Author: Julianna Hamblin

Summer Workshop for kids!

The Summer Kidz Workshop is now taking applicants!

SIGN UP HERE!

We are excited to announce our upcoming summer workshop! We are now accepting applications for students ages 8 to 17. Applications are due by Monday June 30, 2025.

The dates are Monday-Thursday July 14-17 and July 21-24 from 1pm-4pm. We will provide snacks and water, but it is always a good idea to have your child bring their own water bottle and snacks if they prefer something in particular or have allergies.
The cost of the workshop is $25 per child. There are several scholarships available based on need. Please email us at in**@**************il.org if you feel you are in need of a scholarship.

This workshop will be a combination of mini workshops for improv, acting, set building, lighting design, and much more! They will be hosted by qualified and experienced adults and Theatre students in high school and college.

Please make plans to attend the mandatory parent/guardian meeting on Monday July 7 at 5:30pm to get all the info. Please bring your registered child(ren) so we can meet them! But don’t forget to register first!

Auditions: Saturday July 26 and Sunday July 27 at 6:00pm for The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee!

Auditions! Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27 at 6:00PM for The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee!

Auditions for The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee will be held at The Historic 1929 Lyric Theater. Performance dates are September 26-28 and October 3-5, 2025. Ages 16 and up ONLY. 

Please register by clicking HERE to audition!

The Requirements

  • Only those auditioning may be present, unless the auditioner is a minor
  • Ages 16 and up ONLY.
  • Please prepare ONE 30 second to 1 minute portion of a song to sing that showcases your singing ability. We recommend songs from musical theatre, but anything that shows off your voice is acceptable. (You will be singing it a capella.) 
  • Please prepare a 1-2 minute comedic monologue (memorized if possible, but not required). If you are unable to find a monologue, directors will have a selection from which you may choose.
  • Sides for cold reads will be chosen by the director.
  • Auditions will consist of singing your song, reading your monologue, and cold reads.

The Story

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee will be performed Live at the Lyric September 26-27 and October 3-4, 2025 at 7:00PM, Sunday September 28 and October 5, 2025 at 2:00PM.

Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has charmed audiences across the country with its effortless wit and humor. Featuring a fast-paced, wildly funny and touching book by Rachel Sheinkin and a truly fresh and vibrant score by William Finn, this bee is one unforgettable experience.

An eclectic group of six mid-pubescents vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime. While candidly disclosing hilarious and touching stories from their home lives, the tweens spell their way through a series of (potentially made-up) words, hoping never to hear the soul-crushing, pout-inducing, life un-affirming “ding” of the bell that signals a spelling mistake. Six spellers enter; one speller leaves a champion! At least the losers get a juice box.

A riotous ride, complete with audience participation, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a delightful den of comedic genius. The small cast and unit set make this a perfect option for high schools or community theatres. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a fast-paced crowd pleaser and an instant theatre patron favorite.

Please register to audition at our ticketing page!

Thank you for supporting the Arts and good luck!

Mary Poppins, August 1–2 & 8–9 at 7pm, August 3 & 10 at 2pm! #LiveAtTheLyric!

The Ozark Arts Council Presents:

Mary Poppins!

Friday–Saturday, August 1–2 & 8–9, 7:00PM
Sunday, August 3 & 10, 2:00PM

 

The Ozark Arts Council present Disney’s Mary Poppins performed at the Historic 1929 Lyric Theater August 1–2 and August 8–9 at 7:00PM, August 3 and 10 at 2:00PM. Tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors (55+) and students, and $11 for children (11 and under), when bought in advance; prices rise $3 if purchased at the door—$18 for adults, $16 for seniors and students, and $14 for children. Tickets are on sale now!

One of the most popular Disney movies of all time is capturing hearts in a whole new way: as a practically perfect musical! Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the classic Walt Disney film, Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s Mary Poppins delighted Broadway audiences for over 2,500 performances and received nominations for nine Olivier and seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

The jack-of-all trades, Bert, introduces us to England in 1910 and the troubled Banks family. Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family members how to value each other again. Mary Poppins takes the children on many magical and memorable adventures, but Jane and Michael aren’t the only ones upon whom she has a profound effect. Even grown-ups can learn a lesson or two from the nanny who advises that “Anything can happen if you let it.”

