A Sneak Peak of Cirque du Soleil Songblazers

Cirque du Soleil hosted an exclusive media preview during CMA Fest last week, offering a first look at their highly anticipated country-themed show, Songblazers.

Northwest Arkansas audiences can experience Songblazers in person when it comes to Walton Arts Center Nov. 27 - Dec. 1 for eight performances.

At the exclusive preview on June 5, journalists and photographers were treated to a sneak peek of the electrifying Honky Tony scene from the show. Attendees were captivated by the first look with many commentating that Songblazers successfully captured the true essence of a Honky Tonk, but with the added Cirque du Soleil flare.

The preview event included iconic country songs, “Achy Breaky Heart” by Billy Ray Cyrus, “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” by Shania Twain, “Red Solo Cup” by Toby Keith and an original song crafted specifically for Songblazers. The original piece, titled “Carnival Heart,” was penned by the grandson of country legend Hank Williams, Sam Williams along with songwriters PJ Harding and Ned Houston. “Carnival Heart” is an evocative melody inspired by themes of self-discovery, friendship and hope.

Songblazers made its first public debut in front of a live audience on June 7 at Skydeck on Broadway. As part of the UMG Nashville Takeover at Skydeck for the 2024 CMA Fest, Williams performed “Carnival Heart.” Williams also introduced a special performance by Songblazers that showcased an energetic bartender juggling red solo cups to Toby Keith’s hit single, “Red Solo Cup.”

Cirque du Soleil, in collaboration with Universal Music Group Nashville, is thrilled to present Songblazers. Written and directed by Amy Tinkham, this groundbreaking theatrical production pays homage to both legendary and contemporary trailblazers of country music. Songblazers charts the journey of two main characters as they strive for recognition in the country music scene, offering audiences an unforgettable experience filled with heart and determination. 

Drawing inspiration from the rich legacy of country music, Songblazers celebrates the genre's historical icons while embracing the vibrant talents of today's artists. Audiences can expect to be enthralled by stunning acrobatics, awe-inspiring aerial acts and feats of extraordinary strength, all set to the backdrop of beloved country tunes. 

Tickets for Songblazers at Walton Arts Center are $52-93 and are available now at 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.  

Show Dates and Times 

Wednesday, Nov. 27 at 7 pm 

Friday, Nov. 29 at 3 and 7 pm 

Saturday, Nov. 30 at 11:30 am, 3:30 and 7:30 pm 

Sunday, Dec. 1 at 2 and 6 pm 

Walton Arts Center Presents at Kennedy Center Education Conference

Dr. Samantha Stinson, school engagement manager at Walton Arts Center, recently traveled to the Partners in Education Conference at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and led an educational workshop with some NWA dancers.  

During the conference, Stinson and three local dancers presented a workshop called Dancing Through Black American History. The workshop was based on a piece that the dancers helped create and perform in 2023 called Reclaiming Our Roots.

This unique project began in 2022 with a contract between Walton Arts Center and CONTRA TIEMPO, a Los Angeles-based activist dance theater company. With the help of NWA Movement Hub, Walton Arts Center sent four professional performers to FUTURO spring workshop, hosted by CONTRA TIEMPO in Los Angeles. This group of Arkansas performers then morphed into the Rooted Movement Collective, the first to participate in Walton Art Center’s Performing Arts Exchange. During Black History Month, Rooted Movement Collective brought their Reclaiming Our Roots tour to 600 local middle and high school students.  

Walton Arts Center has been providing free arts integrative curriculum in schools since it was founded in 1992. The Kennedy Center’s Partners in Education Program helps arts organizations throughout the nation develop or expand educational partnerships with their local school systems to provide professional learning in the arts for teachers. 

Stinson also did congressional visits while in DC, meeting with the chief of staff for Senators Tom Cotton and John Boozeman as well as the legislative assistant to Representative Steve Womack. 

The visits are an annual opportunity to brief the legislators on Walton Arts Center’s education initiatives, to share results and data with them and to ask for their support where it is needed. 

Adult Summer Camp Like No Other at Art of Wine

Walton Arts Center’s Art of Wine fundraiser will make you feel like you are enjoying the taste of Napa Valley right here in Northwest Arkansas. This event is one of the South’s premier wine-tasting events on Friday, July 12 at 8 pm. Even after 22 years, Arts of Wine continues to be a favorite of both Arkansans and visitors from across the country. Enjoy a grown-ups only night out, ages 21+, while also supporting arts education!

“This year, our annual Art of Wine fundraiser takes inspiration from the magic of summer camp,” explained Elyse Partee, development product specialist for Walton Arts Center. Guests can explore hundreds of wines and beverages – plus sample bites from local restaurants – as they’re immersed in the nostalgia of a camp-inspired night out, for grown-ups. 

General admission tickets give guests a great camp-themed experience with hundreds of wines and beverages – plus sample bites from local restaurants – for sampling throughout the night. 

“True wine aficionados don’t want to miss out on the Reserve Room,” Partee told us. “Guests who purchase Reserve Room tickets have exclusive access to an intimate space with premium wines and restaurants in addition to the rest of the event.”  

New this year is the All-Access Package – perfect for those who want an exclusive group experience. This package gives up to 16 guests early entry to the event at 7:30 pm, full event access including the Reserve Room and a private backstage lounge exclusively for the group with dedicated bar service throughout the night, light hors d’oeuvres and more. A limited number of All-Access Packages are available at $5,000 each.  

Additionally, all guests have a fun opportunity to help Walton Arts Center reach its fundraising goals when they visit one of the three bonus stations inspired by favorite hands-on camp activities, including friendship bracelets, screen-printing and wood engraving. Guests who donate to Walton Arts Center’s Pack the WAC initiative at the event can make and take these keepsakes! Donations at Art of Wine support programming that expands access to the arts in Northwest Arkansas.  

“As a non-profit organization, donations ensure over 25,000 students and educators experience live performing arts annually, many for the first time, at no cost,” Partee explained when asked about the importance of Pack the WAC initiative. “There are 1,200 seats in Baum Walker Hall, Walton Arts Center’s main performance space and each $15 donation represents one student in our community in a seat for a Classroom Series performance, so let’s “Pack the WAC!”  

Guests will love the variety of wines and other beverages offered at the event this year. Along with the nostalgic and immersive theme, Art of Wine is the summer event you do not want to miss. Tickets are available for purchase at 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. 

A Variety of Artosphere Activities Offered in Fayetteville 

Artosphere Festival celebrates art, music and nature with exciting performances, activities and events that the whole family can enjoy throughout May. Enjoy a multitude of Artosphere events located right here in Fayetteville! 

We have three events that are perfect for the whole family, starting with Trout Fishing in American on Tuesday, May 7 at 6:30 pm. An Artosphere favorite event, Grammy®-nominated Trout Fishing in America, Ozark natives Keith Grimwood and Ezra Idlet return to Northwest Arkansas to perform the music that has captured the hearts and imaginations of audiences of all ages for more than four decades. Join us for a free family-friendly concert at the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. Next up is Trail Mix, Artosphere’s signature event that features live art, music and activities for kids and families, on Friday, May 10 at 5 – 7 pm. The J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Gathering Glade at the Fayetteville Public Library and the Lower Ramble are the home of Trail Mix this year, exploring the convergence of art and nature in the forest canopy and pathways through Tanglewood Creek and Fay Jones Woods. Trail Mix is a free event that features Ragtaggle, Backyard Bugs, March to August and Harpist Devanee Williams, chalk artist Amber Perrodin and a special art activity led by Shannon Green. 

