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Classes Education Featured Theatre Youth

Raue Center School For The Arts Announces Spring 2025 Classes and On Stage Productions

<Crystal Lake>, IL – January 2, 2025 – – Raue Center School For The Arts (RCSA) is thrilled to announce the open enrollment for its Spring 2025 classes and exciting On Stage productions. The new semester will run from February 3 to April 4, 2025, offering a vibrant selection of courses and performance opportunities designed for students of all ages.

 

This spring, students can participate in a variety of classes, including:

 

– **Acting Fundamentals for all Levels**

– **Improv Basics for Adults and Kids**

– **Musical Theater for all Levels**

– **Stand-up Comedy for Ages 18 and Up**

– **Musical Theatre Dance for Ages 7 – 18**

 

In addition to these enriching classes, RCSA is proud to present two exciting On Stage productions for 2025: MTI’s Broadway Junior Revue: *Pure Imagination* and *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition*.

 

*Pure Imagination* is a delightful musical revue designed for students ages 7 to 13, featuring 14 beloved musical numbers from classic shows such as *Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka*, *Annie Jr.*, *Seussical*, *Shrek The Musical*, *Beauty and the Beast*, and *Frozen*. Enrollment is open now and will close on February 26, 2025, with auditions set to begin on March 3, 2025. Performances will take place from April 13 to April 19, 2025.

 

For high school students, *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (High School Edition)* offers a unique opportunity to be part of the magic. Freshmen through seniors can enroll now, with open auditions scheduled for March 19 and 20, 2025. Performances are slated for June 20 to 29, 2025, allowing students to ignite their creativity in a captivating theatrical experience.

 

To learn more about our classes and to enroll, visit http://rauecenter.org/education

 

**Special Offer:** Want to save 25% on classes, camps, and workshops? Become a RaueNOW Family Member and enjoy exclusive savings! More information can be found at https://www.rauecenter.org/become-a-rauenow-member/.

 

**Registration Deadlines:**

– Spring 2025 Classes: January 31, 2025

– *Pure Imagination*: February 26, 2025

– *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child*: March 12, 2025

 

Join us at RCSA for an unforgettable spring semester of creativity, performance, and artistic growth!

 

About Raue Center For The Arts

Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians, and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the nation’s finest examples of restored art and decor. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination. 

 

For additional information, visit rauecenter.org, facebook.com/RaueCenter, and twitter.com/RaueCenter. 

Featured Music Tribute

THINK FLOYD Rocks Raue Center with Tribute to Wish You Were Here

CRYSTAL LAKE, Ill. –November 27, 2024 – Raue Center For The Arts is excited to celebrate the music of Pink Floyd with award-winning tribute, Think Floyd USA, set to rock the Raue at 7 p.m. on Saturday, January 25, 2025, celebrating 20 years as Chicagoland’s longest-running #1 Pink Floyd Tribute!

 

Think Floyd USA, renowned for its stunningly authentic tribute to the legendary Pink Floyd, presents a mesmerizing celebration of the 50th anniversary of Wish You Were Here. This immersive performance takes fans on a sonic journey through one of rock history’s most iconic albums, capturing the original recording’s emotional depth and groundbreaking artistry.

 

Backed by a state-of-the-art light and laser show, Think Floyd USA recreates every nuance of the album’s masterpieces, including “Shine On You Crazy Diamond,” “Have a Cigar,” and the heartfelt title track, Wish You Were Here. Expect soaring guitar solos, soulful vocals, and atmospheric soundscapes that pay homage to Pink Floyd’s timeless genius.

 

As the band also weaves in other classics from Floyd’s catalog, this special anniversary performance becomes a complete experience of nostalgia and transcendence, perfect for longtime fans and new generations alike. Don’t miss this one-night-only tribute to a legendary album that continues to resonate 50 years later.

 

Tickets start at $49  ($34.30 for RaueNOW Members at 30% Off*) and may be purchased online at rauecenter.org or via the Box Office at 815.356.9212 or 26 N. Williams Street in downtown Crystal Lake. Become a RaueNOW Member and get 30% Off Tickets and early access to upcoming shows. 

 

About Raue Center For The Arts

Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable to all. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians, and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the finest examples of restored art and decor in the nation. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination. 

 

For additional information, visit rauecenter.org, facebook.com/RaueCenter, and twitter.com/RaueCenter. 

