Applause
January
January 25 | 7:30
A MESSAGE from our Director
Another great season of presenting global stars close to home begins! We are excited to offer something we believe will delight everyone.
From Trace Adkins, Grand Funk Railroad, and Keb’ Mo’ with Shawn Colvin in the majestic Heard Theatre, to the breathtaking a cappella artistry of the all-male ensemble Chanticleer in the intimacy of our Legacy Hall—along with a touch of jazz from the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra—live music lovers are sure to find something to enjoy this season. We will also bring you national tours of beloved Broadway musicals. Chicago, Ain’t Too Proud, Dear Evan Hansen, The Addams Family, and Mean Girls are sure to warm your hearts and lift your spirits with stories ranging from the hilarious to the inspirational. Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson will captivate us with his brilliant insights in An Astrophysicist Goes to the Movies, which promises to be an unforgettable evening.
The holiday season will be filled with delightful and thought-provoking experiences. The national tour of Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer launches from RiverCenter, and Christmas with C. S. Lewis comes to Legacy Hall with a charming and touching portrayal of this great thinker and author during the festive season. And don’t forget Christmas with The WAVE at RiverCenter’s Gingerbread Village. Come and revel in the delightful sights, scents, and sounds of the season.
Speaking of The WAVE, we are thrilled to offer three classic silent films accompanied by this amazing instrument. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, starring the great John Barrymore, will send chills down your spine, Sunrise will keep you on edge with suspense and romance, and you’ll roll with laughter watching Buster Keaton in Steamboat Bill Jr.
From Tibetan monks creating a sand mandala to performances by the United States Navy and Air Force bands, we have more to offer than we can fit on one page. We hope you’ll join us often, as our work truly gains its value with you in the audience. We are proud to continue this decades-long tradition, made possible through the generous support of our members and sponsors. We look forward to welcoming you to RiverCenter!
Norman S. Easterbrook, Executive Director
2024 202 5 The Season
Avatar: The Last
Airbender In Concert
August 16, 2024
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse Live In Concert
August 31, 2024
Mystical Arts of Tibet
September 8-14, 2024
Wheel of Fortune Live!
September 22, 2024
Air Supply
October 12, 2024
Trace Adkins: Somewhere in America Tour
October 19, 2024
The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System
October 22, 2024
U.S. Air Force Band and Singing Sergeants
October 25, 2024
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
Silent Film with THE WAVE
October 26, 2024
Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer
November 10, 2024
Christmas with C.S. Lewis
December 7 & 8, 2024
Gingerbread Village
December 4-22, 2024
Christmas with THE WAVE
December 7, 2024
Holly Jolly Christmas with THE WAVE
December 14, 2024
Cirque Kalabanté
January 11, 2025
Chanticleer
January 23, 2025
Sunrise Silent Film with THE WAVE
January 25, 2025
The Addams Family
February 2, 2025
Neil deGrasse Tyson: An Astrophysicist Goes to the Movies
February 28, 2025
Jazz at Lincoln Center: The New Orleans Songbook
March 7, 2025
Grand Funk Railroad
March 8, 2025
U.S. Navy Mega Tour
March 17, 2025
Mean Girls
March 19, 2025
Keb’ Mo’ with Shawn Colvin
March 27, 2025
Lorrie Morgan & Pam Tillis: Grits and Glamour Tour
April 3, 2025
Dear Evan Hansen
April 18, 2025
Dot Dot Dot: A New Musical
April 23, 2025
Menopause the Musical 2 April 24, 2025
Steamboat Bill, Jr.
Silent Film with THE WAVE
May 3, 2025
Chicago
May 13, 2025
Ain’t Too Proud— The Life and Times of The Temptations
June 3, 2025
Curtain Raisers
Thank you to our Curtain Raisers! As a 501(c)3 organization, RiverCenter depends on the generosity of corporations to help present world-class artists and offer varied educational opportunities. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts offers one-of-a-kind, tailor-made opportunities for businesses and organizations to invest in the arts and arts education, while increasing visibility as a philanthropic leader in the Columbus region. Performances at RiverCenter would not be possible without the goodwill of our sponsors. A wide range of sponsorship opportunities are available, including theatre productions, events, special projects, education and outreach initiatives and can be customized to meet sponsors’ specific interests and needs, beginning at $1,500.
We would love to hear from you and discuss becoming a partner with RiverCenter. Please contact our Development Office at development@rivercenter.org or call 706-256-3653.
Our sponsors help us impact and transform thousands of lives through the arts and education. Based on donations as of December 6, 2024:
SEASON SPONSOR
PRESENTING SPONSOR
BENEFACTOR SPONSOR
GOLD SPONSOR
GENERAL PROGRAM SUPPORT
Thank You to Our Supporters!
RiverCenter for the Performing Arts would not be possible without the help and generosity of our wonderful community. We are so thankful for all of the donors and members who have helped us grow and bring amazing talent to our region for over 20 years!
We greatly appreciate each gift given in support of RiverCenter and have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this listing, which was based on donations made as of December 6, 2024. Please notify the Development Office of any inaccuracies or omissions by contacting us at 706.256.3653 or development@rivercenter.org. We regret any errors.
DIAMOND SPONSOR
PLATINUM SPONSOR
Marquee Society
The Marquee Society is comprised of donors who invest a minimum of $1,000, each season, to the mission of RiverCenter. Members receive distinct benefits to include an annual dinner, members-only events, and advance notification before the general public to purchase single tickets to shows added to the season.
Marquee Society members, and their guests, have exclusive admission into the Marquee lounge, pre-show and at intermission, for a private bar and complimentary hors d’oeuvres created by Valley Hospitality.
Every aspect of the Marquee Society emblem has a special meaning. The gears represent our mill history and the collaboration of the Columbus Challenge. The bee in its hive is a powerful symbol of the workers who built the city and RiverCenter. The blue represents our connection to the mighty river and the creative flow of the arts. The gold represents your annual investment and commitment to quality. Each Marquee Society member embodies the spirit and sentiment of this design.
To join the Marquee Society, visit rivercenter.org, email development@rivercenter.org, or call 706.256.3653.
MARQUEE SOCIETY MEMBERS
Based on donations made as of December 6, 2024
DIRECTOR
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen T. Butler
CURTAIN CALL
Ray M. and Jane R. Wright Foundation
Mrs. Clifford J. Swift, III
BENEFACTOR
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Henson, Jr.
James G. and Kathryn A. Hillenbrand
Mr. and Mrs. John C. Martin, II
Al and Betsy Ramsay
Dr. and Mrs. Richard Robbins
Rick and Jan Ussery
Wade and Adrianne Wallace
Mrs. Janice M. Watson
Dr. and Mrs. Jerry Goldsmith
Mr. and Mrs. Roderick C. Hunter
Akitoshi and Etsuko Kan
Kayron and John Laska
Jimmy and Barbara Motos
John and Sam Newton
Anonymous
Fred and Catalina Aranas
Family Foundation
Maria Luisa Aranas
Ms. Betty L. Auten
Dr. and Mrs. Fred Barlow
Susan Berry
Bernice and Mansfield Bias
Mrs. Doris Black
Gary and Mary Bruce
Mrs. Charles W. Burgin
Mrs. Forrest L. Champion, Jr.
