also inside: > Drinks and a Show > NYC Trip with Friends > Sponsor Spotlight > Broadway Bonus Shows
Shucked
Cirque du Soleil
Songblazers
Keb’ Mo’
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
Every season at Walton Arts Center is special, but a few stand out above the rest. The 2024/25 season is one of those BIG seasons with a Broadway show each month from August through May. And these are not just any shows. Our team has lined up some of the biggest shows on their first national tours. Add to that more BIG names like Kristin Chenoweth, the debut of the new and exciting Cirque du Soleil show Songblazers, Lyle Lovett and his Large Band, New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players – and the season just keeps getting better.
While we are excited to bring you these world-class performances, I also want you to know about some of our new initiatives this year that invest in the next generation of theatergoers and performers.
This is the inaugural season of Walton Arts Center’s Diamond Awards, Northwest Arkansas’ regional high school theater awards program. Modeled after Broadway’s Tony Awards®, the Diamond Awards will recognize achievement and excellence in musical theater among local high school students. This program qualifies the best actress and actor winners to compete in New York City at the Broadway League Foundation’s National High School Musical Theatre Awards®, “The Jimmy Awards®.” Many Jimmy Awards alumni have gone on to a career on Broadway or on tour.
We have also launched Hip-Hop 101, an after-school program that gives children the opportunity to learn elements of hip-hop music and dance from trained professionals in the field – at no cost to them. The teaching artists represent the best of the NWA hip-hop scene, including not only dancers but also a songwriter, rapper, music producer and DJ. The program will end with a live performance and the production of an original EP album.
Cover clockwise:
Ashley D. Kelley and Grey Henson in the original Broadway production of SHUCKED – photo by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman. James Schultz as The Grinch in the touring company of DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL – photo by Jeremy Daniel. Cirque du Soleil
SONGBLAZERS –photo by Jeremy Poland.
Also, to make sure local students can continue coming to Classroom Series shows, we’ve increased our bus subsidy program. The increase will completely cover the mileage and driver costs for public schools to see a free show at Walton Arts Center, which helps us further our goal of creating opportunities for every student in Northwest Arkansas to see a live performance.
It is truly an honor for our staff and volunteers to serve Northwest Arkansas by bringing amazing arts experiences to our region. We couldn’t do this without the support of our patrons, volunteers and Friends, so thank you for believing in the work that we do.
Ain’t Too Proud –The Life and Times of The Temptations Jan. 22-23
Syncopated Ladies Jan. 26
Champions of Magic April 23
Some Enchanted Evening Oct. 10
Mark Morris Dance Group: The Look of Love Nov. 20
Trey McLaughlin & The Sounds of Zamar Nov. 21
BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet Jan. 30
Sonia De Los Santos: Música Feb. 11
New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players: The Mikado March 9
The Edge Effect April 4
Nimbus Dance May 9
Dover Quartet with Edgar Meyer May 17
Lyle Lovett and his Large Band Oct. 13
Kristin Chenoweth: For the Girls Dec. 3
Ben Folds: Paper Airplane Request Tour Dec. 14
Classic Albums Live: Abbey Road Feb. 7
The Simon & Garfunkel Story Feb. 18
Pringles Kids Series
Bluey’s Big Play Sept. 6-8
Chicago Children’s Theatre: Peter Rabbit & Friends Oct. 6
Blippi: Join the Band Tour Dec. 10
Kattam and his Tam-Tams Feb. 2
Terrapin Puppet Theatre: The Paper Escaper April 24
Email: Info@waltonartscenter.org
Tinsley Ellis
Sonia De Los Santos
Starrlight Jazz Club
Sean Mason Quartet Sept. 7
Rio Meets New Orleans Trio Oct. 18
Jonathan Kreisberg Dec. 6
René Marie Jan. 31
Billy Stritch Feb. 15
Matt Wilson’s Good Trouble Quintet March 8
Family Fun Series
Avatar: The Last Airbender in Concert Sept. 17
Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical Nov. 12-17
Walton Arts Center and SoNA Present
The Snowman: A Family Concert Dec. 8
Peking Acrobats March 4
West Street
Presented by Neal Pendergraft
Barrett Baber Nov. 1
Tinsley Ellis Nov. 23
Suzy Bogguss Jan. 24
The Burney Sisters March 7
Rodney Crowell May 30
Live
More Great Shows at Walton Arts Center
Hamilton Aug. 16-25
Nurse Blake: Shock Advised Tour Oct. 6
Dusty Slay: The Night Shift Tour Oct. 11
Mark Normand: Ya Don’t Say Tour Nov. 1
INSIDIOUS: THE FURTHER YOU FEAR Jan. 18
VoiceJam Competition April 5
Paige Hernandez May 12
for the most
René Marie
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Arkansas Wine & Spirits
Athletic Brewing Co.
Baked by Kori
Bienvenue
Bordino’s
Briar Rose
The Cake Occasion
Catering Unlimited
Central Distributors of Arkansas
Conifer
Deep Branch Winery
Diamond Beverage
Hotvine Wine Shop
Jerry R. Harrod Wine & Spirits Broker for Arkansas
Moon Distributors of Arkansas
Nellie
Sissy’s
Slouch Hat Wines
The Sous Chef
South Side Smoke Shack
Southern Glazer’s
Theo’s
Urban Cellar Winery
Walmart Museum
Wiederkehr Wine Cellars
Walton Arts Center Friends
Thank you for being a light!
