WELCOME TO THE LIED CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS!
WELCOME TO
THE 2025-2026
SEASON AT THE LIED CENTER!
Sharing an exceptional performing arts experience with family and friends is truly one of life’s great joys. There are few times when we are more connected to those around us than when we’re seated together in a theater, witnessing something thrilling or inspirational or entertaining. For an hour or two, we escape the real world and travel to a place of laughter, romance, beauty, excitement, culture and so many things that fill our souls.
Every season at the Lied is unique, combining encore performances from legendary artists with breathtaking talent that has never graced the Lied Center stage. This season we are thrilled to welcome back many of our favorite artists of all time! The Boston Pops under the baton of Keith Lockhart, the internationally celebrated Philadelphia Orchestra , Second City, and Stars of American Ballet all return to the Lied Center as many of our community’s favorite ensembles.
The Glenn Korff Broadway series continues in 2026 with The Music Man and SUFFS , the new hit musical making its Nebraska premiere. Winner of the 2024 Tony Awards for Best Score and Best Book of a Musical, this moving show tells the story of the brave, passionate, funny, inspirational women who fought to win the right for women to vote in the United States.
There’s so much to be excited about this season ( The Moth! Dirty Dancing in Concert! Gunhild Carling! Capital City, a new play commissioned by the Lied! ), and I hope you’ll take the opportunity to experience countless date nights, outings with the family, or the best of times with friends featuring the world’s best music, theater and dance artists. Take the time now to plan and schedule your favorite moments of the year with us. Life is short. Eat the cake. Buy the tickets. Enjoy these once-in-alifetime moments that we can treasure together forever.
Bill Stephan, Executive Director & Chief Artistic Officer, Lied Center for Performing Arts
LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The Lied Center for Performing Arts honors and acknowledges that it resides on the traditional and unceded territories of the Pawnee, Ponca, Otoe-Missouria, Umo n ho n , Dakota, Lakota, Arapaho, Cheyenne and Kaw Peoples, as well as the relocated Ho Chunk (Winnebago) , Iowa and Sac and Fox Peoples. We pay our respects to Elders past, present, and future.
May this acknowledgment affirm the Lied Center’s commitment to building and strengthening partnerships with vibrant Indigenous communities who continue to thrive and honor their sacred connection to this land.
Photo Credit: Ethan Freese
HIXSON-LIED
LEGACY
Ernst F. Lied and Christina Hixson have transformed the lives of millions of Americans through the Lied Foundation Trust with philanthropic contributions of more than $300 million to over 125 different organizations in seven states.
Born in 1906, Ernst F. Lied was a 1927 graduate of the University of Nebraska. He achieved business success as the owner of a Buick dealership in Omaha and as a real estate magnate in Las Vegas. Having no living relatives, he established a trust in 1972, and upon his death in 1980, his secretary and business partner Christina Hixson was appointed to administer the foundation.
The first gift from the Lied Foundation Trust was a $10 million matching grant to build the Lied Center for Performing Arts in the early 1980s at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in memory of Lied’s parents, Ernst M. and Ida K. Lied. The Lied Foundation Trust went on to support many projects in Nebraska, including Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo Lied Jungle, the Lied Lodge in Nebraska City, and the Lied Transplant Center at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
“ THE LIED CENTER’S MOST IMPORTANT ROLE IS TO INTRODUCE INDIVIDUALS FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE AND CULTURAL BACKGROUNDS TO ENRICHING AND DIVERSE PERFORMING ARTS EXPERIENCES.
Christina Hixson
Christina Hixson first partnered with Lied in 1944 as his secretary at the Omaha Buick dealership, and she followed him to Las Vegas as a business partner in 1960. After Lied’s death, Hixson became the executrix of his estate and continues to serve as the Lied Foundation’s sole trustee. It was Hixson who made the decision to support the construction of the Lied Center for Performing Arts.
In 2000, she also announced a gift of $18 million to support UNL’s Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts. One of the last major gifts of the Lied Foundation Trust was a $2.5 million grant for the construction of the Lied Center’s new multipurpose space, the Lied Commons, which opened in 2012. Together, Lied and Hixson built a multimillion-dollar empire that has positively impacted the lives of millions of people in Nebraska and across the nation.
