Walton Arts Center Presents at Kennedy Center Education Conference

Dr. Samantha Stinson, school engagement manager at Walton Arts Center, recently traveled to the Partners in Education Conference at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and led an educational workshop with some NWA dancers.  

During the conference, Stinson and three local dancers presented a workshop called Dancing Through Black American History. The workshop was based on a piece that the dancers helped create and perform in 2023 called Reclaiming Our Roots.

This unique project began in 2022 with a contract between Walton Arts Center and CONTRA TIEMPO, a Los Angeles-based activist dance theater company. With the help of NWA Movement Hub, Walton Arts Center sent four professional performers to FUTURO spring workshop, hosted by CONTRA TIEMPO in Los Angeles. This group of Arkansas performers then morphed into the Rooted Movement Collective, the first to participate in Walton Art Center’s Performing Arts Exchange. During Black History Month, Rooted Movement Collective brought their Reclaiming Our Roots tour to 600 local middle and high school students.  

Walton Arts Center has been providing free arts integrative curriculum in schools since it was founded in 1992. The Kennedy Center’s Partners in Education Program helps arts organizations throughout the nation develop or expand educational partnerships with their local school systems to provide professional learning in the arts for teachers. 

Stinson also did congressional visits while in DC, meeting with the chief of staff for Senators Tom Cotton and John Boozeman as well as the legislative assistant to Representative Steve Womack. 

The visits are an annual opportunity to brief the legislators on Walton Arts Center’s education initiatives, to share results and data with them and to ask for their support where it is needed. 

Exploring NYC: Art and Sightseeing Trip for Friends of Walton Arts Center

This March, a group of 27 Walton Arts Center patrons and staff members took on the bustling streets of the Big Apple for a whirlwind week of performances, behind-the-scenes sightseeing and unique dining experiences. 

The group attended six of the hottest musicals on Broadway, including the 2023 Tony® award-winning Kimberly Akimbo and brand-new shows Back to the Future: The Musical and Water for Elephants. Guests also enjoyed the beloved Met Opera, New York Philharmonic and New York Pops. 

Each day, the group explored iconic New York City landmarks, including Grand Central Station, Tenement Museum, Museum at Eldridge Street and The Morgan Library & Museum. Guests stepped into the studio with working artists and shared a gourmet dinner and jazz showcase in the home of world-renowned musicians Amina Figarova and Bart Platteau. 

"This annual travel opportunity is tailor-made for both seasoned and first-time New York City visitors involved in our Friends annual giving program,” says Becky Brink, vice president of development. “It’s not just about the destinations, it’s about forging connections with fellow arts enthusiasts who share a passion for enriching our community in Northwest Arkansas.” 

To become a Friend of Walton Arts Center or receive information about the 2025 trip, call 479-974-1506.

Arkansas Film Fest Celebrates Local Creatives

Films, no matter their plot, have the power to create change across communities, elicit emotions and start conversations. All around Arkansas, filmmakers are sharing their stories in a variety of ways. Fayetteville Film Festival and Walton Arts Center are thrilled to highlight some of these incredible films on Saturday, April 6 at 8 pm.  

This mini-film festival showcases local filmmakers and honors their stories and artistic expression. This is one of four collaborative film showcases between the two arts organizations this season.     

We asked each director a few questions to gain insight into their respective films.

Kids from Westfork – Dalton Hays | West Fork 

Kids from Westfork is a film inspired by a build-up of negativity in the community of West Fork at the end of 2020.  

“I love my community and I believe there's good people here, and that it's not a bad place," explained Hays. “It's a very good place.” Through this film, the filmmaker wanted to showcase the people in it and to remind them that West Fork is a place that is worthwhile and worth celebrating. The film was shot in West Fork to capture the beauty of the town, the community, its surroundings and people.  

“I want people to take away from this film is (the understanding) that people as individuals have an impact, no matter where they come from,” Hays told us. “It can be big or it can be small. What kind of impact will you leave behind in your community?” 

Different Not Less – Alexandra Duran | Rogers 

Alexandra Duran’s film, Different Not Less, was shot in the kitchen and living room of Duran’s childhood home, giving the film an organic and natural look with an intimate feel. This short film has been screened in nine film festivals from February to October 2023.  

The inspiration for Different Not Less originated from the idea that Duran wants to accept herself more while also advocating for high-masking people with autism. Different Not Less explores the personal and authentic view of Duran’s acceptance of their late autism diagnosis as a 17-year-old, all voiced through a journal entry. 

“I especially wanted to establish more representation for disabled individuals and break the stigma of there being a specific ‘look’ or stereotype of disabilities,” Duran said. They hope to change the stereotypical perspective of what autism is and to shift the view of it to a different way of processing rather than a deficit. 

Libertad – Hilary Lex & Ashely Hayes | Bentonville 

Libertad, about the World Ride’s program – a bike program for women, features a story based in Guatemala, where the main character lives in the foothills above Antigua. The film features the surrounding towns and trails of Antigua, the active volcano Acatenango, Lake Atitlan, various coffee farms and a mountain biking preserve called El Zur. This is the third screening of Libertad; this film can also be found on Osprey Pack’s YouTube channel.  

The filmmakers shared that they had been working with women in mountain biking for several years in Northwest Arkansas, so it was a natural extension of their network and personal interest to get involved with women internationally.  

“We are inspired by normal women doing rad things in the outdoors,” explained Lex and Hayes. “We’ve learned the repeating themes of community and healing is such a universal story for women in this sport.” 

The film is about so much more than just biking. 

“[As filmmakers,] We have the honor and joy of seeing things in women that they can’t quite yet see in themselves. It’s important for me to amplify women’s voices and unique stories to help inspire not only themselves but ultimately more women and girls of their own strength and power. Sometimes it just takes one person believing in you for you to believe in yourself,” Lex said.  

“I’d really love for people to feel inspired to get out and see the world and just how big and how small it is,” Hayes said. “You’ll meet people who inspire you to create entire businesses, to share universal stories, to enjoy their way of life and you’ll probably get to see epic places you never even knew existed.” 

Madness Within – Tyler Horne & Levi Horne | West Fork 

Madness Within about an occultist doctor and his patient has been screened at various film festivals including the Texas Short Film Festival, the No Coast Film Festival and more. This film was shot locally in Fayetteville at an office building in downtown. The filmmakers share that they were inspired by folklore and superstitions about monsters in our culture, specifically werewolves.  

“Madness Within explores the ugliness that can surface when we are desperate to get what we want and that desire can warp our view on what is real and what is twisted fantasy or superstition,” explained Tyler Horne. “We want anyone who views our film to take away a warning to not judge a book by its cover.” 

Angle of Attack – Russell Leigh Sharman | Fayetteville 

Sharman’s film, Angle of Attack, features two iconic Fayetteville locations: the bottom floor of the Old Post Office, which is the underground bar room for local restaurant, Cheers, and Goblin House Tattoo Studio. Sharman told us that the script called for a tattoo studio and a fancy wine bar, so each location was perfect as they both had a lot of character and atmosphere built into space. This film focuses on stepping outside of one’s comfort zone and revealing what is hidden in you. 

Angle of Attack was presented at multiple national and regional film festivals including the Oxford Film Festival and the Arkansas Cinema Society Filmland. Sharman shared with us that as a kid, he struggled with spelling and carried a shameful spelling bee moment with him since he was young, thus giving him an emotional tattoo.  

When asked what he wants viewers to take away from the film, Sharman said, “own your errors and imperfections — feeding your creativity and making art is an act of bravery.” 

Morning Room – Lexie Mosby | Conway

Morning Room is a film centered around taking control back over stories and situations of sexual assault and harassment. Mosby explained that this film is extremely personal to her since it is autobiographical. Morning Room has been featured in the Made in Arkansas Film Festival where it was nominated for best student short and best actor. 

“One thing that I want viewers to take away from my film is that sexual assault can look so many ways,” shared Mosby. “It’s not the thing where you can mark off so many boxes and then it gets classified as sexual assault. Instead, it is the type of thing where it is completely reliant on the guidelines and conversations had within that relationship. I feel like the media really misrepresents sexual assault and what it is and survivors are being invalidated and hurt because of it. “ 

The film was shot in Bryant in a home that belongs to her boyfriend. The location gave her complete access to the entire house along with permission to make whatever changes might be needed for the filming.   