On Saturday, May 11 at 8 pm, you can enjoy a curated screening by Fayetteville Film Fest. This screening features several short films by independent creators based on nature, enriching our understanding of the planet and sparking conversations about sustainability.  Tickets are $15. 

The Artosphere Festival Orchestra will perform for the first time this season on Tuesday, May 14 at 7 pm with American Soundscapes. The 90-member Artosphere Festival Orchestra will converge in Northwest Arkansas for its twelfth season. Under the baton of internationally acclaimed Maestro Corrado Rovaris, the AFO features premier musicians from major symphonies, prestigious ensembles and distinguished programs across the globe performing both classic and new works by leading composers. Don’t miss your chance to see this world-class orchestra for their final performances. Tickets are $10. 

A special thank you to our Friends of Artosphere for their additional support. Artosphere Festival is sponsored by Walmart. Premier Artosphere Festival support is provided by Kelly & Marti Sudduth. Artosphere Festival Orchestra Principal support for Maestro Corrado Rovaris and Dover Quartet is provided by Reed and Mary Ann Greenwood. Artosphere Festival Orchestra Show Underwriters are Greg & Hannah Lee and Peter B. Lane & Barbara Putman. Artosphere Festival is made possible by Tyson Foods and the generosity of all our Friends of Artosphere.  

With over 30 events in communities across Northwest Arkansas, Artosphere has something for everyone. Check out our website for a full listing of events including yoga sessions, shows and workshops for kids, music in the outdoors and so much more.   

Tickets to these and other Artosphere performances and events 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.     

 

Ticketed Performances   

Dover Quartet  

7 pm | Saturday, May 11 | St. Paul’s Episcopal Church   

Tickets: $15  

  

Compagnia TPO’s ERBA – A Forest in the City  

6:30 pm | Tuesday, May 14 and Wednesday, May 15 | Walton Arts Center  

Tickets: $10  

  

Artosphere Festival Orchestra  

Verdi’s Requiem  

Corrado Rovaris, Musical Director   

8 pm | Sunday, May 18 | Walton Arts Center  

Tickets: $15-50  

  

360 ALLSTARS  

7 pm | Tuesday, May 21 | Walton Arts Center  

Tickets: $10  

   
Free Events and Performances    

Recycled Bead Flowers Workshop  

2 pm | Saturday, May 11 | Fayetteville Public Library Art & Movement Room  

  

Paper Mums Workshop  

4:30 pm | Thursday, May 16 | Fayetteville Public Library Teen Project Room  

  

Nature Sensory Play  

9:30 am | Friday, May 17 | Fayetteville Public Library Youth Craft Room  

  

Jazz on the Mountain featuring Backbeat Jazz  

6 pm | Thursday, May 23 | Mount Sequoyah, Fayetteville  

Free but ticketed event  

 

Partner and Artosphere-sponsored Events  

First Thursday  

Sponsored by Artosphere  

5:30-9 pm | Thursday, May 2 | Downtown Fayetteville Square  

Free  

Arkansas Pottery Festival  

May 3-5 | Community Creative Center, Fayetteville  

Free 

  

Railyard Live presents The Cate Brothers & The Nace Brothers   

Sponsored by Artosphere  

7 pm | Friday, May 3 | Butterfield Stage, Downtown Rogers  

Tickets: Free-$30 available at railyardlive.com  

  

Square 2 Square Starting Line featuring The Juice  

Sponsored by Artosphere  

7-9:30 am | Saturday, May 4 | Walker Park, Fayetteville  

Square 2 Square registration is $35 for adults 14 and up / $20 for youth 13 and under  

Register at Fayetteville-ar.gov  

  

Yoga on the Glade  

Sponsored by Artosphere  

6 pm | Monday, May 6 | Fayetteville Public Library  

Free  

    

Artosphere presents Mountain Street Stage: Aaron Smith with Still on the Hill and Friends  

Sponsored by Artosphere   

2 pm | Sunday, May 12 | Fayetteville Public Library  

Free  

  

Artosphere Main Stage at Strawberry Festival  

noon-6 pm | Sunday, May 19 | Downtown Fayetteville Square  

Free 

Artosphere Brings the Indie Film Festival

Films, no matter their plot, have the power to create change across communities, elicit emotions and start conversations. Fayetteville Film Festival and Walton Arts Center are thrilled to highlight these incredible films focused on sustainability and our environment on Saturday, May 11, at 8 pm.   

This mini-film festival, presented as part of Artosphere, showcases filmmakers and honors their stories and artistic expression. This is one of four collaborative film showcases between the two arts organizations this season.  

This screening features several short films by independent creators based on nature, enriching our understanding of the planet and sparking conversations about sustainability. Learn more about each film here: 

Directed by Ethan Edwards, Joan and the Rolling Stone follows a young woman who finds answers to her own grief when she embarks on a journey with a talking bowling ball. This film was screened at the Fayetteville Film Fest and the New York Shorts International Film Festival. Edwards got his inspiration for the film from reading lots of Sam Shepard one-acts. He felt the absurdity of the plays helped get him into a headspace where a talking bowling ball became a plausible storyline. When asked what he wanted viewers to take away from his film, Edwards said, “life is continually interesting.”   

Set in 1984, Radio Telescope, a former NASA scientist and his young son make a discovery in a make-shift laboratory located in their garage. The inspiration for Radio Telescope came from director Tyler Beard’s love of sci-fi mystery movies that he grew up watching. Beard also knew he wanted to create a film based in the 1980s, since it was something different than his other films. Ultimately, Beard hopes audiences can grab a bag of popcorn and just enjoy the film. 

The Countryman tells the story of bitterness that threatens to destroy a small farming community until a stranger arrives with a curious proposition. The film is set during the great depression and is a fantasy, drama style. Director Andy Kastelic is best known for creating iconic films such as The Misanthrope, St Augustine, Torchlight and Typhoon. He is hailed as an independent visionary and a brilliant filmmaker in the industry. 

Directed by Shayan Naghibi, The Last Snow shows how everything can disappear like the fall of the last snowflake. Naghibi is 22 years old and has directed multiple short animation films. Naghibi explained that The Last Snow is his first experimental film, and it has met with critical acclaim. He has won two awards for the film.  

Green Eyes, directed by Joe Ramos, is an exploration of the “what ifs” that appear in an ending relationship. Ramos can easily be described as a wholesome, adventurous and imaginative filmmaker. He loves to highlight interpersonal storytelling in his work as well as challenging both visuals and themeswith a fresh perspective. 

In The Perfect Day, Charlie Hoover, an aspiring ad man living in his van, eagerly answers a job posting to videotape Linda Lindell’s online life coaching series. However, the gig quickly evolves into indoctrination to Linda’s peculiar methodology as the two form an unlikely bond in pursuit of completing the ‘perfect day.’ This narrative short film is directed by Virgile Beddok, Daniel Breithaupt and Jonathan Frey, and the film has enjoyed a successful festival run including a screening at the Houston Comedy Film Festival in 2023.  