LIED CENTER STAFF
BILL STEPHAN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CHIEF ARTISTIC OFFICER
BUSINESS SERVICES
Natalie Stroud, Associate Executive Director
Sharon Burkle, Finance Specialist
Jesse Dillman, Data Systems Manager
Rose Khorsandi, Administrative Projects Coordinator
Paige Patton, Programs & Events Specialist
Michelle Zinke, Administrative Coordinator
DEVELOPMENT
Amy Ossian, Associate Director of Development & Membership
Ben Cuca, Development Coordinator
Hannah Miller, Administrative & Development Associate
EDUCATION & ARTS PROGRAMS
Jane Schiermeyer Hansen, Education & Community Engagement Director
Sasha Dobson, Education Outreach Manager
Nancy Engen-Wedin, Education & Grant Programs Manager
EVENTS & FACILITIES
Mark Moore, Associate Director of Events & Facilities
Casey Barnett, Custodial Leader
Bethany Blackman, Usher & Events Coordinator
Stacy Brand, Assistant Facility Services Manager
Laura Ekinde, Custodian
Holden Franken, Events Coordinator
Steve Pearson, Event Services Manager
Christian Richey, Building & Grounds Attendant
Jillian Stewart, Assistant Custodial Services Manager
Jayden Taylor, Custodian
PRODUCTION
Jesse Snyder, Director of Production
Mike Doran, Audio & Production Specialist
Raymond Guern, Production Technician
Jason Hibbard, Production Coordinator
Melanie Rudy, Production & Broadcasting Associate
Ted Tipton, Associate Technical Director
MARKETING & PUBLIC RELATIONS
Matthew Boring, Deputy Director
Lauren Durban, Communications Manager
Andrea Fabiano, Marketing Projects Coordinator
Thao Huynh, Graphics Specialist
TICKET OFFICE
Ginger Dzerk, Associate Director of Ticketing & Patron Services
Kelly Buresh, Group Sales Manager
Drew Caskey, Administrative Ticket Office Manager
John Fucinaro, Ticketing Operations & Sales Manager
UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA FOUNDATION
Barbara Kohler, Director of Development
EMERITA
Lucy Buntain Comine, Senior Development Director
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
ARRIVING FOR A PERFORMANCE
Performance times vary. Please check your ticket or call 402.472.4747 to confirm starting times. Ushers will seat latecomers at an appropriate time to minimize disruption. For most performances, the lobby will open one hour prior to show time, and the auditorium doors will be open 30 minutes before the show.
ADMISSION
Regardless of age, every person must have a ticket for admission. Children under age 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all Lied Center events.
PARKING
There are many nearby parking options in downtown Lincoln. For more information, visit the City of Lincoln Parking Services website at ParkAndGo.org.
VALET PARKING
The Lied offers limited valet parking for most Lied Season main stage season events. Purchase your valet parking in advance at liedcenter.org/parking or through the Lied ticket office at 402-472-4747.
ACCESSIBLE SEATING
All Lied Center venues have wheelchairand scooter-accessible locations where patrons can remain in their wheelchairs or transfer to theater seats. Patrons with mobility disabilities should request accessible seating when ordering tickets. For website orders at liedcenter.org, accessible seats in the main hall are marked with the ISA symbol. Lied Center staff are not able to physically assist patrons with chair transfers. Should you require direct physical assistance, please plan to attend with a personal care attendant. Guests of patrons with disabilities must purchase a ticket to attend performances. Lied Center ushers are happy to provide seating in the observation room should a patron need to leave the theater at any point during a performance.
ASSISTED LISTENING DEVICES
Assisted listening devices, including hearing loop adapters, are provided at the coat check. ASL interpretation is available when requested at least two weeks in advance.
SENSORY BAGS
Sensory bags are available for check out at coat check. They include items that help individuals manage sensory sensitivities in busy or loud environments.
LARGE-PRINT PROGRAMS & AUDIO
DESCRIPTION
PDF programs are available to patrons with visual impairment when requested at least 48 hours in advance. Audio description is available when requested at least two weeks in advance.
OBSERVATION ROOM
Patrons are welcome to use the observation room at the rear of the theater to view performances. The room is separated from the audience by glass and provides a place to see and hear the show without disturbing other guests. Ask an usher for assistance.
RESTROOM & COAT CHECK
Coatrooms, public restrooms, and drinking fountains are all conveniently located throughout the Lied Center. Please ask an usher for assistance if you have trouble locating them.
CONCESSIONS
A variety of snacks and beverages, including coffee, cookies, cocktails, and more, are available for purchase in the lobby.
ELECTRONICS
We ask that you turn off all noise-making electronics, including cellphones, during Lied Center performances. Due to copyright restrictions on the artists’ work, taking pictures and video is prohibited at all performances (unless specified by the artist).
