Wadena Area Concert Association kicks off 2022-2023 season

WADENA — As the temps start to lower and the days grow darker earlier it's nice to know there is something to fill your soul right in your own backyard.
It's time for the Wadena Area Concert Association (WACA) to kick off another season of great live shows out of the historic Memorial Auditorium.
This season's shows offer an eclectic array of music including the music of James Taylor, brass, jazz and Irish bands to boot.
New WACA president Bridget King said the group gathered up with Allied Concert Services to come up with a winning lineup for the Wadena audience. Organizers used a survey during the Wadena's Got Talent event that should help them with future choices, too. King shared that she was overwhelmed by the great support shown during the Wadena's Got Talent event and looks forward to seeing many new and returning faces come out and enjoy the concert series.
"The program is amazing!" past president of WACA Bonnie Kingsley said. "You really get a bang for your buck."
"Our concerts include literally world renowned groups," Kingsley said. "No matter how wonderful the music is, we've got to have people to support a program like this."

There's always lots of room at the Memorial Auditorium for you and the whole family, so come on out and make a night of it.

Here's a closer look at the schedule:

Nashville-based Steve Leslie is an awarded singer/songwriter/guitarist. With “How Sweet It Is”, he turns his warm baritone & consummate guitar playing
to the music of James Taylor, one of his most influential favorites. Steve’s songs have been recorded by Kenny Rogers, Mark Chesnutt, George Strait, and others.

Minneapolis-based sextet which brings a fresh perspective to the brass quintet. Fusing brass instruments with keyboard, percussion, guitars, and electronic instruments, CSB seeks to play all types of music in bold and innovative ways, coupled with friendly and charming stage presence. Their eclectic performance will feature something for everyone.

Minneapolis-based jazz trio giving a modern twist to classic jazz and pops favorites. Led by fleet-fingered pianist Travis Anderson, this creative ensemble will bring many smiles to your face with a familiar program of 60s’ TV theme music, Disney & pops/jazz standards. Steve Pikal, the first-call bassist of the Twin Cities, lays down a great bass line.
Drummer Nathan Norman is a smooth and sensitive player who adds many interesting colors to the beat.

Illumine Trio is led by trumpeter Chris O’Hara from Alliance Brass and Synergy Brass, plus soprano and harp—an unusual combination, but a lovely one! Intended to brighten, enlighten, and light up, Illumine’s goal is to perform beautiful music beautifully. Whether that is through Renaissance or Classical or Pops Standards, Illumine will leave its audiences feeling as if they have been uplifted by virtuosity, grace, style and beauty.

Ring of Kerry is a bursting-with-energy Irish music group that captures the hearts of listeners. All five of its engaging musicians sing and play several instruments. From the thundering sound of the bodhran to the sparkle of the hammered dulcimer, from the lilt and rhythm of fiddle and guitar to the haunting wails of the flute and pennywhistles, the band has developed a blend that is animated, ruggedly beautiful and fun. Ring of Kerry’s specialty is playing highly energetic and engaging stage shows including a troupe of Irish dancers.

Season Membership ticket prices will remain the same as last year:

• $90 for a Family Membership (includes two adults and their children through age 18)
• $45 for an Adult Membership
• $15 for a Student Membership (includes college students)
  
  Arts and Entertainment

  First concert for Wadena Concert Association held in 1955

  Lina Belar, Interim Exexcutive Director, Wadena County Historical Society Sunday night's incredible performance of "Les Trompettes" at the Memorial Auditorium inspired me to research the beginnings of the Wadena Area Concert Association. As usual...

  May 04, 2014 11:00 PM

Buying a membership gets you access to more than just Wadena shows. Through reciprocity you can attend shows in Alexandria, Fergus Falls, Park Rapids and Sauk Centre this season. The Wadena concerts are in Memorial Auditorium and start at 7:30 p.m. on the designated days. To purchase tickets, call president Bridget King for a form or stop by the first show.If you’d like to volunteer on the WACA board, you can also contact King at 218-639-2469 or through the Wadena Area Concert Association Facebook page.

Learn even more about these concerts at the Allied Concert Services website at alliedbooking.com