PERFORMERS
Countless Music Experiences
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80 Proof Alice Hays, KS
Hailing from Hays, Kansas, 80 Proof Alice is a high-energy trio that artfully fuses various musical influences to create their unique bluegrass sound. They have been making waves across the state, appearing on numerous Midwest festival lineups. The group features Tyson Lesage, whose dynamic flatpicking brings a spirited energy to their performances, and the 2022 Kansas State Banjo Champion, Jason Riegel, whose melodic banjo riffs add depth and texture to their music. Completing the ensemble is Aimee Riegel, whose steady bass lines provide a solid foundation, enriched by her soulful vocals and harmonious melodies that resonate with emotion.
Acme Fife & Drum Salina, KS
Authentic fife and drum music from the American Revolution, the Civil War, adaptations of Irish, Scottish, English folk tunes, and modern rudimental-style field drumming greet you at the Events Center Bridge and throughout the Festival.
Alfonso Vela y Los Alfas Del Norte Kansas City, MO
Alfonso Vela y Los Alfas Del Norte is a Música Norteña band based in Kansas City, MO. The name translates to Alfonso Vela and the Alphas of the North. Música Norteña ensembles feature the accordion, bajo sexto, electric bass, and drums.
Audrey LeCrone New Orleans, LA
Cheeky, sultry jazz performed in a captivating act that evokes the edgy energy of a speakeasy lounge. Audrey LeCrone brings the heat to century-old jazz and blues tunes.
BreAnne Stone Hastings, NE
BreAnne Stone is a singer-songwriter creating soulful, honest music rooted in connection and presence.
I write music from a place of magic — the space between our inner world and the world we cannot see, but deeply feel. If you’ve had the opportunity to hear me play, you know exactly what I mean. I write music for our souls to feel.
Music has been the backbone of my emotional world since I was a child. Like many musicians, it’s how I process, how I learned to feel, and how I make sense of the world around me. Now, it’s a gift I choose to share with those who resonate with it.
Thank you for being here. You’re welcome to stay as long as you’d like — listen, love, share, be free.
All my love, BreAnne
Cash Hollistah & Friends Salina, KS
Cash Hollistah returns to the River Festival with his innovative “SHRF Mixtape”: a genre-bending musical mixtape, performed live on stage – in one take – collaborating with notable artists from Salina and the surrounding areas. This year’s special guests include Tony Bowell (of Sunset Sinners), Rich Thompson (of Bootleg Mercy), Dee Eazy, Jon’nea Soul, and more! Hollistah is a national hip-hop recording artist, musician, spoken word poet, arts educator, and community activist based in Salina. Hollistah’s live performances have earned him spots on high-profile stages, notably South by Southwest (SXSW), and billing with acts such as Common, Shaggy, Kirk Franklin, and Vince Staples. Currently, Hollistah sits on the board of directors of the Kansas Music Hall of Fame.
Clan Tynker Santa Fe, NM
Clan Tynker is a troupe of brothers and sisters who perform a stunning array of talents in a fanciful “Vaudeville” style of Circus. Their all-ages show presents an amazing menagerie of entertainment from “around the world” set to an exciting live musical soundscape.
Construction Junction Lawrence, KS
City PlayCorps is a non-profit group of trained advocates for children growing through play based in Lawrence, KS. Their Pop Up Playground provides an opportunity for child-directed play where kids get to problem solve, explore, and build using a variety of materials. While adults are around to facilitate and provide a helping hand, the child gets a chance to take the lead!
Children get to figure out things for themselves, find innovative ways to overcome obstacles, practice working with others, and have fun getting to pursue their own creative ideas. Imagine, Create, & Play!
