Shaun Jones Opens New Comedy Series

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

These shows are in the 240-capacity Starr Theater with cabaret and tiered seating to get you up close to the funny! Shaun Jones is kicking off the new series on Thursday, Sept. 21 at 7:30 pm. Jones, a New Jersey native, has been a comedian for over two decades.  

Jones describes his comedy as a combination of one cup of truth, a tablespoon of originality and a double twist of humor, that creates a unique comedy dish that will satisfy any audience’s laughter appetite. 

You may have seen Jones on BET’S “ComicView” with Howie Bell and Kevin Hart, Starz “1st Amendment Stand Up” and Robert Townsend’s “Partners In Crime: Next Generation.”  

Recently Jones announced that Amazon Prime will be releasing his new comedy special, "Now You Know!” His new special was filmed in Minneapolis, Mich., at the Dakota, a legendary jazz venue that hasn’t hosted a comic since 1985. When asked what his special was about, Jones explained that he is over 50 years old now, so this is a relatable show that finds humor in aging and everyday lifestyle changes that come with aging. 

Jones has also expanded beyond standup. He appeared in the 2003 movie Shade starring Jamie Foxx and Sylvester Stallone about a group of hustlers who pull off a successful sting that results in their pursuit by a vengeful gangster. Jones plays Ose in the movie.  

The comic-turned-actor also appeared in “Your Worst Nightmare” an hour-long true-crime series on ID. He played Deputy Marv Olson in episode six of the narrated show blends re-enactments of key events with commentary from law enforcement and criminal-justice professionals. 

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

The Comedy Zone with Andy Woodhull

The Comedy Zone at Walton Art Center is excited to bring Andy Woodhull to Fayetteville on Friday, Oct. 20 at 7:30 pm.  

With 12 years of stand-up comedy experience, three comedy albums, and one appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” Woodhull knows how to make just about any crowd laugh. He was inspired to become a comic by his father and has said his father always joked around with him and treated him as a friend rather than a son. Woodhull and his father also used to watch the TV show “Seinfeld,” which was another source of inspiration for him. Woodhull has said that he believes Jerry Seinfeld has perfected the art of observational comedy.  

“I write from my life, which doesn’t set me apart from other comedians, but I’m the only one that has lived my life so in a way it still does,” Woodhull says. His comedy is focused on relatable topics that he has life experience with like divorce, being a stepfather and family life. Woodhull has such a unique sense of humor that still connects to every parent, stepparent, spouse or divorcee.  

Woodhull began his stand-up career in St. Louis, Mo., and made stops in Chicago and Los Angeles before finally settling down in Raleigh, N.C., with his wife and stepchildren. Although Woodhull is still frequently touring across the country doing comedy, he still calls Raleigh home. 

Woodhull is well known for his “clean” comedy performances and comedy albums. He describes his comedy as “PG-13” rated, saying he would let his 10- and 12-year-old daughters watch some of his performances. 

Call your favorite babysitter and leave the kids at home on Friday, Oct. 20 and experience Andy Woodhull’s uncanny humor at Walton Arts Center. This is the perfect parents’ night out to relax without the children and listen to jokes that any parent or spouse can relate to.  

Learn more about The Comedy Zone!

Try These Staff Recommendations for Your Next Theater Outing

Photo by Joan Marcus

With a season full of music, theater, dance, kids shows and more, it can be hard to decide which shows you should see. To help you pick, we’ve asked some of Walton Arts Center’s staff (the people in the know) to recommend the performances they are most excited about in the first half of the season! 

Single tickets to all of our shows are available now at waltonartscenter.org, in person at the box office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm or by calling 479.443.5600.

---

Musical Theater 

SIX

Sept. 12-17

“What isn't to love about SIX? It is such a fun way to look at history, not to mention the songs, costumes and the all-female orchestra. It’s a season standout.” 

Jessica T. / Volunteer Programs Coordinator 

The Cher Show 

Nov. 19 & 21

“Got to see it in New York with four lifelong girlfriends – it was a once-in-a-lifetime trip. The performance was fantastic and portrayed Cher in several stages of her career, and there were some very clever moments portrayed on stage to tell her story.” 

Ranny K. / Patron Services Manager 

Jagged Little Pill 

Jan. 23-28

“This show has the most appeal to me for pop’s sake - Alanis Morissette is a rock icon and lyricist legend. Jagged Little Pill is going to be raw and energetic.”

Derek W. / Lead Audio Technician

Music AND CONCERTS

JOHNNY CASH - The Official Concert Experience  

Oct. 14-15

“I'm really excited to see this show about the life and music of Johnny Cash, one of Arkansas' own. Using performance footage of Cash along with a live band on stage will give those of us who didn't get a chance to see him live a very special performance experience. We all know these songs, and Johnny's story thanks to some recent movies about him. But this experience will be part concert, part documentary - and we will be the first audience to see this production.”

Jenn W. / Public Relations Director  

The Music of Sam Cooke 

Thursday, Sept. 7

“We actually had this show on the schedule last year, but it was cancelled at the last minute due to a snowstorm. This decision was made after the band had already set and begun sound check, so I know how good they will be!”

Alex N. / Technical Director 

Jeff Lorber Trio 

Friday, Oct. 13

“Covering the breadth and diversity of jazz styles can be a challenge with only a six-concert series, but the Starrlight Jazz season makes a formidable stab at it this year with fusion jazz super-star, Jeff Lorber making his debut appearance at Walton Arts Center. Over the course of 42 years and 24 albums, Lorber is an acknowledged pioneer of what would later become known as ‘smooth jazz’ and ‘urban jazz’, weaving together elements of funk, R&B, rock and electric jazz into an appealing hybrid that has consistently won over listeners from coast to coast and resulted in several No. 1 radio hits.”

Robert G. / Jazz Curator 

Dance 

Ailey II 

Tuesday, Feb. 27

“Ailey II is a fine American dance company. They have performed at Walton Arts Center previously and they were inspiring. Our community will love seeing a company that dances the work developed by the great American choreographer, Alvin Ailey.” 

Dr. Patricia R. / Arts Learning Specialist 

---

From comedy, the best of Broadway, blues and jazz, annual events, festivals and more, there is a something for everyone to enjoy this season at Walton Arts Center.

Photo by Matthew Murphy, Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade

10 questions with Season’s First 10x10 Artists: Scythian

Raise a glass with Celtic-Americana fusion band Scythian to kick off the 2023-24 10x10 Arts Series. Somewhere between a barn-dance and a rock concert experience, enjoy roots music from Celtic, Eastern European and Appalachian traditions, memorable for its thunderous energy, technical prowess and storytelling through song.  

The classically trained Fedoryka brothers, Alexander (vocals, fiddle, mandolin, harmonica) and Danylo (vocals, guitar, accordion) grew up on Ukrainian folk-rock, and Ethan Dean (vocals, upright and electric bass, percussion, guitar) was raised on ‘60s and ‘70s rock hits. Meanwhile, Louisiana-raised Johnny Rees (vocals, drums, percussion) brings a Cajun backbeat to the Celtic-Americana, fusion giving Scythian yet another dimension which keeps audiences entertained and moving.  

Ahead of their performance at 7 pm on Sunday, Sept. 10, we asked Danylo Fedoryka questions about the group’s inspiration and performance.  

---

What can audiences expect when they come see this performance?  

We grew up playing classical music and though we loved the music, we really missed a personal connection with the audience. This desire to connect is at the root of our show experience, so audiences should come ready to be engaged and be part of the show.  

From where do you draw inspiration for your art?  

Our mother was a Julliard-trained concert pianist and taught us our instruments. She taught us that beauty will touch hearts and save the world and so we draw inspiration from this encounter with beautiful melodies and harmonies. We also draw inspiration from authentic festivity – performers who really connect with what they're doing and aren't afraid to show their enthusiasm. The Celtic tradition really grabbed our attention since it seems to have all these elements. My brother and I grew up speaking Ukrainian, in a Ukrainian household, so we also got to live the lifestyle of Old-World celebrations. It's part of who we are.  

What drew you to this performance field?  

