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.
COVID Update: Effective immediately, the wearing of masks and face coverings indoors at McKendree
University will be optional for everyone except in some specific settings. Face coverings may be required indoors, at the discretion of the artist, at certain
public events. Protocols for these particular occasions will be clearly articulated
in the event announcements.
United States Air Force Band of Mid-America Concert Band
Friday, December 9 @ 10:00 a.m. (Arts Education event; Recommended for all ages)
Friday, December 9 @ 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 10 @ 1:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 10 @ 7:00 p.m.
Holiday Concert
The United States Air Force Band of Mid-America Concert Band represents the professionalism
and excellence found every day throughout the Air Force. This diverse, 45-piece ensemble’s
repertoire ranges from symphonic band masterworks to traditional marches, modern compositions,
pop, and jazz. During a concert, you are likely to hear stirring works from contemporary
composers as well as the familiar sounds of John Philip Sousa or Major Glenn Miller.
Whether performing for a head of state, before a capacity crowd in their 10-state
touring area, or for our troops at home or abroad, the Concert Band reflects the heritage
and pride of our great nation and the United States Air Force.
Arts Education Series Generously Supported By: Ameren Illinois
ADMISSION IS FREE FOR FRIENDS & THE PUBLIC. TICKETS ARE REQUIRED.
It's Okay to be Different, Stories by Todd Parr
Monday, December 12 @ 10:00 a.m. (Arts Education event; Recommended for Pre-K to 3rd Grade)
Monday, December 12 @ 6:30 p.m.
Three contemporary stories by New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Todd Parr is adapted and staged by Mermaid Theatre
of Nova Scotia. For very young audiences, the hour-long production features three
books from his collection.
With his signature blend of playfulness and sensitivity, Todd Parr explores important
and timely subjects. “It’s Okay to Be Different” cleverly delivers the important messages
of acceptance, understanding and self-confidence. Equally whimsical and heartfelt,
“The Earth Book” is a sweet homage to our beautiful planet, inspiring readers of all
ages to do their part to keep the Earth happy and healthy. “This is My Hair” is a
funny exploration of how silly hair can be and that no matter how your hair looks,
always feel good about yourself.
Mermaid’s new show is directed and adapted by Jim Morrow, veteran director of numerous
internationally acclaimed Mermaid productions. It will feature a diverse cast and
an innovative approach to puppetry manipulation and construction combined with playful
original music for which the company has earned worldwide praise.
Generously Supported By: Robert and Grace Renner Welch Endowment
Arts Education Series Generously Supported By: Ameren Illinois
FRIENDS: ADULT/SENIOR/YOUTH $15.00 / $13.00 / $5.00
PUBLIC: ADULT/SENIOR/YOUTH $18.75 / $16.25 / $6.25
Arts Education Event Reduced Prices for Groups: Call the box office at (618) 537-6863 to purchase tickets, priced at $5 per child; 1 free chaperone/ adult for every 10 tickets purchased.
Christmas Presence, featuring Terry Barber
Wednesday, December 14 @ 7:00 p.m.
Holiday Concert
A classically-trained countertenor with an extremely broad range and versatile voice,
Terry Barber breathes new life into beloved Christmas songs and world-favorites. He
is equally at home in the concert hall, recording studio, theater, and opera house.
In what the LA Times calls “great performances of vitality and verve,” Terry Barber
has been a soloist for the best venues around the world, from the Metropolitan Opera
to Moscow’s Svetlanov Hall. He can be heard on recordings with artists from Madonna,
Jewel, Chaka Khan, and Cyndi Lauper, to the London Philharmonic.
Generously Supported By: Mr. Randy Wells
FRIENDS: ADULT/SENIOR/YOUTH $25.00/ $23.00 / $10.00
PUBLIC: ADULT/SENIOR/YOUTH $31.25 / $28.75 / $12.50
