2016-17 WAC Guidebook

2016/17SEASON

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS BROADWAY / 10X10 / MUSIC / FAMILY THEATER / AND MORE!

Celebrating 25 Years

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Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

Welcome to our 25th Anniversary Season 2016

Classic Albums Live Presents: Led Zeppelin - II Jan. 27, pg 18 FEBRUARY

Sierra Hull April 7, pg 16

Compagnie Hervé Koubi Feb. 2, pg 14

Windmill Theatre’s Grug & The Rainbow April 8, pg 27

Still on the Hill: Still A River Feb. 3, pg 23

Niyaz presents The Fourth Light An Immersive Multi-Media Experience April 13, pg 16

OCTOBER

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band Feb. 4, pg 21

The Rocky Horror Picture Show Oct. 25 & 26, pg 29

Circus Oz Feb. 15-19, pg 9

NOVEMBER

Barnstorm Theatre Company’s The Bockety World of Henry & Bucket Feb. 18, pg 25

Elizabeth Cook Nov. 20, pg 34 Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s The Nutcracker Nov. 25-27, pg 22 DECEMBER The Acoustic Living Room: Songs & Stories with Kathy Mattea featuring Bill Cooley Dec. 1, pg 34 An Evening with Chris Botti Dec. 2, pg 20 The Snowman: A Family Concert presented by Walton Arts Center and Symphony of Northwest Arkansas Dec. 4, pg 23 Dover Quartet with Avi Avital Dec. 6, pg 14 Art Garfunkel: In Close-Up Dec. 9, pg 20 Tim Warfield’s All-Star Jazzy Christmas Dec. 10, pg 30 The Book of Mormon Dec. 13-18, pg 7 The Hip Hop Nutcracker Dec. 22, pg 23 A Very Electric Christmas Dec. 23, pg 25

2017

Mnozil Brass April 5, pg 24

Think Outside the Drum: An Interactive Family Concert Event with Third Coast Percussion Feb. 23, pg 24 Third Coast Percussion Feb. 24, pg 15 MVP Jazz Quartet Feb. 25, pg 31 Wild Kratts - Live!

Feb. 26, pg 26 MARCH BODYTRAFFIC March 2, pg 15 An Evening with Amy Helm & The Handsome Strangers March 4, pg 35 Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s Brown Bear, Brown Bear and other Treasured Stories by Eric Carle March 5, pg 26 Dirty Dancing – The Classic Story On Stage March 8-12, pg 10 Etienne Charles Creole Soul March 10, pg 31 An Evening with Buddy Guy March 14, pg 21 Edward Simon & Afinidad with Imani Winds March 18, pg 15

Los Lobos April 14, pg 21 Justin Kauflin Trio April 15, pg 31 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time April 18-23, pg 11 Marcia Ball April 20, pg 35 Oran Etkin’s Timbalooloo April 27, pg 27 Patch Theatre Company’s The Moon’s A Balloon April 28, pg 27 Oran Etkin: What’s New? Reimagining Benny Goodman April 28, pg 32 Greater Tuna April 30, pg 19 MAY Artosphere: Arkansas’ Arts + Nature Festival May 2017, pg 33 Manual Cinema’s Lula del Ray May 4, pg 17 & 33 Compagnia TPO: The Painted Garden May 6, pg 33 MOMIX Opus Cactus May 7, pg 19 & 33 The Way Back Home May 14, pg 33 Artosphere Festival Orchestra May 17 & 20, pg 17 & 33 The Man Who Planted Trees May 20, pg 33

JANUARY

Janoska Ensemble March 28, pg 16

Garrison Keillor May 25, pg 19

A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder Jan. 10-15, pg 8

Naturally 7 March 31, pg 13 & 21

JUNE

Croce: Two Generations of American Music Jan. 12, pg 35

APRIL

Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man Jan. 26-28, pg 29

Taj Express: The Bollywood Musical Revue April 4, pg 18

VoiceJam Competition April 1, pg 13

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

Art of Wine June 8-10, pg 40 Jane Monheit: The Ella Fitzgerald Centennial Celebration June 23, pg 32 Motown The Musical June 27- July 2, pg 12

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Contents 5 Expansion/Grand Reopening 6 Procter & Gamble Broadway Series 13 VoiceJam Festival 14 10x10 Arts Series 18 Coca-Cola Night Out Series 20 Popcorn, Indiana American Music Series 22 Kimberly-Clark Family Fun Series 25 Kids Series 28 Visual Arts 29 Special Shows 30 Starrlight Jazz Club Series 33 Artosphere Festival 34 West Street Live 36 Subscription Packages 38 SoNA/CCC 39 T2/Trike 40 Holiday Gift Market/AOW 41 Sponsors 42 Friends of WAC 43 Ticket/Box Office Info

ORDER YOUR TICKETS FOR THE HOTTEST SHOWS! Call us 479.443.5600

Visit our website www.waltonartscenter.org

Box Office hours + Monday – Friday / 10am - 6pm + Saturday / noon - 4pm + One hour prior to most performances

Groups of 10+ get personalized service and discounts!

Call the Group Sales Office at 479.571.2719

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Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

A Grand Reopening Celebration for the Stars Walton Arts Center reopens its doors in November 2016 for the 25th season of arts – and it’s true what they say: we’re shining brighter than ever!

The expansion and renovation of Walton Arts Center adds muchneeded lobby and backstage space, enhances the audience experience and ensures that the arts in Northwest Arkansas continue to thrive. Though we may bring in touring acts from around the world, we know who the real stars are around here! Without such a supportive and generous community, none of this could have been possible. So once again, we would like to invite you to play a pART by joining us for a community celebration.

Save the date!

Saturday, Nov. 19 Free From 10am-1pm, Walton Arts Center will offer free family activities, food and beverages, and guided tours of the new facility. That evening, we will present a series of performances to commemorate this exciting milestone for Walton Arts Center and our community. This will be the first chance to explore the newly renovated spaces – it’s the moment you’ve all been waiting for! Visit our website for the latest information.

waltonartscenter.org | Box Office: 479.443.5600

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Broadway Series Reserve your seats today with a Broadway Subscription!

Choose a 5-show or 6-show package and get 15% off single ticket prices!* Tuesday & Wednesday Evenings Packages starting under $150!

Thursday, Friday & Saturday Evenings, and Saturday & Sunday Matinees Packages starting under $170!

Act now for the best seats available!

Subscribers get added benefits like first access to other Walton Arts Center shows and free ticket exchanges.* See page 36 for more details about becoming a Broadway subscriber! *Discount and exchanges do not apply to The Book of Mormon.

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Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

THE NEW YORK TIMES CALL S IT “THE BEST MUSICAL OF THIS CE NTURY.” THE WASHINGTON POST SAYS, “IT IS THE KIND OF EVENING THAT RESTORES YOUR FAITH IN MUSICALS.” AND ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY SAYS, “GRADE A: THE FUNNIEST MUSICAL OF ALL TIME.” JIMMY FALLON OF THE TONIGHT SHOW CALLS IT “GENIUS. BRILLIANT. PHENOMENAL.” IT’S THE BOOK OF MORMON, THE NINE-TIME TONY AWARD®-WINNING BEST MUSICAL. CONTAINS EXPLICIT LANGUAGE. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT BOOKOFMORMONTHEMUSICAL.COM.