Mermagic, directed by Brian Du, is the story of Lucy who is granted three wishes by Marina the Magic Mermaid. The catch is, things don’t quite go according to plan. Du is originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma, and he is an award-winning screenwriter and filmmaker. He loves to create unique stories that pursue Asian American and Pacific Islander representation and diversity and inclusion. Du has won two awards for this film. 

The world has gone quiet, Three Ninety Five, directed by Nicholas Thurkettle, is about a nameless traveler who has no home, no memory and is searching for fellow survivors along a remote highway. When asked to describe his film in one sentence, Thurkettle said, “a nameless wanderer searches for fellow survivors in a world gone quiet.” Thurkettle shot his film near and along the actual U.S. Highway 395 in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. 

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.  

The last showcase for the season is LGBTQIA+ Filmmakers at 8 pm on Thursday, June 13. 

Bentonville is Full of Artosphere Activities

Artosphere Festival celebrates art, music and nature with exciting performances, activities and events that the whole family can enjoy throughout May. You can join the Artosphere fun in Bentonville at these events.   

All month long you can enjoy Tunes on the Trail, a completely free opportunity to combine music, movement and nature. Enjoy a curated playlist featuring some of the Artosphere Festival Orchestra’s most beloved performances from the past 11 seasons as you use the trails around the Crystal Bridges Musuem of American Art and on other trails throughout Northwest Arkansas. Just scan the QR code on the signage placed at each trailhead. Click here to learn more about Tunes on the Trails.

Artosphere events kick off with First Friday, a monthly festival series located in downtown Bentonville featuring live music, food trucks, multiple family-friendly activities and local vendors. The free community event welcomes all and is produced by the non-profit Downtown Bentonville Incorporated. This month’s theme is “Outdoor Adventure,” and you’ll be able to hear Artosphere artist Thanks for Nothing perform live music on the main stage. This event is free and open to the public, no registration is required. 

Next up is the perfect event for the whole family, Scott Family Amazeum’s Priceless Nights featuring Papa Rap on Wednesday, May 8. Time to play and explore for kids and adults is priceless, and that’s what you’ll get at this free community event. Returning Artosphere artist Papa Rap will host a drop-in drum circle on the outdoor PlayScape. Indoors, there will be Artosphere-themed crafts and engagements, helping little ones make connections between nature, music and creativity. This event is free to attend. 

A returning Artosphere favorite, the Grammy®-nominated Dover Quartet will present an evening of exquisite entertainment at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on Saturday, May 11. Named one of the greatest string quartets of this century by the BBC, this immaculate ensemble will perform Mozart’s String Quartet in E-Flat major, K. 428, Dmitri Shostakovich’s Quartet No. 9 in E-flat major, Op. 117 and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Quartet No. 1 in D major, Op. 11. Tickets are $15. 

To close out this year’s Artosphere Festival and to complete their last season on a high note, Artosphere Festival Orchestra will perform their signature Live from Crystal Bridges: Mozart in the Museum on Wednesday, May 22. The program for this third and final performance of AFO includes two of the orchestra’s favorite works which will bookend the orchestra’s debut performance of a Mozart piano concerto. Piano Concerto No. 20 in D minor will feature pianist Jaeden Izik-Dzurko, a student of the first AFO’s piano soloist, Benedetto Lupo. The young prodigy will bring us full circle, helping celebrate great performances and incredible musical relationships. Tickets are $54.  

With over 30 events in communities across Northwest Arkansas, Artosphere has something for everyone. Check out our website for a full listing of events including yoga sessions, shows and workshops for kids, music in the outdoors and so much more.   

Tickets to these and other Artosphere performances and events 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. 

A special thank you to our Friends of Artosphere for their additional support. Artosphere Festival is sponsored by Walmart. Premier Artosphere Festival support is provided by Kelly & Marti Sudduth. Artosphere Festival Orchestra Principal support for Maestro Corrado Rovaris and Dover Quartet is provided by Reed and Mary Ann Greenwood. Artosphere Festival Orchestra Show Underwriters are Greg & Hannah Lee and Peter B. Lane & Barbara Putman. Artosphere Festival is made possible by Tyson Foods and the generosity of all our Friends of Artosphere.  

Celebrate Artosphere in Rogers

Artosphere Festival celebrates art, music and nature with exciting performances, activities and events that the whole family can enjoy throughout May. You can join the Artosphere fun in Rogers at these events.  

The festival kicks off with three Artosphere-sponsored live music shows in downtown Rogers.  

First up is Railyard Live with The Cate Brothers and The Nace Brothers performing on the Butterfield Stage in downtown Rogers on Friday, May 3 at 7 pm. Fayetteville natives and Northwest Arkansas favorites, Earl and Ernie Cate have been performing their unique brand of country soul music since the mid-1960s.  

They will be joined by the Nace Brothers, known for high-quality performances with brilliant songwriting, expressive vocals, soaring guitar and a rock-solid rhythm section combining for entertainment at its best.   

Next local favorites La Fiesta con Grupo del 4 & Emmanuel Cortes come together for a highly anticipated collaboration joined by electrifying opening act Little Yei, known for his infectious Spanish R&B and Reggaeton, and special guest DJ Alfaro. The show is Saturday, May 4 at 7 pm on the Butterfield Stage. This promises to be a fusion extravaganza of regional Mexican and Hispanic party music, geared towards our vibrant young audience.  

Tickets for these events range from free to $30 and are available at railyardlive.com.  

 

For singer-songwriter fans, we have just the event for you! Held at the beautiful, recently renovated Victory Theater in Rogers at 7:30 pm Monday, May 6, Bruce Cockburn performs songs from his illustrious 40-year career. This Canadian musical legend has been capturing in song the essence of human experience – earning high praise as an exceptional songwriter and a revered guitarist. Tickets are $29.50-59.50 and can be purchased at thevictorytheater.com  

 

Artosphere is all about sustainability and nature, and you can’t get more naturally sustainable than falconry. As the largest outdoor concert venue in the state, the Walmart AMP is attractive to birds for shelter and roosting – but that can quickly become messy. Rather than taking invasive steps to remove the birds, the venue participates in sustainable and eco-friendly falconry-based bird abatement with master falconer Jordan Jones. Groups of 30-40 people will be able to tour the Walmart AMP on Sunday, May 19 at 11 am and 11:30 am and watch the fascinating natural process as trained raptors patrol the surrounding area, intimidating nuisance birds and discouraging them from roosting on the premises. Registration is required and will be available on our website May 6. 

With over 30 events in communities across Northwest Arkansas, Artosphere has something for everyone. Check out our website for a full listing of events including yoga sessions, shows and workshops for kids, music in the outdoors and so much more.  

Artosphere Festival is sponsored by Walmart. Premier Artosphere Festival support is provided by Kelly & Marti Sudduth. Artosphere Festival Orchestra Principle Support for Maestro Corrado Rovaris and Dover Quartet is provided by Reed and MaryAnn Greenwood. Artosphere Festival Orchestra Show Underwriters are Greg & Hannah Lee and Peter B. Lane & Barbara Putman. Artosphere Festival is made possible by Tyson Foods and the generosity of all our Friends of Artosphere. 

