February 20, 2026
Before taking the stage at Pearl River Community College’s Brownstone Center for the Arts, the Molly Ringwalds set the tone for an evening of high-energy music and nostalgia. They transported the audience back to the 1980s with iconic music, bright lights shining, and each band member wearing an outfit inspired by a famous person from the era.
The group consists of Sir Devon Nooner, “Platinum” Randi Wilde, Dickie English, Sir Liam Thunders, and Lord Philip Wang. Each of the musicians performed at least one song as lead singer, with some rotating between instruments as well. They provided an ‘80s experience that concertgoers appreciated, both those who lived through the decade and those who did not.
Although the Molly Ringwalds have played throughout the area for decades, the concert was their first time playing in Poplarville. With platforms for the drums and keyboard that could be driven around the stage, their performance was unlike others to grace the Brownstone stage with the setlist featuring crowd favorites from the decade’s biggest names.
Selections performed included “Jukebox Hero” by Foreigner, “Under Pressure” by David Bowie and Queen, “Keep Your Hands to Yourself’ by Georgia Satellites, “Tainted Love” by Soft Cell, and their encore choice of “Sweet Child o’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses.
Justin Owens came to the concert with his mother, Dorothy Owens. She knew how much he enjoys ‘80s music.
“I think the whole thing was pretty good altogether,” said Justin. “I couldn’t pick a favorite. The choices were eclectic and they offered a great performance.”
Several PRCC students took the opportunity to enjoy the live performance.
Allen Pearce of Purvis came with several of his friends. They met the band by the stage after the show to get autographs and photos.
“For my first concert ever, it was awesome,” said Pearce. “I really enjoyed it and plan to come to more events like this and encourage others to do so as well.”
Kaeleb (KT) Trayner of Poplarville was with Pearce and other students. He echoed Pearce’s sentiments.
“This was the greatest show that I have ever seen in Poplarville, Mississippi,” said Trainor. “This 80s band needs to be recognized and is absolutely awesome.”
Trainor also encouraged others to visit PRCC, saying, “Come to Pearl River Community College, the Brownstone’s got things cooking over here for sure.”
FUTURE BROWNSTONE EVENTS
The spring semester offers audiences several opportunities to experience PRCC student talent.
Variety Show — March 3 at 7 p.m.
Little Shop of Horrors — April 9 and 10 at 7 p.m.; April 11 at 2 p.m.
Symphonic Band — April 14 at 7 p.m.
JazzCats — April 21 at 7 p.m.
Spring Pops featuring The Voices & Currents — April 23 at 7 p.m.
Tickets are available at prcc.edu/brownstone/upcoming-events/ with seats assigned at purchase. Groups of 11 or more people are eligible for a discounted rate.
For the latest news on Pearl River Community College, visit PRCC.edu and follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter (@PRCC_Wildcats), Instagram (PRCCWILDCATS), Facebook (@PRCCMKTG),and TikTok (@prcc_wildcats).
Article by Laura O’Neill. Photography by Patrick Peerboom and Laura O’Neill.
