LTAC 21-22 Season Brochure by Lone Tree Arts Center

2021 2022 SEASON

PARTNERS & SUPPORTERS CORPORATE CIRCLE DONORS In addition to the generous sponsors listed for specific productions and programs, we would like to thank the following Corporate Circle donors for their support of the Lone Tree Arts Center.

PLATINUM

Dear Friends,

GOLD

A heartfelt WELCOME BACK to the Lone Tree Arts Center! The pandemic stopped us in our tracks last March, but not for long. With the support of the City of Lone Tree, our talented staff quickly pivoted to finding ways of delivering high quality performing arts programming. Our tech team swiftly became livestreaming experts, and when it was safe, we were one of the first theaters in the state to resume in-person programming through our outdoor Tunes on the Terrace series. What a thrill it was for all of us to see live music in person again!

SILVER

BRONZE

SEASON SPONSORS

PRESENTING SPONSORS

Scott Leonhart and Maggie Eichenlaub, Janet and Joel Kaufman, and Betty A. and Don E. Winslow

After a year of livestreaming and limited capacity performances, we’re excited to be back in person with our full Main Stage series, along with all of the programs that make such a difference for people in our community. And, we’re celebrating our tenth anniversary to boot! Since we opened our doors in 2011, the Arts Center has grown exponentially; we have you to thank for that. Whether you’ve attended a featured attraction on our Main Stage, a theatrical production, an Arts in the Afternoon performance, a children’s show through Passport to Culture or Seedlings, a sensory friendly performance, or a SPARK! session, or you’ve taken in the art on our gallery walls, you’ve helped us grow into the thriving organization we are today. You — along with our donors and our 150+ volunteer corps — sustained us over the past year, allowing us to reopen the Arts Center, and to program our most ambitious season to date. The 2021–22 season brings opportunities to see renowned popular artists — Keb’ Mo’, and Taj Mahal, to name a few — in an intimate setting. We’re bringing world cultures to you with Nai-Ni Chen

Dance Company, Masters of Hawaiian Music, and Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana. We’re launching a new jazz series with saxophonist Gerald Albright, one of the biggest stars of R&B, contemporary, and straight-ahead jazz, as Artistic Director. Our National Geographic Live series, which we were able to livestream during the pandemic, returns in person. And of course, we’re bringing back your favorites, like The Doo Wop Project and The HillBenders, for evenings filled with incredible music. Our holiday season has something for everyone, including perennial favorite Home for the Holidays — a tradition we can’t wait to resume! Our Arts in the Afternoon series for seniors thrived throughout the pandemic as we moved performances to livestreams. While we’ve returned to in-person opportunities, we’re excited to continue livestreaming for those of you who are not able to make it to the theater. Our SPARK! program continues to be strong through livestreaming, and we’ll return to in-person sessions when we’re able. We know that 2020 was a challenge for teachers, and we have a wonderful season of student matinees available when field trips are possible again, including an important new musical about how kids helped to secure voting rights for African Americans, Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom. Speaking of kids, we’re thrilled to restart our Seedlings series for toddlers this fall, and we’ve got some wonderful Passport to Culture and sensory friendly offerings planned for the entire year. We know you’ll be just as excited to see what’s coming to the Lone Tree Arts Center as we are to bring these artists to you. Have a look, and we’ll see you in the theater!

Cover photos: Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company: Anthony Alvarez; Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana: Christopher Duggan; other photos: submitted. 2

10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO 80124

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The HillBenders: WhoGrass

2021– 202 2

Friday, January 14, 2022

PRODUCTION SCHEDULE

René Heredia’s Flamenco Fantasy Theatre Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Special Event: The History of the Negro Baseball Leagues

An Evening with Andrea McArdle and Donna McKechnie

with Bob Kendrick, President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

Saturday, October 16, 2021

Thursday, July 15, 2021

October 20-24, 2021

An Evening with Michael Martin Murphey

National Geographic Live Isaiah Nengo: Before the Dawn of Humanity

Sunday, August 22, 2021

Keb’ Mo’

Jonathan Butler Friday, September 24, 2021

Doktor Kaboom and the Wheel of Science Tuesday, September 28 & Wednesday, September 29, 2021

Johnny A.: Just Me…And My Guitars A Celebration of the British Songbook of the ‘60s Saturday, October 2, 2021

Parasol Arts

National Geographic Live Maureen Beck: Improbable Ascent Friday, March 18, 2022

Taj Mahal Thursday, March 24, 2022

Chris Mann: From Gershwin to Gaga Celebrating the Tony Bennett Songbook

The Classical Bass

Classic Nashville Live Starring Jason Petty and Gail Bliss

Wednesday, November 10, 2021

Saturday, January 29, 2022

Saturday, April 9, 2022

The Finest Hour: An Evening of the Music That Ended WWII

Schoolhouse Rock Live!

Secrets of Space

Photo: Tim Trumble

with Davina and the Vagabonds and Hot Club of Cowtown

Monday, January 31, 2022

Monday, April 11, 2022

The Queen’s Cartoonists

Day-O: The Music of Harry Belafonte with Leonard Barrett, Jr.

Friday, February 11, 2022

Friday, November 12, 2021

Jerry Herman: The Broadway Legacy Concert

Photo: Lindsey Thoeng

Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company: The 2022 Lunar New Year of the Water Tiger

Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana: Latido

Saturday, November 13, 2021

Saturday, February 12, 2022

Sunday, April 24, 2022

A FACE Christmas

Love Changes Everything

Mayhem Poets

with the Colorado Chamber Players

Sunday, November 28, 2021

We Banjo 3: A Winter Wonderful

Photo: Valerie Fremin

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

A Kantorei Christmas 2021 Thursday, December 9, 2021

Home for the Holidays December 16–23, 2021

Wednesday, October 13, 2021

The Doo Wop Project Christmas Tuesday, December 28, 2021

Saturday, March 12, 2022

Masters of Hawaiian Music: George Kahumoku Jr., Led Kaapana, & Herb Ohta Jr.