My mother taught us our instruments and we performed as a family around the country. Mostly nursing homes, Rotary clubs and the like, but also The Kennedy Center in D.C. and Wolftrap International Children's Festival. We've been performing since we were children, but the power of folk music really drew us since it is so multi-generational and serves a purpose of engaging and drawing people into the festivity.  

Is there a story behind how you chose your name?  

My brother Alex and I started out as street performers in Old Town Alexandria playing for gas money. We were just students, but the response was tremendous. We would have crowds of over 100 people gathering. We had never thought of being a band, but one day someone asked what our band name was and Alex said "Scythian" (without consulting me). I asked him why that name? He said: "The Scythian's settled in the Black Sea region and were unconquerable until they met the Celts. It reminded me of us – Ukrainians who were conquered by a love of Celtic music." So, it stuck. And over the years it makes sense since the Scythians were a cultural melting pot and we're a musical melting pot.  

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

We usually like to sing a few a cappella songs just to unite our voices in harmony and lock in that way, and we always start every show with a secret handshake!  

Pick 5 words that best describe your work.  

Energy. Eclectic. Joyful. Infectious. Captivating. You have to see it to understand it since tabbing us under a genre just doesn't do it. 

What is the best advice that you have been given?  

My mother taught us: "Each soul will live on forever. If only one person shows up at your show, you owe it to them to give the best performance you can give. Because each soul is infinite, it deserves 100% from you." Some days we'll play for 10,000 people and others 75 – you can struggle with disappointment when the numbers don't show up, but then I remember this advice and always feel better stepping out on the stage.  

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

Anything with harmonies! I am a harmony guy and love making music with my friends, so there are a lot of harmonies in our show. There's something so great about feeling all four of our voices going out in a wall of sound.  

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

Playing for the president on St. Patrick's Day in the U.S. Capitol is a huge highlight. Closing out the main stage at World Youth Day after the Pope in Sydney Australia for 300,000+ people was surreal; meeting legends like Doc Watson, Liam Clancy, Tommy Makem, Levon Helm shortly before they died are among a few of the many, many stories we've gathered.   

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

We founded our own roots music festival called Appaloosa which takes place every Labor Day Weekend near Washington D.C. and we have a Spotify Playlist of this year's lineup. I've really been enjoying listening to all the young talent. Our hashtag is #WhereYouFindTheNextBigThing and so most of the acts are undiscovered, but hungry and bursting with talent.  

Introducing Kids to Theater with the Classroom Series

---

Ailey II

Northwest Arkansas is full of wonderful arts organizations and experiences, however not everyone can afford to attend a performance. Now, through the Classroom Series, students and teachers in our region can attend a matinee show at Walton Arts Center for free thanks to the generous support of our sponsors.  

“This is what most commonly think of as our field trip program,” said Sallie Zazal, director of learning and engagement. “It includes performances for school groups to attend during the school day. We have a little bit of everything, from dance to music to plays, and the programs offered are for learners of all ages and abilities.” Variety and accessibility are key to the Classroom Series because Walton Arts Center’s goal is to build a community where every child participates in high-quality arts experiences both in and out of school. 

Brush Theatre’s Poli POP!

 “Teachers and students love Walton Arts Center,” Zazal said. “We have one of the largest classroom series programs in the nation. Many performing arts centers our size offer just a few titles each season for student groups. Because access to the arts for all students has been a goal of our organization from the start, we now serve around 28,000 students from nearly 90 school annually just as a part of the Classroom Series.”  

Arts field trips are about more than seeing a performance, an exhibition or leaving campus, they are a chance to participate in hands-on, experiential learning. When students have the opportunity to learn through the lens of the arts, they develop critical thinking, collaboration and creative skills necessary to succeed in our rapidly changing world. Further, theatrical performances give children the opportunity to understand the experiences of people and characters from different places and time periods – without leaving their hometown. Through field trips, students build social capital and community connections by exploring institutions like ours.  

Students this year will get to experience dance, theater, Japanese drumming, a cappella, ukulele ensembles, fresh takes on classic fables and more, expanding their access to and bolstering their education through arts experiences. For a listing of these season’s Classroom Series shows, please visit our website, linked below.

If you are a teacher, school administrator or parent and would like more information about Classroom Series performances and how you can participate next year, email schools@waltonartscenter.org.  

Keep the learning experience going even after the performance has ended:

• Ask children questions about the show – who was their favorite character? What did they notice about the elements of the performance such as sets, music, lighting, props and costumes? These discussions not only serve as a bonding experience, but also help to hone your child’s critical thinking skills.  

Many children express interest in performing themselves after attending the theater. Did your children catch the theater bug? Help them put on a play:

• The theater-making process is an excellent learning experience, combining writing (the script), critical thinking (memorizing lines), imaginative thinking (directing the show), art (making sets, costumes and props) and social emotional learning (standing up and performing in front of others). Use a well-loved book as your “script” or write an original story. Bonus if you make a recording of their performance to enjoy!

Trike Theatre’s Bear State of Mind

Your invitation to enjoy Jubilant Jazz at Walton Arts Center

Starrlight Jazz Club is back this season with six impressive and dynamic jazz acts. Each show is held in the intimate Starr Theater, getting you up close to some of the hottest musicians on the scene today. Each jazz show is immersive and imaginative, each artist putting their own unique spin on jazz. You won’t want to miss the individuality each quintet, trio and band has to offer.

Tim Armacost Quintet

Saturday, Sept. 30 at 7:30 pm

Unique, electric and melodic are three words to describe this year’s Starrlight Jazz Club season opener. Jazz saxophonist and composer, Tim Armacost makes his second appearance in the Starrlight Jazz Club with a brand new quintet of veteran jazz luminaries. Armacost is accompanied by Joe Locke (vibraphone), Jim Ridl (piano), Kenny Davis (bass) and Rudy Royston (percussion). Robert Ginsburg, jazz curator at Walton Arts Center and host of KUAF's “Shades of Jazz,” described the Tim Armacost Quintet as “mainstream jazz at its very best, the music they create together is incredibly organic, purposeful and sumptuously evocative and swinging. Armacost is best known for his hard-edged tone and melodic figures that never quite travel where one might think, this thrilling concert is brimming with harmonic tension and release.

---

Jeff Lorber FUSION Trio

Friday, Oct. 13 at 7:30 pm

Starrlight Jazz Club is hosting Jeff Lorber, a fusion jazz super-star who has an impressive four-decade career as a Grammy®-winning pianist, composer and producer. Lorber transcends musical boundaries and hones his own uniquely identifiable sound by infusing his music with blues, funk, soul and R&B while still carrying the mantle of “adult contemporary jazz.” Curating the season, Ginsburg said the trio, “is an acknowledged pioneer of what would later become known as ‘smooth jazz’ and ‘urban jazz’, weaving together elements of funk, R&B, rock and electric jazz into an appealing hybrid that has consistently won over listeners.” 

---

Tierney Sutton

Saturday, dec. 2 at 7:30 pm

In high demand as both a studio producer and vocal coach, the nine-time Grammy nominee Tierney Sutton will be taking the stage at Starrlight Jazz Club on Saturday, Dec. 2 at 7:30 pm. Sutton is heralded for her impeccable voice, superbly imaginative arrangements and ability to transform even the most familiar song into a revelation. Her elaborate arrangements will be complemented onstage by pianist Mitch Foreman and guitarist Serge Merlaud. Sutton’s scatting boasts a clean airborne quality, and most important of all – she can swing!

---

Loston Harris TRIO

Saturday, jan. 13 at 7:30 pm

Loston Harris is an improvisational musician doing his part to continue a musical legacy, blending traditional jazz, gospel and blues with his own unique stylings. His piano playing has been described as “percussive” and “incredibly fluid.” His vocals noted as “suave” as he takes early inspiration from artists like Stevie Wonder, Carole King and other pop and R&B bands. Currently, Harris and his Trio are living every jazz artist’s dream, playing the music closest to their hearts while ensuring jazz remains hip, complex and limitless. 