DECEMBER 13-18, 2016 TUES-THUR 7PM | FRI-SAT 8PM | SAT-SUN 2PM | SUN 7:30PM | TICKETS STARTING AT $52 All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

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Procter & Gamble

Broadway Series

A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder Jan. 10-15 Tickets starting at $35

“GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE will lift the hearts of all those who’ve been pining for what sometimes seems a lost art form.”

– The New York Times

Tues-Thur 7pm / Fri-Sat 8pm / Sat-Sun 2pm Getting away with murder can be so much fun… and there’s no better proof than the knock-‘em-dead hit show that’s earned unanimous raves and won the 2014 Tony Award® for Best Musical—A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE & MURDER! As one most gentlemanly NPR critic put it, “I’ve never laughed so hard at a Broadway musical!”

GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE tells the story of Monty, an heir to a family fortune who sets out to jump the line of succession by—you guessed it—eliminating the eight relatives (all played by one fearless man) who stand in his way. All the while, Monty has to juggle his mistress, his fiancée and the constant threat of landing behind bars! Of course, it will all be worth it if he can slay his way to his inheritance… and be done in time for tea.

Additional support provided by Cynthia Coughlin

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Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

(Top photo) National Touring Company. (L-R) Kristen Beth Williams as Sibella Hallward, Kevin Massey as Monty Navarro and Adrienne Eller as Phoebe D’Ysquith in a scene from A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER. Photo credit: Joan Marcus.

(Bottom photo) National Touring Company. (L-R) Lesley McKinnell as Miss Barley, Kevin Massey as Monty Navarro and John Rapson as Asquith D’Ysquith, Jr. in a scene from A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER. Photo credit: Joan Marcus.

Circus Oz Feb. 15-19 Tickets starting at $25

“This show has to be seen to be believed - a standout for the whole family.”

– The Independent Weekly

Wed-Thur 7pm / Thur 11am / Fri-Sat 8pm / Sat-Sun 2pm Circus exists for everyone in the imagination, but for some people that imaginary space is their world.

In this latest production from CIRCUS OZ be prepared to be taken on an improbable journey, where reality dissolves. The performers inhabit a life unconstrained by the laws of physics. They are dream soldiers, making the real world and its laws bend to their aspirations.

Deep from the Down Under at the bottom of the world, CIRCUS OZ has unleashed a mayhem of madcap musicians, acrobats and manipulators. A two hour array of physical feats, spectacular skills and hilarious antics. Aerialists defy gravity, jugglers propel unlikely objects in complicated cacophonies, acrobats fall up and stand over. At CIRCUS OZ nothing is impossible and everyone is extraordinary!

This is CIRCUS OZ. All human, non-stop energy.

Photo credit: David Liebermann

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

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Procter & Gamble

Broadway Series

Dirty Dancing – The Classic Story On Stage March 8-12 Tickets starting at $35

“Jaw-dropping.

Dirty Dancing scores with sexy moves.”

– Greenville News (Top photo) Christopher Tierney as Johnny and Rachel Boone as Baby in the North American tour of DIRTY DANCING – THE CLASSIC STORY ON STAGE. Photo credit: Matthew Murphy. (Bottom photo) Christopher Tierney (Johnny) and the company of the North American tour of DIRTY DANCING – THE CLASSIC STORY ON STAGE. Photo credit: Matthew Murphy.

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Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

Wed-Thur 7pm / Thur 1:30pm / Fri-Sat 8pm / Sat-Sun 2pm DIRTY DANCING – THE CLASSIC STORY ON STAGE is an unprecedented live experience, exploding with heart-pounding music, passionate romance and sensational dancing.

Seen by millions across the globe, this worldwide smash hit tells the classic story of Baby and Johnny, two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds who come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives. Featuring the hit songs, “Hungry Eyes,” “Hey Baby,” “Do You Love Me?” and the heart-stopping “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life.” London’s Sunday Express says, “This crowd-pleasing stage adaptation hits the jackpot!”

Don’t miss your chance to see this record-breaking live theater sensation. You’ll have the time of your life!

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time April 18-23 Tickets starting at $35

“Be prepared to have all your emotional and sensory buttons pushed, including a few you may have not known existed.”

– The New York Times

Tues-Thur 7pm / Thur 11am / Fri-Sat 8pm / Sat-Sun 2pm THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME, winner of five 2015 Tony Awards® including Best Play is coming to Walton Arts Center as part of the P&G Broadway Series!

Hailed as “One of the most fully immersive works ever to wallop Broadway” by The New York Times, this “dazzling” (Associated Press) adaptation is the Tony Award®-winning new play by Simon Stephens, adapted from Mark Haddon’s best-selling novel and directed by Tony winner Marianne Elliott.

Fifteen-year-old Christopher has an extraordinary brain; he is exceptionally intelligent but ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. When he falls under suspicion for killing his neighbor’s dog, he sets out to identify the true culprit, which leads to an earth-shattering discovery and a journey that will change his life forever.

Show sponsor

Additional support provided by Steve & Linda Nelson

Alex Sharp as Christopher Boone in The National Theatre production of THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME. Photo credit: Joan Marcus.

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

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Procter & Gamble

Broadway Series

Motown The Musical June 27July 2 Tickets starting at $35

“More than a Broadway show.

A celebration of music that transformed America!”

– CBS Sunday Morning

Tues-Thur 7pm / Thur 1:30pm / Fri-Sat 8pm / Sat-Sun 2pm It began as one man’s story… became everyone’s music… and is now Broadway’s musical. MOTOWN THE MUSICAL is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives and made us all move to the same beat. Featuring classic songs such as “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” experience the story behind the music in the record-breaking smash hit MOTOWN THE MUSICAL! Additional support provided by Billie Jo Starr and Jeff & Lisa Gearheart (Top photo) Krisha Marcano as Florence Ballard, Allison Semmes as Diana Ross & Trisha Jeffrey as Mary Wilson. MOTOWN THE MUSICAL First National Tour. Photo credit: Joan Marcus, 2015.

(Bottom photo) Julius Thomas III as Berry Gordy, Allison Semmes as Diana Ross. MOTOWN THE MUSICAL First National Tour. Photo credit: Joan Marcus, 2015.

Motown ® is a registered trademark of UMG Recordings, Inc.

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Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

Now in its third year, this international festival invites you to attend shows, participate in workshops or even sing to win the competition. It’s aca-fun for everyone! #VoiceJam2017

Attention local a cappella groups – We want you to audition! Start preparing now and visit voicejamfestival.org in October for submission details.

Professional Showcase

Naturally 7 Friday, March 31, 8pm Help us kick off the 3rd annual VoiceJam with an unforgettable night of music.

Naturally 7’s musical influences range from Doug E. Fresh to The Carpenters, from Outkast to Earth, Wind and Fire.

Experience their signature blend of Vocal Play in a concert that will have you singing along!

Part of the Popcorn, Indiana American Music Series. See page 21 for more info.

VoiceJam Competition Hosted by the Father of Contemporary A Cappella Deke Sharon Saturday, April 1, 7:30pm Get your tickets now to witness the hottest vocal bands from around the world compete for the title of VoiceJam Champion. The VoiceJam Competition is fun for all ages and is sure to sell out.

Come cheer on these harmonizing, dancing, beatboxing, mindblowing groups and cast your vote for aca-fan favorite.

