Meet Four of the ACA-Awesome Teams Competing at VoiceJam Part II

The annual VoiceJam A Cappella Festival on April 12-13 brings the best a cappella groups from across the country to compete at Walton Arts Center.  We asked each of the eight groups who are competing a few questions to learn more about them! Learn more about PFC, Voices, Volt and Trillium below. Missed the first installment of this blog? Check it out here!

Tickets to the Take 6 concert and the VoiceJam Competition are on sale now. Want to see both shows? Then purchase a combo ticket for just $29. Tickets are available online at waltonartscenter.org, by visiting the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am–2 pm or by calling the box office at 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am-5 pm. 

PFC – MacArthur High School, San Antonio 

What  is in your repertoire? 

“Through Me” by Hozier, “Here” by Alessia Cara and “Dog Days Are Over” by Florence & The Machine. 

How did you come up with the name for your group? What is the story behind it? 
PFC (Premiere & Final Cut) were originally two separate groups. One of the groups, Final Cut, was a barbershop group and Premiere was an all-treble group. They merged in the early 2000s, and over time the group has evolved into the PFC we have today! 

Do you have any pre-show rituals or warm-ups? If so, what are they? 
One of our pre-show rituals is the “Hokey Pokey” which has been a tradition since before any of us knew what PFC was. Another ritual we have is that all our members wear a gold glitter stripe on the left side of their face. This has been a tradition ever since 2020, PFC wore it at the International Competition of High School A Cappella and performed a set that meant a lot to us all.  

What songs, artists or genres of music are you currently listening to on your personal playlists – give us your top 5? 

Some of our favorite artists at the moment are Noah Kahan, Fleetwood Mac, Taylor Swift, Infinity Song and Sammy Rae & The Friends. 

What does your group like to do in their free time? 
As a high school group, a lot of us are the busiest we have ever been, but that doesn’t stop us from making time to hang out as a group! Half of our high school career has been spent goofing off in the back of the choir room with each other. Outside of school, PFC loves to watch movies, eat (A LOT), thrift and cry together. (In fact, we have had the nickname “people frequently crying” in recent years!)  

What’s one thing you want people to know about your group?  

The special thing about PFC is that our priority is our audience and what message we are sending them. We embody intense emotions and stories through song, healing ourselves along the way, and knowing that someone in the audience needed to hear our message too. We hope our audience leaves our performance knowing that there is hope and feeling empowered. The art we create together is so sacred to us, and on top of that, WE SOUND GREAT! 

Voices  – University of Arkansas 

What  is your repertoire? 

This semester we are working on many things: a Duke Ellington medley, “Zing! Went the Strings of My Heart,” a couple of Jacob Collier pieces, Eric Whitacre’s “Lux Aurumque,” Irving Berlin’s “Blue Skies,” “Smile,” Santana’s “Yaleo” and Take 6’s “So Much 2 Say”. We’re also keeping a couple of pieces from Fall 2023 such as Highline’s “How High the Moon” and “The Nearness of You” by Norah Jones. 

Does your group work with precisely notated music, or do you improvise? 

We do both! Most of the music is learned with notated scores, however we mix in improvision within many of those scores and usually open our programs with an improvisational piece. 

How did you come up with the name for your group? What is the story behind it? 

We took inspiration from the famed New York Voices 

What songs, artists or genres of music are you currently listening to on your personal playlists – give us your top 5? 

Our top five artists are Stevie Wonder, Donnie Hathaway, Daniel Caesar, Samara Joy, and Whitney Houston. 

What does your group like to do in their free time? 

We like to fish! 

What’s one thing you want people to know about your group?  

We are a versatile group of singers. Some of us sing opera, some sing jazz, pop, theatre, folk and many other styles. Some double as instrumentalists. Some of us are music majors, some of us are not. Some of us are graduate students, some of us are undergraduates. What brings us together is our love for singing, harmony, rhythm and the chance to perform with such a small, but powerful group of voices. 

Volt – University of Tennessee, Knoxville 

What  is your repertoire? 

Our repertoire contains a wide selection of genres from alternative to pop to choral pieces.  

Does your group work with precisely notated music, or do you improvise? 

For the most part our songs are performed as written in the music, but our soloists are encouraged to personalize their part. 

How did you come up with the name for your group? What is the story behind it? 

Volt was chosen as the name for our group to represent our school by incorporating “Vol” for the Volunteers. The word “volt” was chosen because it displays the idea of constant energy being produced, which was an objective for the group when it originated. 

Do you have any pre-show rituals or warm-ups? If so, what are they? 

On the day of a show, we always meet up, order food and get ready together. We find it’s a good way to relax and hang out after weeks of intense rehearsals.  

What songs, artists or genres of music are you currently listening to on your personal playlists – give us your top 5? 

Right now, our group members are currently listening to music by Taylor Swift, Lizzie McAlpine, Denzel Curry, SZA and Olivia Rodrigo. 

What’s one thing you want people to know about your group?  

Our group was created so that non-music majors at the University of Tennessee could participate in collegiate a cappella. With that being said, our group is made up of students with all different majors.  

 

Trillium – Dallas/Fort Worth  

What  is your repertoire? 

We will be singing “DID U RLY?” by Sayak Das, a Hozier mashup called “First Light/Who We Are” and “Tears” by RAYE. 

Does your group work with precisely notated music, or do you improvise? 

We mostly work with notated music but we have in the past done self-arrangements as well as improvised harmonies. 

How did you come up with the name for your group? What is the story behind it? 

Our group name is Trillium, it is a beautiful flower with many colors. We really liked the flower and thought it would be a cool name for our group, plus it’s something we haven’t seen in the a cappella sphere. 

Do you have any pre-show rituals or warm-ups? If so, what are they? 

We do box breathing as a group to calm any nerves, as well as some pep talks and occasional dance breaks. 

What songs, artists or genres of music are you currently listening to on your personal playlists – give us your top 5? 

We love R&B and pop, as well as some alternative, “Don’t Lose Sight” by Lawrence, “Something New” by Kristen Cruz, “Flintstones” by Jacob Collier, “Late Again” by Peter Manos and “Change by Djo. 

What’s one thing you want people to know about your group?  

We love having fun and getting to know all the other groups at competitions, our goal as a group has always been to spread positivity within the a cappella community. We also just recently came out with a music video, “bet u wanna” on all streaming platforms and YouTube. 


VoiceJam Festival Schedule   

VoiceJam Kickoff Concert – Take 6 

Friday, April 12 | 8 pm   

All tickets are $10   

 

VoiceJam Workshops 

Saturday, April 13 | 9 am – 5 pm   

   

VoiceJam Competition 

Saturday, April 13 | 7:30 pm   

Tickets are $27  

From Hot Flashes to High Seas

All aboard, sisters! The hysterical sequel to the smash-hit Menopause The Musical® launches its first national tour and is making a stop at Walton Arts Center on Saturday, March 2 at 3 pm. Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change’® finds our original characters aboard a cruise ship, reunited for more high jinks on the high seas, five years later.  