---

Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band

Friday, feb. 2 at 7:30 pm

This stellar group features Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band who introduced a magnetic new musical synthesis in the late ‘90s. Since then, they have continued adding a jazz-inflected, gospel-rooted take to the jazz genre, Blade being known as “a peerless drummer with a gift for subtle shading and flowing undertow.” The electric Fellowship Band features two saxophonists, Myron Walden on alto and Melvin Butler on tenor, along with Christopher Thomas on bass and guitarist Kurt.

---

Aubrey logan BAND

Saturday, April 27 at 7:30 pm

Aubrey Logan is known best as one of the most brilliant contemporary jazz artists on the scene, moving between jazz, funk, love songs, Calypso-infused rhythms and traditionally inspired fusions, her vocals and trombone playing sway between the tender caress of a long-lost love and triumphant powerhouse performances. Logan is an inspiring singer-songwriter and trombonist who uses music to touch the deepest parts of the human experience. Working with some incredible names, including Quincy Jones, Burt Bacharach, Josh Groban, Smokey Robinson and Pharrell Williams, Logan’s work is accessible, fresh and dynamic.

---

You won’t want to miss this all-star lineup so make sure to purchase your tickets and dust off those dancing shoes to join us at the Starrlight Jazz Club. Cabaret seating costs $53 per ticket and theater seating costs $33 per ticket. Subscribe to see all six shows and receive 10% off single ticket prices for cabaret tables or in theater seating. Subscriptions and single tickets are available now at waltonartscenter.org, by calling 479.443.5600 or by visiting the box office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm.

Help This Musical Dynamic Duo Set a World Record!

Musicians Devon Allman and Donavon Frankenreiter are attempting to make history, and you can be a witness! The concept is simple. The execution will be brutal … 50 shows in all 50 American states in less than 50 days. Walton Arts Center is stop No. 33 on Tuesday, Sept. 5 at 7 pm, right between stops in Missouri and Louisiana. 

Like modern day Evel Knievel’s, the tour is going to test the wills of these road-tested veterans at every turn. The rock ‘n’ roll recording artists have their sights set on overturning a world record, hoping to complete their quest 20 years and one day later than the record was set.  

Pennsylvania anti-folk artist Adam Brodsky currently holds the Guinness World Record for fastest time to play a concert in all 50 states. The solo musician set out on August 3, 2003 and completed the challenge 50 days later on Sept. 21. Brodsky played an additional show on Sept. 22 in Washington D.C.  

“I’ve had this idea in my back pocket for the better part of a decade,” shares Allman, award-winning singer, guitarist, songwriter and producer. “I think growing up reading the world record books, it’s just always been a fantasy to go after a world record.” Following the footsteps of his rock legend father, Gregg Allman, Devon Allman has appeared at some of the world’s biggest festivals, played in several rock supergroups and regularly writes a column for Guitar Players Magazine. He is also endorsed by Gibson guitars and serves on the board of directors for the National Blues Museum. 

“This undertaking is going to be really difficult, but very rewarding, and I really found the perfect co-conspirator in Donavon Frankenreiter,” Allman said. “We have been jamming together for years now and are quite simpatico … he is the perfect Evel to my Knievel.” 

For nearly four decades Donavon Frankenreiter has been traveling the globe, first as a professional surfer, and now as a musician. Born in Southern California, Frankenreiter spent most of his youth chasing waves, and he turned pro at the age of 16. These days instead of surfing competitions, it’s concert halls that bring Frankenreiter to town, where he entertains audiences with his unique blend of laid-back grooves, philosophical lyrics and soulful delivery. 

“I first met Devon on the Allman Family Revival Tour and we always talked about doing something together,” adds Frankenreiter. “One morning, Devon called me and said he had this crazy idea about breaking a World Record. As soon as he said 50 shows in 50 states under 50 days I said, ‘Yes, let’s do this.’ And now, a year later, we are ready to see it all … or at least attempt to see it all!” 
 
The See It All Tour will take them to places they’ve never been, at a pace that’s never been done. The duo along with a backing band will be playing songs from their recently released collaborative EP titled Rollers.  

Be a part of music history and cheer on Team D&D when they perform at Walton Arts Center in early September. Let’s kick the tires and start the fires.  Tickets start at $29 and are on sale now.  

Broadway Subscriptions vs. Create Your Own Subscription: Which is the right package for you?

There are so many ways to enjoy the upcoming season at Walton Arts Center, including series subscriptions, options to create your own personalized subscriptions and, of course, purchasing single tickets. With an option to suit each preference, schedule and budget, we’ve created the following guide to help explain the differences between our two most popular options, the Broadway Subscription, Broadway Sampler and the Create Your Own Subscription.  

Broadway Subscriptions  

Broadway subscribers get the best seats at the best price for all Broadway shows, along with priority access to new shows, discounts on most other shows during the season and free ticket exchange and replacement. This package allows patrons to see all six shows in the upcoming season, SIX, Sept. 12-17; TINA – The Tina Turner Musical, Dec. 12-17; Jagged Little Pill, Jan. 23-28; Company, Feb. 20-25; Aladdin, March 26-31; To Kill A Mockingbird, April 16-21; and get first access to three bonus shows: The Cher Show, Nov. 19 & 21; Les Misérables, Jan. 2-7; and Hairspray, May 3-5. 

Six-show Broadway subscription packages range from $326 to $478 for Tuesday and Wednesday evenings and Thursday matinee, and $381 to $533 for Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening, and Saturday and Sunday matinees. Package prices vary depending on seat location and include all fees. Dates, programs and prices are subject to change. 

Full Broadway Subscriptions are only available until the first show in the Broadway season, so act fast! 

Broadway Sampler 

For the busy Broadway lover, the Broadway Sampler gives patrons early access to all Broadway shows in the season, including the P&G Broadway series and bonus shows. Just select three or more of the following shows to curate your package: SIX, The Cher Show, TINA: The Tina Turner Musical, Les Misérables, Jagged Little Pill, Company, Aladdin, To Kill A Mockingbird and Hairspray. 

Subscription packages start as low as $147 for three shows. Broadway Sampler subscribers also have no exchange fees for one performance and get discounts and reduced fees on Broadway tickets. 

Create Your Own 

Our most flexible option, the popular Create Your Own subscription allows patrons to curate their own package from a wider range of shows in our seasonriber-only benefits. 

Choose shows from any series, except for 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 subscription, 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. 

In addition to the ability to customize their subscription, Create Your Own subscribers also get early access to the season’s shows before single tickets go on sale to the general public later this summer, early access to new shows added throughout the year and discounts on most shows, including Broadway. 

Start building your Create Your Own package from these shows: 

10x10 Arts Series 

• Scythian: Ukraine to Appalachia, September 10* 

• As We Speak: Béla fleck, Zakir Hussain and Edgar Meyer featuring Rakesh Chaurasia, November 4* 

• Mariachi Herencia de México presents A Very Mariachi Christmas, December 21* 

• Galvin Cello Quartet, January 30* 

• Aquila Theatre’s Fahrenheit 451, February 15* 

• Ailey II, February 27* 

• Drum Tao, March 12* 

• Take 6, April 12* 

• Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain, April 26* 

LOL@WAC  

• The Capitol Fools, October 26 

• The Rocky Horror Picture Show Halloween Party, October 30 

• Menopause the Musical 2: Cruising Through “The Change,”® March 2 

• John Waters’ End of the World, May 1 

Bonus Shows 

• Les Misérables, January 2-7 

• VoiceJam Competition, April 13 

P&G Broadway Series 

• SIX, September 12-17 

• TINA – The Tina Turner Musical, December 12-17 

• Jagged Little Pill, January 23-28 

• Company, February 20-25 

• Disney’s Aladdin, March 26-31 

• Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird, April 16-21 

Coca-Cola Night Out Series 

• The Music of Sam Cooke, September 7 

• The Cher Show, November 19-21 

• David Foster & Katharine McPhee, February 29 

• Pilobolus Re: Creation Tour, March 14 

• Hairspray, May 3-5 

 Land O’Lakes Concert Series 

• Devon Allman & Donavon Frankenreiter, September 5 

• Tanya Tucker, October 4  

• JOHNNY CASH: Official Concert Experience, October 14-15 

• Lorrie Morgan’s Enchanted Christmas, December 1 

• Squirrel Nut Zippers’ Holiday Caravan, December 19 

Kellogg’s Kids and Family Series 

• Paw Patrol Live! “Heroes Unite,” September 29-October 1** 

• Walton Arts Center & SoNA Present The Snowman: A Family Concert, December 10* 

• American Girl Live! In Concert, February 3 

• BRUSH Theatre’s Poli Pop!, February 13* 

• tutti frutti’s The Boy Who Cried Wolf, March 5 

• NORTH, April 28* 

• Compagnia TPO’s +ERBA – A Forest in the City, May 14-15* 

*Shows not eligible for discounts. 