J.O.E. – Bailey Vo | Bentonville 

Bailey Vo’s film, J.O.E., was shot at Pulaski Academy and a crew member’s house, both located in Little Rock. Vo explained that she chose these locations because they fit the look and the overall color palette of the film. J.O.E. has been screened eight other times at various film festivals including the University of Central Arkansas Film Fest and the Student World Impact Film Festival.  

The inspiration for this film was taken from Vo’s personal experiences struggling with her mental health while also witnessing the experiences of her friends and family who also struggle with mental health.  

“I wanted to create a short film that highlighted the effects of how mental health and suicide can impact those around you and to talk about how to continue living despite what life may throw at you,” Vo said. J.O.E. is specifically centered around men’s mental health and toxic masculinity. Vo said she wanted to change the stereotype and prove that anyone can struggle mentally despite what they may present on the outside. “One thing I want viewers to take away from the film is the importance of talking about uncomfortable topics of toxic masculinity, coping with the loss of a loved one and knowing when it is time to receive mental health help,” Vo explained. 

Joan and the Rolling Stone – Ethan Edwards | Greenbriar 

Joan and the Rolling Stone, shot by Ethan Edwards, was filmed in a couple locations across Manhattan. This film was screened at the Fayetteville Film Fest and the New York Shorts International Film Festival. Edwards got his inspiration for the film from reading lots of Sam Shepard one-acts. He felt the absurdity of the plays helped get him into a headspace where a talking bowling ball became a plausible storyline. When asked what he wanted viewers to take away from his film, Edwards said, “life is continually interesting.” 

I Can’t Do This Anymore - Laina Ludwig | Siloam Springs

Laina Ludwig shot I Can’t Do This Anymore while she was a student at John Brown University. Ludwig filmed both on campus as well as in a house owned by the campus. This film was screened at Fayetteville Film Festival and Sunny Side Up Film Festival where Ludwig earned the award of best first time filmmaker.

While taking film classes at John Brown, Ludwig was also taking child psychology classes. She explained that she felt the need to understand what a child experiences when their parent chooses to cope in a negative way. “I want viewers to honestly ask themselves if this is reflective of their experience,” explained Ludwig, “and if so, there are people who can help you.”

Tickets to all these film showcases are available now for $15 plus applicable fees. Purchase tickets by visiting waltonartscenter.org, by calling 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am until 5 pm or in-person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm. 

Additional upcoming showcases are Indie Films Artosphere on Saturday, May 11 and LGBTQIA+ Filmmakers on Thursday, June 13.

Get To Know Artists' Robyn Horn & Sandra Sell

Robyn Horn and Sandra Sell's work stands boldly at the intersection of art and craft. Creating unexpected forms from reclaimed wood, power tools, paintbrushes and canvas, these friends and artists independently create inspiring outcomes. Viewers can expect to see over 20 sculptural works on an architectural scale and paintings that illuminate their processes, including several pieces created exclusively for the exhibition. Presented in our Joy Pratt Markham Gallery with selections by local curator Kathy P. Thompson, this exhibition celebrates the legacy of women who live and create in Arkansas.  

The gallery is open now through April 21, 10 am – 2 pm weekdays and 60 minutes before most performances. The opening reception is Feb. 1 from 6 – 8 pm. You have three opportunities to hear directly from the artists during two gallery walk throughs, Thursday, April 4 at 1 pm and Friday, April 5 at 1 pm and a creative conversation on Thursday, April 4 at 7 pm.  

We asked both Horn and Sell a few questions to get more insight into their artwork and the exhibition that will be showcased.  

Sandra Sell:

How did you get started as an artist? 

At an early age I felt the desire to be an artist knowing I needed a way to support myself I joined the Army. Upon completing a career in the military, I relocated to Arkansas where I earned a Master of Arts in art from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. 

How will the paintings and sculptures relate in this exhibit? 

All my pieces begin as a sketch, these sketches are not locked into being 2-D or 3-D, though they may have initially started as one or the other. A single sketch can become the base design for multiple pieces. Graphite for drawing, oil for painting and carving for sculpture, it all comes down to mark making. 

What is one thing you want people to know about this exhibit? 

That it is an honor to show with Robyn, I have the utmost respect for her willingness to introduce the subtractive carving process to me. Having another artist to discuss thoughts and techniques aids in continued progress, sometimes it is as simple as “are you in the shop today?” I truly hope our passion for the process shows through the work. 

Robyn Horn:

How you get started as an artist?  

My career began with my fascination with wood. I started working on the lathe making things round. Soon after that I started carving the wood and gravitated more toward sculpture. My mother and my sister are painters, so being creative was encouraged in my family. I feel very lucky to have been able to make work for so long. It’s a very satisfying thing to be able to create things that have never existed before, things that I have designed and developed throughout my long career. 

How did the two of you start working together?  

Sandi saw a video that I had made that showed my process of carving a large redwood sculpture. She was getting toward the end of finishing her degree at UALR and she asked if she could come and visit me at my studio. We hit if off immediately and we began working together. At first, she was helping me with some of the larger carving, but soon she was making her own work and now we complement each other with ideas and concepts that we are both interested in, but which develop differently, each with our own style. 

How will the paintings and sculptures relate in this exhibit? 

I started making sculpture in the late 80’s. I didn’t begin to paint until about 2006. After painting for a few years, I looked back on my work and was surprised how much my paintings related to my sculptures. Both had a geometric look to them, both had layers with texture, so much so that the paintings almost looked three-dimensional. I had been working so long making wood sculpture that I had developed an artistic aesthetic that had transferred from my 3-D work to my 2-D work. I think they are related to each other.  

What do you hope viewers take away from this exhibit? 

There are so many good artists in the region that we are honored to be asked to show our work at the Walton Art Center. Ideally the viewers who come to the exhibition will see something inspirational they have never seen before, and hopefully it will be something that interests them long enough for them to spend some time with some of the work. We will be at the opening reception on February 1 from 6-8pm and at the Artist Walk-through April 4 at 1pm, a Creative Conversation in Walker Atrium April 4 at 7pm, and another Artist Walk-through April 5 at 1pm and will welcome questions about the exhibit.

What is one thing you want people to know about this exhibit?  

I feel very lucky to have been making art for so long. It has been very unusual to meet someone who has an interest in the same techniques I have, and who has applied the processes I use to create her own work that is dissimilar to my own. Sandi has gotten to the point where she has developed some new processes in addition to the ones I have used, and our shared interest in art is something I value greatly. We have grown from mentor and mentee to artists on an equal level, and this exhibit shows the results of that over the past 13 years. It also shows that artists can work in more than one medium (carved wood and painting) and develop work that is successful. 

Come see this free exhibition at Walton Arts Center and learn more about these Arkansas artists at robynhorn.com and sandrasell.com. Both artists also have work available at Justus Fine Art in Hot Springs. 

'Tis the Season For holiday shows and events

Whether you are looking for a traditional or a non-traditional holiday night out and everything in-between, there is no place like Walton Arts Center for the holidays. This season is packed with shows and holiday fun that everyone can enjoy with a mix of live music, theatrical presentations, film screenings and more.  

If you are looking for a more non-traditional holiday show you can spend it with the Million Dollar Quartet: Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley. The music icons come together at Sun Records to play holiday favorites with a rock and roll twist. Million Dollar Quartet Christmas will have everyone rockin’ around the Christmas tree for three performances Dec. 2-3.

The Swingles holiday tour takes the stage on Sunday, Dec. 4. at 4 pm, and it promises to be a festive and joyful event. Known as masters of their craft, the Grammy®-winning a cappella group has been captivating audiences with their innovation and mastery for nearly six decades. It’s the perfect opportunity for the whole family to enjoy holiday classics performed by one of the world’s most admired vocal groups. Presented as part of our 10x10 Arts Series, all tickets are only $10. 

A beloved holiday tradition continues when Walton Arts Center and Symphony of Northwest Arkansas present The Snowman: A Family Concert at 2 pm on Sunday, Dec. 11. SoNA will perform the original score live alongside a screening of the beloved movie. Afterward, acclaimed Music Director Paul Haas will lead the audience in a lively holiday sing-a-long. Tickets are $10. 

Country music icon, Martina McBride will celebrate the music and the magic of the holiday season when she performs The Joy of Christmas Tour at Baum Walker Hall on Sunday, Dec. 18 at 7 pm.  McBride is celebrating 12 years of The Joy of Christmas Tour, calling the 2022 version of the tour “the best one yet.”