Creek Stand Partners, LP
Mr. and Mrs. Norman S. Easterbrook
Mr. and Mrs. Thad Estes
Suzanne and Joel Fine
Mr. and Mrs. Jack J. Pease, III
David and Linell Pringle
Stephen M. Sawyer
Mr. and Mrs. William P. Scarbrough
Mr. and Mrs. M. Troy Woods
Gardiner and Nora Garrard
Cindy and Spencer Garrard
GB & Charlotte A. Saunders Foundation Inc
Mrs. Richard Hallock
The Hecht Family Fund, Community Foundation of the Chattahoochee Valley
Laura Helton
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Hill
Helen J. Hobbs
Dr. William P. Kendall
Ashok and Mary Kumar
Mr. and Mrs. John T. Laney, III
Elaine and John Laughbaum
Dr. and Mrs. David Levine
Hank and Mary Lewis
Dr. Robert and Jane Marcus
Chris and Wendy Miller
Edwin and Pam Page
Mr. and Mrs. Jefferson C. Reed
The Honorable and Mrs. William C. Rumer
Dr. Carole Rutland and Col. (Ret) Robert D. Offer
Marnie Salter
The Honorable Julia Willcox-Lumpkin
Sando and Colonel Donald Mark
Sando, U.S. Army, Retired
Mr. Claude Scarbrough
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Sears
Len and Glenda Sexton
Mr. and Mrs. John A. Shinkle
Mollie Smith
Jay and Cindy Sparks
Mr. and Mrs. Charles T. Staples
Patty Kimbrough Taylor
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Taylor
Chip and Audrey Tillman
Mr. and Mrs. Philip Tomlinson
Martha S. Tubb
Mr. and Mrs. Brad Turner
Dr. Joan and Lt. Col. (R) Darryl Verrett
Dr. Linda L. Walker and Dr. Steven E. Reissman
Chris Weaver
Mr. and Mrs. Joel O. Wooten
RIVERCENTER MEMBERS
GOLD LEVEL
Anonymous
Mrs. W. Mizell Alexander
Mr. and Mrs. Walker R. Bickerstaff
Regina Satlof and Neil Block
Bob and Linda Carter
Danny and Sandra Dawson
Mr. and Mrs. Austin Gibson
Ed and Lana Helton
Dr. Ronald and Judy H. King
Jo Ann and Ernie Kirk
Mr. and Mrs. Justin Krieg
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony D. Link
Sally Rotunno
Murray and Celia Solomon
BRONZE LEVEL
Renee Beam
Mike and Kathy Burns
Ann Burr
Sue Goodman
Mr. and Mrs. David Hay
CH (COL) and Mrs.
Thomas Waynick, USA, Ret.
Jim and Ann White
FRIENDS OF RIVERCENTER
Anonymous
Jacob and Claire Beil
Janice P. Biggers
Elizabeth A. Bloodgood
Sherida Brannan
Marie Anita Brooks
Frank and Jo Ann Brown
Dr. and Mrs. Robert H. Bush
Butch and Eva Chappelle
Kelly and Martha Dimon
Ken Hamill
Linda and Seth Harp
Dr. and Mrs. Steven Henslee
Rem and Leila Houser
Mike and Patty Kelley
Kevin and Donna Kelly
LTC Patricia A. Krause USA Ret.
Jeanette Marshall
Dr. Barbara and Leon Minsky
Louise and Judson Patten
The Honorable and Mrs. William C. Rumer
Mr. and Mrs. James Kimbrough Sheek, IV
Guy Ashton and Marianne Smith
Lois M. Tryon
Dr. Thomas A. and Sherry F. Wade
Dave and Jane Wilson
HONORARY AND MEMORIAL GIFTS
In memory of Dr. Davis Ronald Watson, Sr. Mrs. Janice M. Watson
THE WAVE PROGRAMMING FUND
(Gifts December 1, 2023 to December 6, 2024)
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Stainsby
VIRGINIA NORMAN CLASSICAL MUSIC FUND
(Gifts December 1, 2023 to December 6, 2024)
Cindy and Spencer Garrard
Mr. and Mrs. A. Comer Hobbs
Jean Kent
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Schley
Mrs. Barbara Swift
BRICKS ON BROADWAY
(Purchases and donations since November 2023)
Mike and Kathy Burns
Mr. and Mrs. Travis Chambers
Ms. Jane Del Gobbo
Ms. Jennifer Dunlap
Ms. Lisa Gainey
Mrs. Nancy Hallman
Mr. and Mrs. Alfred J. Hayes, Jr.
Mr. Rick Jones
Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Kirk, II
Mrs. Alice Lee-Boulton
Mr. Stephen McCall
Mr. William Myers
Mr. Gregory Nash
Mr. Robert Ogburn
Mr. Noah Parker
Mr. Judson W. Patten
Ms. Rose Marie Rakocy
Ms. Laura Ruffner
Mr. and Mrs. Jay Sparks
Ms. Martha Tubb
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Ussery
Ms. Latisha Wells
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this list; however, it is possible that errors have been made. If so, please accept our sincere apologies and bring them to the attention of our Development Office, development@rivercenter.org or 706.256.3653.
BECOME a RIVERCENTER MEMBER
Ticket sales meet only a fraction of RiverCenter’s operating expenses. The balance is covered by members, donations, and sponsorships. The generosity of many individuals and corporations enables RiverCenter to bring nationally touring Broadway shows and world class artists to the Columbus region. For a full list of benefits, visit rivercenter.org.
MEMBERS' VALUE TO RIVERCENTER:
» Increases the exceptional programming offered
» Maintains modern facilities that are home to the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, Columbus Ballet, Schwob School of Music and community events like the annual Miss Georgia Competition, the Maneuver Center of Excellence Band’s holiday concert, the Georgia Thespian Conference and many more
» Impacts and inspires diverse communities by providing access to the arts
HIGHLIGHTS OF MEMBER BENEFITS:
» Complimentary donors-only events
» Complimentary beverage coupons
» Recognition on RiverCenter website
» Distinguished in Applause Program
» Exclusive access to box office liaison
» Courtesy backstage tour of theatre with the Executive Director (by appointment only)
» Ticket insurance for lost or stolen tickets
» Early notice of new season announcement
» Access to presales for single tickets or season subscriptions
» Ticket exchange privileges (within the same Broadway show)
*benefits vary based on level of membership
*benefits subject to availability or deadline, restrictions may apply
RiverCenter’s Capstone Society, founded by the late Wendell Lewis, is our planned giving program. For over 20 years, families have enjoyed programs and productions at RiverCenter. Through a planned gift, members of the Capstone Society are creating a lasting legacy for future generations so they can enjoy the same magical experience of the theatre.
