Fall/Winter 2022/23 also inside: > ScenesBehind-the-Stories > Theater for Kids > Meet our Friends > Sponsor Spotlight Tootsie Aida Cuevas The Music of Sam Cooke Bluey’s Big Play
Your place for natureandmusic,art,CrystalBridges | Five centuries of American art The Momentary | Contemporary visual & performing arts
We are glad you are here and encourage you to take a few minutes before the curtain opens to learn more about Walton Arts Center’s commitment to invest in and serve our great Northwest Arkansas community.
Brock KellyMarkJaclynMarybethGearhartHaysHendersonPowerSudduth
Walton Arts Center Council
Peter B. President/CEOLane
We are in the business of telling stories, and it is a glorious business indeed. From the President/CEO
Jeff Clapper
Sarah ColleenGaryChairDieboldPetersSecretary/TreasurerBriney
It really is an amazing story! As always … Enjoy the show!
Peter B. Lane Walton Arts Center President/CEO
Walton Arts Center Foundation
The live performances that you will see at Walton Arts Center this season – whether they are dance, music or theatrical – each tell a story. Those stories connect us, entertain us, show us that we are not alone and give us empathy for one another. For me, experiencing these stories through art connects us to each other.
Sometimes we are so focused on helping artists tell their story, we don’t do a good job of telling our own story. That is something we are changing in OnStage this season. We are embracing our role as storytellers and sharing with you behind-the-scenes stories about our shows, the performers and our staff. We are also telling you stories about those who volunteer and those who are served by the important mission of Walton Arts Center.
4 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
Anne ScottLiaJustinEleciaShelleyEldaCalKarenChrisJudithShabanaMervinLauraRyanJodyTonyMattMeganMartiCaseyNateChairO’Leary-KellyHodneViceChair/ChairElectHamakerSecretary/TreasurerSudduthViceChairTimberlakeViceChairTranthamViceChairWallerViceChairDildayHarringtonJacobsJebarajKauserMcKennaNicholasRobertsRoseScottSimmonsSmithTennantUribeVarady
This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without permission. Contents © 2022. All rights reserved. Produced by DOXA/VANTAGE.
Winnie the Pooh
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waltonartscenter.org 5
Legally Blonde The Musical
15 Visual Arts at Walton Arts Center
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33 ’Tis the Season for Entertainment! Sponsor Spotlight: Procter & Gamble Winnie the Pooh: A Heartwarming Tale for All Generations Bringing Your Kids to the Theater The Art of Film Giving Back to the Community Meet Our Friends Media Partners OnStage Advertiser Index
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empowering her wregional.com/herhealth479.463.5500
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Tootsie Robert Cray
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10 Walton Arts Center Friends
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16 Tootsie: From the Screen to Stage Friends of Broadway Representing Our Community on Our Stages
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22 The Show Can’t Go On Without Our Volunteers Volunteer Thank You Helping Shows Hit the Road: Legally Blonde The Musical Cocktail Classes: Mix it Up Before the Show – Literally! Social Feed
Event Calendar
8 Our Sponsors
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At Washington Regional’s HerHealth Clinic, we’re committed to empowering every woman on her health care journey because we know that giving a woman the resources she needs to take control of her health can empower her life. Whether it’s gynecology services, prenatal care, childbirth, infertility treatments, birth control, or specialized treatments and procedures, we’re here for women of all ages.
19 Making the Arts Welcoming for All Live Music Lives at Walton Arts Center
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30 Staff Spotlight: Meet Our Production Manager Staff Leadership
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10x10 Arts Series
Winnie the Pooh
Acoustic Rooster’s Barnyard Boogie Starring Indigo Blume March 5, 2023
Tootsie Jan 17-22, 2023
Chick Corea Afro-Caribbean Experience with Elio Villafranca & Friends
April 16, 2023
Edward Simon’s Femeninas:
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My Fair Lady
Winnie the Pooh
March 30, 2023
Gaelic Storm We Missed You Tour Nov 15, 2022
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Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra
The Pirates of Penzance April 1, 2023
A Conversation with Fran Lebowitz Nov 29, 2022
Procter & BroadwayGambleSeries
BalletContemporaryComplexions
Hadestown May 23-28, 2023
Complexions Contemporary Ballet
Aquila Theatre’s Pride & Prejudice Oct 27, 2022
KidsKellogg’sSeries
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Windmill Theatre’s Hiccup!
Land ConcertO’LakesSeries
Nov 20, 2022
Time For Three . Jan . 24, 2023
New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players’
The Robert Cray Band Sept 27, 2022
Duwendé April 14, 2023
Oct 21-22, 2022 Bluey’s Big Play Dec 20-21, 2022
Million Dollar Quartet Christmas . . Dec . 2-3, 2022
Oct 14-16, 2022
The 5 Browns Jan 14, 2023
Aida Cuevas 45th Anniversary –Yo Creo Que Es Tiempo with Mariachi Aztlán Oct 20, 2022
The Songs of Latin American Women Dec 16, 2022
The Music of Sam Cooke - The King of Soul Jan 30, 2023
6 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
The Swingles Dec 4, 2022
Artosphere Festival Orchestra
Legally Blonde The Musical
STAR DUST: From Bach to Bowie March 16, 2023
NightCoca-ColaOut Series
Moulin Rouge! The Musical Feb 9-12 & Feb 14-19, 2023
Oct 8, 2022
LADAMA
Chick Corea Experience with Elio Villafranca
Ulysses Owens Jr.’s Generation Y March 4, 2023 Brianna Thomas Sextet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 7, 2023
April 20, 2023
Welcome to our 2022/23 Season!
Chicago Fran Lebowitz
Herb Alpert & Lani Hall
May 16, 2023
Jan 27, 2023
Amina Figarova Quintet
StarrlightUnilever Jazz Club
Visceral Dance Chicago
Sept 15, 2022
Pretty Woman: The Musical Sept 20-25, 2022 Chicago Nov 8-13, 2022
Aug 9-14, 2022
Indie Films Central and South Asia
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April 23, 2023
Madagascar The Musical
April 15, 2023 W Dickson Street / Fayetteville, AR 72701 Located just inside the West Ave entrance
March 10, 2023
Jan 13, 2023
Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives
The Snowman: A Family Concert Dec . 11, 2022
WAC & SoNA Present
Indie Films Artosphere
Pride Showcase
The Jungle Book
Jan 10, 2023
March 11, 2023
Butterfield Trail Village offers more options that come standard, more activities and amenities at your fingertips, and more choices than any other active senior living community in the area – all in a beautifully maintained neighborhood setting.
Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Annie May 5-7, 2023
LOL@WAC
Phone: 479 443 5600 The Nutcracker 1923 E. Joyce Blvd. | Fayetteville, Ark. 479.695.8011 | Cottbutterfieldtrailvillage.orgagesApartments Village Homes CARRIAGE CLUB
Call to schedule your private consultation and tour today. Your Best
Spamilton: An American Parody
Hocus Pocus
Jan 6, 2023
Nov 25-27, 2022
May 12, 2023
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James McMurtry Dec . 8, 2022
VoiceJam Competition
Planning for a move to the perfect retirement community doesn’t happen overnight, but as a Carriage Club member, you’ll get to enjoy a range of premier amenities – before you move in! Planning
The Texas Gentlemen
Davina & the Vagabonds
Trike Theatre, Ra-Ve Cultural Foundation and Dhirana Dance present
David Sedaris
Walton Arts Center Box Office 495
More
Jan . 28, 2023
Arkansas Filmmakers Showcase
Oct 30, 2022
A Letter for Elena
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Family Fun Series
March 25, 2023
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David Sedaris
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June 22, 2023
April 25, 2023
Oct 6, 2022
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Film@WAC
Retirement waltonartscenter.org 7
Tig Notaro
Menopause the Musical
Lilly Hiatt Band
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
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The Polar Express Dec 23, 2022
Halloween Party . Oct . 31, 2022
Jan 26, 2023
West Street Live Presented by Neal Pendergraft
Cate Brothers Oct 28, 2022
June 2-3, 2023
June 23, 2023
Damon’s BBQ
Catering Unlimited Central Distributors Con CoreQuesosBrewing & Distilling
Southern Glazers
Nellie B’s Bakery and Eatery Plomo Quesadilla Bar
PerformingLevelLevelContributingLevelSupportingLevel 8 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
BriarBostonBordinosAtlasArsaga’sArkansasAlchemySpringsMacaronsWine&SpiritstheRestaurantMountainBrewingRose
Directing
MoonMeiji Distributors
Deep Branch Winery Ella’s Table
De Nux Distributors
UrbanTheo’s Cellar Winery
Wiederkehr Wine Cellars
The Bloody Buddy
Wright’s BBQ
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Post Shake’sSassafrasRockWineryTownDistillerySpringsWineryFrozenCustard
Thank You Sponsors & Funders! ProducingLevel Level
N O R TH W EST A R K A N S A S A TTORNEY S : 4 3 7 5 N O R TH V A N T A G E DRI V E, S U ITE 405, F A Y ETTE V ILLE, A R 72703 | 4 7 9 .58 2 5 7 1 1 A Whole Step Above N W A R KANSA S | TULS A | OK C | DAL L A S | HOUSTO N | W A SHI N G TON, D. C V I C KI B R ONSO N | J OHN E L R O D | R O B E R T JONES, II I | KE R R I K O B B E M A N | TODD LEW I S | EM I L Y MIZEL L A M B E R P R I N C E | J O R GE R OD R I G UEZ | G R E G S C H A R L A U | JOHN S C OT T | A M Y WI L B O U R N | G. A L A N WOOT E N ONLINE.UARK.EDU W E’RE I N I T FOR YOU. WH AT EVE R YOU’RE IN IT FOR, 100 W Dickson St. | 479.442.6262 | collierdrug.com Serving families in Northwest Arkansas since 1917. Bring your ticket to our Dickson St. location before or after the show for $5 off an OTC or gift purchase. waltonartscenter.org 9
Longer Investments Inc.
