Performing Arts Series & Sponsors
The ASU-Beebe Performing Arts Series offers a lineup of cultural and artistic events throughout the year, bringing together talent from across the region and beyond. This series features an exciting array of performances, including symphonic band concerts, choral showcases, theatre productions, and engaging lectures. Each event is designed to enrich the community, foster creativity, and provide entertainment for audiences of all ages. With affordable ticket prices and special discounts for educators, military personnel, seniors, and students, the Performing Arts Series is accessible to everyone. Join us at ASU-Beebe to experience the arts in a vibrant and welcoming environment, and enjoy free parking and exclusive benefits for ASU-Beebe students, employees, and emeritus members. Explore our upcoming events and become a part of our thriving cultural community!
Concert & Lecture Series
Wyly Bigger, Presented by ArkansasRadio.com
Robert Townsend, Presented by First Community Bank
Thursday, October 1, 2026 // 6 p.m. // Owen Center Theater
Tomรกseen Foleyโs A Celtic Christmas, Presented by Edward Jones & Debbie Elgen
Thursday, December 9, 2026 // 7 p.m. // Owen Center Theater
Dave Digs Disney & Princess Party, Presented by First Electric Cooperative/Connect 2 First
Thursday, January 28, 2027 // Owen Center Theater // Princess Party: 5 p.m. & Concert: 7 p.m.
Lecture from Dr. John A. Kirk
Monday, February 15, 2027 // 7 p.m. // Owen Center Theater
An Evening with Coach Ken Carter, Presented by Stallion Transportation Group
Thursday, April 22, 2027 // Owen Center Theater // Movie Screening: 4 p.m. & Lecture: 7 p.m.
- Arkansas native Wyly Bigger is a blues and rock โnโ roll pianist whose music is deeply rooted in the sounds of the Mississippi Delta and Memphis. His energetic performances and debut album, โBroken Telephone,โ blend classic rock โnโ roll piano with modern songwriting, earning recognition in Memphis and audiences across North America and Europe.
- FREE OUTDOOR CONCERT FOR BACK TO BEEBE BASH 2026 // FREE Food & drinks will be provided by Great Western Dining from 5-6 p.m., bring a lawn chair for the concert at 7 p.m.
Thursday, October 1, 2026 // 6 p.m. // Owen Center Theater
- Join us for a special community screening of My Indiana Muse, an award-winning documentary that follows artist Robert Townsend as he uncovers the story of a mysterious woman discovered in a collection of vintage Kodachrome slides. Through his vibrant paintings, Townsend transforms forgotten photographs into a moving celebration of memory, creativity, human connection, and a life lived boldly. Following the film, Townsend will take the stage for a special lecture exploring the inspiration behind his work, his artistic process, and the remarkable story that brought My Indiana Muse to life. Gather with friends, neighbors, and fellow art and film enthusiasts for an inspiring evening that reveals how one personโs spirit can leave a lasting impression.
Thursday, December 9, 2026 // 7 p.m. // Owen Center Theater
- โA Celtic Christmasโ transports audiences to a traditional Christmas gathering in rural western Ireland during the 1940s, before modern conveniences changed the rhythms of everyday life. Now in its 28th season, the production brings Irelandโs rich cultural heritage to life through authentic Celtic music, traditional dancing, lively storytelling, and warm humor. Featuring accomplished performers from both sides of the Atlantic, the show recreates the joy of neighbors gathering in local farmhouses with fiddles, flutes, whistles, pipes, and drums. โA Celtic Christmasโ is a heartfelt celebration of family, friendship, tradition, and the enduring spirit of community during the holiday season.
Thursday, January 28, 2027 // Owen Center Theater // Princess Party: 5 p.m. & Concert: 7 p.m.
- Step into a world where jazz meets a little bit of magic! In 2027, the Brubeck Brothers Quartet celebrates 70 years of Dave Brubeckโs beloved 1957 album, Dave Digs Disney, with a special performance featuring classic favorites and fresh arrangements inspired by more recent Disney films. Making the evening even more enchanting with a special Princess Party featuring some of your favorite princesses. Come and enjoy magical encounters, memorable moments, and plenty of fun as music and imagination come together for an unforgettable experience the whole family can enjoy. (Separate fee for Princess Party of $25)
Monday, February 15, 2027 // 7 p.m. // Owen Center Theater
- Dr. John A. Kirk is the George W. Donaghey Distinguished Professor of History at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and a leading scholar of the civil rights movement. Born and educated in the United Kingdom, he taught at the University of Wales and the University of London before joining UA Little Rock in 2010. Kirk has published 10 books and numerous articles, essays, and other works, while also holding prestigious fellowships and research appointments in Europe and the United States. His scholarship and leadership have made significant contributions to the study and understanding of civil rights history.
