By Zandra Wolfgram
The stage is set, the guitars are tuned, and we’re adding a little extra soul to spring in Destin. Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation is thrilled to announce a just-added performance to its Concerts in the Village series — the internationally acclaimed blues-rock artist Kara Grainger will perform Thursday, May 8, at the Dugas Pavilion.
Replacing the previously scheduled Dear Amy: Amy Winehouse Tribute, this soulful new addition brings a world-class performer to our local stage. Born in Sydney, Australia, and now based in Nashville, Grainger has captivated audiences around the world with her unique fusion of blues, roots, and slide guitar. She’s toured across Japan, India, Europe, and the U.S., opened for legends like Peter Frampton, Buddy Guy, and Johnny Lang, and even shared the stage with members of Def Leppard and Alan Parsons.
Grainger’s latest album Grand and Green River reached No. 2 on the Roots Music Report’s blues chart, and her song Secret Soul earned Best Song at the Independent Acoustic Music Awards. Known for her emotionally rich lyrics, expressive guitar work, and raw, soulful voice, she delivers the kind of concert that stays with you long after the final note.
🎶 Show Details:
- Thursday, May 8
- Dugas Pavilion in Destin
- Gates open at 6 p.m. | Show starts at 7 p.m.
- Tickets: $35 in advance (+ ticketing fee)
- Food Trucks: Spork, Raman Filipino, and Dippin’ Dots
- Raffle Drawing: 2 for $5, 5 for $10, or 10 for $20 — each prize valued at $50 or more!
Bring a blanket or low-back chair, enjoy dinner al fresco from local food trucks, and soak in a starry night of music and good vibes. The Concerts in the Village series is Destin’s longest-running outdoor concert tradition and supports MKAF’s year-round arts education initiatives through ArtsReach—giving art access to K–12 students, individuals with special needs, military service members and veterans across Northwest Florida.
MKAF Members get free concert admission and early entry. Best of all? Membership is valid for one year from your sign-up date. So, join anytime and enjoy the music all year long.
Tickets and memberships available now at MKAF.org