Paul & Linda Pinneo
Terryl & Shannon Ortego
DashNancyNanJamesDavidLanceMikeAmandaKarolynRichardDavidTimothyTerryWilliamLamarDonSusanBarbJimmyJacobDr.RalphBarryJennyBartMikeSteveConnieStevenChristiRobertJamesKeithPatrickJacquiCoBareCattFoundationFamilyFoundationPlumbingBrandli&DougCummins&HollyBrannan&BeckyBrink&SalenaBrownBurns&CrisHamer&JeffByronCharlesR.Ph.&BillClark&SuzanneClark&SandyCockrell&HeidiCohenCoogan&DebraCooksey&CamCrouchKatherineDarling&BrittanyDeans&LisaDeen&DougDegn&JoeDelacruzDeweese&JoyDrummonds&DorisDuBoseEdwards&BrendaAlison&StephanieEnsley&CathyEvans&SuzanneEzell&DonaldFarrellFerm&CarolynFincher&KellyFoster&JaneGearhart&AmyGilmoreGingerGarner&MortGitelmanGoff Douglas Goff Albert Gray Chris & Casey Hamaker Howard & Treva Hamilton Al & Dorothy Hanby Todd & Majorie Hanus Linda & David Hargis Joe & Mary Ruth Harner John & Lynne Hehr Mark Henneberger Mary Jo & Paul Henry Brad & Kathy Hicks Eddie & Retta Hight Curtis Howells Joan & Wm Bruce Johnson Terry & Mike Johnson David Joliffe & Gwynne Gertz Bob & Linda Kelly Johnna & David Kosnoff Stephanie Stephens Alicia RobertLevy&Vella Lewis David & Sue Maddox Seth A. Malley & Luke Bridges Jeffrey Mann Cathy & Steve Marak Bill & Sabra Martin Chris May Dr. Jay & Judy McDonald Brian & Melonie Moore Dr. Steve & Linda Nelson Ron & Susan Neyman Tim & Rhonda O’Donnell Anne O’Leary-Kelly Madeline O’Toole and her loving family Perry AndrewRoofing&Laura Plaukovich Ed & Tish Pohl In loving memory of Bernice Harner from Rickie & Nancy Porter & Family Barbara & Doug Prichard 10 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
Bob & Diane Shaw
Roger Collins
Dick & Anne Booth
Eric & Elda Scott
$18,000+ PrudyBox&Dale
Judith McKenna & Phil Dutton
Thank being
David & Candace Starling Bill & LeAnn Underwood Willard & Pat Walker Charitable Foundation
Banks Family Mary & George Benjamin
Kent & Nancy Blochberger
James & Emily Bost
Hershey & Denise Garner
Dick & Margaret Rutherford
Tony
Arts Center Friends
Kara & Brett Biggs Cynthia Coughlin
David & Deborah Thomas Malone Nichols Family
The Reed Family
Jason Viator
Raymond & Katie Burns
John
Sandy Edwards
Bryan, Kristen, Brady, Brock, & Brooklynn Billingsley
Wendy KatherineBennett&Curt Calaway
Lindsey & Brock Gearhart Lyle & Sue Gohn
Frank & Sara Sharp
Joel & Lynn Carver
Nick & Carolyn Cole
Rick & Marybeth Hays
Don & Debra Harris Family Charitable Trust
Jerry & Brenda Walton
Dr. Anthony & Susan Hui
Terry & Mary Ann Klefisch
Ed & Carol Clifford
The Tim Ogg Family
Larry & Laurie Armstrong
Pruitt Tool & Supply Company, Inc.
Barbara B. Shadden
Murray & Judy Harris
Serrhel & Patty Adams
Carol Barnett
Bob & Becky Alexander Kelly & Marti Sudduth
Dennis & Evelyn Shaw & Kitten Weiss
The Gray Family
Peter B. Lane & Barbara Putman
Reed & Mary Ann Greenwood
Caudle
$25,000+
Diana Marshall
Jen & James Beck
Pete & Shirley Esch
ChandelierWalton
Bozie AntonEllisMarybethRickTomCynthiaPaulaJohnelleMalcolmFoundation&EllenHaywardHuntJenkins&LeeBrownJones&JillKing&TracieLayton&MickyMayfield&KayMelton&LindaMyers
Wade & Kelly Jones
Shelley Simmons & Stacie Underwood’sBurleyFine Jewelers
$3,000+
Walton Arts Center Council Board and Foundation Board members denoted in bold
Dr. Martin & Lisa Porter
Harrison & Rhonda French Andrew & Martha Frits
Sidney & Mirela Vinson 8th & Walton
Michael & Shannon Arcana
James & Barbara Freeman
Ann Marie Ziegler
Gary & Carol Adams
David & Pam Parks Mary Lynn Reese
Kent & Teresa Webb
Larry Bittle Insurance Agency, Inc.
Cece
Billie Jo Starr | Starr Foundation Waller
Brock & Natalie McKeel
Bob & Theresa Arvin
Aaron & Cindy Alexander Henry & Amy Alvarado
Todd & Melissa Simmons
Michael White & Bao Bui
Jon & Joanie Dyer
Bryan & Mandy Hunt
you for
Rebecca Hurst & Jim Smith
Debby Nye & Catherine Lyon
$10,000+ & Mina Baledge
Bob & Debbie Bradberry
Elizabeth Phillips
Sharon Wasson
$1,300+
Jeff & Joy Rhodes
Frank & Pat Bailey
a light! $50,000+Spotlight
The James Burton Blair Family
Hannah & Greg Lee
Chuck & Suzy Fehlig
Carole & Jim Williamson
$6,000+
Jim & Lynne Walton
Les
Linda L. Wray
Jerry & Cherie Moye
Susan & Orville Hall
Biff & Ann Averitt
Greg & Rachel Billingsley
Michael E. Hill & Gary Fast Dr. Michael Hollomon & Eric Wailes
Michael & Marlena Bond
Nadine K. Carfagno
Elaine Briggs
Doris Marks
Butch & Christie Ginther
Don & Kathryn Stroessner
Paula Burks & Bill Edwards
Jeff & Sara Koenig
Tony & Jill Law
Nick & Laura Luchi
Wendy LorraineBrant&Dennis Brewer
Perry & Shirley Franklin Carla Crawley & Joel Freund Liz Fulton
Richard & Anna Marie Steeneck
John & Tamara Roberts
Joshua Ridgeway & Caleb Vega
Maurice & Maya Bowie
David & Linda Ferrell
Mike & Pam Thorn
Robert & Melissa Brown
Andy & Stacy Barron
Larry & Nancy Long
Gene & Debi Buckley
Beverly & Charles Lee
Mark & Dalicia Emerson
Travis & Callie Embry
Don & Donna Johnston
Ray & Brenda Boudreaux
Louis & Patricia Beland
Chuck & Lisa Bowman
Heather Kees Fern Kelsay
Dave & Becky Schoewe
Dr. David & Becky Seidl
Tom & Barbara Verdery Matt & Katie McClanahan
Carolyn J. Smart Judge Jim & Dixie Spears
David Fish Bill & Laura Flesher
Libby & Bart Schaller
William & Ann Justiss
Mark & Michel LaCrue
Teryl Hampton Jebaraj & Mervin Jebaraj Mary Beth Shields & Kyle Jenner Ann Jeter
Brian & Heather Barger
Gene & Cheryl Long
Anabelle Steelman-Berry & Ron ChristopherBerry & Tracy Berry
$600+Limelight
Kevin & Kara Gardenhire Ed & Mary Lou Garrison
Mrs. Carl (Lee) Johnson Theresa Johnson
Jan & Doug Kent Cheryl Kester
Rigo & Laura Gomez
DonHillaryJulieDwightJasonRachelleRobAngelaInCarrieWilliamBusterMaryIrmaDavidMartin&JoMartinson&DuellMathisMay&KariMcCall&KimMcComasMcDanielMemoryofAstrid&ErnstSeifenCourage&TomMellott&KathyMerry-ShipMilamMiller&BrandyMitchell&JerryMoody&TaylorMorganMoseley Cody & Gara Mosier James & Angie Muldoon David & Betty Nichols Andy & Joan Noble Larry & Marilou Noller Ernie & Gayle Olsen Murphy & Carol Pair Larry & Susan Patrick Randall & Mary Payne Larry & Tommi Perkins Kathy & Rick Pierce Patrick & Carolyn Pio Darrin & Marci Pitts Jimmy Plumlee & Lee Long Sandy PamelaPoore&Paul Prebil Marshall Prettyman & Judy Dunleavy David & Carol Ratcliff Carey & Bud Reeves Heather Rekhi In Memory of Roger Gross George & Kathey Rhoads Paul & Tracy Rice Randy & Tia Risor Deborah & Darrell Robinson Randy & Anna Robles Lynn B. Rogers James & Andrea Romine Matt & Jamie Romine David A. Russell Linda Rye & Randall Webb Robert James & Joe Sidney Kate OmerDustinDougJamesJamesRachelMalloryChuckStuJaymeKenRonBrianLarryDorisSchifanoA.Schuldt&JulieShackelford&LynnShaw&RegenaShelby&CeliaShireman&ErinSmith&DebbieSorensenSteger&SheldonSteinert&ZachStrickland&MarshaSwimSwindleTalbott,Jr.&MarthaMorrison,MD&JessicaTempleTorewaltonartscenter.org 11
Susan & Randy West
Mrs. Don Bishop
Charles Lincoln
Brantly Houston Jose
Tim & Jennifer Alderson Gary & Melanie Alecusan
Todd Barlow
John & Carolyn Leonard
Todd
Jon P. CatherineRobinson&Stephan Roche
David King Jay & Julie King
Sarah Bell & Sarah Clinard
Robert & Elizabeth Stauffer
Martha Sutherland
Michael & Patty Stiles
Tom & Dana Dykman Justin & Sara Eichmann Gar & Debby Eisele
Robert & Courtney Green Linda & Sam Gutierrez Kelly & Kim Hadley
Phillip Baldwin
Jim Bob & Kelly Britton
CalvinJohnRisaCherylHuertaHullHunterJackson&Shawna Jarrett
In Memory of Christina Rae Dr.ShelbyBrewerRogersKenton&Jennifer Ross
Roy & Amanda Madrid Dr. Ann-Marie Magre
Bernard Levitt
Leslie & Tom Gordon Custom Powder Coating Services
Ron & Sonja Burkett
Jeffrey Williams & Janet RobertGracieTodDanCarolMichellePenner-Williams&JamieWolfeSue&AlanWootenL.WorrellYeslow&JackieTelfair&MichaelZieglerA.Zierak
Philip & Mary Ann Taldo
Dr. Michael & Mary Jane Bolding
Whit & Lindsay Karnes
Robert & Rachael Tovey Dick & Nancy Trammel Kelly SteveTucker&Susan Tucker
Donale & Yvette Bell
Walton Arts Center Council Board and Foundation Board members denoted in bold
Sarah Lewis & Kelly Tribell
Michael & Eileen Lieber
Heather & Tony Cook Pat
AR & Laura Gant
Shawn & Jalane Lee
Marian G. Bolen Family
Kay LarryJones&Kimberly Jones
Dick & Mary Stockland
Regions Bank
Lance HeroncrestHeiligeratElmdale
Peggy Treiber & Jeremy Hess Jim & Debbie Hodges Tina & Nate Hodne
Bill & Judy Gregson Schwab
James Spencer & Susan JoyceParks-SpencerStafford& Jack Cole
Carol Vella
Debbie Alsup
Samantha Cage
Adella & Gary Gray Wilma & Ed Gray
Susie Arnold & Bruce Strom
Ken & Karen Kolls
Robert D. Luper
Tony & Mary Beth Sherman Barb SandraSiegerSims & Maggie Cook
David & Linda Ann Bragg
Richard & Paula Carlson
5GTomDonRichClayNancyBrianLeAnnJimJamesCooperCorrell&KathyCounce&SteveCox&DayCrowneCullins&AnnDavis&KimDavis&KellyDeSoto&KathyDubaConsulting
Jeanneane King Kerri Kobbeman
Joe & Catherine Ross
Pattie & David Williams
Jim & Susan Von Gremp Bill & Nancy Waite Gary & Shea Weidner
Jim & Suza Jordan
Jim & Margaret Antz
Chet & Susan Caldwell
Martha & Mark Haguewood Anne & Tim Hartney Jennifer Hefler
Estate
Barry & Judy Katz
In Memory of Cameron Bobbitt Bachman Family
Mike & Debi Thurow
In Memory of Mary L. Gibbs Don & Carol Lynn Gibson Geoff MartinGibson&Betty Gilbert
Dax & Kari Weindorf
Wayne & Carol Brantley Greg & Robin Forbis
Barbara G. Taylor
Priscilla Kumpe
The Liles Family
Rob & Becky Brothers
Thomas Ward, Jr.
