Famous Brass Quintet Returns to Webb Center
Back by popular demand, Canadian Brass makes their return to the Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts in Wickenburg on Tuesday, Apr. 1 at 7:30 p.m. for the final show of the theatre’s 2024-2025 Season. Since 1970, the brass quintet has brightened concert halls and festivals across the globe with their showmanship, lively banter and humorous pranks, performing everything from Vivaldi to Duke Ellington to Broadway.
Canadian Brass’ varied repertoire features brass standards as well as a diverse library of original arrangements created especially for them. A typical concert program can include anything from classical pieces, marches, and ragtime to jazz, Big Band, and Broadway musical numbers.
Masters of concert presentations, Canadian Brass has developed a uniquely engaging stage presence and rapport with audiences. The current roster of five members continue the tradition of all Canadian Brass performances: entertainment, spontaneity, virtuosity and, most of all, fun. But never at the expense of the music.
The ensemble includes founding member, Chuck Daellenbach with his gold-plated and carbon-fiber tuba; Juilliard and Yale-trained trumpeter Mikio Sasaki; trumpeter and ASU professor Joe Burgstaller; French horn player and amateur magician Jeff Nelsen; and Keith Dyrda, who covers the trombone, euphonium, bass trumpet and even the violin.
With a catalog of over 130 albums, the ensemble continues to score Billboard chart positions. Their 2010 rousing recording, “Stars & Stripes: Canadian Brass Salute America,” spent 8 weeks in the Top 25 on the Billboard Classical Chart, peaking at #2!
Touring legends with an enthusiastic fan base, Canadian Brass play to packed houses everywhere throughout the USA, Canada, Japan and Europe. “The first time they were scheduled to perform at the Webb Center in March 2011, I thought this is going to be a stuffy snooze-fest,” commented Stephanie Fornoff, Director of Marketing. “Boy, was I wrong! By the third number they had the whole audience rolling with laughter at their silly antics. The music was on point, but all seriousness was out the window.”
Don’t miss your chance to see these spectacular musicians live. Tickets for the Tuesday, Apr. 1 concert start at $45 for adults and $5 for youth 18 & under. They are on sale now at the Webb Center Box Office 928.684.6624 or by visiting webbcenter.org/.
Highly Sought After String Trio Makes Webb Center Debut
Prepare for a genre-bending night of music with the highly sought after string trio Time For Three (TF3). They often refer to themselves as a “classically trained garage band,” because of their eclectic musical tastes, ranging from classical and pop to jazz and hip-hop, as well as their informal dress, even when performing at Carnegie Hall. Experience a live concert for yourself when TF3 makes their Wickenburg debut at the Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts on Wednesday, Mar. 26 at 7:30 p.m.
Grammy and Emmy-winning ensemble, Time For Three, defies convention and boundaries when blending their instruments and voices across different genres. Their unique sound captivates audiences, immersing them in a musical experience that unites various eras, styles, and traditions. Examples include exciting mashups of Britney Spears’ “Toxic” merged with Vivaldi’s “Summer,” and The Beatles’ “Eleanor Rigby” combined with Mozart’s “Lacrimosa,” among others.
The charter members of TF3 met while students at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia and formalized the performance ensemble in 2003. TF3, currently consists of founders, Nicolas “Nick” Kendall (violin, vocals) and Ranaan Meyer (double bass, vocals). In 2015 Juilliard graduate Charles Yang (violin, vocals), described by The Boston Globe as one who “plays classical violin with the charisma of a rock star,” joined the group.
Renowned for their engaging and energetic performances, TF3 has garnered praise from respected outlets including NPR, NBC, The Wall Street Journal, and the Chicago Sun-Times. They have graced the illustrious stages of The Kennedy Center and The Royal Albert Hall, effortlessly adapting their inimitable and versatile style to intimate venues like Joe’s Pub in New York or unusual spaces like NFL games, the Indianapolis 500 and an aircraft carrier museum. Their collaborations span a diverse range of artists, including Jake Shimabukuro, Branford Marsalis, Joshua Bell, Natasha Bedingfield, and Arlo Guthrie, as well as major U.S. symphonies such as The Phoenix Symphony (Oct. 2024).
