FEATURED EVENTS
MUSIC
MUSIC
DISNEY: THE SOUND OF MAGIC
Holland Performing Arts Center
January 27-28
Admission: Tickets start at $20
1200 Douglas St.
Bring the whole family and immerse yourself in the sound of magic! Omaha Symphony’s “Disney: The Sound of Magic” brings the enchanting world of Disney to Omaha in a symphonic tribute to a century of Disney music, animation, and cherished memories. This one-of-a-kind concert brings iconic soundtracks from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Disney Parks to life on both the concert hall stage and the grand screen. Prepare for a captivating journey through a century of the most unforgettable songs, scores, and cinematic moments as you enjoy this magical multimedia experience. Join the symphony in celebrating Disney’s legacy with exciting animated sequences on the big screen synchronized to both classic and modernized orchestral arrangements of your favorite songs. Attendees also get the chance to experience behind-the-scenes historical footage, artwork, and sketches. From timeless classics like Peter Pan, Aladdin, and The Lion King to modern hits like Moana and Frozen, and even Disney Parks favorites, this celebration of “The Sound of Magic” promises to be a remarkable experience. 402.345.0202
ART
OMAHA FASHION WEEK
Omaha Design Center
February 21–25
Admission: Tickets start at $65
1502 Cuming St.
The fourth-largest fashion week in the nation returns for another exciting season. Omaha Fashion Week began in 2008, with a small gathering in the heart of the Old Market featuring 12 designers, 20 models, and 2,000 attendees. Fifteen years later, its impressive growth has helped Omaha become a nationally recognized name in the fashion industry, providing new opportunities for talented and passionate designers and entrepreneurs. OFW is the first to make show participation completely free of charge for designers, establishing itself as one of the most accessible and exciting stages for blossoming designers or students to see their work on the runway. With designers and fans from all over the world, attendance has grown annually to over 10,000 people, who come to witness growing fashion industry talent be showcased right here in Omaha. Join the fashionable fun this season and come see the latest styles on the Spring 2024 runway. 402.937.1061
FILM
OMAHA FILM FESTIVAL
Aksarben Cinema
February 27–March 3
Admission: Passes start at $65
2110 S 67th St
Join the Omaha Film Festival (OFF) for its 19th year of showcasing incredible talent! Established in 2005, OFF has been a platform for the local community to embrace the art of independent filmmaking. Voted by MovieMaker magazine as one of the 2019 and 2020 “50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee,” this festival celebrates the artistic, educational, and historical importance of motion pictures. It presents new films by emerging artists that might not otherwise be accessible in the region, allowing audiences to access an early look at some of the up-and-coming names worth discussing. The festival’s annual event showcases a diverse selection of over 100 films, carefully chosen from nearly 1,000 submissions received from around the globe. This lineup includes narrative features, documentaries, short films, and animated shorts, along with a special segment dedicated to Nebraska-made films. Filmmakers whose works are selected have the opportunity to attend the festival and engage with the audience in post-screening discussions. Aksarben Cinema proudly hosts this annual event once again. Bring the whole family and enjoy the show!
EXHIBITIONS
WHITE CHRISTMAS—THE EXHIBITION
Through January 28 at The Durham Museum, 801 S 10th St. Experience this festive exhibition before the holiday season comes to an end. It will feature film, costumes created by legendary designer Edith Head, along with props, sheet music, behind-the-scenes photos, archival materials, and more from the classic 1954 film. 402.444.5071.
