Entertainment

The world of entertainment and art comes alive with a plethora of exciting offerings. From the stage to the gallery, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Let's dive into the details of these remarkable events.

Uncover the Magic of Arts and Entertainment

Theater - "Dreamgirls": A Journey to Stardom

In "Dreamgirls" at Actors Theatre of Little Rock, an all-girl Motown singing group takes center stage. Set in the 1960s and 70s, this musical by Henry Krieger, Tom Eyen, and others unfolds at Quapaw Quarter United Methodist Church from Wednesday to Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 6 p.m. through December 21. Audiences have the choice between "general" and "immersive" seating, with performers and action throughout the church's basement. For some, there's even the chance to step into the spotlight and be part of the magic! A 20-minute pre-show mimics "Amateur Night at the Apollo," featuring local singers and performers in a talent competition where the audience decides the winner. The theater group rates the show PG-13. Tickets range from to , with discounts for students, senior citizens, and military. Visit actorstheatrelr.org/tickets to secure your seats.This production showcases the talent and passion of these performers as they rise from obscurity to superstardom. The music and lyrics transport the audience to a different era, making it a truly immersive experience.

El Dorado - "Carol": A Dickensian Tale

The South Arkansas Arts Center presents John Jakes' adaptation of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." It takes place at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, and at 2:30 p.m. on December 8. Jim Henderson plays Ebenezer Scrooge, with Hayden Nooner as Dickens, Mike Means as Jacob Marley, Mary Catherine White as the Ghost of Christmas Past, Brandon Johnson as the Ghost of Christmas Present, and Steven Vick as Bob Cratchit. Tickets are , for center members, and for students. Call (870) 862-5474 or visit saac-arts.org or buy.ticketstothecity.com/venue.php?org_id=610 to get your tickets and be part of this festive event.This adaptation brings the classic story to life, with talented actors bringing the characters to life. The sets and costumes add to the charm of the production, making it a must-see during the Christmas season.

Music - "A Very SoNA Christmas": A Holiday Spectacle

The Symphony of Northwest Arkansas and Music Director Paul Haas are gearing up for a Christmas celebration at Fayetteville's Walton Arts Center. On Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., the "A Very SoNA Christmas" concert features the SoNA Singers, Bentonville High School Chamber Choir, singer Barbara Padilla, guitarist TJ Scarlett, narrator Randy Wilburn, and student oboe soloist Annabeth Jones. The program includes a mix of holiday favorites such as Leroy Anderson's "Sleigh Ride," selections from Peter Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker," the "Hallelujah" Chorus from George Frideric Handel's "Messiah," "Christmas Overture" by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, the first movement of the Oboe Concerto by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, an arrangement of "O Holy Night," and a Christmas sing-along. Tickets are to , with discounts for students and free for children under 18 with the purchase of an adult ticket.This concert is a celebration of the holiday season, with talented musicians and singers coming together to create a magical atmosphere. The variety of music ensures that there's something for everyone to enjoy, making it a perfect family event.

Music - "The Snowman: A Family Concert": A Cinematic Experience

On December 8 at 2 p.m., the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas presents "The Snowman: A Family Concert," where the orchestra plays live to a screening of the animated film. Tickets are .This unique concert combines the magic of music with the charm of a beloved animated film. It's a great way for families to spend an afternoon together, enjoying the holiday spirit.

Art - UA Winter Art Market: A Showcase of Student Talent

The University of Arkansas School of Art hosts its Winter Art Market on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on December 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Studio and Design Center on Praxis Lane in Fayetteville. Admission is free. Here, you can find artwork available for purchase from art and design students and registered student organizations.This market is a great opportunity to support local student artists and discover unique pieces of art. It showcases the talent and creativity of the students and provides a platform for them to showcase their work.

Art - Pine Bluff's ARTx3 Campus: The Delta Upcycle Challenge

April 1 is the deadline to sign up for Pine Bluff's ARTx3 Campus' 2025 Delta Upcycle Challenge Project. This project challenges students in grades 3-12 to create artwork from recycled or reused materials. Each creation must consist of at least 75% recycled materials. Participants will display their creations in a public showcase on April 22 at the ARTx3 Campus on South Main Street, coinciding with Earth Day. Judges will evaluate the entries, and cash prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third places in three categories: grades 3-5 - "Creature Creations," grades 6-8 - "A Guiding Light," and grades 9-12 - "Bags of Imagination." Find details, rules, and a registration form at artx3.org/delta-upcycle-challenge. For more information, call (870) 395-7009 or email [email protected] project encourages creativity and sustainability among students, as they transform trash into art. It's a great way to raise awareness about environmental issues and showcase the talent of young artists.

At the Podium - "Citizen" Clinton: Insights from a Former President

As part of the 20th-anniversary celebration of the Clinton Presidential Center in Little Rock, former President Bill Clinton will participate in a discussion on his pending book, "Citizen: My Life After the White House," at 7 p.m. on Friday in the Wally Allen Ballroom at the Statehouse Convention Center. Jesse Tyler Ferguson will moderate. Tickets, priced at plus fees, include a copy of the book. Visit clintonpresidentialcenter.org/20 to get your tickets and be part of this important event."Citizen" is Clinton's front-row, first-person chronicle of his post-presidential years and the significant events of the 21st century. This discussion will provide insights into his life and the events that have shaped our world.

Legacies & Lunch - "In Silence or Indifference": A Look at History

Wayne A. Wiegand discusses his book "In Silence or Indifference: Racism and Jim Crow Segregated Public School Libraries" for the Central Arkansas Library System's Legacies & Lunch at noon on Wednesday at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Downtown. Wiegand will appear virtually, with an in-person panel discussion featuring Jay Barth, Guy Lancaster, and Rhonda Stewart. Admission is free. Visit events.cals.org/event/12206117 or facebook.com/share/ANTLeou7wN8dCqqj to learn more.This event delves into an important aspect of history, shedding light on the issues of racism and segregation in public school libraries. It's a chance to gain a deeper understanding of our past and its impact on the present.