Roark Rally

Mike Roark was diagnosed with mantle cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma two days after Valentine’s Day this year. After tests, transfusions, a half-dozen rounds of aggressive chemotherapy and a bone-marrow stem-cell transplant at KU Medical Center, the underinsured musician has massive medical bills. His family and friends have organized a benefit show and BBQ, headlined by Kelley Hunt and hosted by Micheal Mahoney of KMBC Channel 9. Along with a silent auction and bake sale, the benefit features two stages of entertainment. On the main stage: acoustic blues from the Rain Dogs; the Retro Rangers’ western swing; the ’50s and ’60s rock and roll of Fabulous Freddy and the Doo Wops; and bluegrass from Graybill, Gruenbaum & McSpadden and the Bluegrass Tornados & Uncle Baccey Juice. A second stage downstairs has acoustic solos, duets and trios. It’s all at Unity Temple on the Plaza (707 West 47th Street). Tickets are available at the door or in advance at brownpapertickets.com/event/81533. See mikeroarkbenefit.com for more info or call 816-254-8935.

Sun., Oct. 18, 3-9 p.m., 2009