THE
LIEDER FALL 2026
The Lieder exists to connect and inspire the Friends of Lied community by sharing stories that demonstrate the lasting impact of the performing arts in Nebraska
IT’S AN EXCITING FALL AT THE LIED CENTER, AND I’M SO GRATEFUL YOU’RE PART OF IT! As we begin another season of extraordinary performances, I want to start by thanking our Friends of Lied for your continued and growing support. Your generosity helps make it possible for us to bring world-class artists to Nebraska and, just as importantly, connect those artists with students in classrooms and communities across our state. There is so much to look forward to this season. Broadway fans have been eagerly awaiting the return of Mamma Mia!, which comes to the Lied for a full week in December, and we’ll close the 2026-2027 season in spectacular fashion with the return of Hamilton in April. Tickets for all performances are on sale now, and great seats are already going fast for many of the season’s most popular events. And Broadway is only part of the story. This fall and throughout the year, we’re welcoming incredible artists including Trombone Shorty and The Temptations, bringing back Lied Center audience favorites like Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis and Riverdance, and introducing Nebraska audiences to remarkable new experiences like Italy’s NoGravity. These are the kinds of performances you simply have to experience live, and I hope you’ll take a chance on something new this season alongside the artists and shows you already know and love.
BILL STEPHAN, CVE
Executive Director & Chief Artistic Officer
Of course, there is another kind of excitement happening around the Lied Center as our Building the Future project continues to take shape. Most importantly, the Lied Center remains open throughout construction, and we are presenting a full season of performances and programs. Convenient parking remains available in nearby garages, and a drop-off area on the north side of Q Street between 11th and 12th streets was created to make your arrival experience as easy as possible. Thank you again for helping us bring the world’s top artists to Nebraska and for supporting the educational experiences that inspire the next generation. There is nothing like gathering together for a great live performance, and I can’t wait to share another unforgettable season with you. I look forward to seeing you soon, #AtTheLied! Dear Friends, As much as I love summer, I always look forward to fall when we get back to school-year routines and the leaves begin to change. This fall, the Lied Center kicks off a fun and unique season that I’m anticipating very much. From the nostalgic and entertaining Yacht Rock and Stars of Rent to the masterful Jazz at Lincoln Center with Wynton Masalis, there is something for everyone! I’m also thrilled and humbled to kick off the fall of 2026 as President of the Friends of Lied. As a long time member of the Friends of Lied, I’m so glad I joined the board where not only do our donations make a difference, but we can utilize our own talents to help bring world class entertainment to Nebraska. The board is busy setting our yearly goals, experimenting with new ideas and becoming even closer Friends with other like-minded lovers of the arts. Together, with your help, we look forward to presenting another big check to the Lied Center to continue the tradition of excellence! Thank you for being a Friend of Lied! Clover Frederick, 2026-27 Friends of Lied President
CLOVER FREDERICK
President | Friends of Lied Board of Directors
WELCOME TO THE SPECTACULAR 2026-2027 LIED CENTER SEASON! THE 2026-2027 LIED CENTER SEASON IS UNDERWAY WITH AN UNFORGETTABLE FALL LINEUP OF MUSIC LEGENDS, BROADWAY FAVORITES AND SPECTACULAR PRODUCTIONS UNLIKE ANYTHING ELSE COMING TO NEBRASKA. Music fans can experience two extraordinary nights to kick off the October lineup of events. The Temptations – Oct. 1 bring more than six decades of iconic hits to their Lied Center debut, including “My Girl,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” and “Just My Imagination.” Then, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis – Oct. 9 returns in Marsalis’ final season as music director, offering audiences a chance to hear one of the world’s premier jazz ensembles lead by their iconic founding director. For something completely different, LUMIA – Oct. 16 combines world-class acrobatics, daring stunts, music and cutting-edge visual effects into a visually stunning theatrical spectacle. Broadway fans can also spend an evening with two original Stars of RENT when Adam Pascal & Anthony Rapp – Nov. 7 share songs and stories from their celebrated careers. November also brings the unforgettable music of QUEEN to Lincoln with One Vision of QUEEN featuring Marc Martel – Nov. 13. Martel’s remarkable vocals were featured in the film Bohemian Rhapsody, and his live show captures the power and excitement of classics like “Somebody to Love” and “We Will Rock You.” The holidays are always a special time to enjoy Lied Center performances with friends and loved ones. A Magical Cirque Christmas – Dec. 3 pairs jaw-dropping acrobatics with favorite holiday music, while The Swingles: Together for the Holidays – Dec. 4 brings the five-time GRAMMY®-winning vocal group to Lincoln for a festive evening of dazzling a cappella music. Then, the long-awaited return of Mamma Mia! – Dec. 15-20 brings the irresistible music of ABBA back to the Lied for a full week of Broadway joy. TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW AT LIEDCENTER.ORG.
