Photo courtesy of Erin Gilmore
Saddling Up
Wood-carving demonstrations, BalletMet and more scheduled for New Albany Classic
Everything patrons of the New Albany Classic Invitational Grand Prix & Family Day have grown to know and love will be back when the event rolls around this year – plus a little extra.
The Classic draws thousands for a day full of family activities, a chance to see some of the nation’s most prolific musicians and, of course, an invitational grand prix that the North American Riders Group named the top specialty equestrian event in the nation.
This year’s event, scheduled for Sept. 20, will be the 18th.
“This year, we thought it would be fun to do a little twist on the interactive art,” says Event Director Stephanie Lorenz.
One new addition: chainsaw artists from Appalachian Arts Studio, based in Pennsylvania. Lorenz says the Classic reached out to this studio in particular because of its worldwide recognition.
“They are going to be carving the entire day,” Lorenz says, adding the wood carving will be equine-themed. Abigail Wexner will donate the pieces to her charities.
Two stages, one for Concert at the Classic and the other reserved for additional performances, will be part of the proceedings. BalletMet and Columbus Children’s Theatre are scheduled to perform throughout the day, Lorenz says.
This will be BalletMet’s debut at the Classic. The company is expected to perform excerpts of shows such as Alice in Wonderland.
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and Royal Arts Fencing Academy will also use the stage. The fencing academy’s presentation will be Jedi-themed and set to music from the Star Wars franchise.
“That’s going to be a really fun new addition,” Lorenz says.
Photo courtesy of Appalachian Arts Studio
Saddling Up
Of course, no Classic would be complete without a star-studded concert. In previous years, performers such as Ariana Grande, Demi Lovato and Fifth Harmony have graced the Classic stage. Lorenz says this year’s music guests will certainly impress.
“We know it’s going to be huge – bigger than last year,” she says.
With more than 18,000 people having attended last year’s Classic, Lorenz says a sell-out is expected. The event is also broadcast in 10 countries through a platform for live web feeds.
“We have enthusiasts from around the world,” Lorenz says. “What’s most exciting for us as well is this is one of the only sports where … men and women compete at the same level, and (it’s also important that) kids are being exposed to an Olympic sport.”
The Classic is the primary fundraiser for the Center for Family Safety and Healing. The nonprofit, based in Columbus, addresses family violence in all of its forms.
“Mrs. Wexner has raised over $25 million with a one-day event,” Lorenz says. “That would not have happened without the community wrapping its arms around us.”
Tickets can be purchased at www.newalbanyclassic.com, the Philip Heit Center for Healthy New Albany, CAPA and Ticketmaster.
Hannah Bealer is an assistant editor. Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com.
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