A group of joke-tellin’, instrument-pickin’, story-sharin’, singin’ cowboys rode into St. George last night to kick off the 2015 Jubilee of Trees. The reputation throughout the West of this band of Wyoming drifters known as The Bar J Wranglers preceded them, a fact which was evident judging by attendance at the Dixie Convention Center concert. With word of their concert spreadin’ across town, they were able to round up a packed house with standing room only, demonstrating that The Bar J Wranglers’ brand of entertainment leaves an everlasting impression.
For over a decade, The Bar J Wranglers concert has served as the preview event to the Jubilee of Trees. The group, hailing from Jackson Hole, Wyo., includes members Scott Humphrey, Bryan Humphrey, Tim Hodgson, Donnie Cook, and Danny Rogers. They spend their summer season at their ranch entertaining guests with about 120 concerts, and they spend their “off-season” during the winter on the road performing another 100 shows a year. Their remarkable display of showmanship is custom-tailored to produce an authentic western show everyone enjoys. Each member brings a unique talent, voice, instrument, harmony, humor, and recitation.
“Bar J’s never disappoint,” said Glenna Beyer, Chief Development Officer with the Intermountain Foundation at Dixie Regional Medical Center. “It’s old school entertainment, not just singing and strumming but talented performers who can do a little bit of everything. It’s never a surprise that we sell out every year. The event is a community favorite and it’s a real treat to have their caliber of talent come to us.”
The event organizers, the venue, and the performance was nothing short of top-notch entertainment. The level of professionalism at every level produced a show able to rival anything in the region. It is not easy to fill a venue the size of the Dixie Convention Center. Concert goers varied in age from the 20s all the way through folks in their 80s. Being able to provide a show that entertains people from a span of six generations is not an easy undertaking. The Bar J Wranglers brand of timeless entertainment demonstrated their ability to bring generations together to share in a moment where all can find common ground.
“The concert is what brings everyone out, but we try to include as many fun extras as we can for the evening,” said Beyer. “This is everyone’s first chance to see the [Jubilee] trees and displays, and we have all the shops open after the concert so you can be the first to peruse all the holiday goods. There’s also an incredible chocolate fondue bar for everyone in attendance. They come for the cowboys. They stay for the chocolate.”
Some folks call it a western music show, some call it a stand-up comedy show with masterful cowboy music, and others call it the best musical experience in the West. Call it what you will, the fact remains that The Bar J Wranglers deliver some of the purest harmony, best musicianship, and funniest ranch humor ever seen on stage. As soon as the Bar J Wranglers take to the stage, guests leave behind their busy life and settle into a time long ago—a time of the singing cowboy.
The Jubilee of Trees continues through Monday, Nov. 23, with events each day. This year’s theme is “When Seconds Count” and is focused on advancing trauma care and neurosciences in southern Utah. For tickets and information see DixieRegional.org/JubileeofTrees or call (435) 251-2480.
Jubilee of Trees 2015 Event Schedule:
Daily, Nov. 19-23:
General Admission to view trees and shops 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (closes at 4 p.m. on Friday)
Wednesday, Nov. 18
Bar J Wranglers in concert–7 p.m.–$25
Thursday, Nov. 19
St. George Area Chamber of Commerce Luncheon–Noon–$15
Friday, Nov. 20
Jubilee Gala Dinner and Auction–6 p.m.–$150
Saturday, Nov. 21
Teddy Bear Picnic–Noon–$15
Previously Loved Trees–Auction begins at 3 p.m.
“Jubilee in Concert” A Night of Utah Stars–6 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 22
Continuous Holiday Entertainment
Monday, Nov. 23
Fashion Show Luncheon–Noon–$25
Family Fun Night–4-8 p.m.
Diamond Talent–6-8 p.m.
Tree Silent Auction closes–7 p.m.
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I wasn’t sure what to expect not generally being a huge country fan, but the Bar J Wangler’s put on a great show. Hugely talented and funn! What more could you ask for?
I would definitely see them again.
I wasn’t sure what to expect not generally being a huge country fan, but the Bar J Wangler’s put on a great show. Hugely talented and funny! What more could you ask for?
I would definitely see them again.