NO SMOKING
No tobacco products may be used in facilities of the University of Nebraska– Lincoln, including the Lied Center. This includes electronic cigarettes or other forms of electronic smoking. The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is smoke-free, tobacco-free, and vapor-free. Learn more at go.unl.edu/quit.
EMERGENCIES
Please take a moment to identify the nearest exit in case evacuation is necessary. If you hear a weather emergency announcement while outside the seating area, please return to your seat and await instructions.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
The safety and security of our guests, as well as artists, volunteers, and staff are a top priority for the Lied Center. All patrons and their belongings are subject to search upon entering our facilities. By presenting your ticket and entering our venue, you consent to such screenings. Persons who refuse screening may be denied entry into our venues. More information can be found on liedcenter.org in the FAQ under Security Policies.
INCLEMENT WEATHER
Wondering if the show will go on? Visit LiedCenter.org or our Facebook page to get up-to-date information regarding show status during inclement weather.
DANCING POLICY
Patrons may dance in the area immediately in front of their seats as long as it is carried out in a manner that is respectful of other audience members. Dancing in the aisles and other common areas will not be permitted for safety reasons.
PERFUME
As a courtesy to other Lied patrons, we ask that you please refrain from wearing strong cologne and perfumes during Lied Center performances. Scented products can trigger mild to extremely severe allergic reactions and asthma and respiratory attacks. Thank you for your cooperation.
COUGH DROPS
Cough drops are available from Red Cross on second floor upon request.
PRE-TALKS
A 15-minute pre-performance talk, delivered by a local expert, is held 30 minutes prior to most Lied Season main stage events. Talks are designed to provide background information on artists and shows in order to increase audience enjoyment of events. Seating is limited.
FAMFEST
FamFest activities start 90 minutes before each FamFest performance. FamFest provides free food and fun hands-on activities for the whole family!
GROUP SALES
Discounts for groups of 10 or more are available for most Lied Center presented Season performances. Contact Kelly Buresh at 402.472.4734 or visit liedcenter.org/groups for more information.
TOURS
Tours of the Lied Center are available Monday through Friday, 9am–5pm. Tours must be prearranged on an individual basis and depend on room availability. Email Steve Pearson at spearson5@unl.edu for more information or to schedule a tour.
VOLUNTEER USHERS
Interested in becoming a volunteer usher at the Lied Center? Contact Bethany Blackman at bblackman@unl.edu to learn more.
TICKET OFFICE HOURS
Monday–Friday / 11am–3pm
For most main stage performances, the Ticket Office opens two hours prior to the event, and remains open 15 minutes after the show’s scheduled start time. For events in other venues, Ticket Office personnel are on-site one hour prior to the event.
CONTACT INFO
402.472.4747
LiedCustomerService@unl.edu
We recommend that you allow sufficient time before a performance and review paid parking options available at the listed locations.
VISIT LIEDCENTER.ORG/PARKING FOR MORE INFORMATION.
BE SOCIABLE, SHARE #AtTheLIED
University of Nebraska–Lincoln Lied Center for Performing Arts Ticket Office 301 North 12th Street P.O. Box 880157 Lincoln, NE 68588 Excited for an upcoming performance? Let your friends know! The Lied Center utilizes most social media channels including Facebook, Twitter,
and Spotify. Stay up-to-date on all Lied Center announcements, giveaways and special discounts by
A WELCOME TO THE LIED CENTER FROM PRESIDENT JEFF GOLD
The value of higher education extends beyond the degrees students receive and the research that changes so many lives. The University of Nebraska is an economic engine for the state, driving growth and success—and it’s also a cultural engine for Nebraska.
The arts better our quality of life, create social bonds and help us to think more broadly about the human experience.
From music to dance, theatre programs to lecture series, athletic events to art, the university’s four campuses contribute to a thriving arts and cultural community.
The Lied Center is an important contributor to this work. The Lied Center’s programs and engagement across the state create new knowledge and enrich lives.
I’m proud to have this gem as part of our university. The fine and performing arts truly play an important role in making Nebraska a great place to live and work.
JEFFREY P. GOLD, M.D. President, University of Nebraska System
NOTES FROM COMMUNITY LEADERS
On behalf of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, welcome to the Lied Center, Nebraska’s home for the arts. Whether you’ve traveled from across the state or across the globe, we are thrilled to have you here. At UNL, we empower generations to lead boldly, courageously, and with purpose greater than ourselves. While much of our work sustains and strengthens our world, the arts inspire, uplift, and bring us together in uniquely powerful ways. The Lied Center offers Huskers unparalleled opportunities to experience live performance at its finest — from world-class musicians and dancers to innovative theater and cultural events that celebrate creativity in every form. Thank you for joining us and for sharing in the joy, inspiration, and connection that the arts bring to our community.