Thursday, April 22, 2027 // Owen Center Theater // Movie Screening: 4 p.m. & Lecture: 7 p.m.
- Experience the inspiring story of Coach Ken Carterโfirst through the hit film Coach Carter, then live from the man who lived it. After the movie screening, hear Coach Carter share the real story behind the film and his powerful message about education, accountability, integrity, teamwork, and leadership. Discover what it truly takes to succeedโon the court, in the classroom, and in life.
Community Events
October 14 & 19, 2026, 2 โ 4 p.m. // England Center
- Join ASU-Beebe for a FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, hands-on pottery experience open to the entire community. Guests can enjoy creating alongside friends in the England Center Pottery Studio while helping support an important cause. All pottery created will be sold at our 2026 Community Tree Lighting in December!
December 1, 2026 // Pottery Sale: 3 p.m. // Entertainment: 5 p.m. // The Grove, Beebe Campus
- Celebrate the holiday season at the Tree Lighting in The Grove. This FREE, COMMUNITY-WIDE EVENT features live performances by the ASU-Beebe Symphonic Band and Chamber Singers, Studio 360 dancers, a pottery sale, hayrides, hot cocoa, cookies, and a special visit from Santa. The festivities conclude with the lighting of the campus Christmas tree!
Vanguard Renaissance Faire
April 3, 2027, 10 a.m. โ 3 p.m. // The Grove
- This FREE, COMMUNITY-WIDE EVENT is hosted by the ASU-Beebe Student Government Association. Enjoy live performances, games, vendors, archery and more! Join the ribbon cutting at 10 a.m., complete a quest and be knighted by Van the Vanguard. Come dressed, come curious!
Theatre
Fall Performance โ The Battle of Boat
November 5 โ 8, 2026 // Owen Center Theater
- The Battle of Boat is a courageous tale of a group of children finding their place in a world at war in 1916. Frustrated by their inability to join the soldiers in battle, the children decide to do whatever it takes to help in the war effort. Heartwarming, funny, emotional and exciting, this original new musical with a sweeping, epic score celebrates the steadfast British spirit that shone through during World War I.
Spring Performance โ TBA in Fall 2026
March 11 โ 14, 2027 // Owen Center Theater
- Stay tuned for the announcement of the Spring 2027 performance of our ASU-Beebe Theatre Department! Announcement coming later in Fall 2026!
ASU-Beebe Theatre Presents, Improv Night
December 2, 2026, 7 p.m. // Owen Center Theater
ASU-Beebe Theatre Presents, Theatre Blackbox Night
April 29, 2027, 7 p.m. // Owen Center Theater
Music Showcase
Join us for an unforgettable celebration of music, student talent, and the arts as ASU-Beebe presents Music Showcase Night. Each showcase will highlight the creativity, dedication, and hard work of ASU-Beebe students through a diverse lineup of performances, including singers and chamber ensembles, the Symphonic Band, improv and black box theatre groups, student soloists, and more. Audiences will experience a lively evening filled with music, theatre, collaboration, and original expression as students take the stage to share their talents with the community. Music Showcase Night offers an exciting opportunity to support student performers, celebrate the arts, and experience the remarkable talent found throughout ASU-Beebeโs Performing Arts programs.
Night One โ Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026, 7 p.m.
Night Two โ Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2026, 6:30 p.m.
Night Three โ Thursday, March 18, 2027, 7 p.m.
Night Four โ Thursday, April 29, 2027, 6:30 p.m.
All events in Owen Center Theater
Abington Library Series
September 21 โ 25: True Crime Week
True Crime Week is coming to Abington Library, September 21โ25 Throughout the week, guest speakers will explore Arkansas crimes, criminology, law enforcement, and historical cases. Presenters include Dr. Amber Bramlet, author Deana Nall, retired Little Rock sex crimes officer J.D. Eckert, and Lisa Tinley-Ponson, host of the Unexplained America podcast. The library will also feature a special display of books highlighting true crime cases from across Arkansas. Stop by, attend a presentation, and discover more about the cases and stories that have shaped our state.
