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 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 

  • Yeah Boy (Kelsea Ballerini) 

    Cheap (Chris Janson) 

    Smoke on My Jacket (Zach John King) 

    Love and a Heartbreak (Hayden Coffman) 

  • Close Your Eyes (Parmalee) 

    Take it Like a Man (Cody Johnson) 

    MIA in MIA (George Strait) 

    Whiskey Sour (Kane Brown) 

  • 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! 

  • 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 Proctor & 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! 

Enjoy Free Artosphere Events May 1-18

Walton Arts Center is bringing a mix of free and low-cost events and performances to NWA as part of the annual Artosphere: Arkansas’ Arts + Nature Festival May 1-18.    

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. Several Artosphere favorites are back this year including Trail Mix, Tunes on the Trail, Trout Fishing in America as well as free workshops and interactive art experiences.   

Returning this year, experience music, nature and movement collide in this interactive listening experience, Tunes on the Trail! Throughout May, you can enjoy a curated playlist featuring some of the Artosphere Festival Orchestra’s most beloved performances from the past 11 seasons as you use one of Northwest Arkansas’s trail systems listed below. Experience art in nature by scanning the QR code on the signage placed at each trailhead.   

Trout Fishing in America

Explore a buzzing, humming hive of activity as human-sized bees at Fayetteville Public Library May 14 –16. 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.   

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. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and join us for a free family-friendly concert on BGO’s Great Lawn.   

Nimbus Dance

Artosphere’s signature event features live art, music and activities for kids and families! 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.    

Just after Trail Mix, join us back at Walton Arts Center for Nimbus Dance. This group bridges the gap between world-class performances and community engagement by presenting work that challenges while also speaking to and elevating the core beliefs of its diverse audience. Don’t miss this iconic performance on Friday, May 9 at 8 pm. Tickets are only $10! 

You won’t want to miss the rest of our free Artosphere events like Railyard Live, Yoga on the Mountain, Recycled Workshops with Shannon Green, Music on the Glade and many more! 

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. 

Celebrate Arkansas' Brightest Up-and-Coming Musical Theater Stars

Join us for the inaugural Walton Arts Center Diamond Awards Ceremony, a showcase of the region’s high school musical theater talent, on Sunday, May 4 at 4 pm.  

Arkansas Arts Academy - Alice By Heart

The award showcase will feature performances by Diamond Award finalists and select cast members from the productions Awards will be presented for best actor, actress, supporting performers and ensemble performance. A Sparkle Award, recognizing an outstanding educator, will also be presented during the ceremony.  Tickets are just $10.   

Ten high school theater programs that produced full-length musicals are participating in the Diamond Awards. Throughout the school year, industry professionals have been adjudicating students’ performances in these productions.  

The schools and their qualifying musical productions are:  

Fort Smith Southside/Northside High School – Tuck Everlasting

Alma High School - Newsies   

Arkansas Arts Academy – Alice By Heart  

Bentonville High School – SpongeBob SquarePants the Musical   

Bentonville West High School – The Addams Family School Edition   

Clarksville High School – Matilda the Musical   

Farmington High School – The Addams Family   

Fayetteville High School - Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella   

Siloam Springs High School – Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella  

Fort Smith Southside/Northside High School – Tuck Everlasting  

Siloam Springs High School – Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella  

Van Buren High School – The Lightning Thief  

Finalists for the Diamond Awards and the Sparkle Award will be announced on Monday, April 28. 

Modeled after Broadway’s Tony Awards®, Walton Arts Center’s Diamond Awards recognizes achievement and excellence in musical theater among local high school students.  

The Diamond Awards qualify the best actress and actor winners to receive training from Broadway professionals and compete alongside nominees from 54 other regional high school musical theater awards competitions in New York City at the Broadway League Foundation’s National High School Musical Theatre Awards®, “The Jimmy Awards®" this summer. Walton Arts Center will cover the cost of the trip for the two Diamond Awards winners.    

Tickets for the Diamond Award Ceremony 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.  

Feel the Beat with Havana Hop

Havana Hop follows young Yeila who dreams of being a superstar, but her lack of confidence gives her awful stage fright. With advice from her mother and mentors, Yeila begins to understand her Cuban roots and build her confidence. In this dynamic, multi-cultural show, the audience gets to dance along as one actress portrays three generations of lively women and infuses a salsa-style flair into hip-hop.   

This powerful one-woman show by Paige Hernandez is presented on Monday, May 12 at 7 pm as part of the annual Artosphere Arts + Nature Festival. This is a fun show for young kids, and tickets are just $10. 

