After more than 70 years in existence, the Brownwood Community Concert Association hosted their final performance Tuesday night at Victory Life Church. The group welcomed twin sisters, Katy and Penny Clark, the Purple Hulls, who performed country and bluegrass style gospel for a crowd of about 100 people.
The Brownwood CCA is one of thousands of other similar associations across the country. Production Manager JoAnn Manigold discussed the history of community concert association. “They came about during the depression and the war because people during that time were wanting entertainment that didn’t cost much.” Requiring payment prior to the concert season ensured artists would be able to perform. “Taking money beforehand allowed artists and other acts to be paid,” Manigold said.Manigold explained the groups have undergone several transformations during their long history. “A company in New York took over the whole thing,” Manigold said. “They were like booking agents, but didn’t want to be called that.” Many of the associations eventually fell under the “Live on Stage” umbrella, a company based out of Nashville who took sole responsibility for booking artists. Other associations connected with other similar companies.
Manigold said showcases are held by each association to determine what acts will perform during the concert season, which for most associations, begins in September. “All of the artists come and they get 15 minutes on stage to show you what they can do. For two days, we sit and listen to people.” Manigold said Tuesday night’s final performance was heartbreaking for many members of the Brownwood organization. “For most of us who have been part of it for what seems like forever, it is pretty devastating because it was so helpful at a time when people needed it.”
Manigold said dwindling membership played a part in the decision to disband the local organization. A group that once boasted 500 members three years ago has declined to 119 members. “Most of our members have passed away or are in nursing homes and cannot drive at night.” Sports and technology have also played a part in declining numbers, Manigold said. “We have not been able to engage a younger crowd. A big part of the population today is more interested in sports and today, anyone can get their entertainment instantly.”
The collective opinion of the group is that entertainment provided was needed and offered to many who may not have experienced it otherwise. “I think the most important thing is that we have brought live entertainment to people who may not have seen it outside of the local high schools, colleges and the Lyric Theatre,” Manigold said. “They are all putting on really good shows and that is also very difficult to compete with.”
The group plans to host one final meeting before disbanding the local organization.