Dez Rubano & Friends: A Tribute to Cole Porter

Tuesday, September 21, 2021

National Geographic Live Rae Wynn-Grant: The Secret Life of Bears

The Mary Louise Lee Band: A Tribute to Gladys Knight and the Pips

Sunday, March 27, 2022

Saturday, October 30, 2021

Jackie Robinson: A Game Apart

Sunday, January 23, 2022

Tuesday, March 8 & Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Friday, January 28, 2022

Friday, August 27, 2021

Friday, September 17, 2021

Friday, January 21, 2022

Boulder Philharmonic: An Evening of Gershwin Featuring the Marcus Roberts Trio

Friday, October 29, 2021

Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper

Gail Bliss: The Music of Patsy Cline

Photo: Emiliano Artigas

Saved By The Band

with Special Guests Brother Brothers

Wednesday, September 15, 2021

John Mueller’s Winter Dance Party: A Tribute to Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper

Discovering Antarctica: Heroic Tales of Shackleton, Crean, and Scott

10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO 80124

Thursday, April 28, 2022

International Guitar Night

National Geographic Live Thomas Peschak: Wild Seas, Secret Shores

Saturday, February 19, 2022

Friday, May 6, 2022

Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom

Smokey & Me: A Celebration of Smokey Robinson

Wednesday, February 16, 2022

Tuesday, March 1 & Wednesday, March 2, 2022

Saturday, May 7, 2022

The Great Guitars featuring Martin Taylor, Frank Vignola & John Jorgenson Saturday, May 14, 2022

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FEATURED ATTRACTIONS

For full descriptions, video, and photos, visit lonetreeartscenter.org

Special Event: The History of the Negro Baseball Leagues with Bob Kendrick, President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum Thursday, July 15, 2021 at 7:30pm “[The Negro Leagues] played such a pivotal role in the social advancement of America that most people don’t know. It’s so much bigger than the game of baseball.” —Bob Kendrick Back by popular demand, and with updated information now that the MLB is recognizing the Negro Leagues as Major League! Bob Kendrick wows audiences with his multimedia presentation about the history of the Negro Baseball Leagues—how players got their start, how they were treated in the league, and how they integrated into major league baseball. Bob returns with more stories of how the Negro Leagues changed the game of baseball, and America, with a behind-the-scenes look at how MLB came to the decision to recognize the Negro Leagues as Major League, and how they will go about integrating stats and records.

Gail Bliss: The Music of Patsy Cline Friday, September 17, 2021 at 8pm “Throaty and soulful with that trademark catch, Bliss truly captures Cline’s essence in her singing.” —TheaterJones LTAC favorite Gail Bliss returns! Endorsed by the Cline estate, Gail has performed the role of Patsy Cline in countless productions across North America since 1994. In this concert, Gail’s soaring vocals will do justice to some of Cline’s most famous and catchy songs. You’ll be “Crazy” for Gail Bliss!

Jackie Robinson: A Game Apart A Mike Wiley Production

Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at 6:30pm “More than mere versatility... It’s virtuosity.” —American Theatre Magazine

BRING THE FAMILY!

A Game Apart provides a glimpse of Jackie Robinson’s life during a bygone era of separate and unequal locker rooms, of whites only hotels, and of restaurants with only a back door for colored athletes to enter. Witness the hopeless humiliation of a star player who was showered with adulation on the field and became a second-hand citizen when he walked off the diamond. Meet Jackie’s compatriots fighting the same battles between the end zones, inside the ring and around the track. A Game Apart is a powerful lesson of courage through dedication, perseverance and leadership.

An Evening with Michael Martin Murphey Sunday, August 22, 2021 at 7pm “One of the best songwriters in the country.” — Rolling Stone The original Cosmic Cowboy and Americana pioneer, Michael Martin Murphey, returns to the Arts Center. Murphey launched his recording career from Austin in the early ‘70s with the classic album Geronimo’s Cadillac and went on to release multiple albums in the ‘70s culminating with the Platinum classic “Wildfire,” from the certified Gold Album Blue Sky Night Thunder. His career shifted to Country music in the ‘80s and he won an ACM Award for New Male Vocalist Of The Year. Over the course of his career, he has had multiple Grammy nominations, three gold albums, and one certified Platinum album. Don’t miss this special evening of hits such as “Geronimo’s Cadillac,” “What’s Forever For,” “Carolina In The Pines,” ”A Long Line of Love,” “Cowboy Logic,” and the Grammy-nominated “A Face in the Crowd.”

10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO 80124

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Johnny A.: Just Me…And My Guitars

A Celebration of the British Songbook of the ‘60s Saturday, October 2, 2021 at 8pm “Johnny blazed across the guitar neck, his fingers forming every possible chord imaginable, while controlling his many guitar effects to perfection. It was a stew of virtuosity that left the crowd in awe.” —Worchester Magazine Grammy-nominated, Boston Hall of Fame inductee Johnny A. is a spectacular performer guaranteed to mesmerize an audience with the first riff! Johnny has shared the stage with artists from B.B. King to Steve Vai and everybody in between, and has performed at such prestigious festivals as Eric Clapton’s Crossroads, the Montreal Jazz Festival, and Tokyo’s Fuji Rock Festival. Coming back to his roots, Johnny has developed an intimate solo performance celebrating some of the greatest, and most influential, guitar work in history. Taking on the British songbook of the ‘60s in a completely solo intimate atmosphere, this special evening is filled with some of Johnny’s favorite songs and stories, all of which have molded him into the musician and person he is today. Don’t miss this rare and unique opportunity to see one of America’s finest instrumental guitarists up close and personal.

