Safehome benefit recruits Hunt

The soon-to-be-vacant Verizon Wireless Amphitheater in Bonner Springs is already in the throes of disassembly. But one final show there is intended to inspire some community harmony.

Lawrence’s Kelley Hunt will headline a benefit for Safehome, a shelter service dedicated to providing a healing atmosphere for victims of domestic violence.

“I have had direct experiences in my lifetime – although I am not personally a victim of domestic violence – with people very close to me who’ve suffered from domestic violence and various forms of domestic abuse,” Hunt says. “When I see an opportunity to make a difference on these issues, I try my best to take it.”

The acclaimed R&B performer will offer a sneak preview of her “new generation of music” honed this summer while playing festival gigs in Europe.

“I’m entering what I feel is a new part of my career,” she says. “(Expect to hear) a broader scope musically, some political points I’ve wanted to make, some pretty aggressive stuff – my own evolving synthesis of the traditional forms that are my natural influences as a writer and player with some contemporary ideas.”

Although Hunt and opener Drew6 will perform at Verizon’s VIP Pavilion, it literally will be the last show in the concert venue unless a new tenant is found.

“Sandstone/Verizon is something that seems like it has always been there. I’ve seen some great shows there: Tina Turner, Pat Metheny, Harry Connick. I can’t believe it’s just being abandoned – and maybe it won’t be. Maybe someone will pick up the lease. We’ll do our best to do the old shed right on its way out,” Hunt says.

The Safehouse benefit runs from 7 p.m.-11 p.m. today. Tickets are $30 in advance and $40 at the door, and also cover the cost of a buffet and drinks. Tickets can be purchased at www.safehome-ks.org.