TF3's artistic achievements, fueled by their relentless pursuit of musical excellence, have solidified their status as a remarkable ensemble. Their Grammy win and extraordinary collaborations speak to their unwavering dedication to pushing creative boundaries and captivating audiences with their exceptional talent. Tickets for the Wednesday, Mar. 26 performance start at $45 for adults and $5 for youth 18 & under. They are on sale now at the Webb Center Box Office 928.684.6624 or by visiting webbcenter.org/.
Worldwide Guitarists Wow at the Webb Center
The 25th annual North American tour of International Guitar Night celebrates four guitar masters from around the globe. They combine their diverse talents and individual guitar stylings into an exceptional afternoon of breathtaking performances, spanning the spectrum of artistry. Experience it for yourself live at the Webb Center on Sunday, Mar. 23 at 3:30 p.m.
The curated lineup features Germany-based guitarist Lulo Reinhardt. Hailing from the renowned Reinhardt family as the grand-nephew of Django, Lulo is a virtuoso in his own right celebrated for his Latin Swing style deeply rooted in the Sinti tradition. From his early years playing in bands with his father, brothers, and cousins and his own Latin Swing Project, Lulo’s journey is an exploration of his Sinti identity, an ethnic minority group of Romani people, as well as encounters with other cultures. With numerous albums and global collaborations, Lulo continues to innovate.
“The Guardian” recently recognized Britain’s dynamic classical guitarist Alexandra Whittingham as “a young 21st-century virtuoso.” With a repertoire including contemporary and classic works, she combines phenomenal technique with a creative spirit that challenges convention. Her debut album, “My European Journey,” topped charts by spotlighting lesser-known composers of the nineteenth century with her musical passion and virtuosity. With a massive online following and performances worldwide, Alexandra’s star continues to rise with her debut in International Guitar Night.
Niwel Tsumbu, a Congolese-born guitarist and singer based in Ireland, writes sophisticated compositions that blend Latin and African rhythms with jazz and classical influences. Niwel is known for his original percussive style and his Grammy-winning collaborations with global icons like Rhiannon Giddens and the Silk Road Ensemble. His fluidity across genres solidifies his place as a musical trailblazer, promising an unforgettable performance.
Germany’s Sönke Meinen has earned respect in the Contemporary Fingerstyle guitar world for solo guitar works that turn folk, classical, pop, and jazz influences into a diverse musical journey. From fiery guitar displays with incredible dexterity to soul-stirring ballads, Sönke’s songs awaken the imagination to the infinite possibilities offered by the acoustic guitar. Renowned for his versatility and world-class skill, Sönke promises an exceptional performance combining jaw-dropping virtuosity with incredible sensitivity that will delight audiences of all backgrounds.
Since its conception in Northern California in the late 90’s, International Guitar Night has been at the forefront of showcasing the world’s most exceptional guitarists. Founded by Brian Gore, IGN has become a celebrated platform for both established virtuosos and rising stars, consistently providing audiences with an unparalleled musical experience. Don’t miss International Guitar Night’s final stop on their 42-city North American tour at the Webb Center theatre. Tickets for the Sunday, Mar. 23 matinee performance start at $27 for adults and $5 for youth 18 & under. They are on sale now at the Webb Center Box Office 928.684.6624 or by visiting webbcenter.org/.
Bringing Broadway to the ‘burg
Direct from London’s West End, The Barricade Boys are the UK’s most dynamic theatrical vocal group. Powerhouse voices, slick dance moves and an incredible array of music transport audiences through the decades, right up to modern day. Experience it for yourself at the Webb Center on Wednesday, Mar. 19 at 7:30 p.m.
Backed by a live 4-piece band, The Barricade Boys effortlessly serve up the powerful energy of “West Side Story,” transition to the carefree doo-wop harmonies of “The Jersey Boys,” and then deliver the raw emotion of “Les Misérables.” The group takes audiences on a thrilling journey, which also includes melodies from the world’s greatest singer-songwriters, like Elton John, Ed Sheeran, The Beatles and Freddie Mercury of Queen.
“Les Misérables” alumni Scott Garnham and Simon Schofield “dreamed a dream” and wanted to create an audience experience that was much more than just songs from popular Broadway shows. Launched in 2015, their vision is an electrifying evening of entertainment, where your favorite musicals blend with the greatest pop, rock and swing numbers from the past 70 years.