Photo: Carol Rosegg

Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper Saturday, October 30, 2021 at 8pm “It’s obvious he was destined to become one of Bluegrass music’s contemporary stars.” — Boston Globe Michael Cleveland is considered one of the premier bluegrass fiddlers of his generation. Cleveland, who was born completely blind and as a child lost 80% of his hearing in his left ear, picked up a fiddle at age four, and his musical momentum began to propel him forward towards early success. His blistering prowess and technical fluency have since marked him as a sought-after musician, leading to performances with Bela Fleck, Vince Gill, Marty Stuart, Tim O’Brien, J.D. Crowe and the New South, Andy Statman, and The Kruger. Together with Flamekeeper members Josh Richards (guitar), Nathan Livers (mandolin), Jasiah Shrode (banjo) and Tyler Griffith (bass), Cleveland makes his way around the country performing festivals, clubs, and performing arts centers, delighting audiences, leaving them with jaws dropped in complete amazement.

An Evening with Andrea McArdle and Donna McKechnie

The Finest Hour: An Evening of the Music that Ended WWII with Davina and the Vagabonds and Hot Club of Cowtown

Saturday, October 16, 2021 at 8pm

Friday, November 12, 2021 at 8pm

“McArdle and McKechnie shimmered as only Broadway stars can while delivering material they love.” —Cabaret Scenes

“Davina Sowers is a one-of-a-kind performer whose singing… has a sassiness bearing some comparison to that of heart-thumping blues queens Ma Rainey and Ida Cox.” —Downbeat

“Hot Club of Cowtown swung light and tight, like tumbleweeds made of velvet.” —Rochester City Paper

Davina Sowers and the Vagabonds have created a stir on the national music scene with their high-energy live shows, top-level musicianship, sharp-dressed professionalism, and Sowers’ commanding stage presence. She’s been compared to Etta James, Amy Winehouse, Janis Joplin, and Betty Boop, but comparisons don’t suffice: Sowers is a true original. The Western swing- gypsy jazz trio Hot Club of Cowtown is inspired by the music of Django Reinhardt— which accounts for the “Hot Club” portion of their name—and the hoedowns,

traditional tunes, and Western swing-inspired music of Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys, represented in the “Cowtown” of their name. The Finest Hour is a celebration of the music of the end of the Second World War, when European jazz, western swing, blues, and pop energized dance halls and radio waves throughout the country. From Billie Holiday and Gene Autry to the music of Lester Young, Doris Day, and Bing Crosby, together these masters conjured an exquisite, never-to-be repeated “Finest Hour” in the history of American music.

Two of musical theatre’s legendary leading ladies team up for an evening devoted to the best of Broadway through the years. Andrea McArdle originated the title role in Broadway’s Annie, and since then she has developed into a powerhouse interpreter of musical theatre and The Great American Songbook. Donna McKechnie, a Broadway triple threat, having received a Tony for her performance in A Chorus Line, shines as she recreates her show-stopping performance along with celebrating other classic shows in which she has appeared. These two dynamic women, sharing their favorite songs and personal stories, make An Evening with Andrea McArdle and Donna McKechnie pure, profound pleasure…exhilaration in a spotlight!

Saved By The Band October 20–24, 2021 It’s a musical face-off like you’ve never seen before where we answer the eternal question: are ultimate boy bands or legendary girl groups the top of the charts? Join us for a high-energy, musical powerhouse competition where you decide who will take home the crown. Will it be our impressive Boy Band? Representing male artists from every decade such as: *NSYNC, Bruno Mars, Boyz II Men and even the Backstreet Boys. Will it be our extraordinary Girl Group? Representing every Diva from your favorite hits such as: The Supremes, Whitney Houston, Spice Girls and of course Queen Bey herself. Only you can decide! The newest creation from Starkey Productions invites you to sing, dance, laugh, and vote as we get SAVED BY THE BAND!

Photo: Ryan Saul

10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO 80124

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Jerry Herman: The Broadway Legacy Project

We Banjo 3: A Winter Wonderful

Saturday, November 13, 2021 at 8pm

“The joy is palpable when the music is of the Irish variety. And when you combine that with a typically uptempo bluegrass sound—We Banjo 3 labels its style of music Celtgrass—let’s say it makes for one fun night.” —Country Standard Time

“Mr. Show Business, the razzmatazz musical-comedy writer, a cheerful man whose life is dedicated to making people smile and feel good and leave the theater humming a show tune.” —Jerry Herman Jerry Herman was a legendary songsmith and master of the show tune. From Hello, Dolly! and Mame to Mack and Mabel and La Cage aux Folles, Herman lit up Broadway for decades with toe-tapping, soul-stirring musical moments. Now, he’s shared his legacy with a new generation. Starring a cast of New York’s top Broadway concert vocalists led by Scott Coulter (One Hand, One Heart: 100 Years of Bernstein; The Wonderful Music of Oz), Jerry Herman: The Broadway Legacy Project celebrates the songs and the stories of one of the giants of musical theater.

Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at 7:30pm

We Banjo 3 (WB3) hosts A Winter Wonderful, a special holiday performance celebrating the season. Debuting in the U.S. in 2012, Billboard Bluegrass chart-toppers We Banjo 3 have since fine-tuned their knack for seamlessly converging the shared and varied traditions of Americana, Bluegrass, and Celtic music with pop-sensible songcraft to create a truly unique and gratifying signature sound. The Galway, Ireland quartet — comprised of two sets of brothers, Enda & Fergal Scahill and Martin & David Howley — continually push musical boundaries while maintaining an unwavering devotion to the essential audience experience. Photo: Seth Lockard

A Kantorei Christmas 2021 Thursday, December 9, 2021 at 7:30pm “One of Denver’s foremost choirs… the full-bodied sound of the choir was stunning.” —The Scen3

A FACE Christmas Sunday, November 28, 2021 at 7pm “Soulful singing stands out above the crowd.” —Fringereview.co.uk Ring in the holidays with a fabulous, fun, festive holiday concert by the amazing all-vocal rock band Face! It’s a wonderful night out for the whole family and it’ll have your elf shoes tapping and your jingle bells ringing with the joy of the season! The band — using only their voices — meld popular tunes, complex harmonies, beat-box rhythms and more into captivating concert performances.