When you include RiverCenter in your estate plans, you will be included into our Capstone Society of donors, and we are pleased to recognize your generosity. If you would like to let us know about your planned gift, or to learn how your planned gift can help RiverCenter in its artistic and educational mission, please contact development@rivercenter.org.
JANUARY 11 | 7:30 PM
Cirque Kalabanté
SHOW DESCRIPTION
Afrique en Cirque is a show by Yamoussa Bangoura, inspired by daily life in Guinea. This performance shares the beauty, youth and artistry of African culture. A colorful show beyond its scenery, costumes and staging, it makes any theatre vibrate with energy and represents the strength, agility and life’s joys of young Africans. The audience will see acrobats execute gravity-defying moves and human pyramids, accompanied by the contemporary sounds of live Afro-Jazz, percussion, and kora. Welcome to the universe of Kalabanté Productions, and prepare for an unforgettable journey.
ABOUT KALABANTÉ
Kalabanté Productions was created by Yamoussa Bangoura, a multidisciplinary artist of Guinean origin. Yamoussa’s dream was the founding of a school of circus arts, and to direct his own multidisciplinary company specializing in the African arts.
Yamoussa first became interested in the Circus Arts as a young man growing up in Conakry Guinea in the 1990’s. He studied the circus performers he saw on European TV and practiced on the beach and dirt around his home. He also studied the Nyamakala tradition of circus, practiced by the Fula people of West Africa. He eventually joined Guinea’s original circus company, Circus Baobob, with whom he toured Africa and Europe.
In the early 2000’s, Yamoussa was recruited to come to Canada with Cirque Eloize, a Montreal based Canadian cirque company. While in Canada he also performed with Cirque du Soleil and Cavalia (cirque with horses). In 2007 Yamoussa realized his dream and opened his own company, Kalabanté Productions in Montreal Canada. He recruited many of his extended family members to join the company, including his twin sisters, brothers, and cousins.
The company began doing shows in Quebec, and over the years expanded to all of Canada, the USA and now performs all over the world. In 2018, Kalabante opened their own studio and school in Montreal, where they offer classes in African dance, cirque, and drumming.
Kalabante Productions is proud to be able to share their work, achievements and skills to inspire others and to assist with the humanitarian mission to help the Guinean community from which Yamoussa and many of his company members come.
An Orchestra of Voices
JANUARY 23 | 7:30 PM
Without A Song
Tavian Cox, Luke Elmer*, Cortez Mitchell*, Bradley Sharpe, Logan Shields, Adam Brett Ward – countertenor
Vineel Garisa Mahal*, Matthew Mazzola, Andrew Van Allsburg – tenor
Andy Berry*, Jared Graveley, Matthew Knickman – baritone and bass
Tim Keeler – Music Director
I
IV. from Hockets for Two Voices
Hee-oo-oom-ha
Know what is above you
II
Meara O’Reilly (b. 1982)
Toby Twining (b. 1958)
Steve Reich (b. 1936)
Our Father Julius Eastman (1940-1990)
Gloria† from Messe de Nostre Dame
Musica Dei donum optimi
Guillaume de Machaut (c. 1300-1377)
III
Orlando di Lasso (1532-1594) passage from Impermanence
Meredith Monk (b. 1942) Cantate Domino a 6
Giovanni Gabrieli (1557-1613)
IV
This is my song (Hymn from Finlandia)
Let all the world
Jean Sibelius (1865-1957)
Roxanna Panufnik (b. 1968)
– INTERMISSION –
V
Poor Pilgrim of Sorrow†
Charles Albert Tindley (1851-1933), arr. Joseph H. Jennings Wade in the water
Traditional African American Spiritual, arr. Stephen M. Murphy
Not an End of Loving†
1. Where I Become You
2. We Two Boys
VI
Steven Sametz (b. 1954)
3. Not an End of Loving Commissioned for Chanticleer by the Lehigh University Choral Union in 2009 Future Ones
Ayanna Woods (b. 1992) Commissioned by Chanticleer in 2024
How Can I Keep from Singing?
(to be selected from)
Robert Lowry (1826-1899), arr. Tim Keeler
I Am a Cloud† from The Rivers are our Brothers Majel Connery (b. 1979), arr. Majel Connery and Doug Balliett
Arrangement co-commissioned by Chanticleer and Musica Sierra in 2023 with support from Ken Grant
If I Had a Hammer
Musica son – Già furon – Ciascun vuoli
Sing Joyfully
Western Note
Pete Seeger (1919-2014), arr. Adam Brett Ward
Francesco Landini (1335-1397)
William Byrd (c. 1540–1623)
Harikesanallur Muthiah Bhagavatar (18771945), arr. Vineel Garisa Mahal Without a Song
Vincent Youmans (1898-1946), arr. Stacey Gibbs
Arrangement commissioned by Chanticleer in 2024
†These pieces have been recorded by Chanticleer.
*Andy Berry occupies the Eric Alatorre Chair, given by Peggy Skornia. Luke Elmer occupies the Ning G. Mercer Chair for the Preservation of the Chanticleer Legacy, given by Ning and Stephen Mercer. Vineel Garisa Mahal occupies the Tenor Chair, given by an Anonymous Donor. Cortez Mitchell occupies the Cortez Mitchell Chair, given by James R. Meehan.
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ABOUT CHANTICLEER
The GRAMMY® Award-winning vocal ensemble Chanticleer has been hailed as “the world’s reigning male chorus” by The New Yorker, and is known around the world as “an orchestra of voices” for its wide-ranging repertoire and dazzling virtuosity. Founded in San Francisco in 1978 by singer and musicologist Louis Botto, Chanticleer quickly took its place as one of the most prolific recording and touring ensembles in the world, selling over one million recordings and performing thousands of live concerts to audiences around the world.
Chanticleer’s repertoire is rooted in the renaissance, and has continued to expand to include a wide range of classical, gospel, jazz, popular music, and a deep commitment to the commissioning of new compositions and arrangements. The ensemble has committed much of its vast recording catalogue to these commissions, garnering GRAMMY® Awards for its recording of Sir John Tavener’s Lamentations & Praises, and the ambitious collection of commissioned works entitled Colors of Love. Chanticleer is the recipient of the Dale Warland/Chorus America Commissioning Award and the ASCAP/Chorus America Award for Adventurous Programming, and its Music Director Emeritus Joseph H. Jennings received the Brazeal Wayne Dennard Award for his contribution to the African-American choral tradition during his tenure with Chanticleer.