Also don’t miss Winter Nights at Walton Arts Center a new holiday experience for the whole family. Starting Thursday, Dec. 1, the Bradberry Amphitheater & Rose Garden and Joy Pratt Markham Gallery will be decked with silver bells, frosty firs and snowy scenes. The space is open to the public 5-11 pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday through Friday, Dec. 23. Free walk-up seating, reservable firepits for $25 and snow globes for $50 are available. Drop in for a festive drink, snack or photo op. 

Groups of 10+ get discounts on most tickets at Walton Arts Center, so you can purchase tickets as a group and rent one of our festive event spaces to host a preshow or post-show reception. Our event spaces are also available for holiday rentals on non-production nights, providing the perfect space for work parties, family get-togethers and more!  

This year, introduce your family and friends to the magic of a beloved holiday tradition or start a new tradition. Tickets and information about these shows and events are available at waltonartscenter.org or by calling the box office weekdays 10 am-5 pm at 479.443.5600. 

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Representation Matters: Reflecting on LGBTQ+ History and the Theater

“Give in to love or live in fear.”

- RENT

October is LGBTQ+ History Month and at Walton Arts Center we are reflecting on the historic beauty, diversity and progress of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer communities. Since the first march for gay rights in Washington DC in 1979, the month-long celebration has grown to encompass Ally Week, National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11 and Spirit Day on Oct. 20.  

Walton Arts Center welcomes LGBTQ+ artists, musicians, actors, dancers and comedians year-round, and during LGBTQ+ History Month, we are looking back on the shows and artists who have brought their stories and experiences to our stage.

Inspired by true events, Kinky Boots, which performed to sold-out audiences at Walton Arts Center in 2015, is the story of an Englishman who struggles to save his family-run shoe factory from closure. An unexpected call from a woman who runs a shop specializing in drag queen glamour wear convinces him to try a line of women’s shoes in men’s sizes. He develops his line of “kinky boots” under the brand name “Divine Footwear,” and a business partnership flourishes. 

Actor J. Harrison Ghee, who played Lola on the national tour, commented in an interview with BUILD Series that his favorite part of the show was “the feedback from parents and kids. Because of the show, a child decides to come out to their family … now we can have a conversation and can understand where to begin because of Kinky Boots.” Kinky Boots shows audiences that when you change your mind about someone, you can change the whole world. 

"Love Can Tell a Million Stories,” declares Falsettos, the heartwarming and poignant musical about the infinite possibilities of a modern family. The story revolves around the life of a charming, intelligent, neurotic gay man named Marvin, his wife, his lover, about-to-be-Bar-Mitzvahed son, their psychiatrist and the lesbians next door.  

Falsettos takes place during the early days of the AIDS crisis. It asks audiences around the country to “think about their actions and have more respect for the battle toward equality that LGBTQ people have had to fight across generations,” said award-winning choreographer Spencer Liff. Falsettos teched and launched their national tour from Walton Arts Center in 2019. 

“Love can tell a million stories.”

- Falsettos

Other groundbreaking Broadway shows to visit Walton Arts Center include RENT, Cabaret, A Chorus Line, Avenue Q and Spring Awakening. But LGBTQ+ artists go beyond Broadway. This season, we welcome a contemporary dance company and several comedians to our stage to celebrate and recognize the LGBTQ+ experience.

On Wednesday, Nov. 29 at 7pm, the famed social commentator, social satirist and self-identifying lesbian, Fran Lebowitz promises to bring an evening of long-awaited, engaging conversation to the Walton Arts Center stage. This show was rescheduled from 2021, so limited tickets remain! 

Complexions Contemporary Ballet’s STAR DUST: From Bach to Bowie pays homage to queer music icon David Bowie on Thursday, March 16, at 7 pm. Billboard called the glam rock-inspired dance spectacular a “bold and utterly transfixing love letter to Bowie,” whose gender-bending performances and advocacy for gay rights inspired generations of lesbian, gay and transgender people. 

David Sedaris will return for his fourth performance on Tuesday, April 25 at 7pm. The author, comedian and five-time Grammy nominee has captivated audiences for decades, often challenging them to find humor in both the mundane and the eccentric. Many of Sedaris’ writings and anecdotes deal with his experiences growing up and living as a gay man, and his relationships with family members and his husband.  

Later this season, one of Rolling Stone’s best stand-up comics of all time, GLAAD award winner Tig Notaro will share her effortlessly funny storytelling with Northwest Arkansas audiences during PRIDE week. Notaro’s subject matter ranges from worldly observations, her wife and kids, health stories (Notaro is a cancer-survivor) and “general nonsense.” 

When it comes to representation, theater is often at the forefront, and while there is still much to be done to advocate equality and inclusion, many LGBTQ+ artists have found a home on the stage. Vulnerable to censorship and persecution, LGBTQ+ artists have risked everything to exist throughout history. But when LGBTQ+ stories are shared, perspectives are widened. When all people feel included, our Northwest Arkansas community becomes a better place. We are dedicated to sharing these stories here at Walton Arts Center.  

“As we travel on, love is what we will remember.” - A Chorus Line

Staff Recommendations: Try These for a Fun Night Out

With a season full of stand-out shows, it can be hard to decide which ones you just can’t miss. That’s why we’ve asked some of Walton Arts Center’s staff (the people in the know) to recommend some of the performances they are most excited about this new season. This is part two - shows that we recommend for a memorable night out! To see part one, click here!

Amazing Music

When I was President of the Mann Center, the summer home of the Philadelphia Orchestra, two members of Time for Three stepped in to save a sold-out performance after we lost power due to a nearby lightning strike. The sold-out audience of 8,000 came to hear the magnificent Philadelphia Orchestra perform Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, and with only a backup generator running, our options were limited to one microphone and a few speakers. Fortunately, Raanan Meyer on bass and Zack DePue on violin offered up their services, and dazzled the audience with their virtuosic take on old tunes, bluegrass classics and classical gems.  

Their performance lasted nearly 45-minutes while the singers, orchestra members and choir members waited patiently for the full power to be restored – which never happened. Although we never heard Beethoven that evening, we realized we had witnessed a special, albeit unexpected evening of joyous music making that left us thrilled and wanting more.   

I always wonder how good the show would have been with full power and the third member of their trio!

Peter B. Lane, President and CEO

Date Night Pick

STAR DUST: From Bach to Bowie had me hooked just from the name! If you are not familiar with Complexions Contemporary Ballet, they are a phenomenal ballet company formed by two Alvin Ailey alumni with a singular approach to reinventing dance and contemporary ballet. From Bach to Bowie is a two-shows-in-one tribute to artists who managed to create their own musical hemispheres. Bach 25, set to the music of Johann Sebastian and Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, is an exploration of love and alliances, perfectly merging contemporary dance with ballet technique. Then, after intermission, Star Dust features Bowie’s most iconic hits in a spectacular dance extravaganza with glam-rock inspired costumes. Hello, date night? Two tickets, please!      

Rachel Burkevich, Programming Specialist

Girls Night Out - Culture Night Out

For my second pick (Rachel couldn’t just pick one!), I have to recommend this incredible, multi-disciplined, multi-cultural group, LADAMA. This a Latin alternative band consists of four musician/activists who originate from Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela and the U.S. Their music fuses sounds from South America and the Caribbean with soul, R&B and pop. I’m calling this one a “don’t miss” not only because their sound is gorgeously innovative, but also because their mission is to empower women and girls through voice, percussion and movement. Perfect for a girls night out! Plus, LADAMA is part of our 10X10 Arts Series, meaning tickets are only $10, so you’ll have plenty of money to get some drinks at concessions! Cheap tickets, Latin music AND female empowerment? Yes, please! (Speaking of Latin music and female empowerment – also be sure to check out Aida Cuevas on Oct. 20.)

Can’t-Miss Comedy

Last, but absolutely not least (still Rachel!), I am picking Tig Notaro for a perfect night of comedy. Tig is known mostly for her deadpan comedy and hilarious stories about her wife, twin sons and cat named Fluff. She is a favorite on numerous talk shows and has been nominated for a WGA, a Critic’s Choice Award, two GLAAD Awards and two Grammy Awards. Her memoir, I’m Just a Person, is a New York Times Bestseller. This show is during 2023 NWA Pride and is sure to be popular, so get your tickets now before they are sold out!

Rachel Burkevich, Programming Specialist

Purchase tickets for these others shows on our 2022/23 season now!

Hispanic Heritage: More Than Just a Month-Long Celebration

Each year during Hispanic Heritage Month, Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, communities gather to honor the beauty, legacy and contributions of Hispanic culture around the world. Here at Walton Arts Center, we are excited to celebrate Hispanic and Latin-American artists this season through our Mosaix program initiative. 