Diamond Rio Nashville, TN
FRIDAY HEADLINER
Known for making timeless country music for over thirty years, Diamond Rio recently announced new music and band member changes. “The Kick,” the highly anticipated track not only showcases the Grammy award-winning band’s talents, but also signifies a new chapter in their distinguished career with the introduction of two new bandmates. The formation that became known as the six-time Vocal Group of the Year, Diamond Rio, was formed in 1989 and consisted of Marty Roe (lead vocals), Jimmy Olander (guitar/banjo), Dana Williams (bass/vocals), Dan Truman (piano), Brian Prout (drums), and Gene Johnson (mandolin/vocals), and up until recently have had no member changes. After a remarkable 33-year journey, the band bid farewell to retiring members, Brian Prout and Gene Johnson, and welcomes new bandmates, Carson McKee (fiddle/harmony vocals) and Micah Schweinsberg (drums).
Diamond Rio first signed with Arista Nashville in 1990, and in 1991, with the release of “Meet in The Middle,” became the first country music group in history to reach No. 1 with a debut single. The band is also known for their multi-week chart-topper “How Your Love Makes Me Feel,” crossover hit “One More Day,” as well as timeless hits “Beautiful Mess,” “Unbelievable,” “I Believe,” and many more. Selling more than 6.8 million albums and surpassing over 1.05 billion global streams, Diamond Rio has charted 20 Top 10 singles, 15 Top 5 singles, and 7 No. 1 singles.
Dinosaur O’Dell & Kadesh Flow Kansas City, MO
Dinosaur O’Dell and Kadesh Flow combine music, storytelling, science, and hip-hop into interesting, fun and educational children’s performances. Whether they are exploring planets, swimming with piranhas or transporting back in time to learn about dinosaurs, their shows turn big ideas into interactive adventures. With songs, stories, movement, and humor, Dino and Kadesh keep young audiences engaged and bring learning to life.
Dinosaur O’Dell is a guitarist, storyteller and former elementary and preschool music teacher. He was the recipient of the 2014 Lighton Prize for Teaching Artist Excellence, worked with arts organizations across the country, and opened for children’s performers including 123 Andrés, The Okee Dokee Brothers, and Bill Harley.
Kadesh Flow is a Billboard-charting rapper, trombonist, and MBA who brings a powerful mix of hip-hop, musicianship, and imagination to the stage. He has performed with artists ranging from Jidenna to Tech N9ne and collaborates as a children’s artist with artists such as Dinosaur O’Dell and Mega Ran.
Don Wagner & Friends Salina, KS
SUNDAY HEADLINER AT STAGE II
With roots in bluegrass and Americana, Don’s music captures the spirit of the heartland! Local artist, Don Wagner & Friends will close out the Festival and bring some special guests along for the show.
Drum Safari Kansas City, MO
Brandon and Teryn Draper are no strangers to the Smoky Hill River Festival. This year, Festival-goers can expect onstage excitement, hands-on drumming participation, and the impromptu drum jams that make Drum Safari famous!
Drum Safari Presents: Arty’s BIG Party Kansas City, MO
Family fun for ALL AGES! Featuring a live DJ, drumming, dancing ribbons, hula hoops, and a few surprise guests…THIS is the place to be!
Drum Safari Roving Drum Circles Kansas City, MO
Keep your eyes (and ears) peeled for this rhythmic flash-mob experience! When you hear the rumble, be prepared to get your groove on and JOIN IN the fun — percussion instruments are provided for ALL participants!
Duke Otherwise Madison, WI
Duke Otherwise is a playful wordsmith, a spirited performer, a skilled guitarist and a captivating tap dancer. Using his distinct baritone, he sings hilarious and imaginative songs that all ages will delight in together. Duke’s energetic live show is filled with improvisation, audience participation, dancing, and outrageous fun.
Everyday Lights Salina, KS
Everyday Lights is a group of Salina-based musicians with a love for folk and jazz rhythms. Their unique instrumentation and improvised harmony gives them a fresh, creative sound that is best realized in their original music.
Friends of the River Puppets Salina, KS
Friends of the River Foundation’s river puppets are on the loose at the Festival. Watch for Bella Beaver, Bartholomew Bullfrog, Edna C. Channel Cat, and other characters from their educational outreach program as they share stories of the Smoky Hill River.
