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Tony‑winner Kelli O’Hara is coming home
As a child, O’Hara grew up in a family surrounded by music. Her grandparents listened to the Great American Songbook recordings of Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, and Ella Fitzgerald, while her mom introduced her to movie musicals and singers like Julie Andrews and Shirley Jones. “I also listed to country music and loved Keith Whitley,” O’Hara remembered. “Then there was Whitney Houston; I wanted to sing just like her but my voice was more suited to musical theatre. The first song I ever sang when I was 10 was Dionne Warwick’s ‘That’s What Friends are For.’ Then I quickly moved on to Rodgers & Hammerstein, Disney, coun‐try and classical. I even went through a Metallica phase!”
Kelli O’Hara is set to perform with the OKCPHIL on Feb. 2425.
See O’HARA, Page 15
When Kelli O’Hara left Oklahoma, she had no doubt New York City was the right move. Having grown up on the wind‐swept plains of Elk City and then later Deer Creek on the out‐skirts of Edmond, O’Hara had big dreams she was ready to follow.“Iremember having no doubts about leaving,” O’Hara said. “When I moved to New York City I somehow felt like I belonged there. But I’m not sure it really dawned on me I wouldn’t be moving back to Oklahoma where my family is.”
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Now the Tony Award‐winner will have a chance to per‐form a bit of Rodgers & Hammerstein early next year. She is coming home to perform “An Evening with Kelli O’Hara” with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic as part of the Chickasaw Nation Pops Series Feb. 24‐25 at Civic Center Music Hall.
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Last April, OKCPHIL presented “Star Wars,” with the orchestra play‐ing the iconic John Williams sound‐track to the original 1977 motion picture. It resulted in two sold‐out performances.“Audiencesshowed us they really like this kind of movie event,” Mickelthwate added. “So, we will present ‘Home Alone’ on Thanksgiving weekend, and then later in the season we will screen Marvel Studio’s ‘Black Panther’ April 28 & During29.” the Holidays, all roads lead home. This year, OKCPHIL presents an all‐new extravaganza called “Coming Home for Christmas” star‐ring legendary performer Michael Feinstein.“Thisis a show we are really excit‐ed about,” Mickelthwate said. “Christmas is all about family, so this one is for you, our OKCPHIL family. Michael Feinstein is a multi‐platinum recording artist and a five‐time Grammy nominee. He is such an amazing performer and interpreter of song.ThisChristmas show is an entire‐ly‐new concept and we cannot wait to celebrate with you the magic of theTheholidays!”thirdconcert surprise will be
The 1990 Christmas comedy film “Home Alone” makes its OKCPHIL debut Thanksgiving weekend, for one performance on Saturday, Nov. 26 at 8 p.m. at Civic Center Music Hall. The movie stars Macaulay Culkin as a precocious 8‐year‐old who is left behind when his family mistakenly goes on vacation without him.“‘Home Alone’ has become a holi‐day classic,” said Alexander Mickelthwate, OKCPHIL music direc‐tor. “After a Thanksgiving Day filled with turkey, and then the mad shop‐ping of Black Friday, this Saturday evening performance will give fami‐lies a chance to come together with a favorite Christmas movie. And hear‐ing the soundtrack performed live with the OKCPHIL will make it an entirely new experience!”
When the Oklahoma City Philharmonic announced its 2022‐23 season early this spring, several details were yet to be finalized. Now, OKCPHIL is going full‐steam ahead with some exciting new announce‐ments — including Kelli O’Hara, Michael Feinstein and a favorite holi‐day movie that’s become a family Christmas standard.
See
OKC Phil announces three more shows!
Alexander Mickelthwate, OKCPHIL music director, says he is excited for the 202223 season.