Exploring NYC: Art and Sightseeing Trip for Friends of Walton Arts Center

This March, a group of 27 Walton Arts Center patrons and staff members took on the bustling streets of the Big Apple for a whirlwind week of performances, behind-the-scenes sightseeing and unique dining experiences. 

The group attended six of the hottest musicals on Broadway, including the 2023 Tony® award-winning Kimberly Akimbo and brand-new shows Back to the Future: The Musical and Water for Elephants. Guests also enjoyed the beloved Met Opera, New York Philharmonic and New York Pops. 

Each day, the group explored iconic New York City landmarks, including Grand Central Station, Tenement Museum, Museum at Eldridge Street and The Morgan Library & Museum. Guests stepped into the studio with working artists and shared a gourmet dinner and jazz showcase in the home of world-renowned musicians Amina Figarova and Bart Platteau. 

"This annual travel opportunity is tailor-made for both seasoned and first-time New York City visitors involved in our Friends annual giving program,” says Becky Brink, vice president of development. “It’s not just about the destinations, it’s about forging connections with fellow arts enthusiasts who share a passion for enriching our community in Northwest Arkansas.” 

To become a Friend of Walton Arts Center or receive information about the 2025 trip, call 479-974-1506.

Volunteers Building Community Beyond the Theater

There’s an age-old saying in theater: “the show must go on.” We say something similar about our volunteer team: the show can’t go on without them! Our dedicated corps of volunteers are involved in every aspect of the work at Walton Arts Center—helping in the administrative office, box office, the Friends lounge, ushering in the hall and more. The volunteers say that a major perk of volunteering at Walton Arts Center is that it is so much fun!  

Volunteering isn’t all work and no play. There is an incredible sense of community that is established inside and outside of the performance hall, and when asked what they enjoy most about being a volunteer, most will mention friendships with staff, other volunteers and patrons. The volunteer team is a wonderful place to meet other service-minded individuals.  

As a thank you for our volunteers, we dedicate the whole month of April to Volunteer Appreciation Month and host an annual volunteer appreciation night, complete with a party and awards. The fun doesn’t stop there. Just like with volunteering, social activities occur at a variety of times so that everyone can join in and share their skills. We have morning coffee chats, afternoon potlucks, and movie and trivia nights. Our volunteer social outings also take advantage of all our local community has to offer like Lights of the Ozarks, retro arcades, downtown concert nights, and nature hikes. 

To learn more or become a volunteer, please visit waltonartscenter.org/volunteer 

10 Questions with 10x10 performers, George Hinchcliffe's Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

There are no drums, pianos, backing tracks or banjos. No pitch shifters or electronic trickery. Only an astonishing revelation of the richness of sound afforded by seven ukuleles and singing. Experience George Hinchcliffe’s Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain on Friday, April 26 as they perform a variety of musical genres. Everything from ABBA to ZZ Top, Tchaikovsky to Nirvana and Lady Gaga to Spaghetti Westerns.  

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.  

Ahead of their performance, we asked Leisa Rea, creative producer and orchestra member, a few questions to get more insight into this talented group. 

What can audiences expect when they come see this performance? 

A concert by The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain is a high-octane roller-coaster ride through every kind of musical genre. We are an orchestra, so each player has a particular role in each piece of music - we deliberately don’t all do the same thing at the same time, which seems to make things much more interesting. We don’t really play traditional ukulele music, instead we use the instrument as a starting point to explore things that shouldn’t really be played on a uke, from classical to heavy metal and everything in between. We are musicians and vocalists but perhaps most importantly, purveyors of pure entertainment.  

 From where do you draw inspiration for your art? 

From everywhere. We are an eclectic group of people with very different backgrounds and influences. We are a cover band essentially, so we have the whole history of the tunes and songs to pillage from. We don’t always take the most direct route.  

 What drew you to this performance field? 

The idea began as a sort of joke almost 40 years ago. The founders, George Hinchliffe and Kitty Lux, wanted to burst the pompous bubble that was ‘the music industry’ by making a slightly anarchic orchestra made up entirely of ukuleles. Also, it’s cool to be in a band.  

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

There are seven members of the orchestra and we often run through one of two songs as a warmup, but individually we warm up differently. If you walked past the dressing rooms you might hear, intricate ukulele picking, vocal warmups, tea being slurped and maybe a bit of laughter. We don’t have any strange superstitions or rituals - although we have always played the same tune in sound check for the last 39 years. That’s a ritual of sorts, I suppose.  

 Pick 5 words that best describe your work. 

‘Ukulele’ ‘Orchestra’ ‘of’ ‘Great’ ‘Britain’  (Forgive me).  

What is the best advice that you have been given? 

We’ve managed to remain independent without being owned or controlled by the music business. I guess that means we might not have listened to much advice, but instead, trusted our own creative impulse. 

How did you decide to incorporate comedy into your performances? 

We just don’t take ourselves too seriously. We know it’s a silly idea that shouldn’t really work - and yet it does. The comedy comes from us knowing that and us wanting to be playful with an audience. 

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

We played a private gig for the late Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday at Windsor Castle in front all the major royals. That was memorable. We also played a gig in Svalbard which is almost at the North Pole. That was cold.  

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

We like everything. There are too many of us to be able to answer that accurately. If you want to know who I was listening to today - it was Barbra Streisand - but tomorrow it will be The Clash. Variety is the spice of life. 

What is your favorite song that you have done a cover of and why? 

I think you might get seven different answers if you asked each of us individually. We all have things we love playing and things we don’t! A truthful answer might be most recent song we are working on because when something is new to us, it has a certain appeal or challenge and we are all keen to play it. We have eight new cover songs in this current show, but you’ll have to come along to see what they are! 

Celebrate Artosphere Festival Orchestra's Greatest Performances in its Final Season

After 12 seasons and more than 35 performances, the celebrated orchestra is ending on a high note. For its finale season, AFO programs will celebrate the orchestra’s amazing performances presented as part of Artosphere: Arkansas’ Arts + Nature Festival under the baton of Maestro Corrado Rovaris. 

The first program, American Soundscapes, was programmed as a tribute to the first AFO program and season in 2011. Aaron Copland’s Four Dance Episodes from Rodeo was the first piece this orchestra performed in 2011, and this season it will be the opening piece on May 14. The concert will finish with Antonín Dvořák's Symphony No. 9 From the New World. This piece concluded the first concert ever performed by AFO.  

Over the years Maestro Rovaris has established a tradition of featuring orchestra musicians as soloists for new or contemporary works. This year he will continue this tradition by inviting arx duo, who serve as the percussion principals within AFO, to perform as soloists on Nick DiBernadino's Double Percussion Concerto.  

