Minden Opera House Announces 25th Season
(Minden, Nebraska) As they approach their 25th anniversary in 2025, the Minden Opera House is gearing up to present an exhilarating lineup of events to celebrate this historic milestone. “This is a monumental season and we are excited to be offering what we feel are some monumental events,” says Executive Director Marcy Brandt.
The season kicks off with The Phil Collins Experience – a Phil Collins tribute band – on Saturday, September 14 at 7:30 pm. Tickets $35. Phil Collins is one of only three recording artists, along with Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson, who have sold over 100 million records worldwide both as solo artists and separately as principal members of a band. He has received eight Grammy Awards, six Brit Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, one Academy Award, and a Disney Legend Award. The role of Phil Collins is performed to perfection by KC Magazine’s BEST MALE VOCALIST Terry Adams Jr., backed by his world class band. Immerse yourself in the world of Phil Collins and Genesis with their greatest hits like: “In The Air Tonight “, “Sussudio”, “Invisible Touch”, “That’s All”, and many more.
The remainder of the season includes performances by America’s Got Talent finalist Catapult, Nebraska artist Daniel Christian, the annual Polar Express Family Event, a dinner and wine pairing event and a 25th Anniversary celebration. See details below.
NOVEMBER 7 – Catapult 7:00 pm Adults $35 Students $20
Catapult is a Shadow Illusion Performance Company, launched into the limelight and into the homes of millions of people around the world as finalists on America’s Got Talent. Catapult’s shows are an amalgamation of dance, theatre, acrobatics, illusion and storytelling. Their stunning visuals coupled with whimsy, heart and athleticism create a spellbinding show perfect for all ages.
DECEMBER 6 – Daniel Christian Band 7:30 pm Tickets $20
Award-Winning Singer-Songwriter Daniel Christian blends a pop/rock sensibility with country/folk roots. He weaves hooky, stick-in-your-head melodies backed by big harmonies with thought-provoking lyrical content. The result is a style of art and entertainment which, according to fans, “sounds like cinnamon rolls taste!” Backed by the Daniel Christian Band, Daniel brings Christmas favorites and originals to the Christmas City.
DECEMBER 14 – Polar Express Family Event 6:00 pm Adults $8 / Ages 8 & under $3
The annual event begins with the reading of the “Polar Express” book by a professional storyteller. At the conclusion of the storytelling, cookies & hot chocolate are served (along with a special appearance by Santa Claus) with the feature film following the refreshments. The event is geared toward families with children ages 4th grade and under. Children are welcome to bring their pillows and come dressed in their pajamas for this evening of Christmas magic. An earlier show might be added.
FEBRUARY 15 – Wine & Dine Pairing Dinner 7:00 pm Tickets $50
The evening will feature a four-course meal featuring wine or cocktail pairings for each course with light entertainment. More details coming soon.
MAY 23 & 24 – 25th Anniversary Weekend
Celebrating 25 years since our grand re-opening in 2025, the Minden Opera House is planning a fun weekend of festivities on Friday evening and during the day on Saturday, including entertainment by Josh Routh/ Oh My Gosh Josh. Josh has mass appeal as a magician, comedian, sword swallower, juggling and other circus skills. More details coming soon.
Originally constructed in 1891, the Opera House building housed three separate businesses on its first floor, each with street-level access until its renovation in 1997. The Kearney County Community Foundation acquired the building that year through generous bequests from the Estates of Vane and Alta Nied and Nels & Lucille Winther. Opting for a complete overhaul, the Foundation undertook a complete renovation, introducing a stunning stairway, Gift Shop, Art Gallery, and meeting rooms. The grand opening of the renovated Minden Opera House took place over Memorial Day weekend in 2000, celebrating its return to being a vibrant hub for the arts and events in South Central Nebraska.
The Nebraska Arts Council, a state agency, has supported this season through its matching grants program funded by the Nebraska Legislature, the National Endowment for the Arts and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Visit artscouncilnebraska.org for information on how the Nebraska Arts Council can assist your organization, or how you can support the Nebraska Cultural Endowment.