets, priced at $25, $55, $75 and $100 are available at NEPR.net, or by calling 413-545-0313 or 1-800-999-UMAS. Gold Circle tickets, priced at $100 per person, include a private reception with Mr. Keillor before the show at the home of Mount Holyoke College President, Lynn Pasquerella. Chapin Auditorium is wheelchair accessible and assistive listening devices available. Two weeks advance notice is necessary to process specific modifications or arrange for auxiliary aids (i.e. captioning or interpreters). For questions or to request accommodations, contact the production manager at 413-545-9717 or vcerillo@nepr.net. "A Prairie Home Companion" can be heard Saturday evenings at 6 p. m. on New England Public Radio, 88.5FM WFCR.