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

Tickets Friday night Saturday night Weekend Pass

including both shows & Saturday workshops

$20-50 $15-25 $40-80

Additional support provided

by Kelly & Marti Sudduth and Cheyenne Products

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The 10x10 Arts Series

Dover Quartet

Avi Avital

Compagnie Hervé Koubi

1 / Dover Quartet with Avi Avital

2 / Compagnie Hervé Koubi

Tuesday, Dec. 6, 7pm / Tickets $10

Thursday, Feb. 2, 7pm / Tickets $10

One of the most in-demand ensembles in the world, the Dover Quartet returns to Northwest Arkansas! A mainstay of the Artosphere Festival Orchestra, the music presented by the four members of this talented ensemble – each with interpretative maturity and tonal refinement well beyond their years – is consistently a season highlight.

This year, they join us outside of their role as resident AFO string quartet for a special performance alongside Grammy®-nominated mandolinist Avi Avital. Known as an exceptionally exciting and adventurous musician, Avital has a style that is complex, deeply sensitive and amazingly versatile. Experience the prowess of these five gifted artists in the first 10x10 performance of the season!

Since 2010, choreographer Hervé Koubi has traveled alongside a troupe of Algerian and Burkina Faso dancers presenting his newest work, What the Day Owes to the Night. Set to traditional Sufi music, the piece combines martial arts, capoeira and hip-hop with the Algerian heritage and French training of the choreographer to tell the story of his own path to self-discovery. With mesmerizing fluidity and strength, a dozen strapping male dancers run briskly across the backs of one another to leap or fall or be tossed shockingly high into the air. Poetic, theatrical and astonishing, Koubi’s work will open your eyes to new worlds – both cultural and physical.

Additional support provided by

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Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

The presentation of What The Day Owes To The Night was made possible by the New England Foundation for the Arts’ National Dance Project, with lead funding from the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation and The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, with additional support from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Ark. Debut!

Third Coast Percussion

3 / Third Coast Percussion Friday, Feb. 24, 8pm / Tickets $10 Hailed by The New Yorker as “vibrant” and “superb,” Third Coast Percussion explores and expands the extraordinary sonic possibilities of the percussion repertoire. Formed in 2005, this group has developed an international reputation for their inspiring energy and subtle nuance, proving how vital and fertile modern American music is. These hard-grooving musicians have become known for their ground-breaking collaborations using some 300 metal instruments, including tiny cymbal-like crotales, giant gongs, Burmese temple bells and metal coils. As charming as they are knowledgeable, Third Coast Percussion illustrates the truth in John Cage’s principle that all sound is music, if you listen closely.

BODYTRAFFIC

4 / BODYTRAFFIC

Ark. Debut!

Thursday, March 2, 7pm / Tickets $10 After being named one of Dance Magazine’s 25 To Watch in 2013, BODYTRAFFIC has skyrocketed to international acclaim. Virtuosic, stylized and with a diverse repertoire of some of the world’s most sought-after choreographers, this company has taken its place on the international touring scene, wowing audiences across the globe. The stand-out, 10-member ensemble from L.A. is praised for its confident, hard-hitting execution, presenting dance that is vibrant, inspiring, accessible and challenging to both new and experienced dance enthusiasts. Prepare to be enveloped by this company’s mastery of its art form and superb technique!

5 / Edward Simon & Afinidad with Imani Winds Saturday, March 18, 8pm / Tickets $10 Fueled by his desire to break boundaries through improvised music, internationally renowned jazz pianist Edward Simon and his quartet, Afinidad, team up with the classical chamber ensemble Imani Winds, challenging the improvisational and interpretive skills of the classical musicians and inviting the jazz musicians into the more formal structure offered by classical music. See what happens when these talented performers take on a new approach in House of Numbers! Incorporating musical traditions from Europe, Africa, North and South America, this four-movement suite explores the cross-cultural meanings of numbers and the possibilities offered by bringing jazz and classical musicians together.

Imani Winds

Edward Simon

The performance of Edward Simon and Afinidad, presented in collaboration with Brubeck Institute and Western Michigan University, is supported by Presenter Consortium for Jazz, a program of Chamber Music America funded through the generosity of the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation.

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

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Janoska Ensemble

6 / Janoska Ensemble

Ark. Debut!

Tuesday, March 28, 7pm / Tickets $10 Classical music from Vienna - with a twist! This genrebending ensemble is comprised of brothers (three brothers and one brother-in-law), each of whom, having won numerous awards in international competitions, is an outstanding musician in his own right. With the strength of their virtuosity and improvisation, the quartet performs a wide-ranging repertoire extending from popular classics and original compositions to unique arrangements that meld genres from jazz and gypsy, to Latin and tango, to pop. Let the “Janoska style� flow through you, as they present the best in contemporary classical music.

7 / Sierra Hull Friday, April 7, 8pm / Tickets $10 Sierra Hull has been recognized as a gifted mandolin player since age 11, astonishing audiences and fellow musicians alike. Now a seasoned touring musician in her mid-20s, Hull hits the road on tour for her most inspired, accomplished and mature recorded work to date. Produced by BĂŠla Fleck, Weighted Mind features instrumentation comprised largely of mandolin, bass and vocals, with a genre-transcending sound both singular and empathic, harmonious and dissonant. Now with vocals and songwriting skills that have matured to her level of virtuosity, Hull speaks with a degree of refined elegance and freedom that few others have achieved, breaking new ground on the mandolin.

Sierra Hull

8 / Niyaz presents The Fourth Light Niyaz

Ark. Debut!

Thursday, April 13, 7pm / Tickets $10 For more than a decade, the electroacoustic group Niyaz has stood at the forefront of cutting-edge global music, blending poetry and folk songs from the Middle East with rich, acoustic instrumentation and state-of-theart, modern electronics. In The Fourth Light, the artists present a groundbreaking, immersive and multi-sensory experience that combines live music and sacred dance with interactive technologies, advanced projection and body-mapping techniques. Responding to sound and movement in real-time, the illusionistic three-dimensional environment that results invites the audience inside the art to share in a unique narrative that aims to bridge the gap of understanding and tolerance between the East and West.

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Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

Artosphere Festival Orchestra Corrado Rovaris

9 / Manual Cinema’s Lula del Ray

Ark. Debut!

10 / Artosphere Festival Orchestra Corrado Rovaris, Music Director

Thursday, May 4, 7pm / Tickets $10

Wednesday, May 17, 7pm / Tickets $10

Performed with vintage overhead projectors, shadow puppets, actors in silhouette and live music, Lula del Ray tells the story (almost entirely without dialogue) of an adolescent girl who lives with her mother in the middle of the desert. After a chance encounter over the radio, Lula becomes obsessed with a soulful country music duo and decides to run away from home. Inspired by the music of Hank Williams, Roy Orbison and Patsy Cline, Lula del Ray is a mythic reinvention of the classic coming of age story, exploring themes of loneliness, femininity and the iconography of 1950s and 60s Americana through live cinematic shadow puppetry.

Recognized as an important musical voice by American Public Media’s “Performance Today” – the nation’s most popular classical music radio program – the Artosphere Festival Orchestra returns to NWA for their seventh year performing together under the baton of internationally acclaimed Maestro Corrado Rovaris. The lauded orchestra features premier musicians from major symphonies, prestigious ensembles and distinguished programs around the world performing fresh and lively productions of classic and new works by leading composers. Help us welcome these accomplished musicians “home” for the 8th annual Artosphere: Arkansas’ Arts + Nature Festival in their second of three public performances during their 2017 residency.