Happy Faces Entertainment Kansas City, MO
Dennis Porter will keep crowds laughing as he engages Festival fans, young and old, in various entertaining games and activities. Teaching, playing, and having lots of fun are what these shows are all about. Give it a try!
Howard Mahan & Friends Lawrence, KS
Howard Mahan & Friends blends a variety of styles from roots blues to psychedelic rock.
Jaron Bell Salina, KS
Jaron Bell is a singer and comedian whose Texas roots run deep. His blending of genres and talents brings a unique voice to the stage–and to social media, where in 2024, his content racked up over 9.6 million views. He made a name for himself in the Texas/Red Dirt country music scene-playing honky-tonks, festivals, and even landing chart success. He still takes the stage with a high-energy show, performing country originals and crowd-favorite covers that bring people together through music, laughter, and real-life connection. Jaron Bell continues to grow on his success after 2025 where he hit 65 million views, averaged 250,000 views a month, and made the top 50 of the American Country Music Chart.
Jenna McSwain New Orleans, LA
Jenna McSwain has been described by fans as “the hippest Disney princess,” but she prefers to play the role of fairy godmother, guiding you into a world of your own joy and empowerment through her soulful songs. Born in South Carolina and steeped in the music of New Orleans, her southernness resounds through each piano riff. After spending a decade studying jazz, both in schools and out, she released her first album, Wax and Wane: Songs without Seasons. Her second album, Enjoy Your Space, has been called “sophisticated pop perfection,” and “truly a masterful experience that should not be missed.” With a voice described by Offbeat Magazine as “polished but soulful” and killer piano technique, Jenna combines the skill of a seasoned musician with accessible lyrics to create songs that uplift and inspire.
Joe’s Pet Project Salina, KS
Joe’s Pet Project (JPP) is a free-wheelin’ musical experiment known for presenting euphoric live shows of diverse originals and eclectic covers. JPP has been writing songs and performing live together for almost 25 years. The band, fronted by Grammy and Tony-nominated Nathan Tysen, hails from the 67401, but members now live around the country. They come together infrequently to create, record, and perform new music. This May they finally released their first full-length album “We Go On & On” on Joy Machine Records. JPP is known locally for the 305 Live series (an immersive School of Rock concert experience for USD 305 middle and high schoolers), as well as their theatrical rock piece “Stillwater.” Rest assured, the guys promise to entertain and inspire with their pop rock stylings and hometown attitude.
Lindley Creek Ozark Mountains, MO
From the Ozark Mountains of Missouri there resonates the sound of a distinctly different and yet familiar music. A music steeped in roots and full of life, culture and history. Lindley Creek is not only a stream of water, it is a collection of sound knit together by the bond of family. The influence of the younger, more modern generation has morphed the genre of bluegrass into a new and exciting blend. A modern retro sound with energetic acoustic instruments and captivating solos, original arrangements and a powerhouse female vocalist is just a glimpse of what you’ll experience. You’ll hear songs from as long ago as the 1800s to fresh, original music from the band themselves. One thing is for sure, Lindley Creek will keep you excited for what is coming next!
Lost Wax Kansas City, MO
SATURDAY HEADLINER
Our live band song mashups and medley sets are what make us unique. We specialize in crafting high-energy party shows, taking care to transition seamlessly between songs to maximize the dance floor energy. Our joyous, up-tempo live music is the perfect choice for celebrations; with a minimum of 10 members, our band of musicians can provide non-stop live music entertainment, up to three hours long. Our band members are passionate about blending high energy music into mashup songs that nobody has heard before! Whether it’s classic rock, oldies, popular Top 40s hits or just your favorite songs, we can create the best original mashups that get everyone on the dance floor.
*songs will be a mix from the last five decades
Magoo Denver, CO
Magoo is a progressive bluegrass quartet from Denver, Colorado, redefining the boundaries of modern bluegrass with fearless creativity and world-class musicianship. Known for their dynamic live performances, the band delivers a powerful blend of intricate arrangements, tight three-part harmonies, and extended improvisations that bring new life to the genre.