Jim & Kay Pickett
John Gaudin & Corky Patton
Don & Shannon Walker
Jill
Marketing Tessa PatrickMiner&Peggy Moriarity
Duane & Allison McElroy
Jerry & Judy Davison
Craig & April Shy
Thomas M. Triplett
Tyson Foods, Inc Walton Enterprises Walton Family Foundation Walmart Foundation
Clifford & Jane Lyon
Walton Arts Center Council Board and Foundation Board members denoted in bold
Mark & Mimi Blackwood
In Memory of Jerry Olsen & Joan Threet Kenneth & Susan Tonymon
Gen W. Broyles
Robert & Deidre Martin
Dennis & Patti Sanders
Robert & Wendy Harding
$300+
Mark & Debbie Griffin
David Douglas & Anastasia
Derrik & Julie Olsen
Rick & Terri Warren
Bret & Stacey & Jan Family & Mary Storey & Jason Suel
Col. (Ret) John F. Brewer, Jr.
Drew Workman
Archie & Suzanne Ryan
Rex Vaughn
Gary & Athina McLendon
Marv & Donna Wiseman
Bob & Carol Brooks
Ron & Kitty Burton
Josh Murphree
Amy & Caroline Wilbourn
Heather Agerton
Jason & Andrea Trout
Michael & Jacque Allen
Bob & Sheila Suvino
Sumner & Jackie Brashears
Dr.
Leslie Cowles
David Walton
Marsha Jones
All contributions to Walton Arts Center Council, LLC a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Listings are current as of July 1, 2022. If we have inadvertently omitted your name or you would like your name to appear in a different way, please let us know so we can make that correction for the Winter/ Spring 2023 OnStage edition. For information about becoming a Friend, call 479.316.7511 or visit
Anna & Michael Watts
Tom & Susette Cole
Tom Madeline & Rachel & Judy &
Walton Arts Center thanks the following companies and foundations for matching their employees’ donations to the Friends Annual Giving Program.
Tom Zhang
Bob & Kathy Welsh
Shelley Tustison
Park Mel
Tena & Mark Larsen
Laureen Benafield
Bob & Patty Besom
Don & Claudette Hunnicutt
Corinna & Alan Dranow
& Jean Jacobsen Mike & Kim Johnson Pooja & Ajay Joshi Greg & Pam Kiser George & Vicki Knight Peter & Judy Kohler Mike & Stephanie Krupka Cody Long Isaac Long Bob &
May Scott HarveyMcCollum&Sharon McCone Bob
Brent & Teresa Campbell
Lee & Janice Van Allen
Scott & Cheryl Williams
John & Tamara Gilmour
Angela & Randy Ryan
Rebecca Summerlin
McMurtrey Ozark Sales
Lou Phillips
In Memory of Patricia Ellison
The Bloodworth Family
Marquette Warren & Kim Massey Kyle
Arkansas Community Foundation
waltonartscenter.org/friends 12 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
Jim Vawter & Nancy Eslick
Edward Jones
Ron & Susan Tucker
John & Karen Cole
Michael & Kim Holly Bart L. Howell
Phillip & Oteeka Baker
Walton Arts Center Council Board and Foundation Board members denoted in bold
Craig & Leslye Wilson
Todd & Emily Wulf
Tanner & Jaclyn Henderson
Dane & Michelle Workman
The Clorox Company Foundation
Kathryn Widder
Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund
Betty Williams
Terrica Weatherford
Don & Maxine Bechtel
Greater Horizons IBM SchwabKimberly-ClarkCorporationCharitable Foundation
David Carlisle, MD & Wendy Taylor Carlisle
Richard & Jennifer Alexander
Jackie & Jana Bays
Bank of America Charitable Gift Fund
Gary & Bonnie Martineck
In honor of MBL Architecture
JacquelineOwenTomJeromeDavidInMarciaJamesGlenGabeRichardCandisDebbieJohnDaleTheCarolGayleLindaJamesJuneSarahStrokovaDuffelWestDuke&BettyEzellMcKennonSmith&BillFinerFochtman&GrimsleyGrahamGrandFamily&MarilynGreen&TinaHagbergHallHarrellHiggins&HunterHollingsworth&AnnHopkinsA.&AngelaHopkinsB.ImbeauMemoryofGeorgeSpencer&ShannonInglis&HarrietJansma&CathyJanuaryJohnsonS.King John & Sally King Timothy A. Kral & Connie L. GarnettLarryVictorChrisElizabethLarryGarySharonRichardKathyTammyJeanneTheAlfredCharlieGeorgiaMaryTomMrs.EarnieDebbiePaigeDavidBethBurnisMorannayaHendrix-KralKulinkLeavensKeck&KenLeonard&LinneaLillquistMann&MasonMcLoud&DonaMontgomeryGinaNida&SallieOverbeySuePrice&BillRoss&ShirleyRussellAngulo,Jr.&MarySandersSchmiedingFoundationSilvestri&TomSmithSprouse&TereseStatonThomason&JuliaThorn&DebbieTuttleWashington&MelissaWickA.&MonicaE.Wilson&EleanorWinter&JulieWise $75+ Ms. Essie Anderson John ThomasRachelArthurBaker&Joanne Blount Derek & Lynsay Brautnick Jim & Mary Buchanan Richard Bushkuhl Tim & Lynn Culver Marsha Daniel Donnie Ewald Emily KathleenFourmy&Fred Fullerton Gelbach Family Missy ChristinaGocio&David Gray Nancy DerekRandyKarenGarryKeithPatrickGuisingerHaines,KatiaRojas&family&BrendaHallHenbestHughes&CynthiaHutchinson&AndreaJackson
Allison Griffino
John
Karen L. Welch
Read & Tammy Hudson
$150+
Bud
The Croken Family
Jim & Jerene Cross
Marilyn & Joel Newcome
Phillips Roy
Texas Presbyterian Foundation
Ed & Angie Baker
Jenifer Tucker
friends@waltonartscenter.org479.316.7511waltonartscenter.org/friends ++++ waltonartscenter.org 13
LIKE YOU, WE’RE 100% FOCUSED ON PROUDPERFORMANCEPEAKTOSUPPORTWORLD-CLASSARTSANDWORLD-CLASSCAREINNWA OFSPONSORPROUDTHE ARTSWALTONCENTER (479) 443-5851 | PCIAwealth.com 3790 N. Bellafont Blvd, Suite 2 | Fayetteville, AR 72703 Colangelo(Scott)_PCIA_WaltonArtsCenter_Playbill_AD_42354819_0722.pdf 1 7/19/22 9:13 AM Supporting the Arts in Northwest Arkansas 14 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
Located adjacent to Walker Atrium at Walton Arts Center, Joy Pratt Markham Gallery is free and open to the public 60 minutes before every performance, during intermission and 10am until 2pm weekdays
local art experts. This season’s guest exhibition curators are local artist Kathy P. Thompson and Gerry Snyder, executive director and distinguished professor of art at the University of “ShowcasingArkansas.
was a Fayetteville visual artist, teacher and philanthropist. After graduating from the University of Arkansas, she studied under George Bellows at the Art Institute of Chicago. Markham left a gift to the University of Arkansas to support visual and performing arts when she passed in 1976. Part of those funds were used to build Walton Arts Center in 1992, which included the Joy Pratt Markham Gallery to honor her lifelong arts legacy.
Our Art Our Region Our Time Oct. 6-Nov. 13 Featuring works by regional artists 100 AndrewPhotographs:Kilgore Jan. 6-March 17 Ceramics April 6-May 28 Visual Arts waltonartscenter.org 15
and
This season starts and ends with two exhibitions showcasing work from the University of Arkansas School of Art curated by Snyder. Thompson is curating the popular Our Art Our Region Our Time, a juried exhibition featuring new work by artists who call Northwest Arkansas home, and 100 Photographs: Andrew Kilgore.
