Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Christmas takes stage at Walton Arts Center
Center spotlights theater, concerts and holiday events
Jill Suel may not yet know what she wants for Christmas, but she’s sure the programming planned for December at The Walton Arts Center is a gift the community will enjoy.
“The holidays are a time when everyone wants to be together with their friends and family,” Jill said. “Seeing a live performance allows you to have a special experience together. It might be a date night or you could be taking the whole family out. Everybody is looking for that special outing for the holidays and we love having people come here.”
Jill, marketing director for Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville, believes the Christmas season is a great opportunity for Walton Arts Center and the community.
“There are so many great performances you can do around the holiday,” she explained. “There are concerts, theatre and music. It all just brings people together. That’s what we love about it.”
For kids and kids at heart
Jill said that she and her colleagues are particularly fond of one upcoming holiday offering.
“We have a favorite show,” she said. “It’s ‘Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical.’ It’s been here before. Everyone loved it last time.” The musical stage version is an adaptation of the l964 Christmas television classic chronicling the adventures of a misfit reindeer and his friends.
“It feels like everyone knows that story and loves it,” Jill said. “The characters from the TV show are in the musical and it’s adorable and fun for everyone. Kids love it. Our kids love the abominable snow man and they love the Island of Misfit Toys. There are so many great characters, great iconic characters. Kids are in awe of the whole spectacle.” But, Jill pointed out, the show is great for kids of all ages. Even adults who are kids at heart. “You don’t have to have kids to come,” she said. “People come on dates. Adults come who just want to enjoy it with or without kids. Adults come because they loved the show when they were kids.”
Something for everyone
While Rudolf and his red nose will delight theatre goers, Walton Arts Center has something for everyone this holiday season. On Dec.10, they welcome “Danu’ A Christmas Gathering” to the stage.
“They are an Irish Celtic group who have been here before,” she said. “This time they are doing a Christmas program.
It’s full of very traditional songs and stories of their experiences and how they celebrate in their homes.”
One upcoming event Jill is excited to see is LeAnn Rimes. The long loved country star brings her “Today is Christmas” concert to the Walton Arts Center stage on Dec. 12.
“It will be beautiful,” she said. “She has a beautiful voice and she’s done four Christmas albums. There is lots of material. Every one will love it.”
Winding up the 2017 season, The Walton Arts Center returns to Broadway with “Finding Neverland.”
“It’s the story of J.M. Barrie, the author of Peter Pan,” Jill said. “It’s right as kids are starting their Christmas break. If you have family in town or are looking for something to do it’s a great option, and it’s an experience the family can enjoy together.”
Looking for a perfect gift for someone who loves the arts? How about theatre or concert tickets? Walton Arts Center has gift certificates and you may buy tickets in advance for upcoming events.