KATHERINE S. ANKERSON, INTERIM CHANCELLOR, UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA–LINCOLN
“All roads lead to Lincoln – and fortunately for us, those roads are traveled by some of the most talented and impressive performers of our time! Congratulations to the Lied Center for creating a spectacular season that is sure to entertain, thrill, and inspire audiences of all ages.
LEIRION GAYLOR BAIRD MAYOR OF LINCOLN
Here in Lincoln, it can feel easy to take for granted the many popular musicals, intricate ballets, captivating plays, and other incredible performances we are able to witness each year at the Lied Center for Performing Arts. After all, the Lied has been here for 35 years, serving as a hub for high-quality programming and world-class performances since it opened in 1990. But as my family and I return to the Lied year after year — whether it’s for time-honored holiday traditions like Mannheim Steamroller or exciting, family-friendly Broadway hits like Disney’s Frozen — I’m reminded of how important it is to recognize how fortunate we are to have a place like this right here at home. That’s why Union Bank is proud to support the Lied Center’s mission of educating, inspiring, and entertaining the people of Nebraska through the performing arts. If you are so inclined and have the means, I encourage you to join us in supporting the Lied Center to help ensure our community will be able to enjoy moments like these and create lasting memories for years to come.
JASON MUHLEISEN PRESIDENT AND CEO OF UNION BANK AND TRUST
Fulfilling life is what we do every day at Ameritas. We support the performing arts because it enriches lives—and our community—by creating opportunities to enjoy life at its very best. This is why we are so proud to sponsor Lied Center performances.
BRENT KORTE SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER, AMERITAS
The anticipation I feel waiting for a show to begin… the emotions felt listening to a world class vocalist, the intense emotions that are stirred from a virtuosic piano player, tapping my foot along to show tunes from musicals or learning about an historical time period in a play are among the many reasons I am proud to support the Friends of Lied. The arts unite us.
Becoming a Friends of Lied member is easy and the benefits are many. For a donation of as little as $50, you become part of an amazing group supporting arts in Nebraska at the Lied Center. Additionally, you are supporting Arts Across Nebraska which brings performances to small towns across the state. You are supporting master classes for UNL students who get to train with some of the greatest talents in the world. You are supporting the Nebraska Triple Threat: a summer intensive where high school students improve upon their talents with Broadway actors and musicians. You are supporting FamFest programming for young kids to enrich their learning. The Lied Center for Performing Arts is so much more than just performances and ticket sales cover less than 50 percent of the cost of putting on a show.
The Friends of Lied Board of Directors consists of members across the state who fundraise and provide awareness of the mission of the Lied Center – To Educate, Inspire and Entertain. This fun, passionate and committed group of individuals support the Lied Center in many ways. Our annual gala is an extraordinary event that last year raised $170,000. We also put on member appreciation events, pre-performance dinners and so much more. If you’d be interested in serving the Friends of Lied in this capacity, we’d love to have you.
As the arts are under attack, now more than ever, your support of the arts is critical to promoting the mission of the Lied Center for Performing Arts. We cannot sustain the mission without you. Please consider joining Friends of Lied.
DEB NELSON PRESIDENT, FRIENDS OF LIED
“ “As a lifelong resident of this great city, I have had the good fortune of experiencing the magic that happens inside the Lied Center on many occasions. The performing arts enrich our lives in so many ways. They have the capacity to appeal to us emotionally and intellectually while expanding our horizons and habits of thought. The Lied Center attracts the finest performing artists in the world and provides the residents of Nebraska with profound opportunities to experience the arts. FMNE Insurance (formerly Farmers Mutual of Nebraska) is a proud supporter of the Lied Center and the wonderful contribution that it makes to the quality of life we enjoy here in Nebraska.
MARK WALZ BOARD CHAIRMAN & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, FMNE INSURANCE
The Lied Center for Performing Arts is an important partner to the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts and allows our students, faculty and staff to experience world-class artists on stage and in the classroom. These experiences help our students observe what it takes to perform at the highest level.
Our deepest thanks to Miss Christina Hixson and the Lied Foundation Trust for their vision to create this facility that enhances all the arts in Nebraska, as well as their support for the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts.