Featured Music Tribute

Experience the Magic of Elvis with “The King in Concert” Featuring Jimmy Holmes

<Crystal Lake>, IL – November 25, 2024 – Get ready to rock ‘n roll! Join us for an unforgettable night of Elvis Presley music starring award-winning World Champion Elvis Tribute Artist Jimmy Holmes, alongside The Change Of Habit Band, on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 7 PM. The concert will be held at the Raue Center For The Arts in Crystal Lake, IL.

 

This electrifying concert will transport you back to the iconic Las Vegas Hilton, meticulously recreating the energy and excitement of an Elvis live performance. Attendees can expect to hear classic hits from the King of Rock ‘n Roll, alongside some forgotten gems that are sure to delight long-time fans.

 

Jimmy Holmes, a celebrated Elvis Tribute Artist from Demotte, Indiana, has captivated audiences globally with his authentic portrayal of Elvis in the early 1970s. His dedication to detail and dynamic stage presence have earned him accolades, including the prestigious 2023 Images of the King World Championship Trophy in Memphis and the Dream King Trophy, awarded on Elvis’ stage at the Westgate in Las Vegas. 

 

“I consider it an honor and a dream come true to travel the world paying tribute to the greatest entertainer of all time,” says Holmes. Backed by a talented group of musicians who study Elvis’ music down to the note, this concert promises to be an exceptional experience for fans of all ages.

 

Don’t miss your chance to witness the magic and charisma of Elvis Presley through the talent of Jimmy Holmes and The Change Of Habit Band. Grab your tickets now and be part of a night to remember!

 

Tickets start at $49*  ($34.30 for RaueNOW Members*) and may be purchased online at rauecenter.org or via the Box Office at 815.356.9212 or 26 N. Williams Street in downtown Crystal Lake. Become a RaueNOW Member and get 30% Off Tickets and early access to upcoming shows. Restrictions and fees may apply. 

 

About Raue Center For The Arts

Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable to all. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the finest examples of restored art and decor in the nation. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination. 

 

For additional information, visit rauecenter.org, facebook.com/RaueCenter, and twitter.com/RaueCenter. 

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Ballet Classical Dance Featured Music

ENGAGE DANCE THEATRE BRINGS DAZZLING PRODUCTION OF “THE NUTCRACKER” TO RAUE CENTER FOR THE ARTS  

CRYSTAL LAKE, IL – November 20, 2024– Raue Center For The Arts is pleased to welcome Engage Dance Theatre for a co-production as they present “The Nutcracker” on December 21 and 22, 2024 at 1 pm and 5 pm with a special sensory-friendly performance on December 20 at 6 pm. 

 

“From dancing to acting and even tumbling, Engage’s ‘Nutcracker’ has something for everyone! This year, the production includes the addition of several new elements to keep the show fresh and exciting for our audience,” says Courtney Petrocci, Artistic Director of Engage Dance Theatre.  Engage Dance Theatre’s ‘The Nutcracker’ is an annual holiday tradition at Raue Center, featuring professional guest artists formerly with the Milwaukee Ballet & English National Ballet, as well as more professional sets & costumes from the Milwaukee Ballet’s previous Nutcracker.,” says Courtney Petrocci, Artistic Director of Engage Dance Theatre.

 

Join Clara at her annual Christmas Eve party at the Staulbaum house enjoying a night full of celebration, dancing, and magic! As the party comes to a close Clara sneaks downstairs to find her precious new Nutcracker doll and falls asleep dreaming of her wonderful evening. Clara, startled awake by a group of mischievous mice, takes on an exciting journey with Drosselmeyer and her precious Nutcracker.

 

Battling a life-size mouse Queen, slipping & sliding with snowmen & dazzling Snow Queen, and then flying off on an enchanted crystal sleigh to meet the Queen of the Angels, Clara visits the Land of Sweets in an adventure not to be missed this holiday season! 

 

Nutcracker is co-produced by Engage Dance Theatre/Academy and Raue Center For The Arts.

 

Audience members will be moved to leap from their seats to battle the Mouse Queen and her horde of mice, have a snowball fight alongside Clara and a family of snowmen in the Land of Snow and Ice, and, of course, dance along with the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. This beautifully reimagined production of “The Nutcracker” features over 100 performers, and guest artists from renowned dance and theatre companies throughout the United States. 

 

A sensory-friendly performance on December 20th at 6 pm includes a special one-hour presentation with open seating and reduced house size with softer lighting and sound effects. Please call Engage for further details and help answer any questions regarding this inclusive performance.