The performance is written, choreographed and performed by Hernandez, a multidisciplinary artist who is critically acclaimed as a performer, director, choreographer and playwright. As an AEA equity actress, Hernandez has performed on many stages throughout the country. She has collaborated with the Lincoln Center and has been commissioned by several companies including the National New Play Network, the Smithsonian, The Kennedy Center, La Jolla Playhouse and the Glimmerglass Festival.   

She is the recipient of an individual artist award from the Maryland State Arts Council as well as four Helen Hayes nominations for choreography, directing and performance. Hernandez has also been named a classroom hero by The Huffington Post, a citizen artist fellow with the Kennedy Center, 40 under 40 by The Washington Post and one of six theater workers you should know by American Theatre Magazine.   

Her work on inclusive spaces and theater-based trauma-informed practices has received international acclaim and garnered her such acknowledgement as the inaugural Victor Sharga leadership award and recognition as a repeat keynote speaker and presenter for Disney.   

Hernandez was recently named one of the top five most produced artists in theater for young audiences. She is elated to be the associate artistic director of Everyman Theatre in her hometown of Baltimore. With her company B-FLY ENTERTAINMENT, Hernandez continues to develop and tour original work internationally.  

This is a show that the kiddos will love! 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.

Spend Your Evening With Comedy Legend David Sedaris

A returning Northwest Arkansas favorite, David Sedaris has charmed audiences with his sometimes neurotic and seemingly mundane, yet profound storytelling for more than 25 years. Don’t miss your chance to see him live on Thursday, April 24 at 7 pm. 

 Beloved for his personal essays, books, short stories and NPR segments, the three-time Grammy Award® nominee’s material isn’t always what you would expect. His anecdotes are riddled with strange addictions, unbelievable job experiences and his eccentric family, but it’s his droll and conversational style that makes him one of the greatest humorists writing today. 

“When you’re walking on that edge, there’s a certain feeling you get, it’s a thrill. I don’t mean trying to shock people just for the sake of it,” Sedaris explained in an interview with The Guardian. “I mean you’re doing something you think is funny, but you’re just not sure how [it will pan out].” 

Sedaris is the author of Barrel Fever, Holidays on Ice, Naked, Me Talk Pretty One Day, Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim, When You Are Engulfed in Flames, Let’s Explore Diabetes with Owls and Calypso, which was a Washington Post best book of the year. He is the author of Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: A Modest Bestiary, a collection of fables with illustrations by Ian Falconer. 

The first volume of his diaries Theft By Finding: Diaries (1977-2002) was a New York Times best-selling book. As a companion piece to the book, Jeffrey Jenkins published and edited an art book of Sedaris’s diary covers, entitled David Sedaris Diaries: A Visual Compendium. The second volume of his diaries, A Carnival of Snackery: Diaries (2003-2020) was also a New York Times bestseller and the audiobook was selected as part of Apple’s best audiobooks of the year for 2021. His book, Happy-Go-Lucky, debuted at No. 1 on the New York Times best-seller list.   

Tickets are $55 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. 

Add a Little Magic to Your Night Out

Following a decade touring the world as one of the most successful magic shows in history, Champions of Magic is back with an explosive, new performance featuring thrilling and mind-bending illusions. You don’t want to miss this incredible show coming to Walton Arts Center on Wednesday, April 23 at 7 pm.  

Fusing their skills in grand-scale magic, a flair for spectacle and undeniable showmanship, this interactive, high-energy show is sure to entertain the entire family. Combining their signature humor with groundbreaking magic, the world’s only team of illusionists present a brand-new production unlike anything that has come before.  

Champions Of Magic showcases leading magicians and illusionists, Young & Strange, Liberty Larson and Fernando Velasco, who have captivated audiences worldwide and bring a unique blend of magic, creativity and mastery that promises to leave audiences spellbound.  

Richard Young and Sam Strange began their magical journey at eight years old, bonding over a shared love of magic and creating Las Vegas-style illusions from cardboard and tape. With little money, they innovated, crafting original illusions and magic tricks. They soon became one of the most unique illusion acts in the world. Their innovative illusions and live shows have taken them to prime-time television, London’s West End and the world’s biggest stages.  

Liberty has been surrounded by magic her entire life. She is a fourth-generation magician of the Larsen family, the creators of The Magic Castle in Hollywood and founders of Genii Magazine and the Academy of Magical Arts. Larsen has performed on stages across land and sea, particularly in Hollywood’s most exclusive secret venues, leaving an effect on her audiences that is distinct, imaginative and bewitching.  