Enjoy the performances this season at the Lied Center. We also invite you to visit arts.unl.edu for information on our student and faculty performances. We look forward to welcoming you to our new Westbrook Music Building, renovated Kimball Recital Hall and other performance and exhibition spaces this season!
ANDY BELSER DEAN, HIXSON-LIED COLLEGE OF FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS
“ “
The Lied Center for Performing Arts brings vibrancy, creativity, and diversity to Lincoln and the entire state of Nebraska. Through its engaging entertainment and educational programs, it enriches our communities and broadens our horizons.
As a mutual organization built on the principle of bringing people together for the common good, Assurity is honored to support a world-class performing arts venue that creates exceptional shared experiences for all.
We applaud the Lied Center as it raises the curtain on another outstanding season.
SUSIE KEISLER-MUNRO PRESIDENT AND CEO, ASSURITY
“
FNBO is committed to contributing to the strength of our communities, and one measure of a successful community is its vibrant and robust culture. By supporting organizations that expose individuals to the arts, cultures, humanities and athletics, we are investing in the future of our city and what it cares about. FNBO is proud to continue our tradition of partnership with the Lied Center, and we support their dedication to bringing world-class entertainment to the Lincoln area.
NATHAN S. MCKOWN MANAGING DIRECTOR, COMMERCIAL BANKING, LINCOLN, NE, FNBO
SEASON SPONSORS 2025-2026 SPONSORS
At Ameritas, fulfilling life is what we do daily. This means helping our customers enjoy life at its very best. It’s about reducing uncertainty, helping grow assets, and protecting what is most cherished. As a mutually based organization, we put our customers first. Backed by a foundation of financial strength, we offer a competitive array of insurance, retirement, and investment products. Securities offered through affiliate Ameritas Investment Company LLC., member FINRA/SIPC and investment advisory services offered through the business name of Ameritas Advisory Services.
The Friends of Lied is a membership organization of over 1,300 members, governed by a board of directors from across the state of Nebraska. Its purpose is to support and promote the Lied Center through education experiences, fundraising, social events, and service. The Friends of Lied is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, serving as a support group for the Lied Center for Performing Arts. Contributions to the Friends of Lied are tax-deductible, and membership starts at just $50. Since its inception in 1989, the Friends of Lied has contributed over $9 million in support of the Lied Center’s mission to educate, inspire, and entertain the people of Nebraska through the performing arts. Visit liedcenter.org/friends to learn more.
UBT is a locally owned bank that takes a personal approach to providing a breadth of services with a warm, helpful personality. Major turning points in your life—first car, first job, going to college, getting married, a new home, having children, retirement—are what UBT loves to help you with. At UBT, people don’t have your money— your money has people.
OVATION SERIES SPONSOR
PRESENTER SPONSORS
PRODUCER SPONSORS
DIRECTOR SPONSORS
SEASON LIEDERS 2025-2026
LARRY & LUCY BUNTAIN COMINE
Larry and Lucy are proud to return as Lied Center Season Lieders for the 2025–2026 season! They have been Lied supporters and leaders for many years, including as Season Lieders for the past several seasons. Lucy serves as the Lied Center’s Senior Development Director Emerita. She has made a major impact in building the Lied Center’s artistic programs, including the Glenn Korff Broadway Series and the Lied’s Command Performance of American Ballet Theatre with Misty Copeland and the St. Louis Symphony. During her time with the University of Nebraska Foundation, Lucy played a lead role in developing the arts at UNL, including the creation of the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts, Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film, Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center, Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts and much more. She has a passion for Broadway, dance and a wide variety of art forms. Larry and Lucy enjoy supporting and advocating for Nebraska’s performing arts center, and their positive impact on the Lied will last long into the future.
LIANA SANDIN
The Pearle Francis Finigan Foundation, guided by Liana Sandin, has endeavored to make a significant impact on Nebraska's cultural scene. Their unwavering support has not only enriched the arts community in Lincoln but also fostered a broader appreciation for all the arts, especially classical music. By partnering with educational and humanitarian organizations, they have ensured that the arts remain accessible and relevant to diverse audiences. The Lied Center's world-class performances share the foundation's vision of a vibrant cultural milieu, where the arts are celebrated and cherished as a vital part of the community's fabric. This commitment to the arts is a powerful reminder of how dedicated patronage can inspire and elevate a region's cultural heritage.