BART VARGAS: MORE OF THE SAME
February 2 at Petshop Gallery, 2725 N 62nd St. Benson Galleries and artist Bart Vargas present “More of the Same: A Series of Juvenile Collages and Some Paintings by a Middleaged Man” at Petshop, a shared creative space in Benson. The event will also feature local DJ Crabrangucci. 402.203.5488
LINDA FLEMING: EXPERIMENTA DE VACUO SPATIO
Through February 4 at KANEKO, 1111 Jones St. This KANEKO exhibition features Fleming’s earlier and recent artworks, delving into the concepts of location, constructs, and substance. It’s a thrilling chance to observe the interplay of her artistic evolution right here in Omaha. “Experimenta de Vacuo Spatio” presents an array of sculptures, drawings, and wall pieces that encapsulate 56 years of Fleming’s artistry. Her complex pieces have been exhibited in major art museums globally, and featured in public and private collections over many years. The 78-year-old’s sculptures are a must-see in Omaha. 402.341.3800
JULIA CHILD: A RECIPE FOR LIFE
Through February 11 at The Durham Museum, 801 S 10th St. Julia Child’s boundless curiosity and unwavering determination spurred her to experiment, refine, demonstrate, and share the art of creating delectable cuisine. This exhibition delves into the fundamental elements that fueled Julia’s personal growth and ignited a culinary revolution in America. Explore this exhibition from noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday. 402.444.5071
CREAM OF THE CROP: OMAHA PIONEERS OF THE FOOD SCENE
Through February 11 at The Durham Museum, 801 S 10th St. This exhibition shines a spotlight on influential women in the Omaha culinary scene. These leading ladies, considered Nebraska’s culinary trailblazers, have left a lasting mark by sharing their passion for food through accessible and delightful recipes. Among the featured individuals is Helen Mahammitt, a prominent caterer from North Omaha, renowned for her services at high-profile gatherings. She also established a cooking school to empower fellow Black women with the skills and confidence needed for successful catering ventures. 402.444.5071
NEO-CUSTODIANS: WOVEN NARRATIVES OF HERITAGE, CULTURAL MEMORY, AND BELONGING
Through April 2024 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S 12th St. This impressive exhibition showcases the work of artists whose practices are informed by African textiles. Learn more about the cultural, social, and political threads woven into their contemporary contexts and belonging within the African and diasporic canon. 402.341.7130
PAOLO ARAO: REVERBERATIONS
Through April 2024 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S 12th St. Arao’s sewn paintings, weavings, and site-responsive installations are rooted in geometric abstractions. This exhibition showcases the Filipino-American artist’s work over the past five years, including work he began as a resident at Bemis Center in 2020. 402.341.7130
CONCERTS
LAURA JANE GRACE
January 2 at Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. Laura Jane Grace brings her unique sound to Omaha. A key figure in today’s rock scene, she serves as both a solo artist and the frontwoman of Against Me!, a band she founded in the late 1990s in Naples, Florida. With four solo albums, her music captures her personal journey while maintaining her commitment to themes of political critique, environmentalism, personal and societal liberation, grounded in American musical traditions like country and folk-rock, and marked by a taste for noise and anarchy. 402.345.7569
BIG HEAD TODD AND THE MONSTERS
January 11 at Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. Joining together in 1993, Big Head Todd and The Monsters is a rock band formed by Todd Mohr, Brian Nevin, and Rob Squires from Colorado. The band has released several albums since 1989, and their 1993 release, “Sister Sweetly,” achieved platinum status in the United States. 402.345.7569
BROGAN BENTLEY: LIVE @ LOW END
January 11 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S 12th St. Join Brogan Bentley at LOW END, Bemis Center’s music venue located in the lower level. Bentley is a California-based electronic music producer, instrumentalist, and vocalist. Bentley’s music reflects a lineage of artists and musicians in the Dance & Electronic genre. 402.341.7130
BEETHOVEN’S EMPEROR
January 12-13 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Led by internationally acclaimed conductor Tito Muñoz, enjoy an evening featuring virtuoso pianist Michelle Cann performing Beethoven’s “Emperor” Piano Concerto No. 5. The night continues with Stravinsky’s Petrushka, an orchestral interpretation of the beloved ballet, portraying the poignant story of the puppet Petrushka vying for the ballerina’s love. Stravinsky’s masterful orchestration and Russian folk influences make this can’t-miss performance truly captivating. 402.345.0202
LEA BERTUCCI: LIVE @ LOW END
January 18 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S 12th St. Experience the artistry of Lea Bertucci, an experimental musician, composer, and performer, who explores the connections between acoustic phenomena and biological resonance. Her practice encompasses woodwind instruments, spatialized speaker arrays, innovative free improvisation, and unconventional uses of audio technology. With a discography spanning over a decade, she has released eight solo albums and participated in various collaborative endeavors. 402.341.7130
REVOLUTION: MUSIC OF THE BEATLES
January 20-21 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Join the Omaha Symphony for a captivating journey into the nostalgic world of the Beatles with “Revolution,” a mesmerizing presentation paying homage to the iconic band that forever altered rock music. This musical tribute to the band showcases renowned vocalists and musicians, with brand-new arrangements by GRAMMY-winner Jeff Tyzik, crafted from the original master recordings at Abbey Road. Experience this nostalgic celebration of the music that reshaped an era! 402.345.0202
FOY VANCE
January 25 at Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. Experience a new sound with Foy Vance. Hailing from Northern Ireland, Foy Vance is an Irish musician and singer-songwriter. He’s signed to Ed Sheeran’s Gingerbread Man record label and has not only shared the stage with the British singer-songwriter, but also had his music featured on various television shows. 402.345.7569
JAIME WYATT
January 27 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Jaime Wyatt is an accomplished American country music artist, known for her work as a singer, songwriter, and guitarist. With two albums, numerous singles, and live recordings to her name, she is deeply involved in the Americana and outlaw country music genres.
