Current Events
2025-2026 Season
Neil Berg: 100 Years of Hollywood
Saturday, September 6 @ 7:30 p.m.
Back by popular demand – an all-new show! Following the fantastic response to last
season’s 100 Years of Broadway, creator Neil Berg now brings Tinseltown to the Hett
for a memorable evening that audiences of all ages will enjoy. A cast of five of Broadway’s
finest talents will perform favorite songs from classic films and movie musicals including
Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Casablanca, The Wizard of Oz, New York, New York, Goldfinger,
Titanic, Rocky Horror Picture Show, Moulin Rouge, Dreamgirls, and many more.
It's an evening of classic songs from the movies sung by five of the finest singers on Broadway, including stars of such hit Broadway musicals like Phantom of the Opera, Evita, Fiddler on the Roof, Les Misérables, and Wonderful Town. You won’t want to miss it!
Generously sponsored by Sal Macaluso and Frank & Judy Wojcik '70.
The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass
Saturday, September 20 @ 7:30 p.m.
The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass is America’s premier large brass ensemble. A group that always reflects the diverse makeup of men and women in the American culture, RMPBB is dedicated to the notion that music is a gift to be enjoyed by everyone.
This group is a family-owned and operated business that had its beginnings on the streets of New Orleans. On the advice of family patriarch Ellis Marsalis, the group created a concert format that breaks the usual barriers between genres and strives to create a connection between the audience and performers.
Eternamente
Saturday, October 11 @ 7:30 p.m.
Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar and Ballet Folklorico del Rio Grande bring you the blockbuster show “Eternamente: A Día de los Muertos Spectacular.” We invite the audience to join us in a celebration of life with lively music and dance, beautiful costumes, and a virtual altar to those we have lost. This show, an homage to Mexico’s rich cultural heritage, blends graceful traditional dance with vibrant storytelling that also tips a hat to the great Mexican singers of yesteryear such as Vicente Fernandez, Pedro Infante, Lucha Villa, and more.
“Eternamente” transcends mere spectacle it’s a portal into the heart of us all, where every twirl and note will become a tribute to the beauty of remembrance. Join this unforgettable fiesta, where tradition and spectacle converge, and the spirit of Día de los Muertos is celebrate “Eternamente.” Who knows – La Muerte herself may make an appearance!
Brass Transit
Saturday, October 25 // 7:30 p.m.
Brass Transit was formed in 2008 and brought together eight of the most talented and accomplished award-winning musicians. Their sole purpose was to pay tribute to one of the world’s greatest ad most successful pop/rock groups of all time – Chicago.
Since then, the group has toured North America dazzling audiences with their flawless performances and spectacular attention to every detail of the Chicago songbook. Hits like “Saturday in the Park,” “25 or 6 to 4,” “If You Leave Me Now,” and “You’re the Inspiration” have left crowds in awe and on their feet more than once during a show. Brass Transit goes far beyond just imitating the songs – they embody the music. Brass Transit will bring you back to the most memorable times of your life.
Generously sponsored by Lynn Cornell, Gerald Cornell '74, and Sharon Cornell.
Jenny Tolman
Saturday, November 22 @ 7:30 p.m.
Sweet yet sassy, vintage yet fresh, an old soul with a new vision and some incredible
comedic timing, country music songstress Jenny Tolman is the breath of fresh air that
the genre needs now. Having woven the incredible storyline of her life into her music
thus far, Tolman has found a way to create albums that tie up all that life has handed
her – both the good, the bad, and the downright tragic – and makes it sound beautiful.
On her new album Married in a Honky Tonk, Tolman brings a kaleidoscope of stories
and emotions to the country music table with the swagger of a certified superstar.
Ryan & Ryan
Tuesday, December 2 // 7:30 p.m.
Ryan & Ryan is a dynamic father-son piano duo that blends classic and contemporary music into an enthralling concert experience. From Rachmaninoff to Gershwin to Billy Joel, Donald and Barron Ryan combine their talents to create a dazzling blend of old and new. Well versed in classical, jazz, Ragtime, and funk, audiences everywhere have been thrilled by their rendition of Rachmaninoff’s “Second Suite for Two Pianos,” and George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” continues to garner enthusiastic standing ovations everywhere. Ryan & Ryan is a proven hit with audiences of all generations.
Generously sponsored by George Obernagel '78.
United States Air Force Band of Mid-America
Saturday, December 6 // 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 7 // 1:00 p.m.
Monday, December 8 // 10:00 a.m. [ArtsEd]
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.
The Hett Presents: The Nutcracker Dance
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.
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.
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.