**Discount available to select shows 

+ While not all shows are eligible for discounts, they do count toward your package level. All shows must be purchased in one transaction to receive the discount. You can add more later, but you will keep the same package level all year. 

More information about West Street Live and Starrlight Jazz Subscriptions will be available soon. Single tickets to all 2023-24 shows will go on sale later this summer. Follow us on social media to be the first to hear about new shows, on sale dates and more!  

Q&A with the Producers of Madagascar The Musical

Don’t miss Alex, Marty, Melman and Gloria as they bound out of the zoo and onto Walton Arts Center’s stage in a musical adaptation of the animated movie, Madagascar. This brand-new musical from Dreamworks will leave audiences with no choice but to “Move It, Move It!”  

Ahead of the performances June 2-3, we sat down with the producers and found out what makes this show so special. 

---

What are the challenges you faced adapting this animated movie into a musical theater production? 

When you have a film franchise as popular as Madagascar, the challenge becomes knowing which parts of the story to tell while giving audiences what they expect to see. As we bring these beloved characters to life, I believe we have found the right balance of heart and humor that won’t disappoint and will be fun for the whole family.   

Why do you think Madagascar lends itself to being a musical theater adaptation?  

It was a no-brainer. The larger-than-life characters and the colorful backdrop from the film made the leap to stage an easy one. The fun part is figuring out how to bring the animated world to life through scenic elements and using stage craft to enhance the story. We must give credit to Kevin Del Aguila for his great work with the book and our composers Joel Somellian and George Noriega. These elements really propel the story and make it feel like a party.  

What are the biggest differences between the film and the theater production and can you explain what led to these choices?   

The biggest difference is the new music and the focus on pivotal moments from the original story. Film allows you to cover more time and space in the storytelling, but in theater you have to focus on important moments. The use of original songs in these moments enriches the story. 

Is this a show for kids or for the whole family?  

This is for the whole family. It is visually stimulating and very funny. It will keep everyone entertained and having a good time. I mean the penguins alone … come on!  

How can this show get younger audiences interested in theater and Broadway?  

Live theater is a magical experience. Seeing a show like this come together with the lights, sets and music will give a joyful, positive message will always inspire future storytellers and supporters of the arts.  

What about the story of Madagascar makes it so beloved worldwide and what is exciting about this new adaptation?  

I think the story resonates with people of all ages. We all get restless and want to find where we belong, but we can’t do it alone. It’s a simple story of adventure and community wrapped in a party. And you watch it come to life right before your eyes. What’s not to love? 

---

Films from Independent Creators Spark Conversations on Art and Sustainability

Fayetteville Film Fest and Walton Arts Center are proud to showcase Indie Films Artosphere on Friday, May 12 at 8 pm. Featuring 10 films from independent artists screened during the annual Artosphere, Arkansas’ Arts + Nature Festival, this mini film festival will spark conversations about sustainability and the intersection of art and nature.  

We sat down with some of the creatives behind the mini film festival to learn more about what inspires them. 

Cassie Self, executive director of Fayetteville Film Fest, curated these films based on their focus on themes of nature. These films will represent “multiple genres from animation, narrative and documentary styles, including student and professional,” Self said. As people enjoy the films, Self hopes “that it can broaden their perspective on how different cultures interact with our earth, how we individually hold values around nature and how we can be psychologically affected by the absence of it.”  

One of the films to be screened is Avoesis, which unpacks the idea of nature’s persistence despite human impact, like noise pollution and urban environments. The film’s director, Mykhailo Bogdanov studied both cinematography and environmental science, and combines his interests to spark conversations about nature and sustainability. “Filmmaking is one of the best ways to tell a meaningful story and share it with the world. That’s why, I think I am capable to fuse my passions and tell impactful environmental stories.” 

Bogdanov’s film highlights the interactions between natural life and human commercial impact. “It is important to consider the true power of that nature, but it will only be possible if we protect the environment and fill it with greenery, birds and other important living things.  "The natural cycle of life is the harmony that we belong to, and we shouldn’t disconnect and destroy it,” he continued. “We live in a world that is desperately struggling due to a climate crisis. As a father, I feel tons of responsibility to make sure my kids will have healthy soil under their feet, clean water, a lot of trees and a clear sky above them.” 

When asked what he wanted audiences to take away from the film, Bogdanov said, “I think that Avoesis has a lot of layers to it, and everyone can grab something for themself. Ideally, I would love if viewers will go out in their natural surrounding and start paying attention to everything around them, using their listening and critical thinking.” 

Avoesis is just one of the films you can see at the Indie Films Artosphere on Friday, March 12, at 8 pm. All tickets are $15!  

During Artosphere, there are a few additional opportunities to catch a film. Join us for a special, spooky, free (but ticketed) outdoor film screening of the classic 1963 Alfred Hitchcock horror film, The Birds at Prairie Street Live on Wednesday, May 10, at 8:30 pm. And, watch an unlikely love story unfold between artist Pat Musick and Apollo astronaut Jerry Carr on Friday, May 19, at 7 pm. Following the free screening of The Artist and the Astronaut, the director and music composer will be participating in a Q&A. 

---

Other Films Screened at the Indie Films Artosphere Showcase: 

Indie Films Artosphere Titles and Schedule 

Pili Ka Mo’o (13:58)   

Director: Justyn Ah Chong 

While much of O’ahu has become urbanized. Hakipu’u remains a kipuka (oasis) of traditional knowledge where great chiefs once resided and their bones still remain. 

To The Bone (5:36)   

Director: Andy Sarjahani 

An Ozarks naturalist and bowhunter reflects on a recent animal harvest as he ponders the cycle of life.  

Diiyeghan (5:58)   

Director: Andy Sarjahani 

A grandfather teaches his granddaughter, a young Gwich’in mother named Alisha, how reciprocity is embedded in all aspects of life. The northern lights warm the caribou, the caribou help feed and sustain the community and the community learns to honor the connections. 

To Sprayer (8:45)   

Director: Farnoosh Abedi 

In the land occupied with the sprayers army, no one has the right to grow any kind of plants either in private or public.  

The Misanthrope (21:31)   

Director: Paulina Sobczak 

After a deadly sickness descends, a heartbroken gravedigger imposes a grevious new law. 

Rain (6:34)   

Director: Mahdi Barqzadegan 

Some people feel the rain. Others just get wet.  

Heal The River (5:36)   

Director: Andy Sarjahani 

Hydropower dams, built decades ago, have dramatically altered river systems across Alabama. Downstream of the Harris Dam on the Tallapossa River, families and landowners who have lost property and use of the river have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to ask for changes to the operation of the dam through the relicensing process. Their hope is that changes can improve downstream conditions and begin to heal the river.   

Psychogeography of Mourning (8:30)   

Director: Shayna Connelly 

This film uses static imagery and unpredictable sound to reconcile the contradictory interior and exterior experiences that grief elicits. 

Flyover (10:58)   

Director: Brian White 

A day in the life of a modern Midwestern community as a farmhand hunts for the cow he scared away. 

Volunteer Appreciation Month: Leslie Redmon

At Walton Arts Center, we truly depend on our volunteers on a daily basis – but especially on show days! They greet you when you walk in the door, help you get your ticket at  Will Call, scan your ticket when you go into the theater and help you find your seat. But that’s not all… they assist with educational programs, special events and assist with administrative tasks. We have a dedicated corps of volunteers that are involved in every aspect of the theater, providing thousands of hours of service each year.  

The show couldn’t go on without our volunteers. From all the staff at Walton Arts Center, THANK YOU to each and every volunteer.  