That first season AFO performed two concerts, American Soundscapes and Italian Soundscapes to connect the new world America with Corrado's home country of Italy. That is being mirrored this year starting with the Tuesday, May 14 performance with the distinctly American pieces by Copeland and Dvorak (popularly known as the music for the Beef – It’s What’s for Dinner and DeBeers’s Diamond commercials). AFO’s next performance is one of Maestro Rovaris' favorite Italian works, Verdi’s Requiem on Saturday, May 18. This work is something that Maestro Rovaris conducted annually at La Scalla Opera House in Milan before moving to America. To honor him and his legacy, AFO chose to perform this incredible work as their second concert. 

AFO will conclude the season with their signature Live from Crystal Bridges: Mozart in the Museum on Wednesday, May 22. At this third and final performance, two of the orchestra’s favorite works will bookend another musical piece that has yet to be performed. The Piano Concerto No. 20 in D minor will be new for the orchestra and will feature pianist Jaeden Izik-Dzurko, a student of the first Artosphere Festival Orchestra’s piano soloist, Benedetto Lupo. As a Canadian- American, the young prodigy will bring us full circle, helping celebrate great performances and incredible musical relationships.  

Enjoy all the refreshing interpretations of your favorite orchestral works filled with shimmering strings, rippling woodwinds, percussive crescendos and more during the Artosphere.  

A special thank you to our Friends of Artosphere for their additional support. Artosphere Festival is sponsored by Walmart. Premier Artosphere Festival support is provided by Kelly & Marti Sudduth. Artosphere Festival Orchestra Principal support for Maestro Corrado Rovaris and Dover Quartet is provided by Reed and Mary Ann Greenwood. Artosphere Festival Orchestra Show Underwriters are Greg & Hannah Lee and Peter B. Lane & Barbara Putman. Artosphere Festival is made possible by Tyson Foods and the generosity of all our Friends of Artosphere. 

Tickets to these and other Artosphere performances and events 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.    

Show Dates & Times  
American Soundscapes | Tuesday, May 14 at 7 pm | $10 tickets

Verdi’s Requiem | Saturday, May 18 at 8 pm | $15 - 50 tickets

Mozart in the Museum | Wednesday, May 22 at 7 pm | $54 tickets

Show Spotlight: Corny Jokes and Country Music Galore in Shucked

Shucked is the new Tony Award®–winning musical comedy The Wall Street Journal calls “flat out hilarious!” And nobody knows funny like economists. Featuring a book by Tony Award winner Robert Horn (the comic genius behind Tootsie and Designing Women), a score by the Grammy® Award–winning songwriting team of Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally, and directed by Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien (Hairspray), this corn-fed, corn-bred American musical is sure to satisfy your appetite for great musical theater.  

Shucked a completely new story set in Cobb County, an imaginary slice of American heartland populated with the multi-racial descendants of pilgrims who fled the strict Puritans and somehow managed to find a plot of farmland uninhabited by Native Americans. The hero is Maizy, who is all set to marry childhood sweetheart Beau when something inexplicably goes wrong. The corn, the cash crop from which Cobb County residents make pretty much everything, starts dying. 

Maizy is the only resident of her closed-off community willing to embark on a journey to the outside world in search of a solution. She finds herself in the big city — not New York City or Los Angeles, but Tampa, Florida. Starstruck by the day-glow colors and Hawaiian shirts, Maizy naively falls under the spell of con man Gordy who thinks Cobb County holds the solution to the debt he owes to criminals. Gordy convinces some of Maizy's neighbors that he can solve their corn problem, but Beau is unconvinced. 

The humor is non-stop and quick-witted as is typical of Horn. Beau’s brother, Peanut, dishes out a lot of the funniest lines as pearls of wisdom throughout the show. Horn has said that he believes the show works so well right now because of where we are as a nation, post-COVID. “People don’t want to be lectured right now — they want to laugh. You are watching people open their hearts in a way you didn’t expect through comedy. “

Shucked songwriters Clark and McAnally bring a country-rock spin to this musical. These Grammy-winning country music experts are known for writing catchy yet emotional hits for Kacey Musgraves, Kelly Clarkson, Sheryl Crow, Reba McEntire and many more. The duo has packed their first Broadway score with lots of fun and even deeper feels. The standout song is "Independently Owned," a showstopper turns the American dream of small business entrepreneurship into an anthem of Black female independence.  

“I hope (people) walk away (from this show) laughing, and I hope they walk away looking at the world a little differently, looking at people who are different than them a little differently,” Horn said. “One of the things we said while working on Shucked was: We’re never going to fix the world. But if we can heal it a little, we’re very happy.” 

Show Dates & Times  

Tuesday, Dec. 17 at 7 pm  

Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 7 pm  

Thursday, Dec. 19 at 1:30 pm & 7 pm  

Friday, Dec. 20 at 8 pm 

Saturday, Dec. 21 at 2 pm & 8 pm  

Sunday, Dec. 22 at 2 pm  

Recommended for ages 10+. Contains adult themes, moments of adult language and a harvest of corny innuendo.  

SUBSCRIBE NOW TO GET THE BEST SEATS AT THE BEST PRICES TO THIS AND FIVE ADDITIONAL BLOCKBUSTER SHOWS IN THE 2024-25 SEASON!  

10 Questions with 10x10 Performers, Take 6

The multi-Platinum® a cappella sextet Take 6 has collaborated across genres and toured the globe with their funky grooves and received praise from luminaries including Ray Charles, Ella Fitzgerald and Quincy Jones – who called them “the baddest vocal cats on the planet”. Everyone is taking note of Take 6, so don’t miss their Northwest Arkansas debut on Friday, April 12, as the 2024 VoiceJam A Cappella Festival Headliner.  

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.    

We asked Claude McKnight, the founder of Take 6, a few questions to better understand this electrifying group.  

How did Take 6 get started? 

I started a quartet as a freshman at Oakwood University as a hobby. That quartet grew into a sextet quickly as I met guys who loved close harmony and jazz chords. 

40 years is a long time for any group to be together. What's the secret to your longevity? 

The easy and true answer is that we have love and respect for one another. 

What drew you to this performance field?  

I think it was a genuine collective love for vocal and a cappella music. 

You’ve collaborated with lots of artists. Which one of your collaborations is your favorite and why? 

I’m sure for everyone it could be a different answer. For me it would have to be Quincy Jones. As a producer, there’s no one better creatively in my opinion. He was able to get things from us that even we didn’t know were possible. 
Do you have any pre-show rituals or warm-ups? If so, what are they? 

One of the things I personally do is to listen to music and just stay calm and collected. I warm up very slowly by warming up my lower range and then moving into my higher register. 

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

Meeting Nelson Mandela was truly a highlight. Singing at the White House, as well as the Kremlin sticks out also. 

Do you have a favorite genre of music that you like to perform? 

Jazz. 

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

I’m a huge classic Earth Wind and Fire fan. On any given day I’ll be playing “That’s the Way of the World” and “Can’t Hide Love.” I also really love Michael McDonald, James Ingram, Marvin Gaye, and Bobby Caldwell. 

What’s one thing you want people to take away from your performance?  

We always leave people to think about all the energy we share during a performance. For us, we spread love and that’s what we leave. 

Give us five words that describe a Take 6 performance.  

Authentic. Energetic. Soothing. Inspiring. Spiritual. 