Mary Poppins is an enchanting mixture of irresistible story, unforgettable songs, breathtaking dance numbers and astonishing stagecraft. This show is a perfect opportunity to showcase a strong, iconic female performer, as well as unique special effects and illusions.

Join us at the Lyric for Mary Poppins, August 1–2 and August 8–9 at 7:00PM, August 3 and 10 at 2:00PM. Tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors (55+) and students, and $11 for children (11 and under), when bought in advance; prices rise $3 if purchased at the door—$18 for adults, $16 for seniors and students, and $14 for children. #LiveAtTheLyric.

If our ticketing area doesn’t appear below,
please tap/click here to Get Tickets!

CREEKSIDE AMP’S FIRST CONCERT – TYLER FARR on Friday June 27, 2025!

Tyler Farr in Concert at Creekside Amp

Friday June 27 at 6:00PM

Join Explore Harrison for the first concert at Creekside!
Tickets are on sale now!

Tyler Farr will be the main act, with opening guests: Chris Luneau and the White Buffalo, and Sadie Bass!

Please Note: This concert will be held at the new Creekside Community Center Amp, located at 515 S. Spring Street.

Guests with Disabilities: We will be providing shuttle service to your chosen seating area!

Gates open at 5pm.

Chris Luneau and the White Buffalo take the stage at 6pm, Sadie Bass at 7pm, and Tyler Farr at 8pm

Tyler Farr will perform at the Creekside Amp on June 27 at 6:00PM. Tickets are on sale now!

Sponsorship Opportunity – Mary Poppins!

The Ozark Arts Council Presents…a Sponsorship Opportunity for: Mary Poppins!

Mary Poppins will be performed LIVE Friday–Saturday, August 1–2 & 8–9, 7:00PM
Sunday, August 3 & 10, 2:00PM, and we are wanting YOU to be a sponsor!

We at the Lyric Theater/Ozark Arts Council would like to offer you/your business an opportunity to sponsor our summer musical, Mary Poppins!

The levels of sponsorship are below, and of course we are also open to giving discounts for Lyric tickets with a receipt from one of your businesses and vice versa.

If you’re interested, need more information, have questions or perhaps you have an even better idea, please email us at in**@**************il.org. If you know anyone who might be interested, please feel free to let them know, too!

Levels of sponsorship:

$100-499: 2 free tickets to any performance of Mary Poppins, playbill recognition, social media recognition
$500-999: 2 free tickets to any performance of Mary Poppins, $50 concessions credit, playbill recognition, social medial recognition
$1000-1,999: 2 free tickets to any performance of Mary Poppins, $50 concessions credit, $50 bar credit, playbill recognition, social media recognition
$2000-4,999: 4 free tickets to any performance of Mary Poppins, name or business name on-screen before the performance, name or business name in playbill, social media, newspaper, and electronic billboard shoutouts in weeks leading up to the play, $100 concessions credit, $100 bar credit
$5000-9,999: 12 free tickets to any performance of Mary Poppins, open bar for you and guests, name or business name on-screen before the performance, name or business name in playbill, social media, newspaper, and electronic billboard shoutouts in weeks leading up to the play
$10,000 and up: private preview performance of Mary Poppins for you and any guests, open bar for you and guest, name or business name on-screen before the performance, name or business name in playbill, social media, newspaper, and electronic billboard shoutouts in weeks leading up to the play

Continue reading Sponsorship Opportunity – Mary Poppins!

Northark Drama Presents: Spotlights — Fri–Sat Apr 25–26, 2025 @ 7:00 — #LiveAtTheLyric!

Student-Written One Acts and Monologues:
Spotlights
Friday–Saturday, Apr. 25–26, 2025 at 7:00PM 

Spotlights of Life, a Northark Drama production, will be performed at Harrison’s historic Lyric Theater Friday and Saturday, April 25–26, at 7:00pm. FREE tickets with donation of food or toiletries for Pete’s Pantry!

A list of needed items: Basic toiletries (deodorant, shampoo, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products, wash cloths, toiletry bags); Toilet paper; Ramen noodles; Granola bars; Ready meals (microwavable Mac and cheese, etc.); spring meat (spam, weenies, etc.), Packaged crackers.

