From Hockey Fights to Festival Nights with Troy Vollhofer

In this compelling episode of "On the Bus with Troy Vollhofer," host Nick Minama engages in an in-depth conversation with Troy Vollhofer, the visionary behind the renowned Country Thunder Music Festival. Released on July 24, 2025, this episode delves into Troy's multifaceted journey from the icy rinks of professional hockey to the vibrant stages of major music festivals.

Early Life and Roots in Show Business

Troy Vollhofer's immersion into the entertainment world began at a tender age, influenced heavily by his family's deep ties to show business. His maternal grandfather, a projectionist and president of the stagehand union (IATSI Local 295) in Canada, set the foundation for Troy's future endeavors.

Troy Vollhofer [03:45]: "My mother picked up the phone and said, what do you have going on at the theater tomorrow? She said, do you need some help?"

This early exposure provided Troy with firsthand experience in theater productions, fostering a profound understanding and passion for the industry.

A Dual Passion: Hockey and Show Business

Balancing his budding interest in show business, Troy also pursued a fervent passion for hockey. His commitment led him to play in the Western Hockey League for three years and eventually sign with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1986. However, his athletic aspirations were intertwined with his entrepreneurial spirit.

Troy Vollhofer [12:15]: "I signed with them and I took my signing bonus and I plowed it into gear and I thought, build it, they will come."

Despite not making it to the NHL, Troy's stint in professional hockey played a pivotal role in funding and expanding his production business, demonstrating his knack for leveraging opportunities.

Founding Premier Global Productions

In 1990, responding to the evolving needs of the industry, Troy transitioned from his initial venture, Show Sound, Lighting, and Staging, to establish Premier Global Productions. This move marked the beginning of a production powerhouse that would soon attract marquee clients.

Troy Vollhofer [02:17]: "I came up with that name in 1990 and I had a small company called Show Sound, Lighting and Staging. Hence, since we didn't do sound anymore, it didn't really work."

His first significant project involved lighting for Charley Pride in 1987, followed by tours with Dionne Warwick, Def Leppard, and Metallica, the latter of which remains a long-term client to this day.

Venturing into Festival Production: Birth of Country Thunder

Troy's expertise naturally extended to festival production, leading to his involvement with the Big Valley Jamboree in Camrose. By 1992, this collaboration evolved into the inaugural Country Thunder Saskatchewan, later expanding to multiple locations across North America.

Troy Vollhofer [24:13]: "We did the production, we do the lighting on it, we get the lighting contract and that was really, really awesome because now I'm starting to touch and a lot and I'm still playing hockey."

Under Troy's leadership, Country Thunder became synonymous with top-tier country music festivals, featuring legends like Alan Jackson, Reba McEntire, Kenny Chesney, and George Strait. The festival's growth continued despite challenges, including a pivotal acquisition in 2008 that expanded the brand to Wisconsin and Arizona.

Notable Moments and Anecdotes

Throughout his career, Troy has been part of numerous memorable events:

• Encounter with Kenny Rogers: At six years old, Troy met Kenny Rogers during a sound check and received his first autograph, a keepsake he treasures to this day.

  Troy Vollhofer [06:09]: "I remember meeting Kenny Rogers when I was six years old. First autograph I ever got."

• Liberace's Visit: A humorous story about Liberace admiring Troy's father's beat-up Mercury car highlights the camaraderie in show business.

  Troy Vollhofer [11:35]: "Liberace laughed and he loved it and he thought it was the funniest thing ever."

• Hockey Incident: A memorable fight during a Boston Bruins scrimmage solidified Troy's decision to pivot entirely to his production business.

  Troy Vollhofer [17:29]: "I actually won that one. I don't. I didn't win many in my career."

Philosophy and Passion for Show Business

Troy emphasizes the intrinsic rewards of being part of the entertainment industry, beyond mere financial gains.

Troy Vollhofer [00:07]: "There is something to say that still holds true is when that artist walks on stage and you have a venue full of people and they get on their feet... you're part of that."

He believes in the magic of live performances, where both artists and audiences experience a collective uplift, a sentiment that fuels his continuous dedication to the industry.

Rapid Fire Insights

In a light-hearted segment, Troy shares quick snippets about his early career and personal preferences:

• First Paycheck in Show Business: "$100."
• First Song Played on Guitar: "Surrender."
• Favorite Concert Before 21: Van Halen at Regina, Saskatchewan on September 22, 1979.

Reflections on Nashville's Music Heritage

Troy discusses the significance of Nashville's iconic venues like the Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Ole Opry, highlighting the need for younger artists to appreciate and uphold the city's rich musical legacy.

Troy Vollhofer [37:06]: "I think it's a very, very large part of the country music community... more of a tip of the hat to history and to the roots."

Conclusion

This episode offers a nuanced look into Troy Vollhofer's remarkable journey, illustrating how passion, perseverance, and strategic vision can transform personal interests into industry-leading ventures. From the exhilarating world of professional hockey to orchestrating some of the most celebrated music festivals, Troy's story is a testament to the power of following one's passion and adapting to life's unexpected turns.

For fans and aspiring professionals alike, Troy's insights provide valuable lessons on balancing diverse interests, building enduring relationships, and maintaining a steadfast commitment to one's dreams.

Connect with Country Thunder: To learn more about upcoming festivals, visit countrythunder.com and follow Country Thunder on all social media platforms. New podcast episodes drop bi-monthly—subscribe to stay updated on the latest conversations with your favorite artists.