Michael Palascak Brings Relatable Brand of Comedy to Walton Arts Center

Known for his “great likability,” Michael Palascak is bringing a hilarious show to Walton Arts Center IN April. Read more about how he started in comedy, his inspiration and his advice to other comedians! 

Palascak grew up in Wabash, Indiana, began his career in Chicago and now resides in Los Angeles.

And yes, you’ve probably seen him on either “The Late Late Show with James Corden” or “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” or even on “A Little Late with Lilly Singh,” “Letterman,” “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” “The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson,” “Conan” or his Comedy Central special. He was a top-five finalist on “Last Comic Standing” where one judge claimed, “my first impression of Michael was a great likability.  This is a guy that could star in a sitcom.”   

Palascak gets a lot of his inspiration from fellow comic Mitch Hedberg, who inspired Palascak to explore the world of stand-up comedy. Palascak explained that he felt a connection with Hedburg because he was more introverted, which was similar to Palascak’s personality. 

Being a middle child, Palascak, of course, felt the need and desire to entertain and get attention. He realized by second grade that stand-up comedy was what he wanted to pursue although he was never the “funny” kid in class. His parents were naturally funny as well, Palascak attributes his sense of humor to them. He got used to hearing and telling jokes as a young kid in his household. 

Palascak’s likability allows him to relate to his audiences in a real way which sets up the huge laughs he gets from his sharp, personal material.  Palascak explained that when he’s on stage, he tries to talk to the audience like it’s a normal, everyday conversation. He encourages other comedians to give themselves freedom to be who they are. 

​“In a lot of ways, he represents the ideal antidote to the sort of unbridled cynicism that pervades much of contemporary stand-up,” said Drew Hunt of The Chicago Reader. “Michael’s optimism continues in the new National Lampoon series: The Bright Side where he takes a positive stance on a negative topic that can be funny and ridiculous. Palascak shared that eventually his YouTube series may become a book in the long run. 

Consistently writing and performing, Palasack recently released both a new album, The Internet Live through 800 Pound Gorilla, and a new stand-up special on the Dry Bar app, 1984.   

Try out The Comedy Zone for a fun date night or night out with friends when Michael Palascak takes the stage on Thursday, April 4 at 7:30 pm. Tickets start at just $21, so grab yours now! 

Arkansas Film Fest Celebrates Local Creatives

Films, no matter their plot, have the power to create change across communities, elicit emotions and start conversations. All around Arkansas, filmmakers are sharing their stories in a variety of ways. Fayetteville Film Festival and Walton Arts Center are thrilled to highlight some of these incredible films on Saturday, April 6 at 8 pm.  

This mini-film festival showcases local filmmakers and honors their stories and artistic expression. This is one of four collaborative film showcases between the two arts organizations this season.     

We asked each director a few questions to gain insight into their respective films.

Kids from Westfork – Dalton Hays | West Fork 

Kids from Westfork is a film inspired by a build-up of negativity in the community of West Fork at the end of 2020.  

“I love my community and I believe there's good people here, and that it's not a bad place," explained Hays. “It's a very good place.” Through this film, the filmmaker wanted to showcase the people in it and to remind them that West Fork is a place that is worthwhile and worth celebrating. The film was shot in West Fork to capture the beauty of the town, the community, its surroundings and people.  

“I want people to take away from this film is (the understanding) that people as individuals have an impact, no matter where they come from,” Hays told us. “It can be big or it can be small. What kind of impact will you leave behind in your community?” 

Different Not Less – Alexandra Duran | Rogers 

Alexandra Duran’s film, Different Not Less, was shot in the kitchen and living room of Duran’s childhood home, giving the film an organic and natural look with an intimate feel. This short film has been screened in nine film festivals from February to October 2023.  

The inspiration for Different Not Less originated from the idea that Duran wants to accept herself more while also advocating for high-masking people with autism. Different Not Less explores the personal and authentic view of Duran’s acceptance of their late autism diagnosis as a 17-year-old, all voiced through a journal entry. 

“I especially wanted to establish more representation for disabled individuals and break the stigma of there being a specific ‘look’ or stereotype of disabilities,” Duran said. They hope to change the stereotypical perspective of what autism is and to shift the view of it to a different way of processing rather than a deficit. 

Libertad – Hilary Lex & Ashely Hayes | Bentonville 

Libertad, about the World Ride’s program – a bike program for women, features a story based in Guatemala, where the main character lives in the foothills above Antigua. The film features the surrounding towns and trails of Antigua, the active volcano Acatenango, Lake Atitlan, various coffee farms and a mountain biking preserve called El Zur. This is the third screening of Libertad; this film can also be found on Osprey Pack’s YouTube channel.  

The filmmakers shared that they had been working with women in mountain biking for several years in Northwest Arkansas, so it was a natural extension of their network and personal interest to get involved with women internationally.  

“We are inspired by normal women doing rad things in the outdoors,” explained Lex and Hayes. “We’ve learned the repeating themes of community and healing is such a universal story for women in this sport.” 

The film is about so much more than just biking. 

“[As filmmakers,] We have the honor and joy of seeing things in women that they can’t quite yet see in themselves. It’s important for me to amplify women’s voices and unique stories to help inspire not only themselves but ultimately more women and girls of their own strength and power. Sometimes it just takes one person believing in you for you to believe in yourself,” Lex said.  

“I’d really love for people to feel inspired to get out and see the world and just how big and how small it is,” Hayes said. “You’ll meet people who inspire you to create entire businesses, to share universal stories, to enjoy their way of life and you’ll probably get to see epic places you never even knew existed.” 

Madness Within – Tyler Horne & Levi Horne | West Fork 

Madness Within about an occultist doctor and his patient has been screened at various film festivals including the Texas Short Film Festival, the No Coast Film Festival and more. This film was shot locally in Fayetteville at an office building in downtown. The filmmakers share that they were inspired by folklore and superstitions about monsters in our culture, specifically werewolves.  

“Madness Within explores the ugliness that can surface when we are desperate to get what we want and that desire can warp our view on what is real and what is twisted fantasy or superstition,” explained Tyler Horne. “We want anyone who views our film to take away a warning to not judge a book by its cover.” 

Angle of Attack – Russell Leigh Sharman | Fayetteville 

Sharman’s film, Angle of Attack, features two iconic Fayetteville locations: the bottom floor of the Old Post Office, which is the underground bar room for local restaurant, Cheers, and Goblin House Tattoo Studio. Sharman told us that the script called for a tattoo studio and a fancy wine bar, so each location was perfect as they both had a lot of character and atmosphere built into space. This film focuses on stepping outside of one’s comfort zone and revealing what is hidden in you. 

Angle of Attack was presented at multiple national and regional film festivals including the Oxford Film Festival and the Arkansas Cinema Society Filmland. Sharman shared with us that as a kid, he struggled with spelling and carried a shameful spelling bee moment with him since he was young, thus giving him an emotional tattoo.  

When asked what he wants viewers to take away from the film, Sharman said, “own your errors and imperfections — feeding your creativity and making art is an act of bravery.” 

Morning Room – Lexie Mosby | Conway

Morning Room is a film centered around taking control back over stories and situations of sexual assault and harassment. Mosby explained that this film is extremely personal to her since it is autobiographical. Morning Room has been featured in the Made in Arkansas Film Festival where it was nominated for best student short and best actor. 

