First look: State Fair concerts

More than any other concert series, the Indiana State Fair’s is influenced as much by the atmosphere as it is by the act. Catch a slight breeze on a warm-but-not-too-hot night after a loop around the Fair with friends or family and almost any performer can sound great. An act that knows how to catch and magnify the spirit of a Fair crowd can transcend. And one that doesn’t quite know how to engage those with funnel cake in their bellies and sweat on their T-shirts, well, those are the ones who get talked about all year.

Today, the Indiana State Fair folks will be announcing the first round of acts to be performing this summer. They include Keith Urban, Kelly Clarkson, MercyMe (with Lafayette native Jeremy Camp opening), Sandi Patty and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (nice to see the ISO players in the mix) and “Camp Rock” star Demi Lovato (for the Disney Channel crowd).

Also being announced: The inclusion of Indiana MusicFest, headlined by Jon McLaughlin and featuring The Elms and The Why Store.

This year’s Fair runs Aug. 7-23. And, for the record, it’s “The Year of Tomatoes.” Just remember: No throwing them at the stage.

Look for more information to be posted at www.indianastatefair.com.

Your thoughts (not only on these acts but also on the State Fair as a music venue)? Care to share your thoughts on concerts you’ve seen there in the past?