This new sequel is a hilarious and heartfelt look at the joys of friendship — plus hot flashes, mood swings, and memory lapses. The original menopause characters, “Earth Mother,” “Soap Star,” “Iowa Housewife” and “Professional Woman” return for this iconic sequel. For these four ladies, menopause was not the end, but the beginning of a beautiful friendship where love conquers all, and friendships never fail. Their sisterhood strengthens as they support one another through the chaos of “the change” and all that it brings. Join these women on a trip of self-discovery, backed by a new soundtrack of toe-tapping parodied hits from the 70s, 80s and 90s including “Holding Out For A Hero” becomes “Holding Out For A Vino” and “Disco Inferno” becomes “AC Inferno.” 

“I loved performing in Menopause the Musical because of the amazing response from the audience,” explained actress Valerie Fagan. “I was so thrilled when they asked me to do the sequel because I knew we’d get that same kind of reaction from the audience. I’ve been in so many great shows in my life, but I can honestly say I’ve never experienced the level of laughter and cheers from an audience like this before.” 

Producers of the musical explain they want women to feel sexy, bold and confident in their new bodies. They also want women to feel like they’re getting to gossip with their best friends, as the characters explore dating, sex, weigh gain and hot flashes in their menopausal years.  Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change’ makes men take a pause and women rejoice! 

Experience this fresh, fun and flirtatious new musical, that feels like a vacation, on Saturday, March 2 at 3 pm. Tickets start at $39 and can be purchased by visiting waltonartscenter.org, by calling 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am until 5 pm or in-person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm.   

Honoring Black History Month on Our Stages

Every February, the U.S. honors the contributions and sacrifices of Black and African Americans who have helped shape the nation. Black History Month celebrates the rich cultural heritage, triumphs and adversities that are an indelible part of our country's history. 

As the nation reflects on Black History Month, we want to highlight some of the amazing Black artists and creatives who are performing or showcasing their work at Walton Arts Center this spring.  

If you are looking for shows to see this month to mark the celebration, we have a few suggestions: 

Company

The five-time Tony Award® winning musical Company is bringing its groundbreaking musical comedy to Walton Arts Center for eight performances Feb. 20-25. In this gender-swapped Broadway revival (Stephen Sondheim originally cast the lead as a male Bobby) actress Britney Coleman plays Bobbie in the smash hit and leads the first national tour of the show.  

Coleman was born and raised in Ann Arbor, Mich., where she found her love for theater early on.  

“Growing up, my parents had a season subscription to a theatre in Detroit, and I think about if baby Britney had seen someone who looked like me up there doing that, it would have been a game-changer” Coleman told Broadwaydirect.com “To know it had been done would have been thrilling to me instead of questioning every step of my career and asking ‘Is there space for me?’ I’m excited to be that for a lot of little Britney’s out there.” 

Coleman has found her space in theater and performed in multiple productions on Broadway including Tootsie, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Sunset Boulevard and Company where she was the understudy for the role of Bobbie in 2021.  

With a sumptuous score from Stephen Sondheim, Company follows Bobbie navigating life and love in New York City as a 35-year-old unmarried woman with her coupled-up friends giving advice along the way. As Bobbie searches for answers, she discovers why being single, being married and being alive in the 21st century could drive a person crazy. 

Ailey II

If you love contemporary dance, don’t miss Ailey II, founded in 1974 as the Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble. The company embodies Ailey’s pioneering mission to establish an extended cultural community that provides dance performances, training and community programs for all people.  

Dance Magazine calls Ailey II "second to none," and The New York Times declares, "There's nothing like an evening spent with Ailey II, the younger version of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater." 

Alvin Ailey founded Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1958 to carry out his vision of a company dedicated to enriching the American modern dance heritage and preserving the uniqueness of the African-American cultural experience. He established the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center (now The Ailey School) in 1969 and formed the Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble (now Ailey II) in 1974. Ailey was a pioneer of programs promoting arts in education, particularly those benefiting underserved communities. Throughout his lifetime, he was awarded numerous distinctions, including the Kennedy Center Honor in 1988 in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to American culture. In 2014, he posthumously received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the country’s highest civilian honor, in recognition of his contributions and commitment to civil rights and dance in America. 

Truly an inclusive company focused on outreach and accessibility, Ailey II is known worldwide for merging the spirit and energy of the country’s finest emerging dance talent with passion and creative vision. Sylvia Waters was selected by Ailey to be its founding artistic director, and she helped Ailey II to flourish into one of the most popular modern dance companies, combining a rigorous touring schedule with extensive community outreach programs. This outstanding group will perform on Tuesday, Feb. 27 at 7 pm. 

Featuring Black artists and their stories on our stages is not limited to February, so make plans now to see these shows this spring.

Jackie Venson

Rising star Jackie Venson’s wicked guitar solos and radiating glow has everyone taking note. Born and raised in Austin, Texas, Venson has traveled the world playing to crowds both as a headliner and as support for major acts such as Keb’ Mo”, Gary Clark Jr., Aloe Blacc, Melissa Etheridge and Citizen Cope. Her blazing guitar skills and beautifully complex music connect listeners to the magic around them. For Venson, one thing she always holds true – she's going to play her music, speak her truth and spread as much joy as she can doing it. Experience this performance like no other on Friday, April 5 at 7:30 pm. 

Take 6

You can spend an evening with “the baddest vocal cats on the planet,” according to Quincy Jones, when Take 6 performs as part of VoiceJam A Cappella Festival. Receiving praise from luminaries including Ray Charles and Ella Fitzgerald – the multi-Platinum® a cappella sextet has collaborated across genres and toured the globe with their funky grooves that bubble into an intoxicating brew of gospel, jazz, R&B and pop. Winners of 10 Grammy Awards®, 10 Dove Awards, a Soul Train Award and a place in the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, everyone is taking note of Take 6. Don’t miss their Northwest Arkansas premier debut as the festival headliner on Friday, April 12 at 8 pm. 

Ashli St. Armant is bringing her debut theatrical production, NORTH to our stage. This musical for kids and families is a moving story that explores the multi-faceted reality of Black life during the antebellum period and aims to bring out the full range of experiences of freedom seekers during that time. While acknowledging the realities of slavery, the narrative explores themes of optimism, bravery, playfulness, wonder, suspense and mystery.  

NORTH

Set in the 1850s, NORTH is based on actual accounts of slave escapes through the Underground Railroad network, as well as St. Armant’s personal family history of overcoming slavery in Louisiana. This production features original musical compositions steeped in jazz and other historically Black music genres. St. Armant drew inspiration from an array of musical heroes including crooner Nat King Cole, gospel singer Mahalia Jackson, the father of Afrobeat Fela Kuti and legendary lyricist Stephen Sondheim.  Experience this moving and personal theatrical production on Sunday, April 28 at 4 pm. 