PHIL, Page 15
“An Evening with Kelli O’Hara,” at 8 p.m. Feb. 24‐25 at Civic Center Music Hall.“Kelli will take us on a musical journey through her life,” Mickelthwate said. “Growing up in Oklahoma, she had an array of influ‐ences. One of those was Rodgers & Hammerstein, and as we celebrate the 80th anniversary of ‘Oklahoma,’ we think our audiences will love see‐ing one of their favorite daughters perform selections from this extraor‐dinaryPreviouslymusical.”announced concerts include the season opener of the Inasmuch Classics Series, “Opening Night,” at 8 p.m. Sept. 17 at Civic Center Music Hall, with world‐renowned pianist Garrick Ohlsson. The Classics series also includes “Mahler’s Vienna,” “Bolero!” with guest conductor Joseph Young and legendary guitarist Pepe Romero, fol‐lowed by “Nordic Soundscapes.” The Van Cliburn International Piano Competition Medalist Daniel Hsu will be featured in the “Rite of Spring,” and percussionist Evelyn Glennie visits Oklahoma City for “Sight and Sound.”
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September 17 Ballet Under the Stars 7 p.m. Bring a picnic blanket and or your lawn chairs and join us for an evening of dance and music under the stars at Scissortail Park. For more information, visitScissortailokcballet.org.Park OKC Ballet
OKC Broadway
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The Hole Shebang 4‐7:30 p.m. Join the United Way of Central Oklahoma for a “hole” lotta fun during its 2022 campaign kickoff. It’s an exciting afternoon of cornhole compe‐tition, live music, food trucks and more. Scissortail Park United Way of Central Oklahoma
September 17 2022 St. Jude Walk/ Run 8 a.m. Sign up and find more information at fundraising.stjude.org or download the St. Jude Walk/ Run app. Wheeler Ferris Wheel and River Trails St. Jude Children’s Hospital
September 20 John F. Kennedy Community Service Award 7 p.m. Join us in recognizing Oklahomans whose philanthropy has served Oklahoma in lasting and significant ways. The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals making a pro‐found contribution. Lou Kerr is this year’s recipient. Phil Busey and Desmond Mason are the Community Service Award honorees. For more information and tickets, visit sfflc.com/jfk‐award.OmniHotel (100 Oklahoma City Blvd.) Santa Fe Family Life Center
At National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
September 15‑25 Oklahoma State Fair For a complete schedule, visit okstatefair.com OKC Fairgrounds
September 8
September 15
September 18 The Showroom Benefit 4‐7 p.m. OKC Rep’s event will honor Inua Ellams. Ellams returns for an intimate perform‐ance of his latest work “Search Party.” For more information, visit okcrep.org. Markham Building 512 N. Broadway OKC Rep September 20 Feed Babies Luncheon 11:30 a.m. Annual luncheon to benefit and celebrate Infant Crisis Services. For more informa‐tion, visit infantcrisis.org/feedbabies. At Infant Crisis Services
Civicokcciviccenter.com.atCenterMusicHall
September 9 Renaissance Ball 7 p.m. ‐ midnight The Oklahoma City Museum of Art is hosting its 46th annual ball which benefits the museum. The black‐tie event features cocktails, dinner and dancing. For more information, visit okcmoa.com/visit/renaissanceball.events/ OKC Golf and Country Club Oklahoma City Museum of Art
Tickets available
Broadway’s Tony Award‐winning musical is back on tour and coming to Oklahoma. Hairspray will feature a highly loved score of the musical’s biggest hits including “Welcome to the 60s” and “You Can’t Stop the Beat.”
11 a.m.‐2 p.m. The Annie Oakley Society is made up of women leaders and philanthropists who, like Annie Oakley, play a signifi‐cant role in shaping their communities while keeping the values and spirit of the West alive. For details, visit um.org/annie‐oakley‐society.nationalcowboymuse‐
Armstrong Auditorium Performing Arts Series
September 15 “Funny Women of a Certain Age” 7:30 p.m. Caroline Rhea joins forces with creator Carole Montgomery along with Missy Hall and Thea Vidale to create an evening of side‐splitting comedy live on‐stage in Oklahoma City. Tickets are available at Hudiburgokcbroadway.com.ChevroletCenter
Conducted by Alexander Mickelthwate
September 8
September“Hairspray”6‑11
OKC Broadway
September 17 Classics Opening Night 8 p.m. Featuring pianist Garrick Ohlsson and including Gabriela Lena Frank’s Escaramuza, Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 in E‐flat Major, op. 73, “Emperor“ and Richard Strauss’ Also Sprach Zarathustra, op. 30
For tickets, visit okcphil.org/concerts‐tickets or call (405) TICKETS (405‐842‐5387) weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., or (405) 774‐9868. Civic Center Music Hall OKC Philharmonic
Annie Oakley Society Luncheon
GENTRI ‑ The Gentlemen Trio 7:30 p.m. A dynamic group of tenors with music inspired by Broadway favorites mixed with classical repertoire. For more armstrongauditorium.org.information,ArmstrongAuditorium
September 22 Literary Voices 7 p.m. International best‐selling author and Pulitzer Prize winner Elizabeth Strout is the featured speaker during the Library Endowment Trust event. For more information, visit literaryvoices.org.