An Arts Center tradition, Kantorei returns for their annual holiday concert. Kantorei, or singers, formed in 1997 under the leadership of six friends who decided to form a choir capable of singing a broad range of a cappella choral music. Now in its 23rd full season of performing, the group has expanded into an auditioned ensemble of more than 50 volunteer singers under the direction of Artistic Director Joel M. Rinsema. Kantorei celebrates the season with a special performance of holiday favorites.

Photo: Scott Dressel-Martin

10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO 80124

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Home for the Holidays December 16–23, 2021 “Home for the Holidays is the kind of old-school variety show no one puts on anymore.” —Denver Post

SPONSORED BY

Holidays are about traditions, so restart yours with this hometown favorite! What better way is there to celebrate the holidays together again than with LTAC family favorite Home for the Holidays. There’s something for everyone in this beloved holiday spectacular: dancers, singers, holiday songs, and, of course, celebrity appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus. With an updated storyline for 2021 and a few spectacular surprises, Home for the Holidays is sure to delight and put you in the holiday spirit.

The Doo Wop Project Christmas Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at 7:30pm “The joy of the group’s performance was infectious, and it was clear the guys were having as much fun as the audience. ” —MD Theatre Guide Back by popular demand after 2018 and 2019 sold-out holiday performances! Three parts Jersey Boys, two parts Motown: The Musical and “not your grandma’s doo wop,” these five charismatic, handsome, triple threat Broadway stars—with their hot five-piece band—tear it up with musicality, dancing, and showmanship not found with any other group in the world! They “re-doo” classic Doo Wop songs from the ’50s and ’60s and make them sound fresh and new. They “doo” doo wop versions of contemporary pop hits by stars like Jason Mraz, Amy Winehouse, Adele, and Maroon 5, and in between they sprinkle in some “doowopified” Christmas classics. A perfect way to keep the spirit of the holidays going!

The HillBenders: WhoGrass Friday, January 14, 2022 at 8pm “The HillBenders prove to be the perfect group to execute this WhoGrass concept.” —Rolling Stone A chronological journey of The Who’s legendary catalog through the wood and wire of bluegrass instrumentation. Framed as a follow-up to The HillBenders 2015 acoustic interpretation of The Who’s TOMMY, WhoGrass now gives audiences a high-energy acoustic twist on the catalog of one of Rock ’n’ Roll’s greatest bands. From the early hits all the way through The Who’s discography, and even a peek into Pete Townshend’s solo career, the rolling banjo, intense dobro percussion, and thunderous vocals have even the biggest Who fans pumping their fists and singing along!

John Mueller’s Winter Dance Party: A Tribute to Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper Friday, January 21, 2022 at 8pm “Flawless” —Chicago Tribune From the same producers that brought you One Night In Memphis, spend an evening at a Winter Dance Party! John Mueller’s Winter Dance Party® is the official live and authentic re-creation of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and the Big Bopper’s final tour and the only show endorsed by the Holly, Valens, and Richardson estates. This high voltage performance features all the hit songs of the 50s era: “That’ll Be The Day,” “Peggy Sue,” “Oh, Boy,” “Rave on,” “La Bamba,” “Chantilly Lace,” and many, many more. Photo: Danny Lam

10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO 80124

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Masters of Hawaiian Music: George Kahumoku Jr., Led Kaapana, & Herb Ohta Jr. Saturday, January 29, 2022 at 8pm “Virtuosic keepers of a cultural flame. . . . Bringing folklore and cultural memory into a performance that unfolded as breezy entertainment.” —New York Times

Photo: John Henry

Escape the cold and spend an evening with three Slack Key Guitar Masters, featured regularly at Maui’s renowned “Slack Key Show®,” share Hawai‘i’s unique folk styles, with origins in the early 19th century Hawaiian paniolo (cowboy) culture and evolving into one of the signature sounds of contemporary Hawaiian music: Four-time Grammy-winner and master slack key guitarist George Kahumoku Jr., National Heritage Fellow Led Kaapana, known for his exceptional picking style on guitar and ‘ukulele, and master ukulele and Na Hoku and Hawai’i Music award-winner Herb Ota, Jr. come together for an evening of songs, stories, and Hawaiian aloha.

The Queen’s Cartoonists Friday, February 11, 2022 at 8pm “If you watch—and only watch— cartoons, you’re missing something!” —Chicago Tribune

Boulder Philharmonic: An Evening of Gershwin Featuring the Marcus Roberts Trio Sunday, January 23, 2022 at 1:30pm “Roberts stands as one of the most imposing pianists of the under-50 generation, his encyclopedic knowledge of jazz-piano history matched by a formidable technique and a keen ear for instrumental color.” —Chicago Tribune “[The Boulder Philharmonic is] a symphony of top-notch, talented professionals, easily clinching their hard-earned spot as one of the best professional orchestras in the state.” —ourcommunitynow.com Eminent jazz pianist Marcus Roberts and his trio add a stunning new dimension to Gershwin’s famous Concerto in F. Inspired by a suggestion from conductor Seiji Ozawa, Roberts and the trio have presented their unique re-imagining of Gershwin with orchestras around the world, including the Berlin Philharmonic. Opening the program is Gershwin’s vivid travelogue, An American in Paris, that inspired the film of the same name.

Is it possible to create jazz and classical music in the 21st century that appeals to everyone? Even people who normally wouldn’t go to concerts? The Queen’s Cartoonists present a concert for everybody — regardless of age, gender, or familiarity with the concert hall. The Queen’s Cartoonists play music from classic cartoons and contemporary animation. The performances are synchronized to video projections of the original films, and the band leads the audience through a world of virtuosic musicianship, multi-instrumental mayhem, and comedy. Expect the unexpected from repertoire that includes the Golden Age of animation, cult cartoon classics, modern animation, and elements of a musical circus!

