The Castle Theatre was filled with energy Thursday night as local musicians competed in the annual Battle of the Bands concert, hosted in partnership with WZND.
Seven bands took the stage, each performing for a packed crowd eager to cheer on their favorite acts. The audience ultimately voted Lady Strange as the best band of the night.
Event organizer Jordan Cherry said the concert was a great opportunity to unite students from across the Bloomington-Normal community.
“I think it’s been a really cool opportunity for us to bring in a lot of students both from Illinois State and Illinois Wesleyan,” Cherry said. “It’s great to see new faces at concerts like this.”
The event also celebrated WZND’s ongoing commitment to supporting local artists.
“WZND has always had an emphasis on local music,” said Elizabeth Zoerner, a representative from WZND. “We do weekly artist interviews and try to reach out to not just Bloomington-Normal bands, but also those across Central Illinois.”
Performers said getting the chance to play on The Castle Theatre’s stage was a rare and exciting experience.
“Once they get selected for the event and get to play on the stage, that’s an experience many haven’t had before,” one organizer explained. “They’re used to playing in houses, garages, or basements, but not often on a stage this size.”
The Battle of the Bands brought together students, music lovers, and community members for a night of high energy and hometown pride.
Reporter Thomas Palatinus described it as “an absolutely electrifying night for everyone at The Castle Theatre.”