“One thing that I want viewers to take away from my film is that sexual assault can look so many ways,” shared Mosby. “It’s not the thing where you can mark off so many boxes and then it gets classified as sexual assault. Instead, it is the type of thing where it is completely reliant on the guidelines and conversations had within that relationship. I feel like the media really misrepresents sexual assault and what it is and survivors are being invalidated and hurt because of it. “ 

The film was shot in Bryant in a home that belongs to her boyfriend. The location gave her complete access to the entire house along with permission to make whatever changes might be needed for the filming.   

J.O.E. – Bailey Vo | Bentonville 

Bailey Vo’s film, J.O.E., was shot at Pulaski Academy and a crew member’s house, both located in Little Rock. Vo explained that she chose these locations because they fit the look and the overall color palette of the film. J.O.E. has been screened eight other times at various film festivals including the University of Central Arkansas Film Fest and the Student World Impact Film Festival.  

The inspiration for this film was taken from Vo’s personal experiences struggling with her mental health while also witnessing the experiences of her friends and family who also struggle with mental health.  

“I wanted to create a short film that highlighted the effects of how mental health and suicide can impact those around you and to talk about how to continue living despite what life may throw at you,” Vo said. J.O.E. is specifically centered around men’s mental health and toxic masculinity. Vo said she wanted to change the stereotype and prove that anyone can struggle mentally despite what they may present on the outside. “One thing I want viewers to take away from the film is the importance of talking about uncomfortable topics of toxic masculinity, coping with the loss of a loved one and knowing when it is time to receive mental health help,” Vo explained. 

Joan and the Rolling Stone – Ethan Edwards | Greenbriar 

Joan and the Rolling Stone, shot by Ethan Edwards, was filmed in a couple locations across Manhattan. This film was screened at the Fayetteville Film Fest and the New York Shorts International Film Festival. Edwards got his inspiration for the film from reading lots of Sam Shepard one-acts. He felt the absurdity of the plays helped get him into a headspace where a talking bowling ball became a plausible storyline. When asked what he wanted viewers to take away from his film, Edwards said, “life is continually interesting.” 


I Can’t Do This Anymore - Laina Ludwig | Siloam Springs

Laina Ludwig shot I Can’t Do This Anymore while she was a student at John Brown University. Ludwig filmed both on campus as well as in a house owned by the campus. This film was screened at Fayetteville Film Festival and Sunny Side Up Film Festival where Ludwig earned the award of best first time filmmaker.

While taking film classes at John Brown, Ludwig was also taking child psychology classes. She explained that she felt the need to understand what a child experiences when their parent chooses to cope in a negative way. “I want viewers to honestly ask themselves if this is reflective of their experience,” explained Ludwig, “and if so, there are people who can help you.”

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. 

Additional upcoming showcases are Indie Films Artosphere on Saturday, May 11 and LGBTQIA+ Filmmakers on Thursday, June 13.

Celebrate Women's History Month with These Concerts

Women's History Month is a designated time to celebrate and honor the contributions, achievements and struggles of women throughout history. It provides a platform to recognize the pivotal roles women have played in shaping societies, cultures, politics, sciences and other fields, often in the face of adversity and discrimination. Honor Women’s History Month by grabbing tickets to one of the Walmart AMP shows this season featuring outstanding female performers. 

Maggie Rogers is best known for her music and you can experience her talent on Monday, June 3. But what you might not know is that Rogers just obtained her Master of Religion and Public Life degree from Harvard Divinity School. This program is designed for experienced professionals who wish to develop in-depth knowledge of the complex ways religion influences public life related to their career areas. She is one of 11 people who will be the first to complete the new program, which launched last year.  

“Whatever I was learning in class would immediately get put into practice in my professional world,” Rogers said. “It felt really integrated. The MRPL enhanced my work and vice versa. Now I’m going to spend the next year putting out this record and performing and living out so much of what I've been thinking about. I feel like I’ve just barely started to scratch the surface of what I’ve been studying here.” 

Sarah McLachlan broke down barriers in the Canadian music industry and turned it on its head in the ‘90s with the all-women tour, Lilith Fair. McLachlan had a vision for an all-female music festival and in 1997 Lilith Fair was born, proving that a women-only lineup could not just draw crowds, but it could become the top-grossing touring festival that year. Additionally, McLachlan is a renowned singer-writer known for her soulful lyrics and beautiful melodies. With a career spanning over three decades, McLachlan has captivated audiences worldwide with her effortless voice and emotional performances. You can experience the iconic performance of Sarah McLachlan on Tuesday, July 2. 

Back in 2021, singer-songwriter Lauren Daigle was recognized for the impact that both her music and philanthropy had on millions. She was presented with The Global Impact Honor, recognizing her as a genre trailblazer and ambassador. Worldwide, she has sold over one million concert tickets on three continents, including 170 sold-out headline performances, and has donated over $2 million to 25+ organizations from those sales alone. Daigle makes a point to share her faith through her music in a very open and honest way, welcoming people into her faith. Experience Lauren Daigle’s soul-inspiring music on Wednesday, August 14. 

These are only a few of the amazing women who will be performing all summer long at the Walmart AMP. For more details or to purchase tickets go to www.amptickets.com or by calling 479.443.5600. Purchase in person at the Walmart AMP Box Office 10 am until 5 pm during ticket on-sale days or at the Walton Arts Center Box Office 10 am until 2 pm on weekdays. 

More Shows to See! 
Tate McRae | Sunday, July 21 at 8 pm 

Barbie The Movie: In Concert® | Sunday, Aug. 4 at 8 pm 

Lainey Wilson | Saturday, Aug. 10 at 7 pm 

Melissa Etheridge & Jewel | Saturday, Oct. 5 at 7:30 pm 

Meghan Trainor | Thursday, Oct. 10 at 6:30 pm 

A World Premier Performance, Right Here at Walton Arts Center

After 20 years, the rebellious dance company Pilobolus makes its highly anticipated return to Walton Arts Center on Thursday, March 14 at 7 pm, bringing with it a world premiere.   

As an exciting addition to an already unforgettable evening of dance, Pilobolus will present a rare gem in their 50+ year repertory, the world premiere of a women's duet piece. Duet explores the natural progression of life, as children eventually come to support their predecessors. Sculptural in form, highlighting balance and strength, and capturing the essence of life's evolving roles and everlasting cycles, Duet will explore the beautiful complexities of role reversals that are not just inevitable but also enriching, as they reveal the unfading bonds that link generations.  

“It is a special thing to watch the intimacy of a duet, especially when it is two Pilobolus women,” explained marketing director Emily Denaro. “This brand-new duet highlights the fluidity, beauty, and strength of relationships, especially as we age. We all go on this journey together and at different times need support from others, as well as give support to others.” 

Pilobolus is known as a rebellious dance company, as they fall outside the norms of a traditional modern dance company and push the boundaries of human physicality while imbuing a sense of humor, depth and passion in their work.  

Sneak peek of a rehearsal for Duet, the world premiere piece.