Photo: Lindsey Thoeng

10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO 80124

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Turning 15 on the Road To Freedom

Saturday, February 12, 2022 at 8pm

“…This is so moving, so impressive, so stirring and informative—this is something that can make people realize their power.” —Amsterdam News

“With their intriguing choreography of traditional and modern Chinese dance, elaborate costuming, and a variety of music, the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company succeeded in delighting persons of all ages.” —Broadwayworld.com

Photo: Carol Rosegg

BRING THE FAMILY!

Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company: The 2022 Lunar New Year of the Water Tiger

It’s a festive gathering for the biggest holiday in the world: the 2022 Lunar New Year of the Water Tiger. Immerse your family in the sound of firecrackers, cymbals and drums that accompany the acrobatic lion dancers and be mesmerized by the vibrant colors from the motions of the endless floating lines of fabric, costumes and props that are created by the agile dancers and warriors. Choreographer Nai-Ni Chen has been making dances that bridge the richness of Asian artistic heritage and the dynamism of American dance for the past 30 years. In this celebration of the Year of the Water Tiger, she hopes that the steps her diverse Company takes raise awareness of the uniqueness of the Asian American perspective that is shaped by both cultures, and facilitates recognition of the Asian American contribution to the diversity of ideas in our society.

Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at 6:30pm

Filled with traditional and original Gospel and Freedom songs, Turning 15 on the Road To Freedom tells the moving and inspiring true story of Lynda Blackmon, the youngest person to walk all the way from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama on the Voting Rights March in 1965. Lynda was jailed nine times before her 15th birthday as she and her friends and neighbors fought alongside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to secure the right to vote for African Americans.

Discovering Antarctica: Heroic Tales of Shackleton, Crean, and Scott Tuesday, March 8, 2022 at 7:30pm

International Guitar Night Saturday, February 19, 2022 at 8pm “Despite over 20 years of touring, IGN has remained fresh with new guitar luminaries from around the world added each year.” —Anchorage Press The incredible longevity of International Guitar Night continues with its 21st Anniversary North American Tour, featuring Australia’s contemporary classical guitarist Stephanie Jones; traditional jazz guitarist and vocalist Eleonora Strino from Italy; two-hand “tapper” Alexandr Misko from Russia; and Germany’s Latin Swing master Lulo Reinhardt.

10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO 80124

“Aidan Dooley gives a compelling solo performance in this ripping good yarn about real-life adventurer Tom Crean… the charismatic Dooley recounts the riveting tale of an ordinary man who showed extraordinary courage.” —New York Daily News Set during The Golden Age of Antarctic Exploration (1901–16), discover the riveting true stories of Shackleton and Scott through the eyes of Tom Crean, who was at the center of three of the most daring and challenging expeditions to the great white continent — including Shackleton’s ill-fated Endurance expedition. This oneman production is an intimate piece of theater that reenacts the heroic endeavors with a blend of drama, humor, and a rich Irish storytelling style that takes you to the edge of your seat… and beyond!

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The Mary Louise Lee Band:

A Tribute to Gladys Knight and the Pips Saturday, March 12, 2022 at 8pm “Lee’s strength is her powerful voice.” —The Know The Mary Louise Lee Band is back with an all-new show featuring the music of one of Motown’s amazing artist/ groups, Gladys Knight and the Pips! After selling out the 2019 LTAC season opener with a tribute to Diana Ross, Mary Louise Lee ignites the stage once again lending her powerful voice to yet another one of music’s greatest living legends. With her amazing range, emotional fire, and sheer charisma onstage, Mary Louise Lee and her full band take you on a tour through some of Gladys Knight and the Pips’ most popular songs and some lesser-known melodies.

Chris Mann: From Gershwin to Gaga

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Celebrating the Tony Bennett Songbook Sunday, March 27, 2022 at 7pm “A bona fide breakout star!” —Huffington Post Join Chris Mann (The Voice, Phantom of the Opera) for an evening celebrating the long and diverse career of a living legend. From American Songbook and Broadway classics to Lady Gaga hits, Tony Bennett’s music reaches every generation and proves that truly, “Love is Here to Stay.”

Classic Nashville Live Starring Jason Petty and Gail Bliss Saturday, April 9, 2022 at 8pm

Taj Mahal Thursday, March 24, 2022 at 7:30pm “Still going strong at 77, Taj Mahal is a force to be reckoned with. He is a true musical master, a phenomenal songwriter, a gifted singer, and a virtuoso guitarist.” —Parklife DC Taj Mahal is a towering musical figure — a legend who transcended the blues not by leaving them behind, but by revealing their magnificent scope to the world. A brilliant artist with a musicologist’s mind, he has pursued and elevated the roots of beloved sounds with boundless devotion and skill. Then, as he traced origins to the American South, the Caribbean, Africa, and elsewhere, he created entirely new sounds, over and over again. As a result, he’s not only a god to rock-and-roll icons such as Eric Clapton and the Rolling Stones, but also a hero to ambitious artists toiling in obscurity who are determined to combine sounds that have heretofore been ostracized from one another. No one is as simultaneously traditional and avant-garde. A 2017 Grammy win for TajMo, his collaboration with Keb’ Mo’, brought his Grammy tally to three wins and 14 nominations, and underscored his undiminished relevance more than 50 years after his solo debut. Blues Hall of Fame membership, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Americana Music Association, and other honors punctuate his résumé. Don’t miss this opportunity to see a blues legend in an intimate setting.

10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO 80124

“The duo and five-piece band put all of their sincerity, enthusiasm and first-class talent into re-creating a traveling country music show of yesteryear...” —BlueRidgeNow.com Remember when June fell for Johnny and Loretta was just a coal miner’s daughter? Let Classic Nashville Live take you on a journey down memory lane with your favorite classic hits honoring the world’s most beloved country greats! Starring Jason Petty and Gail Bliss, Classic Nashville Live features renowned duets, such as “We’re Gonna Hold On;” “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man;” poignant tunes like “Crazy” and “Today I Started Loving You Again;” and gospel traditions such as “Will The Circle Be Unbroken.” Get swept back in time with songs made famous by Dolly, Hank, Patsy, Tammy, George, Merle and many, many more! Classic Nashville Live brings you some of the most unforgettable songs in country history just as they ought to be, just as you remember them from the radio.