402.884.5707
DISTURBED: TAKE BACK YOUR LIFE TOUR
January 29 at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N 10th St. See Disturbed as their 2024 North American Tour graces Omaha. Fresh off a successful summer tour alongside Breaking Benjamin, Theory of a Deadman, and Jinjer, Disturbed is back with 23 “Take Back Your Life” shows nationally. 402.341.1500
ELI WALLACE: LIVE @ LOW END
February 1 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S 12th St. Based in Brooklyn, NY, Eli Wallace is a multifaceted artist—a pianist, composer, and curator. He operates both as a solo performer and collaborates with an array of musicians within the realms of improvisation and creative music. Over the past decade, he has made significant contributions to numerous albums, showcasing his versatile and dynamic talent. Experience his talents in Omaha at this special event. 402.341.7130
WILLIAM CLARK GREEN
February 9 at Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. William Clark Green is an American country music singer from Flint, Texas, bringing his charming stage presence to Omaha. He has released six studio albums and two live albums. Bring a friend to experience his impressive discography for one dazzling night only. 402.345.7569
SCOTTY MCCREERY: CAB IN A SOLO TOUR
February 10 at Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St. After nearly half his life in the country music limelight, this North Carolina native comes to Omaha, still dedicated to creative and personal growth. He’s on the brink of a new career chapter, headlining his solo tour, aptly named “Cab in a Solo Tour” after his latest single of the same title. 402.345.0606
JOHNNY CASH: THE OFFICIAL CONCERT EXPERIENCE
February 13 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. In a captivating presentation, Johnny Cash’s timeless songs and narratives come to life in Omaha in a fresh way. With video footage from episodes of “The Johnny Cash TV Show” projected on a screen above the stage, this concert experience rekindles the spirit of the legend through his memorable words and anecdotes. Male and female singers on stage will lend their unique interpretations to Cash’s classics, ensuring a continuous flow of music in this exceptional concert event. 402.345.0202
BLACK VIOLIN
February 13 at Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St. Experience how classical music converges with hip-hop with the innovative duo, Black Violin, who bring their unique sound to Omaha. Breaking the boundaries of genre, race, and gender, Will Baptiste on viola and Kev Marcus on the violin combine strings with groove. Their concerts are a vibrant celebration, where they enthusiastically welcome flash photography and a party atmosphere. Get ready for an electrifying performance! 402.345.0606
BAILEY ZIMMERMAN: RELIGIOUSLY. THE TOUR.
February 17 at Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St. Bailey Zimmerman, an unstoppable presence in the realm of country music, is set to bring his globally acclaimed “RELIGIOUSLY. THE TOUR” to Omaha. His recently released debut album, titled “Religiously. The Album.,” achieved record-breaking success. Not only did it become the most streamed debut album of the year across all music genres, but it also earned the title of the biggest streaming debut in the history of country music. 402.345.0606
BRASS TRANSIT
February 17 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. For more than a decade, Brass Transit, the premier Chicago tribute in North America, has been wowing audiences across the continent with impeccable renditions of Chicago’s chart-toppers, including classics like “Saturday In The Park,” “25 or 6 to 4,” and “You’re The Inspiration.” Watch them team up with the Omaha Symphony for a single, unforgettable evening! 402.345.0202
YO LA TENGO
February 18 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. Hailing from Hoboken, New Jersey, Yo La Tengo is an indie rock trio with a legacy dating back to 1984. Their recent triumph, “This Stupid World,” offers a mesmerizing collection of contemplative songs that stand strong against the relentless march of time. The group’s music doesn’t merely transcend eras; it defies time itself. Don’t miss their one-night stop in Omaha! 402.884.5353
VICTORIA KEDDIE: LIVE @ LOW END
February 22 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S 12th St. Victoria Keddie, an artist, curator, and educator, explores spaces and reimagines the stories materials and technology embody. Her work focuses on the residual presence of human existence in architecture and discarded artifacts within our media ecosystem. Keddie’s art has been exhibited internationally and at prestigious institutions like MoMA, making her a significant figure in the art world. 402.341.7130
WYCLIFFE GORDON
February 23 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Wycliffe Gordon is a prolific recording artist celebrated for his distinctive sound, plunger technique, and unique vocal prowess. He earned the distinction of “Trombonist of the Year” from the Jazz Journalists Association in 2020, marking an unprecedented 13th win. His remarkable talents also earned him the top spot in the Downbeat Critics Poll for “Best Trombone” an astonishing six times. 402.345.0202
STAGE PERFORMANCES
COREY HOLCOMB AT FUNNY BONE
January 5-6 at Funny Bone Comedy Club, 17305 Davenport St. From a complex upbringing to performing on the Tonight Show, Corey Holcomb’s comedy talent bridges socioeconomic and racial boundaries. His comedy performance is not just about words; it’s a full-sensory experience. His facial expressions alone can elicit uproarious laughter from the audience.