September 22 Taste of Northwest 6 p.m. The NWOKC Chamber’s annual food fest is themed Cirque du OK. For more information, visit nwokc.com. OKC Farmer’s Market Northwest OKC Chamber
Multiple Sclerosis Society
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nationalMSsociety.org/doc‐okc.visitOklahomaCityGolfandCountryClub
September 22 An Evening with Jose Feliciano 7:30 p.m. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with live music from Jose Feliciano at Oklahoma City Community College. For more information, visit occc.edu/pas. OCCC Visual and Performing Arts Center OCCC Performing Arts Series
September 29 Fashion for a Passion 5:30‐8:30 p.m. The OKC Chi Omega Alumnae Association hosts the fashion event ben‐efiting Hearts for Hearing. The festivi‐ties begin with wine and hors d’oeuvres, followed by a runway show and shop‐ping. For more information, visit hearts‐CKforhearing.org/events.&Co.,NicholsHillsPlaza
Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club Metropolitan Library System
September 30 OKC ZooBrew 2022 5:30 p.m. Join OKC Zoo for the state’s largest beer tasting hosted by the Oklahoma Zoological Society. More information at zoofriends.org. Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden Oklahoma Zoological Society
September 28‑October 1 “Bill’s 44th” Many styles of puppetry, raucous bal‐loons, and a cheeky piece of crudité all collide to examine the pitfalls of impa‐tience, the wonder of loneliness and the universal passage of time. For more information, okcrep.org.
Hearts for Hearing
Te Ata Theater at Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center OKC Rep
September 23 OKC Cattle Baron’s Ball 7 p.m. Join us for a “party with a purpose’’ which will feature live entertainment, live and silent auctions, games and raffles. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum American Cancer Society September 27 Music of Dreams and Angels 7:30 p.m. Brightmusic’s first concert features guest trombonist David Jackson playing works by various composers. For more information, visit brightmusic.org. First Baptist Church, 1201 N. Robinson Brightmusic
September 30 Dinner of Champions 6 p.m. The annual Dinner of Champions, Oklahoma City event, supports local programs that contribute to the quality of life to those affected by MS and to support national research initiatives seeking solutions to a disease that affects more than 2.3 million world‐wide. For more information,
October 12 Boots, Bandanas & Barbecue 6:30‐8:30 p.m. The event will include local cuisine and beer, as well as live music by the Tulsa‐native country group Voth. Guests can enjoy a silent dessert auc‐tion featuring a variety of treats made by local celebrities and some of Oklahoma’s finest bakers and restaurants.
Lyric Theatre
OCCC Visual and Performing Arts Center OCCC Performing Arts Series
October 5‑30 “The Rocky Horror Show” As one of Lyric Theatre’s biggest hits, “The Rocky Horror Show” returns to the stage with a new rendition in 2022. Tickets on sale atLyriclyrictheatreokc.com.PlazaTheatre
October 1 Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition and Sale
Oklahoma Women’s Alliance
Oklahomalyrictheatreokc.com/broadwaybash.visitCityGolfandCountryClub
Infant Crisis Services
October 15 Mahler’s Vienna 8 p.m. Featuring Von Suppe’s Overture to Morning, Johann Strauss’ On the Beautiful Blue Danube and Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 in C‑sharp Minor. Alexander Mickelthwate is the conductor. For tickets, visit okcphil.org/concerts‐tickets or call (405) TICKETS (405‐842‐5387) weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., or (405) 774‐9868. Civic Center Music Hall OKC Philharmonic
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Lyric Theatre
The Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition and Sale will showcase the skills of saddle making, bit and spur making, silversmithing and rawhide braiding.