Garnham and Schofield are joined onstage by Craig Mather and Kieran Brown. These headliners all have one thing in common: they all performed in the West End, international tour or movie of the popular musical “Les Misérables;” hence the group’s name, The Barricade Boys. Between them, the four talented vocalists have an impressive list of credits including “Mamma Mia,” “Wicked,” “The Book Of Mormon,” “The Sound of Music,” and “Phantom of the Opera,” to name a few.
What makes The Barricade Boys truly special is not only their incredible voices and amazing harmonies, but also the genuine friendship the performers have for each other. Throughout the event, the stunning musical numbers and choreographed dance routines are punctuated with stories and anecdotes from shows in which they have starred. Even in the largest venues and playing to packed houses, the warm and easy rapport The Barricade Boys have with their audience makes this spectacular entertainment feel like an intimate evening.
Tickets for the Wednesday, Mar. 19 performance start at $50 for adults and $5 for youth 18 & under. They are on sale now at the Webb Center Box Office 928.684.6624 or by visiting webbcenter.org/.
Seeking the Best Grillers for Guys Who Grill
Wickenburg’s premier grilling competition, Guys Who Grill, returns on Saturday, March 15 for its 13th year of delicious barbeque, cold beer, and live entertainment. The Webb Center is seeking teams to compete in a “heated” battle during this annual fundraising event. Teams will spend a fun-filled day showing off their culinary skills, enjoying the camaraderie of the competitors and claiming prizes including the coveted People’s Choice Award!
From 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Wickenburg Community Center will bustle with the sights, sounds and aromas of grilling teams offering the crowd their best menu items to sample – wings, brisket, pulled pork, ribs and more! The coveted People’s Choice Award goes to the team with the most donations, or “Votes,” collected at their booth. Teams can consist of guys and gals, church groups, families, friends, the casual backyard grillers or professional chefs – all are welcome!
“We’ve participated in Guys Who Grill for the past two years with 6H BBQ and the Haley family,” shared Bryce Webster, owner of Vulture Peak Brewing Company. “We have a blast getting to know the other teams from Wickenburg and the Valley while supporting our local theatre, the Webb Center.”
“Our kids love participating in Camp Imagination every summer. It’s amazing to have such a quality performing arts camp right here in town,” added Susan Webster, WUSD Board of Education member. “Every year when I look around at the Guys Who Grill crowd of barbecue lovers, I am excited to be a part of this wonderful event that brings together the community in support of our kids.”
There is no fee to register and Guys Who Grill teams are eligible for reimbursement up to $400 in expenses to help subsidize food costs. Guys Who Grill is sanctioned by the Barbeque Championship Series and AZ Barbeque. More details are available at webbcenter.org/. Email Janet Lang at jlang@dewpac.org or call 928.684.6610 to register your team by Friday, February 28.
Guys Who Grill event attendees will enjoy all-you-can-sample BBQ and live music. VIP tickets, offering reserved, covered seating and food service, are available in advance for $50. General admission tickets are $20 in advance or at the gate. Advance tickets may be purchased online at webbcenter.org/ or by calling the Webb Center Box Office at 928.684.6624. All proceeds benefit the theater’s “Arts for Kids” programs, including the annual summer arts camp, Camp Imagination.
Unlock the Secrets to a Longer, Vibrant Life
The Webb Center is pleased to present an evening with photographer and filmmaker David McLain as a part of the Changemaker Speaker Series on Tuesday, Mar. 4. Through his multi-media program, McLain will take audiences on a globetrotting journey to a life well-lived as he uncovers the secrets of the Blue Zones, places on Earth where people regularly live vibrant and healthy lives beyond 100 years.
McLain has spent 15 years working alongside author Dan Buettner to study and document the habits of centenarians in five geographic Blue Zone locations including California, Costa Rica, Italy, Greece, and Japan. Now, through personal anecdotes and scientific research, McLain explores how adopting practices they share can add quality years to our own lives.
David McLain honed his photographic chops shooting feature-length assignments around the world for “National Geographic” magazine. His assignments took him to six continents and often required 200 days on the road each year. The stories varied, but the mandate was always the same: work with every kind of person under any kind of condition and create timeless, yet contemporary images, for a client with the highest visual standards.
He has photographed seven feature stories for “National Geographic,” shot for major brands like Sony and Apple, and was director of photography for the feature documentary “Bounce,” which premiered at SXSW in 2015. McLain specializes in exploring questions across a range of subjects by telling intimate stories about real people. His primary tools include curiosity, attentiveness to his craft, an ability to listen, and deep empathy for people who inhabit different realities than his own.