Walton Arts Center is known and loved for our live performances, but did you also know that visual arts and artists have been presented regularly in the Joy Pratt Markham Gallery for 30 Joyyears?PrattMarkham
Not Just a Performing Arts Center Dylan Dewitt Kasey Ramirez
regional artists builds community connection,” Thompson said, “by allowing patrons to experience art created here by people who they might pass walking on the street. That is important and can be very powerful.”
On Display in the Joy Pratt Markham Gallery Currents Aug. 12-Sept. 25 Works by
The gallery has featured both national and international artists, but recently has focused on showcasing regional artists with help from
16 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
Q&A with Tootsie’s Tony Award® -Winning Book Writer Robert Horn Broadway Series
Tootsie: From the Screen to Stage
What are biggest differences between the film and the Broadway musical, and would you like to explain why you made some of these choices?
Tootsie is a laugh-out-loud love letter to the theater that tells the story of Michael Dorsey, a talented but difficult actor who struggles to find work until one show-stopping act lands him the role of a lifetime. Robert Horne, the creative force behind the new production that is coming to Walton Arts Center this winter, talks about making the popular movie into a Broadway show.
When he approached me about it, I got very nervous. I mean, it’s an iconic movie and comic masterpiece, but it also has content and plot points that I knew did not age well. I was terrified to take it on at first and passed on the offer. But then I sat down with the
“It was important [to] reflect the impact and progress women have made in society and art since the original film.”
Tootsie is such an iconic film. What was your process of adapting this for the stage, and what were the greatest challenges you faced?
How did the idea to adapt Tootsie for theater come about, and what excited you about this idea?
I knew from the beginning I didn’t want to just adapt the movie for the stage. The movie had been done already, and incredibly well. And I have my own point of view about whatever story I’m telling. This assignment was about creating rather than recreating. For David and me, it was about starting over and making a new musical with the bones that were already there.
composer, David Yazbek, and we talked out all the ways we could make it our own, update it, and use humor to tell the story in a theatrical and modern way.
A shift that needed to happen was the point of view of the female characters in the story. It was important they reflect the impact and progress women have made in society and art since the original film. There is both a strength and vulnerability to the women portrayed in the musical that I think, sadly, might not have resonated back in the early ‘80s… but again, as we progress culturally, so must our art.
Everything about theater excites me… and also gives me heartburn. The idea came from our prolific and wonderful producer, Scott Sanders, who had the rights to the movie. He had seen a workshop I had done for another musical, and when the legendary Larry Gelbart, who wrote the film and was adapting the musical, passed away, Scott went on a desperate search to find someone to fill Larry’s comedic shoes. Somehow his GPS pointed towards me, and I am forever grateful.
Kelly & Marti Sudduth
Bill & LeAnn Underwood
David & Pam Parks
Malcolm & Ellen Hayward
Judith McKenna & Phil Dutton
/
Marybeth & Micky Mayfield
Anton & Linda Myers
The real commerce of this show is its comedy, its tone, and of course, the clown car of actors that brings it to life every night. The comedy comes at you with such love, then there are these hysterical songs by David Yazbek that at once have you laughing and moments later thinking. Add to that the way Denis Jones uses dance to forward the action with such humor and style, and David Solomon recreating Scott Ellis’ staging but adding his own comedic sensibility and timing that keeps the show moving like a bullet train, and it adds up to a glorious night of musical comedy.
to our Premier Broadway Series Supporters Bob & Becky Alexander and 2022/23 Friends of Broadway for their additional support this season:
Cece
Peter B. Lane & Barbara Putman
Neal & Gina Pendergraft
Willard & Pat Walker Charitable
ThanksSpecial
Brett & Kara Biggs
What would you say are the greatest highlights of the show?
Hannah & Greg Lee
Elda & Eric Scott
PrudyBox&Dale Caudle
Todd & Melissa Simmons
JohnTonyFoundationWaller&Kitten Weiss
8 SHOWS 17-22Jan.
waltonartscenter.org 17
Walton Arts Center has now transitioned Mosaix from a stand-alone festival to a programming initiative that runs throughout its season.
LADAMA
Thursday, March 30
LADAMA
Mosaix programming this season:
Curated by Fayetteville Film Fest
Trike Theatre, Ra-Ve Cultural Foundation and Dhirana Dance present
on Our Stages
45th Anniversary – Yo Creo Que Es
18 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
BRINGINGra-veculturalfoundation.org
the driving forces behind Walton Arts Center’s Mosaix initiative. Originally launched as Mosaix Festival, the inaugural event was scheduled for April 2020. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen as planned due to COVID-19.
Friday, January 13
India TO NORTHWEST ARKANSAS
Representing Our Community
Indie Films Central and South America
Tiempo with Mariachi Aztlan
Saturday, March 25
Thursday, October 20
It’s important for people from all backgrounds to see performers who look like them on stage when they come to Walton Arts Center. It is equally important for all of us to be introduced to new cultures, art forms and experiences from different cultures than our Theseown.are
The Jungle Book
Aida Cuevas
“We all acknowledge the importance of featuring the cultural ‘tiles’ of Northwest Arkansas through the work on our stages,” said Jennifer Ross, vice president of programming. “Noting this work as part of the Mosaix initiative allows our audiences to better explore different cultures and learn more about our diverse region. We will continue working with local cultural organizations to help guide our work in this area.”
The DEI committee strives to improve our workplace environment through education and staff training. Over the past year, we have collaborated with (R)Evolve, a DEI consulting firm that meets periodically with groups of employees to provide seminars, gamified trainings and discussions in a judgementfree environment. We provide additional education and staff trainings, and curate a DEI staff library for everyone.
The Walton Arts Center DEI committee is comprised of 25 employees across the spectrum of Walton Arts Center and Walmart AMP departments along with several members of the Walton Arts Center Board. The committee meets monthly to discuss workplace culture, current events, programming and policies.
Walton Arts Center embraces diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in both its programming and its work culture. We believe in having a diverse body of staff, with people of all colors, creeds, backgrounds and identities. Walton Arts Center is continually working to create and maintain an equitable workplace in terms of pay standards, benefits and policy. We welcome and strive to include all voices by giving space and avoiding interruption, listening with the goal of understanding and disagreeing with grace.
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Another very important (and fun) job of the DEI committee is deciding how the organization will participate in diverse community events such as Northwest Arkansas Pride, Fayetteville Hispanic Heritage Festival and the BlackownedNWA Business Expo. We also work toward creating concrete policies that will affect employees for the better. A recent example of this is creating a parent’s room for nursing and pumping on the job.
Making the Arts Welcoming for All
By Samantha Stinson and Leslie Cowles, DEI staff committee co-chairs
We believe in having a diverse body of staff, with people of all colors, backgroundscreeds,andidentities.
DEI is a constantly evolving process, and a commitment that we take very seriously. We are constantly listening, observing and acting to create a comfortable, respectful workplace. As we learn more, we strive to do better. We strive not for perfection, but for progress. In addition to acting as a sounding board for our staff, performers and visiting crews, we welcome feedback from our patrons – positive or constructive – about their experiences in our space!
Walton Arts Center also focuses on diversity in programming, most notably our Mosaix programming. Mosaix performances are chosen in collaboration with Northwest Arkansas cultural communities to illuminate the various cultural tiles that make up our beautiful community through music, dance, film, comedy and more.
The Texas Gentlemen
The Texas Gentlemen Thursday, October 6
Lilly Hiatt Band Friday, January 6
Unilever Starrlight Jazz Club
Gaelic Storm
Davina & the Vagabonds Thursday, January 26
Land O’Lakes Concert Series
While a loud, exciting and flashy concert experience is something we endorse (see amptickets.com for some options), nothing compares to seeing a world-class musician perform in an intimate venue . With three distinct music series – and additional performances dispersed throughout the season, there is something at Walton Arts Center for every music lover
Cate Brothers Friday, October 28 James McMurtry Thursday, December 8
Gaelic Storm We Missed You Tour Tuesday, November 15
Chick Corea AfroCaribbean Experience with Elio Villafranca & Friends Friday, January 27
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With a focus on singer-songwriters, West Street Live performances are a lyric-lover’s dream These performances are in Starr Theater, set cabaret style with a limited number of tables and tiered seating to create an intimate listening room experience
Edward Simon’s Femeninas: The Songs of Latin American Women Friday, December 16
Brianna Thomas Sextet Friday, April 7
Fans craving a real jazz club experience will be thrilled with our Starrlight Jazz Club . We’re bringing some of the most influential and awarded contemporary jazz artists to our Starr Theater stage Experience the exhilaration of live jazz performed in the ambiance it deserves with cabaret and tiered seating in Starr Theater
Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives Friday, March 10
Live Music Lives at Walton Arts Center
Herb Alpert & Lani Hall
The Robert Cray Band Tuesday, September 27
Amina Figarova Quintet Saturday, October 8
The Music of Sam Cooke – The King of Soul starring Bradd Marquis Monday, January 30
Herb Alpert & Lani Hall Thursday, September 15
Baum Walker Hall provides the perfect stage for bigger bands and music acts that have a devoted, larger audience that craves a great listening experience This series includes a variety of genres
EdwardSimon
But with so many choices, how do you know where to start? Here’s an overview of each of our music series to help you find your new favorite.
