McKendree Presents: Arts Education Series
The Hett is pleased to present a wide variety of professional touring companies programmed
specifically for grades K-12. Our Arts Education Series offers daytime performances
for students, exposing them to the transformational power of the arts.
Attendance to any of our performances help students meet Illinois Arts Learning Standards
by responding and connecting to the arts.
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.
Educational Opportunities
Educational and study-guide materials are available. Visit theHett.com under Upcoming Events/Arts Education for more information.
Music of Lewis and Clark presented in partnership with The Sheldon Band
Thursday, October 13 @ 10 a.m. (Arts Education; Recommended for K-8)
Following the amazing adventures of Lewis and Clark, with a musical journey from St.
Louis, up the Missouri River, across the Rocky Mountains all the way to the Pacific
Ocean!
Arts Education Series Generously Supported By: Ameren Illinois
United States Air Force Band of Mid-America Concert Band
Friday, December 9 @ 10:00 a.m. (Arts Education event; Recommended for all ages)
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
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)
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
The Jazz Story presented in partnership with The Sheldon Band
Wednesday, February 8 @ 10:00 a.m. (Arts Education; Recommended for K-8)
Students will travel in time to experience the story of America’s unique creation,
jazz. With an emphasis on the transformations into the many faces of jazz, you’ll
hear unforgettable jazz hits including “It Don’t Mean a Thing If It Ain’t Got That
Swing” by Duke Ellington, “Maple Leaf Rag” by Scott Joplin, “Happy” by Pharrell Williams,
“Cantaloupe Island” by Herbie Hancock, and more. See jazz come to life and enjoy the
adventure of jazz and its great musicians!
Arts Education Series Generously Supported By: Ameren Illinois
Silent Sky by Lauren Gunderson presented by McK University’s Theater Department
Thursday, March 30 @ 10 a.m. (Arts Education; Recommended for All Ages)
The true story of 19th-century astronomer Henrietta Leavitt explores a woman’s place
in society during a time of immense scientific discoveries, when women’s ideas were
dismissed until men claimed credit for them. Produced by arrangement with Dramatists Play Services.
Arts Education Series Generously Supported By: Ameren Illinois
ADMISSION: $5
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.
