Dog Man Leaps Off the Page and Onto our Stage

“Dog Man: The Musical keeps young audiences giggling for nearly 90 minutes. You have to love a family show that makes adults laugh, too.”

— New York Times 

---

Walton Arts Center will present TheaterWorksUSA’s NY Times Critic’s Pick, Dog Man: The Musical based on the popular book series by Dav Pilkey. Dog Man: The Musical will be presented Nov. 22-23.  

Best buds George and Harold have been creating comics for years, but now that they’re in 5th grade, they figure it's time to level up and write a musical based on their favorite character, Dog Man, the crime-biting sensation who is part dog, part man and ALL HERO! How hard could it be? 

With the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, Dog Man loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture. But while trying his best to be a good boy, can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings? Can he catch Petey, the world’s most evil cat, who has cloned himself to exact revenge on the doggy do-gooder? And will George and Harold finish their show before lunchtime? Find out in this epic musical adventure featuring the hilarity and heart of Dav Pilkey’s beloved characters. 

Recommended for ages 6-10, TheaterWorksUSA's Dog Man: The Musical is a hilarious production based on the worldwide bestselling series from Dav Pilkey, the creator of Captain Underpants and Cat Kid Comic Club. The show is written by Kevin Del Aguila and Brad Alexander, who collaborated on the Emmy®-winning series Peg + Cat on PBS, TheaterWorksUSA’s Click, Clack, Moo and Clifford The Big Red Dog on PBS and Amazon. Jen Wineman directs and choreographs. 

---

“Dog Man: The Musical surpasses my highest expectations. It is the ‘Perfect Mash-up’ of memorable music, humor, and love.” Dog Man creator Dav Pilkey 

---

Prepare for the show! Grab your favorite Dog Man books and think about how seeing the production and reading the novel are different – and how they are similar!  

• Take a closer look at the heroes and villains in Dog Man. How are these characters drawn: their expressions, their clothing and the colors used in each illustration? Can you tell if they are a hero or villain just by visual clues? 

• Every creator has their own style. Look at Dave Pilkey’s illustrations – is the art realistic? Cartoony? What can you tell from the expressions on faces? The gestures and movement of characters? The background and its details? How does the use of color change over the course of a page or a chapter? 

• Sounds set the scene and signal that something is happening, adding layers to the story. Motion lines indicate how characters or object are moving. What sounds do you see? How is each of the sounds written – does the way its written reflect what it actually sounds like? What gestures and motions do you see? 

---

You have three chances to see Dog Man: The Musical at 11 am and 3 pm on Saturday, Nov. 22 and at 2 pm on Sunday, Nov. 23.  

Spend an Evening with a Piano Wizard

This solo piano concert will be like none you’ve ever heard, exploring the rich history of the Great Brazilian Songbook as interpreted by a modern-day piano genius.

Robert Ginsburg, jazz curator

To music lovers and critics in Brazil, André Mehmari is a musical wonder and a source of national pride. Imagine a meeting of Mozart and Keith Jarrett in Brazil: Mozart for the intensity of his creation, Jarrett for his relationship to improvisation at the modern piano.

“For nearly 20 years it’s been my ambition to bring this piano phenom to Walton Arts Center, but he has been an illusive targe,” said Ginsburg. “He rarely tours in the U.S. and keeps a busy schedule in his home country of Brazil. We finally landed a date, and this solo piano concert will be like none you’ve ever heard, exploring the rich history of the Great Brazilian Songbook as interpreted by a modern day piano genius.”

Mehmari’s standards are the compositions that comprise what he calls “The Great Brazilian Songbook,” works written at the same time that the Great American Songbook was created, and equally rich in lyricism and sublimity. All of the world’s songbooks and literature are his realm, a borderless inspiration expressed in his compositions and improvisations.

He proves his skill and prowess in this area during his solo piano performances where he invites the audience to give him suggestions which, in the moment, he spins into an improvised suite. He invites you to come to the concert with the music you love and offer it for the creation of these one-time-only but forever memorable creations. Come hear one of the greatest musical minds of our time when Mehmari take the stage at 8 pm on Saturday, Sept. 20. All-in ticket prices are are $40.25-$63.25.

Sharing Memories, Sharing Stories

The Remember Balloons is a heartwarming dance-theater production that brings families together through storytelling. Inspired by the award-winning children’s book by the same name, The Remember Balloons uses music, movement and storytelling telling to explore memory, family and connection.

“I found the book in the library under ‘Books About Difficult Topics,’ took it home, read it with my kids – and knew I had to make it into movement,” said Dominic Moore-Dunson, the show’s co-producer, director and choreographer. “It’s a story about love, remembrance and what happens when memories start to fade.”

The work equips children and families with the language and resources necessary to communicate about and hold on to memories when someone we love begins to forget.

“So many families have been impacted by memory loss, whether through aging, Alzheimer’s or dementia,” said co-producer Ashley Moore-Dunson. “Watching a loved one forget can be heartbreaking, but it also reminds us to cherish the moments we still have.”

Studies continually show that music has a unique way of bringing memories back to life. A familiar song, a melody from the past can unlock feelings and stories that we thought were lost.

“My compositions for this piece are meant to hold those emotions – like a musical scrapbook of love and remembrance,” said composer and jazz great Theron Brown.

“This piece is full of heart. We made it for young people and their grown-ups – to open the door for conversations we often avoid but deeply need,” Dominic said. “It’s tender. It’s joyful. It’s one of the most meaningful things I’ve ever made.”Through dance in this piece, the actors can express what words often can’t. The weight of holding on to memories. The fear of losing them and the beauty of passing them on.

“This show holds a special place in my heart, as it was born out of my own family's journey with Alzheimer's disease,” Dominic said. “I often wish that a show like this had been present for my family, as it would have provided a tool to initiate some of the more difficult conversations and emotions everyone faced.”

“This piece is full of heart. It’s joyful. It’s one of the most meaningful things I’ve ever made.”

— Dominic Moore-Dunson

This dance theater piece was created not only to introduce families and young people to positive and appropriate ways to engage in those difficult conversations but also to immerse them in the whimsical and joyful world of storytelling.

The show is filled with moments that encourage the audience to dance, move and laugh, offering a sense of playfulness and wonder because it’s essential to balance the more challenging themes with extreme moments of joy and fun, so the audience will experience a full range of emotions—just as life itself offers.

The Remember Balloons isn’t just a performance. It’s an opportunity to reflect on your own remember balloons and to celebrate the people and moments that have shaped your life. 

To fully experience this beautiful piece, you might consider reading the book with your family, then seeing the show. You can even read the book along with Dominic and learn more about his approach to this story here.

Below are some questions that you can talk about together after the show.

• What are the “balloons” in this story?

• How are they like memories?

• Why does Grandpa have so many balloons at the beginning?

• What memories would make up your own balloons?

• How does James feel when Grandpa’s balloons start to drift away?

• What does it mean when James realizes he’s now holding his own and Grandpa’s balloons at the end?

• What are some ways to remember and share stories with family members, especially those who may have fading memories?

• Think of a happy memory with a family member. Draw a balloon with a picture of that memory in it.