Aida Cuevas, the Queen of Mariachi, is celebrating 45 years on tour with her new tour Yo Creo Que Es Tiempo, featuring the Mariachi Aztlan.

Mosiax programs are a collection of concerts and arts experiences curated to celebrate the cultural “tiles” that come together to make up Northwest Arkansas. Mosaix was first launched in 2020 as a stand-alone festival highlighting a single culture through art and performances. Since then, Mosaix has transitioned to a year-round celebration with performances spread throughout the season that represent the many diverse cultures present in NWA. This year, we are showcasing performances from Latin American cultures. 

Walton Arts Center is bringing “the very best of Mexico’s music” to Northwest Arkansas - perfect timing as a finale for Hispanic Heritage Month. We are thrilled to welcome Aida Cuevas on Thursday, Oct. 20. With a 46-year career that spans both traditional mariachi and Latin genres, and more than 40 albums, she is considered one of Mexico’s most prolific and important female voices.  

Among her many accolades, Cuevas was the first female singer in the mariachi category to win a Grammy®. She also has a Latin Grammy®, as well as 11 nominations for the best mariachi/ranchero album category. She masterfully encapsulates the voice of her beautiful country and honors its history and traditions, while breaking barriers and forging a path forward. 

Cuevas’ performance is also a part of the 10x10 Arts series, a collection of 10 performances chosen to encourage and expand awareness of diverse cultures. All shows in this series are just $10.  

The Edward Simon Trio is honoring female Latin songwriters in Femeninas: The Songs of Latin American Women.

Your exploration of Hispanic and Latin American art can continue throughout the Walton Arts Center season.  

On Friday, Dec. 16, the Edward Simon Trio will present Femeninas: The Songs of Latin American Women. The show highlights female songwriters from Chile, Cuba, Argentina and Brazil. The group will be joined by award-winning Mexican vocalist Magos Herrera and percussionist Luis Quintero. Music starts at 7:30 pm, and tickets range from $33-53.  

Rarely can you see films made by independent filmmakers locally, and it’s even more rare to see works by independent filmmakers of Hispanic origin. Now you can. Join us for a mini film festival at Walton Arts Center on Friday, Jan. 13, featuring films by Central and South American independent filmmakers. Titles are selected by the Fayetteville Film Fest and will be announced soon. Tickets are just $15.  

Chick Corea Afro-Caribbean Experience with Elio Villafranca & Friends will bring a distinctly Latin flavor to their jazz performance on Friday, Jan. 27 at 7:30 pm. Jazz icon Chick Corea passed away in 2020, but his inspired music lives on through Villafranca and the international and intergenerational artists coming to Starr Theater for this show. Tickets are $33-53. 

Experience LADAMA, an international collective of women building community through sound, when they perform on Thursday, March 30. Patrons can expect to hear original pop music in English, Spanish and Portuguese. The show starts at 7 pm and tickets are $10. LADAMA is also a part of the 10x10 Arts Series.  

These artists have left incredible impact on Hispanic music and culture. Similarly, Hispanic culture has left an undeniably rich and meaningful impact on Northwest Arkansas. Through the Mosaix initiative and the annual celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, we hope to encourage a deeper cultural richness within our community that comes from understanding and welcoming diversity.  

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Don’t limit your celebration of Hispanic culture to just one month. Explore the beauty, joy and traditions throughout the season at Walton Arts Center!

Host an Unforgettable Event at Walton Arts Center

Shannon Eubanks, events director, styles a table for an event at WAC.

In November 2016, Walton Arts Center completed a massive $23 million renovation and expansion. More than 30,000 square feet were added and improvements were made across the venue. This expansion has allowed Walton Arts Center to host more events than ever before, including private engagements such as weddings, corporate events, fundraisers, parties and more.  

“Flexibility was key in the design,” says Shannon Eubanks, events director at Walton Arts Center. “We wanted to develop spaces that can be configured to fit different size audiences and events. We’re a non-traditional venue in the sense that we were not constructed with just shows or meetings in mind, but rather we sought to extend the beauty of the stage, beyond the stage and into our other spaces.”  

Walton Arts Center is a hidden gem when it comes to event venues in Arkansas. The space is unique, it’s in a prime location in downtown Fayetteville and booking with us comes with plenty of perks.  

Walker Atrium’s floor to ceiling windows and signature chandelier make beautiful additions to an event.

The modern design of the space is perfect for party, wedding and event planners who are looking for something different that your typical ballroom, conference center or barn venue. The architecture of Walton Arts Center is stunning and features beautiful additions such as floor-to-ceiling windows, signature chandelier, grand staircase, art gallery and more. In addition to having ample space for your guests, Walton Arts Center is known for providing an exquisite backdrop for your party or wedding photos.  

And speaking of weddings - the Walker Atrium and Pace Balcony make for a grand entrance for any bride, with beautiful natural light and staircase leading to guests below. The Bradberry Amphitheater and Rose Garden is a gorgeous outdoor space featuring climbing roses on trellises and twinkling lights, perfect for a ceremony, reception or even a conference mixer. And of course, Starr Theater is a black box that can be configured in a number of ways for any event.  

Dickson Street is the “it” place to be in Northwest Arkansas. Walton Arts Center’s location is prime real estate when it comes to hosting an unforgettable event — within walking distance to some of the best restaurants, bars and shopping the area has to offer. Your out-of-town guests will be happy to hear that there is a hotel within walking distance and that the venue is easy to navigate to whether on foot or by car.  

Walton Arts Center spaces can be transformed for incredibly unique event locations!

Other venue perks include:  

• Multiple dressing rooms that can accommodate up to 30 people 

• Walton Arts Center production team on-hand to make your events lighting, sound and stage absolutely perfect 

• Bar services with licensed bartenders and specialty drink options 

• Tables, chairs, set-up and tear down, including in booking 

Walton Arts Center offers a chic and elegant location for any number of engagements and occasions. To find out more about hosting your event in this remarkable venue, call 479-443-5600 or click below.

Fayetteville Film Fest Celebrates and Nurtures Arkansas Filmmakers: A Q&A with Russell Sharman

Walton Arts Center has partnered with Fayetteville Film Fest to bring an evening of narrative and documentary films created by Arkansas filmmakers on Friday, Feb. 25, at 7 pm.

Fayetteville Film Fest selected five titles for inclusion in Arkansas Filmmakers Showcase that will be screened in two blocks with a 15-minute intermission.

“The films selected for this year’s Arkansas Filmmakers Showcase shine a light on the incredible range of filmmaking talent across the state of Arkansas,” said Russell Sharman, co-executive director of the Fayetteville Film Fest.

This is an exciting event for Fayetteville, Northwest Arkansas and Arkansas as a whole. Walton Arts Center is thrilled to host the Arkansas Filmmakers Showcase and recently sat down with Russell to learn more about the films selected for this event.

WAC: Why is it exciting or important to highlight Arkansas filmmakers?

Russell: The Arkansas film industry continues to grow at an exciting pace, with more national and international productions finding their way to the state - and to Northwest Arkansas in particular - every year. But we’ve also seen incredible growth in the local filmmaking community over the past decade.

Still shot from the film Session 1 by Arkansas filmmaker Jazymne Black

Those two trends work together in a kind of artistic and commercial ecosystem. The more local productions generate talented and well-trained crew, not to mention quality, award-winning content that showcases the region, the more attractive the state becomes to outside investment from studios and production companies. Celebrating and nurturing that homegrown filmmaking community is an integral part of that ecosystem. And that’s what regional, grassroots film festivals like the Fayetteville Film Fest, and so many others, are all about. It’s not just getting to screen films you might not otherwise have the chance to see. It’s about celebrating and nurturing that community.

WAC: Were most of these films also shot or cast in Arkansas?

Russell: All 5 of the films in the Arkansas Filmmakers program were shot right here in Arkansas.

Still shot from the film Good Gorgeous Hell shot in Fayetteville by Arkansas filmmaker Reed Cash Carson

WAC: Can you tell readers about the process by which these films have been chosen?

Russell: Each year we screen dozens of amazing short and feature length content at the Fayetteville Film Fest. And we always highlight which films have an Arkansas connection so our audience can experience just how amazing the homegrown talent can be. For this program, we selected a few films that we felt represented the broadest possible range of Arkansas-based cinema from our most recent fest. We couldn’t be more excited to give audiences another chance to experience these little cinematic gems on the big screen.

WAC: What was the criteria for film submissions to be considered?