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Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana: Latido

The Great Guitars featuring Martin Taylor, Frank Vignola & John Jorgenson

Sunday, April 24, 2022 at 7pm “A fresh and joyful take on traditional and contemporary flamenco.” —Theasy.com

Photo: Emiliano Artigas

Choreographed by José Maldonado, with an original score by Gaspar Rodriguez. Latido, meaning “beat,” is an investigation of life and connectedness. The Latido awakens everything — from the heartbeat that begins and sustains all human life to the compás, the dynamic web of rhythm, tones and poetry that grounds and unites flamenco artists. Using flamenco’s innate capacity to embody and express the full range of the human condition, Maldonado explores our emotional boundaries and humanity by seeking to reveal the artists’ innermost selves to the audience.

Smokey & Me: A Celebration of Smokey Robinson Starring Tony-Nominee Charl Brown Saturday, May 7, 2022 at 8pm

Saturday, May 14, 2022 at 8pm “[Martin Taylor] is one of the most awesome solo guitar players in the history of the instrument.” —Pat Metheny

Photo: Stephen Kearney

The Great Guitars featuring Martin Taylor, Frank Vignola & John Jorgenson traces its colorful heritage back to the 1970s when the legendary jazz guitarists of that era toured the world and recorded together. Awardwinning guitarist Martin Taylor, who replaced Herb Ellis to become part of the original group in the 1980s with the legendary Barney Kessel and Charlie Byrd, has revised the format for the 21st century enlisting two of today’s top jazz guitarists, Frank Vignola and John Jorgenson. Hear the three guitarists in solo, duet, and trio performances for an evening of musical fireworks.

“Charl Brown’s Smokey Robinson is as sweet as his voice is unique.” —The American As the story goes, Smokey Robinson, a founder of Motown and one of the producers of Motown: The Musical, went backstage on opening night to look for Charl Brown, the handsome young actor who portrayed him in the show. When he found Charl backstage, he came up to him, smiled and simply said, “Hello, Me!” This delightful story became the inspiration for a spectacular show that celebrates the life, music and career of acclaimed singer-songwriter Smokey Robinson, once pronounced by Bob Dylan as America’s “greatest living poet.” Join Tony-nominee (and Doo Wop Project member) Charl Brown to celebrate Smokey’s story and many of his biggest hits: both the ones he sang and the ones he wrote, including, “Shop Around,” “Going to a Go-Go,” “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” “My Girl,” “I Second That Emotion,” “Tracks of My Tears,” and so many more.

10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO 80124

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One of the biggest stars of R&B, contemporary, and straight-ahead jazz, saxophonist—and Colorado resident—Gerald Albright has earned his reputation as a “musician’s musician.” For our new Lone Tree Sessions series, Albright takes the helm as artistic director and curates legendary and emerging artists in jazz, R&B, and blues for intimate performances in the South Metro area. SPONSORED BY

Keb’ Mo’ with Special Guests

HAROLD AND ADA ANDERSON

Brother Brothers Friday, August 27, 2021 at 8pm

Jonathan Butler Friday, September 24, 2021 at 8pm “The unique talent of Butler is that he is equally at home as an R&B crooner as well as a guitar extraordinaire with his sweet yet stylistic instrumentals.” —MainlyPiano.com Ever since boyhood, Butler has been using his gifts of song, composition, and instrumentation to communicate the messages of his soul. Butler, an acclaimed guitarist and vocalist, has used music as a springboard from that boyhood in which he shared a threebedroom shack with his parents, 12 siblings, and another 13 nieces and nephews while growing up in South Africa. Known for his crossover blend of R&B, pop-jazz fusion, and worship music, he remains a captivating and powerful performer, pouring his heart into selections from his immense catalogue. His soaring, gritty but beautiful voice transports listeners to deeper realms both emotionally and spiritually. Butler’s latest album Close To You was inspired by the songbook of Hal David and Burt Bacharach.

10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO 80124

“Keb’ Mo’ has his own unique brand of the blues–part groove, part foot-stompin’, part heartwarming and downright beautiful.” —Rock and Blues Muse Four-time Grammy winner and roots storyteller Keb’ Mo’ is the modern standard bearer of the Delta blues tradition, bringing a big back beat, a storyteller’s eye, and an ample dose of soul to his modern take on the country blues. Born Kevin Moore in Los Angeles, Keb’ Mo’ is one of the most celebrated blues artists of his time. Mo’s collab-orators include such legends as Bonnie Raitt, Jackson Browne, Taj Mahal, and B.B. King. His new album Oklahoma won the 2020 Grammy for Best Americana album.

Lone Tree Sessions: Additional Performance to be Announced Be sure to check the website lonetreeartscenter.org to find out the special guest in this series, chosen by Gerald Albright. It will be a night of music you won’t want to miss!

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Live talks and incredible images presented by the adventurers themselves!

Photo: Isaiah Nengo

Isaiah Nengo: Before the Dawn of Humanity

Maureen Beck: Improbable Ascent

Friday, October 29, 2021 at 8pm The Lake Turkana Basin in northern Kenya, a site of extraordinary archaeological evidence for all stages of human development, is considered an incomparable window into our past. Paleoanthropologist Isaiah Nengo conducts fieldwork there to search for the ancestors of apes and humans in Africa. Among his groundbreaking discoveries: the 13 million-year-old infant ape skull nicknamed Alesi—the most complete primate skull in the history of the field. Join Nengo for a glimpse into the intriguing, wideranging implications of his research and discover the surprising twists and turns of our human story along the way.