Friends of the Mansion
October 8‑30 Saturdays and Sundays Haunt the Zoo 9 a.m. ‐4 p.m. Join us for the OKC Zoo’s trick‐or‐treat tradition as we celebrate the 39th year. Candy will be distrib‐uted at 13 candy locations and dis‐cover 20 themed booths along the trick‐or‐treat trail.
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
October 9 Felix Mendelssohn’s “Elijah” 3 p.m. Considered to be the one the most spectacular musical dramas, “Elijah” will be a joint collaboration with choirs from Oklahoma City University, with staging by Michael Baron from Lyric Theatre. For more information, visitCiviccanterburyokc.com.CenterMusicHall
October 14 Bingo for Babies
6:30‐11 p.m. The 9th annual Bingo for Babies will be hosted by the Young Professionals Board and benefit the Infant Crisis Services. This year’s southwestern‐inspired event will feature dinner, drinks, entertainment, a silent auction and bingo. For more information, visit infantcrisis.org/feedbabies.OKCGolfandCountryClub
October 9 Kyiv City Ballet 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Oklahoma City Community College will host the Kyiv City Ballet this fall in the troupe's only stop in Oklahoma.
Canterbury Voices
Oklahoma Governor’s Mansion For more information, visit Oklahomaboots‐bandanas‐barbecuefomok.org/event/Governor’sMansion
October 13 Broadway Bash 7 p.m. Mike and Susan Turpen are the co‐chairmen of Lyric Theatre’s second annual party. The even includes entertainment, declious food and wonderful company. For more infor‐mation,
Oklahoma City Zoo
October 15 OneVoice Brunch and Awards 9:30 a.m.‐Noon Join Oklahoma Women’s Alliance for the return of its OneVoice Brunch & Awards Ceremony. Since the founding of Oklahoma Women’s Coalition in 2009, the organization each year has present‐ed OneVoice ‐ an opportunity to reflect on the past year’s growth, celebrate achievements and community support. For more information, visit salliance.org/onevoice‐brunch‐awards‐okwomen‐ceremonyDevonBoathouse
OKC FRIDAY Community Magazine | 9
11:30 a.m. Join us for the 36th annual Hall of Honor luncheon recognizing Mark Beffort, Cathy Keating and Barry Switzer as they serve as role models for students at Oklahoma City University. For more information, visit hall‐of‐honor.okcu.edu/business/ OKC Convention Center
Civic Center Music Hall OKC Ballet
Oklahoma Commerce and Industry Hall of Honor Luncheon
October 24 Oklahoma City Golf Classic
OKC Broadway
October “Hadestown”25‑30
October 28 Haunt the Zoo All Grown Up 7 p.m. Haunt the Zoo All Grown Up returns this year with even more surprises and spooky delights! Adults 21+ are invited to a Halloween party with a haunt zone, sea lion presentations, food trucks, carousel, and music. For more information, visit okczoo.org.
October 18
Oklahoma City University
Mercy Health Foundation
October 19 Chamber Forum 11:30 a.m.‐1 p.m. Join us for the monthly Chamber Forum series from January through October 2022. Hear about the recovery of Oklahoma City's visitor economy and learn more about the exciting events taking place across the city. Chamber member tickets for $40 and non‐member tickets for $50. For more information, visit okcchamber.com. Vast, 333 W. Sheridan Ave. Greater OKC Chamber
As a winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards, ‘Hadestown’ promises a musical intertwining of two mythic tales. Check out this haunting yet hopeful experience with tickets available Civicokcciviccenter.com.atCenterMusicHall
Oklahoma City Zoo October 29 Starlight Ball 6:30 p.m. Come celebrate the 20th Starlight Ball in support of the Children's Health Foundation. This event is carnival‐themed and will celebrate the 40‐year anniversary of the Children’s Health Foundation. For more information, visit chfkids.com. OKC Golf and Country Club Children's Hospital Foundation
October 21‑23 Val Caniparoli's “Lady of the Camellias” A powerful tale of forbidden love between a wealthy Parisian Courtesan and a provincial bourgeois gentleman, “Lady of the Camellias” is a deeply romantic and tragic story of self‐sacri‐fice and class divides. For more infor‐mation, visit okcballet.org.