OCT 1 2026
OCT 9, 2026
THE TEMPTATIONS
OCT 16, 2026
NOV 7, 2026
JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA WITH WYNTON MARSALIS NOV 13, 2026
DEC 3, 2026
DEC 4, 2026
FEATURING
MARC MARTEL THE SWINGLES TOGETHER FOR THE HOLIDAYS
STARS OF RENT ADAM PASCAL & ANTHONY RAPP
DEC 15-20, 2026
WELCOME NEW FRIENDS OF LIED MEMBERS (MAY 21 – AUG 18, 2026) The Abbott Family Kandace Adams Bob & Michelle Benes Amy & Chris Blomenberg Rick & Virginia Blunk Brian & Joanne Bomberger Shannon & Travis Buckminster Katie Cameron Michelle Combs Nicholas & Julie DeRocher Kathleen and Garry Duncan Joy & Adam Eakin Ben & Kim Ford Tim & Chris Gay Gene and LaVonne Hanlon Sherrie Hanneman Ashly Helfrich Greg & Connie Hill Dave & Karrie Huryta Tom & Molly Johnsen Lee Jones Sam M. Karnes Merikay Keith Rachel and Michael Kluthe-Bartsch Dottie J. Ladman Travis & Karen Lieb Jaclyn & Ricky Lorimer Mark Lukin Abel & Mesha Luksan Judy McCune Summer J. McKeehan Pat Neher Christy & Max Neighbors Kenneth Nickerson Kristen Olson Scott & Lisa Phillips Monte and Penny Pueppke Mary Reiman Connie Rose Terrence Rose Luanne Schwartzkopf Rick & Shelly Self Margaret & John Sprude Burlingame Stara Family James & Lori Stecker Jo Stewart Mark & Kris Stock Family Kirsten Stuart Sonya Sukup Ryan & John Swaroff Susan Twiehaus James Weldon Mari-Anne Wesseling Emily Willett Maryse Williams - JobMorph Cara & Shelly Christine Wondra
GIVE TO LINCOLN DAY The 15th annual Give to Lincoln Day raised a record $11 million for local nonprofits, and Friends of Lied received more than 200 donations totaling $187,986.06, including matching funds. This was another new record for Friends of Lied! A big thank you to everyone who donated. Your ongoing support and generosity help bring to life the Lied Center’s mission to educate, inspire generations, and bring world class entertainment to our community.
FEATURED STAFF
John Fucinaro joined the Lied Center Box Office team in January 2023. Growing up with a passion for music and the arts in Omaha, he first attended the Lied Center in 2008 for NMEA All-State Orchestra, where he decided to pursue music and arts as a career. John received his Bachelor of Music Education degree from UNL in 2015 and spent the next several years teaching private music lessons, substitute teaching for LPS, performing as a touring musician, and working on the sales floor at the local music shop. He is a founding member of the Downtown Collective Entertainment, Nebraska’s premier award-winning wedding and event band, performing across the country and celebrating 10 years together in 2026. As Ticketing Operations and Sales Manager, John oversees the box office staff, cultivating and training them into the kind, helpful, and knowledgeable student staff patrons have come to expect. To this day, he still looks forward to the NMEA All-State weekend at the Lied. John lives in Lincoln with his wife, Amanda, and dog, Renna.
