RiverDogs to Host Auditions to Sing National Anthem on March 10

Three celebrity judges to assist in the selection process

CHARLESTON, SC – Darius Rucker. Elise Testone. Mark Bryan. Eddie Bush. What do these four artists have in common?

They’ve all performed the National Anthem in front of thousands at a Charleston RiverDogs game. This season, the RiverDogs are offering you the opportunity to do the same, and join the ranks of these famous voices, by performing the Star-Spangled Banner prior to a game at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park during the 2015 season.

The Class-A affiliate of the New York Yankees will host auditions for those wishing to perform the Star-Spangled Banner on Tuesday, March 10, from 4-7 pm, behind home plate at The Joe. If inclement weather persists, the rain date for the auditions is slated for Thursday, March 12.

Whether you are a talented vocalist or can play the Star-Spangled Banner via instrument, patrons are invited to be creative yet respectful and perform our National Anthem in whatever fashion they choose.

For the first time, the RiverDogs have solicited the assistance of three local radio personalities to serve as celebrity judges at the audition. Charlie James from WTMA, Sparkle from 95SX and Bill West of Nash FM 96.9 will help with the selection of the singers and performers.

"This is one of our more popular events of our off-season, and reminds us that the baseball season is fast approaching," said RiverDogs General Manager Dave Echols. "Our National Anthem tryouts always draw a large number of talented individuals and groups. Having the three celebrity guest judges on hand adds a special and exciting element this year. Maybe we’ll discover the next superstar right here in Charleston."

Auditions are open to performers of all kinds and ensembles of nine or less. Groups of 10 or more are asked to partake in the RiverDogs Group Anthem Program at www.riverdogs.com.

Everyone is asked to audition regardless of whether they have performed at a game in previous seasons or not. Those auditioning must fill out an audition form that can be found at www.riverdogs.com. Forms must be filled out and submitted to communityrelations@riverdogs.com prior to the audition day.

Please note that by auditioning, it does not guarantee a spot and also being chosen for the Audition Pool does not guarantee a game due to the overwhelming popularity and strength of performers in the area. In the past, the RiverDogs have routinely had more qualified performers than available game dates.

For additional information on the auditions, please contact Haley Kirchner at (843)723-7241 or at communityrelations@riverdogs.com.

The RiverDogs, the Class A affiliate of the New York Yankees, begin their season on April 9 with a seven-game homestand that features the Lexington Legends (April 9-12) and the Augusta GreenJackets (April 13-15). Ticket information may be secured by contact the box office at 843/577-DOGS (3647) or online at www.riverdogs.com. If you can’t make the games, remember that RiverDogs baseball can be heard throughout the season on the flagship radio home, WTMA 1250AM.