Over 13 years ago, the Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center was made a reality and became the first major center opened in Iowa. With cutting-edge theater technology, a large glass-walled lobby and three concert halls, the GBPAC has hosted over 300 performances a year, a number it will strive to live up to this year.
We always try to get a good mix, said Janelle Darst, marketing director of the center.
The list of upcoming events has three Broadway shows, along with other shows making stops near the Cedar Valley area. These other events focus on themes such as classical music, dance, family, holidays and headliners.
It is like a huge puzzle. We start taking some pieces away, keeping other pieces there, but then new pieces get added in, said Darst.
UNI students have one free ticket per semester, and they can use this for any show. Costs for other shows will vary depending on age level.
Several performances the center will host this semester are Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Memphis the Musical, The Nutcracker and the UNI Varsity Mens Glee Club Christmas Variety Show.
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy will center on swing music and dance, allowing the audience to get up and move with the groove all night long. The dancing will take place in front of the stage, directly in front of the band, Oct. 11 at 7:30 p.m.
Memphis the Musical is a Tony Award-winning Broadway show focusing on the lives of two individuals in a story full of dancing, musical numbers, fame and love and entertainment for all. Performances are Oct. 22-23, both starting at 7:30 p.m.
The Nutcracker will kick off this years holiday season. Dancers from The Minnesota Ballet and the Cedar Valley area will help bring this classic show to life on Nov. 22 at 7:30 p.m., and on Nov. 23-24 at 2 p.m.
The UNI Varsity Mens Glee Club will focus on holiday favorites, along with some winter songs, for its Christmas performance. Shows are Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 7 at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Im looking forward to the Big Bad Voodoo Daddy show, said Bobbie Walker, freshman physical education major.
Rachelle Lipp, sophomore English education major, and Amelia Smith, freshman family services major, said they are looking forward to shows such as Rain A Tribute to the Beatles, Moulin Rouge The Ballet and Bring It On: The Musical, all of which will take place next semester.
Darst said they are already creating next years list of shows, and the staff keeps the audience in mind when selecting them.