 

Performance times are 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. on December 21st and 22nd. Tickets are $32 ( $20 for students 17 and under and Seniors). Tickets for the sensory-friendly performance are $25 ($17 for students). Tickets can be purchased online at rauecenter.org or via the Box Office at 815.356.9212 or at 26 N. Williams Street in downtown Crystal Lake. 

 

About Engage Dance Theatre 

Engage Dance Academy is a premiere dance academy owned & operated by Courtney & Marc Petrucci, former professional dancers at the Milwaukee Ballet, bringing professional caliber dance training to McHenry County for dancers ages 18 months to adult. Engage is a triple-track dance studio offering dance classes for all levels; Engage Dance Theatre, a year-round pre-professional dance company for the more serious dancers ages 5-18, training includes partnering classes with professional dancers from the Milwaukee Ballet and three performances a year including a full-length production of The Nutcracker; an award-winning competition team for those dancers looking to compete in Chicago based competitions; and an Open Division for dancers looking for a wide variety of weekly classes ranging from baby ballet, jazz, hip hop, and Aerial Silks & Tumbling. 

 

About Raue Center For The Arts

Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable to all. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians, and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the finest examples of restored art and decor in the nation. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination. 

 

For additional information, visit rauecenter.org, facebook.com/RaueCenter, and twitter.com/RaueCenter. 

 

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Comedy Stand-up

Ana Belaval, Jeanie Doogan, and Chelsea Hood star in a night of holiday stand-up comedy. 

<Crystal Lake>, IL – October 23, 2024 – Get ready to laugh this holiday season at the Jingle Moms Comedy at Raue Center For The Arts in Crystal Lake, IL on Saturday, December 14th at 7:00 PM. This hilarious comedy show will feature an incredible lineup of talented Chicagoland comedians including, Ana Belaval, Jeanie Doogan, and Chelsea Hood. 

 

Hosted by the charismatic John DaCosse, the event will showcase the comedic prowess of Ana Belaval, known for her work on the WGN Morning Show and her engaging stand-up performances in English, Spanish, and “Spanglish.” With nearly thirty years of experience in journalism, Ana brings a unique blend of humor and insight to the stage.

 

Joining her will be the incredibly funny Jeanie Doogan, whose quick wit and knack for storytelling have earned her a well-deserved spot in the comedy spotlight and made her a regular at venues such as  Zanies Comedy Clubs, The Laugh Factory, and The Comedy Bar. She was highlighted in Chicago Parents’ Magazine’s Four of Chicago’s Funniest: Stand-Up Parents.

 

Rounding out the lineup is the delightful Chelsea Hood, a Chicago-based comedian whose blend of Midwestern charm and observational humor has captivated audiences across the country. With appearances on The CW Network and stages at renowned venues such as The Comedy Store and Caroline’s on Broadway, Chelsea is sure to bring the house down with her uproarious comedy.

 

Tickets for this not-to-be-missed event are available at $30, $40, and $45 for non-members, and at a discounted rate of $21, $28, and $31.50 for members. Treat the moms in your life to a well-deserved break from the holiday hustle and bustle with an evening of side-splitting laughter.

 

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to celebrate the magic of motherhood with a night of top-notch comedy.

 

Tickets start at $30*  ($21 for RaueNOW Members*) and may be purchased online at rauecenter.org or via the Box Office at 815.356.9212 or 26 N. Williams Street in downtown Crystal Lake. Become a RaueNOW Member and get 30% Off Tickets and early access to upcoming shows. Restrictions and fees may apply. 

 

About Raue Center For The Arts

Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable to all. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the finest examples of restored art and decor in the nation. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination. 

 

For additional information, visit rauecenter.org, facebook.com/RaueCenter, and twitter.com/RaueCenter. 

 

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Comedy Featured Music Pop Stand-up Tribute

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Raue Center for the Arts!

Looking for an unforgettable way to ring in 2025? Celebrate the New Year at Raue Center for the Arts in Crystal Lake, IL, where you’ll find two incredible shows to choose from. Whether you want to laugh the afternoon away or immerse yourself in the music of a legend, Raue Center has something special for everyone this New Year’s Eve.

Steve Cochran’s New Year’s Eve Comedy Show

When: December 31, 2024, at 2:00 PM
Tickets: $49 / $55 / $59* (Discounts for RaueNOW Members)

For those who prefer an early celebration, Steve Cochran’s New Year’s Eve Comedy Show is the perfect choice! Known for his sharp wit and humor, longtime Chicago radio personality Steve Cochran is bringing his talents to Raue Center, joined by comedians John DaCosse, Jim Flannigan and Tim Benker.

