On Thursday, Oct. 30, the Diamonds will bring their 1957 million-selling hit “Little Darlin’” and other rock-and-roll classics to the Benton Civic Center for a third performance.

Danny Stewart, civic center authority board member, said the Diamonds enjoy playing on the local stage.

“The first time they performed, the civic center was sold out,” Stewart said. “During their second performance, 750 people turned out to see them. We expect another large crowd for the third evening of entertainment.

“People love the Diamonds, and the band loves to play in local venues,” Stewart said.

The group’s multi-talented tenor, Bobby Poynton, graduated from Illinois Wesleyan University and shortly thereafter moved to Hollywood to pursue his dream of becoming an actor, Stewart noted.

He said the group has a tremendous show.

“From the moment they take the stage, this is a command performance. They connect with their audience, conduct sing-a-longs and really draw everyone into the show with them,” Stewart said. “Together with bass singer Jerry Siggins, lead singer Joe Finetti and baritone singer Gary Owens, the Diamonds have impeccable vocal harmonies and perform a number of instruments.”

Owens, who does most of the vocal arranging for The Diamonds, said the goal of the group is “to keep that classic Diamonds’ sound intact.”

“We have created one strong group personality despite the fact that we are four distinctive individuals,” Owens said. “The four of us as a unit have a special chemistry. It is that chemistry that gives us our unique identity.”

Rick Knight, authority board treasurer, said tickets for the event are reasonably priced.

“Reserved seats are $20 each,” he said. “The reserved tables accommodate up to eight people and will be set up near the 1,800-square-foot dance floor. General admission seats are $15 each. Tickets are available by calling the civic center at (618) 435-5700. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. Tickets are also available at Vickee’s Floral and Cards located at 204 E. Main Street in Benton or by calling 435-2449.

“Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the concert begins at 7,” Knight said. “This is a family event and no smoking or alcohol will be permitted. Ron and Kim Snyder, owners of the Garden’s Restaurant in Christopher, will serve full concessions. Popcorn, pretzels, chips, a variety of sandwiches, soda and coffee will be available.”

Stewart said Siggins took a walking tour the last time the Diamonds performed in Benton.

“Jerry Siggins walked through all of the antique stores on the square and said he was fascinated by all they had to offer,” he said. “He also walked to the civic center later that afternoon. All four members of the Diamonds really have a special bond with their audience, which is why they are making another return performance to the Benton Civic Center. People love the old songs and really love to dance when the Diamonds take the stage. We will draw people from all over Southern Illinois for this show.”

Knight said he is working on other bookings.

“Tickets will go be available during the Oct. 30 concert for the next show,” he said. “The Kentucky Headhunters are coming to the Benton Civic Center on Saturday, Nov. 15. Tickets will be $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Tickets for the Kentucky Headhunters go on sale on Oct. 15. Deanna Freeman and the Small Town Band are the opening act, beginning at 7 p.m. and the Kentucky Headhunters take the stage at 8:30 p.m.

“Future bookings include the Nehrkorns Fall Gospel Sing on Oct. 25, Homemakers Education Association Christmas Ideas Day, a train show, a craft show, a battle of the bands in January, and Black Stone Cherry in February,” Knight said. “We are pleased to announce that Benton Consolidated High School will bring their Madrigal Feast back to the civic center on Dec. 5 and 6.”

Stewart said a 50/50 drawing would be held during the Diamonds concert.