Chandelier
$6,000+
Special thanks to the following companies that match their employees’ donations and foundations that support Walton Arts Center.
Ed and Carol Clifford
How long have you been attending shows at Walton Arts Center?
We have individually been attending Walton Arts Center since 1992, but it became the hub of our social life when we started dating in 2016. In fact, our very first date was a Valentine’s Day performance of SoNA at Walton Arts Center. Together, we began looking forward to performances, especially musicals, plays and concerts featuring talented and famous artists. Season subscriptions to the Broadway Series soon followed.
What made you decide to join our Friends annual giving program?
Becoming a member of the Friends annual giving program just seemed to be the natural next step as we wanted to support Walton Arts Center and all the amazing art and cultural experiences it brings to Northwest Arkansas. As an Arkansas Arts Council and Mid-American Arts Alliance board member, Ed knows the value of the arts in everyday life. He also knows that the creative economy in Arkansas is the fourth largest segment of the state’s total economy. One of the best ways to support the arts in NWA is to join the Friends program.
What benefit do you most enjoy as part of the Friends program?
One of the best things about being a part of the Friends program is that it creates a special connection with other same love of the performing arts. The members on show nights and is a gathering place with food, drinks and friendly faces. When we walk into the lounge, we know we will see old friends who are as excited to be there as we are. It’s also a great place to make new friends who enrich our lives.
What do you want other people to know about the Friends program?
We want everyone to know that good things happen because of your Friends support, including the Take a Seat program and the amazing school field trips that bring our young folks in touch with the arts, hopefully for life. We would encourage everyone who is able to join the Friends program ... it will change your perspective of the arts in NWA and perhaps do the same for others.
Plus, as a Friend you’ll get star treatment all season long with incredible benefits like:
+ Reserved Friends Parking
+ Complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres in our Friends Lounge
+ Invitations to behind-the-scenes events
+ Access to pre-sales
Night
Out Series
Cirque du Soleil Delivers Perfect Harmony of Guitar Grooves and Breathtaking Moves
8 SHOWS / Nov. 27Dec. 1
Wed 7pm
Fri 3 & 7pm
Sat 11:30am, 3:30 & 7:30pm Sun 2 & 6pm
Tickets start at $52
Cirque du Soleil Songblazers is a one-ofa-kind theatrical production that celebrates and pays homage to the legendary and modern trailblazers of country music. Charting the journey of two main characters as they forge their own path to country music fame, Songblazers promises an unforgettable experience for audiences. With its acrobatic and live musical performances boasting the captivating artistry of Cirque du Soleil and the soulstirring melodies of beloved country rhythms, this experience showcases the diverse influences of country music and its heartfelt stories in a new way.
In creating this new show, Cirque du Soleil and Universal Music group collaborated with Sam Williams, a contemporary country artist, grandson of country pioneer Hank Williams and the son of outlaw legend Hank
Williams Jr., to create an original song for the show. Fusing gut-wrenching honesty and plainspoken poetics with raw vulnerability and deep empathy, “Carnival Heart” is inspired by a personal yearning of self-discovery, friendship and hope.
“The title idea came to me pretty easily after becoming acquainted with Cirque du Soleil,” says Williams. “Where I come from, most people don’t get to go to the circus. We go to county fairs and carnivals, and the carnival in a small town is filled with joy, excitement, mystery, euphoria ... you name it. That feeling is one you always remember and I think the roller coaster of emotions lines up with what you want to feel seeing such an incredibly beautiful production such as Cirque’s.”
Drawing inspiration from the rich legacy of country music with hits by country legends including Billy Ray Cyrus, Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash and more, Songblazers invites audiences to witness breathtaking acrobatics, awe-inspiring aerial acts and displays of extraordinary strength. As the crowd grooves to beloved country tunes, they will be entranced by the breathtaking skills of Cirque du Soleil artists, honoring the rich tradition of country music while embracing its evolving spirit.
Wrangle your tickets now at waltonartscenter.org
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• Transportation available
• Unique alternative calendar
• Family and community engagement
Learn more by visiting artsk12.org Regist rat ion is
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1110 W. Poplar Street, Rogers, AR 72756 (479) 877-1764
Symphony of Northwest Arkansas’ 2024-25 MainStage Season
From beloved classics to bold new voices
Fans of the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas have a lot to be excited about with the orchestra’s 2024/25 MainStage Season concert lineup at Walton Arts Center! Spanning September through April, SoNA will present seven performances under the baton of Music Director Paul Haas.
“I am looking forward to this season with great anticipation,” says SoNA Executive Director Ben Harris. “We’ll take a journey through time and place to explore the evolution of the orchestral art form. From Western Europe, we’ll trace the beginnings of the modern orchestra through the classic work of Bach and Mozart; we’ll examine the connection between Europe and America through the prism of Dvorák and Gershwin; and we’ll present brand-new music by Cuban composer/pianist Aldo López-Gavilán. Along the way, we’ll also celebrate the holiday season together, and explore the outer reaches of the universe with a sci-fi inspired pops program. And we’ll finish the season right back where we started – here at home in Arkansas, with native composer Florence Price.”