Walton Arts Center is proud to spotlight the phenomenal Black artists and creatives who continue to shape and enrich our cultural landscape. The commemoration doesn't end in February, these performances invite audiences to join us in honoring and embracing the contributions of Black artists throughout the entire year. 

Sensory Friendly Performances Makes Theater Accessible to All

This season, Walton Arts Center is offering two sensory-friendly performances of children’s theater, BRUSH Theatre’s Poli POP! And tutti frutti’s The Boy Who Cried Wolf. These performances have been adapted to incorporate special modifications for adults and children with sensory-input disorders, autism or other developmental or cognitive disability, as well as anyone who might feel uncomfortable attending a typical live theater performance.   

All patrons are welcome at these special performances, however in order to make the shows more accessible to all individuals and their families, we will make adjustments to these productions in some or all of the following ways: 

  • Sound in the production will be lowered, particularly for loud or startling sounds.  

  • Lights in the seating area will be dimmed rather than fully dark during the performance.  

  • Patrons are allowed to speak and vocalize as they wish, as well as leave and re-enter the seating area as needed.  

  • The use of mobile electronic devices are allowed during the performance if they are being used as a communication device. Photography or recording will still not be permitted.  

  • Outside the theater, an activity area will be available with a live video feed of the show for patrons who may need a break. A calming corner with fidget toys and bean-bag chairs will also be available for those who need a quiet place to relax.  

  • Audience members are welcome to bring any necessary food, drinks or hand fidgets into the theater.  

  • A family restroom (gender-neutral) will be available for use.  

Both productions are fun opportunities to introduce theater to the young and young at heart through technology and captivating storytelling.   

In BRUSH Theatre’s Poli POP!, Poli and Pola don’t want to go to sleep. The siblings start off playing with toys in their bedroom, but then their imagination takes them on a surreal dreamlike journey full of surprise and joy. BRUSH Theatre uses incredible technology and special effects to transform the set from an empty room to distant islands, roaring seas, the Egyptian desert, busy cities, dance parties and more!  But the duo doesn’t know there’s something else lurking in the shadows…a ferocious alien monster. What will they do? Join us on Tuesday, Feb. 13 at 7 pm to find out, tickets are only $10! 

tutti frutti’s The Boy Who Cried Wolf, is inspired by Aesop’s famous fable, this is a beautifully crafted production about a boy who learns that “nobody believes a liar, even when they’re telling the truth.” Watch a gifted ensemble of actor/musicians play and sing live on stage, embodying all the delightful characters — hilarious sheep, a scary wolf or two and a village of knitters with fingers flicking and needles clicking. Enjoy this classic story in a sensory-friendly setting on Tuesday, March 5 at 7 pm, tickets are only $10! 

For more information about the shows, our sensory-friendly setting or to purchase tickets you can visit waltonartscenter.org, call 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am until 5 pm or go in-person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm.

BIPOC Film Fest Celebrates Locally Produced Films

Films, no matter their plot, have the power to create change across communities, elicit intense emotions and start conversations among all people. All around Arkansas, film makers are sharing their stories in a variety of ways and Fayetteville Film Festival and Walton Arts Center are thrilled to highlight these incredible films.  

This mini film festival showcases minority voices and honors their stories and artistic expression. This is one of four collaborative film showcases between the two arts organizations this season. Each is designed to bring diverse and global cinema to local audiences to enrich our understanding of our neighbors and of the world at large. Fayetteville Film Fest and Walton Arts Center will present an evening of film featuring works created by Black, Indigenous and People of Color on Saturday, Feb. 3 at 8 pm.  

We asked each producer a few questions to gain their insights and inspirations about their respective films. Read more below!

Denzel Jenkins – The Measure of a Man

Denzel Jenkins, a Los Angeles based producer, shot his film The Measure of a Man for his thesis project at USC. His film was inspired by a heated conversation he had with his father over the phone. Jenkins is a survivor of rape/sexual assault, during his conversation with his father, it was revealed that his father was molested when he was young. Jenkins explained, “that experience along with having a mentor that pushed me to be bolder with my storytelling, inspired me to write this story.” 

The Measure of a Man has been shown at the USC screening, The Micheaux Film Festival, Arkansas Cinema Society Filmland, Fayetteville Film Festival and BHERC Reel Black Men Short Film Showcase. Jenkins ultimately hopes this film helps viewers create healing spaces for anyone who has experienced a related trauma. “I also want for people’s minds to shift and to treat this topic without it coming across as taboo like these things don't happen to men.” 

Daniel Beltram – Baking

Daniel Beltram’s film, Baking, was inspired by the idea of the “American Dream” and how this dream is not what is used to be for second and third generation immigrants. Beltram explained, “my inspiration for this film was this feeling of being somewhere that is supposedly better, opportunity wise, from where my family came from, but not feeling that to necessarily be true.” His inspiration also stems from long nights of loneliness and boredom. Beltram features his best friends in his film and adapted the story to match his best friend’s experiences, “he came to the U.S. at the age of eight and it hasn't always been easy for him, but together we've always dreamed big and punched above our weight.” 

Beltram believes showing this film is extremely important to help quiet the misconceptions people have about Latinos and what they look like. Beltram told us “being Latino is such a diverse ethnicity in itself and I'm learning more and more about the incredible diaspora of people across Latin America and I'm constantly inspired." Baking was shot in both Cabot and Conway, Arkansas. Beltram used these locations because he felt they truly represented the inspiration of the film as well as the experience of growing up as a Hispanic in a small town. 

When asked what he wants viewers to take away from the film, Beltram said “I hope viewers can watch the film and understand that this is a story about being an immigrant. I feel like a lot of people my age are stuck in a weird place where they don't feel American, but they don't also feel like where their family is from. I hope viewers can gain an insight or at least relate to that constant battle with cultural identity.” 

Michael Day – All Units

All Units is a film inspired by a dating experience from one of the cast members along with the 2020 protests surrounding George Floyd, Breanna Taylor and Amaud Aubrey. The film was shot by Michael Day in Northwest Arkansas at a cast members’ residence and My-t-by-design.  

All Units has been featured in multiple film festivals across the U.S. and has hosted private screenings. The film has also been part of multiple showcases in Arkansas. Day says he hopes “people to take away from All Units is that for change to happen, we must all work together for a common goal: to be free.” 

Neba Evans – Song of the Bluff 

Song of the Bluff features a story about the city Pine Bluff, Arkansas, drawing inspiration from the negative stigma about the city. Producer Neba Evans shot 90% of the film in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, she is an alumna of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and explained that the community is near and dear to her heart. Evans shared, “I wanted to create a film that shared some historical context about Pine Bluff, as well as uplift it.” 

This film has been shown at Nurture the Narrative, which Evans co-curated with Micheaux Award and Film Labs. When asked about what she wants viewers to take from the fil, Evans said “I want viewers to know that there are amazing things that are happening in the city, and that community members are working to nurture their narrative and empower their town!” 