October 26 โ 31: Fireside Folklore, Tales After Dark
Spend the week exploring the ghost stories, legends, superstitions, and traditions that have been passed down for generations. The event will feature presentations by folklorist Dr. Gregory Hansen and Dr. Amber Bramlett, along with regional authors who celebrate the rich storytelling traditions of Arkansas and the South. Throughout the week, students and community members can also participate in creative contests, special programs, and activities that celebrate the stories that continue to shape our culture. Whether youโre interested in haunted history, local legends, or the art of storytelling, thereโs a place for you around the campfire.
March 1 โ 5: Tails and Tales, Animal Adventures Week
Tails & Tales: Animal Adventures Week, celebrating the animals, stories, and imagination that inspire readers of all ages. This family-friendly event will feature presentations by regional authors, engaging read-aloud sessions for children, and a petting zoo as well as the workshop Wild Writers: Create Your Own Childrenโs Book, a creative opportunity for aspiring storytellers to write and illustrate their own original tales. All events are free and open to the public.
England Center Art Gallery Exhibits
September Exhibit: Soyoon Ahn (Reception: September 10, 2026, 11:30 โ 1:30 p.m.)
October Exhibit: Dolores Justus (Reception: October 5, 2026, 11:30 โ 1:30 p.m.)
November Exhibit: ASU-Beebe Fall Student Showcase (Reception: November 18, 2026, 11:30 โ 1:30 p.m.)
February Exhibit: ASU-Beebe Faculty & Staff Showcase (Reception: February 10, 2027, 12 โ 2 p.m.)
March Exhibit: ASU-Beebe Alumni Showcase (Reception: March 9, 2027, 5 โ 7 p.m.)
April Exhibit: ASU-Beebe Spring Student Showcase (Reception: April 7, 2027, 11:30 โ 1:30 p.m.)
- Soyoon Ahn is a potter, painter, and art educator. She grew up in Seoul, Korea, and currently resides in Russellville, Arkansas. She has won many awards for her ceramics and Korean folk paintings. She is a former Artist in Residence and pottery instructor at the River Valley Arts Center. She is teaching art classes at Arkansas Tech University. Soyoon has produced functional wares for over 10 years. She launched her brand Soyoon Ahn Pottery in 2021. She is a gallery artisan in the Arkansas Craft Gallery in Mt. View and Central Arkansas Library System at Library Square in Little Rock.
- Dolores Justus Reuther is a Hot Springs-based painter, art director, and designer whose work is inspired by the natural world. Drawing from her early years in Oregon and her life in the South, she creates expressive landscapes that explore patterns of light, form, optics, and abstraction. Her paintings have appeared in solo and group exhibitions throughout the United States and abroad for more than 20 years and are held in numerous public, corporate, and private collections. Justus is represented by galleries in Arkansas and Louisiana and operates Justus Fine Art Gallery and Justus Design & Marketing.
- The exhibition will highlight the creativity, technical skill, and artistic growth of ASU-Beebe students through a diverse collection of works produced during fall classes. Featuring a variety of styles, techniques, and creative perspectives, the exhibition offers students an opportunity to share their accomplishments while giving visitors a closer look at the talent, dedication, and imagination developing within ASU-Beebeโs art programs.
- The exhibition will showcase the diverse talents, creative approaches, and artistic perspectives of ASU-Beebe faculty and staff members through a collection of original works spanning a variety of mediums and styles. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the personal artistic practices of faculty and staff members while experiencing the creativity, technical skill, and professional experience they bring to the classroom and the broader arts community.
- As ASU-Beebe celebrates its 100th anniversary, the exhibition will proudly showcase the accomplishments, creativity, and continued artistic growth of ASU-Beebe alumni through works created since their time at the college. Featuring a variety of mediums, styles, and individual perspectives, the exhibition offers an exciting opportunity to honor the collegeโs century-long legacy while highlighting how former students have continued developing their artistic voices and building upon the skills and experiences gained at ASU-Beebe.
- The exhibition will highlight the creativity, technical skill, and artistic growth of ASU-Beebe students through a diverse collection of works produced during fall classes. Featuring a variety of styles, techniques, and creative perspectives, the exhibition offers students an opportunity to share their accomplishments while giving visitors a closer look at the talent, dedication, and imagination developing within ASU-Beebeโs art programs.
