‘50s and ’60s rock-and-roll tribute band to perform at Grange Fair grandstand stage

The Centre County Grange Encampment and Fair has made another announcement about a grandstand performer for this summer, this time with a rock-and-roll flavor.

Fair organizers announced on their Facebook page that The Van Dells will perform on Aug. 22.

The Van Dells are a tribute band dedicated to keeping ‘50s and ‘60s rock-and-roll alive and have been playing shows since their formation in 1974, according to the band’s website. Since then the group has been touring concert venues across the country.

The three star men, Stacy Todd, Mark Barnett and Steve Ricks, each bring a different character and dimension to the show.

Todd, known as “The Duke,” is the “no nonsense, tough guy,” of the group, according to the band’s website — he keeps the other members in line.

Barnett is known as the nerdy comedian of the group. During performances, Barnett’s main goal is to put a smile on Todd’s face.

Ricks is the “jock” of the group. Usually, mid-performance, Ricks take on the role of Elvis Presley, performing some of the most well-known hits from “The King.”

Clad in red varsity jackets donning the letter “V” for “Van Dells,” the three stars perform a wide array of songs from Motown hits to doo-wop classics. They are also backed up by a full, five-man band.

Last week, fair organizers announced that blue-collar ‘90s country star Aaron Tippin would perform on Aug. 19. Organizers plan to make more performer announcements every Thursday on Facebook.

Grandstand shows are free, but admission to the fair is required.

In years past, the fair has hosted performers like Kenny Chesney, Miranda Lambert, Morgan Wallen, Garth Brooks and many more of country music’s biggest stars of both the past and present.

The 2024 Grange Fair will be held Aug. 16-24. For more information, visit the fair’s website.