The season launches on Saturday, Sept. 21 with Oceans of Time: Orchestral Evolutions, an engrossing westward journey from classical music’s European birthplace all the way to the multicultural mecca of the Americas. The evening’s program includes Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 3, one of the most beloved pieces in the entire orchestral repertoire, followed by the world premiere of Aldo Lopez-Gavilan’s magnificent new work, Oceans to Cross, featuring pianist Lara Downes. After intermission, SoNA performs Antonin Dvorak’s ever-popular Symphony No. 8.
Then on Nov. 9, SoNA takes audiences “where no one has gone before” with Futuristic Fantasia: SoNA Goes Sci-Fi! – a pops concert featuring classic pieces from iconic sci-fi movies like 2001: A Space Odyssey, Star Wars, Star Trek, E.T. and Everything Everywhere All at Once
In December, a pair of audience-favorites return! SoNA celebrates the magic and beauty of the holidays with two performances (matinee and evening) of A Very SoNA Christmas on Dec. 7 – a pops concert showcasing holiday classics, featuring the SoNA Singers and special guest soloists. And on Dec. 8, The Snowman: A Family Concert features a special screening of the runaway hit film complete with live orchestral soundtrack.
The season continues with Jupiter Rising, a special Sunday matinee performance on Feb. 16. For this delightful concert program, SoNA pairs one of the most famous pieces ever written — Mozart’s Symphony No. 41 in C Major (Jupiter) — with some of the greatest music you may have never heard! The first half of this performance is an exploration of relatively unknown pieces from three different continents (Australia, Europe and South America), one featuring SoNA’s principal trombonist Cory Mixdorf, after which we return to Germany and Mozart’s Jupiter
“This season we’ll explore the evolution of the orchestral art form.”
- Ben Harris SoNA executive director
And on April 19, the season wraps up with American Voices: Rhapsody in Blue. Inside of eight short years during the 1920s and ‘30s, American composers produced three masterpieces –all of them in completely different styles and each written with distinctive voices. This concert celebrates this great American explosion by combining all three of them into one special evening of music: George Gershwin’s iconic Rhapsody in Blue, played by one of the great pianists of our generation, Stewart Goodyear; William Grant Still’s Afro-American Symphony No. 1 and Florence Price’s Symphony No. 1 in E Minor
To secure your subscriber seats or purchase single tickets, visit sonamusic.org or call the Walton Arts Center box office at (479) 443-5600.
Staff Spotlight
Jason Henson Food and Beverage Manager
Can you describe your primary role and typical day at Walton Arts Center?
My role ensures that every event where food and/or drinks are served runs smoothly and effortlessly. I oversee both our concessions area and our Friends Lounge. Walton Arts Center also hosts numerous private events throughout the year such as weddings, fundraisers and holiday parties that require an F&B (food & beverage) presence. My role includes a lot of administrative duties, but it allows me to be customer-facing as well. With so many facets to this department, a “typical” day for me doesn’t exist –every day is something new!
How did you get into the food & beverage industry?
My grandmother owned Audrey’s Diner in Siloam Springs and I spent quite a bit of time there as a kid. Naturally, it became my first job. I learned that feeding people is a display of love and respect, and I take pride in that form of service. In high school, I discovered
What is the most interesting thing about your job?
I think the most interesting part of my job is the engagement, from creating themed menus for our Lounge to working with other departments to create more tailored experiences for our patrons, clients and visiting artists. During the summer when Walton Arts Center’s season slows down, I join the F&B team at the Walmart AMP and immerse myself in wholly different performances.
What would you like patrons to know about Walton Arts Center?
Our venues work together to support our mission of bringing artists and entertainers from around the world to NWA with the mission of connecting and engaging people through inspiring arts experiences. Behind the scenes of these two venues is one group of individuals dedicated to providing access to the arts, and I’m proud
Jason Henson
Beloved Stories and New Adventures Await with the Pringles Kids Series
This season, the Pringles Kids Series is inviting you and your family to enjoy whimsical stories from around the world, hit TV shows reimagined for the stage and classic children’s tales. Created to spark imagination and creative thinking, these shows are engaging, immersive and entertaining for viewers of all ages.
Bluey’s Big Play
4 performances! / Sept. 6-8 / Tickets start at $29
When Dad feels like a little bit of Sunday afternoon time out, Bluey and Bingo have other plans! Join them as they pull out all of the games and cleverness at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag. Bluey’s Big Play is a theatrical adaptation of the Emmy ® -winning children’s television series, with an original story by “Bluey” creator Joe Brumm, and new music by “Bluey” composer Joff Bush. Bluey’s Big Play is presented by BBC Studios and Andrew Kay in association with Windmill Theatre Co.