402.493.8036
MAMMA MIA!
January 9-14 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St. Experience the sensational musical tribute to ABBA’s iconic songs! Join the 25th-anniversary celebration of “Mamma Mia,” the musical that redefined jukebox musicals for a new era. Laugh and be moved by the bittersweet tale of single mother Donna, who grapples with her daughter’s wedding on a Greek island. Add in three former lovers, any of whom might be the father, and watch the sparks fly as this sunny and heartwarming story comes to Omaha. 402.661.8501
NAI-NI CHEN DANCE COMPANY—THE YEAR OF THE DRAGON
January 19 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St. Embracing fresh talent in dance, choreography, and art, this dance institution seamlessly fuses traditional and contemporary Chinese and Taiwanese dance forms to convey the heritage of dance within the immigrant Chinese-American community. Join Nai-Ni Chen in their telling of numerous stories and narratives through traditional dance infused with modern elements. 402.661.8501
DEMETRI MARTIN: THE JOKE MACHINE TOUR
January 26 at Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St. Demetri Martin, a stand-up comedian, writer, and director, boasts three stand-up comedy albums and four one-hour specials, with his most recent, “The Overthinker,” available on Netflix. Demetri’s creativity also extended to his Comedy Central show, “Important Things with Demetri Martin.” Now, he’s set to bring his talents to Omaha. 402.345.0606
KERWIN CLAIBORNE AT FUNNY BONE
January 28 at Funny Bone Comedy Club, 17305 Davenport St. Kerwin Claiborne’s latest comedy venture, “Thees W@#$ Folks Crazy,” comes to Omaha. Hailing from the small Mississippi town of Pattison, his remarkable work ethic and wit inspired him to create viral videos, featuring characters from his own life. With over one million social media followers, Claiborne is one to watch for a captivating comedy experience. 402.493.8036
BEETLEJUICE
January 30–February 4 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St. Get ready for the eerie world of Beetlejuice. Directed by two-time Tony Award winner Alex Timbers, this Broadway adaptation of Tim Burton’s cult classic film promises a spooky and entertaining experience. Join Beetlejuice (Justin Collette) as he helps a recently deceased couple haunt their old home, and follow Lydia (Isabella Esler) as she navigates a world of ghosts and grief. With a darkly whimsical script, gothic set design, and an original score by Eddie Perfect, this award-winning show offers a thrilling night of entertainment. 402.661.8501
SAM MORRIL AT FUNNY BONE
February 1-3 at Funny Bone Comedy Club, 17305 Davenport St. Sam Morril is a rapidly ascending stand-up comedian based in New York City, who is widely recognized as one of today’s premier joke crafters. His stand-up has graced The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, The Late Late Show with James Corden, and Conan on multiple occasions. You may even recognize him from a cameo in the Academy Award-nominated film, “Joker.” 402.493.8036
NATE BARGATZE: THE BE FUNNY TOUR
February 9 at CHI Health Center, 455 N 10th St. Nate Bargatze, acclaimed as “The Nicest Man in Stand-Up” by The Atlantic, is a Grammy-nominated stand-up comedian hailing from Nashville, Tennessee. With over 10 appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Bargatze has gained widespread recognition for his Netflix specials. 402.341.1500
NOEL MILLER: NEW SUPPLY TOUR AT FUNNY BONE
February 9-10 at Funny Bone Comedy Club, 17305 Davenport St. Noel Miller returns to Omaha! The popular comedian, musician, director, podcaster, and digital sensation brings his sharp one-liners and insightful social commentary that have established him as a formidable presence in the comedy scene. With comedy and music videos garnering over 21 million views, Miller’s witty humor speaks for itself. 402.493.8036
POETRY SLAM—OPEN MIC EVENT
February 10 at the OM Center, 1216 Howard St. Join the OM Center for a poetry open-mic event you won’t want to miss! Doors open at 7 p.m. for this open mic session, where performers will have up to three minutes to share their creative work. An outstanding featured performer and the thrilling poetry slam, comprising three rounds, will follow. This event showcases some of the nation’s most talented poets. 402.302.0375
LA TRAVIATA