The 38th annual Golf Classic supports the Mercy Health Foundation. Registration available at Gaillardiafoundation.net.mercyhealth‐GolfandCountryClub
November 11‑12
November 2 Day One Luncheon
November 4 Go Red for Women Luncehon 11 a.m.‑1 p.m. The #OKCGoRed for Women campaign works to promote healthy lifestyles, build awareness for women's heart health and raise critically‐needed funds to support research and education initiatives. For more information,MeindersOKCGoRed.heart.org.HallofMirrors
November 1 Brightmusic Musical Transcendence
Harn Homestead Lyric Theatre
Armstrong Auditorium
November 10‑20 “The Great Leap” This play explores an American basketball team traversing through the cultural and political risks of raising your voice and standing your ground. See okcrep.org.
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11:30 a.m. The Day One Luncheon begins our 168 days of remembrance as we approach the 28th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing on April 19, 2023. More information at Oklahomamemorialmuseum.com.CityConventionCenter
This musical features the Tony‐winning book by Robert Horn to portray a comedic heaven. Check out tickets at Civicokcciviccenter.com.CenterMusicHall
November 10 Maxwell Quartet ‑ The Kilted Quartet 7:30 p.m. The Maxwell Quartet is now firmly regard‐ed as one of Britain’s finest young string quartets. Its music consists of classic quar‐tet pieces and original compositions. Go to armstrongauditorium.org.
November 12‑ January 1 OKC Zoo Safari Lights 5:30‐11 p.m. Feel the holiday cheer with animated light displays, festive treats, kid’s activities and weekend visits with Santa. For more infor‐mation, visit okczoo.org.
American Heart Association
t. Anthony Hospital Foundation
Performing Arts Series
November 17 Tree Lighting Festival 5‐7 p.m. Kickoff the holiday season and Downtown in December with this year’s Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival. The festival will take place in Bricktown and feature live per‐formances, free activities including photos with Santa, and the countdown to the tree lighting by Mayor David Holt. Bricktown Downtown OKC, Inc.
OKC Broadway
November 16‑December 23 “A Christmas Carol”
November 4 2022 Saints Ball: A Night in Paris 6:30 p.m. Join us for dinner, live and silent auctions, and live entertainment. For more informa‐tion,Sgivetosaints.com/events/saints‐ballNationalCowboy&WesternHeritageMuseum
Rodeo Hall of Fame Weekend
November 12 Million Dollar Quartet Christmas 2 & 6 p.m. Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley come together again to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. For more information, visit occc.edu/pas. OCCC Visual and Performing Arts Center OCCC Performing Arts Series
Oklahoma Project Women
November 18 Sister Cities Global LuncheonAchievement 11:15 a.m. The Board of Sister Cities International OKC, Inc. hosts the 2022 Global Achievement Luncheon. Secretary Bill Lance, Justice Yvonne Kauger, Major General Rita Aragon and Dr. William Parry are the honorees. Go to sistercitiesokc.org or call (405) Embassy886‐2886.Suites
OKC National Memorial & Museum
November 4‑5 Happy 90th, John Williams! 8 p.m. Join OKC Philharmonic in celebrating the 90th birthday of the legendary composer John Williams. For tickets, visit okcphil.org/concerts‐tickets or call (405) TICKETS (405‐842‐5387) weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., or (405) 774‐9868. Civic Center Music Hall OKC Philharmonic
Oklahoma City Zoo November“Bolero!”12 8 p.m.
For the last time at the Harn Homestead, Oklahoma’s favorite holiday tradition, Lyric’s “A Christmas Carol,” returns for its 12th year. In Charles Dickens’ timeless tale, three magical ghosts whisk the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge away on an unforgettable adventure of transformation and redemp‐tion. Tickets on sale at lyrictheatreokc.com.
The Rodeo Historical Society hosts the annual Rodeo Hall of Fame Weekend cele‐brating rodeo legends’ induction into the Rodeo Hall of Fame. For information,nationalcowboymuseum.org/moreexplore/rodeo‐hall‐fame‐weekend
The OKCPHIL Classics concert features guest conductor Joseph Young and guitarist Pepe Romero. Selctions include De Falla’s “Three‐Cornered Hat” and Ravel’s “Bolero.”