Additional showcases are Arkansas Filmmakers on Saturday, April 6; Indie Films Artosphere on Saturday, May 11; and LGBTQIA Filmmakers on Thursday, June 13.  

Tickets to all these film showcases are available now for $15 plus applicable fees. Purchase tickets by visiting waltonartscenter.org, by calling 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am until 5 pm or in-person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm. 

Get To Know Artists' Robyn Horn & Sandra Sell

Robyn Horn and Sandra Sell's work stands boldly at the intersection of art and craft. Creating unexpected forms from reclaimed wood, power tools, paintbrushes and canvas, these friends and artists independently create inspiring outcomes. Viewers can expect to see over 20 sculptural works on an architectural scale and paintings that illuminate their processes, including several pieces created exclusively for the exhibition. Presented in our Joy Pratt Markham Gallery with selections by local curator Kathy P. Thompson, this exhibition celebrates the legacy of women who live and create in Arkansas.  

The gallery is open now through April 21, 10 am – 2 pm weekdays and 60 minutes before most performances. The opening reception is Feb. 1 from 6 – 8 pm. You have three opportunities to hear directly from the artists during two gallery walk throughs, Thursday, April 4 at 1 pm and Friday, April 5 at 1 pm and a creative conversation on Thursday, April 4 at 7 pm.  

We asked both Horn and Sell a few questions to get more insight into their artwork and the exhibition that will be showcased.  

Sandra Sell:

How did you get started as an artist? 

At an early age I felt the desire to be an artist knowing I needed a way to support myself I joined the Army. Upon completing a career in the military, I relocated to Arkansas where I earned a Master of Arts in art from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. 

How will the paintings and sculptures relate in this exhibit? 

All my pieces begin as a sketch, these sketches are not locked into being 2-D or 3-D, though they may have initially started as one or the other. A single sketch can become the base design for multiple pieces. Graphite for drawing, oil for painting and carving for sculpture, it all comes down to mark making. 

What is one thing you want people to know about this exhibit? 

That it is an honor to show with Robyn, I have the utmost respect for her willingness to introduce the subtractive carving process to me. Having another artist to discuss thoughts and techniques aids in continued progress, sometimes it is as simple as “are you in the shop today?” I truly hope our passion for the process shows through the work. 

Robyn Horn:

How you get started as an artist?  

My career began with my fascination with wood. I started working on the lathe making things round. Soon after that I started carving the wood and gravitated more toward sculpture. My mother and my sister are painters, so being creative was encouraged in my family. I feel very lucky to have been able to make work for so long. It’s a very satisfying thing to be able to create things that have never existed before, things that I have designed and developed throughout my long career. 

How did the two of you start working together?  

Sandi saw a video that I had made that showed my process of carving a large redwood sculpture. She was getting toward the end of finishing her degree at UALR and she asked if she could come and visit me at my studio. We hit if off immediately and we began working together. At first, she was helping me with some of the larger carving, but soon she was making her own work and now we complement each other with ideas and concepts that we are both interested in, but which develop differently, each with our own style. 

How will the paintings and sculptures relate in this exhibit? 

I started making sculpture in the late 80’s. I didn’t begin to paint until about 2006. After painting for a few years, I looked back on my work and was surprised how much my paintings related to my sculptures. Both had a geometric look to them, both had layers with texture, so much so that the paintings almost looked three-dimensional. I had been working so long making wood sculpture that I had developed an artistic aesthetic that had transferred from my 3-D work to my 2-D work. I think they are related to each other.  

What do you hope viewers take away from this exhibit? 

There are so many good artists in the region that we are honored to be asked to show our work at the Walton Art Center. Ideally the viewers who come to the exhibition will see something inspirational they have never seen before, and hopefully it will be something that interests them long enough for them to spend some time with some of the work. We will be at the opening reception on February 1 from 6-8pm and at the Artist Walk-through April 4 at 1pm, a Creative Conversation in Walker Atrium April 4 at 7pm, and another Artist Walk-through April 5 at 1pm and will welcome questions about the exhibit.

What is one thing you want people to know about this exhibit?  

I feel very lucky to have been making art for so long. It has been very unusual to meet someone who has an interest in the same techniques I have, and who has applied the processes I use to create her own work that is dissimilar to my own. Sandi has gotten to the point where she has developed some new processes in addition to the ones I have used, and our shared interest in art is something I value greatly. We have grown from mentor and mentee to artists on an equal level, and this exhibit shows the results of that over the past 13 years. It also shows that artists can work in more than one medium (carved wood and painting) and develop work that is successful. 

Come see this free exhibition at Walton Arts Center and learn more about these Arkansas artists at robynhorn.com and sandrasell.com. Both artists also have work available at Justus Fine Art in Hot Springs. 

You Oughta Know – You Can See Jagged Little Pill and Help the Teen Action & Support Center

Walton Arts Center and Teen Action & Support Center have partnered for a hygiene product donation drive during Jagged Little Pill, Jan. 23-28. Patrons can bring new shampoo, conditioner, soap or deodorant when they see the show or drop off donations in Walton Arts Center’s lobby from 10 am until 2 pm weekdays or at TASC @ the Hub, 1194 W. Walnut St., Rogers.   

TASC is an NWA nonprofit that offers assistance for all teens, but especially those struggling with life changes, by giving them the tools and support to take action in their own lives and in the community. TASC will use these items for their teen-based support and prevention program, teen thrive.   

With offices in Rogers and Springdale, TASC provides counseling, job and life skill training, community volunteer opportunities and resources for young parents. Through their programs, teens build the skills needed to reach their full potential, to help see their dreams as a potential future and to make healthy life choices.

More about Jagged Little Pill: 

Joy, love, heartache, strength, wisdom, catharsis, LIFE – everything we’ve been waiting to see in a Broadway show – is here in this exhilarating, fearless new musical. Directed by Tony® winner Diane Paulus, Jagged Little Pill is an “electrifying, visceral and stunning” (The Hollywood Reporter) musical with an original story by Tony and Academy® Award-winning writer Diablo Cody.  

Ignited by Morissette’s groundbreaking lyrics and music – from beloved hits such as “You Oughta Know,” “Head Over Feet,” “Hand In My Pocket” and “Ironic”, to brand new songs written for the show – Jagged Little Pill features explosive choreography by Tony Award nominee and frequent Beyoncé collaborator Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui and the raw power of an onstage band under the Musical Supervision, Orchestrations and Arrangements of Grammy®, Tony and Pulitzer Prize winner Tom Kitt.  


Jagged Little Pill is recommended for ages 14 and up. Please note this production contains strong language, adult themes, drug use and moments of sexual violence that some may find upsetting. You live, you learn, you remember what it’s like to feel truly human at Jagged Little Pill.