His work together with Buettner on the Blue Zones project has produced several books, including a “New York Times” best-selling cookbook “Blue Zones Kitchen,” and stories for “National Geographic,” “Smithsonian,” and other national publications.
The 75-minute Changemaker Speaker Series presentation blends McLain’s fascinating stories and riveting imagery using vibrant photographs and documentary-style video clips. The program concludes with a 15-minute period where McLain will answer questions from the audience. McLain believes the best stories inspire us to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. Tickets to experience David McClain’s “The Blue Zones: Unlocking the Secrets of Longevity” start at $45 for adults. Visit webbcenter.org/ or call the Webb Center Box Office at 928.684.6624 to reserve your seats today.
Performing Music from Cartoons
Audiences will be transported into the whimsical world of animation and live jazz music, with a touch of zany antics, when The Queen’s Cartoonists (TQC) make their highly anticipated debut at the Webb Center theatre on Friday, Feb. 28 at 7:30 p.m. Known for their masterful performances of vintage cartoon soundtracks, this one-of-a-kind ensemble offers an exhilarating experience that has captivated audiences of all ages.
The six members of TQC originally hail from four continents, but all now reside in Queens, New York – hence the band’s name. Pulling from over 100 years of animation from around the world, TQC’s concerts are perfectly synchronized to the films projected on stage. While the cartoons dazzle the audience, the band re-creates original soundtracks note-for-note, or writes their own fresh compositions to modern pieces; bringing together two uniquely American art forms: jazz and animation.
The band matches the energy of the cartoons bringing to life the delightful soundscapes of classics like “Looney Tunes,” “Yogi Bear,” and “The Pink Panther” with music by composers such as Duke Ellington, Henry Mancini, Danny Elfman, and even Mozart. Tying everything together is the TQC brand of comedy – anecdotes about the cartoons and their composers, stream-of-consciousness humor, and elements of a musical circus.
Recently Hassayampa Elementary School’s Media Club had the opportunity to interview TQC’s pianist Joel Pierson and clarinetist Mark Phillips. Aries, a fifth grade student asked, “Have you ever forgotten the music? What did you do?” To which Joel replied, “We memorize the music before we get on stage, but there are moments when you go blank and then you have to somehow finish playing. If I forget what’s happening, I’ll listen to everybody else and then my memory will kick back in.” The students were thrilled to meet some of the band members in advance of the show and to be invited on a backstage tour of the Webb Center when they arrive.
Celebrating their tenth anniversary in 2025, every TQC performance is a nostalgic journey that pays homage to early animators and composers and shares their timeless creations with new generations. Tickets for the Friday, Feb. 28 concert start at $23 for adults and $5 for youth 18 & under.
Tickets are on sale now at the Webb Center Box Office 928.684.6624 or by visiting webbcenter.org/.
Witness the Artistry of Mexican Culture
Witness artistry and passion when Ballet Folklórico de México’s company of 45 dancers and musicians celebrate the rich history and vibrant folklore of Mexican culture at the Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts on Thursday, Feb. 20 at 7:30 p.m.
Founded in 1952 by visionary Amalia Hernández, the dancer and choreographer revolutionized the concept of Mexican traditional dance and forever transformed its impact. Hernández devoted her time to researching the folklore, music, costumes, and dance of the diverse geographic regions of Mexico, and uniquely brought them to life creating dynamic performances that are a true portrait of the country’s beauty, diversity and storied past.
Her repertoire has become a classic – one that is renewed, transformed, and enriched with the passage of time. Through mesmerizing motion and authentic costumes, each dance tells a unique story and showcases the treasured folklore of Mexico dating from pre-Colombian civilizations through the modern era.
Ballet Folklórico will demonstrate a collection of these traditional dances blending ancient indigenous rituals and Spanish flamenco with German polkas, Afro-Caribbean rhythms, and classical ballet to become something new and genuinely Mexican. The spectacle of dancers and energetic live musicians all convey a profound sense of meaning that speaks to the soul of Mexico and its people.
Roslyn Sulcas of “The New York Times” writes, “The dancers, clad in eye-popping pink, green and turquoise, move in battalion-worthy, cascading lines, their small stamping steps sharply reminiscent of tap. The gorgeous costumes and breathtaking formations keep coming, dance after dance.”