“Audiences can expect to see logic defying partnering interwoven with themes of nature, morality, and history," Denar said. “We are a small company of only six dancers who embody the large range of work the Pilobolus does, often shocking audiences with the power we bring with such a small company.”

The Re: Creation Tour includes a dynamic collection of dance pieces that bring humor, happiness and hope to the stage. Pilobolus’s Re: Creation Tour reminds us that play and creativity are fundamental to the human experience. Stories are alive and breathing and can teach us, comfort us, and connect us to ourselves and each other. Alongside groundbreaking new pieces, the company breathes new life into beloved works from the past to create an experience both timely and timeless.   

Tickets start at $24 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.    

Meet Four of the ACA-Awesome Teams Competing at VoiceJam

The annual VoiceJam A Cappella Competition on April 13 brings the best a cappella groups from across the country to compete at Walton Arts Center.  We asked each of the eight competitors a few questions to learn more them! Get to know four of these competitors: The Amateurs, Green Tones, Vocal Point and Final Measure! Want to read more? Check out our second installment here!

Don’t forget to keep an eye out for part two with responses from the remaining four competitors. 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. 

The Amateurs – Washington University, St. Louis 

What  is in your repertoire? 

We don't have a specific genre or theme that we stick to. Our repertoire is specific to the current iteration of the group but we often leans towards pop, some R&B and jazz pop. Some recent songs we performed at our concerts have been “Bass Song” by Eryn Allen Kane, “Lacy” by Olivia Rodrigo, “Georgia” by Phoebe Bridgers and “Pretty Please” by Dua Lipa.  
Does your group work with precisely notated music, or do you improvise? 
We work with precisely notated music and we also sing arrangements exclusively composed by members of our group. Any member can arrange and it is highly encouraged - we even hold arranging school/support sessions for new arrangers to get advice on their work from our music directors! 
How did you come up with the name for your group? What is the story behind it? 
The Amateurs was formed in 1991 by a close-knit group of friends. Fun fact, it used to be a band with instruments, but it slowly developed into an a cappella group. The name "The Amateurs" was picked because of the definition of an amateur: someone who does something because they love it. Of course our motto is "do it because you love it.” 
Do you have any pre-show rituals or warm-ups? If so, what are they? 
We have the same set of tongue twisters that have been passed down for years! We will not start a rehearsal or prepare for a performance without reciting them. We always pair them with corresponding hand movements that have developed over the decades. 
What songs, artists or genres of music are you currently listening to on your personal playlists – give us your top 5? 

Yebba, Beyoncé, Eryn Allen Kane, Hozier and Phoebe Bridgers. If the list could keep going, Lana Del Rey, SZA, Ariana Grande and Noah Kahan. Everyone's taste is so diverse, and we love sharing new songs with one another. 

What does your group like to do in their free time? 
In our free time, you will find us hanging out around campus, having movie nights, board game nights, picnicking in Forest Park in St. Louis and spending time together as roommates. 
 

Green Tones – University of North Texas 

What  is in your repertoire? 

Our repertoire opens with “Intro” by Orion Sun, then “Alone” by Heart and closes with “The Neighborhood” by Grace Enger. 

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

We primarily work with notated music because we try to have original arrangements ready at the beginning of the semester that already consider our group's current structure and sound. With that being said, we try not to limit ourselves and we improvise/change certain vowels, phrases and dynamics as needed. 

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

Typically, our pre-show ritual is to set the intentions of the group's goal and perform accordingly. Nothing crazy, just a reaffirmation that we are a group and we are there to be the best we can be. 

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

All our members are unique and listen/sing all different styles of music. Whether it be our beatboxer's love for death metal or our music director's love for Lizzy McAlpine, choosing a top five would be impossible! 

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

In our free time we love to talk and catch up! We all have busy schedules and are hard at work on the days we can meet, but when there is free time, we love to joke around. It's a large group with so many different, fun personalities, the conversation topics are endless! 

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

One thing we want people to know and see within our performance is how dedicated we are to our craft. We all love music and a cappella is another outlet to show and express that love. With every performance or recording, we hope to show the passion we have as a collective for music and making art. 

 

Vocal Point – University of Delaware 

What  is in your repertoire? 

For our set, we will be singing a mashup of “Tongue” originally performed by Maribou State (feat. Holly Walker) and Loïc Nottet’s “Million Eyes,” “Medusa” by Kaia Jette and Hayley Williams’ “Simmer.” 

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

Our group only works with notated music. We have a wonderful arrangement team that consists of current members who arrange our music every semester. Additionally, we have a huge library of past songs that Vocal Point has sung. 

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

Before competitions we have a tradition called “VP letters.” Each member writes a personalized letter to someone else. On the day of competitions, we give our letters to each other and it is so special! Having a personalized note of encouragement, happy memories and inside jokes from every current member brings the loving energy of Vocal Point to maximum capacity and makes us feel so close. It reminds us why we do what we do with the people around us and creates an infectious energy that cannot be duplicated. 

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

“Harley's in Hawaii” by Katy Perry, “Me and Your Mama” by Childish Gambino, “Clarity” by Zedd, “777” by Silk Sonic and “Valerie” by Amy Winehouse. 

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

We come from a wide variety of majors including education, chemical engineering, music and criminal justice! Between us, there are lots of activities we like to do, including stand-up comedy, fishkeeping club and improv. Others like to write original music, read books and advocate for social justice causes. As a whole, we love to sing together and hang out. A Vocal Point staple is traveling to the rope swing & ropes course on a hiking trail near campus!  

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

We are very passionate about the music we make, both on the stage and in the studio. Check out our latest EP, “Collision,” on all streaming platforms! 

 

Final Measure – University of Houston 

What is in your repertoire? 

Our repertoire is slowly expanding to any genre! We mostly work on pop, R&B, a bit of country and electronic dance music!   

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

Final Measure typically works with precisely notated music. The group comprises members with various backgrounds and majors, ranging from business, acting, vocal performance, marketing and more. Most of the group members have experience in precisely notated music, such as musicals, show choir and semi-professional chorale.

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

Our group has various warm-ups, ranging from breathing exercises to movement routines. During our competition season, we typically go backstage about two to three groups before our performance. This allows us to project our full power within a certain time frame, helping to avoid putting too little or too much strain on our voices. We start with scales using various vowels while stretching, focusing on maintaining breath support and engaging our core muscles. Then, we do a whole-body shakedown followed by a brief yoga session to increase the group's awareness of their bodies. As part of our ritual, I usually give a pre-game speech followed by an “I feel so good” chant. 

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

In terms of my personal preferences and listening to some of the group members' favorites, there's a couple of bangers in there. These are artists such as Chloe x Halle, Renee Rapp, Jung Kook, Lawrence, and Rihanna.  

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

In our free time, we often have groups going out to eat after a productive rehearsal. We also enjoy organizing themed parties and going out for karaoke nights on campus. Additionally, we like to do mini performances in our free time, not only to maintain our performance repertoire but also to keep our voices fresh. 

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

Final Measure is a student-led and founded group that began in 2021. Over our first three years, we have won various awards, including runner-up for best soloist, best vocal percussionist and more. We are a competitive a cappella group that also enjoys having fun with others who share the same passion.

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