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 488-seat auditorium is located on the McKendree University campus in Lebanon, Illinois, 25 miles from St. Louis.

 

 

 


 

Hett Cyber Monday sale on 12/2/2025 - discounted tickets and a gift certificate special

 

Ryan & RyanRyan and Ryan

Tuesday, December 2  //  7:30 p.m.

 

Join father-son piano duo, Ryan & Ryan, for a classical, calypso, and funky take on holiday music with their program “Merry & Bright: Songs of Christmas Cheer”. Donald and Barron will delight your audience with exciting two-piano renditions of traditional carol and modern songs. Attendees get to join in the music-making with a rousing sing-along, completing an experience that will leave them exhilarated and eager to more fully enjoy the spirit of the season.

FRIENDS: $36.00 Adult / $32.00 Senior / $18.00 Youth
PUBLIC: $45.00 Adult / $40.00 Senior / $22.50 Youth

Exclusively sponsored by George Obernagel '78.

Tickets on Sale August 11

 

 

 

USAF

United States Air Force Band of Mid-America

Sunday, December 7  //  4:00 p.m.

Monday, December 8  //  10:00 a.m. [ArtsEd]

Monday, December 8  //  7:00 p.m.

ALL PERFORMANCES ARE CURRENTLY SOLD OUT - CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE WAITLIST


A Hett holiday tradition! The talented musical ambassadors of Headquarters Air Mobility Command at Scott Air Force Base return for three joyful, uplifting performances. The 45 enlisted musicians and vocalists of the Band of Mid-America’s Concert Band represent the professionalism and excellence found throughout the U.S. Air Force. Their diverse repertoire includes symphonic masterworks, traditional marches, modern compositions, and jazz-inspired holiday music. Get your tickets early – these shows sell out fast!

Admission is free, tickets are required.

Important Information: Auditorium doors will open 45 minutes prior to showtime. Reserved tickets for this event expire at 15 minutes prior to showtime and ticket holders must arrive before then to be guaranteed their reserved seats. Once tickets expire, late-arriving ticket holders will be required to enter the standby line.

Note: At this time, the ongoing government shutdown has not impacted these performances. Should there be any changes, we will share updates by email, on our website, and through our social media channels.

Tickets on Sale August 11

 

 

 

The Nutcracker

The Hett and State Street Dance Company present:

The Nutcracker

Friday, December 12  //  10:00 a.m. [ArtsEd]

Friday, December 12  //  6:30 p.m.

Saturday, December 13  //  2 p.m.

Saturday, December 13  //  6:30 p.m.

ALL PERFORMANCES ARE CURRENTLY SOLD OUT - CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE WAITLIST


The ballet classic returns to the Hett this holiday season! This timely holiday classic features local dance talent and principals from leading professional companies. The Nutcracker, a two-act Russian ballet with a famous score by Pyotr Iliych Tchaikovsky, premiered in 1892 and has become a beloved Christmas season tradition. The enchanting story follows young Clara and her Nutcracker doll from a fancy family Christmas party to a fierce battle with the evil Mouse King. Their magical adventure continues through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets, featuring the Sugar Plum Fairy.

FRIENDS: $32.00 Adult / $28.00 Senior / $12.00 Youth
PUBLIC: $40.00 Adult / $35.00 Senior / $15.00 Youth

Tickets on Sale August 11

 

 

 

Fake News

Fake News: A Tribute to Huey Lewis

Saturday, January 24  //  7:30 p.m.


Come feel the power of Fake News, a St. Louis-based tribute to the incomparable Huey Lewis & The News! This powerhouse of a group emphasizes recreating the energy of the band’s live performances when accompanied by the Tower of Power horns. Get ready to be transported “Back In Time” as Fake News plays ALL of Huey’s greatest hits the way you remember them.

FRIENDS: $44.00 Adult / $40.00 Senior / $22.00 Youth
PUBLIC: $55.00 Adult / $50.00 Senior / $27.50 Youth

Tickets on Sale August 11

 

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The Hett and McKendree University  acknowledge support from the Illinois Arts Council Logo