From a very young age, Velasco got an inside look into the world of illusion through his father’s job at the Magic Castle. Mentored by some of America’s leading illusionists, he quickly developed his unique style, winning accolades from the magic community. At 26, Velasco is pushing the boundaries of escapology. In 2017, he became the youngest performer to present his version of "Houdini’s Water Torture Cell," escaping handcuffed and padlocked from a sealed six-foot tank of water.  

Tickets are $39 - $82 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. 

Escape the Ordinary with Terrapin Puppet Theatre: The Paper Escaper

Benny, the plucky puppet protagonist in The Paper Escaper, knows they are destined for greater things than a simple pop-up book. But in a world that’s trying to squash Benny between its pages – from a wily dancing fire to a disillusioned illustrator – Benny will need the help of a new friend to achieve their dreams. Don’t miss your chance to see Benny’s journey on Thursday, April 24 at 6 pm.  

This bright puppetry work from Terrapin tells a story of determination, friendship and the power of following your own path. The non-verbal storytelling is suited to audiences diverse in age, language and background. Remount director of The Paper Escaper, Davina Wright, told The Mercury that the production combines “fantastical elements” with a storyline everyone can enjoy. “It’s a beautiful story about courage and a child finding their own way in the world outside of their normal day to day life.” 

Terrapin Puppet Theatre puts what matters most in motion. Their purpose is to make lives better, shift realities and create connections and they have been doing it for over 40 years. Terrapin brings contemporary artists and audiences together with one of the oldest artforms in the world, puppetry.  

Writer of The Paper Escaper, Gita Bezard, told ArtsHub that when writing for puppets in a visual world, “it is all action.” “There are no lengthy monologues to explain how the characters feel. We have to see it. They always have to be doing something and pushing the story ahead. Writing for puppetry means there is a greater collaboration between the writer, the design team and the director. There is so much room for all the elements within the story and everyone gets to put their own beautiful, creative flavor into the story.” 

Working with writers, designers, performers, composers, inventors, game-makers and other artists, Terrapin forms and re-forms creative teams in new ways for new art projects. With an in-house workshop where technical knowledge and artistry are combined, character design, world building and deep storytelling is born. Terrapin’s skilled network of makers work sustainably to build anything from shadow puppets to southern right whales to tiny, shimmering birds. 

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 to Make Your Own Puppet!

Five stars for our Fantastic Volunteer Crew

The reviews are in, and our volunteers are the best in Northwest Arkansas!  

Volunteers help with nearly every aspect of the work we do at Walton Arts Center, from taking your tickets and helping you find your seat to stuffing programs into this magazine to helping with administrative tasks and so much more. They provide thousands of hours of service every year and we couldn’t operate without them! In the words of our director of Facilities Tom Debari, volunteers are “the glue of this performing arts center!” 

But you don’t have to take our word for it – here are some stories shared by patrons about our volunteers going above and beyond! 

“My three-year-old son has autism and we went into the theater a few times, but it seemed to upset him so he and I spent most our time outside of the theater,” says Mary Wilson, who attended Bluey’s Big Play with her family. “The volunteers and staff were so kind to us the entire time. Someone showed us to the sensory area, someone brought him pencils and paper to draw on ... they even let him touch the big balloon balls used for the end of the show before they brought them into the theater! He may not have sat through the whole show, but he had a great time thanks to the wonderful ushers and staff. I wanted to reach out with sincere thanks for everyone who worked in the lobby that day – everyone was so kind and so understanding of my son’s needs.” 

“This volunteer at Walton Arts Center, Peggy, did the sweetest thing for me, a total stranger, last night,” says patron Bobbi Austin. “I had to step out during the first act of Mean Girls the Musical to do some over-the-phone-parenting (of which she had to hear every stern word). She reassured me that she was a mom and remembers those days and calmed me down enough to go back in and enjoy the musical. While we talked, she was crocheting something and explained that it was a dishtowel that she gives out to friends and family every year for Christmas. After the play was over, she found me in the crowd and gave me the dishtowel she had been working on during our conversation. It might be the best gift I receive this year – how kind and thoughtful!”  

If you are interested in joining this stellar volunteer team and creating great experiences for patrons, students, teachers, donors and staff, please visit waltonartscenter.org/volunteer. 

And, when you come to see a show during Volunteer Appreciation Month, you can leave your own note of appreciation! All month long in April, you can write down a special thanks or a memory for a volunteer on Post-it and put it on the displays in our lobby.  