February 16-18 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St. La Traviata, a renowned opera, narrates a tale of forbidden love between Violetta, a celebrated courtesan, and a privileged young man. Their passionate romance flourishes until societal norms compel Violetta to contemplate the sacrifices she’s willing to endure for his reputation. Come see this traditional production of one of opera’s beloved classics as it vividly portrays the fervor, optimism, and sacrifices entwined with the complexities of love. 402.661.8501
MORE
HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS 2024 WORLD TOUR
January 5 at Baxter Arena, 2524 S 67th St. Don’t miss the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters on their global tour! Experience groundbreaking basketball feats, unmatched fan fun, and incredible engagement opportunities at Baxter Arena with the whole family. Witness them in action with dazzling moves against their infamous rivals, the Washington Generals. 402.554.6200
CHRISTMAS AT UNION STATION
Through January 7 at The Durham Museum, 801 S 10th St. There’s still time to experience another year of holiday delight with Christmas at Union Station, proudly presented by FNBO. The Christmas magic will once again grace The Durham Museum, encompassing Omaha’s official Christmas tree, festive concerts, and a special visit from Santa himself. 402.444.5071
OMAHA TATTOO ARTS CONVENTION
January 12–14 at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N 10th St. Experience the artistry of 350 of the world’s best tattoo professionals, featuring premier local, national, and international talents. Meet renowned TV personalities from shows like Ink Master, Tattoos After Dark, and Best Ink, who will be available to tattoo the public. An array of vendors will be offering industrial supplies, clothing, artwork, and jewelry. Don’t pass up this must-attend event—there’s something for everyone! 402.341.1500
“JULIA” FILM SCREENING
January 16 at Film Streams, 1340 Mike Fahey St. Prepare for a cinematic experience! The Durham Museum has joined forces with Film Streams to present a showing of the 2021 documentary, Julia. Prior to the screening, you can engage in a lively discussion with The Durham Museum team about significant local personalities from Omaha’s culinary past, as highlighted in their “Cream of the Crop” exhibit, in addition to insights into “Julia Child: A Recipe for Life.” 402.933.0259
COUPLE SHUFFLE
February 3 at Seymour Smith Park, 6802 Harrison St. Join the annual Couple Shuffle with 2-mile, 5k, and 10k run options. This Valentine-themed run is perfect for everyone! Enjoy fantastic perks like custom shirts, medals, live results, awards, free photos, a costume contest, delicious post-race food, and much more. Gather your loved ones; this event is a must-attend!
FIONA THE FLAMINGO
February 11 at Strauss Performing Arts Center, 6305 S University Dr Rd N. Bring the whole family to join Fiona on her journey of self-acceptance. Experience all of her feelings and colors in this live concert adaptation of the children’s book by Rachael Urrutia Chu. Delight in this narrative with the Omaha Symphony, set to music by Beethoven. Arrive early to enjoy engaging lobby activities! 402.554.3411
OMAHA INTERNATIONAL BOAT SPORTS AND TRAVEL SHOW
February 22–25 at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N 10th St. Experience the 76th boat and travel show with the whole family! Plan your entire expedition with top-tier hunting and fishing outfitters and lodges, or get a firsthand experience with the latest fishing tackle, equipment, and more. See featured exhibitions and explore aisles filled with campers, motorhomes, and RVs while consulting with the experts. 402.341.1500
BABY SHARK’S BIG BROADWAVE TOUR!
February 24 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St. The underwater world of the hit animated series “Baby Shark’s Big Show!” comes to life on stage in an all-new original story. Join Baby Shark and his fishy friends on an adventure to save the Party Puddle Theatre—they will need your help! Enjoy the show’s unforgettable visual effects and thrilling musical twists on classic Baby Shark tunes with the whole family. The show will be oceans of fun! Tickets start at $29.50. 402.661.8501
This article originally appeared in the January/February 2024 issue of Omaha Magazine. To subscribe, click here.