Named for the “clear-singing” rooster in Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, Chanticleer continues to maintain ambitious programming in its hometown of San Francisco, including a large education and outreach program that recently reached over 8,000 people, and an annual concert series that includes its legendary holiday tradition A Chanticleer Christmas.
CHANTICLEER HISTORY
1978 First concert, held at Old Mission Dolores, San Francisco
1979 Performance at the Mayor’s reception for the King Tut Exhibit in San Francisco
1980 Began touring regionally on Columbia Artists’ Community Concerts roster; Opening concert appearance at Mass: A Festival with Robert Shaw, held in San Francisco
1981 First national and European concert tours
1982 Released first commercial recording, Psallite! A Renaissance Christmas; First California Arts Council touring grant
1983 First grant from the National Endowment for the Arts; Vienna debut at the Brahms-Saal with the Clemencic Consort
1984 New York City debut at Alice Tully Hall; First San Francisco subscription series; Joseph Jennings named Music Director
1985 Collaborated with Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and the San Francisco Boys Chorus
1986 Established “Singing-in-the-Schools” educational outreach program; Commissioned works by William Hawley and Steven Sametz; First appearance on Minnesota Public Radio’s St.Paul Sunday Morning
1987 First appearances at the Salzburg Music Festival, the Stern Grove Festival, and the Plymouth Music Series
1988 10th Anniversary celebrations feature a 3-week summer festival of song in San Francisco
1989 First sang Franz Biebl’s Ave Maria in concert
1990 West Coast premiere of Go For Broke, a madrigal comedy by Peter Schickele (a.k.a. PDQ Bach)
1991 All 12 singers on full-time, year-round contracts; First appearance at the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival; First tour to Taiwan
1992 Debut at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam
1993 Start of Chen Yi’s 3-year tenure as Composer-inResidence; First tours to Austria, Hong Kong, and the Philippines
1994 Signed exclusive recording contract with Teldec Classics; First staged opera, Curlew River, played to sold-out houses in San Francisco
1995 Sing We Christmas reached #6 on BILLBOARD’s Classical chart; Chanticleer Endowment Foundation established; First tour to Japan
1996 Appearances with the New York Philharmonic, performing selections from Lost in the Stars before 75,000 in Central Park; First appearance at the Tanglewood Music Festival
1997 GRAMMY® nomination for Claire Fischer’s arrangement of In the Still of the Night from Lost in the Stars; First tours to Australia and Sweden; Debuted in London, Paris, and Rome; Death of Founder and Artistic Director Louis Botto
1998 Tour with period-instrument orchestra throughout the American Southwest and Mexico performing selections from Mexican Baroque and Matins for the Virgin of Guadalupe
1999 Presented three sold-out concerts with guest artist Frederica von Stade in San Francisco; Christine Bullin joins Chanticleer as President and General Director; First performance in Israel, as well as the Festival 500 in Newfoundland
2000 Colors of Love CD won GRAMMY® Award for Best Small Ensemble Performance (With or Without Conductor); Magnificat CD on BILLBOARD’s Classical Chart for 15 weeks, reaching the #4 spot; First annual Youth Choral Festival, a day-long series of workshops and exchanges with
the ensemble attended by 150 students from six Bay Area high schools, culminating in an evening concert performed before a capacity crowd
2001 U.S. tour with mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade, including performances in New York, Boston, and Washington, DC; Released new Christmas CD for Teldec Classics with soprano Dawn Upshaw; First annual composer symposium, featuring a competition for student composers
2002 World premiere of Sir John Tavener’s Lamentations and Praises at Stanford’s Memorial Church in January; simultaneous release of recording; Subsequent performances in Boston and New York; One of only two official U.S. representatives at the International Choral Symposium in Minneapolis; Publication by Hinshaw Music of Chanticleer Silver Jubilee Anthology of Choral Music. Tour to Italy, Luxembourg and France in September; Fall release of Our American Journey, Chanticleer’s 25th recording, to kick off celebrations of the ensemble’s 25th anniversary; Christmas with Chanticleer broadcast 184 times on 122 public television stations across the country.
2003 Three-day Educational Residency at Bass Concert Hall, Fort Worth, TX; Jeeyoung Kim named 2003 Composer in Residence; Lamentations and Praises wins 2003 GRAMMY® awards for Classical Best Contemporary Composition and Best Small Ensemble Performance (with or without Conductor); Release of Portrait CD in March; Tour to Europe includes debuts at the Barbican, London and Auditorio in Tenerife, Spain; Reunion concerts featuring current and former members on June 14 & 15, 2003; Fall release of Purcell recording with Capriccio Stravagante and tour to Japan and Taiwan. December 20 concert in inaugural season of Disney Concert Hall, Los Angeles
2004 Five-country European tour with stops in France, Austria, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands (at Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw). Release of How Sweet the Sound: Spirituals and Traditional Gospel Music featuring guest artist Bishop Yvette Flunder. First appearance at Macy’s Passport in San Francisco and Los Angeles.
2005 First Central Valley Youth Choral Festival in Fresno. Collaboration in April with Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra on Cathedral of Toledo program, including several North American premieres. June World Premiere of Hildegard: A Measure of Joy directed by Francesca Zambello. September release of Sound in Spirit, a transcendent CD of sacred chant. Fall tour to Japan.
2006 First Middle School Youth Choral Festival in San Francisco. Winter tour to Europe includes ensemble’s debut in Vienna’s Musikverein, returns to Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw and Paris; visits to the three Baltic capitals and mainland Spain.
2007 And On Earth, Peace: A Chanticleer Mass CD released and concert premiers to celebrate the life of Chanticleer’s founder, Louis Botto, at the tenth anniversary of his death. Let It Snow CD, a collection of popular Christmas carols, is also released.
2007 Joseph Jennings receives the Michael Korn Founders Award for Development of the Professional Choral Art from Chorus America
2008 Chanticleer & the Shanghai Quartet present world premiere of Chen Yi’s From the Path of Beauty
2008 El Camino Real Tour & CD
2008 Chanticleer inducted into American Classical Music Hall of Fame
2009 Chanticleer celebrates its 30th season with Composer/ Our Age, including pieces by Mason Bates, Shawn Crouch and Tarik O’Regan.
2009 First Tour to China
2010 National Youth Choral Festival
SINGER’S BIOS
ANDY BERRY (bass) believes that vocal music is vital because it testifies to the power of collaboration, the importance of the present moment, and the beauty of our shared humanity. He has performed as a soloist with the Santa Fe Opera, the Pittsburgh Opera, the Vietnam National Ballet and Opera Orchestra, and Singapore’s Metropolitan Festival Orchestra. His favorite past roles include the title character in Massenet’s Don Quichotte, Isacio in the second U.S. performance of Handel’s Riccardo Primo, and Kōbun Otogawa (cover) in the GRAMMY-winning world premiere of Mason Bates’ The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs. Andy earned his M.M. in voice/opera from the Yale School of Music and a B.S. in psychology/neuroscience cum laude from Yale College. In 2016, he won second place in the Metropolitan Opera National Council’s Northeast Regional Final. As an undergraduate, Andy directed the Yale Whiffenpoofs and served as an assistant conductor to the Yale Glee Club. He was born and raised in Cabin John, MD, just outside of Washington, D.C., and he now celebrates his (half) Japanese heritage living in Japantown, San Francisco. Andy is proud to return to Chanticleer for his sixth season.