BILL BUNTAIN
Returning to Lincoln after leaving in 1985 to launch a career in the music business, Bill is excited to support the Lied Center and its 2025–2026 Season. A graduate of Lincoln High and UNL, he spent the past 35 years on the road managing finance and logistics for live concert tours for a range of rock and pop artists. His first tour was with the B-52s Cosmic Tour in 1990, and over the years he’s worked with Ozzy Osbourne, Janet Jackson, CHER, P!NK, and Tina Turner.
“Growing up in Lincoln, we didn’t have a dedicated performing arts center, so I saw touring Broadway shows at the Stuart Theater and Pershing Auditorium. We often had to travel to Omaha or Kansas City to see the most current productions. My family also produced the summer musicals at Pinewood Bowl in the late 1970s, and I probably caught the entertainment bug during those summers.”
Since moving back to Lincoln part-time in 2022, Bill has attended several performances at the Lied Center and continues to be amazed by both the quality and quantity of the programming. Whether you’re seeing a play for the first time, or revisiting one of your favorites, seeing a show at the Lied is a reminder of how good it feels to experience something live—and together.
GEOFF & KRISTEN CLINE
We are thrilled to support the Lied Center in its mission to "educate, inspire and entertain" as Season Lieders for the 2025–2026 season. We have formed many wonderful memories with our children at Lied Center performances, and we appreciate the Lied's efforts to extend this opportunity to all students in our community and beyond. The Lied provides unique and meaningful outreach and educational experiences — from a 9-year-old's eye-opening first visit to a Lied Center matinee, to the chance for a UNL student to hone their craft in a master class, and so much more.
Kristen serves on the Lied Center Statewide Advisory Board and the
Lincoln Children’s Zoo Board of Directors and previously served as President of the Friends of Lied Board of Directors. Geoff is the managing partner of Orange Street Group and serves on the boards of the Sheldon Art Association, United Way, and Public Art Lincoln.
We believe arts education and firsthand experiences are critical to the success of our students and our community.
RYAN GROSS & BETH BARGER
The Lied Center for Performing Arts has always held a special place in Ryan and Beth's hearts and lives. They are honored to be Season Lieders and support the Lied Center for Performing Arts and all the artists, creators and storytellers who perform there. The arts have always been an important part of their lives and a gateway to expanding their understanding of the world and the amazing artists who create in it each day.
As a child Ryan would listen to his grandfather play the dulcimer by ear without any formal music training. He would play for those in his community including those in retirement homes, community and cultural events and for his family. He loved bringing people together through music. Beth has been involved in music and the arts her entire life. She was a member of multiple bands in school, and her children have all followed by learning to play musical instruments and all enjoy visual arts and theater. Her eldest daughter is currently enrolled in the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts. The Lied Center for Performing Arts brings world-class, culturally diverse arts to our community. They are proud to support it and hope all that attend these shows are inspired by these great artists and performers.
CHUCK & KAREN HARRIS
We are pleased to participate in the Lied as Season Lieders for the 2025–2026 season. Both lifelong Nebraskans, Karen grew up in Lincoln and graduated from UNL, and Chuck grew up in York and is a University of Minnesota graduate. We have been honored to participate in various Lied organizations, including as members of the Lied Center’s 25th Anniversary Sterling Society. Karen served on the Friends of Lied board and served as its president in 2008–2009. She also served on the Lied Statewide Advisory Board and on the board of the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts. Chuck served on the Statewide Advisory Board and as its president in 2015–2016. He currently serves on the Chancellor’s Advisory Board at UNMC. We have enjoyed attending and encouraging friends to enjoy the Lied experience. The Lied’s commitment to making the performing arts experiences available to all through programs like Arts Across Nebraska, master classes by visiting performers and subsidized ticket prices makes the Lied Center the go-to destination for performing arts in Nebraska. We want all Nebraskans to have the amazing opportunity to enjoy all that the Lied Center makes possible.
DOUG & VIKKI KOTIL
The Kotils are longtime friends and supporters of the Lied Center. In 1985, Vikki first became involved as a member of the then, newly formed, Statewide Program Advisory Council for the Lied Center for Performing Arts. She later joined the staff of the Lied Center Project, under the direction of Shelia Griffin, during the facility's construction and initial program development. Vikki recalls this as such a very exciting time to personally witness the brick and mortar being transformed into the world-class performing arts facility that it is today. She adds that from the onset the mission of the Lied Center was to increase opportunities for all Nebraskans to experience the highest quality performances and its events. Doug added that he and Vikki are happy to continue their support as an advocate and Season Lieder because they feel truly fortunate to benefit from the efforts of those visionaries who made the Lied Center a reality. Today, the Lied Center is one of the top 100 theaters in the world. As we attend this season’s performances, it is a priority for us to support the programs and events as it remains evident that the Lied Center continues to enhance and enrich the cultural experiences of generations of Nebraskans.