Presented by Neal Pendergraft
Marty Stuart
ThomasBrianna
West Street Live
Ulysses Owens Jr.’s Generation Y Saturday, March 4
MODERN OZARK CUISINE Come dine with us before the show! LUNCH DINNERBRUNCH Wed. - Fri. 11am - 2pm Sat. & Sun. 10am - 2pm Wed., Thur. & Sat. 5pm-8pm Fri. 5pm-9pm www bordinos com YOUR TOTAL PURCHASE *DINE-IN ONLY (EXCLUDES ALCOHOL) *DICKSON ST. LOCATION ONLY waltonartscenter.org 21
At Walton Arts Center, we depend on our volunteers on a daily basis – but especially on show days! They greet you when you walk in the door, help you get your ticket at Will Call, scan your ticket when you go into the theater and help you find your seat. But that’s not all they do
The Show Can’t Go On Without Our Volunteers
We ask members of our volunteer corps to contribute a minimum of 30 hours per season, which averages to about one volunteer opportunity a month Volunteers also have the option of joining a more flexible volunteer path with our Volunteer Ambassador Program This program is ideal for students who need to fulfill a service requirement, corporate employee volunteers or individuals with schedule restrictions
By Nathan Bell, volunteer programs manager
All new volunteers must attend an orientation session before joining the team The orientation sessions are designed to inform prospective volunteers about policies and procedures, and details about specific opportunities. New volunteers are offered a mix of virtual, hands-on and mentorship training in order to provide the best possible experience for our patrons Seasoned volunteers also attend a summer training session as a refresher course
Every year Walton Arts Center honors our volunteers at a Volunteer Appreciation Night During this special evening, awards are given based upon years of service and number of volunteer hours Walton Arts Center also recognizes volunteers throughout the year with a complimentary ticket program, social outings, Volunteer Appreciation Month activities and more
Our volunteers also assist with our educational programs, special events such as Art of Wine and Masquerade Ball, and help our staff with administrative tasks. We have a dedicated corps of volunteers that are involved in every aspect of the theater from helping in the box office to ushering in the hall. The donation of time and talents from our volunteers enables Walton Arts Center to fill key roles, which reduces our overhead costs and allows us to pass those savings on to our patrons
Volunteering is a great way to meet like-minded people in the community from a wide variety of backgrounds. It can also help students to build leadership and job skills.
Volunteers create their own schedule by signing up online for opportunities that best meet their needs Shifts are available during the day and at night, as well as weekdays and weekends We encourage volunteers to try something new or explore more than one area of service We love seeing volunteers expand their skills and shine in a variety of positions
Volunteering is a great way to meet like-minded people in the community from a wide variety of backgrounds It can also help students to build leadership and job skills Anyone interested in volunteering can visit waltonartscenter.org/volunteer. Orientation sessions are offered throughout the season, so it’s always a good time to apply
22 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
As our Northwest Arkansas community grows, our volunteers continue to represent a diverse cross-section of the community and speak more than 11 different languages including French, Korean, Vietnamese and Spanish Though they hail from a variety of backgrounds, they all share a love for the arts and their community
Heather Agerton
Charlotte Shaffer Teresa Shelden
Bentonville Fayetteville Rogers Springdale
bwdh20.orgTosustainably provide our customers with safe, economical drinking water peelcompton.org Get code!thisscanningnowitbyQR WHAT’S UP ? Get the What’s Up! newsletter and you’ll always know. You can count on Becca to keep you informed on the best things to go and do. The What’s Up! newsletter comes to your email Friday!each waltonartscenter.org 23
Ali LarryBrittneyPaulaDonnLindaDarielleMarkKatieJohnCaroleChidamJudyMarkAmyKathrynLeeGayleElizabethAutumnDianaCandaceJeanneJeremyCurtisRalphMaryTimMarkGinaFranHainesHamiltonHarrisHarrisHartneyHarveyHarveyHendricksHessHickmanHoggattHokeHollandHouleHowardHowardHuntHuyckeHuyckeHydenIyerJacksonJacksonJacksonJacksonJamesJenkinsJohnsonJohnsonJonesJones
Kerry ElisaAngelikaYvetteLauraRanaBenJosiahBethanyMarcHadleyTeresaPeggyPeterBeckyPhyllisSharonMarieJeraldStrickerSwensonSwensonThomasonThurmanTimmonsTookerTreiberTurkTwilleyVillalvaWallaceWallaceWalworthWeidmanWelkeyWilkinsWillWillard
Jim NicolePeggyAviSharonAnnetteKimberlyPamGilbreathGilbreathGillowGollGrayGreeneGuccioneGulas
Walton Arts Center would like to share our appreciation for the many generous volunteers whose time and dedication make our programming possible. We couldn’t do it without you!
SueJoelRichardSusanLindaDianeHelenDebbieJackJohnDennisMelodyMaryPattiJudyJerryDianaKayJayReneAmeliaCaneCatanzaroCheekChoColeyDanforthDavisonDavisonDeenDeGolyerDeVereDinkelDixonDoyleDuBoisEdsallEricksonFaheyGarrissGeretyGiarrussoGidney
JoyceMariAnneJerryRobynTeresitaJudithLaurieLeslieCarissaRonitJeannieTomAllieGlendaSunshineOwensOwensPattersonPedutoPerryPhilpottPortetPotterRedmonRehReighterReisingerRektorRetallickRetallickRichards
AndreaPaulaDebiColleenBarryRuthSharonHollyKarlaCatheSusanKarmenDavidMyraMarianneChrisBobbyePamDianeAndreinaJeanieRuthCassieRayPatPamelaPamelaMichaelJacqueAhrendsenAllenAllenAshfordAustinBaderBaderBakerBakerBaltzBarrettBashukBeardBeecherBellBiekerBiggersBoddieBoddieBoldingBowmanBradleyBrannanBraskoBrennemanBrownBrownBuckleyBurksCamargo
Debra
Ellen Gifford
Robert AnitaJoeBarbaraQuinetteRitschelRogersSalmonsSalmonsSampley
Jacki Riffey
Rick
David
Judith StephanieCarolCharlotteJeanneShippSilvestriSorensonSpearsSpringate
Tiff Wimberly Rachel Wolverton Donna KatyNanSusanMichaelWoodWulfWylieYarnelleYoung
KellyDarlaMaureenPeggyPatMarioShannonJamesPattyAllieKatieBarbaraDeniseJillPamLynnMalloryAnneeMorganMichaelAnnettePatriciaReneaCatherineSusanKathyJoyceFernandaJonesKanashiroKellerKnightKnightHarderKochKruckemeyerLemmerLewisLietzkeLindseyLittellMacDonaldMackeMarshMarshallMayMcMullenMercerMertensottoMilnerMinyardMitchellMorenoMoriarityMoriarityNeagleNewmanNueske
Jolene
Arkansas’Top-RankedHospital
H I G H P E R F O R M I N G R AT I N G I N N I N E A R E A S O F C A R E
wregional.com/usnews
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+ COPD Hear t At tack Hear t Failure Hip Replacement Kidney Failure Knee Replacement Lung Cancer Surger y + Stroke Uterine Cancer Surger y
Wa s hi ngton Region a l Me d ica l Ce nte r i s p r ou d to b e n ame d t h e #1 hos p it a l i n A rka n s a s by U.S . News & World Repor t for t h e s eco n d cons ec u t ive yea r, earning a high per forming rating in nine areas of care more than any other hospital in the state.
We’re here for you, providing compas sionate, high qualit y care while growing to me et the changing nee ds of our communit y
America’s favorite blonde, Elle Woods is ready to prove who’s in charge as Legally Blonde The Musical comes to Walton Arts Center for four shows only Oct 14-16 The ultimate Broadway tribute to girl power, Legally Blonde The Musical takes you from a UCLA sorority house to the Harvard halls of justice with a timely coming of age story of Broadway’s brightest heroine
Based on the beloved movie, the contemporary, sassy musical also follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, sexism, snobbery and scandal in pursuit of her dreams
Show
&
Night Out Series Shows Hit the Road: Legally Blonde The Musical
from Walton Arts Center
The tour isn’t just making a stop at Walton Arts Center, it will be holding technical rehearsals and launching a national tour from Northwest Arkansas “Teching” is when all of the actors, designers, creatives and crew put the technical elements of the show in place, including sets, lights, costumes and the orchestra, to prepare a show for its life on the road .
Producers looking to tech and mount a tour view Walton Arts Center as a resource, which speaks volumes about the organization’s reputation in the industry. Teching is also a huge benefit to the economy of the region When a cast and crew of 25-75 spends two weeks in town, they are supporting hotels, restaurants, hardware stores, yoga studios, coffee shops and more while they are here
Helping
The latest show to tech and launch
4 SHOWS / 14-16Oct. 26 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
“We typically choose to tech outside of large metro areas for the community vibes” said Sophie Whitfield, associate general manager and associate producer with Big League Productions Big League teched A Chorus Line at Walton Arts Center in Summer 2022 and is bringing Legally Blonde The Musical this fall . “We get great reception from local vendors, and we love getting to know the city we tech in. Fayetteville has so much to offer, and we are excited to get to go back!”
Show Sponsor: Underwriter: Brett Kara Biggs
The process cannot be completed in a rehearsal space . It requires a full-scale theater and a live audience to get the show ready. Watching and listening to the reactions of the first audiences gives the artistic staff information about parts of the show that need a bit more work These initial performances are an integral part of the theatrical process and one in which few audiences are able to participate
Walton Arts Center has helped 13 Broadwaysized shows launch both national and international tours since 1997 and is excited to help Legally Blonde The Musical get ready for its U S tour
Walton tours
Arts Center has helped 13 Broadwaysized shows launch both national and international
since 1997. Tours That Got Their Start at Walton Arts Center A Chorus Line The Music Man The AIDABLASTGraduate September 2006 The Wedding Singer September 2009 Blue Man Group September 2010 Irving Berlin’s White Christmas November 2017 The Lightning Thief January 2019 Falsettos February 2019 Blue Man Group Speechless September 2019 A Chorus Line Legally Blonde The Musical October 2022 waltonartscenter.org 27
Walton Arts Center staff is always looking for ways to make our programs as immersive and engaging as possible. Theater isn’t supposed to be boring or stiff (unless you are talking about a stiff drink) it’s supposed to be a fun night out! One of the many ways we incorporate even more joy into our Procter & Gamble Broadway Series is by offering cocktail classes that you can add on to select performances.
This is the perfect opportunity for a date night, a friends’ night out on the town, a double-date, or even an evening of family bonding with your adult children or parents After the class, you’ll head into the theater to see one of our award-winning Broadway musicals
What better way to enhance your evening at the theater than with this fun and interactive experience? Tickets to a cocktail class are $38 per person and can be purchased at waltonartscenter.org Spaces are limited, so don’t delay!
