Midwest Theater's Captivating 2024-25 Performing Arts Season Unveiled

The Midwest Theater is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated 2024-25 Performing Arts Season, promising a diverse array of captivating live entertainment that will delight audiences of all ages. With a focus on cultivating enjoyment and enriching the cultural landscape of the region, this season's lineup promises to be a true celebration of the performing arts.

Unlock the Magic of Live Performances in the Midwest

Buckets N Boards: A Rhythmic Extravaganza

Prepare to be mesmerized by the high-energy, hilarious, and incredibly talented duo of Matthew Levingston and Gareth Sever, who have crafted a one-of-a-kind comedy experience that blends amazing percussion, ridiculous songs, spectacular tap dancing, and an incredible variety of musical talents. This family-friendly show is a must-see, as the two performers effortlessly engage the audience with their nonstop, side-splitting interactions.Immerse yourself in the infectious energy of Buckets N Boards as they showcase their shared passion for music, comedy, and rhythm. Prepare to be captivated by their hand-crafted, fresh, and unique clean comedy performance that will leave you thoroughly entertained.

The Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience: A Soulful Jazz-Pop Fusion

Hailing from the small town of Saint Joseph, Iowa, Shaun Johnson's musical journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From his early days performing at state fair talent shows with his sister to his current success as an Emmy-winning singer/songwriter, Shaun has always been destined for a life in music.Joining forces with some of the Midwest's finest instrumentalists, Shaun has created the Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience, a contemporary Jazz-Pop ensemble that pays homage to the timeless sounds of Frank Sinatra and Michael Bublé, while infusing the music with his own unique twist. Expect to be swept away by the group's seamless blend of classic and modern influences, as they perform a repertoire ranging from the "Spiderman Theme" to their own captivating original works.

Riders in the Sky: Honoring the Tradition of Western Music

For over four decades, the American Western music and comedy group Riders in the Sky have been delighting audiences with their unique brand of entertainment. Dressed in the iconic attire of singing cowboys from the Saturday morning serials of the 1930s and 1940s, this talented quartet transports their audience back in time, honoring the legacy of legendary performers like Roy Rogers and Gene Autry.While their respect for the Western music genre has earned them the admiration of aficionados, Riders in the Sky's keen sense of humor has also helped them connect with a wider audience, especially children. Their ability to seamlessly blend musical talent and sketch comedy has earned them numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Musical Album for Children in 2000 for their work on the Toy Story 2 soundtrack.

Jonny Lyons and the Pride: A Retro-Inspired Musical Journey

Prepare to be taken on a captivating journey through the golden era of music and showmanship with Jonny Lyons and the Pride. Blending influences from Rock and Roll, Country, Blues, Soul, Surf, and Rockabilly, this dynamic ensemble celebrates a musical style that will transport you back in time.Jonny Lyons, the driving force behind the group, pours his heart and soul into his original compositions, drawing inspiration from the energetic atmosphere of 1950s and 1960s sock hops and the soulful sounds of 1960s and 1970s R&B and Motown. With show-stopping vocals, tight harmonies, a ripping sax, and swinging grooves, Jonny Lyons and the Pride deliver a performance that leaves nothing to be desired.

Rastrelli Cello Quartet: Redefining the Cello's Potential

The four gentlemen of the Rastrelli Cello Quartet have been captivating audiences since 2002 with their unique and innovative approach to the cello. Committed to tradition yet completely uncoupled from the conventional, the ensemble has built a repertoire that is truly one-of-a-kind, exploring the full breadth of the cello's sonic capabilities.Treating their audience to a diverse program that includes arrangements of chamber music works, orchestral classics, cello literature standards, as well as forays into popular music, jazz, klezmer, and tango, the Rastrelli Cello Quartet showcases their unwavering dedication to their craft. Prepare to be mesmerized by the quartet's seamless blend and their ability to push the boundaries of what is possible with the cello.

Accent – Acapella: Harmonious Perfection

In the ever-evolving world of a cappella singing, the six-member ensemble Accent has carved out a unique niche for themselves. Inspired by the intricate jazz harmonies of TAKE 6 and the legendary Hi-Lo's, Accent has taken their love of close-harmony singing to new heights, captivating audiences across Europe, North America, and Asia.Since 2011, Accent has released five albums, performed at prestigious venues like the London A Cappella Festival, and even graced the stage of London's iconic Royal Albert Hall. Their singular blend and innovative arrangements have earned them acclaim from both acappella devotees and fellow musicians, including the likes of Cedric Dent of TAKE 6 and Clark Burroughs of The Hi-Lo's.Prepare to be swept away by the seamless harmonies and the group's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of a cappella performance. Accent's captivating shows are a true testament to the power of the human voice.