Shows Dates & Times   

Tuesday, Jan. 23 at 7 pm   

Wednesday, Jan. 24 at 7 pm   

Thursday, Jan. 25 at 1:30 & 7 pm   

Friday, Jan. 26 at 8 pm   

Saturday, Jan. 27 at 2 & 8 pm   

Sunday, Jan. 28 at 2 pm  


10 Questions with 10x10 performers, Galvin Cello Quartet

Composed of members from China, Brazil, South Korea and the United States, Galvin Cello Quartet will showcase their musical talents at Walton Arts Center on Tuesday, Jan. 30 at 7 pm. Cellists Sihao He, Sydney Lee, Haddon Kay and Luiz Fernando Venturelli met as students at Northwestern University's Bienen School of Music in the studio of acclaimed pedagogue Hans Jørgen Jensen. 

The Galvin Quartet incorporates virtuosity and uniqueness through every individual bringing their own artistic nuance to the ensemble. We asked the quartet a few questions to get more insight into this unique group. 

What can audiences expect when they come see this performance? 

We’re bringing a new concert experience that you’ve never seen before. It’s a program that will be interactive and engaging and will take you on a journey to encounter the cello quartet and all its capabilities.   

From where do you draw inspiration for your art? 

We love to draw from the ethnic backgrounds of each of our members and explore the different genres and styles of music within each respective culture.   

What drew you to this performance field? 

Chamber music is a core part of the classical music world, but most importantly all four of us were friends before we played in the quartet, so performing together is just a fortunate opportunity we get to enjoy. 

Is there a story behind how you chose your name? 

When we were applying for the Fischoff competition we had to make recordings for the preliminary round. We devoted a large amount of time to recording in Northwestern’s Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall so we wanted to dedicate our group name to Mary B. Galvin.   

Do you have any pre-show rituals or warm-ups? If so, what are they? 

After a dress rehearsal, we all go back home to take long naps. Right before we go on stage we also like to eat bananas.   

Pick 5 words that best describe your work. 

Innovative, lush, sensational, captivating and virtuosic. 

What is the best advice that you have been given? 

One of the best pieces of advice that we’ve received is to play music that represents who we are as a group.   

Do you have a favorite part of your set to perform? 

We love to end our concerts with a bang with Piazolla’s La Muerte del Angel.   

What are some unique or memorable experiences you’ve had while traveling around the world to share your music? 

Our most memorable experience is driving 20 hours in a minivan across the country with all of our cellos and luggage asking each other “legitimate questions.”  

What songs, artists or genres of music are you currently listening to? 

We like to unwind with chill R&B, oldies, jazz and sometimes some High School Musical. 

This performance is presented as part of the 10x10 Art Series, an intriguing and innovative showcase of art forms, meticulously curated to satisfy the artistic curiosity of the Northwest Arkansas community. Crafted by our programming team, the 10x10 Arts Series invites everyone to venture into uncharted artistic territories. Embrace the opportunity to explore, take a leap of faith and try something new. After all, tickets are only $10. 

International Quartet Formed During the Pandemic Against All Odds

It seems unlikely that an international cello quartet would have come together during the height of the COVID pandemic, but against all odds, the Galvin Cello Quartet did. Their story is a testament to the power of teamwork that exceeds all expectations of traditional chamber music.  

Cellists Sihao He of China, Korean-American Sydney Lee, Chinese-American Haddon Kay and Luiz Fernando Venturelli of Brazil met as students at Northwestern University's Bienen School of Music in the studio of acclaimed pedagogue Hans Jørgen Jensen.  

““The Galvin Cello Quartet explores the limitless range of a cello ensemble by bringing together new works from diverse cultural backgrounds while seeking to establish the cello quartet as a core part of the classical music world.””

As part of a tight-knit cello studio at Bienen, the four friends wanted to channel their collective passion for music instilled in them by Jensen. But with pandemic restrictions in place, the school running virtually and Venturelli back home in Brazil, performing as a string quartet was not possible.  

Despite these challenges, the four cellists, each with their own personality and charisma and eager to explore the colors and timbres of the cello together, decided to enter the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition. With the deadline quickly approaching, Venturelli's return to the states came sooner than anticipated, and all quarantine guidelines and safety measures were taken. The following 12 days were filled with preparation, rehearsals and one final recording session of all the required repertoire before the quartet exploded onto the scene. 

The pandemic may have dampened and muted many concert stages, hopes and livelihoods for artists and musicians, but music has limitless possibilities to heal and restore. Galvin Cello Quartet captured the silver medal at the 2021 Fischoff Competition, followed shortly by winning the 2022 Victor Elmaleh Competition and joining the Concert Artists Guild roster.  

Since its illustrious debut, the quartet has continued to play together and prepare new repertoire for upcoming concerts. With their untamable desire to create, change and ultimately bring joy through music, He, Lee, Kay and Venturelli are more excited than ever to explore and expand the possibilities of a cello quartet. Through its music, the Galvin Cello Quartet hopes to celebrate and convey the values of friendship, creativity and resilience in an ever-changing world. 

You can experience the beauty and depth of this award-winning cello quartet for just $10 on Tuesday, Jan. 30 at 7 pm. This 10x10 Arts Series performance also includes a creative conversation with the artists following the show. 

Give Someone a Broadway Experience for the Holidays

You don’t have to go to New York City to see a Broadway show. Walton Arts Center brings the best touring Broadway shows to Northwest Arkansas. What could be a better gift than a Broadway theater experience?  

Gifting an experience is guaranteed to please even the pickiest of family members. According to Consumer Reports, “66% of people between the ages of 25 and 34 would rather receive an experience gift than a tangible item.” The Journal of Experimental Social Psychology also found that people derive a greater level of happiness from experiences than they do from material possessions, both when anticipating receiving them and after they have received them.  

Science Daily also reports that experiential gifts are more effective than material gifts at improving relationships from the recipient's perspective. Cindy Chan, an assistant professor in U of T Scarborough's Department of Management and the Rotman School of Management says, “the reason experiential gifts are more socially connecting is that they tend to be more emotionally evocative. An experiential gift elicits a strong emotional response when a recipient consumes it – like the excitement of a rock concert. 

If you are looking for the perfect shows to give as gifts this year, we have a few recommendations. 

Les Misérables is still the world’s most popular musical, and during the holiday season it can also be the most popular gift. Make a fan’s dreams come true or introduce someone on your list to Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s Tony Award®-winning musical, Les Misérables, at Walton Arts Center January 2-7.   

Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption – a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. This epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history. Les Misérables is the perfect opportunity to gift your loved one’s a once in a lifetime theater experience.  

Want to make sure they have an elevated theater experience? Add on a Walton Arts Center VIP Upgrade for $49 per person and step past the velvet rope into a private VIP room open pre-show and at intermission. Price includes two drinks, a dedicated bar, appetizers and a themed photo booth.  

Looking for a new Broadway musical? Jagged Little Pill is coming to Walton Arts Center Jan. 23 – 28 with eight performances and is guaranteed to make you feel what it’s like to be human again. It is inspired by the seminal rock album of seven-time Grammy® Award winner Alanis Morissette. 