Cocktail Class Sponsor:
What Would You
+ flamed
Recommend?
28 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
Mix It Up Before the Show – Literally!
+ 5 oz
+ .5 oz
Patrons ages 21 and up will learn to make two show-themed cocktails and enjoy light appetizers Our master mixologist will lead you step-by-step, taking time to explain the ingredients and why they were chosen, while teaching you how to mix two delicious drinks you’ll want to recreate often .
For Moulin Rouge! The Musical we have something even more spectacular to offer! Yes you can, can, can add on a VIP Experience for $45 that includes hors d’oeuvers, desserts and an open bar featuring premium top-shelf drinks available to you pre-show and at intermission It’s a great way to avoid the crowd at the concession counter, and grab some nosh and drinks in this VIP room For more information, visit waltonartscenter.org or call our box office at 479.443.5600.
Many of the bartenders at Walton Arts Center have been in the bar or restaurant industry for years, so we thought it would be fun to get a cocktail recipe from an in-house master mixologist that you can try at home Queen Bee oz Bourbon (I prefer Buffalo Trace) Cointreau (triple sec can be substituted) Barenjager Honey Liqueur fresh lemon juice dash of orange bitters (Fee Brothers is a great choice) orange peel
“ This is one of my signature drinks that makes appearances at most of the places that I either work or manage . The drink is light, bright and refreshing while still being liquor forward It’s strong and flavorful but extremely well balanced. The definition of a patio sipper cocktail.”
Hadestown Saturday, May 27, at 6:30 pm
Pretty Woman: The Musical Saturday, Sept. 24, at 6:30 pm Chicago Friday, Nov. 11, at 6:30 pm
. The
ClassesCocktailAdd-On
Combine all liquid ingredients into a shaker with ice . Shake vigorously and double strain into a chilled coupe glass . Finish by expressing an orange peel through the flame of a match into the glass Rub the peel along the edge of the glass all the way around, twist and drop into the glass
+ 1
Bartender: Cody Gragg
+ 5 oz
+ 1.5
TRGRICHARDSTHEJOB: CCR21_067157 CLIENT: Choctaw PUB: 1/4Waltonpage INSERTION 2021 TRIM: 3.417" LIVE: .25” all BLEED: .125” all COLOR: 4C QUESTIONS: Todd 214-891-3519Gutmann CCR21_067157_WaltonArts_QtrPg.indd 1 9/9/21 1:33 PM CitiScapes Magazine is a proud sponsor of Walton Arts Center StudentrangeNWACC:JBU:anniversaryUEducationHigherinNorthwestArkansasofA:150thcelebrationAddedmajorsofferexpandedopportunitiesNewprogramsfrombicyclemechanicstocybersecurityUAMS:AcceleratedM.D.andnursingprogramsHousingTheatreSquaredisbackandinpersonforits16thseasonHealth:TipsforrecognizingsignshearinglossPEOPLE • PL LiveconcertsreturnattheWalmartAMP alsoOutdoorEntertainingCREATEAFESTIVEGATHERINGWITHTHISYEAR’STHRILLOFTHEGRILL RazorbackandnursingprogramsFootballSeasonPreviewLE FO 20SustainabilityinNorthwestArkansasSolarparkopensinLincolnProtectinglocalwaterwaysReducingourenvironmentalimpactStartinganewinsustainable,mid-centurymodernhomeGetthegametohelpraisefundsforcancerservicesArkansasChildren’sNorthwestWalmartAMPofferscountrysuperstars,‘90sicons,comedyandmore SpaceandPlanetarySciences pavingthepathtohairrestoration PEOPLE ACES FES LE SummertimeFunBucketlist-worthyplacesforfamilyadventuresexplorethefreshflavorsofsummer Localnursehelps mobilizevaccineCOVID-19efforts SchmiedingFoundation supportsthreeUAMS kidsprograms also GrowingUpGrovey AABOUTDOCUMENTARYFAMILY,FOOTBALLANDUNCONDITIONALLOVE ACES AreWhat Clickof DeanDr.BrianPrimackpetsexplorethefreshflavorsofsummerhappyontheroadtonormalcy www.citiscapes.com facebook.com/CitiscapesMagazine Social Feed waltonartscenter.org 29
Micky and Marybeth Mayfield (from left), and Wilma and Ed Gray gather at Walton Arts Center on March 7
Carol and Ed Clifford attend the Broadway postannouncement reception at Walton Arts Center
Dick and Diane Higgins (from left), Cynthia Jones, Bonnie and Gary Martineck gather at a reception following Walton Arts Center’s 2022-23 Broadway Series announcement on March 7
Kathy and Joe Farnan (from left), Emily and Jacob Pfeifer and Ashley and David Garske enjoy the Masquerade Ball on Feb 12
Lia Uribe (from left), Anne O’Leary-Kelly and Jody Dilday, Walton Arts Center board members, gather at the Feb 12 fundraiser
Jerry Davis (left) and Brandon Williams enjoy Winemaker’s Dinner at Walton Arts Center
Nate and Tina Hodne (from left), Sarah Diebold and Kim Dutton gather at Winemaker’s Dinner on July 19
Ryan and Megan Timberlake (from left), Matthew and Ana Wozenilek, Bo and Ashley Diamond, Cory and Kelly Knox and Scott and Jessica Creer help support the Walton Arts Center at the Masquerade Ball on Feb 12
All images courtesy Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette/Carin Schoppmeyer
What would you like patrons to know about Walton Arts Center?
What does a typical day at work look like for you? There really isn’t a “typical” day in Production Every show that enters our building has a unique set of technical needs and accommodations, and it’s my team’s job to do our best to meet those expectations . A typical day can be anything from attending meetings for a future event, to budgeting costs for future shows or even helping get a massive Broadway show into our building in time for opening night
Behind every concert or play that you see there are typically 40-60 hardworking stagehands called “local crew” who help load-in, run and load-out the show They are members of our local community who play a key role in making sure these big national touring shows happen I cannot thank them enough for their dedication to our organization and the growth of arts and culture in Northwest Arkansas . If you’re interested in joining local crew check out our website
I was an actor and touring comedian in Los Angeles I started crewing warehouse EDM raves on the side and eventually found myself producing events and then working full time in production .
How did you get into this industry?
Production is unlike any other field in the arts. No concert or event is quite the same, it definitely keeps you on your toes. My favorite thing is when we receive each show’s rider A rider is a very detailed document about 10-20 pages long that breaks down literally everything the touring group needs to be able to put on their show
Staff Spotlight RecruitingDoneDifferently. (479) 361-1114 StoutExecutiveSearch.com
What is the most interesting thing about your job?
Cody Kopp
Production Manager Team member since June 2021
Cody Kopp
30 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
HUMAN RESOURCES
Beth Washington Facility Services Supervisor
SAFETY & SECURITY
Casey Weiss Digital Marketing Manager
Sr. Director, Marketing & Sales
Sallie Zazal Director, Learning & Engagement
........................
Becky Brink Vice President
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS
Rachel Pianalto Strickland Annual Giving Manager
Patricia Relph Gross Arts Learning Specialist
Lorinda Smith Administrative Services Manager
Kristin Coffman.
.................................
EXECUTIVE
Kyle May Director of Development, Walmart AMP
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sara Broome Jones ...... Learning Programs & Festivals Specialist
Kaylin Mason Director, Institutional Giving
WALMART AMP
Jorge Vazquez Maintenance Engineer
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Joshua Spurgers Assistant Technical Director
Brian Crowne Vice President
Jeff Mann Chief Operating Officer
Peter B. Lane President & Chief Executive Officer
Timothy Vogt Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
...................
Patrick Orndorff Director, Production Heath Parnell Assistant Director, Production
..........................
Shannon Eubanks Director, Events
Jonathan Downey Director, Technology Systems
BOX OFFICE
Jennifer Dobrowolski Box Office Manager
Jennifer Wilson Director, Public Relations
Director, Human Resources
Ginny Wilson Director, Finance
Leslie Cowles Accounting Manager
Hayley Drake Food & Beverage Manager
....................
Cody Kopp Production Manager
waltonartscenter.org 31
Andrew Crowe AMP Box Office Manager
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PRODUCTION
Samantha Stinson School Engagement Manager
Nathan Bell
Heather Holland Creative Director
J.O. Bailey Director, Food & Beverage
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Stephanie Gaskill-Simpson ..................Director, Operations
Kaitlin Higgins Director, Patron Services
PROGRAMMING
Tommy Sisemore Director, Safety & Security
IT
Mike Herbert Maintenance Engineer
Amy Freeman Navarro Director, Sponsorship & Special Events
Bob Pless WAC General Manager & Sr. Director, Facilities
Nick Zazal General Manager
................
Jill Suel
Curt Owens Director, Programming Jennifer Ross Vice President
LEARNING & ENGAGEMENT
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Thomas Debari Director, Facility Services
Ryan Bradshaw Sales Service Manager
Jason Smith Director, Executive Administration, Classical Music & Special Initiatives
FINANCE
Ranny Kulink Patron Services Manager
Alex Newby Technical Director
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COMMUNICATIONS
FACILITIES
Hillary Morgan Director, Marketing
EVENTS & PATRON SERVICES
Volunteer Programs Manager
Gilles Grandidier Systems Infrastructure Engineer Robert Martin Database Administrator
Staff Leadership
DEVELOPMENT
.............................
Zach Strickland Development Manager, Walmart AMP
Sr. Food & Beverage Manager
Maurie Edwards
For atyoungandyoungthetheheart 1009andfun,forNWA’sExperiencehubhands-oncreativity,discovery.MuseumWay|Bentonville, AR | amazeum.org WE ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT WALTON ARTS CENTER celebratearkansas.com A “Top Three” Family Attraction and Ethical Animal Tourism Destination! 479.253.5841TCWR.org 7 Miles South of Eureka Springs on Hwy 23 239 Turpentine Creek Lane, Eureka Springs, AR 72632 Naula Celebratin g 30+ Years HourlyRTURPENTINECREEKWILDLIFEREFUGEescuingExoticCatsNationwideUniqueLodgingOpen-AirTramTours 32 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
Show Underwriter: Candace & David Starling
‘Tis the Season for Entertainment!
