Following the sell-out success of last year’s “Ed Sullivan Show,” today the Salisbury Symphony announces its 2017 fundraising production “A ’Bury Home Companion,” which will take place on Saturday, Aug. 26 at 8 p.m. at the Meroney Theatre.

Inspired by Garrison Keillor’s longtime NPR radio staple “A Prairie Home Companion,” the Salisbury Symphony’s production will spotlight the gentle side of life here in “The ’Bury.”

Presented as a live radio show, it is full of the gentle wit … part fact, part fantasy, part Lake Woebegone with maybe a little dash of Mayberry — but always true to the unique charm of our own town.

Developed and scripted by The ’Bury’s own Kent Bernhardt, the show will feature a host of familiar faces performing as the ’Bury Home Companion Radio Players and Singers who will bring life to live radio ads and comedy sketches with characters like “Guy Noir,” who has now taken up residence in Salisbury in his search for truth. There’s WBTV’s David Whisenant as The ’Bury’s official announcer, and even a “Sound Effects Guy” who will add seasoning to our live radio presentation.

“A ’Bury Home Companion” will also spotlight musical talent from the region, from bluegrass to — believe it or not — opera. The ’Bury has it all.

Audience members will have a chance to be a part of the show by purchasing “shout outs” to be given onstage throughout the show, improvised by Kent and team. If you have someone to celebrate, someone to roast, or an announcement of public interest, for a small price you can have our talented performers do it from the stage! Spaces are limited, first come first served.

Kent Bernhardt, author and star, says: “It’s such a pleasure to team up with such outstanding performing artists in the region to present this gentle slice of Americana. My hope is this show will not only entertain us, but remind us of all we hold dear in our community and our families.”

James Dane Harvey, executive director of the Salisbury Symphony, says: “We are lucky to have such talents coming together to help us raise money for the Salisbury Symphony. When you purchase a ticket to “A ’Bury Home Companion” you are not only in for a great night of entertainment, you are also supporting the Salisbury Symphony in its efforts to bring a quality musical experience to everyone in the region.”

The production is presented by Catawba College, sponsored by Livingstone College and Wallace & Graham, with additional financial support from Patterson Farms Inc. and Chamberlain Exterminators.

All money raised goes directly to the Salisbury Symphony to help the organization bring quality music and music education programs to Salisbury and the entire region.

Tickets are $45. The event is general admission. For more information visit www.salisburysymphony.org or call 704-637-4314.