Show Underwriters:
David & Pam Parks | Rick & Tracie Layton
Chicago Children’s Theatre:
Peter Rabbit & Friends
Sunday, Oct. 6, 4pm / Tickets are $10
Four favorite Beatrix Potter stories, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, The Tailor of Gloucester, The Tale of Jeremy Fisher and The Tale of Tom Kitten, come to life in this mesmerizing puppet show, complete with Potter’s original text and live music. The set is filled with dynamic suitcases and trunks where levers are pulled and cranks are turned to reveal images that surprise and delight. Three charming performers interweave classic narration and puppetry with gentle interactive moments, recruiting the audience to join the adventure.
Show Underwriter: Richie & Karen Roberts
Blippi: Join The Band Tour
Tuesday, Dec. 10, 6pm / Tickets start at $29
In this brand-new live show set to all of your favorite “Blippi” hits, Blippi will be joined onstage by Meekah, their singing and dancing buddies, and musicians to explore how music is made. So, grab your drumsticks, tune up your guitar and move those feet in a musical performance that’s fun for the whole family!
Show Underwriter: Dennis & Evelyn Shaw
Kattam and his Tam-Tams
Sunday, Feb. 2, 4pm / Tickets are $10
Music is the best passport to discover the many cultures of the world! This exciting concert, featuring the sounds of the n’goni, balafon, djembe, naffar, derbouka and dhol, invites you to discover Africa, the Middle East and India through rhythm, song and dance. Awardwinning artist and percussionist Kattam and his monkey Takoum take family audiences on an entertaining and educational multicultural adventure, combining African rap, desert dance, trance Sufi rhythms, Bollywood and more!
Terrapin Puppet Theatre: The Paper Escaper
Thursday, April 24, 6pm / Tickets are $10
Benny, the plucky puppet protagonist in The Paper Escaper, knows that they are destined for greater things than a simple pop-up book. But in a world that’s trying to squash Benny between its pages – from a wily dancing fire to a disillusioned illustrator – Benny will need the help of a new friend to achieve their dreams. This bright new puppetry work from Terrapin tells a story of determination, friendship and the power of following your own path.
Peter Rabbit & Friends
Kattam and his Tam-Tams
The Paper Escaper
Bluey’s Big Play
Blippi
Students Pave the Way for Arts Accessibility
By Dr. Sammi Stinson, school engagement manager at Walton Arts Center
Walton Arts Center continuously strives to curate programs that connect with our diverse community. In fall 2022, Walton Arts Center became a Biliteracy Community Partner with the Springdale School District. This partnership allows us to work with high school students who are certified by the Arkansas Seal of Biliteracy Program for their proficiency in two or more languages. Once certified, students are required to volunteer or work with participating community organizations to experience the tangible benefits of being bilingual.
Led by Advanced Placement Spanish teacher Kristen Novotny, members of the Springdale High School Bilingual Bulldogs have already received or are working toward this certification and many have already participated in several Walton Arts Center events. In 2023, students translated Classroom Series performance guides into Spanish for Mariposa/Butterfly and LADAMA performances,
The emotional reaction of the students as they heard their primary language spoken onstage reaffirmed our commitment to ensuring everyone ...sees themselves represented on our stages.
and gave curtain speeches for both. The Marshallese Bilingual Bulldogs did the same for the PoliPOP! guide in 2024.
In fall 2023, we had the pleasure of working with both the Spanish and Marshallese Bulldogs at a Springdale High School outreach performance with the band Scythian. The curtain speech was delivered paragraph-byparagraph in English, Spanish and Marshallese. The emotional reaction of the students as they heard their primary language spoken onstage reaffirmed our commitment to ensuring everyone who attends a Walton Arts Center show sees themselves represented on our stages.
In December 2023, seven Bilingual Bulldogs volunteered as translators during the Mariachi Herencia de Mexico performance. The students helped patrons with ticketing and seating and gave an eloquent translation of our curtain speech. We plan to continue working with these students to improve linguistic accessibility throughout our venues.
Celebrate the Holiday Season at Winter Nights
Don’t worry, not even the Grinch can steal holiday cheer from Winter Nights this year! The annual drop-in holiday gathering space is back and more festive than ever. Pop by any Thursday through Saturday 6pm til midnight from Nov. 14 through Dec. 21. Several outdoor and indoor spaces will be decked in holly, and you’re invited to visit and make some holiday memories.
New this year, Winter Nights will be hosting family-friendly activities each night 6-8pm including movie nights, crafts and story times. Then from 8pm to close, you can enjoy activities like trivia, karaoke and live music.
Our enclosed snow globes with heaters are the perfect way to comfortably enjoy the outdoor winter wonderland. Make your reservation and bring your friends for a festive gathering in a snow globe, sip on themed drinks and use nearby fireplaces to roast s’mores.
THUR-SAT Nov. 14Dec. 21
It’s never too early to start your holiday planning. Reservations and more information about Winter Nights will be available in October at waltonartscenter.org
The most trusted brand in stand-up comedy, The Comedy Zone, is back this season and funnier than ever.
When some of the best names in comedy take the microphone in Starr Theater, you can expect lots of laughs and a night to remember in a setting that rivals big-city comedy clubs. You’ll see some of the hottest comedians in the country who have been featured on Comedy Central, HBO Comedy, Netflix, Hulu, CMT, BET, Just for Laughs, Dry Bar, Sirius XM and more!