Taylor Made Presents: Long Live
Saturday, January 31 // 7:30 p.m.
Following an unforgettable 2024, Taylor Made – the Taylor Swift tribute that took
audiences by storm – is back with an all-new experience for 2025! This theatrically-inspired,
high-energy celebration brings Taylor’s incredible career to life through the very
songs that made her a global icon. This immersive show takes fans on a musical journey
through every album, reliving the real-life moments that inspired her iconic songs,
from her country roots to pop superstardom and beyond.
Whether you’ve been a Swiftie since day one or just discovered her magic, this is your chance to sing, dance, and scream along to all of your favorite Taylor Swift hits, performed live by the tribute band that does it best.
Christine Brewer's Musical Journey
Saturday, February 22 // 3:00 p.m.
Featuring acclaimed pianist Alla Voskoboynikova
Christine Brewer’s appearances in opera, concert, and recital are marked by her own unique timbre, at once warm and brilliant combined with a vibrant personality and emotional honesty reminiscent of the great sopranos of the past. Named one of the top 20 sopranos of all time by BBC Music, her range, golden tone, boundless power, and control make her a favorite of the stage and highly sought-after recording artist. Her discography includes over 25 recordings. She is also a visiting professor at Webster University and is among 140 other notable celebrities receiving a bronze star on the St. Louis Walk of Fame.
Alla is a music professor and piano teacher at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. She performs extensively as a soloist and collaborator, regularly accompanying members of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and coaching for the Union Avenue Opera Company, as well as the Opera Theatre of St. Louis. Before moving to the United States in 1996, Alla was a pianist and vocal coach at the Kiev Opera and Ballet Theater in Ukraine.
Generously sponsored by Kay Gauble '66
Aquila Theatre: Hound of the Baskervilles
Saturday, February 28 @ 7:30 p.m.
Step out with us onto the fog-shrouded moors of England with this spine-tingling mystery that can only be solved by the legendary Sherlock Holmes and trusted companion, Dr. Watson. They must investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville, rumored to be the victim of a supernatural and savage hound. As they uncover chilling secrets and dark family histories, Holmes must use razor-sharp intellect to solve a case where logic and superstition collide.
Don’t miss this unforgettable theatrical experience – where mystery, suspense, and Aquila’s trademark excellence are sure to leave you on the edge of your seat.
Jukebox Saturday Night
Friday, April 10 // 7:30 p.m.
Jukebox Saturday Night captures the exciting sounds of great melodies and lyrics performed
by an energetic group of instrumentalists and vocalists who will keep you moving in
your seats, tapping your toes, and clapping your hands. You’ll hear songs from America’s
Swing Era including hits by Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, Count Basie,
Frank Sinatra, Doris Day, and much more! Join Jukebox Saturday Night as they recreate
memories for anyone who’s ever experienced the fine arrangements of big band music
– and creating new, exciting memories for anyone who’s enjoying it for the first time!
Generously sponsored by Dave Philip '70 and Mary Philip '66.
Gone 2 Paradise: A Jimmy Buffet Experience
Saturday, April 25 // 7:30 p.m.
Seen on NBC and WGN TV, Gone 2 Paradise is the ultimate Jimmy Buffett Experience, captivating audiences across the United States and internationally. Led by award-winning singers, their high-energy performances and unwavering dedication to capturing the essence of Buffett’s music have made them the go-to band for Parrotheads everywhere!
From coast to coast and even the sun-soaked beaches of the Virgin Islands and Hawaii, Gone 2 Paradise delivers authentic renditions of Buffett’s greatest hits. Their ability to recreate the vibrant atmosphere of a live Jimmy Buffett concert is enhanced by their tropical-themed stage décor, transforming each venue into a beachy oasis with island vibes. Each band member brings unique talent and passion to the stage, ensuring a dynamic and unforgettable musical journey.
Whether you’re a long-time Parrothead or simply seeking a tropical escape, Gone 2 Paradise promises an evening of pure bliss and memories that will transport you straight to paradise!
Generously sponsored by Mark & Pam Waltermire.
The St. Louis Academy Brass Band
Sunday, March 3
Join the St. Louis Brass Band, St. Louis Academy Brass Band, and St. Louis Youth Brass for an afternoon of terrific music! The STLBB, under the direction of Dr. John Bell, placed second in their section at the 2024 North American Brass Band Association Championships.
The Academy Band, composed of high school students, is conducted by McKendree alum Bradley Eston ’24. You won’t want to miss this afternoon of music featuring everything from standard brass band repertoire to lighter toe-tapping tunes and beautiful ballads!
