by Theresa Dalton
“The Stand's primary mission is to provide high
quality family friendly live performances for less
than it would cost to go to a movie or a sporting
event!”
So it states on The Stand's website, and so we
checked it out the evening of September 25th, as
the very first in a series of scheduled
performances began. We had been invited to be the
guests of a dear friend, to drive out to Oxford,
Michigan (just 8 miles north of The Palace of
Auburn Hills and 2 miles west of M-24) to
experience the musical stylings of Doyle Dykes
(with Bob Holt opening for him).
This brand new venue can seat 500+, and from
entering the parking lot, the care taken with
staffing and organization was apparent. Friendly
and capable folks, wearing black “The Stand”
t-shirts and lanyards were stationed strategically
around the venue to direct and assist the steady
stream of attendees making their way into the
concert hall.
At this inaugural concert for the Stand, the
opening act for the headliner was Bob Holt, a
“folk-rock legend,” stated the ticket. For
many in attendance, this was an accurate
description. Pastor Bob Holt, Senior Pastor at
Christ the King Church, (the location of this
venue) is well known and loved by many in this
geographical area. Known as a talented
singer/songwriter and pastor, Bob began his
evangelistic ministry in Michigan 30+ years ago
sharing inspiring songs on guitar, singing with
his Chris Christofferson-like voice. Bob's set
included original songs and covers, interspersed
with humorous anecdotes, obviously a real crowd
pleaser. As a warm-up for the “main event” it
more than filled the bill.
The emcee, Bill Peterson, also hit just the right
note as he introduced the headliner, touching on
some of Dyke's background, whetting our appetite
for what was to come. I have to admit my
ignorance; I was unfamiliar with this guitarist,
Doyle Dykes. I didn't know what to expect. Boy,
was I in for a surprise. From the very first
notes, it was apparent that this was no ordinary
guitar strummer. “Doyle Dykes is a guitar legend
in the making. Although influenced by a wide
variety of musical styles and musicians from the
country of Chet Atkins to the rock and roll of
Duane Eddy and the Beatles, Doyle has developed a
distinct, recognizable sound that amazes audiences
with skill, while capturing hearts with sincerity
and soul.” (from online bio) The audience
settled in for an incredible evening of just that,
truly amazing virtuoso performance, though at
times it seemed as if Dykes must have a whole
variety of instrumentalists backing him up; but
no, it was just Doyle Dykes creating more music
from one guitar than should be legal!
His sets included good old down-home “Grand
Olde Opry” “pickin' 'n' grinnin'”, honed in
the years he played with Grandpa Jones, his own
gorgeous rendition of The Lord's Prayer, and
several original compositions (especially
poignant was the song White Rose for Heidi, and
the story he told of its inspiration).
Dykes' warm and natural stage presence was
obvious, and effectively connected to the audience
to remind all present that this was indeed a human
being like themselves, in addition to being an
incredible talent. As the concert concluded, Dykes
graciously returned to the stage for a what
sounded like a unanimously requested encore.
The lighting and sound technicians this night
need a shout out; execution was flawless. Doyle
himself later said this was one of the best venues
he has played; on-stage talent, physical facility,
crew and audience all worked together to make it
an unforgettable opening volley for The Stand. I
came away a true Doyle Dykes fan!
The coming months will bring several more great
events to The Stand. The price of tickets ($11.00
online; $16.50 at the door) we thought more than
reasonable, especially after we had experienced
for ourselves the caliber of this evening's
entertainment. Check out their website, mark your
calendar, and enjoy one or more of The Stand's
upcoming "quality family-friendly live
performances". And bring the family!
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