From Johnny Cash to Beyonce: Tonic Ball reveals its honored acts

David Lindquist | IndyStar

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The 17th edition of Tonic Ball will celebrate the music of Johnny Cash, Elton John, ABBA, Pearl Jam and Beyonce.

Tonic Ball, scheduled Nov. 16 at five Fountain Square venues, raises funds for hunger-relief program Second Helpings. The event gathers dozens of Indiana musicians and gives them an assignment: Perform songs made famous by someone else.

Country-rock pioneer Gram Parsons was the first Tonic Ball honoree in 2002. This year's event spotlights country music icon Cash, pop superstars John, ABBA and Beyonce, and rock band Pearl Jam.

Music will be heard at the Hi-Fi (John), Fountain Square Theatre (Cash), Pioneer (Beyonce), White Rabbit Cabaret (ABBA) and Radio Radio (Pearl Jam).

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Tickets, $50, go on sale today, and musicians are invited to apply to play Tonic Ball. For more information, visit TonicIndy.com.

"Tiny Tonic," a pre-Tonic Ball event featuring music for youngsters, is scheduled Nov. 10 at Second Helpings, 1121 Southeastern Ave.

In 2017, Tonic Ball raised more than $149,000 for Second Helpings, which provides meals for after-school programs, homeless shelters, senior programs, domestic-violence shelters and community centers.

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Call IndyStar reporter David Lindquist at (317) 444-6404. Follow him on Twitter: @317Lindquist.

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