The Austin Area Commission for the Arts is offering two fantastic events this week at the Historic Paramount Theatre for those who didn’t get enough country music at the Mower County Fair.

Wednesday, the Paramount features Bluegrass and BBQ with Monroe Crossing and Piggy Blues BBQ.

Monroe Crossing is an electrifying blend of classic bluegrass, bluegrass gospel, and heartfelt originals.

For those wondering how the band came up with the name, according to the band’s website monroecrossing.com, Monroe Crossing is named in honor of Bill Monroe, “The Father of Bluegrass Music.” The band members’ paths crossed through the music of Bill Monroe so they like to say they had a “Monroe Crossing.”

Not a bluegrass fan? The band plays frequently for non-bluegrass audiences, and according to members, audiences often comment that they’d never really liked bluegrass music until they attended a Monroe Crossing concert.

Food will be served starting at 6 p.m. at the Paramount, and the show will begin at 7:30 p.m. Patrons are welcome to join us for both dinner and show or just the show.

Tickets for both are $20 in advance and $25 at the door, and tickets to the concert only are $12 in advance, $14 at the door, and student tickets are $5.

After a night of bluegrass, we will bring country music to the stage with Young Johnny Cash Sean Benz at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday.

A local favorite, Sean performs all of Johnny’s classic hits, as well as a smattering of other classic songs.

Cash fans are sure to be pleasantly surprised by Sean’s sound and musicianship.

Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door, and student tickets are $5. Tickets for both events can be purchased online at paramounttheatre.org or by calling 434-0934.