Todd Prickett, co-owner of The Barn at Paradise Station, has specific criteria that talent appearing at the venue must meet. "Our main focus is not on the quantity of our shows, but quality," stated Todd, who noted that an act's material should be suitable for all family members. 

When Todd first heard of Christian recording artist Chris August, he researched the musician and discovered a 10-day tour called "Acoustic Storytime," in which August is featured with fellow artists Rachael Lampa and Jason Gray. The timing appeared to be perfect for The Barn. "We booked it," stated Todd.

In celebration of "Christ and Country," Acoustic Storytime will play on stage at The Barn, 312 Paradise Lane, Ronks, on Thursday, Sept. 11, at 7 p.m. Gray, who will host the event, is a Christian musician known for his emotionally resonant songs and introspective style.

August is originally from Garland, Texas. He became a Christian as a teenager and released his first contemporary Christian album in 2010. A Dove award winner who has toured with Point of Grace, August made a decision in 2018 to tour less and write more, offering his original compositions to fellow artists to record. 

Lampa has been exercising her "powerhouse" vocals for the Lord in the music industry since she was a teenager. She is the recipient of a Dove award for her song "Blessed" and one of the founders of People Loving Nashville, a nonprofit that reaches out to individuals experiencing homelessness and incarceration. On March 21, World Down Syndrome Day, Lampa released "Superpowers," a song about her two-year-old son, Leo, who has Down syndrome. 

The Barn co-owner Kat Prickett noted that the venue looks for "original and unique content" that is "uplifting and blesses the soul." The Prickett family especially relates to Lampa's journey. "Our five-year-old nephew (Todd's grandson) has Down syndrome, and it has blessed our family in ways we never expected," shared Kat. "We know that he was created for a purpose and that he will impact everyone he comes in contact with."

"Acoustic Storytime" is unusual in that it features national artists in an intimate setting. "The personal and close connection of the audience to the artists will give a one-of-a-kind experience that is hard to find anywhere else," pointed out Kat, who added that the musicians will share "personal stories, struggles,and inspirations." "Usually concerts have audiences of thousands," noted Kat. "Our venue will be about 200. (Audience members) will feel like (they) are part of the experience ... we want to provide a memorable and meaningful experience." 

More information about the event may be found at www.barnatparadisestation.com or by calling 717-687-5000, ext. 118.