This lively afternoon show offers plenty of laughs and a chance to reflect on the past year with humor. Plus, one lucky audience member will win a TV generously donated by ABT, given away live during the performance. You’ll be home well before midnight, relaxed and ready to toast to 2025.

https://events.rauecenter.org/event/steve-cochrans-nye-comedy-show-2/raue/crystal-lake-illinois/

Elton Rohn – A Tribute to Elton John

When: December 31, 2024, at 7:00 PM
Tickets: $55 / $60 / $65* (Discounts for RaueNOW Members)

If you’d rather dance into the evening, Elton Rohn’s tribute to Elton John is the show for you! North Americas premiere tribute band, hailing from Toronto, has dazzled audiences across the continent. Featuring Ron Camilleri as Elton, the performance perfectly captures the voice, piano skills, and stage presence of Elton John’s legendary 1970s era.

Every note is performed live with no backing tracks, delivering an authentic sound that feels like stepping back in time. Recognized by Elton’s own band members as one of the best tributes in the world, this show is a must-see for fans of the Rocket Man.

https://events.rauecenter.org/event/elton-rohn/raue/crystal-lake-illinois/

Why Raue Center for the Arts?

As a historic gem in downtown Crystal Lake, Raue Center offers a cozy yet grand setting for live entertainment. Whether it’s theatre, comedy or music, the theater’s charm makes every event an extraordinary experience.

Don’t mess with traffic or the hassle of the city! Both shows provide a wonderful opportunity to gather with loved ones or friends to say farewell to 2024 and welcome 2025!

Plan Your New Year’s Eve Now!

Tickets are selling fast for both performances, so don’t wait to get yours. Visit Raue Center’s website to learn more and purchase tickets.

Make your New Year’s Eve magical, memorable, and filled with entertainment at Raue Center for the Arts. Whether you’re laughing along with Steve Cochran or singing along to Elton John’s greatest hits, Raue Center is the place to be this December 31st!

Featured Music Pop Tribute

North America’s Premier Tribute to Elton John, Elton Rohn, Comes Crystal Lake on New Year’s Eve

<Crystal Lake>, IL – 2024– Get ready to ring in the New Year with an unforgettable musical experience as Elton Rohn, North America’s premier tribute to Elton John, comes to Raue Center For The Arts on December 31, 2024, at 7 pm.

 

Elton Rohn has thrilled audiences all over North America, headlining over 400 theaters and festival shows, from Las Vegas to Atlantic City, California, Chicago, Philadelphia, New York, Myrtle Beach, Pennsylvania, across Michigan and upstate New York, and all across Canada. They were the only Elton John tribute asked to play the Elton John convention in Las Vegas where they met the band. Davey Johnstone (Elton’s long-time guitarist and musical director) told the band they were the best 70’s Elton John tribute in the world. Nigel Olsson (Elton’s long-time drummer) said “Elton has a twin”.

 

Ron Camilleri, as Elton, has the vocals, the piano, the look, and the feel of the real Elton John performance. You’ll feel like you are watching the real Elton John. The passion, energy, and those incredible vocals are there. Plus the harmonies. Performed live (no tracks), the band is the closest you’ll get to the real 70’s Elton sound. Even Davey Johnstone thinks so. The band is a regular best-in-show at festivals, and they’ve sold out theaters in major cities. An Elton Rohn show is just like seeing another Elton John. The music is played 100% live. The musicianship is on an elite level. One trip to the band’s website, and you’ll see hundreds of testimonials stating just how great this show is. This is a show not to be missed. The very best of Elton John.

 

According to Paul Russell, Freelance Journalist and contributor to Q107, Legends of Rock, former U.K., “The stunning musicianship and the array of Elton mannerisms put this remarkable tribute at way up there in the big league.” Bob Segarini, Toronto journalist, and artist explains that “Yes, this is a tribute band, but so right on the money you forget you’re not watching the real thing.”

 

Elton Rohn puts on a concert “the next best thing to the real guy” .. a truly outstanding tribute to Captain Fantastic. His band is exceptional, and it’s easy to think when you’re at the show that Elton himself is there.

 

Make your New Year’s Eve unforgettable with Elton Rohn at Raue Center For The Arts. Tickets start at $55  ($38.50  for RaueNOW Members) and may be purchased online at rauecenter.org or via the Box Office at 815.356.9212 or 26 N. Williams Street in downtown Crystal Lake. Become a RaueNOW Member and get 30% Off Tickets and early access to upcoming shows. 

