Hettenhausen Center for the Arts

06/19/2026

Today we recognize Juneteenth, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States and honoring the ongoing pursuit of freedom, equality, and opportunity for all.

The Hett is closed today in observance of the holiday.

06/17/2026

Our 2026–2027 season is packed with unforgettable performances, inspiring speakers, and can't-miss events.

What are you most excited to see this season? Let us know in the comments! 👇

06/04/2026

Special Announcement! McKendree Bands will be hosting composer, educator, and performer - Mr. JaRod Hall - on Tuesday, November 17. Mr. Hall, Dr. Moder-Bell, and Dr. Bell will conduct both a high school honor band and a junior high school honor band this day (rehearsals starting mid-morning with a 7:00 p.m. concert). Mr. Hall will conduct his compositions with our honor bands. https://www.jarodhallmusic.com/
Directors: stay tuned for information about nominations and schedule of events! Cheers!

05/28/2026

And there you have it — the full 2026–2027 season at the Hett!

From concerts, theatre, and family entertainment to distinguished speakers, arts education, lectures, and student performances, we’re thrilled to bring another exciting year of live experiences to our campus and community.

Save this post, tag a friend, and start planning your season with us!

✨ Friends of the Hett ticket sales begin August 3 at noon.
🎟️ General public ticket sales begin August 10 at noon.

View the complete season anytime at theHett.com.

05/28/2026

We’re also excited to unveil this year’s Arts Education programming, Wayne E. Lanter Lecture Series presenter, and productions from McKendree Student Theatre — experiences that inspire creativity, spark conversation, and bring our campus and community together throughout the year.

From engaging educational opportunities and thought-provoking lectures to outstanding student performances, these programs are an essential part of what makes the Hett special.

Explore another exciting part of our 2026–2027 season!

05/28/2026

🚨 McKendree Theatre Season Announcement 🚨
Coming Spring 2027

Join us this spring for One Stoplight Town — a heartfelt and humorous look at small-town life and the people who call it home. 🚦

Friday, February 26, 2027 @ 7:30 PM
Saturday, February 27, 2027 @ 7:30 PM
Sunday, February 28, 2027 @ 2:30 PM

In a town so small you could drive through without noticing, extraordinary stories unfold every day. One Stoplight Town follows a cast of unforgettable characters as they navigate love, family, friendship, and change. Filled with warmth, humor, and heart, this touching production reminds us that even the quietest places are full of meaningful moments and people worth knowing.

05/28/2026

🚨 McKendree Theatre Season Announcement 🚨
Coming Fall 2026

Get ready for mystery, mayhem, and nonstop laughs this fall with The 39 Steps! 🎭🔎

Friday, November 6, 2026 @ 7:30 PM
Saturday, November 7, 2026 @ 7:30 PM
Sunday, November 8, 2026 @ 2:30 PM

Mix a Hitchcock-style spy thriller with outrageous comedy and inventive stagecraft, and you get The 39 Steps! When an ordinary man becomes tangled in a dangerous conspiracy after meeting a mysterious woman claiming to be a spy, he suddenly finds himself pursued across the country by a shadowy organization known only as “The 39 Steps.” Packed with fast-paced action, quick costume changes, and larger-than-life characters, this hilarious theatrical adventure is an unforgettable night (or afternoon!) at the theatre.

05/28/2026

One season announcement wasn’t enough…

We’re thrilled to unveil our 2026–2027 Distinguished Speaker Series featuring an exciting lineup of guests with stories, insights, and experiences that have inspired audiences around the world — including actor and fan favorite Sean Astin!

From beloved film and television icons to innovative thinkers and accomplished leaders, this season’s speaker series offers unforgettable opportunities to hear directly from remarkable voices across entertainment, science, business, and beyond.

Take a look at this year’s speakers and let us know which event you’re most excited to attend!

05/28/2026