Movie poster from the film And the Winner Is by Arkansas filmmaker Michael Day

Russell: We have a range of criteria for any film submitted to the annual festival. And submissions are open right now! Folks can find all of the details on our website www.fayettevillefilmfest.com. Submissions are open until July 31st. But Arkansas filmmakers can submit FOR FREE until May 31st.

WAC: What can audiences expect from these selections? Are they fictional, shorts, documentaries, etc.?

Russell: This program of short films includes two documentaries and three narrative films, so a little something for everyone. That includes one of our annual pitch prize winners, which is an exciting event we host each year during the festival. Filmmakers get a few minutes to pitch their film idea, and we give the winner $2,000 to help make their film! Good Gorgeous Hell won the pitch price in 2020 and we were able to screen the finished film last year. The program also includes two films - And the Winner Is and Once Forgotten - made by recipients of our Micheaux Award, a film fund that supports filmmakers of color from across the state.

 WAC: What are some of the themes that the films explore? 

Russell: The themes are as varied as the films themselves, but there does seem to be a consistent interest in probing questions of justice and past trauma. Which is not surprising given the past couple of years. I think we can all identify with the themes these films are exploring.

WAC: Can you tell readers a little about Fayetteville Film Fest’s history and how long you’ve been around?

Still shot from the film Once Forgotten by Arkansas filmmaker Obed Lamy

Russell: The Fayetteville Film Fest is a grassroots, local film festival now in its 14th year. It was founded by a core group of filmmakers and film lovers and continues to be an all-volunteer, non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating independent film and fostering a community of filmmakers right here in Arkansas. We host an annual film festival each fall in downtown Fayetteville, and have created various initiatives to support the local filmmaking community, including the Fayetteville Film Prize and the Micheaux Award and Film Lab.

WAC: Are there opportunities to volunteer or be a member of Fayetteville Film Fest?

Russell: As an all-volunteer organization, we are ALWAYS looking for volunteers. Whether that means helping out at our annual event - in exchange for free tickets and a snazzy t-shirt - or getting involved year-round. We’d love to hear from you!

Movie poster from the film Part of the Kingdom by Arkansas filmmaker Makenna Cofer

WAC: What do you hope that audiences take away from viewing the Arkansas Filmmakers Showcase?

Russell: We hope everyone walks away with a new appreciation for the exciting talents coming out of our region and our state. Most of the films in this program were made by student filmmakers. This is the next generation of filmmakers. And we can’t wait to see what they do next.

WAC: Is there anything else you’d like readers to know about the Arkansas Filmmakers Showcase or Fayetteville Film Fest?

Russell: Our mission is to build and support the filmmaking community. We’d love as many partners in that mission as possible. For more information on how you can help, visit our website www.fayettevillefilmfest.org.

Arkansas Filmmakers Showcase Schedule

Good Gorgeous Hell (29:05)

• Director: Reed Cash Carson

• A manic single father with a mysterious black eye desperately tries to win back the love of his 10-year old son on a delirious day in Arkansas. Based on the writer/director's real childhood.

Session 1 (9:18)

• Director: Jazmyne Black

• A young Black woman contemplates the struggles of her role in life in modern-day society over the course of a day. Her quest for answers uncovers a shocking revelation.

Once Forgotten (23:27)

• Director: Obed Lamy

• Reframing the story of three enslaved individuals lynched in Washington County, Arkansas, in 1856 as a local community undertaking to reestablish the truth of the events surrounding their lynching and honor their memory.

And the Winner Is (14:32)

• Director: Michael Day

• Sydney Davis finally wins the most prestigious award for best film director. While he believes he has created more opportunities for Black filmmakers, his wife, Tonya, believes he may have compromised his morals and beliefs to secure the award.

Part of the Kingdom (29:57)

• Director: Makenna Cofer

• An investigation of the unique struggle LGBTQ+ students face at Christian universities, specifically at John Brown University. Discussion surrounding the LGBTQ+ community is full of heated tension in Siloam Springs. Part of The Kingdom amplifies the voices of the LGBTQ+ students at JBU, providing them with a platform to share their story. This piece tackles conversations that are uncomfortable for most Christian communities, teaching us that it should be safe to be known.

Additional upcoming film events presented in partnership with the Fayetteville Film Festival include Best of 2021 Fest at 7 pm on Saturday, March 12, and Indie Films Artosphere at 7 pm on Thursday, May 26. Film selections for these two showcases will be announced at a later date.

 Tickets to each of these film showcases are available now for $15 plus applicable fees. Purchase tickets in-person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm, by calling 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am until 5 pm or by visiting waltonartscenter.org.

Give the Gift of the Arts this Holiday Season

The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year – a time where generosity flows and goodwill abounds. This is also the time of year where many people choose to make donations to organizations and causes they care about. If you are looking to support a cause that gives back to our community, consider making a monetary gift to Walton Arts Center this year.

As a nonprofit organization, Walton Arts Center shows and education programming are made possible by the generosity of our community. We depend on the donations from individuals and families, as well as corporate giving, to help us achieve our mission of bringing the best performances to Northwest Arkansas each year.

With a holiday gift to Walton Arts Center, you support Arts Education and Arts Access Initiatives that help build a better community here in Northwest Arkansas. A gift of any size helps share the arts with local school children through field trips and in-school residencies and also helps offer accessible programming to community members through programs like Take A Seat and the 10x10 Arts Series.

• $10 represents one ticket to a Colgate Classroom Series or 10x10 Arts Series performance

• $50 represents a family of five attending a world class performance through Take A Seat

• $100 represents six hours of professional development for one teacher through Arts with Education (AWE) Institute

• $250 represents a field trip for one classroom to a Colgate Classroom Series performance

Walmart Associates, Triple Your Impact!

Additionally, between December 6 and January 26, Walmart is matching associate donations 2:1 during its Season of Giving Back campaign as part of the Associate Giving Program (AGP).

This means that if a Walmart, Sam’s Club or an affiliated brand associate gives $5, Walmart will give $10. Walmart will match an associate’s donation up to $10,000 until the match cap of $3 million is met.

If you are a U.S. Walmart, Sam’s Club or affiliated brand associate, consider participating in the Season of Giving Back campaign by making a gift to Walton Arts Center through the AGP page on OneWalmart. While on the Walmart network, associates can access the Season of Giving Back campaign page and recommend a U.S.- based nonprofit to receive their donation.

We are so grateful for every patron who walks in our door and for every donation that helps to make it all possible. With your gift, you are making a difference to so many people. Thank you from all of us at Walton Arts Center. We wish you the warmest holiday and happiest New Year.

Northwest Arkansas Couple Experienced the Real Come From Away

Jason (seated) and Britny (center) Yandell with their hosts in Newfoundland. (Photo courtesy of the Yandells)

Jason and Britny Yandell have been in Fayetteville for nearly 17 years. Just three years prior to their move here, 9/11 shook our country and the world. Most Americans can tell you exactly where they were when they found out what had happened, and some can recall even the most mundane details of that fateful Tuesday. Jason and Britny are no different, but their memories focus much more on a little town called Gander

Come From Away is the hit Broadway musical that tells the remarkable true story of what happened to the passengers of 38 diverted planes on 9/11. Rather than arriving at their intended destinations, 7,000 passengers were forced to land in the small town of Gander in Newfoundland, Canada. Jason and Britny were two of those passengers who were taken into the homes and the hearts of the local townspeople.

Returning home to the US from a vacation in Prague, the couple were on a Delta flight when they were rerouted. They had been in the air for seven hours when they were told they were being diverted. “No one could tell us why,” Britny remembers.

The captain came on the radio and announced they were going to land. Jason said, “I don’t think he even said where. Just we were going to land because of a national airspace emergency and that’s all he said.”

Jason said that after taxiing clear, they had to stay in the plane on the ground because there was fear that there could still be terrorists aboard planes. While on the ground, Jason said they found out what had happened.

“The captain said there was a terrorist attack and was really holding back tears – well, crying really – on the radio. And for the captain of a wide-bodied airplane, that is obviously not common, so we knew it was a big deal.”

A view of busses that transported the “come from aways” around Gander. (Photo courtesy of the Yandells)

The Yandells and their fellow passengers were kept on their plane for 18 more hours In total they had spent more than an entire day on the plane. “We got bussed out (to a neighboring town) and went to go get deodorant and toothbrushes,” Britny said. “We hadn’t brushed our teeth in 28 hours!”

At that little convenience store where they stopped for essentials, is where Jason and Britny’s story began their very own Come From Away experience.

“Judy was running the convenience store, and she immediately shut down the store,” Jason said.