For tickets, visit okcphil.org/concerts‐tick‐ets or call (405) TICKETS (405‐842‐5387) weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Civic Center Music Hall OKC Philharmonic November“Tootsie”15‑20
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
November 10 Celebrate Pink OKC 11:30 a.m. ‐ 1 p.m. Join us for Celebrate Pink which is an annu‐al luncheon and fashion show that benefits Oklahoma Project Woman. For more Oklahomaoklahomaprojectwoman.org/information,celebrate‐pink‐okc.CityGolfandCountryClub
Te Ata Theatre ‐ Oklahoma Contemporary Oklahoma City Repertory Theatre
Board of Sister Cities International OKC November 26 “Home Alone” 8 p.m. The 1990 Christmas comedy film “Home Alone” makes its OKCPHIL debut Thanksgiving weekend. For tickets, visit okcphil.org/concerts‐tick‐ets or call (405) TICKETS (405‐842‐5387) weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Civic Center Music Hall OKC Philharmonic
7:30 p.m. Musical Transcendence includes the six‐movement Schubert Octet in F major, fash‐ioned after a septet by Beethoven. For more information, visit brightmusic.org. First Baptist Church, 1201 N. Robinson Brightmusic
Greater OKC Chamber
11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Our Women Who Care Share lunch‐eon is an opportunity for the com‐munity to come together in support of survivors and victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalk‐ing. For more Nationalwomen‐who‐care‐share.ywcaokc.org/events/information,Cowboy&Western
December 7
Downtown in December The annual winter experience includes festive events, outdoor attractions, performing arts, holiday shopping, family activities, toasty treats and refreshments, stunning light displays and much more. Many of the events are free and open to everyone, and organizers are con‐tinuing to keep the community’s health a priority.
December 1 Delirium Musicum ‑ Contemporary Baroque
December 8
December 6 Ranky Tanky 7:30 p.m. Concert performance from the quin‐tet group known as Ranky Tanky. For more info visit occc.edu/pas. OCCC Visual and Performing Arts Center OCCC Performing Arts Series
7:30 p.m. Delirium Musicum is a self‐conduct‐ed, ethnically diverse chamber orchestra dedicated to providing impassioned and engaging musical performances which deeply connect audience and musicians. For more armstrongauditorium.org.information, Armstrong Auditorium Performing Arts Series
Greater OKC Chamber
OKC Ballet
December 4 Canterbury Christmas 7 p.m. As an Oklahoma City tradition, Canterbury will fill the Civic Center with holiday joy and music high‐lighting the traditions and magic of Christmas in Oklahoma. For more information, Civiccanterburyokc.com.visitCenterMusicHall
December 30‑31 “Cats”‑ The Musical ‘Cats’ is a record breaking, Tony Award‐winning musical known and loved by many. This captivating musical has tickets available at Civicokcciviccenter.com.CenterMusicHall
Women Who Care Share Luncheon
OKC Broadway
OKC FRIDAY Community Magazine | 11
Heritage Museum YWCA of OKC
For more downtownindecember.com.information,
December 2‑3 Coming Home for Christmas 8 p.m. The holidays are all about family and friends enjoying the magical sights and sounds of the season. And at Christmas, all roads lead back home. The OKCPHIL presents a spectacular program of Holiday favorites with Grammy & Emmy nominee Michael Feinstein, Maestro Alexander Mickelthwate and your Oklahoma City Philharmonic! For tickets, visit okcphil.org/concerts‐tickets or call (405) TICKETS (405‐842‐5387) weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Civic Center Music Hall OKC Philharmonic
December 6 Chamber Connection 8:30‐10:30 a.m. Learn about Chamber's key initia‐tives while meeting other members. Join us and learn more about your company's investment in the cham‐ber. For more information, visitRACK59Nookcchamber.com.costtoattend.DataCenter
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
December 10‑18 “The Nutcracker” Oklahoma City Ballet’s traditional version of “The Nutcracker” has been enchanting audiences for decades, and this year will feature all new choreography by Acting Artistic Director Ryan Jolicoeur‐Nye. For more Civicokcballet.org.information,CenterMusicHall
Canterbury Voices
December 16 Cowboy Christmas Ball 5:30‐9 p.m. The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum will host the 25th annual Cowboy Christmas Ball fea‐turing American singer‐songwriter Michael Martin Murphey. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Annual Meeting 11 a.m. ‐1 p.m. Celebrating OKC and the Chamber's vision. The Annual Meeting focuses on the success of Oklahoma City and the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. Chamber member tickets for $75 and non‐member tickets for $100 at okcchamber.com.