Mariachi Los Reales de Kansas City Kansas City, MO
Bringing traditional mariachi music to Salina with special collaboration with a traditional dance group at the Eric Stein Stage on Friday night!
Mariachi Los Reales de Kansas City with Grupo Folklórico Alma Tapatía Kansas City, MO
Bringing traditional mariachi music to Salina with special collaboration with a traditional dance group, Grupo Folklórico Alma Tapatía.
**Mariachi Los Reales de Kansas City**, an energetic ensemble dedicated to showcasing the incredible talents of young musicians in our vibrant community. Formed just one year ago, this group embodies the spirit of Kansas City’s mariachi scene and aims to elevate the cultural heritage we cherish. Under the guidance of **Mr. Luis Alonso Portillo**, a passionate music educator from Parral, Chihuahua, Mexico, who was raised in Kansas City, Mariachi Los Reales is committed to nurturing the next generation of mariachi musicians. With years of experience in music education and a heartfelt dedication to performance, Mr. Portillo inspires young talent to explore their artistic abilities.
Grupo Folklorico Alma Tapatia are dedicated to igniting your passion for dance and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of México. Committed to authenticity and excellence, we bring to life the unique regional styles and cultural traditions that have shaped Mexican folklore over the years. As we continue to grow, we promise to bring a fresh perspective to traditional dances, all while staying deeply rooted in our culture.
Mattson and Weaver Salina, KS
Mattson and Weaver a long-time Salina folk duo, will rove throughout the Festival. Look for them amongst the bustle, or take a break for some of their music in an out-of-the-way shady spot.
Me Like Bees Joplin, MO
Formed on the heels of the 2000s indie rock scene, the band was started by college dropout, Pete Burton and former gas station clerk, Luke Sheafer in 2009. The pair met while playing high school football together in Kansas; only to lose touch and serendipitously end up at the same college town in southwest Missouri several years later. The duo shared a mutual affinity for the music of the aughts. Bands like The Strokes, Modest Mouse, The White Stripes, and Franz Ferdinand, would serve as the catalyst to the danceable, guitar-driven rock that Me Like Bees would become known for
Papa Green Shoes Springfield, MO
Papa Green Shoes is a high-energy, four-piece band based out of Springfield, Missouri. Rooted in modern blues with touches of soul, funk, and rock, PGS is one of the few bands where all four members are skilled soloists and lead vocalists.
Priscilla Howe Lawrence, KS
Whether she’s telling world folktales, stories from books, or her own stories with a twist, Priscilla Howe’s interactive storytelling performances engage the audience completely.
Richard Renner Lawrence, KS
Hedge People, the Recycle Cycle, and more. Richard Renner is bringing his wacky bag of tricks to the Festival this year! Each day, visitors will experience new characters and opportunities to interact. Why have a little fun when you can have TOO MUCH?!
River Festival: Oakdale Celebrations River Walk – Sunday, 1pm Salina Kansas
SUNDAY, 1PM: The Friends of the River Foundation and the Smoky Hill Museum are partnering to bring you guided walks spotlighting the Smoky Hill River’s history as it winds through the heart of Salina. Walk with us as Salina’s past comes to life through photos, maps, stories, surprises, laughter, and more. Add to the Festival party with a dive into what made this park THE place for celebrations in Salina. Discover fairs, horse and bicycle races, Chautauquas, camping, and more. This walk is a featurette of our Oakdale Park walk, sharing some but not all its discoveries. Must purchase entry to the Smoky Hill River Festival. Meet at Mulberry Street bridge.
Salina Central Jazz Combo Salina, KS
Learning the art of improvisation is like learning how to fly; you just have to make the leap. Enjoy these young players – surprising things will happen!
Salina Municipal Band Salina, KS
Now celebrating an impressive 140 years, this hometown band plays from the great American songbook and much more.