Joy, love, heartache, strength, wisdom, catharsis, LIFE – everything we’ve been waiting to see in a Broadway show – is here in the exhilarating, fearless new musical. Ignited by Morissette’s groundbreaking lyrics and music – from beloved hits such as “You Oughta Know,” “Head Over Feet,” “Hand In My Pocket” and “Ironic”, to brand new songs written for the show. 

Jagged Little Pill is recommended for ages 14 and up. Please note: This production contains strong language, adult themes, drug use, and moments of sexual violence that some may find upsetting. 

Add a little extra holiday magic to someone’s holidays and add on a cocktail class before Jagged Little Pill. Mix things up before your show, our master mixologist will lead you through the steps to create two themed drinks, paired with light appetizers. Must be 21 or older to participate. 

With two amazing Broadway performances and add-ons to choose from, the ability to gift an experience is easier than ever at Walton Arts Center. Spice up your holiday gifting this year and find the perfect tickets for anyone on your list at www.waltonartscenter.org.  

The Heart Behind TINA – The Tina Turner Musical with Writer Katori Hall

Katori Hall, writer TINA – The Tina Turner Musical, shared with us more background on her process of writing the musical and all the heart and soul that she poured into it. Don’t miss your chance to experience this show in person when it comes to Walton Arts Center Dec. 12 – 17.  

“I started on Tina as a child. What I mean by that is that I am from Tennessee. Tina’s from Tennessee. My mother loved Tina Turner so much that she named my eldest sister after her. Her presence was always baked into the soundtrack of my own life – my mum would talk about her all the time, and her influence on being a woman in the South. 

Being asked to walk hand in hand with Tina in the process taught me that it wasn’t about what she said, it was about what she was hesitant to say. This was where the new part of the story was. When I interviewed Tina, we talked a lot not just about Ike, but also her life before Ike. She grew up in an abusive home. Often people point to Ike and say he’s the biggest villain in her life, but in all actuality, there have been a number of negative factors, including racism, sexism, classism as well as abusive individuals and environments, including the household in which she grew up. Tina has had to slay the biggest dragons that anyone can slay and yet Tina’s journey has been utterly inspirational. 

The musical had to bring the essence of a Tina Turner concert into a theater. It is a way to make sure that this icon and her energy never goes away – to make her immortal. My parents got to see Tina perform in person, but my generation has only seen her concerts in film footage. To see Tina live was a gift that is gone now, and so the musical is the best way to keep the theatricality of Tina’s own concerts, her life story and her influence alive. 

To see what this woman achieved in a life that others may have deemed non-important, to see this woman come from the middle of nowhere to being at a point where her impact will be felt for generations. You can slay domestic abuse, you can slay the dragon of racism, and  I want people to leave the theater feeling triumphant.

The show ends with a concert. There’s so much joy in having survived, and I want people to understand that no one can take your love and power from you. It’s inside yourself, and it can’t be taken. I’m so happy that we can showcase the essence of Tina as a resilient woman, in addition to Tina the performer. The music is kind of secondary in that respect. 

It’s the story of survival in the show that’s most important – the message that you can rise to your own personal mountaintop.” 

For this show you can add on a VIP experience! Step past the velvet rope into a private VIP room open pre-show and at intermission, with two drinks of choice, a dedicated bar, hors d’oeuvres, desserts and a themed photo booth. Add on this package for only $49 per person and experience TINA – The Tina Turner Musical the VIP way. 

Enjoy Winter Nights at Walton Arts Center

Winter Nights at Walton Arts Center is a returning holiday tradition for the whole family to enjoy. Starting Thursday, Nov. 30, the Bradberry Amphitheater & Rose Garden and Joy Pratt Markham Gallery will be decked with silver bells, frosty firs and snowy scenes and open to the public 6 pm - midnight on Thursday, Friday and Saturday through Friday, Dec. 22. Winter Nights is the family-friendly holiday drop-in event of the season. 

A limited number of domes with firepits and mobile ordering for groups of up to eight can be reserved for 1 hour and 15-minute time slot for $100. Reservations are available at 6 pm, 7:30 pm and 10:30 pm. Patrons can add-on a savory charcuterie board, Hershey’s s’mores package or 16-inch Gusano’s Chicago style pizza when they purchase their reservation. 

Walk-up outdoor seating on benches and in the amphitheater with heaters, as well as indoor seating are free and open to the public on a first-come first-served basis. Gather with your friends, family, neighbors and coworkers and enjoy the twinkling lights, beautiful silvery decorations, a cozy cup of cheer and take your seasonal selfies or use our photobooth, sponsored by Cox Communications, to capture a holiday card-worthy picture.  

There will also be nightly live music in Joy Pratt Markham Gallery for patrons. 

Warm up in Joy Pratt Markham Gallery, where guests will also have a chance to spread holiday happiness by writing a note of cheer to a patient or staff member who is spending their holiday season at Washington Regional Medical Center. Letters are sponsored by CDI Contractors and will be delivered to Washington Regional Medical Center in time for Christmas.  

More details including reservation times and pricing can be found online at waltonartscenter.org or by calling the box office at 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am-5 pm.  

Wishing You a Season Full of Walton Arts Center Performances

Gift the joy of a live performance this holiday season with tickets to a variety of shows at Walton Arts Center. There is guaranteed to be a show for everyone on your holiday gift list, from unique, artistic performances to live music and hilarious, cabaret-style comedy shows. We have created the following guide to make giving easy this year!

For the classical music fan: 

Galvin Cello Quartet is bringing an innovative musical performance to Walton Arts Center. The Galvin Cello Quartet is on a mission to establish the cello quartet as a core part of the classical music world. This diverse ensemble presents works from a variety of cultural backgrounds with a tonal beauty and astonishing timbral contrast. Don’t miss this award-winning international sensation when they make their debut at Walton Arts Center on Tuesday, Jan. 30 at 7 pm. Tickets are just $10 - it’s a great gift for teachers, neighbors or family. 

For the jokester: 

Experience our brand-new series, The Comedy Zone. Tammy Pescatelli kicks off the new year in a hilarious fashion.  After making it to NBC’s “Last Comic Standing,” Pescatelli has become known as one of the sharpest women in comedy. Experience Pescatelli’s sharp wit and iconic humor on Thursday, Jan. 11 at 7:30 pm. 

For the concert lover:

In their early days, Damn Tall Buildings didn’t rehearse – they busked. Now whether live or on record, the trio still radiates the energy of a crew of best friends playing bluegrass on the street. Anchoring that energy is their instrumental chops, strong songwriting and varied influences that stretch beyond bluegrass. Part of West Street Live, come see this electric performance on Thursday, Feb. 1 at 7:30 pm. 

For the Broadway fanatic: 

Jagged Little Pill will make you feel joy, love, heartache, strength, wisdom, catharsis and life. Everything you have been waiting to see in a Broadway show is here in this exhilarating, fearless new musical based on Alanis Morissette’s world-changing music. Come live, learn and remember what it is like to truly feel human at Jagged Little Pill with eight shows, Jan. 23 – 28. 

