Russel E. and Fern M. Hettenhausen Center for the Arts
"The Hett" is Southern Illinois' premier performing arts venue, presenting world class dance, drama, classical music and jazz. The 479-seat auditorium is located on the McKendree University campus in Lebanon, Illinois, 25 miles from St. Louis.
Explore 20 Years of Performances at The Hett
From unforgettable concerts and captivating theatre productions to inspiring speakers and family favorites, The Hett has welcomed countless artists and audiences since opening in 2006. Take a trip down memory lane and explore the performances that have shaped our history.
Tickets for the USAF Band of Mid-America Holiday Showcases are nearly gone!
Use the links below to check ticket availability or join the waitlist. If you weren't able to secure tickets, visit our FAQ page to explore other ways you may still be able to attend.
The Hett’s 20th Anniversary Celebration:
Mississippi Moon
The Music of Michael McDonald & The Doobie Brothers
Saturday, November 14 // 7:00 p.m.
Mississippi Moon is keeping the spirit of classic rock alive as St. Louis’s only dedicated tribute to the legendary sounds of The Doobie Brothers and Michael McDonald. Delivering spot-on musicianship, soaring harmonies, and the unmistakable grooves fans know and love, the eight-piece band has quickly earned a reputation for unforgettable live performances throughout the region.
Made up of some of the most experienced and hard-working musicians in the St. Louis music scene, Mississippi Moon recreates the energy and authenticity of an era that defined American rock and soul. From the driving rhythms of “China Grove” and “Long Train Runnin’” to the smooth, soulful hits of Michael McDonald like “What a Fool Believes” and “Minute by Minute,” the band delivers a crowd-pleasing set packed with classics.
All Friends of the Hett are eligible to reserve up to two complimentary tickets to this event, available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Advance reservations are required.
This special event is exclusively available to Friends of the Hett. To attend, become a Friend today.
Generously sponsored by President Dan Dobbins '81 & Mrs. Mickey Dobbins '81
Will Holiday's
Grand Ol' Christmas Show
Retro Christmas Radio Show
Tuesday, December 8 // 7:30 p.m.
Will Holiday’s Grand Ol’ Christmas Show is a retro radio show bringing your all-time favorite Christmas classics and sketch comedy antics broadcasting live on Christmas Eve from 1225 AM N-O-E-L Radio studios.
An original by The Grand Ol’ Production Company featuring Americana standout Blue Water Highway and a cast of the best artists and entertainers in Texas. Made for music and comedy lovers, from boomers to millennials, this tribute to American Christmas traditions cleverly and progressively blurs the lines between heartfelt nostalgia and contemporary pop-culture satire, an inspiring Holiday tradition that gets better every year.
FRIENDS: $48.00 Adult / $44.00 Senior / $24.00 Youth
PUBLIC: $60.00 Adult / $55.00 Senior / $30.00 Youth
Generously sponsored by Mr. George Obernagel '78 and Mr. Adam Sampson & Dr. Jean Sampson '83
USAF Spirit of the Season Concerts
A Hett Holiday Tradition!
Friday, December 11 // 10:00 a.m. ArtsEd - SOLD OUT
Friday, December 11 // 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 12 // 2:00 pm & 7:00 p.m.
An array of ensembles brings the season to life with an unforgettable evening of holiday favorites.
A family-friendly celebration of the season featuring the Band of Mid-America’s Brass Quintet, Woodwind Quintet, Saxophone Quartet, and Jazz Ensemble. The Jazz Ensemble headlines the program with a lively set of seasonal favorites, while the smaller ensembles bring their own distinctive sounds to holiday classics including music from A Charlie Brown Christmas, The Nutcracker, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and more. The evening features a variety of styles for all listeners, a traditional audience sing-along, and a special appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Get your tickets early – these shows sell out fast!
Tickets are FREE, advanced reservations are required.
Tickets are limited to 4 tickets per order online. For larger groups, please contact the Hett Box Office.