Meet Three of the Aca-Awesome Teams Competing at VoiceJam Part II

The annual VoiceJam A Cappella Competition on April 5 brings the best a cappella groups from across the country to compete at Walton Arts Center.  We asked each of the six competitors a few questions to learn more about them! Get to know three of these competitors: Final Measure, Decibelles and Remedy. 

Missed the first installment of this blog? Check it out here! 

Tickets to The Edge Effect concert and the VoiceJam Competition are on sale now. Purchase a combo ticket for just $29 and you can see both shows. 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.  

Final Measure – University of Houston 

What kind of music do you enjoy singing together/what is in your repertoire? 

We like to sing primarily pop music! Our group sound is very bright and energetic, so it fits us pretty well. Right now, our repertoire consists of some electronic, some pop and indie songs.  

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

Most of our music is notated. This year we’ve done a lot of custom arrangements as well as pieces from an array of different arrangers.  

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

Final Measure was originally named something else actually! But after our first in-person year, we decided to change it up and we took suggestions from all of our current members. This name was born out of the combination of a couple different options, and it stuck!  

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

On all our trips, we usually love to watch Pitch Perfect as our sort of good luck charm! We also have a pre-show ritual that consists of vocal and breath warmup, as well as an energizing chant we do while dancing around. It helps all of us to get hyped to be on stage and connect with each other before we perform!  

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

Some artists that our members love to listen to right now are Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, Sabrina Carpenter, Beyonce and Bruno Mars.  

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

Since the group is composed of a lot of different majors, we all have a variety of hobbies like crochet, playing instruments, reading and baking! After rehearsal though, we enjoy going out to eat, cooking together or playing games like Minecraft.   

Decibelles – Southside High School 

What kind of music do you enjoy singing together/what is in your repertoire?  

We enjoy singing music from multiple genres, but the main style of music that inspired our group to start was barbershop! We really enjoy working through tight harmonies and our first song was a barbershop arrangement of "Dream a Little Dream of Me."  We've been dipping more into the vocal jazz pool a lot lately as well! 

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

 Our group works with precisely noted music. Our group formed around choir - that’s how we all met. We’ve bonded and grown closer together over our love of choir and shared songs that have personally touched us. We hope to share this love and passion with others.  

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

Our name is a fun play on words! We took the word decibel, which is a way of measuring sound, and replaced the “bel” with belles! It’s super fun and girly, just like the music we like to sing! People often pronounce it as Decibel is pronounced, but our name is actually pronounced dec-ee-bell! 

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

Before performances, we like traditional choir room warm-ups like warming up our body first by doing exercises like shoulder rolls, tongue stretches, rolling our head gently, etc. Then sometimes we throw on a good 10-minute Jacob’s Vocal Academy (or sometimes a Cheryl Porter) warm-up from YouTube. We are choir kids at heart!  

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

Personally, I have currently been listening to a lot of Laufey, Faye Webster, Daniel Caesar, Omar Apollo, Chet Baker and a lot of classic vocal jazz albums and bossa nova. I find it helpful to consume old and new interpretations of jazz, preparing my voice and mind to bring color to every song we perform. 

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

A lot of us are involved in extracurriculars like class council, student council, theater, choir and more. We love doing Bible studies, going out to get coffee and just being with each other and creating more of a family feeling.  

Remedy – Argyle High School 

What kind of music do you enjoy singing together/what is in your repertoire?  

We like to sing pop songs! But we will pretty much sing anything. We love to sing together every day and learn new harmonies.  

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

Our group primarily sticks with notated music, and we learn our music by listening to tracks and reading sheet music. Members of the group are also given the liberty to improvise on certain parts - our bass is known to add extra notes or sound effects.  

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

The name Remedy was inspired by the song “Remedy” by Adele. We believe that music can be someone's remedy.   

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

Before every performance as a group, we pray. It’s a good way to calm the nerves and give thanks to the Lord before we go perform.  

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

My top artist is currently Ben Platt. In order after that is punk/rock songs from the Killers, blink-182, Weezer and Nirvana.   

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

We like to eat together at Braum's after performances and play volleyball or go to the mall as a group!  

VoiceJam Festival Schedule   

VoiceJam Kickoff Concert – The Edge Effect 

Friday, April 4 | 7:30 pm   

All tickets are $10   

VoiceJam Workshops   

Saturday, April 5 | 9 am – 5 pm   

VoiceJam Competition   

Saturday, April 5 | 7:30 pm   

Tickets are $27 

One Day Choir 

Sunday, April 6 | 10 am – noon  

Free! Click here to sign up