During April, Volunteer Appreciation Month, we will be highlighting a few of the amazing people who help make up our outstanding team of volunteers. 

For Leslie Redmon, local social media guru and mom, volunteering is the best way to see new shows, and to experience what she calls “the perks,” including complimentary tickets and social opportunities.  

Redmon started volunteering in 2022, though she has been coming to see shows here since she was in middle school. Her first Broadway show as a volunteer was Fiddler on the Roof, a show which she has loved since high school. “It was amazing to be in the presence of the amazing cast and crew of a show I already knew,” she said. As a lifelong patron, she loved the atmosphere at Walton Arts Center and knew she wanted to be a part of it. Redmon gets to use her natural people skills to greet patrons and make sure their entire experience is memorable.  

One time, ahead of a shift, Redmon was getting some sushi across the street and started chatting with a cast-member from Bluey’s Big Show. “It was nice to interact with someone from the show and to let them know that we appreciated what they were doing here,” Redmon said. “Especially in what feels like such a small town, volunteering lets you meet so many different people.” She didn’t watch “Bluey” with her kids before meeting the cast member and volunteering during the run – now it is regularly on the TV in their home.  

About volunteering, Redmon says, “Jump in and do it! Sometimes it can be intimidating as a younger person to start something new, but the other volunteers and staff are so welcoming and are so helpful,” she said. “Volunteering is easy, it’s typically during nights, so I can easily do it while my kids are already in bed!”  

Alongside being a mother and a volunteer, Redmon loves to take pottery classes, garden and make videos that go “kinda-viral” on social media. Redmon was a twirler in the band at the University of Arkansas, performing for 80,000 people regularly during football games. She got into theater later in life, but love of the arts runs in her family – her uncle is the saxophone player in Earth, Wind & Fire and author of Anita Baker’s “Sweet Love,” for which he won a Grammy®. Seeing her uncle play at the Walmart AMP was one of her first dates with her now husband.  

The complimentary ticket program, volunteer appreciation night, trivia nights and other social gatherings are just a few “the perks” of volunteering at Walton Arts Center. There is also an incredible sense of community that is established inside and outside of the performance hall, and you can be a part of it! If you are looking to make new friends in a fun, creative environment and to support the arts in your local community, volunteering at Walton Arts Center is a great way to get involved. For more information, please visit waltonartscenter.org/volunteer. 

Volunteer Appreciation Month: Annee Littell

There’s an age-old saying in theater: “the show must go on.” At Walton Arts Center, we say something similar about our volunteer team: the show can’t go on without them! Our dedicated corps of volunteers are involved in every aspect of what we do—helping in the administrative office, box office, the Friends lounge, ushering in the hall and more.  

Our volunteers make a difference not only to the success of our organization and visiting artists, but to our community. Volunteers help create unique experiences for the first-time visitor or the patron that has been with us for our 30-year history (some of our volunteers have been here that long too).  

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month here at Walton Arts Center and over the next few weeks, we will be highlighting some of the amazing people who help make up our outstanding team of volunteers. 

 Annee Littell has been volunteering at Walton Arts Center for 27 years. “I was here in Fayetteville before Walton Arts Center was ever built. I was thrilled when it came into being and thought, ‘Volunteering will give me a chance to see more art.”  

“When I moved here decades ago, it was just a little college town,” Littell continued, “But it is still that funky place I knew back then. Walton Arts Center has spiffed it up and now people come here to share their art. It is an arts destination! Now, the arts are much more accessible – especially as a volunteer. I get to learn so much about arts and entertainment and I get to see things that I wouldn’t have before.”  

Littell’s favorite memory is using her volunteer complimentary tickets to take her daughter to see Kinky Boots. The complimentary ticket program allows volunteers to work up to receiving tickets to shows that are presented at the venue, and Littell turned their day at the theater into a party, with access to the lounge and a great show to top it off. 

Littell is a lifelong learner, springing from her experience living in Istanbul, Turkey at just 17 years old. Littell was an educator and particularly loves working education shows, where students from schools all across the area come to Walton Arts Center for a field trip, to see a show made just for them. “I love all of the things Walton Arts Center for kids through the educational programs. I was a teacher for years and I know how much those arts experiences change their lives.”  

She volunteers at multiple places across the community, helping at the library, donating her time removing invasive plant species and visiting people in hospice. She also enjoys gardening, knitting and she fosters dogs.  

If you are looking for a way to experience more performing arts or to support the arts in your community, volunteering at Walton Arts Center is a great way to get involved. For more information about volunteering, please visit waltonartscenter.org/volunteer. 

Show spotlight: Aladdin is Exactly What You Wish For

Senzel Ahmady as Jasmine and Adi Roy as Aladdin. Photo by Deen van Meer. Copyright Disney

---

Discover a whole new world at Disney’s Aladdin, the hit Broadway musical, coming to Walton Arts Center March 26-31. From the producer of The Lion King comes a timeless story and a thrilling new production filled with unforgettable beauty, magic, comedy and breathtaking spectacle. It’s an extraordinary theatrical event where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite. This bold new musical is brought to life by a gold-standard Broadway creative team who have won a cumulative 22 Tony Awards®, and it features all the cherished songs from the Academy Award-winning score and original music, written especially for the stage. 

One of the standout features of Aladdin are the costumes, with each one custom-made specifically for the show. It took Tony-winning costume designer Gregg Barnes eight hours to draw and paint each costume sketch. Meanwhile, 205 people worked on the construction of the 236 costumes and 77 pairs of custom shoes. The fabrics and trims came from all over the world including Morocco, Turkey, India, Uzbekistan, China, Tahiti, Japan, Guatemala, Mexico, France, Italy, England and Germany. During one scene, 38 costume changes take place in under one minute! Jasmine's wedding dress, which features crystal beading, weighs a staggering 18 lbs. Meanwhile, there are 8,644 crystal rhinestones on every single gold finale costume in “Friend Like Me.” 

Adi Roy as Aladdin. Photo by Deen van Meer. Copyright Disney

The North American tour of Aladdin is an impressive feat of logistics. More than 15 tons of scenery and lighting are suspended above the stage, and it takes 75 people to deliver each performance on tour, including actors, stage crew, musicians, dressers, hairstylists and make-up artists. The North American touring production uses nine 53’ long trucks to transport costumes, set pieces and other materials from city to city. 

But it's not just the physical production that makes it such an amazing show. The characters are known worldwide, and the score is both familiar and fresh. Aladdin was the highest-grossing film of 1992 and it has woven itself into popular culture. This is a great show for the whole family to enjoy; kids will see characters they already know and love come to life on stage! 

With its first-class creative team, unparalleled stagecraft from Disney and unforgettable characters and songs, it's an experience you won't want to miss. Single tickets to Aladdin and the rest of the 2023-24 Broadway season will be available later this summer.  

Broadway subscriptions are on sale now, and a subscription is the best way to guarantee tickets to all shows. Six-show Broadway subscription packages range from $301 to $458 for Tuesday and Wednesday evening and Thursday matinee, and $366 to $533 for Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening, and Saturday and Sunday matinees. Subscriptions are available now for a limited time and can be renewed or purchased online at waltonartscenter.org, by calling the subscriber concierge at 479.571.2785 or in person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm. 

---

Men in Aladdin. Photo by Deen van Meer. Copyright Disney.

Volunteer Appreciation Month: Ben Walworth

At Walton Arts Center, we truly depend on our volunteers on a daily basis – but especially on show days! They greet you when you walk in the door, help you get your ticket at  Will Call, scan your ticket when you go into the theater and help you find your seat. But that’s not all … they assist with educational programs, special events and with administrative tasks. We have a dedicated corps of volunteers that are involved in every aspect of what we do, providing thousands of hours of service each year.  

The show couldn’t go on without our volunteers. From all the staff at Walton Arts Center, THANK YOU to each and every volunteer.  

During April, Volunteer Appreciation Month, we will be highlighting a few of the amazing people who help make up our outstanding team of volunteers. 