Additional support provided by Lee & Linda Scott

Part of the 2017 Artosphere Festival. For more Artosphere events, see page 33.

Additional support provided by Lee & Linda Scott.

Support for Artosphere Festival Orchestra conductor Corrado Rovaris provided by Mary Ann & Reed Greenwood.

Part of the 2017 Artosphere Festival. For more Artosphere events, see page 33.

The 10x10 Arts Series is supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Lula del Ray

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

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Night Out Series Taj Express

Led Zeppelin - II

Classic Albums Live Presents: Led Zeppelin - II

Taj Express: The Bollywood Musical Revue

Friday, Jan. 27, 8pm / Tickets starting at $25

Tuesday, April 4, 7pm / Tickets starting at $35

They were the people’s band, and Led Zeppelin - II was their call to arms. Drum solos, guitar solos and the honeysweet voice of Robert Plant combined with a blues guitar and riff-based sound – it was the perfect equation. The album manifested some of the very best of Zeppelin, including songs like “Ramble On” and “Heartbreaker.” With more records sold than nearly any other band during the 70s, fans are unrelenting in their love for Zep. Blast back to the past with this pitch-perfect, gimmick-free performance as we welcome back Classic Albums Live and its roster of A-list musicians to recreate the sound of the album note for note, cut for cut.

Taj Express explodes with the sights and sounds of India, capturing the vibrant, expressive spirit of Bollywood movies that has entertained millions of people for generations. Through a fusion of film, dance and music, this dazzling international sensation will take audiences on a live cinematic journey through modern Indian culture and society. This production is foremost a celebration of new India’s pop music, Bollywood culture and deep traditions featuring colorful costumes, joyful dance and thrilling live music. Hop aboard the Taj Express and experience an India bursting at the seams with energy and life!

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Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

Greater Tuna Sunday, April 30, 4pm / Tickets starting at $15 Welcome back to TUNA, Texas! Greater Tuna is a hilarious and irreverent comedy about Texas’ third smallest town, where the Lions Club is too liberal and Patsy Cline never dies. The eclectic band of Tuna citizens – men, women, children and animals alike – are portrayed by only two performers, making this satire on life in rural America both crazy and delightful. Called “a good ol’ down-home laugh-out-loud fest,” by DC Metro Theater Arts, Greater Tuna has enjoyed long-running engagements both on and off-Broadway, at the White House, on “Late Night with David Letterman” and as an HBO special. Two actors, 20 characters, 20 million laughs.

Greater Tuna

MOMIX Opus Cactus Moses Pendleton, Artistic Director Sunday, May 7, 7pm / Tickets starting at $15 Known internationally for presenting work of exceptional inventiveness and physical beauty for more than 20 years, MOMIX is a company of dancer-illusionists celebrated for its ability to conjure up a world of surrealistic images using creative props and costumes, lights and shadows, and the human body. Inspired by the flora, fauna and simple magic of the American Southwest, this multimedia experience brings the Sonoran Desert to life, creating dynamic images of cactuses, slithering lizards and fire dancers. Combining ingenuity, theatricality, humor and cunning imagination, this performance - with its visual splendor, wit and sheer physical daring - will leave you breathless.

Additional support provided by Lee & Linda Scott

Part of the 2017 Artosphere Festival. For more Artosphere events, see page 33.

MOMIX

Garrison Keillor Thursday, May 25, 7pm / Tickets starting at $35 Help us welcome back one of the most prolific American storytellers of all time. Garrison Keillor is best known for creating the popular live radio variety show A Prairie Home Companion, which attracted more than 4 million listeners on more than 600 public radio stations each week during his tenure as host. With a wonderfully dry sense of humor, the Grammy Award®-winning, best-selling author shares hilarious anecdotes from his own experiences growing up in the American Midwest, the people of Lake Wobegon and “late-life fatherhood.” Exploring love, modernity, nostalgia, politics, religion and more, Keillor will captivate with his unique blend of wisdom, comedy and charisma.

Garrison Keillor

Additional support provided by Joel & Lynn Carver

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

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American Music Series An Evening with Chris Botti Friday, Dec. 2, 8pm / Tickets starting at $45 With a uniquely expressive sound and soaring musical imagination, the world’s best-selling jazz instrumentalist brings his romantic melodies from across the world to Northwest Arkansas, delivering a trumpeter’s take on audience-favorite songs, such as “What A Wonderful World,” “Over the Rainbow” and a few holiday favorites.

Botti has crafted his musical vision for over 40 years, focusing on melody, space and balance as intrinsic elements in his mellow and pearly sound. With flickering intimacy, then thundering grandiosity, Botti takes the stage in a concert that will prove him one of the most important and innovative figures in the contemporary music world today.

Chris Botti

Art Garfunkel

Additional support provided by Bob & Becky Alexander and

Art Garfunkel: In Close-Up Friday, Dec. 9, 8pm / Tickets starting at $45 Although it has been over 40 years since “Bridge Over Troubled Water” was recorded, Art Garfunkel’s image and signature vocals remain among the most instantly recognizable in popular music. He has made an indelible mark on the music world as both a solo artist and as half of the unrivaled Simon & Garfunkel. After the best-selling duo parted ways in 1970, Garfunkel landed several major film roles, published a collection of poetry and began a trek across America on foot. But those experiences couldn’t keep him away from his true love: singing live in front of an audience. Performing for the first time on this stage, Garfunkel’s golden voice will send shivers down your spine.

Additional support provided by

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Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band

Buddy Guy

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band

An Evening with Buddy Guy

Saturday, Feb. 4, 8pm / Tickets starting at $35

Tuesday, March 14, 7pm / Tickets starting at $45

Celebrating their 50th anniversary together, the iconic and profoundly influential Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, often cited as a catalyst for an entire movement in Country Rock and American Roots Music, continues to add to their legendary status. With Multi-Platinum and Gold records, strings of top ten hits such as “Fishin’ In The Dark” and “Mr. Bojangles,” multiple Grammy, IBMA, CMA awards and nominations, the band’s accolades continue to accumulate. Playing with the energetic zest of masters, this four-piece band keeps the arrangements and instrumentations fairly close to the originals. Be there for this boot-stompin’ concert!

At age 79, Buddy Guy is a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, a major influence on rock titans like Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and Stevie Ray Vaughan, a pioneer of Chicago’s fabled West Side sound and a living link to the city’s halcyon days of electric blues. A seven-time Grammy and 2015 Lifetime Achievement Award winner, Buddy is a genuine American treasure whose incendiary style left its mark on guitarists from Jimmy Page to John Mayer. On tour for his newest album, Born to Play Guitar, this legend visits Northwest Arkansas to keep the legacy of blues alive!

Additional support provided by Dale & Prudy Caudle

Additional support provided by Kelly & Marti Sudduth Media Support

Naturally 7

Los Lobos

Friday, March 31, 8pm / Tickets starting at $20

Friday, April 14, 8pm / Tickets starting at $30

In a music world rife with technological tricks of the trade, Naturally 7 is here to celebrate the simple beauty of the human voice. This seven-man crew is more than just your average singing group. Its members have perfected an intriguing a cappella style they’ve branded as “Vocal Play” – in other words, singing as instruments. Tapping into various genres from pop to traditional gospel and rock to 17th century baroque, this top a cappella group is known for their mash-ups (or what they call “hybrids”) that take the essence of a well-known song and meld it with their own melodies and lyrics, letting their voices shine. The 3rd annual VoiceJam A Cappella Festival will soar to new heights with its most aca-famous headliner.