Don’t see the perfect ticket in this article? Look at our calendar to find a show and a ticket price that is just right for everyone on your gift list. Gift certificates are also available, totally customizable and valid for shows at both Walton Arts Center and the Walmart AMP. Don’t forget to reserve and pay for parking ahead of time too!  Tickets and gift certificates can be purchased by visiting waltonartscenter.org, by calling 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am – 5 pm or in-person at our box office weekdays 10 am – 2 pm. 

An Enchanting Holiday Performance

Kick off your holiday season with a daughter of Nashville royalty performing some of her favorite (and probably your favorite too) holiday songs. Lorrie Morgan’s Enchanted Christmas! features a variety of classic festive tunes, carols along with some of her own top hits and stories from her iconic career.  Daughter of Country Music Hall of Fame member and former member of the Grand Ole Opry, George Morgan, Lorrie has developed a following all her own and is known as one of the most eloquently emotive country vocalists today.  

Morgan’s journey in the music industry began at a young age when she made her Opry debut at 13 and later became the youngest member to be inducted into the Grand Ole Opry at only 24 years old. Morgan’s music follows in the footsteps of artists like Reba McEntire and pays homage to legends like Tammy Wynette through her music and style. She is at once tender and soulful, and the next minute, a modern-day torch singer, putting her special vocal touch on familiar favorites.  

Over the years, she navigated the ups and downs of the industry, cementing her legacy as a resilient country artist with hits and collaborations spanning several decades. Morgan eventually took over her father’s band after his passing. She enjoyed a string of hits between 1989 and 1997, including chart-toppers like “Five Minutes,” “What Part of No” and “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength.” After her chart success waned in the 2000s, Morgan continued her career on independent labels. 

“Where I am in my life right now, I’m not afraid to express what I feel, or what I don’t feel,” Morgan said when asked about her recent album. “I’m not afraid to express my views on anything, especially on being a woman. I have been a daughter, a bride, a mother, a divorcee, a widow, a single mother, a breadwinner and, ultimately, a survivor. In many ways, I am a living, breathing country song, and I know what I sing.” 

Come experience the holiday magic of Lorrie Morgan’s Enchanted Christmas at Walton Arts Center on Friday, Dec. 1 at 8 pm. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased by visiting waltonartscenter.org, by calling 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am until 5 pm or in-person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm. 

Wondrous Winter Performances

Why just watch a holiday movie at home when you could enjoy the most festive, live performances at Walton Arts Center this holiday season? Walton Arts Center has shows that are guaranteed to bring the holly-jolly spirit to anyone.  

Welcome the holidays with a cheerful, family-friendly performance that all ages can enjoy. Lorrie Morgan is bringing her Enchanted Christmas Tour to Northwest Arkansas on Friday, Dec. 1 at 8 pm. Drawing upon childhood memories of her father performing at the Grand Ole Opry during Christmastime, Morgan’s old-fashioned holiday performance will feature classic holiday tunes and carols. Tickets start at $35. 

Looking for more family-friendly holiday shows? The Snowman: A Family Concert and The Polar Express are both guaranteed to be fun for the whole family. Join us for a special screening of The Snowman, based on Raymond Brigg’s classic children’s book, with the original score performed live by SoNA. This family concert is on Sunday, Dec. 10 at 2 pm and tickets are $10. The Polar Express is a free film screening of the holiday classic on the big screen, but reservations are required! Reservations will be open on Dec. 1. The film screening is on Friday, Dec. 22 at 7 pm and it's a PJ-friendly performance! 

If a non-traditional holiday show is more to your liking the Squirrel Nut Zippers will transport you into a world where Christmas lights meet the allure of a speakeasy. Led by extraordinarily creative Jimbo Mathus, the group infuses their performances with 1920s jazz, klezmer and vaudeville influences, resulting in a truly original, holly-jolly, Southern-roots sound. Grab your kettle corn, your favorite holiday sweater and join us for the festivities on Tuesday, Dec. 19 at 7 pm. Tickets start at $25.   

¡Feliz Navidad! You are invited to a holiday show that blends Mexican and American Christmas favorites, all performed by Latin Grammy®-nominated Mariachi Herencia de México. The chart-topping group uses their uniquely jubilant style to reimagine holiday hits such as “It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” “Winter Wonderland” and many more! Taking the stage on Thursday, Dec. 21 at 7 pm, this is a holiday celebration the whole family will adore, and tickets are just $10. 

Kick off your merry and bright holiday season with us at a fun and festive show. Tickets to all shows are available now at waltonartscenter.org, by calling 479.443.5600 or by visiting the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm. 

A Comedy Gold Mine That Never Runs Dry

Let’s do a deep dive into the political comedy group known as DC’s Capitol Fools! Capitol Fools actually started as The Capitol Steps in 1981 by a handful of US Senate staffers in Illinois Senator Charles Percy’s office. The original goal of the group was to provide entertainment for their office holiday party and to poke some fun at all the people who employed them.  

The group stuck gold in the comedy world and began successfully touring the nation chronicling the humor found in current events and politics through clever song parodies in their performances. Unfortunately, in 2021, the Capitol Steps shut down due to the coronavirus pandemic. But an intrepid group of cast members (Jack Rowles, Steps co-writer Mark Eaton and Michael Pauken) worked together to set the stage for the next iteration of the comedy troupe, the Capitol Fools. The group is back on tour and bringing jokes that are fresher and crispier than ever!  

Although the history of this group is interesting, we wanted to know a bit more about the behind-the-humor writing process and how this group executes its jokes, so we picked Jack Rowles’s brain to answer these questions! Rowles shared some insights on why he is part of this comedy group, how the jokes are chosen and created and if jokes are ever changed based on current events. 

Rowles’ love of comedy stems from the idea that laughter is the best medicine, and in a world where current events create barriers between people, laughter soothes the soul and brings people back together.  

“There is truly nothing better than sitting in a room with people who have a variety of political views but they are all able to share laughter and make fun of themselves as well as people on the other side of the aisle,” Rowles said 

When asked about how topics are chosen for jokes, Rowles touched on the fact that simply making fun of politicians on both sides of the political sphere creates the funniest, most relatable content.  

“As the news changes, the show content changes to match the current political events,” Rowles said. “We update every single performance to reflect the current state of politics. Our political system is the gift that keeps on giving, if you are the Capitol Fool!”  

The Capitol Fools are never short on jokes and every performance you go to will be a different experience. Don’t miss seeing them when they stop for one night only, Thusday, Oct. 26, at Walton Arts Center!

Honoring Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month was created to celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. 

As the nation reflects on Hispanic Heritage Month, we want to spotlight an amazing Hispanic musical group that you can see at Walton Arts Center this December. The historic tradition of mariachi music has origin in cities such as Guadalajara and Mexico City. As the ever-evolving genre's influence spread, it reached Chicago and birthed the Mariachi Herencia de México.  