Britney elaborated saying, “She made us get in her car!”

Jason went on to say, “She drove us to her house, made us feel at home and then just left us for the rest of the day in her home. She went back to open up the store and go to work.”

Originally, the Yandells had been assigned to stay in the small gymnasium that had been set up with cots. Instead, they (along with another passenger from their plane) were welcomed into Judy and Tom’s home, where they stayed for the next five days.

“They gave us their bedroom,” said Britny. “We didn’t know it at the time that we were in their room. They had been sleeping on the floor.”

The Yandell’s experience with the hospitality of the people of Newfoundland mirrors what audiences experience when watching Come From Away. One of the lines from the musical that always get audiences laughing has a clerk saying, “Thank you for shopping at Walmart. Do you want to come back to my house for a shower?” And that’s how it really happened. The locals literally opened their homes to the “plane people” and made sure they were as comfortable as possible.

“The only word that comes to mind is benevolence. The whole experience. I don’t understand how they did it, but I guess it’s just an innate behavior. It was northing they had to do, it was just what they’re used to doing.” Britny said.

“I think also, they understood the gravity of the situation – how much we were hurting because our country was under attack.” Jason added.

Another aspect of the musical that Jason and Britny got to experience firsthand was getting “screeched-in,” a fun ceremony to make those who ‘come from away’ official Newfoundlanders. They said a boat that sits on the bank in the little town was brought in to the gym for the party, where they all sat and were given shots of rum and made to kiss a cod.

The real “come from aways” experience the Screech-in ceremony (Photo courtesy of the Yandells)

“The ceremony was so much fun. We kissed the fish. We drank the rum – and it was potent!” Britny recalls laughing. “Everybody got in the boat,” Jason said. “And these are people from all over the world. It was really cool that we’re all together and bonding together, trying to make each other feel better.”

Jason and Britny could have never imagined that what they experienced in Newfoundland could one day be turned into a hit Broadway musical. In fact, Britny was taken by complete surprise when she first heard of the play’s existence on a “60 Minutes” segment.

“I was in the kitchen and was like, whoa, wait, time out. what… they’re doing a play about the experience we all shared on 9/11? Are you kidding me? So, I told Jason, we have to see this. I don’t know how we’re going to see it, but we have to.” Walton Arts Center gave Jason and Britny that opportunity.

Britny said that the musical could have been taken directly from their memories. When the question “Where were you on 9/11?” comes up, they said that they usually tell their incredible story, but there’s no way to fully make people understand how special it was. Britney says “We know the experience and I just love that more people can experience it now. Because, let me tell you, they nailed it. They really nailed every aspect.” She says of the musical.

The Yandells and the other 7,000 passengers experienced something truly incredible. Come From Away is the uplifting story of the power of the human spirit that Jason and Britny assure us is accurate. “We were there five days,” she said, “All the people that we met, all the different personalities, the stories they shared, we shared… They taught us love.”

Just like in the show, the day the planes were finally able to leave it started to rain. (Photos courtesy of the Yandells).

Five Memories to Share through "My Walton Arts Center"

We recently marked our 29th anniversary at Walton Arts Center. To celebrate the milestone and in looking ahead to our 30th anniversary, we launched My Walton Arts Center, a year-long campaign to collect memories from patrons, volunteers, staff, artists and partners.

The project launches as we are gearing up for the return of Broadway shows and full-scale performances after over a year of modified operations due to the pandemic. During the performance suspension, we consistently heard from patrons and community members about how much Walton Arts Center means to them. This inspired us to capture those memories and celebrate our place in the cultural fabric of Northwest Arkansas for nearly three decades.

 We’re looking for all kinds of memories—the first show you saw at WAC, what you value most about WAC, a favorite memory attending a WAC event with family or friends, a time you got to be part of an educational experience or why you consider WAC to be your theater.

 Memories can be submitted in two ways.

Option one: call us and leave a voicemail! We’ve set up a special My Walton Arts Center voice mail box. Just call 479.571.2702 and state your name, the city you’re calling from and your memory.

Option two: visit our website. The My Walton Arts Center page on our website. Follow the instructions there to record your memory.

 Our goal is to incorporate memories from the community into our 30th anniversary celebration in 2022. By recording your memory, patrons give Walton Arts Center permission to use their voice or memory in next year’s celebration.

Five Ideas for Memories to Share

Your First Time at Walton Arts Center

WAC’s Grand Opening in 1992

We’ve been here for almost 30 years—did you see a show in our first season in 1992? Or maybe you discovered WAC when you recently moved to the area? Tell us how you found us and what the first performance you saw in our venue was!

A favorite show you’ve seen at WAC

In a normal year, we host over 500 events in the Northwest Arkansas region including Broadway, dance, classical music, VoiceJam, Artosphere and more. What is your favorite performance you’ve seen? Maybe a singer-songwriter you discovered through West Street Live, seeing touring Broadway show you’d waited years to experience, traipsing through Artosphere: Off the Grid with family or even a concert at the AMP? Tell us about it!

An Educational Experience

During a normal school year, over 26,000 students hop onto school busses to see an educational show at WAC. Did you take a field trip to WAC as a child? Maybe you’re a teacher who looks forward to bringing their students to a show—or even a parent who makes a point to be a field trip chaperone when your child is heading to WAC. Tell us what you learned from visiting WAC or why you enjoyed the educational show!

Your Performance at WAC

We want to hear from artists too! Touring performers visiting our venue often say that the Northwest Arkansas area is a hidden gem on their tour route. Have you performed at WAC before? Tell us why stopping here sticks out in your memory.

Special Events

WAC knows how to plan a party! We host special events like Art of Wine and the Masquerade Ball, but we also throw patron events too! Did you attend a gala, a private party or even a wedding at WAC? Tell us why your special night at WAC was one to remember.

Patrons enjoy Art of Wine: Uncorked! (Novo Studio)

Nonprofit Partner of the Month: Arkansas Immigrant Defense

This winter Walton Arts Center launched the Nonprofit Assistance Program to provide assistance to fellow nonprofits within our community. Made possible by support from Walmart, the Nonprofit Assistance Program enables Walton Arts Center and the Walmart AMP to share resources, like space and the talents of our team, so local nonprofits can continue to pursue their missions.

We might not all serve the same people or the same causes, but we all work together to make Northwest Arkansas better.

Our team of advocates contacted local nonprofits about the resources available to them through the program, including:

• Complimentary space for a socially distanced meeting or small private event

• Walton Arts Center and/or the Walmart AMP as a drop-off location for collection drives

• Consultation with staff members

• Professional services

• Volunteers for projects and events

The response has been amazing, not just in the requests for assistance, but in the myriad of nonprofits who continue working hard, despite current challenges, to meet the needs of our community. If you want to learn more about the Nonprofit Assistance Program please visit waltonartscenter.org/nap.

In addition to helping, we also wanted to introduce you to some of the dedicated people and organizations who are making a difference every day. So, we will be highlighting a nonprofit partner of the month. This month we want to introduce you to Arkansas Immigrant Defense (AID). Walton Arts Center provided volunteers to help pack and deliver fresh food to area immigrant and refugee families.

5 Things You Need to Know About Arkansas Immigrant Defense

Luis Paganelli Marin

Luis Paganelli Marin, COVID Coordinator for AID

1.    AID is a nonprofit law firm that provides immigration legal services to immigrants and refugees, community education and advocacy primarily in NWA.

2.    As a result of the pandemic, AID clients have experienced income loss and food insecurity due to reduced work hours. In response, AID created a fresh food assistance program in partnership with St. James Food Pantry.

3.    The program has served over 4,200 individuals since October 2020 and will continue through the end of April 2021.

4.    Volunteers meet every two weeks to pack and deliver 160 boxes full of fresh foods to the doorsteps of food-insecure immigrant and refugee families across Washington, Benton and Carroll counties.

5.    Through partnerships with UAMS and the NWA Council, AID has also helped meet the needs of clients and members of the immigrant and refugee community by providing health education and rent/utility assistance.

How You Can Get Involved

What is AID’s biggest need right now?

AID clients have disproportionately suffered from the social and economic effects of the pandemic and require broad financial relief for rent, utilities and other essentials including food.

How can people get involved with AID?

People can get involved by following us on social media, sharing our posts, signing up for packing or delivery volunteer opportunities and by reaching out to AID offering your advocacy, expertise and passion.

What do you want people to know/understand about the immigrant and refugee community in Northwest Arkansas?