Stay tuned to our website and social media to see a full Comedy Zone lineup, clips of the comedians and more!
A Culture Clash, a Little Love and a Lot of Laughs
Q&A with the Creators of Shucked: Robert Horn, Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally
8 SHOWS / Dec.
Shucked is the Tony Award® –winning musical comedy The Wall Street Journal calls “flat out hilarious!” And nobody
HORN: Shucked is about people from different cultures who come together and learn how to love and appreciate each other, and that’s the story of our relationship. We’re all three so different, and yet we
America. I think we all have an innate sense of where that line is, and we have no appetite for crossing it.
McANALLY: Robert is incredibly sensitive about this. He takes everyone’s feelings into account, even more than I would ever imagine is necessary. If there’s anything in there that he feels might be hurtful to even one person in the audience, he’ll just change it. And usually, the new line is even funnier than what he had before!
“...leading with love can change everything.”
- Brandy Clark
HORN: There’s this feeling a lot of people have that you’ve got to go to the big city to make it, but there are incredible success stories everywhere and these characters embody that. Their triumphs are just as meaningful as anybody else’s, as is their pain, and their love and their joy.
One of the messages of your show is about the need to break down walls and let the outside in, but clearly there’s danger in that. When Cobb County welcomes a stranger, in walks Gordy who is planning to fleece them. How do you reconcile this?
you already know, leading with love can change everything. This outsider starts out a bad guy, but with a little love he becomes a good man. It makes me cry to think about it.
Recommended for ages 10+. Contains adult themes, moments of adult language and a harvest of corny innuendo.
Show Underwriter: Brett & Kara Biggs
Alex Newell, Caroline Innerbichler, Kevin Cahoon, Andrew Durand and the original Broadway cast of SHUCKED. Photos: Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman.
A Standing Ovation for our Spectacular Volunteers
Our volunteers give their time and talents to help us operate every single day. They welcome you to the theater, scan your ticket and help you find your seat. In addition to working public performances, volunteers also give their time to support our school shows, special events such as Art of Wine and Masquerade Ball, and assist our staff with administrative tasks throughout the year.
No matter your background or interests, you can find a fun, rewarding, inspiring place to serve at Walton Arts Center on our volunteer team.
Based on a recent survey of our volunteers, there are some definite shared interests but also varied backgrounds:
+ 40 volunteers have visited five or more countries.
+ 22 are from the education field or are currently a student (other professions include healthcare, sales and marketing, public service, the Armed Forces and so many more).
+ 39 said their favorite series at Walton Arts Center is the Procter and Gamble Broadway Series.
+ Many play instruments or participate in community theater, and one volunteer was a magic clown for 30 years!
+ L anguages they speak include Spanish, Bengali, Hindi, Urdu, Russian, French, German and Filipino.
+ 74% live in Washington County, but the team also includes residents of Centerton, Rogers, Bentonville, Lowell, Bella Vista, Siloam Springs, Garfield and Kingston.
Between July 2023 and June 2024, our volunteers donated nearly 21,000 hours, scanned over 72,000 tickets and stuffed over 49,000 OnStage magazines with show programs.
Of the 222-person volunteer crew,
+ Three have served over 30 years.
+ Three have served over 25 years.
+ Five have served over 20 years.
+ 16 have served 15 years.
+ 50 have served for five or more years.
No matter your background or interests, you can find a fun, rewarding, inspiring place to serve at Walton Arts Center on our volunteer team. Volunteers surveyed said their favorite things about being a volunteer are the people they have met through volunteering and getting to see the performances.
If you are looking for a place to serve with like-minded individuals – join the volunteer team! More information is available at waltonartscenter.org/volunteer.
Walton Arts Center would like to share our appreciation for the many generous volunteers whose time and dedication make our programming possible.