Celebrate Celtic Culture with Your Lads and Lasses

This season you don’t even have to leave the country to celebrate some of the best parts of Celtic culture. We are bringing you a mix of Scottish rock, the world’s best pub experience, the finest Irish-American ensemble and a celebration of 30 years of Irish dance.  

Pick one show for a cultural escape, or get tickets to them all for a full-scale cultural exchange. Sláinte 

---

Skerryvore, Sept. 23, 7 pm

Series: 10x10 Arts Series 

What to expect: Scottish rock band 

With a mix of bagpipes, fiddles, accordions, bass, drums and whistles, Skerryvore represents the best in contemporary Scottish traditional music. Both epic in melody and intimate in feeling, this group plugs into the roots of Scotland and blasts it out to the world. Inspired by a wide range of influences, this high-energy, immersive experience is sure to captivate audiences of all ages. 

---

Choir of Man, Jan 27, 7 pm

Series: Off-Dickson 

What to expect: A celebration of pub culture and great music 

The Olivier Award-nominated, worldwide smash hit The Choir of Man is coming to Northwest Arkansas. Set in the world’s best pub (in England or Ireland), this uplifting production serves up 90 minutes of non-stop entertainment featuring a cast of extraordinary singers, dancers, musicians and a charming poet. Enjoy everything from the anthems of Queen and Guns N’ Roses to the soulful sounds of Luther Vandross and Adele to the chart-toppers of Sia, Paul Simon, Avicii, Katy Perry and more. This show has something for everyone, including a real working bar on stage. Come ready to drink in the excitement and raise a glass with The Choir of Man. Cheers! 

---

Solas, April 8, 7 pm 

Series: Land O’Lakes Concert Series  

What to expect: Celtic music ensemble 

Hailed by The Boston Globe as “the finest Celtic ensemble this country has ever produced,” Solas has captivated audiences with their spellbinding musicianship and genre-defying creativity since 1995. Formed in New York City, the band quickly became a revolutionary force in Irish-American music, weaving traditional Irish tunes with elements of folk, bluegrass, Americana and contemporary songwriting. With driving rhythms and heartfelt vocals, Solas redefines the Celtic sound for a new generation. 

---

Riverdance, June 9-11  

Series: Coca-Cola Night Out 

What to expect: Irish dance that you have to see to believe 

Since Riverdance first emerged onto the world stage, its fusion of Irish and international dance and music has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. The Grammy Award®-winning music and infectiously energetic choreography established Riverdance as a global cultural sensation. Celebrating an incredible 30-year milestone, Riverdance will embark on a special anniversary tour, bringing its magic to audiences around the world. With new innovative choreography, costumes and state-of-the-art lighting, projections and graphics, this unique and memorable performance showcases the skill and passion of these world-class dancers, musicians and singers. 

---

10 Questions with 10X10 Arts Series Performers: Skerryvore

Skerryvore has established themselves as the best representation of contemporary Scottish traditional music with their epic melodies, intimate feelings and Scottish roots. Known for their unique fusion of folk, trad, pop and rock through a mix of bagpipes, fiddles, accordions, whistles, vocals, bass and keys, Skerryore is like no one other group.  

The show’s wide range of influence and talent produces a musically expansive, immersive yet intimate set that excites and captivates audiences. You can experience their show at Walton Arts Center on Tuesday, Sept. 23 at 7pm.  

Skerryvore are 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.  

To prepare for their performance, we asked the group to answer a few questions that will gice us more insight into this talented group.  

---

What can audiences expect when they come see this performance?  

“What are Skerryvore? They’re like no one else. Epic of melody, intimate of feeling and plugged into the roots of Scotland but blasting out to the world. “ Expect to want to dance, expect to want to sing. We like to get everyone involved with the show and create a party atmosphere. The music is a unique fusion of our Scottish traditional roots, with elements of rock, pop and Americana, which will take you on a journey from energetic bagpipe melodies to intimate ballads and back again.  

---

 What makes a Skerryvore performance special or unique? 

Our blend of traditional Scottish music with contemporary rhythms and melodies creates a unique fusion which has played a large part in reigniting a traditional Scottish scene for a modern, multicultural audience.  

---

 What is significant about 2025 for Skerryvore - are you celebrating anything special this year? 

This year we are celebrating our 20th anniversary as a band. In May we welcomed over 7,000 fans from across the world to celebrate with us at a concert in front of the stunning Floors Castle in the Scottish borders. We are now taking the show on the road in the UK, Europe and North America with the 20th anniversary tour.  

---

 How did Skerryvore start as a group? 

Skerryvore started on the Isle of Tiree in the Inner Hebrides in 2005, when Alec Dalgish and Fraser West went on holiday and met locals Daniel and Martin Gillespie. The four founding members began playing some tunes together for fun (and some beer money), with no real plans to become anything more than a small Ceilidh band. From those humble beginnings, Skerryvore have evolved to become one of the most successful live acts in Scotland, picking up the Scottish Trad Music Awards live act of the year award 3 times, and having No.1 albums in both the Scottish album chart, and UK Folk Charts.  

---

What are some memorable experiences you’ve had while sharing this performance with others? 

We always love seeing the reaction of crowds to our music, and when people know our songs and sing along with us it can be quite magical. It is always so nice to speak to people and discover how much the music means to them. Our song “Take My Hand” has been used as the first dance for hundreds of weddings and has been the catalyst for a good few on-stage proposals.  

---

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

We don’t really have any rituals as such. Occasionally we will have a small whisky before we start the show!  

---

Pick 5 words that best describe your work.  

Energetic, Scottish, Foot-stomping, Intimate, Fusion 

---

What is the best advice that you have been given?  

Be confident in yourself and your own abilities. It can be easy to develop imposter syndrome or to look at the music that other artists are playing and wish that you could be as ‘good’ as them. It’s easy to forget that even though someone might be able to do something that you can’t nobody will be able to do what you do as well as you can.  

---

What do you want people to know about your culture? 

We like to think of ourselves as ambassadors for Scotland whenever we travel the world. We’d like people to leave a show with an appreciation for the musical culture and heritage that we are so proud of, and hope that they get the same sense of joy from listening as we do from playing. Scottish people are extremely proud as a nation, and we feel very blessed to be in a position that we can help to promote our culture. 

---

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

Our musical tastes are very wide ranging. When we’re on the road, generally the driver for each leg of the journey will control the playlist. This could be anything from Scottish/Irish trad music, to pop, rock, country, bluegrass, dance… Recent artists over the past week of journeys have been Dire Straits, Ocean Colour Scene, Kasey Musgraves, The Strike, Fleetwood Mac and Trail West. 

A Concert for a Cause at AMP Up the Arts!

---

If you love a great show that supprts an even greater cause, we have just the ticket for you. Walton Art’s Center AMP Up the Arts fundraiser is back on Thursday, Sept. 11, presented by General Mills! This year, the iconic R&B group, Boyz II Men, will take the stage for an intimate, unforgettable performance that benefits arts education programming at Walton Arts Center. 