ART & CHRIS ZYGIELBAUM
Taking great honor and pleasure in their involvement with the Lied Center, Art and Chris Zygielbaum support programs, take part in special events, and contribute time and energy to the Lied. Art is the past president of the Lied Center Statewide Advisory Board, and Chris is a former Friends of Lied board member. Art and Chris can be found at the Lied Center for more than 20 performances a year and often choose to support programs that have exceptional artistic merit and social justice impact. These include the play 1984 in the 2019-2020 season, the Mosaic Circle’s Everytime I Talk About and the incredible ABT Across America in the 2020-2021 Season. A number of years ago, they supported a youth play from Australia called Hitler’s Daughter that explored issues of Nazi Germany through a fictional plot. This production, in particular, had a significant impact on local youth who were given the opportunity to experience the show. The Zygielbaums also sponsored My Antonia, Trevor Noah, The Capitol Steps and many other memorable and meaningful programs in past seasons. Because of their deep belief in the importance of the Lied Center to our community and state, the Zygielbaums are committed to helping assure its continued success.
JOHN & LAURIE TAVLIN
John and Laurie Tavlin have been dedicated supporters of jazz music for 50 years. John founded the Nebraska Jazz Orchestra in 1975, serving as its president and performing in the trumpet section from 1975 to 1988. As a jazz trumpeter, John has been a soloist at venues ranging from London’s Crystal Palace Bowl to jazz clubs in New York City, Chicago, Kansas City, Des Moines, New Orleans, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. He has performed with many jazz greats, including Clark Terry, Bill Watrous, Don Menza, and Ed Shaughnessy. In 1986, John received the Lincoln Mayor’s Arts Award as a performing jazz artist.
In 2016, John founded the Johnny Manhattan Orchestra, a 19-member ensemble created to support the University of Nebraska Jazz Studies Program by pairing student musicians with professionals in a working band that celebrates classic Swing Era music.
In 2023, he founded the Metro Jazz Quintet, which honors the rich tradition of jazz through a sold-out performance series in the Lied Commons.
Through their company, Nebraska Diamond, John and Laurie have sponsored numerous guest artists with the Nebraska Jazz Orchestra and the University of Nebraska, as well as supporting Jazz in June. They have also established and funded a Graduate Fellowship in Jazz Trumpet and an Excellence in Jazz Performance Scholarship Fund through the University of Nebraska Foundation, benefiting jazz programs at both UNL and UNO.
As Season Lieders, John and Laurie—along with Nebraska Diamond—support the full spectrum of Lied programming. As members of the Lied Jazz Circle, they are especially committed to the growth and appreciation of jazz music, a uniquely creative and important American art form. They toast the Lied on another outstanding season of great performances!
MICHAEL & MARVONA TAVLIN
Michael and Marvona Tavlin are longtime Lied Center friends and supporters. They are big fans of Broadway musicals and are both music school graduates of Oklahoma City University where Mike is a member of the Alumni Advisory Councils for the Schools of Dance, Music and Theatre. Longtime Lincoln residents and community volunteers, Mike is the Managing Director of Pacific Asset Management, LLC, and Marvona is a Past National President of the Delta Zeta Sorority, a Past President of the Delta Zeta Foundation, and was an early Friends of Lied board member. The Tavlins believe that arts education is a critical part of student development because it helps shape well-rounded, adaptable and thoughtful individuals equipped to thrive both in school and in life.
BRENT & ROBIN KORTE
The arts bring color to our lives. We both grew up in homes that valued the arts in many different forms. We raised our own children to understand the importance of the arts in the lives of every person and the strength of community it provides. Our family has enjoyed both engaging in various arts and the ability to appreciate the work of other artists. We are continually engaged and excited by the exceptional programming at the Lied. The Lied’s commitment to bringing many different forms of the arts to Nebraska through both education and entertainment is a treasure for Lincoln and all of Nebraska. We are excited to continue our support of the Lied and its mission to make Lincoln an unparalleled community for the arts.
RHONDA SEACREST
Few Nebraskans have supported the arts and culture of the state, including the Lied Center for Performing Arts, more than Rhonda Seacrest and her late husband, James C. Seacrest. With their support of the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts, Sheldon Museum of Art, the Glenn Korff School of Music, Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra, the NET Foundation and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, among others, the Seacrests have gone above and beyond to provide world-class cultural events and education to citizens all across Nebraska.