One of the most acclaimed American bands of the 1980s and ‘90s, Los Lobos were seasoned musical veterans with nearly 15 years of experience under their belts when they scored their first hit in 1987 with a cover of Richie Valens’ “La Bamba.” Thirty years later, this Grammy Awardwinning Mexican-American band hits the road once more to share their signature blend of rock, blues, Tex-Mex, country, R&B and Mexican folk music. Join us for a night of rocking music in celebration of the cultural melting pot that makes America so flavorful, eclectic and vibrant.

Additional support provided by Kelly & Marti Sudduth

For more about VoiceJam, see page 13.

Los Lobos

Naturally 7

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

| waltonartscenter.org | Box Office: 479.443.5600

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Family Fun Series

4

Shows!

Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s The Nutcracker Nov. 25-27 / Tickets starting at $20 Fri 7pm, Sat 2 & 7pm, Sun 2pm Versatility, technical excellence and a captivating style are the trademarks of Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet qualities that have garnered both critical and audience acclaim. Help us welcome them to Walton Arts Center for the first time as they present The Nutcracker, a sparkling holiday tradition with enchanting costumes, timeless storytelling and a brilliant score by Tchaikovsky. Relive Clara’s Christmas fantasy with familiar, endearing scenes and a few unique twists! Watch with delight as toys come to life, the Sugar Plum Fairy spreads her magic and the valiant Nutcracker helps Clara defeat the Mouse King.

A holiday classic for the whole family!

Additional support provided by Mike & Susan Duke and

22

Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

The Snowman: A Family Concert presented by Walton Arts Center and Symphony of Northwest Arkansas (SoNA) Sunday, Dec. 4, 2pm / Tickets starting at $8 An NWA holiday tradition! Once again, WAC and SoNA present a very special screening of the 1982 Academy Award®-nominated film The Snowman, based on Raymond Briggs’ classic children’s book of the same name. The film about a snowman who comes to life has won the hearts of families across the world for more than 30 years. SoNA musicians, performing under the baton of acclaimed Music Director Paul Haas, will bring to life the film’s extraordinary score along with other holiday favorites in an afternoon that is sure to enchant kids of all ages.

The Snowman

The Hip Hop Nutcracker Thursday, Dec. 22, 7pm / Tickets starting at $22 Heat up your Christmas tradition with an unforgettable contemporary mash-up of a timeless holiday story. A supercharged cast of a dozen all-star dancers combines with hip hop beats mixed by a live DJ and an on-stage electric violinist, turning Tchaikovsky on his head in the coolest possible way. A spell cast by the mysterious Drosselmeyer takes Maria-Clara and her prince back in time to the moment when her parents first met. Digital scenery transforms a palace of sugarplums into a modern, romantic setting in 1980s Brooklyn. If your family is more into breakdancing than ballet, this Nutcracker is the perfect gift!

Additional support provided by Joel & Lynn Carver and The Hip Hop Nutcracker

Still on the Hill: Still A River

Still on the Hill

in Starr Theater Friday, Feb. 3, 7pm / Tickets starting at $8 Still on the Hill’s unique blend of bluegrass, folk and Ozark mountain music has the ability to make people stop and listen. These award-winning storytelling songwriters have garnered the title of ‘Ambassadors of the Ozarks’ for the work they do to preserve a rich culture that is quickly disappearing. With a collection of unusual instruments and photo quilts, Still on the Hill unveils their newest program that brings to life stories from our nation’s first historic national river - a treasure in our own backyard. Join us for a musical journey down the Buffalo River that will delight you from the start.

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

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Kimberly-Clark

Family Fun Series Third Coast Percussion

Think Outside the Drum

Mnozil Brass

An Interactive Family Concert Event with Third Coast Percussion

Wednesday, April 5, 7pm / Tickets starting at $10

Thursday, Feb. 23, 7:30pm / Tickets starting at $8 Learn the building blocks of music through active participation with the award-winning Third Coast Percussion. Families of all ages will clap, sing and listen while learning about the extraordinary range of percussion instruments that can be found in cultures around the world as well as in their own kitchen cabinets. Think Outside the Drum will begin in Walton Arts Center’s new lobby with Terry Riley’s landmark work “In C,” which has been performed thousands of times across the world.

Third Coast Percussion will be joined by dozens of local students and professional musicians to offer this celebrated minimalist composition to Northwest Arkansas families. The event will then move into the renovated Starr Theater for a memorable participatory music experience.

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Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

Back by popular demand! Three trumpets, three trombones, one tuba and a lot of laughs. If you missed their debut at WAC in October 2013, you probably heard about it! Experience one of the best-selling and mosttalked-about 10x10 artists when these musicians return to NWA, this time on our Kimberly-Clark Family Fun Series.

Playing together for over 25 years, Mnozil (pronounced ‘nozzle’) Brass has a refined but buoyant sound reminiscent of an old-time concert band, both rousing and fun, performing jazzy arrangements mixed with a bit of classical and Broadway. Presenting familiar tunes and original compositions, their powerful brass sound and creative use of physical comedy makes this one lively concert your family won’t forget!

Mnozil Brass

Kids Series Oran Etkin’s Timbalooloo

A Very Electric Christmas

The Bockety World of Henry & Bucket

4+ 2

Ages

Ages

5+

Shows!

Lightwire Theater’s

Barnstorm Theatre Company’s

A Very Electric Christmas

The Bockety World of Henry & Bucket

Friday, Dec. 23, 7pm / Tickets starting at $10 Brighten up your holidays with a dazzling tale of family, friendship and hope! Caroling worms, dancing candy canes, Nutcracker soldiers, an evil Rat King and other glow-in-the-dark creatures light up before your eyes, incorporating classic holiday stories and non-traditional flourishes set to timeless holiday hits by Nat King Cole, Mariah Carey, Tchaikovsky and more. A little bird gets blown off course and ends up at the North Pole on a big adventure! Will he make it home in time to celebrate Christmas? Join us for a delightful yuletide production that will warm hearts big and small.

Additional support provided by

in Starr Theater Saturday, Feb. 18, 10am & 1:30pm / Tickets starting at $8 Henry and Bucket are best pals, although sometimes you wouldn’t think so! Like all good friends they have their ups and downs, their battles and reconciliations, their shared adventures and, at times, a need for their own space. But as long as these two friends are together, transforming their rusty, dusty, battered and bockety world of discarded objects into a place of wonder, their adventures can take them anywhere! Poetic, humorous and rich in visual antics, this imaginative production travels all the way from Ireland to explore what friendship is, what happens if it goes wrong and how you can fix it.

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

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Kids Series

Wild Kratts – Live!

Brown Bear, Brown Bear

2 5+ Ages

Shows!

Wild Kratts – Live!

Sunday, Feb. 26, 1 & 4:30pm / Tickets starting at $20 An all new theatrical stage show based on the #1 animated PBS KIDS® series “Wild Kratts!” Martin and Chris Kratt - stars of the Emmy® nominated show and creators of other popular kids’ series, like “Zooboomafoo” and “Kratts Creatures” – step out live on-stage to share some wow facts about animals presented in large screen multimedia format. The Kratt brothers put on their vests and gloves and begin activating Creature Powers, but when the Zachbots steal one of their favorite inventions, it’s “off to the creature rescue!” With hilarious pratfalls and slapstick fun, this on-stage adventure is an exciting experience for all ages.