---

This trio holds the distinction of being the best-selling R&B group of all time, with an astounding 64 million albums sold. For more than two decades, Boyz II Men have given fans a rich catalog of hits filled with smooth harmonies and enduring themes. Throughout their astounding career, Boyz II Men have won four Grammy Awards®, nine American Music Awards®, nine Soul Train Awards®, a 2011 MOBO Award® for outstanding contribution to music and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. 

Boyz II Men’s reputation is as timeless as their many top tracks. Their soulful multi-octave sounds and incredible vocals in past chart-toppers like, “End of the Road,” “I’ll Make Love to You,” “One Sweet Day” and “Motownphilly” continue to win fans over the world. Boyz II Men redefined popular R&B and continues to create timeless hits that appeal to listeners across all generations.  

In 2011, the group marked their 20th anniversary by releasing a landmark album, Twenty. The album debuted at No. 20 on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart and contained the group’s first original material in nearly a decade as well as a dozen remastered classic, career-defining hits.  

---

Get ready for a night of lush, soulful arrangements with this playlist honoring Boyz II Men’s anthems.  

---

It’s about more than the music

AMP Up the Arts directly supports Walton Art’s Center’s education programming that allows more than 26,000 students and educators in Northwest Arkansas to experience free, live theater performances annually.  

Last year, the inaugural AMP Up the Arts fundraiser raised $300,000 to support existing arts education programming including teacher training and the Classroom Series, but it also supported exciting new programs that were launched this year.  

• Diamond Awards, a showcase competition that recognizes achievement and excellence in musical theater among local high school students.  

• Broadway Bridges, an initiative that gives high school student groups in Northwest Arkansas access to discounted tickets for select Broadway shows. 

• Hip-Hop 101, a free, afterschool program that introduces young creatives to the most popular genre of American music.  

---

In response to last year’s event, this year, we have exciting new on-site opportunities that will get AMP Up the Arts attendees involved in the fundraising efforts with special surprise giveaways throughout the night! We'll showcase the story of Walton Arts Center's education work through videos and special guests and honor an outstanding arts educator with the Dr. Patricia C. Relph Arts Education Award. 

Support the arts education mission and reserve your seat now when you donate to Walton Arts Center. Donations starting at $71.60 get you a seat for the intimate performance. To celebrate 33 years of Walton Arts Center, an additional donation of $33 gets you reserved parking in the Blue, Gold and White lots. Space is limited for this performance, so act fast! 

---

As a nonprofit organization, Walton Arts Center relies on generous support from the community, along with the revenue generated by shows and events like this, to provide enriching arts education and accessible, affordable programming for the Northwest Arkansas region. 

A Show “So Good, So Good, So Good!” You Won’t Want to Miss It!

Finish these lyrics:

“Hands touchin’ hands, reaching out, touching me, touchin’ you.”

It’s a song that almost everyone knows. Whether the last time you sang the iconic “Bum, bum, bum!” from “Sweet Caroline” was at a college sporting event, your cousin’s wedding or a New Year's Eve party, it’s a melody that’s become part of our cultural zeitgeist. Now you can learn about the man behind the music you love when A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical comes to Walton Arts Center.

---

Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A Beautiful Noise is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-busting, show-stopping American rock icon. With 120 million albums sold, a catalogue of classics like “America,” “Forever in Blue Jeans” and “Sweet Caroline,” an induction into the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame, a Grammy® Lifetime Achievement Award and sold-out concerts around the world that made him bigger than Elvis, Neil Diamond’s story was made to shine on Broadway- and head out on the road across America.  

Like Jersey Boys and Beautiful: The Carol King Musical before it, A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical is an inspiring, exhilarating, energy-filled musical memoir, that tells the untold true story of how America’s greatest hitmaker became a star, set to the songs that defined his career.  

---

“This biographical drama is a heartwarming celebration of Mr. Diamond’s uplifting music and inspirational life.”

— The Washington Times

---

Eight performances of the untold true story of a Brooklyn kid who became an American icon are headed to Walton Arts Center Oct. 14-19! 

Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 7 pm 

Wednesday, Oct. 15 at 7 pm 

Thursday, Oct. 16 at 1:30 and 7 pm 

Friday, Oct. 17 at 8 pm 

Saturday, Oct. 18 at 2 and 8 pm 

Sunday, Oct. 19 at 2 pm 

Single Tickets for A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical are available now!  

---

But wait, there's more! Join us for show themed cocktail classes and fully immerse yourself into a night at the theater. Purchase a cocktail class for $45 or save with three or more classes for a discounted price of $39. Our experts will teach you to make two specialty drinks while you enjoy light appetizers and learn about each delicious cocktail and its ingredients. Your mixologist will provide everything you need to create eye-catching craft cocktails. It’s a night of great memories and new friends!   

A Beautiful Noise Themed Cocktail Classes 

Thursday, Oct. 16 at 5:30 pm 

Friday, Oct. 17 at 6:30 pm 

Saturday, Oct. 18 at 6:30 pm

---

Interested in more than one show this season? Three package options are on sale now:  

P&G Broadway Series  

This subscription includes six larger than life titles, including one global smash hit and five Arkansas premieres direct from Broadway! You’ll also get spectacular subscriber benefits including the same seats at every show and priority purchasing for five Broadway Bonus shows!  

Broadway Sample Package  

Build your perfect stack by selecting at least three performances from any of the week-long Broadway shows this season. Included in your sampler package is 5% off tickets, one free exchange and early access to all Broadway shows during the season.     

Create Your Own Package 

Choose shows from any series, except Starrlight Jazz Club and West Street Live, to make your three, five or seven show subscription package. The more shows you add in a Create Your Own package, the more you save. Three-show packages get $2 off each ticket, five-show packages get $3 off each ticket and seven-show packages get $5 off each ticket! 

This Classic Board Game Comes to Life in a Hilarious Whodunit, Clue!

We all know and love the iconic pieces of this timeless board game:  

Six wooden characters. Six miniature weapons. Nine rooms. One killer.  

---

Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.  

---

“It’s funny and frothy and light, the kind of breezy night at the theater that most audiences would kill for right now.”

— Entertainment Weekly

---

These characters, weapons and this beloved mystery come to life at Walton Arts Center as part of the Off-Dickson Series Nov. 7-9.  

Friday, Nov. 7 at 8 pm 

Saturday, Nov. 8 at 2 and 8 pm 

Sunday, Nov. 9 at 2 pm

A mansion, a murder and a mystery...what could go wrong? 

---

Complete the perfect night out by adding on a Clue themed cocktail class! Purchase a cocktail class for $45 or save with three or more classes for a discounted price of $39. Our experts will teach you to make two specialty drinks while you enjoy light appetizers and learn about each mouthwatering cocktail and its ingredients. Your mixologist will provide everything you need to create eye-catching craft cocktails. It’s a deliciously good time!    

Clue Themed Cocktail Classes: 

Friday, Nov. 7 at 6:30 pm 

Saturday, Nov. 8 at 6:30 pm 

---

Interested in more than one show this season? Three package options are on sale now:  

P&G Broadway Series  

This subscription includes six larger than life titles, including one global smash hit and five Arkansas premieres direct from Broadway! You’ll also get spectacular subscriber benefits including the same seats at every show and priority purchasing for five Broadway Bonus shows!  