Andy Berry occupies The Eric Alatorre Chair given by Peggy Skornia.
TAVIAN COX (countertenor) is so excited to be joining Chanticleer for his first season! He majored in Interdisciplinary Studies, combining Music Education, Social Work, and Psychology into one degree at the University of North Florida. During his tenure at UNF, he has performed as a soloist numerous times in works such as Handel’s Messiah, Monteverdi’s Vespers of 1610, and Vivaldi’s Gloria, as well as singing the role of Don Alfonso in Mozart’s Cosí fan tutte with the UNF Opera Theater. Tavian has also been professionally associated with the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra and Voces8. In the 2021 holiday season, Tavian performed in a project licensed by Sony and Extreme Music called A Cappella Nativity, a modern retelling of the birth of Christ. In addition to his love for performing, Tavian is also a conductor, who made his conducting debut at the 2019 Florida American Choral Director’s Association President’s Concert with the Don’t Miss a Beat All-Stars led by GRAMMY-award winning drummer Ulysses Owens Jr. In his free time, Tavian enjoys playing video games with friends
and watching reality tv. Tavian would like to thank his family, friends, and music educators that have forever changed his life.
JARED GRAVELEY (Bass-Baritone)is so incredibly excited to begin his first season with Chanticleer! Originally from West Hartford, Connecticut, Jared studied voice at the University of Connecticut, and during collegiate summers, sang with and directed Hyannis Sound. The past five years have been spent as a freelance choral musician, vocal arranger, jazz artist, and director in New York City. Highlights include singing with the Schola Cantorum of St. Vincent Ferrer, the Choral Chameleon Ensemble, and directing vocal jazz ensemble Uncommon Chord. Now, he welcomes an exciting move to the West Coast and the opportunity to travel frequently singing at the highest level. In addition to choral chamber music, Jared has a strong passion for jazz performance, and is the proud founder of vocal quintet Highline Vocal Jazz. Jared is also a Barbershop Harmony enthusiast, competing at the 2022 International Contest with The Brooklynaires. For fun, he’s a jazz harmony nerd, upright bass player, video game lover, chess player, avocational food critic, and cat dad.
MATTHEW KNICKMAN (baritone) is proud to be in his 13th season with Chanticleer. Born in Korea, he started singing as a soprano at St. Stephen’s Cathedral Choir of Men and Boys in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He holds degrees in vocal performance and pedagogy from Westminster Choir College. As a member of the critically acclaimed Westminster Choir and Westminster Kantorei, he performed with the New York Philharmonic, Dresden Philharmonic, and New Jersey Symphony, and was led by celebrated conductors, including Alan Gilbert, Lorin Maazel, Kurt Masur, Harry Bicket, Charles Dutoit, Rafael Frühbeck de Burgos, Richard Hickox, Neeme Järvi, Bernard Labadie, Nicholas McGegan, Julius Rudel, Bruno Weil, Stefan Parkman, Joseph Flummerfelt, and Andrew Megill. He has also performed with Les Violons du Roy et La Chapelle de Québec, Early Music New York, Choir of Trinity Wall Street, Saint Thomas Choir of Men and Boys, The Clarion Choir, Opera Company of Philadelphia, Opera Theatre of Weston, and Spoleto Festival U.S.A. He has been a soloist in numerous oratorios and Bach cantatas,
SINGER’S BIOS
including the St. John and St. Matthew Passions with early music organizations such as Fuma Sacra, Philadelphia Bach Festival, and Carmel Bach Festival. Matthew serves on the board of Sing Aphasia, whose mission includes helping people with aphasia and their families build confidence, make connections, and find their voice through song. When not singing, Matthew enjoys strawberry ice cream, is an exercise and nutritional science enthusiast, and revels in eating comfort foods from around the world. Buen Camino!
VINEEL GARISA MAHAL (tenor) is delighted to be joining Chanticleer for his second season. An Indian-American, Texasraised singer, he has served as adjunct voice faculty at New York University where he received his Post-Graduate Advanced Certificate in Vocal Pedagogy. He received his B.M. from Southern Methodist University and his M.M. from University of North Texas, both in vocal performance. He has performed with Fort Worth Opera, Cincinnati Opera, Casa Mañana, and made his Kennedy Center debut in collaboration with GRAMMY-nominated artist, Chandrika Tandon. He has been featured in works by prominent living composers and originated the role of Roderick in Kamala Sankaram’s The Emperor and the Queen. Some of his favorite past credits include, the title character in Britten’s Albert Herring, Fakir in Lucy Simon’s The Secret Garden, and El Gato in Frank Wildhorn’s Wonderland. In the 2021-2022 holiday season, he was a Christmas vocalist at Hong Kong Disneyland. Under the alias “Elaichi,” he has released original music which is available for streaming and purchase on most major music sites. In his free time, Vineel loves cooking, playing guitar, reading manga, and being a general nerd.
Vineel Garisa Mahal occupies The Tenor Chair, given by an anonymous donor.
MATTHEW MAZZOLA (tenor) is thrilled to return for his seventh season with Chanticleer. Matthew received his Bachelor in Music Education from the University of Houston. During his undergraduate tenure, he sang with the Moores School of Music’s Concert Chorale under the direction of Betsy Cook Weber. He participated with the select group that won first prize ex aequo at the 2013 Marktoberdorf International Chamber Choir Competition, and received three gold
medals at the 2015 Grand Prix of Nations competition in Magdeburg, Germany. After finishing his degree, Matthew taught elementary music, and sang professionally with Cantare Houston, Houston Bach Society and Houston Chamber Choir. In his free time, Matthew is an avid gamer, foodie and sports fan.
CORTEZ MITCHELL (countertenor) is a native of Detroit, MI. He graduated from Morgan State University with a B.A. in music and a B.S. in mathematics and holds an M.M. in voice from the University of Cincinnati’s College Conservatory of Music. As Minnesota Opera’s first resident artist countertenor he performed the role of Cherubino in Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro and covered Nicklausse in Offenbach’s Les Contes de Hoffman. With Urban Opera he performed the role of 1st Witch in Purcell’s Dido and Aneas. Most recently, he returned to Minnesota Opera as the Refugee in Jonathan Dove’s Flight and made his European Opera debut at the Bayerische Staatsoper in Munich as Narisco in Handel’s Agrippina. As a concert artist he has appeared in solo performances of Purcell’s Come Ye Sons of Art with Symphony Silicon Valley, J.S Bach’s Cantata 147 Herz und Mund und Tod und Leben with the Dayton Philharmonic, R. Nathaniel Dett’s The Ordering of Moses and Adolphus Hailstork’s Done Made My Vow with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Rachmaninov’s Vespers in St. Petersburg, Russia, and Wynton Marsallis’s All Rise with the Lincoln Center Jazz Ensemble. Cortez has received awards from the National Opera Association, The Washington International competition and the Houston Grand Opera Eleanor McCollum competition. Cortez is in his 17th season with Chanticleer.