Lori Acuncius
Heather Agerton
Bruce Ahrendsen
Jolene Ahrendsen
Jacque Allen
Michael Allen
Amy Anthony
Pamela Austin
Pat Bader
Ray Bader
Cassie Baker
Ruth Baker
Jeanie Baltz
Andreina Barrett
Diane Bashuk
Betsy Batey
Bobbye Beecher
Chris Bell
Marianne Bieker
David Boddie
Karmen Boddie
Cathe Bowman
Karla Bradley
Sharon Brasko
Lisa Breivogel
Ruth Brenneman
Barry Brown
Colleen Brown
Debi Buckley
Paula Burks
Amelia Catanzaro
Rene Cheek
Elaine Cheney
Kay Coley
Jennifer Cooksey
Karen Coyne
Diana Danforth
Rhonda Darden
Henry Daut
Shannon Davis
Jerry Davison
Judy Davison
Patti Deen
Mary DeGolyer
Melody DeVere
Dennis Dinkel
John Dixon
Rebecca Doretti
Helen Edsall
Mary Foster
Stephanie Freeman
Susan Garriss
Richard Gerety
Joel Giarrusso
Sue Gidney
Kimberly Gillow
Carrie Goff
Annette Goll
Sharon Gray
Avi Greene
Peggy Guccione
Nicole Gulas
Ann Hafar
Ali Haines
Gina Harris
Mark Harris
Mary Harvey
Curtis Hendricks
Jeremy Hess
Jeanne Hickman
Candace Hoggatt
Diana Hoke
Gayle Howard
Lee Howard
Kathryn Hunt
Farzana Huq
Amy Huycke
Mark Huycke
Carole Jackson
Katie Jackson
Mark Jackson
Linda Jenkins
Donn Johnson
Paula Johnson
Rick Jones
Rifat Ara Karim
Mila Karp
Joyce Keller
Kathy Knight
Susan Knight Harder
Catherine Koch
Chuck Kraeger
Jenny Lee
Annette Lewis
Michael Lietzke
Morgan Lindsey
Pamela Lipinski
Annee Littell
Marj Little
Gabrielle Marcy
Pam Marsh
Leslie Martinez
Denise May
Sharon McCone
Donna McKellar
Barbara McMullen
Julie Mellor
Diane Merritt
Laura Minick
James Minyard
Shannon Mitchell
Nancy Mock
Mario Moreno
Pat Moriarity
Peggy Moriarity
Maureen Neagle
Rachel Nielsen
Uche Ofodile
Carl Owens
David Owens
Sunshine Owens
Janet Oxford
Mary Oxford
Michael Oxford
Allie Peduto
Tom Perry
Jeannie Philpott
Kymberli Philpott
Ann Porta
Ronit Portet
Leslie Redmon
Laurie Reh
Teresita Reisinger
Robyn Rektor
Jerry Retallick
MariAnne Retallick
Joyce Richards
Jacki Riffey
Connie Robbins
Barbara Salmons
Joe Salmons
Anita Sampley
Charlotte Shaffer
Terri Shea
Teresa Shelden
Clifton Sherrer
Paulette Sherrer
Jeanne Silvestri
Charlotte Sorenson
Carol Spears
Stephanie Springate
Shelley Steele
Peggy Stovesand
Kerry Stricker
Jerald Swenson
Marie Swenson
Jhonnie Taylor
Lauren Terry
Theresa Thibado
Sharon Thomason
Vicki Thompson
Becky Timmons
Patty Tisdale
Peter Tooker
Peggy Treiber
Marc Villalva
Carol Vogler
Fawne Wallace
Ben Walworth
Terry Wamsher
Rana Weidman
Laura Welkey
Yvette Wilkins
Angelika Will
Tiff Wimberly
Rachel Wolverton
Donna Wood
Michael Wulf
Susan Wylie
Nan Yarnelle
Katy Young
Amanda Zoellick
Friends Enjoy Annual New York City Arts Tour
By Elyse Partee, development project specialist
This past March, a group of 27 Walton Arts Center patrons and staff headed to New York City for a whirlwind week of performances, sightseeing and dining. A special opportunity for Friends of Walton Arts Center, this annual trip is designed to be an unforgettable experience for both frequent and first-time New York City visitors.
“It’s not just about the destinations, it’s about connecting with fellow arts enthusiasts who are passionate about enriching our community,” says Becky Brink, vice president of development.
In addition to shows at the renowned Metropolitan Opera, New York Philharmonic and New York Pops, members of the group attended up to six of Broadway’s hottest musicals, including the 2023 Tony®winning best musical Kimberly Akimbo and the brand-new Water for Elephants. Trip excursions included Grand Central Station, the Tenement Museum and The Morgan Library & Museum. Guests also stepped into the studio with working artists and enjoyed a dinner and jazz showcase in the home of musicians Amina Figarova and Bart Platteau.
A traveler on the 2023 trip said the NYC experience is their favorite Friends perk. “We saw Broadway shows, met artists in person, visited museums, attended the symphony at Carnegie Hall and even the opera at the Metropolitan Opera. We always come home with great memories of good times shared with friends.”
For pricing and information about the spring 2025 New York trip, contact Walton Arts Center’s Development Team at 479.974.1506 or giving@waltonartscenter.org.
Create an Arts Legacy
Make a lasting impact on the arts in Northwest Arkansas with a legacy gift. By naming Walton Arts Center as a beneficiary in your will, trust, life insurance or retirement account, you can support enriching arts experiences for generations to come.
This thoughtful act, which has little or no current financial impact on you, may result in the largest and most lasting one-time gift you ever make.
Ensure your legacy today.
To learn about the options for making a legacy gift that benefits Walton Arts Center, call Becky Brink, vice president of development, at 479.316.7504.
Sensory-Friendly Performances Welcome All to the Theater
“Nancy and I want to give back to an organization that has meant so much to us over the years. By including Walton Arts Center in our will, we are making a legacy gift that will impact the next generation and keep the arts accessible for everyone in our community.”
- Dick Trammel
Select performances in our season are adapted to incorporate modifications for adults and children with autism, sensory-input, development or cognitive challenges. These minor adjustments can help people feel more comfortable and can make attending the theater more accessible.