Growing up in Branson, Mo., Ben Walworth’s family loved seeing shows, often driving down to Walton Arts Center to see the latest Broadway hit. Walworth started attending college at the University of Arkansas in August 2020, and with restrictions still in place, it was hard to connect with like-minded people. Now, as a junior marketing major, Walworth has been volunteering at Walton Arts Center for a few years, alongside getting involved in lots of activities on campus.  

“I instantly fell in love with the whole volunteer experience,” Walworth said. His favorite memory is working Hamilton in spring 2022 – he loved meeting different audiences each night.  

“It's really helpful as a college student to get to engage with people outside of the college setting,” he continued. “It has been really cool to get to know all of the volunteers. Lots of them graduated from the University of Arkansas, even from the school of business, and I have been able to get advice and different perspectives from them, all while working alongside them.”  

About volunteering, Walworth says “you should just do it! It is so flexible; you create your own schedule and there are tons of opportunities based on what you enjoy.” His favorite part about volunteering is how welcoming the staff and volunteer team are. 

Outside of volunteering, Walworth loves to read and visit art museums. He has been a lifelong fan of the arts. Walworth plays piano, saxophone and was a drum major during high school. 

If you want to be a part of the behind-the-scenes team that makes performing arts happen, or if you need volunteer hours for a student-run organization, volunteering at Walton Arts Center is a great way to get involved. For more information about volunteering, please visit waltonartscenter.org/volunteer. 

How Rescue Dogs Are Trained to Play Sandy in Annie

Photo Credit: Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman

It’s no secret that the dog who plays Sandy in Annie has been stealing the spotlight at every show since the musical first premiered in 1976. And it’s no exception for the latest national touring production starring Ellie Pulsifer in the title role, coming to Walton Arts Center May 5-7. 

Since Annie’s inception, Bill Berloni has been training the Sandys. Sandy, according to the script by Charles Strouse, Thomas Meehan and Martin Charnin, is described as medium-sized, sandy color of an indistinguishable breed. 

Before Annie was on Broadway, Berloni, who was a 20-year-old aspiring actor at the time, who was asked by one of the musical’s producers to find a dog and train it to be Sandy. From that moment, he made training rescue dogs for the stage his passion and career.   

For the new national tour, Addison and Georgie play Sandy. “We look for dogs with well-balanced temperaments. That's it. If they're well-balanced, then they can learn anything,” Berloni said of what makes the perfect candidate to be a stage dog.

Bill Berloni, Annie’s touring dog-trainer.

Sandy has a pivotal role in the story. The character is on stage for about fourteen minutes with 15 - 20 stage cues a show.  And the Sandys cast are always rescue dogs. Addison was rescued four years ago from a North Carolina animal shelter, one day before she was set to be euthanized. While Georgie was saved from nearly being turned over to a Pennsylvania high kill shelter. “Animals end up in shelters for many reasons. But many of them end up there because of family hardships or a death in the family— not because of any behavioral issues. We hope to find those animals and hopefully adopt them.” explained Berloni.   

Training the dogs to be on a big stage with thousands of people in the audience takes about two to three years. First, they get healthy and housebroken. Then trainers use a basic obedience course where the rescue dogs learn how to walk by your side, sit, stay, lay down, sit up and come when you call them.  

 “Our training begins a conversation with them unlike any conversation they've ever had before,” explained Berloni of his process. “Every behavior has a reward. And for the most part, the reward is love. So, there's never any, ‘if you do that, this is your punishment.’ There is: ‘I'd like you to do this. And if you do, you'll get a reward.’ It's a much slower process.”  

Annie’s director, Jenn Thompson

Once that’s mastered, the dogs learn their cues for the show. For this production of Annie, the rehearsal process with the cast began about a month before the first performances. Pulsifer spent many hours bonding with Addison and Georgie by feeding them, walking them and even sleeping with them. “What differentiates our dogs from other pets is that they learn to listen to other people, as opposed to just listening to me,” Berloni said. If at any time the dogs don’t want to perform, they don’t have to and they retire from their stage careers.   

What’s even more special about this version is that it’s directed by Jenn Thompson, who played the orphan named Pepper, in the original Broadway production. She’s known Berloni since she was 10 years old. For this new tour of Annie, he’s the only person on the creative team that has worked on the show before. With new eyes on the story, music, scenery and costumes – it gives this version a fresh perspective that audiences may not have seen before. 

“It's been really emotional to be together in some ways,” Thompson said of their reunion. “I still look at Annie a little bit like a 12-year-old. Being with him has been like coming home.”  

While Thompson says it's her first time directing a production of Annie, Berloni disagrees. “It's 1978 there's all these kids on Broadway. They're bored. So, they come up with an idea to do their own production of Annie onstage in between shows. Jenn directed the eight orphans doing their version of Annie. I knew she was a director because she was always bossing everyone around,” Berloni joked.   

Like Thompson, who found her calling for directing at a young age, Berloni discovered his passion through Annie too on the day he rescued a dog to play the part. “That one dog helped me find what I do the best.” He hopes, with every Sandy, it helps audiences see a different perspective on animal adoption.   

Annie teaches kids and kids-at-heart to hold on to hope when times get tough, just when we needed it most. You and your young theatergoers have five chances to see this new warm-hearted production. Tickets start at $29.

Volunteer Appreciation Month: Jerry and MariAnne Retallick

There’s an age-old saying in theater: “the show must go on.” At Walton Arts Center, we say something similar about our volunteer team: the show can’t go on without them! Our dedicated corps of volunteers are involved in every aspect of what we do—helping in the administrative office, box office, the Friends lounge, ushering in the hall and more.  

Our volunteers make a difference not only to the success of our organization and visiting artists, but to our community. Volunteers help create unique experiences for the first-time visitor or the patron that has been with us for our 30-year history (some of our volunteers have been here that long too).  

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month here at Walton Arts Center and over the next few weeks, we will be highlighting some of the amazing people who help make up our outstanding team of volunteers.  

Jerry Retallick started volunteering in 2017, following a lifetime of volunteering at arts centers across the world. MariAnne, his wife, started two months after, “because I saw he had such a good time volunteering here!”  

They met in Wisconsin while Jerry was in the Navy. Having previously been on a few double dates together – but, with other people – MariAnne heard where Jerry was stationed, “went to bother him and the rest is history!” The Retallicks have lived in China, Korea, Germany, Canada and throughout the U.S. While living in Europe, Marianne volunteered at the USO.  

“We’ve lived in a number of places, and I would do volunteer work for the local community theaters there,” Jerry said. “So we moved here, I retired, and looked around for something to do in the community. That’s ultimately what led me to Walton Arts Center.”  

Jerry and MariAnne enjoy spending time together though they “don’t very often work on the same side of the hall.” They look forward to catching up in the car afterwards, laughing about all of the things that happened at the shows. Most of all, the Retallicks love to volunteer at Walton Arts Center because of the socialization. “It really is about the group of volunteers and staff that you work with–this is a positive place,” MariAnne continued, “with the patrons too, they leave laughing, having had a great experience.”  

“Volunteering gives you purpose and a way to spend your free time,” MariAnne said.” They also volunteer to pick up trash on highway 127 and help with the annual community spring cleanup. 

Outside of volunteering at Walton Arts Center, the Retallicks live on Beaver Lake, and love to fish, boat, swim and hiking. Their grandkids in Kansas often come to visit.   

If you are looking to make new friends in a fun, creative environment and to support the arts in your local community, volunteering at Walton Arts Center is a great way to get involved. For more information about volunteering, please visit waltonartscenter.org/volunteer.  

A Her-story of the SIX Queens

From Tudor Queens to pop icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix 500 years of historical heartbreak into an exuberant celebration of 21st century girl power! This original new musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over.

SIX will take the stage for eight performances at Walton Arts Center Sept. 12-17, but before you see the show, use this guide to catch up on a 16th century her-story lesson.

---

Catherine of Aragon 

Birth and death 

December 15, 1485 – January 7, 1536 

Marriage 

One: to Arthur (Henry's older brother), November 14, 1501 (age 15). 

Two: to Henry VIII ( June 11, 1509 (age 23). 

Children 

Mary, born February 18, 1516 (later Queen Mary I). 

Catherine also had two other children who died as infants, three stillborn children and several miscarriages. 