GERROD PAGENKOPF (countertenor and Assistant Music Director) returns for his ninth season with Chanticleer. A native of rural Northeast Wisconsin, Gerrod received his Bachelors of music education from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and also holds a Master’s degree in vocal performance from the University of Houston where he was a graduate fellow under Katherine Ciesinski. A long-time lover of ensemble singing, Gerrod has performed with many ensembles throughout Boston and Houston including Ars Lyrica Houston, the Houston Chamber Choir, the Handel and Haydn Society, Blue Heron Renaissance
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Choir, and the prestigious Church of the Advent in Boston’s Beacon Hill. In his spare time, Gerrod enjoys exploring San Francisco with a cold brew coffee in hand, maintaining his 2500+ daily streak on Duolingo (Spanish and French), and doing the daily New York Times crossword puzzle–in pen!
Gerrod Pagenkopf holds The Ning G. Mercer Chair for the Preservation of the Chanticleer Legacy, given by Ning and Stephen Mercer.
BRADLEY SHARPE (countertenor) is delighted to be returning for his third season, driven by his deep passion for eclectic musical genres, collaborative projects and travel. As a native of Southern California, he is proud to be employed in his home state. Bradley earned an M.M. in Oratorio, Chamber Music and Art Song from the Yale Institute of Sacred Music and a B.M. in vocal performance from the California State University, Fullerton School of Music. Several of his most memorable musical experiences took place while he sang internationally with Yale’s Schola Cantorum and Voxtet, including performances at the Gewandhaus in Leipzig, across India and along the Camino de Santiago. Bradley also enjoys working as a church musician, most recently being employed at St. Thomas the Apostle, Hollywood. In his free time, Bradley enjoys taking food and wine adventures, camping and spending time with loved ones.
LOGAN S. SHIELDS (countertenor) is elated to begin his eighth season with Chanticleer. Logan studied vocal performance in tenor voice at Western Michigan University, and Grand Valley State University. Other interests include craft beer, absurdism, freestyle rap, pugs, and spending time with his partner, Gabrielle.
ANDREW VAN ALLSBURG (tenor) is thrilled to be in his eighth season with Chanticleer. Originally from Holland, Michigan, Andrew received his Bachelors in Music Education from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI, where he studied classical, music theater, and jazz voice, conducted the school’s early music ensemble Collegium Musicum, and won a downbeat award for his work with the vocal jazz ensemble Gold Company. A versatile musician, Andrew has performed, music directed, and/or arranged music globally for various cruise lines, production companies, contemporary
a cappella groups, and musicals. He has also made TV appearances on the Oprah Winfrey Show and Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. Andrew was selected to represent to USA in the World Youth Choir in Cyprus and recorded Monteverdi’s Vespers of 1610 with the Miami-based professional choir Seraphic Fire. In New York City, Andrew sang with Schola Dominicana at the Church of Saint Catherine of Siena in New York City, directed by James Wetzel and was a featured singer at Radio City Music Hall in the Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes, under the musical direction of Kevin Stites. In his down time, Andrew enjoys traveling, spending time with friends and family, and tearing it up on the drums.
ADAM BRETT WARD (countertenor) is originally from Tecumseh, Oklahoma. At a very early age Adam became fascinated with Janie Fricke and Patsy Cline. As a child he made a number of local TV appearances singing their songs. Mr. Ward discovered singing countertenor while studying French horn performance at Yale School of Music. There he was also a founding member of the Yale Schola Cantorum under the direction of Simon Carrington. He has since performed as soloist with the International Contemporary Ensemble and was a member of the Choir of St. Mary the Virgin in midtown Manhattan. As a horn player, Adam was a member of the Verbier Festival Orchestra, winner of the concerto competitions at Yale and Stony Brook Universities, and was a top prizewinner at the Coleman, Fischoff and Yellow Springs national chamber music competitions. Adam is founding member of the International Pride Orchestra in San Francisco. He was recently composer-in-residence for the New York City based Choral Chameleon directed by Vince Peterson and the Sacramento based Vox Musica directed by Daniel Paulson. He is also a singer-songwriter and can be found on SoundCloud as Adam Brett Ward. Adam holds a B.M. from Manhattan School of Music, M.M. from Yale School of Music and additional years of study at the Hartt School, Royal College of Music (London) and Stony Brook University. Adam is still really into Janie Fricke and Patsy Cline and is overjoyed to be in his 18th season with Chanticleer!
JANUARY 25 | 7:30 PM
SUNRISE (1927)
SYNOPSIS
In this celebrated silent film, a restless farmer (George O’Brien) becomes disillusioned with his quiet rural life alongside his devoted wife (Janet Gaynor) and their baby. Enticed by a glamorous and seductive city girl (Margaret Livingston), he finds himself drawn into a dangerous and alluring scheme that threatens to destroy everything he holds dear. When the farmer’s wife uncovers his dark intentions, she flees to the city, sparking a dramatic journey of redemption. Amid the bustling urban landscape, husband and wife rediscover the depth of their love, reigniting the bonds that once united them. A masterpiece of emotion and artistry, this timeless tale blends suspense, romance, and hope to stunning effect. Sunrise won the Academy Award for Unique and Artistic Picture at the 1st Academy Awards presented in 1929.
ABOUT THE ORGANIST
A former radio and television sportscaster who started taking organ lessons as an 8-year-old in Chicago, Ken Double has enjoyed a second career focused on his love of the music of the theatre pipe organ.
As a sportscaster, Ken broadcast NBA and major college basketball, NHL, IHL and AHL hockey, the worldwide broadcast of the Indy 500, and more.
But since retiring in 2008, Ken has performed concerts on the great theatre pipe organs around the world. He also helped establish the Long Center Theatre Organ Society in Lafayette, Indiana; spent ten years as the President of the American Theatre Organ Society; and currently is one of the two organists who perform on Mighty Mo, the iconic 4/42 Möller pipe organ at the Atlanta Fox Theatre.
Ken Double performed his first concert in 1978; has more than 20 recordings to his credit; has toured Australia and New Zealand 8 times; and in June of 2022 will celebrate his 40thanniversary concert at Long Center in Lafayette, IN.
