EntertainmentPlus! provides an exciting series of programs featuring entertainers from across the continent! Your ticket also includes a post-performance wine and beer reception and an opportunity to meet the artist. For tickets call 513.863.8873 ext. 110. The cost for members is $15; non-members $20. All shows are Saturday evening at 8:00 p.m., except where noted.
Reception Sponsor: MillerCoors
Series Beverage Sponsor: G&J Pepsi-Cola Bottlers, Inc.
GroundWorks DanceTheater is imagination you can see. Critically celebrated as an “artistically significant” ensemble, GroundWorks explores the nuances of the human experience through unique and adventurous choreography. This exciting, eclectic work brings audiences face-to-face with fresh, fascinating performances of passion, intellect and humor.
Artistic director David Shimotakahara founded GroundWorks in 1998. From its Northeast Ohio base, this group of outstanding artists has emerged as the region’s premiere dance company with a reputation that continues to expand. GroundWorks has introduced dance lovers and neophytes alike to an experience that is unconventional, yet deeply human and resonating.
View GroundWorks' Web site here.
EVENT SPONSOR: Claire Fitton
Susan Werner composes skillful songs that effortlessly slide between folk, jazz, and pop, all delivered with sassy wit and classic Midwestern charm. Throughout her expansive career, boundless versatility has emerged as a hallmark of Werner’s talent, and has proven to be a quintessential ingredient of her engrossing musical persona.
"... a triply blessed artist who sings adroitly, plays the piano smartly and, best of all, writes songs of genuine distinction and high craft." - Chicago Tribune
Visit Susan's Web site.
EVENT SPONSOR: Trudy &Stephen Marcum
In the thirties and forties swing bands dominated every phase of the popular music business from records, to ballroom appearances, club work, and live shows at movie theaters. They were HOT. One of our favorite jazz performers, Bill Gemmer, has organized an elite line up of this area’s premier musicians. They form his Royal Palm Orchestra and will perform a selection of songs from the swing era and feature the beautiful voice of Nancy James. Come hear music for the holidays that is primarily jazz with a sprinkling of the Christmas season!
EVENT SPONSOR: Marie & Bud Brown
This Cincinnati-based, award-winning group has what it takes to please all types of folk music fans. Rooted in traditional American music, their repertoire branches in diverse directions: from original tunes to swing, blues and traditional songs, using guitar, mandolin, dulcimer, concertina, dobro, banjo, bass, and vocals. Wild Carrot’s entertaining and moving performances have something for everyone and have often been described as “honest, soothing, uplifting and fun”, moving an audience from laughter to tears and back again in a way that makes the listener feel like they’re in a conversation with old friends.
Visit Wild Carrot's Web site here.
Come on a trip to Hamilton's big band past! Remember the big band dances at the Moose and Elks City Club? The intrigue of the Stockton Club and Spatz Show Bar? The bands of Sheik Coyle, Boo Winkler, Whitey Howard, and Ernie Weaver? Bring your Valentine for an evening of dancing in our beautiful Carruthers Signature Ballroom and let the Franz Klaber Big Band Orchestra take you down memory lane. Featuring songs from the 40s, 50s, and 60s, this sure to be an evening that you won't want to miss. Each ticket includes admission, two drink tickets and light snacks. Additional beverages will be available for purchase. Doors open at 7:00 with dancing from 7:30 – 11:30pm.
EVENT SPONSOR: James Winkle
Four grand pianos all in one place! Join us this year as again we are delighted by the musical gifts of accomplished pianist Rod Nimtz and Jeff Smith. They will be joined on the remaining two pianos by two new guest pianists and a parade of young pianists in our area that will absolutely amaze you with their talents. Join us for another unforgettable evening, but heed this friendly reminder: get your tickets early. Even with a Saturday night and Sunday afternoon performance…… we’re confident this show we again be a sellout.
EVENT SPONSOR: Betty Terry
In a style reminiscent of a late-night talk show, he invites the audience to laugh with him at the absurdity of a modern-day magician. He combines his sarcastic and irreverent sense of humor with mind-blowing magic in a way that seems to let the audience “in on the joke.”
Visit Michael's Web site here.
EVENT SPONSOR: James K. & Susan A. Fitton
A superior and swinging jazz singer, Banu is one of the very few vocalists of her generation to stick exclusively to songs of the 1920s and 1930s. A powerful force on stage, her enthusiasm and showmanship are highlighted with her wide range and versatility, spanning Bessie Smith to Billie Holiday; The Boswell Sisters to Sophie Tucker; and Lee Wiley to Fanny Brice. Not content to copy the past, Banu Gibson and the New Orleans Hot Jazz Band consistently invent fresh and imaginative variations of songs as old as 60 years, giving new life to unforgettable music with their irresistible presentation.
EVENT SPONSOR: Dan & Cordelia Millikin