APRIL 3, 2025, FAIRFIELD BAY, AR – Last month, the festive sounds of Texas two-step filled the air at the Fairfield Bay Conference Center, marking the venue’s first concert event after a several-year hiatus. On March 22, the Center’s performance hall opened its doors to the public for a nationally-renowned ensemble in a pitch to raise money for much-needed repairs.
The special evening fundraiser welcomed popular Branson country ensemble “Melody Hart and the All-Star Band” and proved wildly successful, raising over $2,500 which will go towards the rebuild of the facility’s worn outdoor deck. Organizers of the event report an attendance over 200, filling the Great Hall with a delighted audience of locals and first-time visitors from the band’s devoted fan base. The crowd enjoyed an evening of camaraderie, with a cash bar and a dance floor, where line dancing reigned supreme as the band churned out a continuous stream of country hits, swing favorites, and popular classics.
The band’s notable namesake, Melody Hart, has been a beloved fixture of the Branson country circuit for decades, forming an electrifying “twin fiddle” duo with husband, Wayne Massengale. These days, they are joined on stage by sons Dillon and Garrett, who have both recently made their Opry debut. Despite offers to “pass the hat” during their performance, they generously encouraged fans to contribute instead towards the venue’s repair fund.
Their appearance in Fairfield Bay marks the turn of new chapter for the Conference Center, as it works to rejuvenate its facilities and to reclaim its place at the heart of the community’s arts & culture scene.
Originally built in 1978, the much-loved “Our Towne” center was closed in 2002 following massive flood damage. After its donation to the city in 2011, a civic committee led by then-mayor Paul Wellenberger spearheaded a total renovation with the help of grants, and the new facility celebrated its grand opening in 2013. With directors Bob & Wilba Thompson at the helm for the next several years, it grew into a regional destination for conferences, expos, exhibitions, weddings, and other gatherings, and saw the long-anticipated opening of the Cobblestone Inn & Suites next door in 2020.
The existing deck area – dating back to this 2012/2013 renovation – is situated in a tranquil woodland setting, and is a favorite option among the venue’s offerings. Bids are currently being accepted, and the rebuild is targeted for completion later this summer, as part of broader strategy to enhance and modernize the facility’s amenities.
Conference Center organizers wish to express their special thanks to the volunteers who helped make the event possible, and who continue to perform a vital role in day-to-day operations. Details about future events will be announced on the venue’s website at https://ffbconference.com and on Facebook.
Fairfield Bay Conference Center 