Ken has been thrilled to not only perform many times on some of the greatest theatre organs across the United States, but to also have the honor of assisting the chapters and groups that stage the concerts in marketing the fundraising; enjoyed helping grow the ATOS Summer Youth Adventure, the camp-like event that has provided more than 80 young people the opportunity to learn to play (including at least 6 new concert artists who have grown from the program). He has also played a part in finding new homes for theatre organs, thus introducing the art form to new audiences in many locations.
FEBRUARY 28 | 7:30 PM
NEIL deGRASSE TYSON:
AN ASTROPHYSICIST GOES TO THE MOVIES
Step into the world of Hollywood through the eyes of Neil deGrasse Tyson, a celebrated interpreter of the cosmos, as he takes audiences on an entertaining journey into the science behind the movies we know and love. In this entertaining and enlightening evening, Tyson will explore what our favorite films got right, hilariously dissect what they got wrong, and surprise the audience with unexpected scientific insights hidden in classic and contemporary hits alike. From Star Wars to The Martian, Titanic, and even scientifically savvy beer commercials, Tyson’s engaging perspective makes complex scientific ideas both fun and accessible.
This unique event promises to bridge the gap between science and pop culture, blending Tyson’s signature wit, deep expertise, and unrelenting curiosity. It’s an evening that will leave audiences laughing, learning, and seeing their favorite films in a brand-new light.
From gravity-defying blockbusters to unexpected scientific insights in the most unlikely of movies, this evening promises to entertain, enlighten, and leave you marveling at the universe both on and off the screen.
Scan to learn more about Neil deGrasse Tyson.
VOLUNTEERS
Made up of devoted, conscientious supporters of the arts, RiverCenter volunteers work tirelessly in support of the many programs, projects, and activities that RiverCenter produces or hosts. A major portion of the volunteers’ efforts involves ushering at events and assuring that all patrons have an enjoyable experience each time they visit RiverCenter. To receive information about RiverCenter Volunteers, email Latisha Wells at LWells@rivercenter.org.
Sharon Adams
Charlene Alford
Shelley Anderson
Sandra Barker
Belinda Barron
Susan Benson
Brittany Bertacin
Pamela Blackwell
Jenny Brettelle
Marie Brooks
Fran Brower
Ann Marie Buckner
Eleanor Buckner
Linda Bugh
Ethel Bush
Cynthia Cain
Lois Cain
Bobbie Carter
Laurie Carwile
Linda Cave
Ricky Chambers
Vivian Chambers
Eva Chappelle
John Chappelle
Grayson Childers
Theresa Clark
Janelle Cox
Amber Davis
Amy Decker
Ginger Dempsey
Sharon Dennis
Dorinda Dowis
Eileen Edwards
Ruby Elder
Claire Fairchild
Debbie Faison
Mary Farley
Teri Lynn Ferentz
Glenn Fleming
Dorothy Garza
Twakia George
Earline Gibbs
Karla Gibbs
Laverne Golden
Stephanie Gudz
Geraldine Guerra Watson
Cenneta Gunn
Patricia Haden
Susan Hansbarger
Lida Harris
Linda Harvey
Sandra Hawthorne
Elizabeth Hedges
London Hedges
Jamesia Hicks
Brian Hickson
Denise Hickson
Mary Hightower
Colette Hilliard
Tandra Holyfield
Creola Howard
Patrice Jackson
Janet Jamieson
Lynette Jankowski
Pauline I. Johnson
Carolyn Jones
Lorrie Kasych
Deborah King
Marilynn Lambert
Karen Lawburgh
Carol Lee
William Lee, Jr.
Audrey Lenig
James Lewis
Rachel Lewis
Suzanne Maynard
Barbara McCarty
Robert McCarty
Elizabeth McCorkle
Towanda McCray
Dennis McShurley
Marilyn Pagan-Seda
Judy Parham
Rufus Parham
Cynthia Parker
Verdis Parks
Valerie Porter-Boyce
Doretha Presley-Benson
Paulette Rameau
Ruth Reed-Dorsett
Beverly Riley
Kirk Roane
Sandra Roane
Martha Jane Roark
Dianne Robinson
Linda Rumold
Wanda Rutledge
Charmaine Samuels
Faye Sanford
Sandra Scott
Sabrina Shine
Nancy Shipman
Nancy Sills
Louise Simmons
Mary Simonton
John Soltau
Tessie Soltau
Alice Spengler
Gail Stafford
John Stafford
Nancy Story
Verlyn Tamlin
Edith Thomas
Edweena Thomas
Corey Thompson
Karin Thompson
Rita Thompson
Silvia Thompson
Carolyn Tigner
Willie Tigner
Mike Turner
Sandi Voyles
Claudette Wade
Katherine Walker
Richard Walker
Meredith Walters
Geraldine Watson
Howard Watson
Matilda White
Stephanie Wiley
Carol Williams
Juanita Williams
Jane Wilson
Yulane Wilson
Patricia Young
VOLUNTEERS CELEBRATING 20+ SEASONS
Ann Carlisle
Laura Chandler
Pat Etemadi
Shirley Harris
Gloria Johnson
Jan Knowles
Audrey Lenig
Patty Lin
Linda Nerness
Joyce Richburg
Dolores Sanchez
Beverly Schlitzkus
Miriam Short
Barbara Singleton
Sylvia Sledge
Rose Slonaker
Norman S. Easterbrook executive director
Stephanie Hunter president
Austin Gibson vice president
Dr. William P. Kendall secretary
Brad Clements treasurer
Mollie Smith executive committee member at large
Michael Adams
Joseph Brannan
Joanne Cogle
Patrick J. Donahoe
Jeri Hawthorne
Kayron Laska
Colin Martin
Cassie Myers
Cindy Sparks
Ty Webb
Steve White
EXECUTIVE GROUP
Norman S. Easterbrook, Executive Director, CEO
Jim Rutland, Associate Executive Director
John (J.D.) Davis, Director of Production
Amanda Donaldson, Director of Development
Stefan Hagedorn, Director of Finance and Administration
Robin Peacock, Director of Facility and Event Operations
Latisha Wells, Director of Patron and Customer Services
ACCOUNTING OFFICE
Stefan Hagedorn, Director of Finance and Administration
Shannon Preston, Finance Manager
Stephanie Conklin, Accounting Specialist
Berkley Beach, Executive Assistant
BOX OFFICE
Rachel Elliott, Box Office Manager
Isabelle King, Box Office Assistant Manager
Kaitlin Hartley, Box Office Ticketing Associate
Sarah Osorio, Box Office Ticketing Associate
DEVELOPMENT
Amanda Donaldson, Director of Development
Cheryl Roberts, Development Assistant
MARKETING
Sarah Algoe, Marketing Manager
Lauren Jenkins, Marketing Manager
OPERATIONS
Robin Peacock, Director of Facility and Event Operations
Latisha Wells, Director of Patron and Customer Services
Ishmun Holcomb, Events and Facilities Coordinator
Sable McCulley, Security Lead
PRODUCTION
John (J.D.) Davis, Director of Production
Lance Fraker, Technical Director
Dan Gray, Audio Coordinator
Kyle Gray, Head Flyman
John Land, Stage Manager/Steward
Kyle Patton, Lighting Coordinator
EDUCATION
Kayla Forgrave, ArtsReach Coordinator
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
COVID & Flu Protocols
The safety and well-being of our patrons, staff and artists remains RiverCenter’s top priority. RiverCenter uses enhanced cleaning and disinfecting protocols and encourages healthy practices such as handwashing and masks for those not feeling well.