Broadway Sample Package  

Build your perfect stack by selecting at least three performances from any of the week-long Broadway shows this season. Included in your sampler package is 5% off tickets, one free exchange and early access to all Broadway shows during the season.     

Create Your Own Package 

Choose shows from any series, except Starrlight Jazz Club and West Street Live, to make your three, five or seven show subscription package. The more shows you add in a Create Your Own package, the more you save. Three-show packages get $2 off each ticket, five-show packages get $3 off each ticket and seven-show packages get $5 off each ticket! 

Art of Wine: A Toast to Legacy, Community and the Arts

By Kent Starr 

Kent Starr - Photo courtesy of Market Watch Magazine

There was an event many years ago at Walton Arts Center called the Garden Party. As almost an afterthought, a single table was set up with eight to 10 wines, and patrons were offered a sample or two at this table – and from here, Art of Wine was born! From this humble beginning, Art of Wine has grown into an amazing event for Walton Arts Center and Northwest Arkansas, raising tens of thousands of dollars to support arts studies for school-aged children.  

Liquor World has been involved with Art of Wine from the beginning, and proudly supports our suppliers, distributors, the hundreds of volunteers involved, the media and the many school districts that provide access via school buses for the thousands of children that get to experience arts programs at Walton Arts Center each year, due in part to funds raised by Art of Wine.  

Billie Jo Starr and Helen Walton at the opening of Walton Arts Center in 1992.

In the 1980s, Billie Jo Starr and Helen Walton got together and set out to change the landscape of Dickson Street in Fayetteville and the entire Arkansas four-state region with a novel idea: to build a world-class arts center. With tremendous support from the Walton family, Billie Jo, the Starr family and the amazing outpouring from thousands of donors, the center became a reality and thrives today with hundreds of Broadway productions and concerts, in addition to the arts programs for children who arrive on bright yellow busses.   

My mom, Billie Jo, had a passion for seeing Walton Arts Center become a reality and believed that our community could support such an amazing entity. She also loved wine and watched Art of Wine grow from its humble beginnings to an upscale event, including the Reserve Room, that provides thousands of needed funds for arts programs. It was Billie Jo’s vision to present the arts to everyone. We are proud to be a part of that continued legacy. 

Billie Jo Starr

She had a deep passion for the enrichment of children through the arts.  It would always bring a smile to her face to see the big yellow school buses pull up to Walton Arts Center.  When she would see all those excited, smiling faces it brought her so much joy.  It gave her immense gratification to know that Art of Wine was a catalyst for exposing children to the arts and inspiring so many of them to pursue their dreams.  

Liquor World, with the great support of our distributors, has helped to keep Billie Jo’s passion and dreams alive each year at Art of Wine and it is certainly an honor to her legacy that Starr Theater was named accordingly. Our family is very proud of the drive that Billie Jo had for the arts and her legacy will live on forever.

---

Come one, come all! Art of Wine fundraiser returns for its 23rd year on Friday, July 11, and you are invited to sip, savor and step into something spectacular. This year, expect a circus of flavor, featuring bites from your favorite Northwest Arkansas restaurants, hundreds of curated wine samplings and innovative non-alcoholic options from local vendors. Raise your glass to a good cause – as always, all proceeds go to support arts education and programming for local students. Step right up and get your tickets now.

A Super-Sized Spectacular, Some Like it Hot Brings the Heat to Walton Arts Center!

This musical is coming in HOT! Winner of four Tony Awards®, including best choreography and best costumes, and the Grammy Award® for best musical theater album, Some Like it Hot is “A Super-Sized, All-Out Song-And-Dance Spectacular!” - The New York Times. 

Set in Chicago when Prohibition has everyone thirsty for a little excitement, Some Like it Hot is the “glorious, big, high-kicking” (Associated Press) story of two musicians forced to flee the Windy City after witnessing a mob hit. With gangsters hot on their heels, they catch a cross-country train for the life-chasing, life-changing trip of a lifetime. 

---

“A boisterous good time from start to finish!”

— Entertainment Weekly

---

Their cross-country journey brings them face to face with a dazzling singer with dreams of stardom, who captures one of their hearts, while the other catches the eye of a wealthy suitor set on finding true love. Still under disguise, they must find a way to untangle their messes and stay alive from the gangsters hot on their tail!   

And what a trip it is! With its irresistible combination of heart and laughs, song and dance, Some Like it Hot won more theater awards than any show in its season and was named best musical by the Drama Desk, The Drama League and the Outer Critics Circle. No wonder Deadline calls it “a tap-dancing, razzle-dazzling embrace of everything you love about musical theater.” 

Some Like it Hot features a book by Matthew López (The Inheritance) and Amber Ruffin (“The Amber Ruffin Show”), music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman (Hairspray). The musical is based on the classic MGM film Some Like It Hot, which has been named the “Funniest American Movie of All Time” by the American Film Institute.    

With Tony-winning choreography from director Casey Nicholaw (Disney’s Aladdin, Mean Girls, The Book of Mormon), and a “a door-slamming chase sequence that brings Scooby-Doo to the stage” (New York Magazine), Some Like It Hot brings the heat.  

---

Experience the extravagance and rebellion of Some Like it Hot with eight shows March 17-22! 

Tues-Thurs 7pm 

Thurs 1:30 pm

Fri-Sat 8pm

Sat-Sun 2pm

---

Two Broadway subscription options are on sale now: 

P&G Broadway Series 

This subscription includes six larger than life titles, including one global smash hit and five Arkansas premieres direct from Broadway! You’ll also get spectacular subscriber benefits including the same seats at every show and priority purchasing for five Broadway Bonus shows! 

Broadway Sample Package 

Build your perfect stack by selecting at least three performances from any of the week-long Broadway shows this season. Included in your sampler package is 5% off tickets, one free exchange and early access to all Broadway shows during the season.    

But wait, there's more! Join us for show themed cocktail classes and fully immerse yourself into a night at the theater. Purchase a cocktail class for $45 or save with three or more classes for a discounted price of $39. Our experts will teach you to make two specialty drinks while you enjoy light appetizers and learn about each delicious cocktail and its ingredients. Your mixologist will provide everything you need to create eye-catching craft cocktails. It’s a night of great memories and new friends! 

Single tickets go on sale later this summer!

A New Chance at Love in the Hit Musical & JULIET!

Is parting actually such sweet sorrow? Juliet might beg to differ. Broadway's most fun hit musical, & JULIET asks: what would happen next if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo?  

Created by the Emmy®-winning writer from “Schitt’s Creek,” this audience favorite flips the script on the greatest love story ever told. Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love—her way.   

Juliet’s new story bursts to life through a playlist of pop anthems as iconic as her name, including "Since U Been Gone‚" "Roar," "Baby One More Time," "Larger Than Life‚" "That’s The Way It Is“ and "Can't Stop the Feeling!"—all from the genius songwriter/producer behind more No. 1 hits than any other artist this century, Max Martin. Break free of the balcony scene and get into this romantic comedy that proves there’s life after Romeo. The only thing tragic would be missing it.    

---

Don’t miss this exciting twist to a timeless classic with eight shows of & JULIET May 26-31! 

