SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — With just two days left before the Wonders’ of Wildlife grand opening and less than 12 hours before the concert and gala event, staff is working around the clock to finalize the museum.
A sign outside Bass Pro Shops tells customers the store will be closed Wednesday, Sept. 20. The gala Wednesday night is expected to draw big names.
The list of performers includes Kevin Costner, Luke Bryan and Dierks Bentley. Former presidents George W. Bush and Jimmy Carter are on the invitation list, alongside Gov. Eric Greitens and about 400 conservationists. The event is invitation-only.
Theresa Vail, a spokesperson for Wonders of Wildlife, talked about Morris’ conservation efforts.
“Johnny Morris is like a modern day Teddy Roosevelt, he’s just continuing on with that vision, and I think that’s rare nowadays, and it’s appreciated,” Vail said.
Museum spokesman Jack Wliezen says 400 leaders in conservation, including former presidents George W. Busch and Jimmy Carter, along with actor Kevin Costner and country singer Dierks Bentley, have all been invited to tonight’s private gala.
KOLR10 will have live team coverage of the concert and gala Wednesday night on KOLR10 News at 5 and 6 p.m.