Over the past seven decades, Ballet Folklórico has served as a leading cultural ambassador performing at World Fairs, Pan American Games, Festivals of Nations, and on countless international tours as well as maintaining a weekly performance schedule at the prestigious Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City.
Enjoy a tour of Mexico with one of the country’s most acclaimed dance companies – no passports needed! Tickets for the Thursday, Feb. 20 performance start at $40 for adults and $5 for youth 18 & under. Tickets are on sale now at the Webb Center Box Office 928.684.6624 or by visiting webbcenter.org/.
Kick Up Your Boots with Little Texas
Experience Academy of Country Music Awards’ “Vocal Group of the Year,” Little Texas, when they make their Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts’ debut on Friday, Feb. 14 and Saturday, Feb. 15 at 7:30 p.m. as a part of Wickenburg’s annual Gold Rush Days festival. With a sound like no other, the concerts are sure to offer audiences an unforgettable night of country hits.
During their only Arizona tour stop, founding members Porter Howell (lead guitar and vocals), Dwayne O’Brien (rhythm guitar), Duane Propes (bass guitar), and Del Gray (drums), will share their music with seasoned fans and newcomers alike. “I love country music and I’m a big fan of Little Texas with their high-energy shows. I look forward to singing along to my favorite songs,” quipped local resident and event sponsor Sally Norris. “I’m a big supporter of the Webb Center and I’m always amazed at the nationally recognized talent we have performing right here in our backyard!”
Little Texas was conceived in 1988, in Nashville, Tennessee, by a handful of guys in their early twenties who were willing to do just about anything to bring their brand of rockin’ country to the forefront of the music industry. Before hitting the big time, the band crisscrossed America for three long years, playing every bar and honky tonk from Myrtle Beach, SC, to Los Angeles, CA, all the while writing songs that were destined to change the sound of modern country, and perfecting a their critically acclaimed stage show.
Their second album, “Big Time,” truly was the big time for Little Texas, as it spawned three # 1 singles with “What Might Have Been,” “God Blessed Texas,” and “My Love,” capturing the band their very first CMT award, a Billboard award, a Radio & Records award and a Grammy nomination. To date the 1993 release has sold over 3 million copies, with their entire catalog of albums selling over 7 million copies worldwide.
Tickets for Little Texas’ special Valentine’s Day concert on Friday, Feb. 14 and second show on Saturday, Feb. 15 are on sale now, starting at $60 for adults and $5 for youth 18 & under. Reserve your seats today by calling the Webb Center Box Office at 928-684-6624 or visiting webbcenter.org/.
Webb Center hosting “Art in Motion” Gala on Feb. 8
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening at the Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts’ annual “Art in Motion” Gala fundraising event on Saturday, Feb. 8. This spectacular evening culminates with a captivating cabaret performance headlined by the renowned musical group, Davina and the Vagabonds.
All proceeds from the Gala and accompanying online auction help fund the Webb Center’s vibrant performing arts programs such as Camp Imagination and free student performances. Your participation ensures the continuation of these enriching, artistic experiences for the greater community.
Indulge in the elegance of the “Art in Motion” Gala, where the spotlight shines on more than just music. The festivities kick off with a hosted cocktail reception and an array of robust hors d’oeuvres with interactive fun like a wine pull and prize drawings. As the night unfolds, guests are escorted to dine on stage with a plated 3-course dinner by Phoenix-based Creations in Cuisine Catering.
After dessert, Davina and the Vagabonds will take the stage for an intimate concert featuring soul-stirring original music as well as hits from the American Songbook. Known for their high-energy hot jazz and blues, the 5-piece band offers listeners a uniquely ageless sound with diverse influences ranging from Fats Domino and Ella Fitzgerald to Preservation Hall Jazz Band.
Can’t make it to the “Art in Motion” Gala? Everyone can participate in the online auction. Offering over 100 items, the online auction includes rare collectibles, fine art, jewelry, accessories, and one-of-a-kind experiences for bid. The auction is live Sunday, Feb. 2 through Monday, Feb. 10. The auction link will be available on webbcenter.org/ and on the theatre’s social media pages when it goes live.
Admission to the annual fundraiser includes a hosted bar, dinner, and concert. The Gala event has limited seating and begins on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 6:00 p.m. in the John & Lynne Boyer Atrium of the Webb Center. Reserve your tickets by January 23 by visiting webbcenter.org/ or calling the Box Office at 928-684-6624.