Add a special meet ‘n’ greet with the Kratt brothers to your theater experience for $100!

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Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

Ages

3+ Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s

Brown Bear, Brown Bear and other Treasured Stories

by Eric Carle in Starr Theater Sunday, March 5, 2pm / Tickets starting at $8 Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia, a perennial WAC favorite, returns with a triple-bill production highlighting three of Eric Carle’s most beloved tales – bringing together old favorites and new friends with whimsical music and striking scenic effects. The Very Hungry Caterpillar joins the menagerie of animals drawn from the pages of Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See? These two classic tales are followed by Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me, the heartwarming story of a young girl’s unusual quest. Performed with black light effects, puppetry, live animation, projected images and object movement, this imaginative performance is perfect for introducing your children to the magic of live theater!

Grug & The Rainbow

Ages

1+ 2

Shows!

Grug & The Rainbow in Starr Theater Saturday, April 8, 11am & 2pm / Tickets starting at $8 Back by popular demand! Windmill Theatre Company travels all the way from Australia to present the story of Grug, a funny little creature who began his life as the grassy top of a Burrawang tree and who looks like a small, striped haystack with feet and a nose. Fascinated by the world around him and full of determination, Grug embarks on an epic journey to find a rainbow that always seems just beyond his grasp. Featuring exquisite puppetry, bopping tunes and gentle storytelling that has delighted audiences around the world, this show will draw your child into the delightful world of Grug. Perfect for even the littlest theatergoers!

Oran Etkin’s Timbalooloo

Oran Etkin’s Ages

4+

Timbalooloo in Starr Theater Thursday, April 27, 6pm / Tickets starting at $8 Internationally acclaimed jazz and world music artist Oran Etkin invites young children to join his band and explore the world of jazz. The performance starts off with a problem: Oran’s friend Clara was excited to come to the concert, but she fell asleep. He brought her to the concert anyway - in her bed. The kids join Oran in singing to wake her up and discover her name is Clara Net… Oran’s clarinet! With more singing, clapping, dancing and drumming, children see all of the instruments on stage come to life and learn that making music means bringing their own character, humor and emotion to their artistry.

The Moon’s A Balloon

Patch Theatre Company’s Ages

4+

The Moon’s A Balloon Friday, April 28, 7pm / Tickets starting at $8 A balloon can be many things – a friend to play with, a maker of friendships, something to love or something lost. In our cluttered world of technology and gadgetry, a simple balloon can be the most loved object in a child’s play. In this visual-theater production, Patch Theatre Company of Australia uses lighting effects and a stimulating score to demonstrate that large possibilities can reside in the simplest of things. Celebrating a child’s innocence, friendships and the wonder of creation, this performance features only simple white balloons, two performers and a musician as it engages and pays homage to the richness of the imagination.

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

| waltonartscenter.org | Box Office: 479.443.5600

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Visual Arts Home Away from Home Works by Kay Healy and Ted Lott The Joy Pratt Markham Gallery presents exhibitions of works by both emerging and internationally recognized artists. We are proud to present three curated shows during our 25th Anniversary Season.

You’re invited to explore new perspectives on nature, identity and community.

Gallery Hours + Monday – Friday / 10am - 6pm + Saturday / noon - 4pm + One hour prior to most performances Gallery admission is free

Nov. 19, 2016 – Jan. 26, 2017 Opening reception: Nov. 19 part of the Grand Reopening Celebration (see page 5) This opening exhibition features Ted Lott’s Migration Series alongside printed and sewn installations by Kay Healy, which take inspiration from interviews with Walton Arts Center volunteers, emphasizing the importance of memory and community.

The Fabric of Nature Mixed media landscapes

by Andrea Packard Feb. 4 – April 24, 2017 Opening reception: Feb. 4, 5-7 pm Inspired by the densely wooded terrain of New England and southeastern Pennsylvania, Andrea Packard creates both small and large-scale mixed media works that integrate diverse materials such as woodcut prints and scraps of fabric.

Glacial Shifts, Changing Perspectives Paintings and photographs

by Diane Burko May 4 – July 9, 2017 Opening reception: May 4, 5-7pm Internationally recognized artist Diane Burko creates large-scale paintings and photographic series that chart the effects of climate change on glaciers around the world.

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Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

Special Shows 2

Shows!

The Rocky Horror Picture Show at George’s Majestic Lounge Tuesday, Oct. 25 & Wednesday, Oct. 26, 7pm / Tickets starting at $13 Must be 18 years old for admittance Fasten your garter belt, come up to the lab and see what’s on the slab! The madcap, musical mayhem begins when rain-soaked Brad and Janet take refuge in the castle of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, a mad scientist from outer space who is about to unveil his greatest creation - and have a bit of fun with his reluctant guests. Join us in your best Rocky Horror themed costume and sing along with this screamingly funny, sinfully twisted salute to sci-fi, horror, B-movies and rock music - the most popular cult classic of all time. BYOP* (Bring Your Own Props) for this interactive, unforgettable Halloween movie night! *BYOP: Check our website for approved props closer to the show!

5

Shows!

Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man in Starr Theater Jan. 26-28 / Tickets starting at $30 Thur 7pm, Fri 7 & 9:30pm, Sat 4 & 8pm This romantic comedy takes the audience on a hilarious and wild ride where no topic is taboo and the insider ‘tips’ come straight from the source: a gay man. Robyn is the shy and studious moderator of a local university English department’s Meet the Author event and this month’s feature is Dan Anderson, author of Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man. With the help of a hunky stage assistant, Dan turns this Meet the Author event into what New York’s Stage Buddy says is “part improv, part cabaret, part silliness – and mostly just a night of fun!”  These shows include adult content not suitable for children.

Discretion is advised.

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

| waltonartscenter.org | Box Office: 479.443.5600

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Starrlight JazzClub Series

Experience world-renowned jazz in the all-new Starrlight Jazz Club!

All shows in the newly renovated Starr Theater

Tim Warfield’s All-Star Jazzy Christmas Saturday, Dec. 10, 7:30pm / Tickets starting at $30

Tim Warfield

The critically acclaimed saxophonist Tim Warfield, known for his distinctive and soulful tone, has assembled an all-star cast to perform arrangements of holiday gems like you’ve never heard them before. Including familiar and impressive musicians, such as Terell Stafford, Cyrus Chestnut, Stefon Harris and jazz vocalist Joanna Pascale, this bona fide ensemble performs a selection of Christmas songs with a heavy contemporary flavor, punctuating familiar tunes like “Let It Snow,” “Joy to The World” and “Silent Night” with sophisticated improvisation that elevates the iconic melodies under a veil of terrific harmonies. The result is a lively, joyful, hard-driving showcase of the sounds of the holidays.

Additional support provided by

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Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

1

2

3

4

Etienne Charles

MVP Jazz Quartet

Etienne Charles Creole Soul

Saturday, Feb. 25, 7:30pm / Tickets starting at $30

Friday, March 10, 7:30pm / Tickets starting at $30

Four legendary musicians who have crossed paths on multiple occasions unite to perform as an ensemble for the first time. In presenting this celebratory concert, particular attention is bestowed upon the late James Williams and Mulgrew Miller - two jazz artist whose careers evolved out of the extraordinary piano tradition of Memphis and who appeared on the Walton Arts Center Jazz Series on multiple occasions. Kansas City native and former musical director of Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, saxophonist Bobby Watson frontlines the band of leaders along with “The Tonight Show” alumnus, drummer Marvin “Smitty” Smith; veteran bassist Ray “Bulldog” Drummond; and revered pianist Donald Brown. The concert is a remembrance and celebration of the music produced 25 years ago by two talented artists.