Tues-Thurs 7pm 

Thurs 1:30 pm 

Fri-Sat 8pm 

Sat-Sun 2pm 

---

“Clever & rousing & show-stopping! & JULIET brings the audience to its feet.”

— The New York Times

---

Two Broadway subscription options are on sale now: 

P&G Broadway Series 

This subscription includes six larger than life titles, including one global smash hit and five Arkansas premieres direct from Broadway! You’ll also get spectacular subscriber benefits including the same seats at every show and priority purchasing for five Broadway Bonus shows! 

Broadway Sample Package 

Build your perfect stack by selecting at least three performances from any of the week-long Broadway shows this season. Included in your sampler package is 5% off tickets, one free exchange and early access to all Broadway shows during the season.    

But wait, there's more! Join us for show themed cocktail classes and fully immerse yourself into a night at the theater. Purchase a cocktail class for $45 or save with three or more classes for a discounted price of $39. Our experts will teach you to make two specialty drinks while you enjoy light appetizers and learn about each delicious cocktail and its ingredients. Your mixologist will provide everything you need to create eye-catching craft cocktails. It’s a night of great memories and new friends! 

Single tickets go on sale later this summer!

Live Music Subscriptions that Stir the Soul

In an atmosphere reminiscent of neighborhood listening rooms and nightclubs, West Street Live and Starrlight Jazz Club cater to true live music enthusiasts, bringing artists from a variety of genres to Walton Arts Center’s Starr Theater for intimate, relaxed concerts.  

The music and the artists are the focus of these series. The cabaret style setting allows patrons to connect with the musicians in performances like no other. Get access to all these amazing concerts with a West Street Live or Starrlight Jazz Club subscription package. Experience the exhilaration of live music, up close, the way it should be!  

---

 West Street Live

Celebrating its 10th anniversary season West Street Live, presented by Neal Pendergraft, hosts renowned bands, musicians and singer-songwriters performing a variety of genres from traditional roots music to immigrant folk songs.

The 1 Oz. Jig & Friends: A Tribute to The Last Waltz 

Friday, Sept. 19 

An all-star group of local and regional musicians, led by The 1 Oz. Jig, performs a tribute to The Band’s legendary 1976 farewell concert The Last Waltz. Just as in the original, this show will feature improvisations and appearances by guest musicians Rochelle Bradshaw, Candy Lee and Earl Cate among others. Take a load off and join the celebration of a transcendent era of American rock. 

---

Nashville Songwriters 

Thursday, Oct. 2 

• Keesy Timmer Notable contributions

  Yeah Boy (Kelsea Ballerini) 

  Cheap (Chris Janson) 

  Smoke on My Jacket (Zach John King) 

  Love and a Heartbreak (Hayden Coffman) 

• Adam craig notable contributions

  Close Your Eyes (Parmalee) 

  Take it Like a Man (Cody Johnson) 

  MIA in MIA (George Strait) 

  Whiskey Sour (Kane Brown) 

• adam james notable contributions

  Knowing You (Kenny Chesney) 

  Whiskey Bent (Cody Johnson/Jelly Roll) 

  Double Down (Cody Johnson) 

  Take Me out To The Ballgame (Luke Combs) 

Professional singer/songwriters Keesy Timmer, Adam Craig and Adam James have written songs for some of the biggest artists in Music City including Kelsea Ballerini, Chris Janson, George Strait, Kane Brown, Kenny Chesney and Jelly Roll, just to name a few. Spend an evening with these hitmakers as they sing your favorite hits and describe the backstories and personal experiences that shaped them.

---

The War and Treaty 

Wednesday, Nov. 5 

Founded in 2014 by the husband-and-wife duo Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter, The War and Treaty has emerged as one of the most electrifying new acts in American music. Along with nominations for Grammy® and CMA Awards, they won two Americana Music Awards and have received additional nominations and recognition from CMT Music Awards, Folk Alliance International, People’s Choice Country Awards, Country Music Hall of Fame, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry. 

---

Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives 

Thursday, Dec. 4 

While he’s too gracious to admit it himself, Marty Stuart is a living, breathing country-music legend. A Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician, Stuart has played alongside the masters, from Johnny Cash to Lester Flatt. Most importantly, Stuart continues to record and release keenly relevant music – songs that honor country’s rich legacy while advancing it into the future. Don’t miss this opportunity to see him in an “up close and personal” experience. 

---

Sunny Sweeney  

Friday, March 6 

The mastery of hole-in-the-wall venues, a major label stint and serious songwriting chops make Sunny Sweeney something of a rarity: an artist with barroom cred, mainstream validation and songs meaty enough to connect with any listener. Just as comfortable commanding a stadium stage on tour with Bob Seger as she is pouring her heart out from a listening room stool, this humble East Texas kid sings her own songs made up of equal parts wit, soul and hard truth.  

---

Mary Gauthier 

Saturday, May 16 

Grammy-nominated Mary Gauthier is one of the best songwriters of her generation, having written songs for Jimmy Buffett, Dolly Parton, Boy George, Blake Shelton, Tim McGraw and more. Since the release of her groundbreaking album Drag Queens in Limousines 25 years ago, Gauthier has brought together all kinds of folks from all walks of life with her deeply personal, yet paradoxically universal work.  

---

Starrlight Jazz Club 

With multiple Grammy® nominations between them, this season’s Starrlight Jazz club lineup includes some of the most influential jazz musicians on the scene today. 

André Mehmari 

Saturday, Sept. 20 

To music lovers and critics in Brazil, André Mehmari is a musical wonder and a source of national pride. All the world’s songbooks and literature are his realm – a borderless inspiration expressed in his compositions and improvisations. The latter takes special form in his solo piano performances where he invites audience suggestions, which he spins into an improvised suite. Mehmari invites you to come to the concert with the music you love and offers it for the creation of these one-time-only but forever-memorable creations.  

---

Tuck and Patti 

Friday, Oct. 3 

For over 45 years, this unique vocal and guitar duo has cast its passionate musical spell worldwide, capturing the hearts of lovers, the respect of jazz buffs and the jaw-dropping awe of guitarists and singers. They have appearing at times alongside Miles Davis, Count Basie, George Benson, Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock and many others and have long been regarded by musicians and critics as the standard for a genre-defying, improvising musical duo.  

---

Camille ThurmaN quartet

Friday, Oct. 24 

Camille Thurman is an accomplished composer, esteemed saxophonist, exquisite vocalist and unique interpreter of the jazz tradition. Her distinct musical approach to classic and original repertoire highlights her craft as a powerhouse singer and instrumentalist. She has headlined notable concert venues and jazz festivals worldwide – including the Kennedy Center, The Library of Congress and the Rose Theater – and has amassed several distinctive honors, including an NAACP Image Award nomination, a Downbeat Magazine’s Critics Poll nomination and two ASCAP Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composers Awards.  

