Wilson begins its 9th season

Season Nine of the Wilson Performing Arts Center is prepared for a great start.

The season kicks off this weekend with the country duo Smithfield at 7 p.m., Aug. 26, at the WPAC. This is a change from the original location.

Mixing the heavily rock influenced background of Trey Smith and the classical country tendency of Jennifer Fiedler, Smithfield creates a contemporary country sound that’s different and compelling. Smithfield has opened for established artists including Eric Paisley, Scotty McCreery, Jana Kramer, Dustin Lynch, Brothers Osborne and Craig Campbell.

Tickets are available at the WPAC box office or by calling 623-3183. Tickets can also be purchased online at wilsonartscenter.org.

The rest of the season includes:

• Community theatre production of “Spitfire Grill” Sept. 14-17;

• Elvis impersonator Joseph Hall Oct. 28;

• “A Christmas Story” Nov. 16-19;

• “The Nutcracker” Dec. 3;

• Billy McGuigan’s new hit, Rock Twist, Jan. 13;

• “On Golden Pond” Feb. 9-11;

• Dueces Wild, Dueling Pianos Feb. 16;

• Accapella group Tonic Sol Fa April 28; and

• Community theatre production of “Annie” June 13-17.

Season tickets are available for purchase at a 15 percent discount off of regular prices.

The WPAC’s educational programs are also gearing up. Strings Unlimited began its season Monday, Aug. 21; dance classes resume on Sept. 5; and private piano lessons and voice lessons are available.

For information, contact the Wilson at 623-3135.

Visitors are also invited to take a moment to stop by and see the artwork on display in the lobby. At this time WPAC is featuring the pieces of Margaret Donohue and Sarah Schaffer. The Wilson will be one of the host sites of the upcoming SW Iowa Art Tour Sept. 16-17.