This spring, live at the historic Lyric Theater on the downtown Harrison, Arkansas, come see student-written scenes and monologues from NorthArk Drama professor Michael Mahoney’s Drama I and II classes! Join us for a captivating evening showcasing the talent of NorthArk students through powerful, original monologues and short scenes that capture the many facets of life.

Come and spend your time with this wonderful cast as they spend their time with us and help donate to a terrific cause!

Please Note: This production contains adult language.

Auditions: Saturday April 12 at 10:00am and Sunday April 13 at 2:00pm for Mary Poppins!

 

Auditions! Saturday, April 12 at 10AM and Sunday, April 13 at 2:00PM for Mary Poppins!

Auditions for Mary Poppins will be held at The Historic 1929 Lyric Theater. Performance dates are August 1-3 and August 8-10, 2025. Ages 10 and up ONLY. 

Please register to audition at our ticketing page to receive more information!

The Requirements

  • Only those auditioning may be present, unless the auditioner is a minor
  • Ages 10 and up ONLY.
  • Please prepare TWO songs to sing: ONE 30 second to 1 minute song from Mary Poppins AND ONE 30 second to 1 minute completely unrelated song that is contrasting and shows your vocal range and ability. (You will be singing it a capella.) 
  • Sides for cold reads will be chosen by the director.
  • Auditions will consist of singing both songs and then cold reads.

The Story

Mary Poppins will be performed Live at the Lyric August 1-2, 8-9, 2025 at 7:00PM, Sunday August 3, 2025 at 2:00PM, and Sunday August 10, 2025 at 2:00PM.

In Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s Mary Poppins, everyone’s favorite practically perfect nanny takes the stage in this Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical adventure.
 

One of the most popular Disney movies of all time is capturing hearts in a whole new way: as a practically perfect musical! Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the classic Walt Disney film, Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s Mary Poppins delighted Broadway audiences for over 2,500 performances and received nominations for nine Olivier and seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

The jack-of-all trades, Bert, introduces us to England in 1910 and the troubled Banks family. Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family members how to value each other again. Mary Poppins takes the children on many magical and memorable adventures, but Jane and Michael aren’t the only ones upon whom she has a profound effect. Even grown-ups can learn a lesson or two from the nanny who advises that “Anything can happen if you let it.”

Mary Poppins is an enchanting mixture of irresistible story, unforgettable songs, breathtaking dance numbers and astonishing stagecraft.

Please register to audition at our ticketing page to receive more information!

Thank you for supporting the Arts and good luck!

5 Minute Opener Opportunity!

Calling all area comedians!

Comedians one and all! Enter our comedy jam to audition for Comedian Josh Pray’s upcoming stand-up comedy show at the Lyric Theater! ONLY 15 ENTRIES ALLOWED – register here.

Josh lives in Florida, so we will be recording each comedian and sending the recordings for him to decide who will be his local opener. 

The opener will be chosen by Josh and will be given a 15 minute set before Josh’s show on April 12 at 7:00pm at the Lyric Theater in Harrison, AR.

Entry Rules:

Doors will open at 6:15pm. Comedians must be there by 5:30 for sound check.

Entry is FREE.

Material must be no longer than 5 minutes. The Emcee will flash a light when a minute is left in your set.

Content Warning: No content that is divisive. Josh’s comedy is a bit on the adult side, and he typically has 18+ crowds, so please be mindful of this. 

There are only 15 entries allowed, please register here!

This event is open and free to the public. Our upstairs bar will open at 6:15pm. Please feel free to invite your friends and try out your material!

Thank you for supporting the Arts and good luck!

An Evening with The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra Saturday June 7, 2025! #LiveAtTheLyric!

The World Famous
Glenn Miller Orchestra!
Saturday June 7 at 7:00PM

The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra will be swinging back into the historic Lyric Theater on the Harrison, Arkansas square at 7:00PM on June 7, 2025! After an initial pre-sale period to Ozark Arts Council members, ticket sales are now open to the public.

(To be eligible for our ticket pre-sales—and to avoid ticket company processing and credit card fees—join the OAC today!)

The first Glenn Miller Orchestra did not make it at all. It was a total and absolute economic failure. But Glenn knew what he wanted, held to that dedication and relentlessly worked to succeed. He launched his second band–the one that lives on today–in March of 1938. The Glenn Miller Orchestra has been a “hit” ever since.