OKC Broadway
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“The Book of Mormon” This musical comedy is a nine‐time Tony Award‐winning show which follows a pair of mismatched missionaries. Tickets avail‐able at okcciviccenter.com.
January 13‑15
Civic Center Music Hall
January 27‑28 Disney in Concert: Magical Music from the Movies 8 p.m. For tickets, visit okcphil.org/concerts‐tick‐ets or call (405) TICKETS (405‐842‐5387) weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Civic Center Music Hall OKC Philharmonic
January 27 Music of the Knights 8 p.m. A celebration of three of Britain’s most iconic songwriters featuring works from Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney. OCCC Visual & Performing Arts Center OCCC Performing Arts Series
January 26‑29 Under the Radar Festival Show to be announced For more information, okcrep.org.
January 17 “Musical Moments in Time’’
Te Ata Theater at Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center
The Brightmusic concert features guest pianist Sylvia Wang, includes three short pieces for piano, four hands, by Fanny Mendelssohn, Felix’s sister, and the C minor piano quartet by Brahms. For more information, visit brightmusic.org. First Baptist Church, 1201 N. Robinson Brightmusic
January 7 Classics ‑ Nordic Soundscapes 8 p.m. Alexander Mickelthwate is the conductor. The concert will feature Anna Thorvaldsdottir’s Aeriality, Bjork’s 3 Songs, Kjartan Sveinsson’s Credo and Sibelius’ Symphony No. 5 in E‑flat Major, op. 82. For tickets, visit okcphil.org/concerts‐tick‐ets or call (405) TICKETS (405‐842‐5387) weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Civic Center Music Hall OKC Philharmonic
Civic Center Music Hall OKC Broadway
January 1 “Cats” ‑ The Musical ‘Cats’ is a record‐breaking, Tony Award‐winning musical known and loved by many. This captivating musical has tickets available at okcciviccenter.com.
OKC Rep
OKC FRIDAY Community Magazine | 13
Celebrating its 50th Anniversary, “Jesus Christ Superstar’’ comes back to the stage with a new mes‐merizing production.
OKC Broadway
For tickets, (405)concerts‐ticketsokcphil.org/visitorcallTICKETS(405‐842‐5387)weekdays10a.m.to5p.m.CivicCenterMusicHall OKC Philharmonic February 24‑25 An
forms
visit Civicokcballet.org.CenterMusic Hall OKC Ballet
“Jesus Christ Superstar”
February 28 Step Afrika!
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OKC City Ballet most famous happi‐more information,
February 14‑19
Philharmonic February“Cinderella”10‑12 Join Oklahoma
February “Rite of Spring’ 8 p.m. Alexander Mickelthwate, conducter and Daniel Hsu, pianist. The concert will feature Johnn Greenwood’s Suite from “There Will Be Blood;” Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in B‑ flat Minor, Op. 23; and Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring Evening with Kelli O’Hara 8 p.m. Tony Award‐winner and Grammy nominee Kelly O’Hara is coming home! native per‐with your OKCPHIL, an exciting 80th Anniversary tribute to Rodgers & (405‐842‐5387)okcphil.org/concerts‐tick‐For“Oklahoma!”Hammerstein’stickets,visitetsorcall(405)TICKETSweekdays10a.m.to5p.m.CivicCenterMusicHall
ly‐ever‐after story ever conceived. For
February 15 Dublin Irish Dance ‑ Wings: A Celtic CelebrationDance
7:30 p.m. All the way from Dublin comes a new Celtic dance production which features Irish and World champion dancers representing the best Ireland right here in Oklahoma. For more armstrongauditorium.org.information, Armstrong PerformingAuditoriumArtsSeries
The Oklahoma
Tickets and more informa‐tion available Civicokcciviccenter.com.atCenterMusicHall
7:30 p.m. Step Afrika! is the first professional company ded‐icated to the tradition of stepping. The show blends percussive dance styles practiced by historically African American fraterni‐ties and sororities; tradi‐tional African dances; and an array of contemporary dance and art forms into a cohesive, compelling artis‐tic experience.For more information, OCCCoccc.edu/pas.visitVisualandPerformingArtsCenter OCCC Performing Arts Series
4 Classics ‑
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“I want my kids to know where I’m from and how I grew up,” she said. As she prepares for her OKCPHIL performance, O’Hara knows this concert will be different.
