Tim Chapman/PCT Ron and Opal Erickson perform at Music in the Park on Wednesday.

Ron and Opal Erickson, of Branson, Mo., performed for the fifth time at Rugby’s Music in the Park on a sunny Wednesday evening.

The husband and wife duo played old-time country and gospel songs, and were well-received by the crowd. Opal sang, while Ron sang and played acoustic and steel guitars for a few songs.

“It was just a great occasion,” Ron said.

Ron and Opal have performed for 43 years, and have taken their show on the road for 15. The duo have performed in Rugby four other times over the years.

When asked what draws them back, Ron said, “it’s the people and the town.”

The duo are three-time recipients of the International Duo of the Year award from the Country Gospel Music Association, the most times any duo act can win the award from that organization. Opal also won a Female Vocalist of the Year award in the past from the same organization. Both awards are based on votes from their country gospel performing peers.

(Sub.) Moen Family July 23

Duane, Marilyn, Hannah, Elizabeth, Amanda, Serena, Leland, Evan, Clayton and Merryanna Moen, of Upham, will come up to Rugby next week to perform for Music in the Park.

When Duane and Marilyn married in June 1994, the Moen family and subsequent band was born. They play Southern gospel, country and bluegrass, and utilize guitars, basses, mandolins, violins and banjos. The family farms near Upham and homeschools six children while maintaining a local performance schedule.

All Music in the Park performances take place Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in Ellery Park during the summer. Lions Club members will be present, scooping free ice cream during performances.

In the event of inclement weather, tune into AM 1450 KZZJ for information regarding an alternate location.