Clemens Field being readied for concert

It has been weeks since the final renovation work took place at Clemens Field. But Thursday the whine of a power saw and the pounding of hammers could be heard as preparations were being made in advance of Saturday night’s Candy Coburn concert at the ballpark.
A stage was being built against the backstop in front of the grandstand. The screen, which was hung to protect fans from foul balls, will be raised for the concert.
“Fortunately for us the way we’re doing this show is the way she likes. She’s very much into her audience. She’s going to be right on top of the people and I’ve given her 85 feet to run in. She’ll really get a chance to entertain,” said Larry Owens, co-owner of the Hannibal Cavemen who call the ballpark home.
The big challenge will be getting the ballpark ready for Sunday afternoon’s home game.
“That stage has to be gone, that net has to be put back, and the sound and lights have to be out of here,” said Owens. “The next day it will be gone and nobody will be able to tell we were here.”
While the stage may be gone, it won’t be moved far. Owens has agreed to allow the Hannibal Jaycees to use the portable stage for its events during National Tom Sawyer Days.
Owens says the stage has been built with versatility in mind.
“It can be configured in all directions. We built something we can use over and over,” he said.