Jointly and individually, the Seacrests have headed fund drives raising millions of dollars and served on the boards of some of Nebraska’s most significant cultural entities.
“Attending any performance at the Lied Center enhances the cultural awareness of each person. I can feel it! Patrons exit culturally elevated in a manner that can only be provided in an exceptional venue. And it is happening right here in Lincoln.”
2025 - 2026 LIED CENTER STATEWIDE ADVISORY BOARD
Barbara Bartle
Justin Carlson
Kristen Cline
Dee Cummins
Kate Engel
Clover Frederick
John Leonard Harris
Randy Hawthorne
Heather Hilgers
Hasan Khalil
Barbara Kohler
Brent Korte (President)
Daniel Martinez
Anthony J. Messineo
Dave Miller
Marilyn Moore
Brian Morrison
Kayla Mulheisen
Deb Nelson
Rosemary Ohles
It is an incredible honor to serve as president of the Lied Center’s Statewide Advisory Board, working alongside passionate individuals from across Nebraska who are united by a deep love for the performing arts.
The Lied Center is more than a landmark—it’s a beacon of creativity, connection, and excellence. Consistently ranked among the top 100 performing arts centers worldwide, its reputation is built not just on remarkable performances, but on the people behind them. From the devoted team bringing transformative art to stages and classrooms, to the generous donors, volunteers, and statewide partners who make it all possible—this is a shared achievement. And at the heart of it all is you: the audience whose curiosity, passion, and presence give the work true meaning.
Jackie Ostrowicki
Jill Pershing Davis
Kim Russel
Dr. Sarah Salem
Bryan Shank
Piyush Srivastav
Bill Stephan
Natalie Stroud
Emily Tonniges
As Sir Ken Robinson once said, “The arts are not a luxury. They are as fundamental as breathing.” The arts enrich our lives in profound and lasting ways. They allow us to experience beauty, express emotion, and explore new perspectives. They help us understand ourselves and one another, forming a bridge between diverse communities and generations.
President John F. Kennedy beautifully captured this truth when he said: “The life of the arts, far from being an interruption, a distraction, in the life of a nation, is very close to the center of a nation's purpose—and is a test of the quality of a nation’s civilization.”
When you attend a performance at the Lied, it’s more than entertainment—it’s a chance to be moved, challenged, uplifted. What will you take with you? A burst of inspiration? A new way of seeing the world? A shared moment with family or community?
The performing arts offer escape, connection, and meaning. They don’t just reflect life—they fulfill it. And through your presence and support, the Lied Center continues to open a “whole new world” of possibility for you and your loved ones.
BRENT KORTE, PRESIDENT OF THE STATEWIDE ADVISORY BOARD
The Lied Center is Nebraska’s Performing Arts Center!
In our 35 year history, the Lied Center has hosted more than 1,700 events featuring artists from around the world.
More than 3 million audience members have enjoyed thrilling performances #AtTheLied.
Nearly every artist that appears on the Lied Center stage also works with students at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and/ or local K-12 students. Recent masterclasses have taken place in elementary schools, after-school programs, community centers, and beyond—and they’re always FREE to students.
As part of our partnership with Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra, every fourth-grade student in Lincoln Public School visits the Lied Center to experience a performance from the symphony.
The Lied Center’s Arts Across Nebraska program takes exceptional artists on annual tours to communities throughout the state. Last season, artists and Lied staff traveled over 1,700 miles and provided public performances and arts outreach to more than 4,700 Nebraskans in 8 communities!
Right now, more than 1,300 Nebraskans from all across the state support the Lied Center as members of the Friends of Lied.
BEST SEATS.BEST PRICES. FOR GROUPS OF 10+
• Priority seating over single-ticket buyers
• No per-ticket fees
• Free bus parking
• Personalized concierge service
• Free pre-performance talks
• Groups as low as 10+ qualify for benefits
• Discount of 20% to most season performances
IT IS EASY AS
1. CHOOSE YOUR EVENT
Visit liedcenter.org to browse our list of spectacular season shows and choose your performance. Gather your group of 10 people or more to take advantage of great discounts and personal service.
2. GET IN TOUCH
Reach out to Group Sales Manager Kelly Buresh at 402.472.4734, email kburesh3@unl.edu, or complete the Group Ticket Request Form at liedcenter.org/groups. Kelly will find you the best seats for a price that fits your budget.
3. HAVE FUN
House lights down, stage lights up: enjoy the show!