“When I was growing up in Elk City, the arts were more of an imaginative dream for me and less of a tangible thing,” O’Hara said. “I was a member of the band for years and did various camps and music contests. The first professional performance I ever saw was a Lyric Theatre pro‐duction of ‘Carousel’ starring fellow Elk Citian, Susan Powell. My parents took me to see her. But once I got to Oklahoma City University, my rela‐tionship to things like the OKC Philharmonic began to grow.”
Tickets and information on these and other OKCPHIL‐related concerts and projects can be found at OKCPHIL.org or by phoning 405‐TICKETS.
Friends and family have all been supportive over the years, O’Hara says, and championed her choices — in spite of how risky those choices may have initially seemed. As she makes her way back to her home state, she is proud to be working with a high‐caliber orchestra like the OKCPHIL.
The Oklahoma City Philharmonic can take you on a journey you might not even know you need, and I think we all need a little — or a lot — of what the OKCPHIL has to offer.”
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“Coming home to perform feels different than performing anywhere else in the world,” she said. “The personal connection runs very deep, and now, coming back home makes me feel a combina‐tion of scared and excited. My kids call it ‘skited!’ But it is full circle. It’s one thing to perform for an audience. It’s quite another to perform for those you know and love.”
performingdifferentperformhomeComingtofeelsthananywhereelseintheworld. O’Hara
“During college we were going to Bricktown before it was ‘BRICKTOWN,’” she said with a laugh.O’Hara said she and her family come back to Oklahoma as often as they can, usually for the holi‐days, during the summer and other times in between.
“I will always champion the arts, even for those who have no interest in a career in the arts — maybe especially for those who don’t,” O’Hara said. “The arts and music in general are an escape, an education, a challenge, a breath of joy, a cathar‐sis, and a gift. Music is the soundtrack to our lives.
While she was studying voice with her mentor Florence Birdwell, O’Hara was waiting tables at Macaroni Grill on Northwest Expressway. She and her friends also frequented popular hangouts of the day like Leslie’s Painted Desert, Ted’s Café Escondido and Bricktown.
The OKCPHIL presents the Emmy Award‐winning vocal trio “The Texas Tenors,” one of the most sought‐after musical acts, with a repertoire rang‐ing from classical to country to big band. This group was a fan favorite on the TV show “America’s Got Talent,” and has an extraordinary mass appeal Oklahoma audiences are sure to enjoy.“This will be such an amazing Mickelthwateseason,”added. “If you are a long‐time patron, we thank you for your support. If you haven’t been to one of our performances in a while, please come back—we would love to see you. And if you haven’t yet experienced all the wonderful music OKCPHIL has to offer, then you are in for a treat. We hope to see you soon!”
‑ Kelli
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The 1990 Christmas comedy film “Home Alone” makes its OKCPHIL debut Thanksgiving weekend.
“One of the biggest names in clas‐sical music is violinist Joshua Bell,” Mickelthwate said. “He will be here for one evening next April and we are so excited to bring him onto our stage!“Also, our Classics series includes ‘Oklahoma Stories,’ commemorating the centennial of civil rights leader Clara Luper,” he added. “We have commissioned a work by Hannibal Lokumbe, titled ‘Trials, Tears, Transcendence: The Journey of Clara Luper.’ We will present that during the final program of next year in May as a tribute to this extraordinary civil rights icon who made such a differ‐ence in the lives of so many Oklahomans.”TheChickasaw Nation Pops Series will be just as phenomenal, with a special 90th Birthday Tribute to leg‐endary composer John Williams, who has written some of the most iconic film scores in cinematic history, from “Indiana Jones” to “Jurassic Park,” “E.T.” to “Schindler’s List” and manyAnothermore.family favorite will be “Disney in Concert: Magical Music from the Movies.” For many, some of the earli‐est childhood movie memories involve a Disney film. Now, relive those memories as this wonderful production features four fabulous vocalists with our full orchestra, along with clips and images from original Disney movies.
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