The Swingles Dec. 4
The Nutcracker
Million QuartetDollarChristmasThePolarExpress
The Swingles
The Snowman
waltonartscenter.org 33
Email events@waltonartscenter.org for more information
For more than half a century, The Swingles have pushed the boundaries of vocal music. The seven young singers that make up today’s London-based group are driven by the same innovative spirit that has defined the five-time Grammy® winners since they first made waves in the 1960s. Their 2022 Holiday Tour promises to be a festive and joyful event. If you started listening to holiday music in August, this is the show for you!
WAC + SoNA present
Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s The Nutcracker Nov. 25-27
Show Underwriter: Mina & Les Baledge Million Dollar Quartet Christmas Dec. 2-3
Walton Arts Center has something for everyone this holiday season and nothing puts you in the hollyjolly spirit quite like bundling up and venturing out for a night of festive live entertainment Groups of 10 or more get discounts on tickets Bring your friends, coworkers or family and start a new tradition Looking for a place to host a holiday party? We can help with that too!
This breathtaking production features Canada’s premiere ballet, a cast of local children and Tchaikovsky’s memorable score. It’s a magical performance that the whole family will love.
There’s no place like home for the holidays, and Sun Records is just that for rock ‘n’ roll newcomers and soon to be legends – Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley. All four musicians stop by their Memphis recording studio alma mater the same wintry evening, Dec. 4, 1956. Million Dollar Quartet Christmas brings that momentous homecoming to life with unforgettable performances of classic holiday hits and favorite chart toppers that will have you rockin’ around the Christmas tree.
Show Sponsor:
Show Underwriters: Marybeth & Micky Mayfield, Paula Jenkins & Lee Brown
The tradition continues! Join us for a special screening of The Snowman, based on Raymond Briggs’ classic children’s book, with the original score performed live by SoNA. Following the screening, acclaimed Music Director Paul Haas will lead the audience in a sing-a-long of other holiday favorites.
The Polar Express Dec. 23
The Snowman: A Family Concert Dec. 11
The Polar Express is making a stop at Walton Arts Center for a screening of the beloved holiday film. Dress in your best PJs and cozy up with the family to experience a free screening of this animated classic.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical Feb 9-12 & Feb 14-19, 2023
Tootsie Jan 17-22, 2023
It’s always fulfilling to hear that other people and organizations – especially large employers within the region like P&G – see the benefits that Walton Arts Center brings to the community. It is our goal for sponsors and their team members to see the benefit of their support for Walton Arts Center within the community Timberlake agrees .
In addition to sponsoring the Broadway Series, P&G also sits on the Walton Arts Center Corporate Leadership Council, which Timberlake says, “provides an opportunity to work collaboratively as a business community to increase Walton Arts Center arts education opportunities and access for children across Northwest Arkansas ”
Timberlake adds, “P&G is committed to playing a leadership role to support the arts . The Broadway Series ensures access to best-in-class national programming right here at home in Northwest Arkansas ”
“As a large employer, we have a diverse employee base that takes advantage of the breadth of Walton Arts Center programming All of the work that the organization does – the Broadway series, individual shows, cultural events and arts education – each add to the vitality of Northwest Arkansas in a unique way, ensuring there is something for everyone ”
If you’d like more information about becoming a corporate sponsor like P&G, please contact Amy Freeman Navarro at afreeman@waltonartscenter.org
Sponsor Spotlight
“The Broadway Series ensures access to best-in-class NorthwestprogrammingnationalrighthereathomeinArkansas.”
When asked about what led P&G to start supporting Walton Arts Center, Timberlake says it’s part of their DNA “Giving back is rooted in who P&G is as a company, and this is especially true in the communities where we live and serve . P&G has been in Northwest Arkansas now for over 30 years and having a vibrant arts community is an important factor in making this a great place to live and work . Our partnership with Walton Arts Center is core to this belief, and we are proud to be part of the growth ”
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My Fair Lady Aug 9-14, 2022
34 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
Timberlake also explained that support of local arts benefits the companies as well, pointing out that, “A vibrant arts community benefits us all while making Northwest Arkansas a more appealing place to live, which helps recruit talent to the area ”
– Megan Timberlake P&G’s Sr VP for Walmart
Hadestown May 23-28, 2023
Pretty Woman: The Musical Sept 20-25, 2022 Chicago Nov 8-13, 2022
That decision to provide support in both areas is one that is very intentional to P&G “We believe that by supporting these two efforts, Walton Arts Center can continue to delight audiences now and into the future ”
When asked if she’d recommend Walton Arts Center as a sponsor opportunity for another business, Timberlake smiled and said, “We are proud of our longstanding relationship with Walton Arts Center and hope that other partners will consider supporting the Walton Arts Center too Additional partners allow the collective reach and impact of programs and arts education to more parts of the Northwest Arkansas community ”
Walton Arts Center depends on contributions from our sponsors, donors and Friends to bring world-class entertainment to our region . Proctor & Gamble has sponsored the Broadway Series and has been an important financial backer of Walton Arts Center since 2007 Megan Timberlake, P&G’s senior vice president for Walmart, sat down with us to talk about this amazing partnership .
Broadway Series Sponsor
CHINGGLIVES,LIFE g Northwest eat place ork.
Show Underwriter: Cynthia Jones
Winnie the Pooh for All Generations“
The theatrical rights to the Pooh stories were acquired by Disney in 1961, with an original intent to produce a feature film. After production began, Walt Disney decided to make short featurettes instead. The first featurette, Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree, was released during his lifetime, while Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day was still in development The three featurettes including new bridging material and a new ending were subsequently incorporated into the full-length film The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh This was the last film in the Disney canon in which Walt Disney had personal involvement . Disney’s Winnie the Pooh has since become one of the bestloved and most successful franchises in history
Disney’s Winnie the Pooh is a new musical stage adaption created and directed by Jonathan Rockefeller that will transform Walton Arts Center’s stage into the Hundred Acre Wood for four shows only on Friday, Oct 21 and Saturday, Oct 22 . The celebrated show for kids of all ages will bring Pooh, Christopher Robin, and their best friends Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit, Owl and Tigger to life on stage
counterparts, each larger-than-life size character is ”full of fluff,” covered in fur (or feathers) and built lovingly many times over to get their look and movement just right
“The music, the spectacular life-size puppets, and the charming performances are the perfect way to introduce (or re-introduce) audiences to live theater, and this is a must-see show for Winnie the Pooh fans of all ages We are excited to bring the Hundred Acre Wood to Northwest Arkansas so that audiences can join us for this welderspatternmakers,teamProductionstheandtheAllJonathanproduction”heartwarmingsaiddirectorRockefeller.thepuppetsfeaturedinshowweredesignedconstructedwithinwallsofRockefellerbyatalentedofartists,designers,builders,andfabricators.InspiredbyDisney’soriginalcharacterdesigns,andChristopherRobin’sreal-life
– Theatre Pizzazz – Toy Insider – Theatrely
In a new story from the Hundred Acre Wood, this fresh stage adaptation is told with impressive life-size puppetry, featuring characters that have played iconic roles in the lives of children for generations . Accompanying the magical, modern narrative is an original score from Nate Edmondson, which features some of the songs written for the animated feature from The Sherman Brothers,
Inspired by the beloved books by A A Milne and the classic Disney features, this new theatrical production debuted in New York in October 2021 with rave reviews calling it “A perfect introduction to live theater It’s a captivating adventure with spectacular puppetry,” (MommyPoppins. com), and “an hour of bountiful joy,” (New York Theatre Guide)
“Mesmerizing life-size puppets and original Sherman Brothers tunes, the beautiful new Winnie the Pooh musical is must-see.”
36 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
4 SHOWS / Oct.21-22 Kids Series A Heartwarming Tale
Winnie the Pooh is delightfully first-rate,”
“The new Winnie the Pooh musical is sweeter than honey.”
including “Winnie the Pooh,” “The Blustery Day,” “The Wonderful Thing About Tiggers,” “WhoopDe-Dooper Bounce” and A A Milne’s “The More It Snows ”
Winnie the Pooh has been enjoyed by millions of readers and viewers ever since English author A.A. Milne first chronicled the adventures of Christopher Robin’s friends in the Hundred Acre Wood in 1926 The books, featuring illustrations by English illustrator E H Shephard, have sold more than 50 million copies worldwide
The History of Pooh
Bringing Your Kids to the Theater
Why Should You Bring Your Kids to the Theater?
At Walton Arts Center, it is very important to us that people of all ages are exposed to the arts . Consider bringing your children to one or more of our productions for kids It’s never too early to foster an appreciation for live theater, and chances are if you love it, they will too
Many children express interest in performing after attending the theater Did your children catch the theater bug? Help them put on a play!
Tips for a Successful Family Theater Experience
In addition to expanding children’s intelligence, the theater broadens their worldview Theatrical performances give children the opportunity to understand the experiences of people and characters from different places and time periods without leaving their hometown
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By Dr. Samantha Stinson, school engagement manager
Best of all – it is unique and fun Seeing live theater as an art form is an irreplaceable experience – as is witnessing its wonder through your child’s eyes .
Walton Arts Center is a Place for Kids
Taking your child into an experience that they aren’t used to can be stressful as a parent Here are a few tips to help prepare your family for the best experience possible
+ Familiarize your children with the show they’re going to see Many of our kids and family shows are based on popular children’s books or characters
The theContinuesLearningAfterShowEnds
We offer two series specifically focused on child-friendly programs – our Kellogg’s Kids Series, with productions geared towards younger ages, and our Family Fun Series, which offers shows that the whole family can enjoy.
+ See the theater through a child’s eyes and prepare them for what will happen . Dimming the lights, keeping their focus forward, sitting still and potentially loud sounds can be unfamiliar Explain these in advance to familiarize your children with the unique experience of attending the theater .
+ Choose a show geared towards your child’s age and needs All Walton Arts Center family programming comes with age recommendations We also provide sensory-friendly programming, which expects and encourages things like seat wiggling, clapping and laughing
Believe it or not, attending the theater actually makes your kids smarter University of Arkansas professor Jay Greene conducted a study on live theater experiences for primary and secondary students which concluded that attending live theater performances led to an increase in memory, critical thinking, vocabulary and empathy as compared to reading a play or watching a film.
