“This is her third time here, and every time she sells out,” Peplowski said.

Underwood first performed at the Breslin in 2008, then returned in 2010. With her 2013 tour, she brought up-and-coming pop/country star Hunter Hayes to town.

Although he released his first album in 2011, Peplowski said the tour put him on the map for country music fans.

“When her tour was first announced, he wasn’t necessarily that big of a deal,” she said. “She really recognized what a talent he is — his popularity has just soared.”

Hayes kicked off the concert with a few songs from his self-titled album, including “Wanted” and “Storm Warning.” Underwood emerged onto the stage in a black and white feathered dress, gliding around the audience on a moving platform throughout the concert.

Among many college students, Hayes, who is only 21 years old, has become known as a heartthrob. Finance freshman Audrey Garneau is no exception.

“I love him,” Garneau said. “He’s marrying me, he just doesn’t know it yet. I don’t even have words to describe it.”

Underwood had her own set of dedicated fans. Environmental sciences and management junior Mackenzie Tocco has seen her perform four times prior to Saturday’s concert.

“I love her music,” she said. “I’ve been following her since American Idol. She always puts on a lovely show.”

Mike Brand, the executive director of Wharton, said Michigan has held a strong market for country music, with the Breslin’s location playing a key part in sales.

“With this tour, it was logical to bring her back here again this year because everyone can get here faster than on one side of the state or the other,” Brand said.

Despite the genre’s popularity in the state, Peplowski said Underwood’s music reaches outside the realm of country music.

“She has that crossover appeal,” she said. “American Idol is such a draw for people, not only in the country music genre but also with pop music.”

Photographer Katie Stiefel contributed to this report.