Salina South New Dawn Singers Salina, KS
Led by Jessica Hakoda, this ensemble will display surprising set choices, arrangements, and vocals.
StoneLion Puppet Theatre Kansas City, MO
StoneLion Puppet Theatre is a professional not-for-profit theater company dedicated to expanding the horizons of the young and young-at-heart through the art of puppetry in an interdisciplinary community of ethnic and cultural diversity with an emphasis on environmental sustainability. Using multiple styles of puppetry, including marionettes, masks, shadow, mouth, and rod puppets, StoneLion Puppet Theatre brings the magic of world-class puppet shows right to your doorstep!
Thad Beach Salina, KS
Thad Beach presents a singer-songwriter set shaped by decades of connecting with rural communities through songwriting residencies in Appalachia and the Central Plains. Blending folk traditions with personal storytelling, Thad shares original songs, the stories behind them, and the places and people that inspired them. Featuring ukulele, guitar, harmonica, jaw harp, limberjack, and washboard, this performance offers a memorable mix of music, humor, history, and lived experience.
The Blades Salina, KS
Salina’s own horned-based party band always has something new to offer – great vocals, amazing percussion, and a feel-good vibe.
The Jolly Dutchmen Hays, KS
The ]olly Dutchmen have performed at a variety of venues throughout Europe (including the Hofbrauhaus in Munich, Germany), the Caribbean Islands and the United States including Fort Leavenworth, Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, Prariesta, Tall Grass Heritage Festival, Sedgwick Fall Festival and Oztoberfest. The ]olly Dutchmen began performing in 1952 under the direction of Eddie Basgall and continue performing under the direction of Eddie’s son, Stan. The ]olly Dutchmen play old time Polkas, Waltzes and a variety of Swing Classic Counfi5r, 50’s Rock, Latin and Broadway dance music as well. The Jolly Dutchmen entertain music lovers of all ages at concerts, dances, parties and any occasion where live music is appreciated.
The Swallowtails Kansas City, MO
At the core of The Swallowtails, you will find two musicians magnetized by a curiosity to connect and be understood. The genre-bending exploration between Miki P (guitar and vocals) and Rachel Lovelace (bassoon and vocals) has established the band as a premier act in Kansas City and naturally grown a large and loyal following as people connect with both the music and the musicians. The band’s sound is heavily influenced by rock, folk, pop, and classical music.
Established in 2018, the band has released 2 full-length albums: Right Where We Are (2020) and The World Still Spins (2023). In 2024, the band redefined their sound as a duo and wrote, produced, and self recorded their 5-song EP Lucky Penny (2024). This pivot cemented the beginning of a new musical direction for the duo as collaborative songwriters and was recognized by fans and critics alike when they received the award Best Local Band in Kansas City by The Pitch Awards. NPR’s 90.9 The Bridge called their latest work, “A lovely confluence of pastoral folk and baroque pop, these songs evoke the understated but poignant movements that we all encounter throughout life – in celebration, struggle, regrets and realizations.”
2025 was a milestone year for the band. The Swallowtails’ act was featured at Ozark Mountain Music Fest, Smoky Hill River Festival, and Boulevardia. They collaborated on a re-release of their single Lucky Penny with acclaimed Nashville-based fiddle player John Mailander. Most importantly, they completed writing and recording their third full length album titled Perspective. Their latest work was backed and funded for over $21,000 by a Kickstarter campaign. Now in its final stages of production, Perspective is set for release in May 2026, with the first single releasing March 4th. Produced in collaboration with Lawrence, KS–based artist Heidi Gluck, the album represents The Swallowtails’ most refined and intentional work to date. Whether on record or onstage, the duo’s bond is unmistakable—songs that guide listeners back home to themselves, illuminating the inner worlds The Swallowtails so carefully build between artist and audience.
Theatre Salina Salina, KS
Catch pop up performances on Saturday! Theatre Salina presents “Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville.” More than a musical. It’s a way of life. Book by Greg Garcia and Mike O’Malley with music and lyrics by Jimmy Buffett.