Friday, March 18, 2022 at 8pm Paraclimber Maureen Beck learned how to rock climb one-handed through trial and error — one of her early adaptive climbing innovations involved taping a metal ladle to her arm. It wasn’t long before she was tackling some of the hardest climbs by a one-handed athlete, securing two world championships in the process. In her constant pursuit of new challenges, she journeyed to Canada’s Cirque of the Unclimbables to attempt the first unassisted adaptive climb of the Lotus Flower Tower. With her trademark humor and wit, this 2019 National Geographic Adventurer of the Year will chronicle her journey as one of the foremost leaders in the sport of paraclimbing.

Rae Wynn-Grant: The Secret Life of Bears Friday, January 28, 2022 at 8pm Rae Wynn-Grant has dedicated her life to ecological research and conservation. As a scientist with National Geographic Society’s Last Wild Places Initiative, she works to protect and restore iconic wildlife populations, including North American black and grizzly bears. But when the wild lands of their habitat are crisscrossed by roads, fences, and ranches, how can bears and humans coexist peacefully? Dr. Wynn-Grant intends to find the answer.

Photo: Kris Ugarriza

Thomas Peschak: Wild Seas, Secret Shores Friday, May 6, 2022 at 8pm For Thomas Peschak, sharks aren’t a reason to get out of the water— they’re a reason to get in. The National Geographic photographer has paddled kayaks alongside great white sharks in South Africa, swam among hundreds of one-ton manta rays in the Maldives, and kept pace with massive whale sharks in the Arabian Sea. Go on a world tour of marine biology through his awardwinning images and engaging take on the ocean’s charismatic creatures. CHILDREN’S PRICING (18 AND UNDER) AVAILABLE. See order form fold-out page at back of program for details.

SPONSORED BY

Photo: Thomas Peschak

Photo: Tsalani Lassiter 24

10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO 80124

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STUDENT MATINEES Jackie Robinson: A Game Apart A Mike Wiley Production Tuesday, September 21, 2021 A Game Apart provides a glimpse of Jackie Robinson’s life during a bygone era of separate and unequal locker rooms, of whites only hotels, and of restaurants with only a back door for colored athletes to enter. Witness the hopeless humiliation of a star player who was showered with adulation on the field and became a second-hand citizen when he walked off the diamond. Meet Jackie’s compatriots fighting the same battles between the end zones, inside the ring and around the track. A Game Apart is a powerful lesson of courage through dedication, perseverance and leadership.

Doktor Kaboom and the Wheel of Science

SPONSORED BY

Tuesday, September 28 & Wednesday, September 29, 2021 So much science, so little time. . . Doktor Kaboom is having trouble picking his favorite science demonstrations, so he’s bringing them all! Unfortunately there are way too many to do them all in one show. The solution: The Wheel of Science! Doktor Kaboom has built a great big spinning wheel and labeled it with everything from optical illusions to chemical reactions to a homemade hovercraft, and more! At least a dozen fantastic demonstrations ready to go. Wherever the wheel stops, that’s what’s next! Will we turn a water bottle into a rocket or catapult bananas across the stage? Electrocute a pickle or create artificial gravity? Who knows? No two shows will be the same. So, step right up, and let’s spin that wheel!

Schoolhouse Rock Live! Monday, January 31, 2022 Academic subjects will never seem boring again when presented through mega-hits like “Conjunction Junction,” “Just a Bill,” “Interplanet Janet” or “Three is a Magic Number.” This live performance centers around Tom, a nervous young man on his first day of being a schoolteacher, who turns on the television to calm himself down and is visited by three aspects of his personality who remind him how learning can be fun. Childsplay Theater brings the classic Saturday morning cartoons to life. Originally aired on the ABC television network from 1973-1985, then revived in the 90s and 00s, Schoolhouse Rock was a collection of clever, animated shorts that taught academic topics including grammar, mathematics, civics and science. Schoolhouse Rock Live! explodes onto the stage updated for a whole new generation with imaginative image projections and a rock’n’roll feel.

Turning 15 on the Road To Freedom Tuesday, March 1 & Wednesday, March 2, 2022 Filled with traditional and original Gospel and Freedom songs, Turning 15 on the Road To Freedom tells the moving and inspiring true story of Lynda Blackmon, the youngest person to walk all the way from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama on the Voting Rights March in 1965. Lynda was jailed nine times before her 15th birthday as she and her friends and neighbors fought alongside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to secure the right to vote for African Americans.

Secrets of Space

SPONSORED BY

Monday, April 11, 2022 Suni and Mae are dreamers. As young girls, they dreamt about journeying far beyond our solar system, singing among the stars and discovering all that was unknown to them: the secrets of space. Using magical illusions and a state-of-the-art digital LED wall, the sisters and the audience embark on an interactive journey across the galaxy. Performed by Cahoots NI of Northern Ireland, the wonders of outer space are explored with dazzling imagery and key ideas and inventions in science, technology, and engineering. Secrets of Space has been developed with leading space industry experts and features curriculum connections for primary school audiences in STEAM learning.

Mayhem Poets Thursday, April 28, 2022 The Mayhem Poets are among the nation’s best spoken word performers. Called “an amazing ride” by The New York Times, this mind-boggling performance was described as “The Simpsons meets Malcolm X at a Notorious B.I.G. concert.” These theater-trained, comically-gifted, lyrical virtuosos seamlessly blend raw elements of hip hop, theater, improv and stand-up comedy to tell gut-wrenching truths that leave audiences altered forever.

SPONSORED BY

The Tappan Easton Foundation

Photo: Tim Trumble 26

10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO 80124

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ARTS IN THE AFTERNOON Arts in the Afternoon is an hour-long program that usually takes place once a month on a Wednesday afternoon at 1:30pm. The series features some of the finest classical, jazz, dance, and other performers from the metro Denver area and beyond. Each show includes

a significant educational component, with the professional musicians or their narrators sharing historical and artistic insights about the music they play. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and conversation with artists after select performances.