Interests 

Religion, sewing, dancing, a bit more religion. 

Cause of death  

Maybe a type of cancer. 

Remembered for … 

Her refusal to accept that her marriage to Henry was invalid; her faith; her dramatic speech to Henry when he had her brought to court to seek the annulment of their marriage.  

Did you know? 

While Henry fought in France in 1513, Catherine was regent during the Battle of Flodden; when James IV of Scotland was killed in the battle, Catherine wanted to send his body to Henry as a present.  

Queenspiration

Beyoncé and Shakira.

Anne Boleyn 

Birth and death 

c. 1501 – May 19, 1536 

Marriage 

January 25, 1533 (age 31) 

Children 

Elizabeth, born September 7, 1533 (later Queen Elizabeth I). Anne also had at least two miscarriages. 

Interests 

Fashion, dancing, flirtation, collecting evangelical works. 

Queen Links 

Lady-in-waiting to Catherine of Aragon. 

Cause of death 

Executed on Tower Green, London. 

Remembered for …  

Headlessness; bringing about England’s break with the Pope, having a sixth fingernail. 

Did you know?  

Because she was fluent in French, Anne would have acted as a translator during the visit of Emperor Charles V to court in 1522.  

Queenspiration

Lily Allen and Avril Lavigne.

Jane Seymour 

Birth and death 

1507 or 1508 – October 24, 1537 

Marriage 

May 30, 1536 (age 28 or 29) 

Children 

Edward, born October 12, 1537 (later King Edward VI). 

Interests 

Religious Faith, obedience. 

Queen Links 

Lady-in-waiting to Anne Boleyn. 

Cause of death 

Hemorrhage after the birth of Prince Edward; her child with Henry. 

Remembered for … 

Being the “only one he truly loved,” having two troublesome brothers who fought over the regency of the young Prince Edward after King Henry’s death. 

Did you know? 

While Anne Boleyn was still alive, Henry sent Jane a gift of money which she refused, apparently saying there “was no treasure in this world that she valued so much as her honor.”  

Queenspiration

Adele and Sia.

 Anna of Cleves 

Birth and death 

1515 – July 16, 1557 

Marriage

January 6. 1540 (age 24) 

Children 

None. 

Interests 

Staying alive. 

Queen links 

Anna visited Katherine Howard once she became queen and bowed to her. 

Cause of death 

Probably cancer. 

Remembered for … 

Being chosen from her portrait and then rejected when Henry met her. 

Did you know?  

When Henry first met Anna of Cleves, he disguised himself, possibly imagining some sort of romantic reaction. According to a witness, when Henry kissed Anna, she turned away coldly from the hideous stranger molesting her. The witness, Lord Russel, observed that he “never saw His Highness so marvelously astonished.”  

Queenspiration

Nicki Minaj and Rihanna.

Katherine Howard

Birth and death 

c. 1523 – February 13, 1542 

Marriage  

July 28, 1540 (age 17)  

Children 

None. 

Interests 

Religious faith, obedience. 

Queen Links 

Lady-in-waiting to Anna of Cleves; cousin to Anne Boleyn. 

Cause of death 

Executed on the Tower Green, London. 

Remembered for … 

Being completely used (and abused) by those with power over her. 

Did you know? 

From her arrest on November 8, 1541 until her execution three months later, Katherine stayed under arrest at Syon House; in late January 1542, an act was passed in Parliament that rendered it treason for a woman to become the king’s wife without “plain declaration before her unchaste life,” meaning Henry could have her killed.  

Queenspiration

Ariana Grande and Britney Spears.

Catherine Parr 

Birth and death 

c. 1512 – September 5, 1548 

Marriage 

One: to Sir Edward Burg, a courtier, 1529-1533 

Two: to John Neville, Lord Latimer, 1534-1543 

Three: To Henry VIII, July 12, 1543 

Four: in secret to Thomas Seymour, May, 1547 

Children 

A daughter (to Thomas Seymour) who died as an infant.  

Interests 

Writing books, encouraging education, the Reformation.

Queen Links 

Catherine’s mother was lady-in-waiting to Catherine of Aragon, and Catherine Parr was friendly with Aragon's daughter, Princess Mary.  

Cause of death 

Childbirth. 

Remembered for … 

Surviving. 

Did you know?  

Catherine was the first woman in England to publish books under her own name and in English.  

Queenspiration

Alicia Keys and Emili Sandé.

Photo credits: Joan Marcus

Single tickets to SIX and the rest of 2023-24 Broadway and regular season shows will be available later this summer. 

Broadway subscriptions are on sale now, and a subscription is the best way to guarantee tickets to all shows. Six-show Broadway subscription packages range from $301 to $458 for Tuesday and Wednesday evening and Thursday matinee, and $366 to $533 for Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening, and Saturday and Sunday matinees. Subscriptions are available now for a limited time and can be renewed or purchased online at waltonartscenter.org, by calling the subscriber concierge at 479.571.2785 or in person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm.

10x10 Questions with Fiercely Original Group Duwendé

Duwendé is an award-winning a cappella vocal band and the headlining event of this year’s annual VoiceJam A Cappella Festival April 14-15. This six-person group is known for their fiercely original bass-and-beatbox style, earning acclaim across the globe. They have performed at the Java Jazz Festival in Jakarta, the United Nations, Save the Children Benefit Dinner, The Bill Clinton Global Initiative, World AIDS Day, Sundance Film Festival and more. With over 10 million views on Youtube, Duwendé is fast on the rise to an exciting and dynamic future. 

In keeping with our 10x10 series, we sat down with Duwendé’s Ed Chung ahead of their performance at Walton Arts Center at 8 pm on Friday, April 14.  

---

 What can audiences expect from your performance?  

Audiences can expect to get up and dance! The music we choose to perform tends to appeal to multiple generations of music lovers, so there’s something for everyone to love. 

What is the favorite part of your set? 

The opening number! It’s fun to catch audiences by surprise and to give them an idea of what’s about to happen for the remainder of the set. 

What drew you to the a cappella musical form?  

We all have varied musical backgrounds, but we share a common interest in classic ‘80s and ‘90s pop and R&B, particularly artists like Michael Jackson and Prince. Jackson’s use of beatboxing and vocal “instruments” in his recordings led us to learn from other artists, and eventually, led us to a cappella. Legendary groups like Take 6 further solidified our personal interests in pursuing the art form professionally. 

How did you come up with your group name?  

Like most bands, we took a vote! In the early days, we each put name suggestions into the proverbial hat and narrowed our choices down to two — Duwendé and Challenge of the Super Friends. It remains a hot debate whether we chose wisely. 

“Resist the urge to do what everyone else is doing.”

- Ed Chung

Do you have any pre-show rituals or warm-ups?  

We run a specific part of a song that we want to make sure we execute properly. We will often take the last moment before hopping onstage to do a collective fist bump and remind each other to have fun and that we have each other’s back.  

Pick 5 words to best describe your work.  

Exciting, original, energetic, nostalgic and authentic. 

What song, artists or genres are you currently listening to?  

Our individual music tastes vary wildly, but a few artists that we all enjoy currently are Beyonce, Bruno Mars, Harry Styles and the like. Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson and Prince are always in the rotation as well. 

What is a unique memory that you have from travelling the world?  

Our first tour of Japan stands out as a favorite memory. Knowing that we had quite a strong fan base there, we were so excited to finally be able to travel to the country but didn’t know quite what to expect. It turned out to be an amazing experience! The country, the people and the sold-out shows were all remarkable and we ended up experiencing a tour that, quite frankly, will forever be hard to top. 

What is the best advice you have received about being an artist?  

Resist the urge to do what everyone else is doing and do whatever you can to make your own mark. 

You’ve performed at so many notable events, can you talk about what these experiences have meant for your career?    

While we’ve been fortunate enough to be able to perform for some truly career defining events, the main takeaway for us has been the common thread through it all — the power that music has on people. Whether it’s for five people or 5,000 people, there’s a mystical exchange of joy that happens when music is performed live and we feel privileged to be able to play a part. 

---

Don’t miss the aca-spectacular kickoff to VoiceJam with Duwendé. All tickets are $10.

