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.
Distinguished Speaker: Rudy Ruettiger
Tuesday, September 30 // 7:00 p.m.
From underdog to legend, Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger’s story captured hearts worldwide. The inspiration behind the blockbuster film RUDY, he’s the first player ever carried off Notre Dame’s field on the shoulders of his teammates. Now an Emmy-winning speaker, Rudy shares his powerful message of perseverance and hope—“Never Quit. Yes, I Can.” Experience the real man behind the movie who continues to inspire audiences everywhere to dream big and defy the odds.
Lanter Lecture: Maxine Clark
Thursday, September 25 // 7:00 p.m.
Maxine Clark is the founder of Build-A-Bear Workshop®, a teddy-bear themed retail-entertainment experience. In 2004, Build-A-Bear became a public company traded on the NYSE. Today, there are nearly 500 Build-A-Bear Workshop stores worldwide and over 250 million stuffed animals have been sold worldwide. In 2025, Maxine was inaugurated into the International Toy Hall of Fame and named by Chain Store age magazine as one of the 20 Most Influential Pioneers in Retail.
Maxine stepped down from her CEB – Chief Executive Bear – position in 2013 to start her next act: to help unleash the potential of women and minority entrepreneurs and to use her entrepreneurial skills to create platforms and places that give access to more St. Louis families. Her latest venture is the Delmar DivINe™ - the transformation of the historic St. Luke’s Hospital in the St. Louis West End, into a multi-use real estate development opened in late 2021.
Maxine is an emeritus member of the Build-A-Bear Workshop Board of Directors and a recent past member of Footlocker, Inc. Board of Directors. She is also an emeritus member of the Washington University Board of Trustees and an emeritus member and former chair of Goldfarb School of Nursing. She now serves on the boards of Arch Grants, PBS national, and Nine PBS boards. In 2017, Maxine was named to the Missouri Public Affairs Hall of Fame, and in 2015 she was named Woman of the Year by the Greater Missouri Leadership Foundation.
This event is sponsored by the university’s annual Wayne E. Lanter series, which invites influential business leaders and entrepreneurs to share their insight and strategies for success. Admission is free and the public is welcome to attend the lecture in the Hett.
Eternamente: A Día de los Muertos Spectacular
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!
The Music of Lewis & Clark
Thursday, October 16 // 10:00 a.m.
Follow the amazing adventures of Lewis and Clark, with a musical journey from St. Louis, up to the Missouri River, across the Rocky Mountains, and all the way to the Pacific Ocean!
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.
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.
Generously sponsored by George Obernagel '78.
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.
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.
Tickets for Friends of the Hett will be available starting on Monday, October 27th at noon. Tickets for the general public will be available starting on Monday, November 3rd at noon.
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 - The Journey of Taylor Swift
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.
Metro Theatre Co. presents: Life Doesn't Frighten Me
Thursday, February 12 @ 10:00 a.m. [ArtsEd]
Inspired by Dr. Maya Angelou’s powerful poem Life Doesn’t Frighten Me, this original play by multi-disciplinary hip-hop artist Paige Hernandez brings to
life the everyday fears we all face—and the courage within us to rise above them.
Told through spoken word, hip-hop, and dance, the story celebrates every child’s unique
strength and reminds us all that we are indeed fearless royalty!
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 Brass Band with the St. Louis Brass Academy & Youth Brass
Sunday, May 3 // 3:00 p.m.
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!
