MOOREFIELD, WV — McCoy’s Grand Theatre & Museum will host the world premiere of the new documentary film BETWEEN THE STRINGS, capturing the spirit and sound of the 2025 West Virginia Branch Mountain Bluegrass Festival.
The film will premiere on Saturday, March 28, at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM at McCoy’s Grand, located at 121 North Main Street in Moorefield. Admission is free and open to the public. Doors will open 45 minutes prior to each screening. No tickets are required; seating is first come, first served.
“I wanted to capture on film the excitement of the festival,” said filmmaker Billy Keplinger. “This film takes audiences behind the scenes — from backstage to jam sessions — and highlights the musicians and the community who experience four unforgettable days of music. I think audiences will love seeing and hearing these special artists in such an authentic way.”
“We’re honored to host BETWEEN THE STRINGS and share this special film with our community,” said John Brennskag, President of McCoy’s Grand. “It not only celebrates bluegrass music, but it builds anticipation for the upcoming 2026 festival this summer.”
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Festival
West Virginia’s Branch Mountain Bluegrass Festival returns for its third year July 15–18, 2026, set against the scenic backdrop of the Branch Mountains.
The four-day celebration kicks off Wednesday with the beloved “Chicken & Pickin” — a festive day of food and music — followed by three full days of national, regional, and local bluegrass talent. The festival offers a welcoming family atmosphere with jam sessions, meet-and-greets with performers, and a popular lesson tent for those eager to learn new techniques and songs.
The 2026 lineup includes:
Larry Cordle • Hammertowne • Lonesome River Band • Lorrie Jordan • Nothin’ Fancy • Nick Chandler & Delivered • Volume 5 • Dave Adkins • Valerie Smith & Liberty Pike • Bluegrass Brothers • Maysville Express • The Mullins Jam Pickers • One Lane Road • Appalachia • High Mountain Bluegrass • Schuyler • Streamline • Back Creek Valley Boys • Half Lit • 28 Special • Brandon Rickman and Sons Briar & Chet • and host band The Keplinger’s N2PICKN & Johnny (Cash) Keplinger.
Additional information and reservations are available at: https://www.westvirginiasbranchmountainbluegrassfestival.com
About McCoy’s Grand
McCoy’s Grand Theatre & Museum is a nonprofit performing arts center serving Hardy County and the surrounding region. The historic venue is home to the McCoy–McMechen Museum, the Eunice D. McCoy Lounge, and the Courtyard Plaza and Gardens, scheduled for completion in Spring 2026.
Each year, McCoy’s Grand produces theatrical productions, hosts the Spring Concert Series, presents FiddleFest during Hardy County Heritage Weekend, partners with Missoula Children’s Theatre for an annual youth production, and offers community favorites such as the Veterans Concert and Fall Fest Open House. The organization also awards an annual scholarship to a graduating Hardy County senior and provides ongoing outreach programs.
McCoy’s Grand will proudly celebrate its 100th Anniversary in 2027, continuing its mission to inspire, educate, and entertain for generations to come.
For more information, visit mcoysgrand.org.