---

Mike Stern Band with Leni Stern, Bob Franceschini, Jimmy Haslip & Steve Pruit 

Saturday, Nov. 15

One of the great jazz guitarists of his generation, Mike Stern has the unique ability to play with the finesse and lyricism of Jim Hall, the driving swing of Wes Montgomery and the turbulent, overdriven attack of Jimi Hendrix. Growing up, Stern revered all three of those guitar immortals, along with such potent blues guitarists as Albert and B.B. King. Aspects of those seminal influences can be heard in his playing on the 18 recordings he has released as a leader or in his acclaimed sideman work for Miles Davis, Billy Cobham, the Brecker Brothers, Jaco Pastorius, Steps Ahead, David Sanborn; Blood, Sweat & Tears; Joe Henderson and the all-star Four Generations of Miles band.

---

Michael Mayo 

Saturday, Feb. 21 

Michael Mayo leans on his intuition as a vocalist, composer, songwriter and arranger. He stretches his voice through layers of heavenly harmonizing, hard-hitting beatboxing and heartfelt crooning without filter or pretense. This allows his voice to transmit raw emotion above an ever-evolving backdrop of jazz, neo-soul and R&B. He unveiled his full-length debut, Bones, in 2021 and cumulatively generated millions of streams. JAZZIZ raves, “Mayo has developed his own lush, neo-soul sound that adroitly showcases his clear tenor, which glides over luxuriant clouds of his multi-tracked vocals.”  

---

African Rhythms Alumni Quartet: A Tribute to Randy Weston 

Friday, March 13 

From Brooklyn to Rabat and Morocco, the late pianist, composer and community ambassador Randy Weston integrated popular sounds and folkloric traditions from across the African continent into his own legendary performances with fellow artists from across the world. Saxophonist, composer and multi-instrumentalist T.K. Blue leads his acclaimed African Rhythms Alumni Quartet in celebration of the late artist who created new and international pathways for artistic collaboration and communion. 

---

Subscriptions are now available for West Street Live and Starrlight Jazz Club. All performances begin at 7:30 pm. Come for the live music, stay for the cozy atmosphere and leave with a once-in-a-lifetime story! 

Subscriptions for West Street Live and Starrlight Jazz Club can be purchased by calling 479.443.5600, by visiting waltonartscenter.org or in-person at the box office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm. 

Sip and Savor a Circus of Flavor at Art of Wine

Come one, come all! Step into a world under the big top at Walton Arts Center’s Art of Wine. Sip and savor a circus of flavor, featuring nationally recognized wines and sample bites from Northwest Arkansas favorites on Friday, July 11 at 8 pm. In its 23rd year, Art of Wine continues to be a crowd favorite among Arkansans and visitors from across the country. Raise your glass to a good cause – all proceeds go to support arts education and programming for local students – while enjoying an extravagant grown-up only night out, ages 21+! 

General admissions tickets, $95 each, welcome guests into a world of splendor featuring bites from more than 25 restaurants, hundreds of curated wine samplings and innovative non-alcoholic options all from local venders. 

Elevate your experience with a Reserve Room ticket. This space gives true wine aficionados an exclusive experience. In addition to the general admission spaces, you ‘ll have a dedicated entrance and access to a private Reserve Room featuring a special selection of wines and additional restaurant options. Reserve Room tickets are $225.  

Be the first to taste the collection of bites and wines with an Express Pass. Add this $25 option to a Reserve Room or general admissions ticket and get early entry at 7:30 pm and be the first to sample your favorite vintages.  

All guests can browse and purchase themed Art of Wine merch designed by local screen-printing studio Hi-Fin and guaranteed to captivate any audience. Local artists will also contribute to this indulgent, immersive experience with tin type photos and tarot card readings.  

Reminisce on the night of grandeur! Sip from limited edition commemorative glassware featuring the themes and motifs of the evening. Have the first edition of these glasses and collect them year after year! 

Attendees will enjoy more than just a unique curation of wine and hors d’oeuvres, knowing that all proceeds from Art of Wine directly support Walton Arts Center’s arts education initiatives. Donations expand access to the arts in Northwest Arkansas, ensuring over 25,000 students and educators experience live performances annually, many for the first time, at no cost.  

Indulge in hundreds of wines, sample the flavors of top local restaurants and enjoy local entertainment. Don’t balance on the tightrope, Art of Wine is the summer event you do not want to miss.  

Tickets 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. You must be 21 or older to purchase tickets.    

Show Spotlight: Kimberly Akimbo is Deeply Empathetic and Irresistibly Funny

A new musical about growing up and growing old – in no particular order. Kimberly Akimbo is the winner of five 2023 Tony Awards® including best musical.  

“PROFOUNDLY FUNNY AND DEEPLY MOVING.”

- The New York TImes

Kimberly is about to turn 16 and recently moved with her family to a new town in suburban New Jersey. In this “howlingly funny heartbreaker of a show” (The New Yorker), Kim is forced to navigate family dysfunction, a rare genetic condition, her first crush … and possible felony charges. Ever the optimist, she is determined to find happiness against all odds and embark on a great adventure.   

Featuring Tony Award-winning book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire (Shrek), a Tony Award-winning score by Jeanine Tesori (Fun Home), choreography by Danny Mefford (Dear Evan Hansen) and direction by Tony-nominated director Jessica Stone (Water for Elephants, also on our season) Kimberly Akimbo will leave you heart-warmed and amused.  

---

Kimberly Akimbo

“What struck me about Kimberly Akimbo was the contrast between the essence and the identity of the characters,” Tesori, award-winning composer of Kimberly Akimbo said. “There’s a significant difference between who these characters are and how the world perceives them. This gap often gives rise to the need to sing. In Kimberly Akimbo, everyone is misunderstood and ill-equipped to deal with their circumstances. Collaborating with the playwright was invaluable because he provided the foundation, allowing me to ask, ‘What were you thinking when you wrote this?’ Initially, he wrote from a young perspective, similar to Kimberly’s. But when we revisited the material, we approached it from the vantage point of parents and middle-aged individuals. This evolution in perspective was fascinating. The characters sing from a place of great desire, loss and hope.” 

A musical full of memorable performances that remind audiences of the preciousness of time. Discover why Hollywood Reporter coins Kimberly Akimbo “your new favorite musical” with eight shows, December 9-14 at Walton Arts Center.  

Subscribe now to get the best seats at the best prices to this and five additional blockbuster shows in the 2025-26 season!  

Broadway Packages for Busy People

Do you love Broadway but need a more flexible option to see your favorite shows at Walton Arts Center? A Broadway Sampler Package is perfect for you. Pick the Broadway shows you want to see in the 2025-26 season, and you can select different performances and vary the number of tickets per show. It is truly customizable!   

Build your perfect stack by selecting at least three performances from any of the week-long Broadway shows this season. Included in your sampler package is 5% off tickets, one free exchange and early access to all Broadway shows during the season and Broadway cocktail classes.  

Broadway Sampler Packages are great for people who tend to purchase tickets to multiple Broadway shows in a season but need a more adaptable option than a full subscription package. Curate your package to fit your schedule, budget, and taste while receiving great benefits and discounts.  

---

PRO TIP: Do you have loved ones who adore watching Broadway shows? Broadway Sampler Packages are a great way to get a head start on gifts for the upcoming holiday season! Get tickets to three or more shows and give them as gifts throughout the year. There’s something for everyone! 

---

Get started today when you choose three or more performances from the following shows. 

