Owner Mario Lapointe, who saved the Sons over the summer after they were plunged into administration following years of behind-the-scenes uncertainty, will join local musician Richie Gallacher for a gig raising funds for Tullochan – where Richie works – and the Sons of the Rock.
Richie and Mario, Stories and Songs – an Acoustic Way of Life, will see the duo entertain guests with tales from their lives, as well as acoustic performances in Bar72 at The Marbill Coaches Stadium on Friday September 26.
All money raised will be split between the football club and Tullochan, based on Poplar Road, a youth development charity who work with over 1000 young people each year between the ages of 5 and 25.
Tullochan offers a range of bespoke programmes within primary and secondary schools, as well as tailored support through the Tullochan Training Academy, including work placement opportunities, personal development programmes and drop-in groups.
Mario, who performs under the stage name Vintage Lapointe and has had his work streamed more than 1m times online, said: “I’m passionate about music, sport and using these to support young people. And so when I met Richie, who shares those passions, we knew that we had to organise something.
“Tullochan is an incredible charity doing life-changing work across Dumbarton and the wider area. And it’s a charity that the football club is keen to be closely involved with.
“This will be a night of original music where Richie and I will talk about the stories and emotions behind each song.
“It’s something very different for Dumbarton. And it will also be the first time I’ve performed in Scotland, so I’m super-excited – even if there are a few nerves!”
Richie, chief executive of Tullochan, added: “I’m delighted to dust off the guitar and take part in the event to raise money for Tullochan and the club. I’m so proud of what Tullochan delivers in the community and the positive change it brings to the lives of so many young people and our growing partnership with the club will bring even greater impact.
“Mario and I have spoken a lot about music over the past few months and I can’t wait to sit on stage with him and hear his songs and stories live.
“There is a real buzz about the place since Mario took over and set out his future plans and long may it continue.
“Our gig on the Friday night will kickstart a great weekend at the stadium – there’s the home game on the Saturday and the Dumbarton Rocks festival on the Sunday which has an amazing line-up of musical acts and local businesses. It’s about time Dumbarton and the wider area had events like this to showcase local talent and I’m looking forward to being a part of it.”
Tickets are on sale via Fanbase priced at £5, with doors opening from 6.30pm on Friday September 26.
The event kicks of a major weekend of entertainment at the iconic ground, with the Sons home match with Stranraer a day later followed by the all-new Dumbarton Rocks Festival – which brings more live music, artisan food and entertainment for the whole family to the shadow of the Rock.