Gary Morris at Mansfield Center

Not many artists can cross over from country music to opera, but Gary Morris did just that in the 1980's. After a string of country hits including the 1984 ACM and CMA Song of the Year, Wind Beneath My Wings, he joined Linda Ronstadt  in a New York production of Puccini's opera "La Boheme, then took on Broadway, playing (and singing) the role of Jean Val Jean in "Les Miserables."

These days, Gary Morris continues to tour, playing mostly acoustic ("just me and my guitar") concerts. He'll be appearing at the University of Great Falls Theater Thursday evening at 7:30pm. Tickets are $20 general admission, $15 for students and members of the military. For tickets, call the GF Civic Center Box Office at 455-8514.

Over the years, Gary has released a dozen albums. His latest CD is a collection of favorite hymns. The days, he also runs a hunting and fishing outfitting service at his ranch in southern Colorado. For information about his music and ranch, log onto www.garymorris.com .