• A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical, Oct. 14-19 

• Kimberly Akimbo, Dec. 9-14 

• Disney’s Beauty and The Beast Feb. 3-8 

• Water for Elephants, Feb. 24 – March 1 

• Some Like it Hot, March 17-22 

• Mamma Mia!, April 21-26 

• & Juliet, May 26-31 

• Moulin Rouge! The Musical July 8-12 

With the purchase of a Broadway Sampler Package, you’ll gain early access to all of the Broadway cocktail classes and the following shows. Pick as many or as few as you want! 

• Clue Nov. 7-9 

• Mrs. Doubtfire Dec. 19-21 

• Meredith Willson’s The Music Man Jan. 16-18 

---

Not sure where to start with your stack? Here are some suggested package options! 

Mamma Mia!

Songs You’ll Recognize Package 

• A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical 

• Moulin Rouge! The Musical 

• & Juliet 

Add-On: Disney’s Beauty and The Beast and Mamma Mia! 

---

Disney’s Beauty and The Beast

Fun for the Whole Family Package 

• Disney’s Beauty and The Beast 

• Mamma Mia! 

• & Juliet 

Add-On: The Music Man and Some Like It Hot 

---

& Juliet

Grab Your Girls Package 

• Moulin Rouge! The Musical 

• Mamma Mia! 

• Kimberly Akimbo 

Add-On: & Juliet and Water for Elephants 

---

Moulin Rouge! The Musical

Here for the Drama Package 

• Some Like It Hot 

• Moulin Rouge! The Musical 

• & Juliet 

Add-On: Clue and Mamma Mia! 

---

Kimberly Akimbo

Award-Winning Performances Package 

• A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical  

• Kimberly Akimbo  

• Water For Elephants  

Add-On: The Music Man and Some Like It Hot 

---

Some Like It Hot

Hey! I Loved that Movie Package 

• Some Like It Hot 

• Moulin Rouge! The Musical 

• Mamma Mia! 

Add-On: CLUE and Mrs. Doubtfire 

---

Purchase a Broadway Sampler Package in-person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm, by calling the subscriber concierge at 479.571.2785 weekdays 10 am to 5 pm, or online now.  

Single tickets to all Broadway and other shows in the 2025-26 season will be available later this summer. Full Broadway subscription packages are also still available if you want to see all shows during the Procter & Gamble Broadway season.  

Fan-Favorite Dover Quartet Returns with Edgar Meyer

You know them and you love them – Grammy®-nominated Dover Quartet is teaming up with Grammy-nominated composer and bassist Edgar Meyer for an evening of exquisite chamber music. This returning favorite of Artosphere Arkansas’ Arts + Nature Festival will take the stage on Saturday, May 17 at 8 pm.  

It’s a night of world-class music performed by one of the greatest string quartets of this century according to the BBC ,and Meyer, hailed by The New Yorker as “the most remarkable virtuoso in the relatively un-chronicled history of his instrument.”   

The Dover Quartet is the Penelope P. Watkins Ensemble in Residence at the Curtis Institute of Music and holds additional residencies at Northwestern University and the Artosphere festival. The group’s awards include a stunning sweep of all prizes at the 2013 Banff International String Quartet Competition, grand and first prizes at the Fischoff Chamber Music Competition and prizes at the Wigmore Hall International String Quartet Competition.  

The Dover Quartet’s Grammy-nominated recordings include its highly acclaimed three-volume recording, Beethoven Complete String Quartets (Cedille Records), which was hailed as “meticulously balanced, technically clean-as-a-whistle and intonationally immaculate” (The Strad) and The Schumann Quartets (Azica Records).  

Meyer’s uniqueness in the field was recognized when he became the only bassist to be awarded the Avery Fisher Prize in addition to a MacArthur Award. He was honored with his sixth and seventh Grammy Awards this year for the album As We Speak with Béla Fleck, Zakir Hussain, Rakesh Chaurasia and Meyer, released in May 2023. Meyer last performed at Walton Arts Center in November 2023 with Fleck, Hussain and Chaurasia.   

Tickets are $10 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.    

Learn More About Artosphere! 
Artosphere celebrates art, music and nature by spotlighting artists and performers from around the world who are inspired by nature. The festival also provides a creative framework for the community to discuss issues of sustainability and environmental awareness.  

The multi-week festival features a mix of free and low-cost events, including some special performances as well as concerts in sacred spaces and special places throughout the region. 

Fayetteville Artosphere Events You Will Love!

Walton Arts Center is bringing a mix of free and low-cost events and performances right to your backyard as part of the annual Artosphere: Arkansas’ Arts + Nature Festival May 1-18.  The multi-week festival features some special performances as well as concerts in sacred spaces throughout the region, including several events in Fayetteville.  

Artosphere celebrates art, music and nature by spotlighting artists and performers from around the world who are inspired by nature. The festival also provides a creative framework for the community to discuss issues of sustainability and environmental awareness.    

Inspired by local herbal and botanical ingredients, join us for Cocktails in the Garden on Saturday, May 3 at 4 pm and learn how to make two nature-themed cocktails while enjoying light snacks. This class is part of the Artosphere Arts + Nature Festival and will take place outdoors in the beautiful Bradberry Rose Garden. Must be 21 or older to participate and tickets are $45. 

Explore a buzzing, humming hive of activity as human-sized bees with Polyglot Theatre’s Bees at Fayetteville Public Library. Watch as these bees busy themselves in the community creation alongside children who can transform into bees as they play. Inspired by the mysterious life and work of bees, this re-imagining of public space involves the slow uncovering of an intricate unseen world.   Bees is free and open to the public at 9:30 am and 11 am on Wednesday, May 14, 4 pm on Thursday, May 15 and at 2 pm on Friday, May 16. Bees will also make an appearance at Family Arts in the Park on Saturday, May 17 at Luther George Park in Springdale, along with food trucks, a face painter and live music.  

Friends and songwriting partners, Trout Fishing in America’s Keith Grimwood and Ezra are performing as part of Artosphere on Tuesday, May 6 at 6:30 pm. This nationally touring duo has traveled over a million miles and performed in all 50 states, parts of Canada and Europe. They write music for people who take their fun seriously, and their dynamic sound, relatable lyrics and unique stage presence offer something for everyone. Register for free online, bring your lawn chairs and blankets and join us for a family-friendly concert on BGO’s Great Lawn.   

Artosphere’s signature event is back with live art, music and activities for kids and families on Friday, May 9! The Upper and 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, Fay Jones Woods and the newly constructed public space, Upper Ramble. Trail Mix is a free event that features Backyard Bugs, Sarah Reed and Michael Hannah woodwind duo, Fayetteville High School Steel Pan Band, Dandelion Heart, University of Arkansas World Music Ensemble, energetic musical group Squonk and entertainers from Inspyral Circus.     

With both bird watching and live music, Taking Flight: Woodwind Quartet and Bird Watching on Friday, May 16 at 6 pm emphasizes meaningful observation and mindfulness. NWA Land Trust will lead guided bird watching, providing binoculars to the first 40 people who register. Local musicians will perform Haydn's String quartet in C major Opus 33 No. 3 "The Bird."   