A daring improviser who delivers with heart-wrenching lyricism, Etienne Charles brings his ebullient trumpet sound, saturated with the flavors of the Caribbean to the Starrlight Jazz Club. Charles has received critical acclaim for his exciting performances, thrilling compositions and knack for connecting with audiences worldwide. Though originally from the island of Trinidad and Tobago, he fully understands the New Orleans trumpet tradition - which is evident in his trademark instrumental swagger. With his Creole Soul Band, he fuses roots grooves from the AfroCaribbean with the collaborative sound of American jazz – introducing audiences to new colors, textures and motifs found around the world.

1. Bobby Watson 2. Donald Brown 3. Ray “Bulldog” Drummond 4. Marvin “Smitty” Smith

Justin Kauflin Trio Saturday, April 15, 7:30pm / Tickets starting at $30

Justin Kauflin

When he was just 11 years old, award-winning jazz pianist Justin Kauflin lost his eyesight. Determined to not let this define him, he went on to receive top honors in jazz festivals across the U.S. and began performing professionally by age 15, most notably with the Jae Sinnett Trio. While in college, Kauflin was taken under the wing of Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award-winner Clark Terry and was the subject of the critically acclaimed documentary Keep On Keepin’ On*. Kauflin’s fame has continued to rise ever since, first winning multiple awards, including Jazz Artist of the Year and then being signed by legendary producer and music icon, Quincy Jones. Don’t miss this inspiring artist live on stage! *Stay tuned for information about a special screening of Keep On Keepin’ On!

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

| waltonartscenter.org | Box Office: 479.443.5600

31

Starrlight JazzClub Series

Oran Etkin

Jane Monheit

Oran Etkin: What’s New? Reimagining Benny Goodman

Jane Monheit: The Ella Fitzgerald Centennial Celebration

Friday, April 28, 7:30pm / Tickets starting at $30

Friday, June 23, 7:30pm / Tickets starting at $30

Known for superb mastery and a unique sound on the sax, clarinet and bass-clarinet, Oran Etkin and his all-star ensemble pay modern homage to the legendary “king of swing” and his 1930s quartet. Presenting a program that’s both respectful to its subject and adventurous in nature, Etkin covers classics from Goodman’s repertoire with an exuberant swinging rhythm, delivers originals remade in his image, creates Goodman-sourced derivatives with eminent individuality and plays alongside a quartet of clarinet, vibraphone, piano and drums—the same instrumentation Goodman used. Though 80 years have passed since Goodman’s swing era-launch concert, Etkin is here to prove that his legacy lives on.

Blessed with a voice of phenomenal beauty, Jane Monheit has established herself as one of today’s best and most important jazz vocalist-musicians. But the Long Island native surprised even herself on her newest album – a tribute to Ella Fitzgerald’s beloved songbook. The result is a classic example of a singer leading her influences, rather than being led by them, with earthy wordless phrases and a sound that plays up her incomparable swinging, scatting, girlish side. Monheit is all woman here, pouring herself into the lyrics with sultry savoir faire. Celebrating the 100th anniversary of Ella’s birth, Monheit takes the stage with her longtime band mates to present her interpretation of this musical lioness.

Additional support provided by Hershey & Denise Garner

20% OFF

32

Purchase all 6 shows through our Jazz Lovers Package and get 20% off single ticket prices.

Your subscription includes the same seat (or table) for each performance! See page 37 for more info.

Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

ARK ANSAS’ ARTS + NATURE FESTIVAL PRESENTED BY WALTON ARTS CENTER

Explore arts and nature with your family!

Manual Cinema’s Lula del Ray

Artosphere Festival Orchestra

Thursday, May 4, 7pm | $10 Part of the 10x10 Arts Series Learn more on page 17.

Corrado Rovaris, Music Director Wednesday, May 17, 7pm | $10 Part of the 10x10 Arts Series Learn more on page 17.

Compagnia TPO: The Painted Garden Saturday, May 6, 11am, 2 & 4pm | $10

Puppet State Theatre of Ireland’s

The Man Who Planted Trees Saturday, May 20, 11am & 2pm | $10

MOMIX Opus Cactus

Artosphere Festival Orchestra

Moses Pendleton, Artistic Director Sunday, May 7, 7pm | $15-45 Part of the Coca-Cola Night Out Series Learn more on page 19.

Corrado Rovaris, Music Director Saturday, May 20, 8pm | $10 Finale concert

Teatre Branar of Ireland and Teater Refleksion of Denmark in association with Barboró International Arts Festival for Children present

Watch for announcements about Artosphere favorites – Trail Mix, the Chapel Music Series and more!

The Way Back Home

Sunday, May 14, 2 & 4pm | $10 Additional support provided by Lee & Linda Scott and Greenwood Gearhart Inc. Support for Music Director Corrado Rovaris provided by Mary Ann & Reed Greenwood.

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

| waltonartscenter.org | Box Office: 479.443.5600

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Elizabeth Cook

Kathy Mattea

West Street Live Series presented by Neal Pendergraft All shows in the newly renovated Starr Theater

Elizabeth Cook with special guest Dylan LeBlanc Sunday, Nov. 20, 7:30pm / Tickets starting at $30 Elizabeth Cook, the bold and brilliant Nashville singersongwriter and country music outlaw, takes the stage with her atmospheric, swampy country, blues and rock sound to introduce audiences to her newest album, Exodus of Venus. This Florida born and raised Grand Ole Opry regular – perhaps best known as the SiriusXM Outlaw Country host and David Letterman favorite – explores a new sound, one inspired by heartache and hardship that is both cathartic and visceral. Exodus of Venus is a transcendent reflection on hard times, survival and rebirth, suggesting that it was only through these experiences that Cook could tap into the force of her true power.

The Acoustic Living Room: Songs & Stories with Kathy Mattea featuring Bill Cooley Thursday, Dec. 1, 7:30pm / Tickets starting at $30 Grammy Award®-winning singer Kathy Mattea and her longtime collaborator, guitarist Bill Cooley, meet as old friends on-stage to share songs and stories near and dear to their hearts – including beloved classics such as “18 Wheels and a Dozen Roses” and “Where’ve You Been?” – played alongside new material that draws inspiration from her Appalachian roots, expanding the vocabulary of acoustic music that has always served as her artistic center. Her music weaves together bluegrass, gospel and Celtic influences, and has garnered multiple CMA, ACM and Grammy ® Awards. Join us for this special performance by two Nashville greats.

Additional support provided by Hershey & Denise Garner and

34

Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

A.J. Croce

Croce: Two Generations of American Music Thursday, Jan. 12, 7:30pm / Tickets starting at $30 Known for his boogie-woogie piano playing reminiscent of Dr. John, A.J. Croce is a multi-instrumentalist, roots-rock artist whose exploratory music incorporates pop, blues, folk and jazz. The son of legendary singer-songwriter Jim Croce, A.J.’s unique jazz piano stylings and bluestinged voice have established him as a singular artistic force. Now, he takes the stage for a performance that features classics by his father including timeless songs like “Operator,” “You Don’t Mess Around with Jim,” and “Workin’ At the Car Wash Blues,” along with some of his own tunes and songs that influenced them both.