Dez Rubano & Friends: A Tribute to Cole Porter with Special Guest Pete Barbutti Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at 1:30pm Experience the music of Cole Porter in a tribute like no other! A staple of the Denver jazz scene in years past, drummer Dez Rubano returns, along with an all-star band. Porter’s lyrics were cleverly artistic and poetical; we’ll focus on them before we hear the beauty of the music and lyrics together with the full band and vocalists. Comic/conductor Pete Barbutti makes a special appearance to join in the fun.

Parasol Arts: Tango Portraits of Love Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at 1:30pm Tango Portraits of Love is an exploration of love and human relationships through narration of poetry, lyrics, and philosophy, and Argentine Tango. Thought provoking, funny and moving. Parasol Arts is a professionally operated non-profit organization for dancers, musicians, vocalists, and creative artists who have achieved recognition in their respective fields of study and seek to collaborate on unique and original theatrical productions. By bringing together the talents of these artists in highly artistic performances, Parasol Arts endeavors to reach new audiences and introduce them to the joy and passion of Argentine Tango.

The Classical Bass Wednesday, November 10, 2021 at 1:30pm The double-bass doesn’t always play back-up: sometimes, it gets a leading role. In this program of chamber works, the bass appears center stage. A quintet led by Phillip Stevens with strings and piano wouldn’t usually require a bass, but Schubert’s beloved “Trout” Quintet does. By the way, there’s nothing ‘fishy’ about the music, other than the song from which Schubert borrows a melody. In all, it’s a program of music narrated by Betsy Schwarm that makes the most of lower-pitched instruments, with lots of beautiful melodies along the way.

Home for the Holidays Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at 1:30pm Holidays are about traditions, so restart yours with this hometown favorite! What better way is there to celebrate the holidays together again with LTAC family favorite Home for the Holidays. There’s something for everyone in this beloved holiday spectacular: dancers, singers, holiday songs, and, of course, celebrity appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus. With an updated storyline for 2021 and a few spectacular surprises, Home for the Holidays is sure to delight and put you in the holiday spirit.

10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree, CO 80124

René Heredia’s Flamenco Fantasy Theatre Wednesday, January 19, 2022 at 1:30pm Legendary local flamenco guitarist René Heredia’s Flamenco Fantasy Dance Theatre brings the heart and soul of Spanish gypsy flamenco to the Main Stage, complete with colorful costumes, castanets, stomping feet, and fiery passion. With roots in Granada, Spain, René was surrounded by masters of flamenco dance and music from birth, became a flamenco guitar virtuoso in his teens, and performed internationally with the world’s most renowned flamenco dancers. Upon moving to Colorado in 1968, Heredia formed Flamenco Fantasy Dance Theatre to bring the authentic sounds and sights of flamenco to the Denver region. In this performance, three dancers blend light, graceful arm movements, syncopated hand-clapping, and powerful, synchronized foot work to the beautiful music of talented flamenco guitarist Andréana Cortés, René’s niece. Don’t miss the mystery, emotion, and soul of authentic flamenco. Olé!

Love Changes Everything with the Colorado Chamber Players Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at 1:30pm “Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” —Lao Tzu The Colorado Chamber Players presents a program with music about the transformative power of love. On the program will be works by Johannes Brahms and Clara Schumann, who inspired each other through a loving and lifelong friendship; and romantic music by African-American composers Jessie Montgomery and Duke Ellington.

Discovering Antarctica Wednesday, March 9, 2022 at 1:30pm Set during The Golden Age of Antarctic Exploration (1901–16), discover the riveting true stories of Shackleton and Scott through the eyes of Tom Crean, who was at the center of three of the most daring and challenging expeditions to the great white continent — including Shackleton’s ill-fated Endurance expedition. This one-man production is an intimate piece of theater that reenacts the heroic endeavors with a blend of drama, humor, and a rich Irish storytelling style that takes you to the edge of your seat… and beyond!

Day-O: The Music of Harry Belafonte with Leonard Barrett, Jr. Wednesday, April 20, 2022 at 1:30pm One of the most successful Jamaican-American pop stars in history, Harry Belafonte was dubbed the “King of Calypso” for popularizing the Caribbean musical style with an international audience in the 1950s. His breakthrough album, Calypso (1956), is the first million-selling LP by a single artist. Fly to Jamaica with Leonard Barrett, Jr. and a fine Caribbean band led by Donna Debreceni.

For additional spring dates and more information, visit

lonetreeartscenter.org/aita SPONSORED BY

PATRON SPONSOR LINDA BJELLAND

S ENIOR L IVING at R IDGE G ATE

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TREE

ART

For current listings, please visit: lonetreeartscenter.org/seedlings

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SPARK! is a free program offered in conjunction with the Alzheimer’s Association

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RT O P S P A S to R E TU L U C L

Engage young children in arts, culture, and science in this fun and imaginative series. Designed for parents and caregivers to introduce toddlers to the arts in a fun way, this monthly program continues to grow. With shows that explore everything from instruments to animals, you and your child will love this series!

S CE

Passport to Culture is a program specifically designed for children and families to experience arts and culture outside the classroom and inside a world of imagination. Passport to Culture is an entertaining way to foster the growth of visual and performing arts, science, and cultural understanding in our community.

for people experiencing mild memory loss, early stage Alzheimer’s, or a related dementia, and their family, friends, and guests.

For current listings, please visit: lonetreeartscenter.org/passport-to-culture SPONSORED BY Chinese New Year

Everyone is welcome at the Lone Tree Arts Center!

THE TAPPAN EASTON FOUNDATION

LTAC invites those on the autism spectrum as well as those with other intellectual or developmental challenges into our safe, welcoming, and judgment-free environment. Sensory friendly performances are designed to share the joy of the performing arts with those who have not felt welcomed before.

accessible. These changes include lowering the volume of the performance, dimming the audience lights just halfway, allowing individuals to leave and return to their seat throughout the performance, and encouraging patrons to wave their hands rather than applaud. Removing startling noises and keeping the audience visible will help make the shows more comfortable and enjoyable for all.

Modifications will be made to these performances to make the shows more

For current listings, visit lonetreeartscenter.org/ sensoryfriendly