Like other regions in the U.S., immigrants and refugees are integral to our communities. They are your friends, neighbors, co-workers and loved ones who seek to thrive with dignity in NWA.

Learn more about the work of AID at aidarkansas.com.

Statement on Discriminatory Legislation in Arkansas

The current Arkansas legislature has passed and continues to discuss policies that unfairly restrict rights of the LGBTQ+ community, specifically transgender Arkansans. This type of legislation does not advance the interests of all Arkansans as it harms individuals and impacts the ability of businesses and industries across the state to recruit talent and bring artists and tourists to the region.

This legislation does not reflect Walton Arts Center's core values and commitment to create inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome to experience the performing arts. We are committed to working alongside stakeholders across the state to ensure Arkansas laws reflect an inclusive and equitable community.

Walton Arts Center’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Mission Statement

Walton Arts Center brings great performing artists and entertainers from around the world to Northwest Arkansas, connecting and engaging people through inspiring arts experiences. We are committed to presenting these experiences in and from an environment that is inclusive, equitable, and diverse, free from hate and violence. We embrace all races, ethnicities, and genders with compassion; we amplify authentic voices; and we exemplify curiosity about the peoples, cultures, and perspectives of our global community.

Diversity Digest: Black History Month

Each month, Walton Arts Center’s staff Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee distributes an employee newsletter highlighting the DEI focus for the month, recommendations on DEI resources and more. Starting this month, we’re sharing portions of that newsletter here on our blog. This month’s newsletter celebrates Black History Month.

Black History Month Must-See Movies and TV by Mallory Barker, School Services Specialist

The weather outside is frightful and most of us are still stuck inside a la COVID, so what better way to celebrate Black History Month than with the perfect binge-worthy watch list!  Whether you want to take a look back and celebrate where we have come from, relive historic moments, relish in a good love story, or just enjoy a good Indie film, this list has got you covered! Here’s my list of must-see films and television during Black History Month. 

1.    Sylvie’s Love – When a young woman meets an aspiring saxophonist in her father’s record shop in 1950’s Harlem, their love ignites a sweeping romance that transcends changing times, geography and professional success. Streaming on Amazon Prime

2.    Queen Sugar Queen Sugar, follows the life of three siblings who move to Louisiana to claim an inheritance from their recently departed father-an 800-acre sugarcane farm. Season four begins on February 16th so you can binge the first three seasons now and catch new episodes on OWN.

3.    Insecure-Created by and starring Issa Rae, this acclaimed HBO comedy series centers around best friends Issa and Molly as they navigate the challenges of being black women who defy all stereotypes. Streaming on HBO Max

4.    Toni Morrison, The Pieces I Am - Author Toni Morrison leads an assembly of her peers, critics and colleagues on an exploration of race, history, America and the human condition. Streaming on Hulu

5.    Malcolm and Marie - John David Washington and Zendaya star in this “not a love story…love story”. Washington stars as a filmmaker who returns home with his girlfriend (Zendaya) on the night of a successful movie premiere. Smoldering tensions and painful revelations push them toward a romantic reckoning.  Streaming on Netflix

6.    One Night in Miami - On the night of Feb. 25, 1964, in Miami, Cassius Clay joins Jim Brown, Sam Cooke and Malcom X, and they discuss the responsibility of being successful black men during the civil rights movement. Streaming on Amazon

7.    I Am Not Your Negro - This 2016 documentary film is based on James Baldwin's unfinished manuscript Remember This House. Narrated by actor Samuel L. Jackson, the film explores the history of racism in the United States through Baldwin's reminiscences of civil rights leaders Medgar Evers, Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr., as well as his personal observations of American history. Streaming on Hulu

8.    Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom - Tensions and temperatures rise at a Chicago music studio in 1927 when fiery, fearless blues singer Ma Rainey joins her band for a recording session. Streaming on Netflix

9.    Bridgerton - The eight close-knit siblings of the Bridgerton family look for love and happiness in London high society. Inspired by Julia Quinn’s bestselling novels. Streaming on Netflix

10.  Middle of Nowhere – When her husband is sentenced to eight years in prison, Ruby drops out of medical school in order to focus on her husband’s well-being while he’s incarcerated-leading her on a journey of self-discovery in the process.

I Was Wrong: Reflections On Growing as an Ally by Rachel Burkevich, Programming Specialist

Originally, I had intended to call out “Black Female Excellence” in this piece….

That is, until I read a blog post shared on Facebook by a playwright who I had intended to highlight no less. The post is called Full Stop: Casually Anti-Black Behaviors You Need to Quit NOW and is written by playwright Sharai Bohannon.

Her FIRST point in a list of 17 is “Don’t co-opt phrases like ‘Black Excellence,’ ‘Black Girl Magic,’ or ‘Black Boy Joy,’ or anything similar to those phrases.” Which is exactly what I was about to do.

I encourage everyone to take the time and read her entire post linked above, but basically she is saying that those phrases and accolades are not for white people to determine and give. 

That realization just reminds me The point that I would now like to make with this piece is that we are always learning. It is so important to note when we are wrong and not hide in our shame. By sharing our ignorance others can learn, and the trauma we cause can finally begin to dissipate. Admit when we’re wrong. Apologize (publically when necessary). Do not pretend that it didn’t happen. And then change the behavior.

Having said that, we should absolutely not ignore lists of “Black Excellence” or Netflix’s “Celebrating Black Voices” category - but we should notice who has made the list. Who has collected these names, movies, songs, etc. and told me they are important? 

I was wrong to assume that I had any authority to curate a list of “Black Excellence”. I apologize and I will do better. I will continue to listen, read, and use my privilege to amplify voices that are often not heard. Please read Shari’s full post. 

Spirit of Holidaze Continues with Charitable Donations

Holidaze brought some cheer to the end of a difficult 2020 when the pop-up bar was able to safely open in Walton Arts Center’s indoor and outdoor spaces. Now, that cheer is continuing into 2021 in a tangible way with charitable donations made to local nonprofits from the bar’s proceeds.

The Stony Bird was the signature cocktail for Holidaze, and a Secret Santa donated $10 for each one purchased. Patrons purchased 928 cocktails resulting in $9,280 raised. Fayetteville Independent Restaurant Alliance, Northwest Arkansas Equality, Peace at Home Family Shelter and Roots Festival’s Meals for Musicians will each receive $2,320. Each of these nonprofits does important work for our community.

Two of these nonprofits, Fayetteville Independent Restaurant Alliance (FIRA) and Meals for Musicians benefit employees in industries hard-hit by the pandemic. FIRA provides resources for local hospitality professionals with a focus on livable wages, healthier lifestyles and access to benefits that are not often prioritized in the industry. Roots Meals for Musicians provides meal care packages for members of the music community to help them bridge the gap during these uncertain times.

The two other nonprofits benefitting from Holidaze proceeds, NWA Equality and Peace at Home Family Shelter, focus on creating safe, inclusive spaces in our community. NWA Equality provides programming, education and advocacy to serve, connect and empower the LGBTQ+ community in Northwest Arkansas.  Peace at Home Family Shelter provides shelter, services and support to women, men, and children fleeing domestic violence in Northwest Arkansas.

In addition to funds raised from Stony Bird sales, FIRA also hosted its annual “Nog Off” eggnog competition. Participants included bartenders and mixologists from nine local restaurants, bars and breweries. Amber Hurlbut from Infusion took home the trophy, and the event raised an additional $800 for the FIRA which will be used in their efforts to provide relief to hospitality professionals

As the host location for Holidaze, Walton Arts Center’s Ghost Light Recovery Fund will receive $30,000. The Ghost Light Recovery Fund helps Walton Arts Center offset lost revenue from canceled performances, continue education and public programming, maintain facilities and support staff until full-scale performances can resume.

More than 9,400 patrons attended Holidaze during its 40-day run. Holidaze and Walton Arts Center were able to employ 22 hospitality workers and 30 event staff, and throughout the run seven artists or groups were hired to provide entertainment for patrons. Workers in these industries have been hard-hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, and this seasonal employment provided some relief for the workers and artists.

We are proud to have partnered with Holidaze for the 2020 iteration of the festive Fayetteville favorite, and even prouder of the good it will do in our community.  

Education Returns to WAC with Small Group and Virtual Tours

Under normal circumstances, Walton Arts Center’s Learning and Engagement teams would be welcoming busloads of students from area schools into our building for Colgate Classroom Series performances, artist talkbacks, workshops and other educational activities. While that isn’t possible right now—that hasn’t stopped our team from finding new ways of engaging with students!

