A benefit concert for the Empire Arts Center
- Thursday, October 30, 2025
- 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Empire Arts Center, Grand Forks, ND
- Costume contest during show – Costumes encouraged, but not required
Come and experience the most beautiful theater in the area, The Empire Arts Center. Join us to dance the night away in support of the Empire. You won’t want to miss this great community event at Empire Alive 2025!
Join us on Thursday, October 30th, for an electrifying evening dedicated to supporting the Empire Arts Center.
Event Timeline:
- 5:00pm – Doors open
- 6:20pm – 7:35pm – The Forefeathers
- 7:35pm – 8:00pm – Intermission
- 8:00pm – 9:40pm – The Dank
- 9:40pm – 10:00pm – Group jam with The Dank and The Forefeathers
Thank you to Our Empire Alive 2025 sponsors!
Platinum level Sponsors:
Silver level Sponsors:
Bronze level Sponsors:
Copper level Sponsors:
Casey Johnson
Friend level Sponsor:
Thank You to our Empire Alive 2025 Donors!
Chris Gulbrandson
Meet The Acts:
Based out of Grand Forks, North Dakota, The Dank is a six-piece, groove driven, funk and rock-n-roll band that formed in 2017. Known for their deep grooves and big jams, the Dank is comprised of Anthony Diaz (guitar/vocals), Daniel Knight (guitar/vocals), Joseph McCauley (keyboards, saxophone, vocals), Brian Rydell (drums/percussion), Tyler Vacura (drums, percussion) and Ryan Hilldefender (bass). Multiple vocalists add vocal harmonies help to fill out the sound. Playing a combination of original music and cover songs, their live performances have made them a local favorite in North Dakota and surrounding areas.
Hailing from Fargo, North Dakota, The Forefeathers bring a vibrant blend of jam band sensibilities, rock roots, Americana storytelling, and psychedelic soundscapes. Formed by three former members of The Human Element, Matt Johnson (guitar/vocals), Seth Holden (drums/vocals), and Brant Niemi (bass) joined forces with Keith Thornby (sax/keys) to blend their talents, influences, and love for this style of music. Each member has gained diverse musical backgrounds from playing in locally acclaimed bands throughout the Midwest, including OFOSHO, Sovereign Sect, Hiahli, WBPN, and Hardwood Groove.
