April 10, 2013
Sixth annual Harry Potter-inspired benefit concert Saturday, April 13
Fans of Harry Potter, music and reading are invited to the Hallows and Horcruxes Ball 6: A Wizard Rock Concert for Literacy.
Inspired by J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series, the concert is from 7-11:30 p.m. Saturday, April 13, in the K-State Alumni Center. Doors will open at 6 p.m.
This year's performers include Alex Carpenter, Ministry of Magic, Tonks and the Aurors, Lauren Fairweather, Justin Finch-Fletchley and the Sugar Quills, The Whomping Willows, and Seen and Unforeseen.
"Even though the Harry Potter series has ended, wizard rock remains a popular way for fans to express their love for the world Rowling has created," said Karin Westman, head of the K-State department of English. "Wizard rock celebrates reading, but it also celebrates the themes of Rowling's series, which include the importance of community, literacy and social justice."
The wizard rock movement has raised tens of thousands of dollars for charity through its recordings and performances, Westman said.
Saturday's concert benefits FirstBook, a nonprofit organization that provides disadvantaged children with books, with funds once again targeting the local FirstBook advisory board of Geary County. Westman said last year's event raised $1,500 for the cause.
"The English department is happy to join with other organizations on campus to support this event," she said.
Event sponsors include K-State's Harry Potter Alliance, the Children's and Adolescent Literature Community, the department of English, the Student Governing Association, the Union Program Council, the LGBT Resource Center, and the Manhattan Music Coalition.
Tickets to the Hallows and Horcruxes Ball are free to K-State students with a valid ID and $12 for the general public. Tickets are available from the department of English, Room 108, during business hours or by ordering online at http://www.k-state.edu/chalc/HHBall.html.