Jim Croce

Amy Helm

An Evening with Amy Helm & The Handsome Strangers Saturday, March 4, 7pm / Tickets starting at $30 Tickets on sale August 29!

Blessed with a commanding, deeply expressive voice and uncanny songwriting skills that instinctively draw upon a deep well of American musical traditions, Amy Helm began connecting with audiences early in life, playing her first gig in her early teens, then joining her father, musical icon Levon Helm in his band in her mid-20s. Her talents soon found home in the New York-based alt-country band Ollabelle, where she flourished as a performer in her own right. With the humility and musical influences garnered by playing alongside her father, Amy Helm takes the stage to deliver spellbinding songs on life, love and loss.

Marcia Ball

Show Sponsor

Marcia Ball Thursday, April 20, 7:30pm / Tickets starting at $30 This Texas-born, Louisiana-raised award-winning musical storyteller has earned worldwide fame for her ability to ignite a full-scale rhythm and blues party every time she strolls onto the stage. Her groove-laden New Orleans style boogie, deeply soulful ballads and rollicking Gulf Coast blues have made her a one-of-a-kind audience favorite with fans all over the world. With instantly memorable melodies and imaginative imagery, Marcia Ball astounds and delights her longtime fans and gives newcomers plenty of reasons to join the party. Join us for a roadhouse rave-up, courtesy of the two-fisted piano prowess, sweet and soulful vocals, and superlative songs of Marcia Ball!

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

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Subscription Packages All the shows you love plus discounts!

Tickets/shows

Procter & Gamble Broadway Series

Create Your Own Series

+ 5 or 6 pre-selected Broadway shows

+ Choose 3 (or more) eligible shows from the Walton Arts Center lineup

(See pages 6-12)

Discount

+ Best seat for the best price + 15% on the Broadway lineup + 10% on all other eligible shows throughout the season

+ 3 shows – $2 off each ticket* + 5 shows – $3 off each ticket* + 7 shows – $5 off each ticket* *Discounts not available on all shows

Exclusive Access

+ First chance to keep/renew your seats + Early access to the full season + Early access to new shows added during the year + Free access to pre-show Creative Conversations

+ Early access to the season + Early access to new shows added during the year

Seating

+ Keep your same great seat year after year

+ Seats vary depending on availability

Other perks

+ Exchanges allowed within the same production up to one business day prior to the show - with no exchange fee! + Call the subscriber hotline at 479.571.2785 to connect immediately to a Ticketing Representative

36

Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

Payment plans available for orders placed by November 1

10x10 Arts Series

Jazz Lovers Package

+ 10 pre-selected shows

+ 6 pre-selected jazz shows

(See pages 14-17)

+ Buy all 10 shows for $100

+ First chance to keep/renew your seats + Early access to 10x10 shows

(See pages 30-32)

+2 0% off package shows

+ First chance to keep/renew your seats + Early access to jazz shows

Don’t miss out on group benefits!

Groups can subscribe to a series or purchase individual performances.

You just need 10 people to participate.

Benefits include: + Discounted tickets + Personalized service + Deferred payment options + Reduced handling charges Call our Group Sales Office at 479-571-2719 for more information.

+ Reserve your same seats for all 10x10 shows

+R eserve your table or seat for all Starrlight Jazz Club Series shows

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

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37

Bringing Great Music to Life!

2016-17 Season at Walton Arts Center 12.03.16 12.04.16 01.28.17 03.04.17 04.29.17 06.03.17

Symphony of Northwest Arkansas Paul Haas, Music Director

A Very SoNA Christmas The Snowman: A Family Concert Masterworks I: Momentum Masterworks II: Beethoven 5 Masterworks III: The Romantic Pops: Music and Animation

Tickets On Sale!

sonamusic.org / 479.443.5600

H LIDAY MARKET PRESENTED BY CENTER AND

WALTON ARTS COMMUNITY CREATIVE CENTER

LOCAL ARTISTS SELLING UNIQUE GIFTS NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 23, 2016  MCBRIDE STUDIO

17TH ANNUAL

Sip, sip, hooray!

Arkansas’ largest wine festival is back with three exquisite evenings of fine wine and delicious local cuisine. Tickets on sale now!

Winemaker’s Dinner | Thursday, June 8 | $200 Uncorked! Tasting | Friday, June 9 | $80 Premier Tasting | Saturday, June 10 | $150

Funders & Sponsors Star Sponsors

Producing Sponsors

Directing Sponsors

Presenting Sponsors

Contributing Sponsors

Media Partners KNWA/Fox 24 | Celebrate | CitiScapes | KFSM | KUAF | NWA Business Journal | NWA Democrat-Gazette | 40/29

All shows, dates, times, artists and prices are subject to change

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41

Enhance your experience at Walton Arts Center by becoming a Friend!

The impact of your gift: + Nearly 28,000 school age children attended a Walton Arts Center performance in the 2015-2016 season for a reduced cost + More than 1,600 tickets were given to local charities through our Take A Seat program + Over 37,000 people attended a free or low-cost Artosphere event in 2016 + Almost 10,000 people attended a 10x10 performance last season, seeing a world class performing artist for just $10 Visit waltonartscenter.org/support or call 479.571.2759 for more information.

42

Walton Arts Center 2016/17 Season

Friends of Walton Arts Center enjoy benefits like: + Access to the Friends Lounge + Free reserved parking + Special invitations to exclusive events + Concierge ticket & reservation service + Backstage tours

Ticket & Facility Information

Group Sales Who can be a group? Anybody!

Ticket refunds and exchanges

Groups of 10 or more receive discounts on most performances,

All tickets are non-refundable. Exchanges may be available for a

personalized service, deferred payment options and reduced

different performance of the same production. Exchange fees

handling charges. All you need is you and 9 other people. Call our

apply. Call 479.443.5600 for more information.

Group Sales Office at 479.571.2719 for more information.

Inclement weather policy It is rare for a performance at Walton Arts Center to be canceled due to inclement weather, but in the case that a show is canceled we will post information on our website, social media and phone

Box Office Information

system and will make every effort to contact all affected ticket

makes it impossible for you to attend, please contact the Box

Address: 495 W. Dickson Street Fayetteville, AR 72701

Office at 479.443.5600. Our ticket representatives will help you

Located just inside the West Ave. entrance

holders.

If the performance is still scheduled but inclement weather

consider all the options. Due to contracts with performers and production companies, options for day-of-show exchanges vary and we may not be able to exchange tickets. All ticket donations or exchanges must be completed at least two hours before the performance and tickets are non-refundable.

Hours: + Monday–Friday / 10am–6pm + Saturday / noon–4pm + One hour prior to most performances Phone: 479.443.5600

Accessibility Accessible seating for patrons in wheelchairs and with other

Website: www.waltonartscenter.org

needs is available for all performances. Interpretation service for deaf patrons is available upon request. Please contact the Box Office as early as possible to ensure that we can meet your

Location & Parking

party’s seating or interpretation needs.

Hearing enhancement devices, binoculars and booster seats are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis at coat check.

Walton Arts Center is located at 495 West Dickson Street in downtown Fayetteville. For directions or advice on parking, please call 479.443.5600 or visit waltonartscenter.org.

Parking is available in the following lots:

495 W Dickson St The Dickson WAC event parking New parking deck

Private Parking City Parking

P.O. Box 3547 Fayetteville, AR 72702

Shining brighter than ever!

Presenting the best of arts and entertainment in Northwest Arkansas

Learn more waltonartscenter.org