Have you ever paid money to see a concert - and then watched as the headliner played 40 minutes or so and then hauled ass? Not fun.

Actually, though, that's the whole idea Friday when country superstar Hunter Hayes stops by New London's Garde Arts Center for a brief performance at 4:15 p.m. Friday. And, no, Hayes isn't being a Big Shot.

Instead, in conjunction with ConAgra Foods, Hayes' Garde stop is part of his "24 Hour Road Race to End Child Hunger." Starting Friday with an 8 a.m. Friday set on "Good Morning America," Hayes plans to do 10 shows in 10 cities in one 24-hour period - which would earn him a slot in the Guinness Book of World Records.

More importantly, Hayes hopes the junket will bring awareness to the significant problem of child hunger in the U.S. In conjunction with the "Road Race," the Child Hunger Ends Here outfit will try to break its own record for the most meals donated in 24 hours.

Yes, then, don't expect Hayes' usual two-hour-plus show. But every minute he plays will be more than worth it.

- RICK KOSTER

Hunter Hayes, 4:15 p.m. Friday, Garde Arts Center, 325 State St., New London; sold out; (860) 444-7373.