THE DREAMER In 2017, 6-year-old Eva Olson experienced the Lied Center from a unique perspective: looking out at the audience from the stage. As a young dancer, Eva was invited by Executive Director Bill Stephen to participate in a photo shoot with Friends of Lied Board member and professional photographer Kathy Plunkett. The resulting photograph of Eva, a young ballerina gazing out at a sea of empty seats, became an iconic image for the Lied Center. Chances are you’ve seen this image of the little dreamer imagining what might be possible. Today, Eva is a sophomore at Lincoln Southeast High School. She is a member of the school’s junior varsity tennis team and hopes to someday study law. Her connection to the Lied Center, however, remains strong. Eva began attending Lied children’s performances when she was 3 or 4 years old — the shows that allowed her to “wiggle” and be a kid. “I’ve been going to the Lied as long as I can remember, sort of like a family tradition,” she said. “I’ve experienced so many amazing shows. I loved the ballets and I loved seeing musicals.” That family tradition has been shared and supported by Eva’s parents, Jackie Ostrowicki and Monte Olson, who are longtime Friends of Lied donors. Ostrowicki, who holds a doctorate in educational administration and works for the University of Nebraska System, has been deeply involved with the Lied. She served two three-year terms on the Statewide Advisory Board. After rotating off the board, Bill Stephen asked her to return, and she is now serving her third term. The Ostrowicki-Olson family has a Broadway subscription and attend many other Lied performances throughout the season. Their commitment to the Lied extends beyond attending performances and annual giving. They also have included a gift to the Lied Center in their estate planning, ensuring their support for the performing arts will continue into the future. Around age 7, Eva noticed her parents’ names listed among the donors in a Lied program and asked why her name wasn’t included. Her response said everything about how she viewed her family’s connection to the Lied: “I’m part of this family and I love the Lied Center too.” Her name was added! Nearly a decade after that photograph was taken, Eva was reunited with Kathy for an “after” photoshoot. Eva is no longer the little ballerina looking out from the Lied stage. She has grown, discovered new interests and is beginning to imagine her own future. But that iconic image still represents something much bigger than one little girl. That little ballerina looking out at a sea of faces has become a symbol of what Friends of Lied makes possible: the opportunity to dream, to experience and to imagine what comes next. Every Friends of Lied member plays a part in keeping those dreams alive for the next generation. Photo credit: Kathy Plunkett
We thank the Ostrowicki-Olson family for their lasting commitment to the performing arts and their enduring impact on the Lied Center.
FRIENDS OF LIED PRESIDENTS REUNITE FOR SPECIAL LUNCHEON On August 5, the Friends of Lied celebrated a long-awaited reunion of current and past leadership at a special Presidents Luncheon held in a private dining room at The Venue Restaurant. Hosted by the University of Nebraska Foundation, the gathering marked the first time Friends of Lied presidents had come together since before the COVID-19 pandemic. Twenty current and former Friends of Lied presidents attended, including immediate past president Deb Nelson, current president Clover Frederick, and president-elect Krista Stevens. Joining the group was Bev Austin, chair of the Friends of Lied Legends, an organization made up of alumni Friends of Lied board members. The luncheon provided an opportunity for fellowship, reflection, and reconnection among those who have helped shape the Friends of Lied over the years. Guests enjoyed lunch and social time, sharing memories and catching up with fellow volunteers and leaders. Attendees also heard updates from Bill Stephan, Executive Director and Chief Artistic Officer of the Lied Center; Amy Ossian, Associate Director of Development and Membership; and Barbara Kohler, Development Director with the University of Nebraska Foundation. Presentations highlighted exciting upcoming performances and events at the Lied Center, progress on the Building the Future project, the launch of a new planned giving program, and the current state and future direction of the Friends of Lied organization. As a token of appreciation, each guest received a gift bag before departing. The gathering served as a reminder of the lasting impact of Friends of Lied volunteers and leaders whose dedication continues to strengthen the Lied Center and its mission. Given the enthusiasm and strong attendance, organizers hope to make the Presidents Luncheon a regular tradition once again.
