The Levitt AMP Batesville Music Series returns to downtown Batesville on Thursday, May 7, kicking off a 10-week run of free live music. Main Street Batesville Executive Director Maggie Tipton discussed the 2026 lineup on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ and 1340 KBTA, highlighting a diverse range of genres and local talent. (Listen to their conversation below.)
The series opens with fan-favorite Ace Monroe, a rock-and-roll group that Tipton noted has received the most positive feedback from audiences over the last three years. The May schedule continues with Tulsa-based “rocky country” band Nether Hour on May 14, followed by the soulful blues of Nashville’s Colleen Orender on May 21. Local favorite Gary Rounds will open for Orender.
The month concludes on May 28 with Mexicuba Band, a six-piece Cuban band from Havana. Tipton teased a special “sneak peek” event for that evening, featuring a salsa dance class before the music begins.
“Our goal is always to partner our headliners with our local talent,” Tipton said, noting that all opening acts, including opening night’s Aurora the Band, are Arkansas-based.
The series is supported by the Levitt Foundation, the City of Batesville, First Community Bank, and Bad Boy Mowers. Concerts begin at 6 p.m. every Thursday through July 9 in the downtown entertainment district.
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Get up-to-date local and regional news/weather from the First Community Bank Newsroom on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ every weekday morning and afternoon. White River Now updates are also aired on weekday mornings on 93 KZLE, Outlaw 106.5, and Your FM 99.5. Catch CBS News around the top of every hour on 1340 KBTA.
