A railroad crossing with flashing lights and gates set the stage for "Midnight Train to Georgia," the theme of the 2009 Big Red Band's Varsity Show held Nov. 13-15 in Johnstown High School's Performing Arts Center (PAC).

Sunday evening's sold-out show began with the roar of a train and about 165 Big Red Band members taking center stage to play "Fight Song," followed by "Salute to America" and other favorites such as "Louie Louie" and "Hang on Sloopy."

Enveloping the audience, band members danced in the aisles to the beat of songs from Journey, a 1970s-80s classic rock band. Those numbers featured "Separate Ways," "Don't Stop Believing," "Anyway You Want It" and "Open Arms."

Band director Joe Carver previously told The Independent he chose music from Journey because it is pleasing for people of all ages.

"I look for timeless music that everyone enjoys," Carver said.

The choice also complements the group's itinerary for the year, as it has been preparing for its journey to Georgia's Dec. 31 Chick-fil-A Bowl. Big Red will be marching in the bowl parade the morning of Dec. 31 and will be featured in pre-game and half-time performances with other bands later that evening.

The band will also be showcased in the Field Show Festival competition in the Georgia Dome, home of the Atlantic Falcons, on Dec. 29.

Railroad conductor hats lined the lower walls of the PAC with the names of each Big Red Band member, and enlarged photos of the band decorated the upper levels of the center.

During the intermission, guests in the lobby saw tourist locations the band will visit in Georgia including the Georgia Dome, Stone Mountain Park and Coca-Cola. A life-size red model train engine also greeted visitors as they entered the building.

"This is great," said Lori Rodgers, of Westerville. "This is my second time at the Varsity Show. My niece and nephew are in the band. Every thing is great from the choreography to the sound. I'm excited they're going to the Chick-fil-A Bowl."

"I love it," added Susan Brobhl, of Johnstown. "It's fascinating how they move around with the instruments in the aisles."

Johnstown's Doug Smith helped build the set with the help of a volunteer, who's also an engineer.

"It's wonderful," he said. "I like the marching and the movement. They sound wonderful."

Mount Vernon's Margaret Neil, a 1978 J-M graduate, said the band is "really great."

"My niece is in the band," she said. "We also had a strong band in the '70s."

The Varsity Show also highlighted the future pride of Johnstown -- the Adams Middle School band.

Following the intermission, the band played Kenny Chesney's "Everybody Wants To Go to Heaven," Rascal Flats' "Summer Nights," and Lady Antebellum's "Looking for a Good Time."

Other featured rock numbers included Fallout Boys' "Dance, Dance" and "Thanks for the Memories," and Shinedown's "Second Chance."

A video presentation honored the band's 24 seniors, and each was recognized by name and with gifts.

The show concluded with "Long Train Runnin'" and "Georgia on My Mind."

In addition to helping with the band's trip to Georgia, proceeds from the three performances will go back into the band program.