“All patrons are welcome at these special ‘non-shushing’ performances,” says Sallie Zazal, director of learning and engagement at Walton Arts Center. “That means come as you are! React how you feel comfortable. Laugh and interact with your friends and siblings ... Our staff will not shush you.”
Some of the adjustments for these performances include lowering sound levels and dimming lights instead of turning the house lights fully off, allowing patrons to speak and vocalize as they wish and making available fidget toys, activity areas and gender-neutral restrooms.
For more information, including what to expect and a full list of modifications, scan this QR code.
SCAN HERE
Sensory-Friendly Performance This Season
How the Grinch Stole
Christmas! The Musical Thursday, Nov. 14, 1:30pm
Dick and Nancy Trammel
James Schultz as THE GRINCH and the Touring Company of DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL. Photo: Jeremy Daniel
Arts With Education Institute Engages and Empowers Local Educators
By Dr. Patricia Relph, arts learning specialist
In 1991, Walton Arts Center and Northwest Arkansas Education Service Cooperative became Founding Partners in Education with the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The program created partnerships between arts organizations and school systems, with a special emphasis on the professional development of teachers.
“Arts integration made me a better teacher and leader...”
- Josh Vest principal, Cooper Elementary School
The Arts With Education (AWE) Institute was one of the first programs Walton Arts Center developed specifically for teachers. Using hands-on, interactive workshops, AWE Institute shows teachers how to use the arts in their curriculum, making it more engaging and effective for all students.
The first AWE Institutes were two weeks of professional development with national and international arts educators. The AWE Institute has since become an annual week-long professional development program, in partnership with other arts organizations, that brings together educators from around the region to learn arts integration techniques for the classroom.
Over the past decade, Walton Arts Center has invited teachers to learn techniques as a team and to practice integrating the arts in
their curriculum. Arts integration helps foster critical thinking, builds cooperative teamwork and meets Arkansas learning standards. AWE teachers understand that when the arts are present in the classroom, both students and educators are deeply engaged.
Teaching artists at AWE Institute have included Kennedy Center educator Jack Carr, choreographer Chuck Davis and the African American Dance Ensemble, musician Guy Davis, playwright Robert Ford, Hawaiian arts educator Mauliola Cook and arts integration consultants Sean Layne, Melanie Rick and Kassie Misiewicz.
“This experience was a game changer for me personally and professionally,” said Josh Vest, principal at Cooper Elementary School. “Arts integration made me a better teacher and leader by giving me strategies that helped students build skills within and outside of the arts. I learned the value of utilizing arts integration to help students master my content area’s standards, build collaboration skills and expand their creativity – a skill often set aside in the classroom.”
Nearly 1,300 trained teachers have completed the program and now positively impact more than 500 students every year by integrating arts into their lesson plans.
+ T hursday, Oct. 24, 5:30pm Friday, Oct. 25, 6:30pm S aturday, Oct. 26, 6:30pm
+ T hursday, Dec. 19, 5:30pm Friday, Dec. 20, 6:30pm S aturday, Dec. 21, 6:30pm
+ Friday, Feb. 21, 6:30pm S aturday, Feb. 22, 6:30pm S unday, Feb. 23, 6pm
+ T hursday, March 20, 5:30pm Friday, March 21, 6:30pm S aturday, March 22, 6:30pm
+ T hursday, April 10, 5:30pm Friday, April 11, 6:30pm S aturday, April 12, 6:30pm
Shake, Shake, Shake, Señora!
For just $39 you can join a cocktail class and learn to make two specialty drinks while enjoying light hors d’oeuvres. The ticket includes ingredients and supplies and you’ll leave with recipe cards, great memories and new friends. You’ll be done in time to catch a show or grab dinner on Dickson Street.
“This is a space for everyone, from beginners to experts, to come together and learn something new,” says Whitlee Douthitt, special events manager at Walton Arts Center. “We love seeing people come to a class for date nights, birthday parties and girls’ night out. You don’t need a ticket to participate! Take the recipes home and impress your family and friends with your new mixology skills.”
Patrons 21 and up are welcome. Show tickets are sold separately but not necessary to attend the class.
Beetlejuice
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch
Stole Christmas! The Musical Helps Rediscover the Magic of Christmas
Originally published in Playbill
8 SHOWS / Nov. 12-17
Theodore Seuss Geisel began his career as a cartoonist in the 1920s after one of his fellow Oxford students noticed him spending more time doodling in class than taking notes. Not long after that, his work began appearing in magazines with the name “Dr. Theophrastus Seuss” next to them, which the cartoonist quickly shortened to “Dr. Seuss.”
Geisel often said that the inspirations for his stories were mysteries to him, with the exception of The Cat In The Hat and Grinch. In both of those characters the author found pieces of himself. Michael Frith, Seuss’ editor, said “The Cat in the Hat and Ted Geisel were inseparable and the same ... This is someone who delighted in the chaos of life, who delighted in the seeming insanity of the world around him.” Just after The Grinch Who Stole Christmas appeared, Geisel explained to Redbook that on the morning of the day after Christmas, he looked in the mirror and thought to himself that he looked a little “Grinchish.” So he wrote
Sensory-friendly performance
Thursday, Nov. 14
See page 33 for more info
the story about the sour Mr. Grinch to see if he could rediscover something about Christmas he felt he had lost. Now, 67 years later, his timeless Christmas tale comes to Walton Arts Center Nov. 12-17 as a full-scale Broadway musical production.
Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical features the hit songs “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas” (written by Albert Hague and Dr. Seuss) from the original animated series. Max the Dog narrates this classic holiday tale that will entertain the whole family as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” decides to steal Christmas away from the Whos, an endlessly cheerful bunch bursting with holiday spirit.
So if you look in the mirror and think you look a little “Grinchish,” get your tickets now for Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical and rediscover the magic of Christmas you may have lost!
Show Underwriter:
Starr Foundation & Family in Memory of Billie Jo Starr
Photos: Jeremy Daniel
Your Home for Live Music
Around here, there is no shortage of live music (see amptickets.com for more). Three Walton Arts Center series bring some of the biggest names in music to Northwest Arkansas, and you can enjoy them in an intimate setting. This season, hear some of the greatest songs ever created, or deep dive into new works from your favorite artists.
Land O’Lakes Concert Series
Baum Walker Hall provides the perfect stage for bigger bands and musical acts that have devoted fanbases. This series includes a variety of genres and provides a great listening experience.
Keb’ Mo’ with Shawn Colvin Friday, Oct. 4
Lyle Lovett and his Large Band Sunday, Oct. 13
Kristin Chenoweth
Tuesday, Dec. 3
Ben Folds: Paper Airplane Request Tour
Saturday, Dec. 14
Classic Albums
Live: Abbey Road
Friday, Feb. 7
The Simon & Garfunkel Story
Tuesday, Feb. 18
seating in Starr Theater.
Sean Mason Quartet Saturday, Sept. 7
Rio Meets New Orleans Jazz Trio with Peter Martin, Romero Lubambo and Anat Cohen Friday, Oct. 18
Jonathan Kreisberg Friday, Dec. 6
René Marie Friday, Jan. 31
Billy Stritch Saturday, Feb. 15
Matt Wilson’s Good Trouble Quintet Saturday, March 8
West Street Live
Presented by Neil Pendergraft
Inspired by hometown heroes and musical greats, performances by the renowned singer-songwriters of West Street Live are a lyric lover’s dream. These intimate performances are in Starr Theater, set cabaret style with tiered seating and a limited number of tables to create the ultimate listening experience.
Barrett Baber Friday, Nov. 1
Tinsley Ellis Saturday, Nov. 23
Suzy Bogguss Friday, Jan. 24
The Burney Sisters Friday, March 7
Rodney Crowell Friday, May 30
Keb’ Mo’
Sean Mason
The Simon & Garfunkel Story
Billy Stritch and Gabrielle Stravelli
Rodney Crowell
The Burney Sisters
Suzy Bogguss
Kristin Chenoweth
Helping Business Leaders Become Arts Advocates
Northwest Arkansas has a history of producing great business minds and entrepreneurs. While many of these business leaders are interested in giving back to the community, they may not know how to get involved and offer support.
Walton Arts Center’s Corporate Leadership Council engages and connects corporate teams and businesses to our programming and mission. CLC helps these business leaders develop a deep passion for and understanding of the arts, inviting them to become effective advocates for the arts in our community.
CLC members represent a variety of companies – from small, local businesses to international brands – that participate in fundraising, awareness and outreach efforts for the organization while also networking and enjoying professional development opportunities. CLC’s signature fundraising event, Masquerade Ball, has raised over $1.3 million since 2010 for Walton Arts Center’s arts education programming. Funds raised by the CLC at Masquerade Ball help remove financial barriers for students like ticket fees and bus costs, increasing access to high-quality arts programming for all kids in Northwest Arkansas.
In 2022, CLC member Ryan Harrington, vice president of sales for General Mills, challenged the council to come up with a new fundraising event that would deepen the connection between Walton Arts Center and the Walmart AMP. Most people don’t realize that Walton Arts Center and its nonprofit mission are supported by funds earned through the Walmart AMP, a for-profit venue that that it owns and operates.
The 30 members of the CLC were excited about the opportunity to help people understand that direct connection through a new fun event and intimate benefit concert, AMP Up the Arts. The inaugural event in September, featuring hip-hop icon Nelly, was conceptualized by the CLC with Latriece Watkins, executive vice president and chief merchandising officer at Walmart U.S., serving as the honorary chair.
“One of [our] top priorities...is bringing access to the arts to students in our community.”
- Ryan Harrington, vice president of sales for General Mills
“I still, to this day, remember the first performing arts experience that I had, and it forever changed my life,” said Tony Waller, CLC cochair and vice president of constituent relations and racial equity at Walmart. “To think that we could have an impact in making sure that every child in Northwest Arkansas has a similar experience is key for me, and I’m just glad that we’re able to do this work.”
“The Walmart AMP has brought so much back to us at General Mills in terms of how we fit the AMP into our team culture,” says Harrington. “One of the top priorities we see working together with Walton Arts Center is bringing access to the arts to students in our community.”
For information about how you can join the Corporate Leadership Council, please contact sponsorship@waltonartscenter.org
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