Stage Near Completion for Greenbrier Classic Concert Series - Beckley, Bluefield & Lewisburg News, Weather, Sports

After a year of planning and three weeks of building a 120 ton stage, the Greenbrier Classic Concert Series is just one day away from welcoming 35,000 to 50,000 people. 

Setting up the stage for the Greenbrier Classic Concert Series is no easy task.

550 people have been at the Fairlea site over the last three weeks to make sure opening night is ready to go on the Fourth of July.

"It takes about a year of planning to put together all the engineering and the technical requirements for a show like this and then we have to work with the artist to find out what their technical requirements are," said Gary Bowman, Greenbrier Classic Concert Series Producer.

Safety is the top priority, and Friday's harsh storm put the stage's structure to the test.

Although the stage was not completely finished Friday, the structure withstood powerful wind gusts.

The initial planning begins with an engineer report of the roof structure, which then leads to a high wind plan and ultimately, an evacuation plan.

"When the high wind plan is developed then I know at what miles per hour I need to be concerned and what we're going to do to prevent any kind of crisis occurring. We can't control the weather, but we can control our response to the weather," said Bowman.

Evacuation plans include buildings at the state fairgrounds which are across the street from the concert site.

After the safety plans are in place, the producer can arrange the set up of the field for concert goers.

"We've provided some additional video screens. We have rearranged some of the restrooms, some of the concession tents and walkways to make it more convenient. We have enhanced our handicap entrance and facilities as well," said Bowman.

Another new addition this year is the expanded lawn seating.

The barricade is now much closer to the stage than it has been the last two years.

With big name artists and holiday traffic, Greenbrier employees are urging people to arrive at the concert early.

"On concert nights the ticket office opens at 3:30 p.m. and the gates open at 4 p.m. It would be great for everyone to come out early. There's food, beverages, and they can stake their claim on the lawn for a great seat," said Emily Haas with the Greenbrier Entertainment Department.

The concert series kicks off Wednesday night with Toby Keith and Lionel Richie.