SHAPING FUTURE ARTISTS: LIED CENTER SUMMER EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOSTER TALENT AND OPPORTUNITY
This summer, the Lied Center for Performing Arts welcomed young artists from across Nebraska and beyond through two immersive educational programs: Triple Threat Broadway Intensive, held June 22-27, and the Piano Academy, held July 13-18. Designed to encourage artistic growth, confidence, and community, both six-day programs gave high school students the opportunity to learn from accomplished professional artists and educators while connecting with peers who share their passion for music and performance. The Triple Threat Broadway Intensive featured guest artists Julia Murney, Sam Hartley, and Reagan Kennedy, who brought extensive professional experience in Broadway, national touring, acting, and dance to the program. The Piano Academy welcomed Richard Fountain as its featured artist and faculty leader, an accomplished pianist and educator who worked with students throughout the week. Together, the guest artists gave students the opportunity to learn from professionals in their fields while gaining insight into the skills, dedication, and possibilities of pursuing a career in the arts. Throughout the camps, students participated in masterclasses, private lessons, workshops, rehearsals, and specialized instruction. Piano Academy students explored repertoire, technique, ear training, and jazz while receiving individualized feedback from faculty, while Triple Threat participants developed their skills in musical theatre, acting, and dance, with a focus on audition preparation and the professional world of musical theatre. Both programs culminated in showcases that allowed students to share their growth with family and friends on the stage. Together, the summer intensives created meaningful opportunities for students to discover new possibilities, build lasting connections, and envision their futures in the arts. With 20 students participating in the Piano Academy and 46 in the Triple Threat Broadway Intensive, the programs continue to demonstrate the Lied Center’s commitment to providing transformative arts experiences for the next generation of artists. Special thanks to Lied Center Education Outreach Manager Sasha Dobson for bringing these programs to life.
Photo credit: Kathy Plunkett
TAKING SHAPE: A NEW CHAPTER AT THE LIED Look closely, and you can already see the future of the Lied Center taking shape. In the curve of a newly finished wall. In rich colors and textures appearing throughout familiar spaces. In the striking geometry of a canopy reaching toward the Nebraska sky. Piece by piece, the Lied Center’s transformation is moving from plans on a page to a place audiences will soon experience for themselves. This summer marked a major milestone with completion of the steel structure for the north expansion, including the new studio theater. Work is now progressing on the south expansion, with steelwork expected to be complete by September 8. Inside, change is happening too. Renovations to the orchestra and balcony lobbies are underway, bringing new wall coverings, paint, carpet and other finishes to spaces that have welcomed generations of Lied Center patrons. Outside, one of the project’s most distinctive architectural features is beginning to emerge: a dramatic canopy stretching from the new entrance at 12th and Q Streets north to the entrance of the new studio theater. Its bold lines will help visually connect the expanded Lied while creating a new sense of arrival for audiences. And while construction continues, so does the show. The Lied Center’s main entrance will remain open on performance days throughout the 2026–27 season, welcoming audiences for another year of world-class performances. The full project is expected to be completed before the beginning of the 2027–28 season. What audiences see today are glimpses—a new texture here, a sweep of gold there, the bones of a new space rising outside. Together, they are becoming something much bigger: the next chapter of the Lied Center and a new home for extraordinary arts experiences for generations to come.
PATHWAY TO THE FUTURE Help us bring the project to life!
Additional support is needed to complete important elements of the Lied Center’s transformation, including enhanced ADA accessibility, plaza development, LED signage, furniture, artwork, landscaping and more. Right now, we invite you to be among the first to support the Pathway to the Future with a gift of $1,000 or more. Your generosity will help ensure these important enhancements are part of the Lied Center’s exciting future. Opportunities to participate at all giving levels will be announced soon, providing everyone with a meaningful way to be part of the project. To learn more about making a gift of $1,000 or more, contact Barbara Kohler at barbara.kohler@nufoundation.org or 402-525-9898.
Lied Center for Performing Arts 301 North 12th Street PO Box 880151 Lincoln, NE 68588-0151 liedcenter.org/support/friends
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