The theater-making process is an excellent learning experience, combining writing (the script), critical thinking (memorizing lines), imaginative thinking (directing the show), art (making sets, costumes and props) and social emotional learning (standing up and performing in front of others) Use a wellloved book as your “script” or write an original story Bonus if you make a recording of their performance to enjoy
Attending a production together at the theater is a family bonding activity. Sharing experiences as a family is beneficial for a child’s wellbeing and behavior Seeing a performance together also provides opportunities for family discussion after the experience is over
Keep the experience going even after the performance has ended Ask your children questions about the show – who was their favorite character? What did they notice about the elements of the performance such as sets, music, lighting, props and costumes? Family discussions not only serve as a bonding experience, but also help to hone your child’s critical thinking skills .
You might think of attending the theater as a grown-up activity, but at Walton Arts Center theater really is for everyone. Our programming and facilities are designed to offer enjoyable theater-going experiences for your entire family.
Independent Films Take Center Stage
For many of these screenings, some of the filmmakers are present to speak about their films and take questions from the audience. The showcases and their talkbacks are great opportunities to learn more about filmmaking, and allow the community to celebrate stories and creators that represent a variety of backgrounds and experiences
aFilmsFilmmakersinCentralwillThisandforcepartnershippandemicscreeningtransitionedShowcasetoavirtualduetotheHowever,thereturnedinfullforthe2021-22seasoncontinuestogrowyear’sshowcasesfeatureIndieFilmsandSouthAmericaJanuary,ArkansasinMarch,IndieArtosphereinMayandPrideShowcaseinJune
“We are able to expose our patrons to mini film festival events and introduce a new artform, and Fayetteville Film Fest is able to grow their base of independent film fans within the region which further supports their annual festival,” Ross said “It’s a win for everyone ” Films to be screened at each showcase will be announced at waltonartscenter.org . Tickets for each screening are on sale now .
Film ShowcasesUpcomingFestivalsFilm Indie Films Central and South America Jan. 13, 2023 FilmmakersArkansas March 11, 2023 Indie ArtosphereFilms May 12, 2023 Pride Showcase June 22, 2023 38 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
Instead of waiting for annual or semi-annual film festivals to discover independent films, you can enjoy four mini film festivals this season thanks to a partnership between Fayetteville Film Fest (FFF) and Walton Arts Center
The partnership started in spring 2020 with an Arkansas ShowcaseFilmmakersinJanuary and continued when the Indie Films India
“Walton Arts Center benefits from this partnership because we know the curated films that Fayetteville Film Fest delivers for each screening have been selected specifically for our region and our audience,” said Jennifer Ross, vice president of programming at Walton Arts Center “In addition, licensing and obtaining permissions for a film screening can be a complicated process, and we know that we have the rights to screen the films brought to us by the FFF ”
“For the longest time, filmmaking was an underrepresented artform in our region,” said Cassie Self, co-executive director of Fayetteville Film Fest “Over the years we have witnessed a growing independent film audience as well as independent filmmakers regionally and nationally Having Walton Arts Center, a forerunner of the NWA arts scene, partner with us to host screenings further validates the work that our filmmakers are creating and inspiring the artists to continue telling stories in this format to move future audiences ”
For these showcases, films are selected in one of two ways . Fayetteville Film Fest has a programming and outreach committee that works together to catalogue films submitted to the festival in recent years From that library, they select films for each showcase based on quality, awards won at Fayetteville Film Fest, as well as relevance of the material to the theme. FFF also engages filmmakers to submit new works based on the theme for the showcase
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Students learn to love Arkansas history when they see Digging Up Arkansas, and teachers appreciate the performance for the way that it engages students and makes learning fun More than 42,000 Arkansas students have experienced the history through the arts, and that number is still growing
All contributions to Walton Arts Center Council, LLC, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
Take A Seat is designed to create engaging, inspiring arts partnerships with underserved audiences The program invites area non-profits that serve students, seniors, children and families to experience the arts during a Walton Arts Center performance at no cost Partners include Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Single Parent Scholarship Fund and LifeSource International among others Since the program began in 2006, more than 18,600 free tickets have been distributed to 138 nonprofit organizations for 253 performances at Walton Arts Center
Giving Back to the Community That Supports Us
If you love the work we do and want to support us, you can learn more about how to do that at waltonartscenter.org/support
What It Means to be a Nonprofit Arts Center
Teaching Arkansas History Through the Arts
andMasterclassesWorkshops
Student Programs
Walton Arts Center hosts events with visiting artists that are open to the community – and are often free to attend These classes offer an opportunity to learn a new skill or talent, or to refine an existing talent, under the direction of professional experts .
10x10 Arts Series
Walton Arts Center relies on the generous support of our community – from individuals, corporate sponsors and grantors to funds gathered at annual events like Art of Wine and Masquerade Ball – to subsidize these shows that we all love Walton Arts Center also provides free and reduced-cost programming to students, teachers and low-income community members to ensure that we provide access to the arts for everyone in our community
When you support Walton Arts Center, you are helping us bring these memorable arts experiences to Northwest Arkansas and giving back to your community by contributing to programs including:
Take A Seat
SCAN HERE 40 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
Having a world-class arts center in our community makes a significant impact on our quality of life. While every ticket purchased to a show at Walton Arts Center or the Walmart AMP helps bring national and international performing artists to our region, ticket sales alone are not enough to support our mission .
Teacher Programs
Through the Classroom Series and our advocacy efforts, Walton Arts Center works to provide every student in Northwest Arkansas free access to arts field trips.
It is essential to our mission that we bring accessible, unique and under-represented arts experiences to Northwest Arkansas Our 10X10 Arts Series offers $10 tickets for world class touring shows, making the arts more accessible to all .
Arts With Education (AWE) Institute prepares teachers to use the arts to make teaching across the curriculum more engaging and effective. Most recently, the program has focused on literacy, social studies and classroom management . AWE engages teachers in handson, interactive workshops presented by John F Kennedy Center teaching artists Each year Walton Arts Center trains approximately 40 teachers and teaching artists at AWE The SmART residency is a yearlong professional development residency, funded in part by the Arkansas Arts Council, supporting teachers to include the arts across the curriculum and to help students excel in their literacy skills and ability to collaborate
How does it make you feel to know your contribution helps further arts education and share transformative experiences with students, educators and the community?
Knowing that my opportunitycommunitythehelpsdonationtoprovidechildreninourthetosee a show at Walton Arts Center for free . I have attended a few of these events, and seeing the look of joy and excitement on the kids’ faces tells me that I am doing something right because I helped make this happen for someone who otherwise may never get the chance to experience live performance in their lifetime .
I am someone who is always trying to give back . Anytime I can do something for the community, what I get in return is knowing that what I do matters and makes a positive difference in someone’s life. Over the years, the events that Walton Arts Center provides to NWA are, in my opinion, the “best of the best” From Broadway shows to music acts to comedy and everything in-between, Walton Arts Center is my home away from home and I am glad to be a Friend of Walton Arts Center
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Learning and development manager, Walmart & Walton Arts Center/Walmart AMP stage crew member
What inspired you to become a Walton Arts Center Friend ?
Senior associate dean, University of Arkansas & Walton Arts Center council chair
How does it make you feel to know your contribution helps further arts education and share transformative experiences with students, educators and the community?
I’m embarrassed to say this now, but originally, I became a Friend because I valued the experiences I was having at the Walton Arts Center, and I wanted to enhance those through the benefits that come with the Friends selfFortunately,programmypresentisalotwiserthanmy past self, and I now know that the Friends program is not really about accessing the lounge or having good parking . The reason for the Friends program is that it provides support for the arts access work of Walton Arts Center This is a much more meaningful and rewarding reason to make the choice to become a Friend .
Anne O’Leary-Kelly
Spotlight on Friends of Walton ArtsJasonCenterViator
What do you feel is the greatest benefit to being a Friend ?
I like to believe that initiatives like those funded by the Friends program can make it possible to bring experiences of surprise and joy that come from live performances to every person in our community . That is a big dream but if there is any community that can make it happen, I believe that place is Northwest Arkansas
Great food —withentertainmentandstartgreatpeople. Here’s to another season of celebrating them! learn more at tysonfoods.com ®/™/©2022 Tyson Foods, Inc. 28470712 42 Walton Arts Center OnStage Fall/Winter 2022/23
Symphony of Northwest Arkansas
Paul Director
Haas, Music
2022-23 Season at Walton Arts Center OCT 29 Imagine Big DEC 10 A Very SoNA Christmas DEC 11 The Snowman: A Family Concert JAN 7 Mother and Child MAR 11 New Canons APRIL 8 Battle of the Bands APRIL 29 Evoking Folklore Tickets On Sale Now! / sonamusic.org / 479.443.5600 waltonartscenter.org 43
General Mills is proud to support Walton ArtsprogramsCenter
Trike Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
HerHealth Clinic 5
Prime Capital Investment Advisors . . . . . . . 14
University of Arkansas Department of Theatre . . 21 Washington Regional 24
Conner & Winters 9
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art & The Momentary 3
Peel Compton Foundation 23
Underwoods Fine Jewelers 2
Community Creative Center 43
Mockingbird Kitchen Cafe 21
Ra-Ve Cultural Foundation 18
Symphony of Northwest Arkansas (SoNA) 43
Collier Drug 9
Grub’s Bar & Grille 21
Procter & Gamble 35
General Mills 44 Graduate Fayetteville 21
Discover Siloam Springs 27
Celebrate Arkansas Magazine 32
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge 32
Tyson Foods 42
Eason Insurance Agency Inc 14
Springfield Missouri Convention & Visitors Bureau 46
Butterfield Trail Village 7
Stout Executive Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
UAMS Health 14
Media Partners
Crafton Tull 14
Choctaw Casinos & Resorts 29, 48
U of A Global Campus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Advertiser Index
Titanic Museum Attraction 15
CitiScapes Magazine 29
KNWA TV 30
Beaver Water District 23
Bordinos Restaurant 21
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Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette . . . . 23
Scott Family Amazeum . . . . . . . . . . .32
Polk Stanley Wilcox Architects 9
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