Sallie Zazal shows the Teen Leadership ‘X’Perience Group the Baum Walker Hall stage

The L&E team is now offering in-person and virtual venue tours, giving students or community groups an opportunity to learn about the various spaces in Walton Arts Center including the unique opportunity to go on-stage and backstage.

Recently, the L&E team continued WAC’s relationship with the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce’s Teen Leadership ‘X’Perience. The program engages high school juniors and educates them about community issues while also connecting them with local businesses, nonprofits, educational institutions and public offices.

Two groups from the program’s current cohort visited WAC in early November for small, socially distant venue tours lead by Sallie Zazal, director of L&E. The students also learned about WAC’s history and place in the Fayetteville community. After the tour, they were joined by President and CEO, Peter B. Lane, in the Bradberry Rose Garden for a question and answer session. The students diligently took notes and photos for a presentation given to their larger cohort.

Peter B. Lane answers questions from students in the Bradberry Amphitheater and Rose Garden

“It’s been so great to have students in the building again,” Zazal said of the tour. “Working with students is such a huge part of who we are and what we do and we didn’t realize how much we were missing that interaction until we started giving these tours again. It’s really helped us rediscover our purpose, and it’s so good to have learning happening in Walton Arts Center.”

For larger groups, the L&E team has adapted their venue tour to a virtual format. The virtual tour process was recently piloted with a local Girl Scout troop. Each troop member joined the tour from home via a Zoom meeting while L&E team members Mallory Barker, Sallie Zazal and Dr. Patricia Relph joined the meeting from various spaces in the venue, allowing for smoother transitions during the tour.

Mallory Barker took the troop through patron-facing spaces including Tyson Plaza, Walker Atrium and the General Mills Box Office. Sallie Zazal then showed off the stage in Baum Walker Hall and included educational touchpoints about the theater’s proscenium arch and fly system. Finally, Dr. Pat taught the scouts about Starr Theater’s black box layout and how it can be adapted for many kinds of performances.

The virtual tour format was successful and has been offered to all teachers that the L&E team works with on a regular basis. Any groups interested in a tour can contact Sallie Zazal at szazal@waltonartscenter.org.

Dickson Street Gift Guide

Small businesses and nonprofits have been hit hard this year due to COVID-19. Now more than ever, it’s important to support local business. With the holiday season upon us, you can do just that while also marking friends and family off your gift list!

Walton Arts Center is a member of Dickson Street Merchants, an organization of businesses that celebrate Dickson Street as an epicenter for culture, cuisine, entertainment and the arts. We’re offering gift cards this holiday season (they’re good for five years!) and several other members of our partners in Dickson Street Merchants offer gift cards too. We’ve put together some gift ideas that will help you mark off your gift list while also supporting local.

Dinner and a Show

First up, give the gift of an arts night out! Pair a gift certificate from Walton Arts Center with a gift card to Bordinos Restaurant and Wine Bar, an upscale restaurant on Dickson Street. Your loved one can enjoy a meal before or after taking in a performance at Walton Arts Center—be it a smaller Procter & Gamble Ghost Light Programming show or a Broadway show when full-scale performances return.

A recent menu item from Bordinos (credit: Bordinos on Facebook)

With this idea, your gift will not only support local businesses but will have even more of an impact! Throughout the month of December, Bordinos will donate $10 to the Fayetteville Independent Restaurant Alliance (FIRA) for every $100 spent on gift cards. FIRA provides immediate financial relief to local hospitality professionals in need, and is also one of the beneficiaries of funds raised through The Stony Bird drink sales and Nog Off at Holidaze at Walton Arts Center.

Cheers to You

For the alcohol connoisseur in your life, pair a bottle of their favorite booze from Dickson Street Liquor with a Walton Arts Center gift certificate that can be redeemed for a Broadway cocktail class. One of our performance add-ons during full-scale programming is a series of cocktail classes where patrons learn to make craft cocktails created by local bartenders and inspired by Broadway shows! With this gift, you give a fun experience to look forward to and a bottle that will come in handy as they recreate those themed cocktails at home.

Live Music Legacy

We can’t forget live music lovers! Walton Arts Center gift certificates can also be redeemed for tickets at the Walmart AMP. Grab a gift certificate and a piece of merchandise from George’s Majestic Lounge, a iconic music venue right down the street from Walton Arts Center, for a gift that the supports live music in Northwest Arkansas. George’s also offers gift certificates that can be purchased on-site.

The Local List

Dickson Street Merchants member businesses that we confirmed as offering gift cards or gift certificates this holiday season include:

• Walton Arts Center

• C4 Nightclub & Lounge

• Wasabi

• Farrell’s

• Marley’s Pizza

• Bordino’s Restaurant & Wine Bar

• Puritan Coffee & Beer

• George’s Majestic Lounge

Other Members of Dickson Street Merchants:

• Collier Drug Store

• Infusion

• Brewski’s

• Theo’s

• Arsaga’s at the Depot

• Buster Belly’s Bar

• Dickson Street Liquor

No matter where you shop this holiday season, we hope you’ll consider supporting Dickson Street Merchants and other local businesses and give a gift that also gives back!

A preview of merchandise available from George’s Majestic Lounge (courtesy of George’s)

Diversity Through Programming at Walton Arts Center

Guest Blog by Scott Galbraith, vice president of programming and executive producer for Walton Arts Center

Diversity has long been a hallmark of Walton Arts Center’s programming (what we put on stage), and it’s one aspect of our work that always excites me. Our mission is all about bringing great performing artists from around the world to Northwest Arkansas, and that commits us to showcasing a wide array of people, cultures and art forms.

Our 10x10 Arts Series is known throughout the industry for the diversity it represents. Just last season, 10x10 included Nobuntu, a female a capella ensemble from Zimbabwe; Tiempo Libre, a three-time Grammy®-nominated Afro-Caribbean band; Socks in the Frying Pan, a rollicking Irish folk trio; and The Nature of Forgetting, a poignant dance-theatre performance from London.  Had the season not been interrupted by the pandemic, 10x10 would also have kicked off the first U.S. tour of Punya Dance Company, a classical ensemble from Bangalore. 

Nobuntu performing on a local TV show during their visit to Northwest Arkansas.

But 10x10 isn’t the only series to represent artists and cultures from around the globe. Our Colgate Classroom Series, which annually serves tens of thousands of NWA students, regularly features artists from Australia, Europe and Asia. The Starrlight Jazz series recently presented ASPADA, an ensemble that explored the synchronicity between American Jazz and classical Indian music. Martha Redbone, an American blues and soul singer whose ancestry is Cherokee-Choctaw-European-African American, appeared as part of our West Street Live series. Our last P&G Broadway Series included Once On This Island, an epic love story that’s complicated by colorism in the Caribbean. The Broadway Series (pre-COVID) was also scheduled to feature The Band’s Visit, which shows how the ancient divide between Egyptians and Israelis was bridged by a shared love of music.  And we were also preparing to present America’s acclaimed transgender modern dance choreographer, Sean Dorsey Dance Company. 

But diversity in the arts doesn’t end with race, gender or ethnicity.  Rather, it leads us to explore different artistic disciplines, styles and genres. Our palate includes dance, theatre, music, puppetry, film, contemporary circus, etc.  And just within music, there are both classical and contemporary forms, jazz, gospel, roots, zydeco, klezmer – the list goes on.

Mosaix Festival, originally scheduled for Spring 2020, highlighted the arts and culture of India in Northwest Arkansas.

All of which is to say, our work as programmers is never dull!  We’re constantly being exposed to artists and art forms that are unfamiliar. Our work isn’t easy, either, since we’re often making decisions outside our areas of expertise. Thankfully, we have a vast network of industry colleagues who freely share their insights, expertise and experiences. And, since we live in a community where more than 50 languages are spoken, we’re forever forging new relationships to help us understand and appreciate the cultural expressions that are meaningful to our neighbors.

Our new Mosaix Festival, which was delayed by COVID-19, was curated just that way. The focus of the first Mosaix was India, and we started two years ago listening to a group of advisors from the NWA Indian community to help inform what we would present. We are continuing to learn about the regions of South Asia from which our neighbors emigrated; the art forms, foods, and customs of those regions; and even the cultural connections they want to create for their first-generation American children.

At the end of the day, diversity at Walton Arts Center is both a goal and a way of life. Every person on this earth has roughly 99% of the same DNA and yet, too often, we allow divisions to grow based on skin color, culture or beliefs. For us, diversity is about showcasing, understanding and reveling in what makes people unique. Doing that together is what it is all about.