Cesar Maldonado had a passion for Hispanic culture, community and music so he founded Mariachi Heritage Foundation in 2013. The foundation seeks to create opportunities for individuals and communities to celebrate, share and sustain the vitality of Mexico’s mariachi music tradition. Their work promotes the importance of cultural heritage for strengthening ethnic identity and community. The Mariachi Heritage Foundation implements mariachi music education programs in Chicago Public Schools with predominantly low-income Latino students.  

What started as a school program serving about 2,100 students and eight schools across Chicago, helped to spread an appreciation and knowledge of mariachi. A year and half into the program, the foundation decided to hold an audition for a new mariachi band. The group accepted 90 students and about 20 of those were placed at the advanced performance level, and Mariachi Herencia de México was born. They began performing in multiple venues across the Chicago area and then began touring.  

The energetic, virtuosic Latin Grammy®-nominated group now has multiple chart-topping albums and has performed across North America. Nuestra Herencia, their 2017 debut album, topped the Latin streaming charts. 2018's Herencia de la Tierra Mía was produced by celebrated industry veteran Javier Limón and charted atop all major streaming services. 2019's Esencia topped industry charts, while a second volume, issued in 2020 performed similarly. In 2022, Herederos appeared as the group were performing a wildly successful North American tour.  

Mariachi Herencia de México is performing A Very Mariachi Christmas on Thursday, Dec. 21 at 7 pm and tickets are only $10! Experience this energetic group blend Mexican and American Christmas songs favorites and reimagined holiday hits all night long.  

Did you know: 

  • Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period. The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.  

  • In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively. Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, October 12, also falls within this 30-day period. 

Experience More Hispanic Culture This Month 

  • Take a virtual tour of both La Casa Azul and the Smithsonian’s Museum of the American Latino. La Casa Azul is Mexican artist Frida Kahlo’s former home, and the name translates to blue house. It is now a museum dedicated to her work and life. The Smithsonian’s Museum of the American Latino shines a light on the large legacy of U.S. Latinos and Latinas. 

  • View and honor art by Hispanic artists including Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dali, Diego Velazquez and Francisco Goya.  

  • Enjoy books written by Hispanic authors such as Saraciea Fennell, Claire Jiménez and Cristina García. 

Honoring One of Arkansas' Own: Johnny Cash Like You've Never Seen Before

Johnny Cash may be best known for his immense musical talent and impact on the country music genre, but you may not know that he got his start right here in Arkansas! Born in Kingsland, Ark., a small town in south central Arkansas. That small-town boy now known as the “Man in Black” is back in the spotlight again thanks to two new tributes, and one of those is launching from Walton Arts Center.

The state of Arkansas recently memorialized the famous Kingsland native by creating an eight-foot statue of Cash that will be placed in the U.S. Capitol’s National Statuary Hall Collection. This is quite rare because the collection tends to honor political and historic figures, not musicians. Little Rock artist, Kevin Kresse created the 1,200-pound bronze statue of Cash. After doing extensive research and consulting family members, Kresse chose to highlight Cash in his early ‘70s era, which many people consider to be his most groundbreaking and iconic. Legislators ultimately chose Cash because his music has been so influential to the world.  

The artist is finalizing the base that the statue will be placed on which will include inscribed quotes and song lyrics, including lines from Cash and the other notable sayings selected by members of the Cash family. 

While viewers in Washington D.C. will get to enjoy the new statue, audiences here will get to see Cash back on stage again thanks to a new production and national tour launching from Walton Arts Center. JOHNNY CASH - The Official Concert Experience uses songs, stories and video of Johnny from episodes of  “The Johnny Cash TV Show” projected on a large screen above the stage. Accompanied by a live band and singers joining him in perfect sync will blur the lines between a recorded and a live performance.  

The performance will showcase iconic performances from the television show while also highlighting the spirit of the legend by revisiting some of his memorable words and anecdotes. Cash will once again perform some of his biggest hits, including “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Ring of Fire,” and “I Walk the Line,” and share stories of people he met along the way whose causes he championed – the working man from all walks of life. Plus, onstage male and female singers will also perform their own takes on Cash hits. The music never stops at this concert event. The show will also feature on-screen narration by Cash’s only son, John Carter Cash. 

Debbie Horton is also name you might recognize or associate with Cash – she was the only female lead guitar player to perform with Cash. Now she is the guitarist touring with the Official Concert Experience! Horton was inspired by Cash; she was the president of his fan club in Virginia and soon became an accomplished guitar player. At his show in Baltimore, Cash surprised Horton and the rest of the audience by bringing her up on stage to play with him. Horton and Cash hit it off and had a unique friendship that evolved over several decades before Cash passed.  

You won’t want to miss this opportunity to honor one of our very own. Regular tickets are $35-69 and can be purchased in-person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm, by calling 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am until 5 pm or by visiting waltonartscenter.org.

America's Got Talent Semi-Finalist Coming to The Comedy Zone

If you are looking for big laughs from top-notch comedians in an intimate, club-like setting, then get your tickets for the debut season of The Comedy Zone at Walton Arts Center. We’ve teamed up with The Comedy Zone, the most trusted name in stand-up comedy, to bring you six of the country’s hottest comedians who have been featured on Comedy Central, HBO Comedy, Netflix, Hulu, BET, Just for Laughs, Dry Bar, Sirius XM and more.   

These shows are in the 240-capacity Starr Theater with cabaret and tiered seating to get you up close to the funny! Greg Morton is ready to showcase his hilarious voice acting and impressions on Thursday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 pm. 

You probably already know and love Morton. He dazzled judges on season 14 of “America’s Got Talent” and Howie Mandel said, “I can’t believe there isn’t a banner with your name on it in Vegas!” Morton’s accomplishments don’t stop there, he has opened for Celine Dion, Harry Connick Jr. and Luther Vandross while also appearing on “Just for Laughs,” “Comedy Central’s Premium Blend,” Comics Unleashed” and has his own comedy special on Dry Bar.  

Morton is known as the man of many voices. He can impersonate almost any celebrity, character or person. He calls his show a one-man variety show, as he can seamlessly transition between impersonations. Morton says he draws his inspiration from cartoons and the characters in the cartoons. When he was a child, he would draw his own cartoon characters and give them each a unique sounding voice. He also worked in the cartoon industry as an animator which is what ultimately led him to voice acting for over 20 animated cartoons. Morton now calls himself a human cartoon, saying he finds live performances very compelling. 

It's his wit that launched his stand-up comedy career. Morton shared that to create a witty comedy piece, he tries to think like a musician and picks each line and voice impression carefully. Morton also explained that he must pick a backing track to play during his performance, the tone and mood of the music is extremely important for the delivery of Morton’s jokes to be on par. Morton claims that each character line is like a lyric, they have to complement each other without sounding too similar. 

Try out Walton Arts Center’s newest series, The Comedy Zone, for a fun date night or night out with friends! If you can’t see Greg Morton on Thursday, Dec. 7 don’t forget, there are three additional comedians performing this season. Tickets start at just $21, so grab yours now!