Leah Marlene Adds Maddie Poppe to Homecoming Lineup; Fritz Hager to Open West Coast Dates
Leah Marlene has revealed exciting news for fans ahead of her hometown concert in Normal, Illinois: Maddie Poppe will join the bill for the August 27 show at Corn Crib Stadium. The announcement follows Leah’s earlier confirmation that fellow American Idol season 20 contestant Fritz Hager would open the headlining set. Now, with Season 16 winner Maddie Poppe added to the lineup, the event promises a memorable evening of live music from three talented singer-songwriters with roots in the Idol community.
Leah Marlene announced the addition on social media with an enthusiastic post that celebrated Maddie Poppe’s attendance and her friendship with Fritz Hager. In her reveal she wrote, “MADDIE POPPE MADDIE POPPE MADDIE POPPE!!!!!!! @maddiepoppe is coming to Normal to join @fritzhagermusic and I as we put on an unforgettable night of music!!”
The Corn Crib Stadium field in Normal will host the outdoor concert on August 27. Leah has promised a “huge production” that includes a large video screen and a full band to support her performance. The setup suggests a festival-style evening that will highlight each artist’s live sound and stage presence.
Leah also expressed excitement about Fritz Hager’s involvement, calling him “my best pal” and praising the set he will bring to the show. She hinted that Fritz might join her onstage for a few songs, adding an element of collaboration for attendees to look forward to.
Fritz Hager Joins Maddie Poppe Tour for West Coast Dates
In addition to the Normal, Illinois appearance, Fritz Hager will open for Maddie Poppe on selected West Coast dates as part of Maddie’s summer tour. Maddie shared the final stretch of her summer schedule on Instagram, noting that Fritz will accompany her for the West Coast run and that the trio will come together for the Corn Crib Stadium date.
Maddie’s West Coast stops include Salt Lake City, UT (Aug 22); Seattle, WA (Aug 24); Portland, OR (Aug 25); and Los Angeles, CA (Aug 31). Between those West Coast dates, Maddie will travel to Normal, IL on Aug 27 to perform alongside Leah and Fritz. The tour reflects Maddie’s continued momentum as she headlines shows and brings on special guests for select dates.
Fans who want to attend the Normal concert should note the venue and date—Corn Crib Stadium, Normal, Illinois, August 27—and check official artist pages for ticket information and updates on production details. Leah has emphasized that the event will be more than a typical hometown show, with expanded staging and visual elements to enhance the live experience.
For followers of American Idol alumni, the concert offers a unique chance to see three performers with Idol connections sharing a stage: Leah Marlene and Fritz Hager from season 20, and Maddie Poppe, the winner of season 16. Each artist brings a distinct style and repertoire, promising a varied evening that will appeal to fans of contemporary singer-songwriters and Idol audiences alike.
Leah, Maddie, and Fritz have each been active on tour and in the studio this year, and their collaboration for this show underscores the community that has grown among former American Idol contestants. Attendees should expect polished live arrangements, harmonies, and the possibility of onstage collaborations during the night.
If you plan to attend, consider arriving early for production entrances and to take advantage of any pre-show announcements. With Leah’s promise of a full band and a large video screen, the Corn Crib Stadium concert aims to be a standout summer event in Normal, Illinois.