American Hi-Fi replaces Cheap Trick

The Alaska State Fair was dealt a blow last week as Cheap Trick pulled out of the entertainment lineup at the last minute. But thanks to some quick work, the band was replaced within 36 hours.

Cheap Trick was scheduled to play at the Borealis Theatre on Aug. 23, the first Saturday of the fair. Citing production issues, the band canceled, forcing the fair to act quickly. American Hi-Fi, a Boston-based band, replaces Cheap Trick in the lineup.

"We're fortunate to have secured this band for Alaska as they've turned out to be a summer sensation," state fair general manager Joe Lawton said.

American Hi-Fi just released a new album, "The Art of Losing." They are known for their blend of pop, alternative and rock. Getting the band booked at such a late date was a coup for the Alaska State Fair.

"We had four offers outright rejected for one reason or another during that time, but we got American Hi-Fi," Lawton said. "They have to come from Northern Virginia and play in one day. They are ending a little run on tour and could get us in."

American Hi-Fi is playing in London tomorrow. Following their Alaska State Fair gig, they are playing at Red Rocks in Colorado with rap sensation 50 Cent and progressive hardcore band Korn, and then will play at Bumbershoot in Seattle on Aug. 31. The band consists of Stacy Jones, Jamie Arentzen, Drew Parsons and Brian Nolen.

Tickets are on sale, with general admission available for $13 and reserved seating going for $25, which includes fair admission. People who have Cheap Trick tickets can exchange them for American Hi-Fi tickets by bringing them to the Alaska State Fairgrounds only. For refunds, take the Cheap Trick tickets to the office at the Alaska State Fair or to the Anchorage Performing Arts Center ticket booth. Refunds can also be obtained by mailing tickets and fair admission vouchers to the Alaska State Fair, 4075 Glenn Highway, Palmer, AK 99645. If you don't return the fair admission vouchers, the $8 admission price will be deducted from the refund.

For more information about refunds, interested people can call the fair office at 745-4827.