The legendary Glenn Miller was one of the most successful of all dance bandleaders back in the Swing Era of the 1930’s and 40’s. A matchless string of hit records, the constant impact of radio broadcasts and the drawing power at theatres, hotels and dance pavilion, built and sustained the momentum of popularity.

Glenn disbanded his musical organization in 1942 at the height of its popularity to volunteer for the Army. There, he organized and led the famous Glenn Miller Army Air Force Band. It went to Europe to entertain servicemen performing numerous live and radio shows. On December 15, 1944, Major Miller took off in a single engine plane from Europe to precede his band to France, disappearing over the English Channel, never to be seen again. The army declared him officially dead a year later.

With the release of the major motion movie “The Glenn Miller Story” featuring Jimmy Stewart and June Allyson in 1954, interest and popular demand led the Miller Estate to authorize the formation of the present Glenn Miller Orchestra. On June 6, 1956, and under the direction of drummer Ray McKinley who had become the unofficial leader of the Army Air Force Band after Glenn’s disappearance, the reformed Glenn Miller Orchestra performed its first concert and has been on the road ever since. Other leaders have followed Ray including clarinetists Buddy DeFranco and Peanuts Hucko, trombonists Buddy Morrow, Jimmy Henderson, Larry O’Brien and Gary Tole, tenor saxophonist Dick Gerhart, and vocalist Nick Hilscher. Since January 2022, after five years with the band, tenor saxophonist Eric Stabnau became the leader.

Today, the 18 member ensemble continues to play many of the original Miller arrangements both from the civilian band and the AAFB libraries. Additionally, it also plays some more modern selections arranged and performed in the Miller style and sound. The Glenn Miller Orchestra is owned and operated by Glenn Miller Productions, Inc., under license from the Miller Estate. Glenn Miller Productions, Inc., has the sole and exclusive right to use the Glenn Miller Orchestra name—so, this is not a “tribute to the Glenn Miller Orchestra,” but the orchestra that is in official and unbroken succession to the original.

The big-band business today requires almost constant travel as a result of an arduous schedule of one-night stands. The Glenn Miller Orchestra is “on the road” longer and more continuously than any other in the whole world, having celebrated its 60th year anniversary on June 6. It covers over a hundred thousand miles a year, working most every night for 48 weeks out of every 52-nearly 300 playing dates, performing for an “in person” audience that adds up to more than a half million people annually.

Just as it was in Glenn’s day, the Glenn Miller Orchestra today is still the most sought after big band in the world, and this year, The Lyric is the place to see them! With the overwhelming response to the special appearance of The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra at the Lyric in 2016, the band has loved returning to Harrison and is doing so again at 7:00PM on Saturday June 7!
 

The Glenn Miller Orchestra will perform #LiveAtTheLyric on Saturday June 7 at 7:00PM. Tickets are on sale now!

Stand-Up Comedy: Josh Pray #LiveAtTheLyric – April 12, 2025 at 7:00pm

The Ozark Arts Council Presents:
Comedian Josh Pray!

SOLD OUT

Saturday April 12 at 7:00PM

Josh Pray will perform Live at the Lyric Saturday April 12 at 7:00pm.

With Josh Pray, ‘Stand-Up’ is more than just a form of comedy: Josh is a true ‘stand-up guy’. His description on Facebook resonates with everyone who’s seen him: “Probably the most positive-inclusive-insightful-plus size comedian, model and person on the internet!” His commitment on his website is forthright and to the point: “As a passionate, creative professional, I believe in putting my skills and innovation at the forefront of my work for everyone I work with to experience. From creating my own content to working with brands to synthesize unique campaigns that harness my social media presence, I instill liveliness into everything I do.

“I have had the pleasure of visiting many states from my homeland of America, as well as making appearances abroad. I cherish every single experience and look forward to more.”

Comedian Vinnie Ward will be joining Josh as an opener, as will a yet-to-be-determined local comedian. Details soon!

And we look forward to having Josh with us—and with you! Join us at the Historic 1929 Lyric Theater on Saturday April 12 at 7:00pm to see comedian Josh Pray!


Many thanks to Jeff Crockett of Crockett Outdoor Media and Crockett Properties for his help in making this event come to life!

OAC Ticketing Link