Exciting Concerts, Films, Holiday Shows, More Coming to the Hett This November and December

(LEBANON, Ill., November 5, 2021) – Several entertaining and memorable events are coming soon to McKendree University’s Hettenhausen Center for the Arts. For tickets or more information on all shows, please visit theHett.com or call the box office at (618) 537-6863. Tickets are selling quickly and are expected to sell out.

Nov. 10, 7:30 p.m.: Lance Geiger, The History Guy, creates stories of forgotten history with topics ranging from aviation history to forgotten battles, historical figures and more. His award-winning YouTube channel has garnered more than 36 million views and 965,000 subscribers. General admission is $15. McKendree University students, faculty and staff can attend for free. Reservations are recommended.

Nov. 13, 7:30 p.m.: Old Salt Union is a progressive “newgrass” Americana string band that brings a fresh approach to bluegrass in a high-energy show. Through relentless touring, the band from Belleville, Ill., has honed and developed its sound and cultivated a steadfast fan base drawn to its electric live performance vibe, which seems to pull more from vaudeville than the front porch. Admission is $25 for adults, $23 for seniors and $10 for students and children. McKendree University students can attend for free.

Nov. 18, 6 p.m.: “My Octopus Teacher” (2020) A filmmaker forges an unusual friendship with an octopus living in a South African kelp forest, learning as the animal shares the mysteries of her world. Rated G. 1 hour, 30 minutes. Screen Talk host: Dr. Brenda Boudreau, professor of English. Admission is free.

Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m.: A McKendree Christmas is a holiday concert presented by the Division of Visual and Performing Arts. Admission is free for all.

Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 5, 2 p.m.: The Traveling Salvation Show recreates the energy and magic of Neil Diamond’s live arena performances with a Christmas twist. While the show on Dec. 4 is nearly sold out, the band has added a second show on Dec. 5 at 2 p.m., which is also expected to sell quickly. Admission is $30 for adults, $28 for seniors and $10 for students and children. McKendree University students can attend for free.

Dec. 7, 10 a.m. (Arts Ed., grades K-12), 7 p.m. (SOLD OUT); Dec. 8, 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. (SOLD OUT): U.S. Air Force Band of Mid-America presents a stunning holiday concert that will bring holiday cheer to concertgoers. Featuring talented musical ambassadors of Headquarters Air Mobility Command at Scott Air Force Base, this Hett holiday tradition is always a crowd-pleaser and sells out quickly! Admission is free; however, tickets are required.

SOLD OUT: Dec. 10, 6:30 p.m.; Dec. 11 6:30 p.m.; and Dec. 12, 2 p.m.: The Hett and State Street Dance Company co-present The Nutcracker, a cherished and timely holiday classic featuring local dance talent and principals from leading professional companies. This two-act Russian ballet features the famous score by Pyotr Iliych Tchaikovsky and has become a beloved Christmas season tradition. Tickets are $30 for adults, $28 for seniors and $10 for students and children. McKendree University students can attend for free. A waitlist is available at www.theHett.com.