For five years, the Blind Center of North Carolina’s major fundraiser featured patrons Dining in the Dark. This year, the center is shaking things up a bit with Concert in the Dark, featuring fan-favorite Molasses Creek.

The event is slated for Friday night at Arts of the Pamlico’s Turnage Theatre in Washington. For $40 per ticket, attendees will be treated to heavy hors d’oeuvres by Sugar Mama’s Catering Services out of Williamston, a 50/50 raffle and silent auction featuring pottery and paintings by local artists, gift certificates and handcrafted items made by Blind Center clients. Just before Molasses Creek takes the Turnage stage, a live auction will include a spa day, golf rounds at two separate golf courses, fine jewelry and a pet portrait by a local artist, according to Blind Center Director Christie Moler.

While the main purpose of the event is to raise money for the Blind Center, the goal is to also increase awareness and help people understand what it’s like to live with limited or no vision.

Enter Molasses Creek: the first half of the these Ocracoke musicians’ set will be performed as usual. It’s the second set where things will get interesting, according to Moler.

“The second half, everyone will be encouraged to use their blindfolds, and Molasses Creek will be playing from different areas of the theater,” Moler said. “The audience will get an idea of what it’s like to be blind.”

When Moler approached Fiddler Dave (Tweedie), the band’s fiddle player and one of its vocalists, he was on board immediately. In the same spirit, Concert in the Dark is a community event, she said.

“It’s just going to be a good evening of fun and fellowship and raising some money for the Blind Center,” Moler said.

Those interested in attending Concert in the Dark can call 252-946-6208 or email Moler at director@theblindcenter.org. Walk-ins are welcome the night of the event, however, Moler requests walk-ins call to reserve a spot.