SAU Student Frank Byers to Peform with Percy Sledge September 15

MAGNOLIA—Frank Byers, a Southern Arkansas University student and past participant in American Idol, is going to open for soul legend Percy Sledge in Springhill, Louisiana on September 15.
The show begins with Byers at 6 p.m. with Sledge following at 7 p.m. The show will take place at the Piney Woods Palace in Springhill.
Byers, of Waldo, Ark., is a senior majoring in general studies with an emphasis in theatre. He is also a captain of the cheerleading squad at SAU and is known for his extroverted personality on campus.
“I’m so excited and floored about this. It may be the biggest thing I’ve ever done,” he said.
Although Byers isn’t sure if he will get to spend much time with Sledge, best known for his first and greatest hit, “When a Man Loves a Woman,” the student is hopeful he will have the opportunity for some interaction.
“I want to talk to him about his love for music,” Byers said.
The musical talent of Byers was something noted last year by Dona Dildy, a member of the entertainment committee for the city of Springhill. Dildy was one of the three judges at a karaoke contest Byers took part in at the Cross Roads Lounge in Shongaloo, La. His performance in that contest ultimately led him to be asked to perform with Sledge.
“He just came in there and blew everyone away,” Dildy said. “He’s just got a good attitude. When he sings he exudes confidence and he has such a stage presence.”
Reserved seating for the show is $25 and general admission is $20. General admission tickets may be purchased at the door beginning at 5:30 p.m. Tickets may also be purchased from the Springhill City Hall in person or over the phone by calling Maggie Haskins at 870-539-5681. Credit card orders cost $2 more per ticket. Checks are also accepted and may be mailed to the City of Springhill, P.O. Box 398, Springhill, La. 71075.