Box Office & Parking
BOX OFFICE
The box office at RiverCenter, located at the corner of Broadway and Tenth Street, is open Monday-Friday, 10:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and exterior ticket window is open Saturdays 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. It opens two hours before each performance and remains open through intermission. The box office is not open on federal holidays unless there is an event that day.
FREE PARKING
Parking is available in the parking garage directly in front of RiverCenter, 900 Broadway. Parking for those with disabilities is available in front of our main entrance. The garage is managed by the City of Columbus, not RiverCenter.
House Rules
NO BABIES IN ARMS
Everyone attending a ticketed event, including all children regardless of age, must have a ticket.
BACKSTAGE AREAS RESTRICTED
For safety and security and out of respect for performers’ privacy, patrons are not given access to backstage areas before or after performances.
HOUSE OPENING AND LATE ARRIVALS
RiverCenter’s Grand Lobby opens two hours prior to events and seating begins 30 minutes to one hour before curtain. At the discretion of house management and in compliance with artists’ contractual agreements, latecomers will be seated
at appropriate intervals during events. Latecomers may be seated near the entry doors out of courtesy to performers and other patrons.
PROHIBITED EQUIPMENT
Please be courteous and silence cell phones. Photography and recording is prohibited in the theatres.
SMOKE-FREE POLICY
RiverCenter is a smoke-free facility. Smoking is permitted in outdoor areas only. Thank you for your cooperation.
Special Services
ELEVATOR
A patron elevator is located between the entrances to Bill Heard Theatre and Studio Theatre.
WHEELCHAIRS
Wheelchairs are available for patrons needing help getting to or from seating. Ushers will provide assistance.
AUDIO AIDS
RiverCenter patrons can now take advantage of our new and improved assistive listening system available for all performance halls. The new system utilizes FM radio waves and Wi-Fi signals to provide a superior audio experience. Please visit Guest Services to request a device to ensure your ultimate listening experience.
LOST AND FOUND
Found items should be given to an usher for storing with RiverCenter Security. These items are retained by security for 30 days and then donated. Owners may claim lost items by calling 706.256.3630 during regular business hours.
DIGITAL PROGRAMS
Digital versions of programs for performances found in the printed Applause book are now available to view on your mobile phone. Use the QR code,
or visit rivercenter.org and click “Digital Programs” on the home page menu, or click the “More Info” button on the event and click the link in the show description.
BAR SERVICE
Please visit concessions and order from the many beverage and snack options that we have available. Cups with lids, and twist top plastic bottled items purchased from the bar are permitted inside of the theatre. Outside food and beverages are not permitted in the theatre.
In Case of Emergency
FIRE NOTICE: Exits are indicated by red “exit” signs. In case of fire or other emergency, please do not run, but walk to the exit nearest to your seat.
EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS: The RiverCenter emergency phone number is 706.256.3630 and is accessible during event hours. Please provide this number and your seat location to your personal contacts or child care providers. If an emergency should happen during an event please locate the nearest usher or security team member.
Rent a Venue
BILL HEARD THEATRE, STUDIO THEATRE, AND/OR LEGACY HALL: Call 706.256.3607 regarding availability of specific dates on the RiverCenter master calendar.
PATRONS ROOM: The Patrons Room on the mezzanine level may be reserved for private functions by RiverCenter Members and Partners. For information call Jim Rutland at 706.256.3607.
ILLGES PLAZA: Event and green space on 10th St. on North Side of Center may be reserved for special events. Call 706.256.3607.
Important Numbers
TICKET INFORMATION
GIFT CERTIFICATES:
Available year-round in any dollar amount at the RiverCenter Box Office. Gift certificates may only be redeemed for RiverCenter programs.
SINGLE TICKETS
Single tickets to individual RiverCenter events may be purchased without a service charge at the box office at the corner of Broadway and Tenth Street. For a service charge, tickets also may be purchased online at rivercenter.org
TICKETS AT THE DOOR
Tickets to events may be purchased at the box office beginning two hours before the start of the event.
GROUP DISCOUNTS
Most RiverCenter events offer discounts on individual tickets sold to groups of 10 or more. For information call 706.256.3612.
SPECIAL DISCOUNTS
Patrons must come to the box office to take advantage of most special promotions and discounts with presentation of appropriate ID. Military, Public Service, Educator and Senior discounts are available on single ticket purchases to most events. Student Rush prices are available all day on the day-of-show at most events. Patrons using vouchers or gift certificates should note deadlines and restrictions that apply. No refunds are given for ticket price variances or special offers.
Applause, the program guide for RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, is published periodically by RiverCenter, Inc. and distributed to patrons of season shows.
Each issue includes program and performer information for a group of contemporaneous performances and general information about RiverCenter programming, facilities, donor members, sponsors and staff.
ECONOMIC IMPACT COMMUNITY
NUMBERS GENERATED FROM 2023-2024 SEASON
Economic Impact
$595,040 (Taxes and Licenses)
Community Influence
EveryVisit Counts
27,900
630 START UP TOURS 3 $ 1.5M Generating ECONOMIC IMPACT $6.2M GOVERNMENT REVENUE SHARE
ANNUAL GIVING
$623,255 (includes sponsors and grants)
660,000+ SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWERS
WEBSITE VISITS
At the Theatre
196,400 DONORS 274 VOLUNTEER HOURS
PATRONS IN ATTENDANCE
7,475 ANNUAL HOUSEHOLD INCOME GENERATED $5M EVENTS
Each season, several touring shows launch their first national performance from RiverCenter, bringing in more than $1.5 million to the Columbus economy. These shows arrive several weeks prior to the performance dates, to conduct pre-tour activities. The City of Columbus receives an enormous economic benefit from travel, hotels, restaurants, parking, and other businesses patronized by both cast and crew.
Aside from providing great entertainment, performance space, and support services for several area arts organizations, RiverCenter plays an important role in our local economy. As calculated by the Americans for the Arts Economic Impact Calculator, RiverCenter activities result in more than $6.2 million in economic activity. This supports 189 full-time equivalent jobs, represents over $5 million in local household income, and generates $595,040 in state an local government revenue.
If you are interested in strengthening the impact of RiverCenter, please contact our Director of Development, Amanda Donaldson, at 706-256-3653 or development@rivercenter.org, or visit our website at rivercenter.org.