Get to Know your 2023 VoiceJam Competitors Pt. 2

The annual VoiceJam A Cappella Festival has become a fan-favorite event of the season, hosting an entire weekend of opportunities to experience, learn, perform and compete. The weekend kicks off with professional headliner Duwendé on April 14 and continues with an entire day of workshops for anyone interested in learning more about a cappella.  

The grand finale, the VoiceJam Competition is back and better than ever, bringing some of the best a cappella groups from across the country to Walton Arts Center at 7:30 pm on Saturday, April 15. Keep reading to get to know this year’s competitors. 

---

A-Side – College Station, TX 

How did your group get started?   

Our group originally started in the early 2000s. While other high schools were focusing on show choir, our choir director, Travis Angel, wanted to do something different. He discovered contemporary a cappella for high school students and loved the challenge and musicality that comes from the genre. Each year a new group is created with new sounds, memories and dance moves.  

What is the musical background of your group?  

Our group is filled with students who have sung in traditional middle and high school choirs, as well as people who played in band and participated in musical theater. Two of our members were named top two percent of bass high school singers in the state of Texas. Our group members also play multiple varsity sports, lead clubs as presidents, help create the yearbook, run the school store, dance professionally, volunteer countless hours and more! 

Tell us about your set. Do you have a favorite part of it to perform?  

Our set is extremely fun to sing. We try to make every element of the music have purpose – the silence is just as important as the singing. We hope to spread a message of hope even through complex situations. Sometimes it takes a twisted journey to get to where we need to be but in the end, we can be thankful for the destination. 

Does your group have any pre-show rituals?  

Other than the freak out and nerves which is universal to all performing groups? While the girls get ready, the guys listen to the entire Pink Floyd album Dark Side of the Moon in the dark while lying on the floor.  

Mind the Gap – Eugene, OR 

How did your group get started? 

Mind the Gap was founded in 2007 by a few students at the University of Oregon. Since then, we have been performing at gigs around the Pacific Northwest as well as competing at the national level. We aim to create a fun and welcoming environment to make music together. 
 

Tell us the musical background of your group. 

Our group is made up of all different types of students at the University of Oregon. Although we do have some music majors in the group, our areas of interest span from economics to environmental studies. However, our experiences with music are similar in that a lot of us have grade school choir experience and some of us play an instrument or two. A lot of members have also gotten into arranging pieces for the group which has been super fun as an activity to collaborate and grow our knowledge and experience together. 
 

Tell us about your set and do you have a favorite part of it to perform? 

As a group, we decided on the story and message we wanted to convey through our set, which has really helped us all connect with the music. We’re really proud of what we’ve created together and can’t wait to perform at the VoiceJam Competition in 2023. 
 

Does your group have any pre-show rituals? 

Usually, myself and the music director, Chloe Scheid, will say a few words to the group and give other group members an opportunity to hype each other up. We have a usual set of warm-ups that we run through too. After the show, we always huddle in a circle and express our feelings about the show and chant a phrase relevant to the performance together. Traditions like these affirm our sense of community. 

Euphoria – Allendale, MI 

How did your group get started?  

Our group consists of 15 very talented individuals of all voice parts, a variety of majors and varying levels of musical experience. We all come together for our shared love of music and performance. We typically perform pop, indie and rock genres, but we are open to trying anything!  

Tell us the musical background of your group.  

Our set takes the audience on a journey through the response to grief. However, we leave room for interpretation, so anyone can apply the emotions to any particular situation they have experienced.  

Our favorite piece to perform is “Moderation” by Florence and the Machine. We focus on the bounce back that typically happens eventually after a breakup or loss, trying to convince yourself that you are okay. The song is sassy and jazzy and our soloist brings the house down. Overall, our set is reflective and emotional, while still being upbeat and exciting to listen to. We have put our hearts and souls into this set and we are beyond excited to bring it to the VoiceJam stage! 

Tell us about your set and do you have a favorite part of it to perform?  

We always have a group speech, usually our president will speak to get us in the zone. We then have a chant, where we say, "We sing, you listen, we all experience, Euphoria!" It never fails to get us in the performance mindset.  

---

Don’t miss the aca-spectacular musical showdown. Tickets are $27 plus applicable fees, or purchase a combo ticket to see both Duwendé and the VoiceJam Competition for $29.

Get To Know Your 2023 VoiceJam Competitors Pt. 1

The annual VoiceJam A Cappella Festival has become a fan-favorite event of the season, hosting an entire weekend of opportunities to experience, learn, perform and compete. The weekend kicks off with professional headliner Duwendé on April 14 and continues with an entire day of workshops for anyone interested in learning more about a cappella.  

The grand finale, the VoiceJam Competition is back and better than ever, bringing some of the best a cappella groups from across the country to Walton Arts Center at 7:30 pm on Saturday, April 15. Keep reading to get to know this year’s competitors.  

---

VIBE – Dallas, TX  

How did your group get started? 

After several years of performing together in college, many of us wanted to continue singing with each other. VIBE was created as an outlet for our artistic needs. As we continued to compete in various competitions, we began collecting new family members from across the country who were equally as passionate about a cappella as we were.  

What is the musical background of your group? 

Our style spans many music genres including pop, soul, indie and R&B. Regardless of the song, we always put our soulful flare on anything we sing. 

Tell us about your set. Do you have a favorite part of your set to perform?  

One of our favorite moments in the set is the “Human Heart” number. It's a gentle and vulnerable reminder that we – as musicians, friends, families, and performers – only have one heart to offer in this life and to make the most of every moment.  

Does your group have any pre-show rituals? 

Before every performance, we start with a group circle offstage where we collectively do a breathing routine to get the nerves in check and to unify with each other one last time before heading out to perform. 

Walk the Line – Rockwall, TX 

How did your group get started?   

We already had a vocal ensemble at Rockwall High School but decided to start an a cappella group in 2015. We have competed and attended competitions every year since, including twice at the International Championship of High School A Cappella competition – we won second place last year.   

What is the musical background of your group?  

We love to perform at competitions and festivals. Being on stage is the best part of a cappella. We also love recording our music and are proud to have both albums released on all platforms. We have had a few songs featured on Voices Only and Varsity Vocals’ best of a cappella albums BOHSA albums in the past few years. We’re excited to have our third album come out later this year! 

Tell us about your set. Do you have a favorite part of it to perform?  

Our set follows a love story from the relationship’s conception to its demise. We love performing “Reckless Driving” by Lizzy McAlpine and Ben Kessler because it illustrates the intense, combative perspectives of two people drifting apart. It’s emotionally charged, and our choreography helps tell the story in an impactful way.  

Does your group have any pre-show rituals?   

Before every performance, we set time aside to rehearse our set and then have some circle time together. It's a time for us to connect with each other on a deeper level and talk about anything and everything. We usually start with words of encouragement and gratitude. It lifts us up and puts us in a collaborative state for the day. While getting ready for the shows, it’s also not uncommon for a few TikToks to be made for bonding and community engagement. 

Trillium – Dallas, TX 

How did your group get started?   

Our group started as an idea between co-creators Hannah Howard and Wennie Grogan. Towards the end of our senior year, we decided we didn’t want our a cappella journey to end yet, so we decided to create a vocal group based in Dallas, hoping to reach people with our creative play on a cappella and have a space to have fun and create. We got our name, Trillium, from a beautiful flower with many colors, highlighting our group's goal to continue growing together as musicians and pointing to our group motto: “bloom from within.”  

What is the musical background of your group? 

All of our members come from a former high school a cappella group and competed nationally. We are super proud of our group members – they all bring creativity and fun to the group. 

Tell us about your set. Do you have a favorite part of it to perform?  

Our set is composed of three songs, which gradually get slower and show an almost reversed sense of growth throughout the songs. Our favorite song to perform is called “The Intro,” and when you come see us perform you will find out why! 

Does your group have any pre-show rituals?  

Not really any pre-show rituals yet, maybe a small prayer before we go on. 

---

Don’t miss the aca-spectacular musical showdown. Tickets are $27 plus applicable fees, or purchase a combo ticket to see both Duwendé and the VoiceJam Competition for $29.