To see a full lineup of Artosphere events, including live music and shows for kids, please visit waltonartscenter.org/artosphere. Except where noted below, additional information, tickets or reservations for these events are available now at artospherefestival.org, by calling 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am-5 pm or in person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am-2 pm.  

10 Questions with 10x10 Performers Nimbus Dance

Presented as part of Artosphere, Arkansas’ Arts + Nature Festival, and the 10x10 Arts Series, Nimbus Dance will bridge the gap between world-class dance performances and community engagement when they take the stage at Walton Arts Center on Friday, May 9 at 8 pm. Tickets are only $10. 

Nimbus Dance presents work that challenges, speaks to and elevates the core beliefs of its diverse audience. Founded in 2005 by visionary artistic director Samuel Pott (former soloist with Martha Graham Dance Company), Nimbus stands at the forefront of excellence in the arts, civic engagement and equitable impact.   

Arkansas Arts Academy dance students will join the dance company on stage and perform as the community cast for Samuel Pott's piece Spring. The piece is a contemporary retelling of Martha Graham's original work Appalachian Spring, and it uses the same Aaron Copland score.    

To prepare for the performances Arkansas Arts Academy dancers under the training of Rebecca Canaan will rehearse with Nimbus Dance members May 5 – 9. The students will perform with the professional dance company for the matinee Classroom Series show and for the public performance, both on Friday, May 9.  

Following the Classroom Series performance, members of Nimbus Dance will also provide a talkback for Walton Arts Center’s volunteer luncheon on Friday, May 9 and lead a mini dance workshop for the volunteers.    

Before their breathtaking performance, we asked members of the dance company a few questions to better understand their work. 

What can audiences expect when they come see this performance? 
Audiences can expect an emotionally rich and physically powerful experience, with dance that speaks directly to the human condition. Whether it’s hope, struggle, joy or reflection,  Nimbus performances carry deeply resonant stories, supported by captivating music, compelling movement and a company of dancers who love sharing their art with new communities. 
 
From where do you draw inspiration for your art? 
Inspiration comes from all corners of life — nature, history, personal experiences, music, film and the people we meet. Some of us draw from faith, some from family and many from the mentors and choreographers who have paved the way. The constant is this – we’re always observing, feeling and absorbing, then translating those emotions into movement. 
 
What drew you to this performance field? 
Each of us has a unique origin story, but common threads emerge: the magic of moving to music, the thrill of communicating without words, the blend of athleticism and artistry. For some, it started by watching a sibling dance or trying to overcome shyness. For others, it was the irresistible pull of rhythm and story. What keeps us here is the community we build and the voices we elevate through our work. 

Is there a story behind how you chose your name? 

For Nimbus' first performance in 2005, when we were just a pick-up group of dancers, we urgently needed to come up with a name.  We thought about the ways that art can function like a cloud, altering an environment in an intangible way. So, Nimbus has a double meaning – a rain cloud, which I liked because rain brings fertility to the land, and it refers to a halo or aura which made me think of the magical quality of a performer onstage under theater lights.  
 
Do you have any pre-show rituals or warm-ups? 
Right before the curtain rises, we blast “Ain’t Nobody” by Chaka Khan and do ab workouts (yes, planks included). It’s a ritual that grounds us individually and bonds us as a company. Some of us also pray, stretch or do coordination drills, and one dancer never steps on stage without brushing their teeth! 
 
Pick 5 words that best describe your work: 
Human. Raw. Hopeful. Narrative-driven. Expressive. 
 
What is the best advice that you have been given? 
“Keep it simple.”  

“You have nothing to prove, but everything to share.”  

“Find a good support system and use it.” 
 
What is your favorite part of the show to perform? 
Favorites include Spring, with its lush orchestral score and strong storytelling and the trio from The New Tide, where three women whirl through a fast-paced, elegant section inspired by a Gordon Parks photograph. Whether it’s an intimate duet or a sweeping ensemble piece, each moment brings its own thrill. 
 
What are some unique or memorable experiences you’ve had while traveling to perform? 
We’ve performed everywhere from Vermont to Tanglewood to Arkansas, and each tour brings unforgettable moments like dressing up for Halloween as Dalmatians with our director as Cruella de Vil, or dancing alongside a full symphony orchestra just a few feet away. The most memorable part? Connecting with other artists and communities and sometimes even scientists or musicians who find inspiration in our work. 
 
What songs, artists or genres of music are you currently listening to? 
Our tastes are as eclectic as our choreography, from Lady Gaga to Jason Mraz, from gospel to indie rock. Some of us are spinning Jeff Buckley, Hippo Campus, Jessie Ware and even teaching choreography to the sounds of Theo Katzman and Jim Croce. Music is both our fuel and our foundation. 

Tickets to this amazing dance performance 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.

Looking for Community? Find it through Volunteering!

By Quinette Rogers, box office ticketing representative and volunteer programs assistant 

---

Northwest Arkansas is experiencing rapid population growth, drawing new residents from across the country thanks to its vibrant job market, quality of life and access to outdoor recreation. Moving to a new place often comes with the challenge of building social connections and finding a sense of belonging, but with the volunteer opportunities at Walton Arts Center, you can join a community of kind, theater-loving individuals. 

For those passionate about the arts, Walton Arts Center offers a welcoming space to engage with others, give back to the community and support the region’s growing cultural and arts scene. The regional performing arts center serves as both an artistic hub and a community gathering place, making it an ideal space for those looking to become more involved in their new home. Whether assisting patrons as an usher, helping with educational outreach programs or supporting community events, volunteers play a crucial role in making the arts fun and accessible to all. 

Research shows that volunteering fosters social connections and improves mental well-being. A study by the Mayo Clinic found that individuals who volunteer regularly report lower levels of stress and a greater sense of purpose. Additionally, a University of Maryland study indicated that volunteers are 24.4% more likely to develop strong community ties compared to non-volunteers. Engaging in volunteer work at a place like Walton Arts Center not only benefits the organization but also enhances personal fulfillment and a sense of belonging for those who participate. 

Volunteer Appreciation Night / 2024

Volunteering is also an opportunity to become part of something bigger. Volunteers have the chance to meet fellow arts enthusiasts, interact with performers and gain hands-on experience in event coordination and customer service. There are also appreciation events for volunteers, to celebrate all they do for the organization. Many volunteers have shared that their involvement has led to long-lasting friendships, professional networking opportunities and a deeper appreciation for our region.  

Volunteering also strengthens the entire community. By contributing time and effort, volunteers help sustain cultural programs that educate, entertain and bring people of all ages together. From first graders to retirees, the arts unify this diverse community and foster grow, creativity and engagement in Northwest Arkansas.  

Volunteers play a critical role in mission-critical programs – including our Classroom Series which welcomes thousands of local schoolchildren to our venue each year for free – bridging gaps in arts accessibility for underserved populations.  

As Arkansas continues to grow, finding ways to connect through community service is more important than ever. Walton Arts Center offers a unique space where new residents can form lasting relationships while enriching the cultural fabric of the region. Whether you’re passionate about the arts or simply looking for a way to meet new people, volunteering at Walton Arts Center is a rewarding way to become part of the Northwest Arkansas community. 

Interested individuals can click the link below to learn more!