 

About Raue Center For The Arts

Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable to all. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the finest examples of restored art and decor in the nation. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination. 

 

For additional information, visit rauecenter.org, facebook.com/RaueCenter, and twitter.com/RaueCenter. 

Classes Featured News Theatre

Musical Theatre Masterclass with Broadway Star Emily Kristen Morris

<Crystal Lake>, IL – October 9, 2024 – Raue Center School For The Arts is thrilled to announce the upcoming Musical Theatre Masterclass featuring New York-based performer Emily Kristen Morris. This exclusive masterclass will be held on December 9, 2024, for ages 14 to adult and on December 10, 2024, for ages 8 to 13.

 

Participants can join the class either as a singer or as an observer. Singers will get an average of 13 minutes of one-on-one coaching, while observers will watch and get to ask questions. 

 

Participants will have the unique opportunity to learn from Emily Kristen Morris, an NYC-based actor, singer, dancer, and certified vocal instructor with an impressive career. She is currently starring as Elsa in Frozen at the Paramount Theatre and has performed across the nation and internationally. Emily was the Elphaba standby on the Broadway national tour of WICKED, and Bea in the Broadway National Tour of SOMETHING ROTTEN. Morris has also performed as a solo vocalist with symphony orchestras worldwide.

 

The masterclass will focus on Broadway-style singing and acting through song, providing valuable insights into musical theatre vocal technique, audition preparation, and how to make a lasting impression in the industry. Singers will receive one-on-one coaching. All participants can take part in a musical theatre-focused group warm-up and a Q&A session with Emily at the end of the class.

 

“We’re thrilled to welcome Emily for our upcoming Musical Theatre Masterclass,” says Raue Center School For The Arts’ Director of Education, Rob Scharlow. “ How exciting that our students will get to share in her passion and expertise right here in the Crystal Lake area. She’ll provide an unforgettable experience that will ignite our students’ creativity and elevate their skills to new heights.”

 

James Mablin, Raue Center’s resident music director, will serve as the accompanist for the masterclass. Participants enrolling as singers must come prepared with a memorized song cut down to audition length (16 – 32 bars) and provide a clean copy of the sheet music for the accompanist.

 

The masterclass welcomes both singers and observers. Observers will be able to watch the coaching sessions and participate in the Q&A session.

 

Tuition for participating singers is $125* (limited availability.) Observer tickets are priced at $55. Become a RaueNOW Family member and get a 25% off classes, workshops, and masterclasses. The masterclass will be held at the Raue Center For The Arts, located at 26 N Williams Street, Crystal Lake, IL.

 

For more information and to reserve your spot, please visit rauecenter.org/education. Questions? email rcsaeducation@rauecenter.org.

 

Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to learn from a Broadway star and take your musical theatre skills to the next level. Join us for a memorable and enriching Musical Theatre Masterclass with Emily Kristen Morris at the Raue Center.

Country Featured Music News

American country music singer/songwriter and Billboard chart-topper Phil Vassar returns!

CRYSTAL LAKE, Ill. – September 23, 2024 – Raue Center For The Arts proudly welcomes country music billboard chart-topper Phil Vassar on November 16, 2024 at 7 p.m. for his Hits & Heroes tour.

Phil Vassar’s reign of signature songs includes 10 No. 1 singles and 26 Top 40 hits, including Carlene, Just Another Day in Paradise, Six-Pack Summer, When I Love You, and many more. Vassar was racking up hits on the radio long before he even began his own recording career that has seen the release of six albums, two ASCAP Songwriter of the Year trophies, ACM’s Top New Male Vocalist, and sold-out shows across the country.

Vassar’s songwriting career blossomed in the mid-’90s when he landed a publishing contract with EMI and penned hits for Collin Raye (Little Red Rodeo), Alan Jackson (Right on the Money), Tim McGraw (For a Little While), Jo Dee Messina (Bye Bye, Alright), and Blackhawk (Postmarked Birmingham). He signed a record deal of his own with Arista in 1998 and was named ASCAP’s Country Songwriter of the Year in 1999.

Vassar continues to release incisive, soulful lyrics and infectious melodies that capture the heart and soul in the unique and special way that only he can.

Tickets for Phil Vassar start at $55* ($38.50 for members*) Purchase tickets online at rauecenter.org or via the Box Office at 815.356.9212 or 26 N. Williams Street in downtown Crystal Lake. Become a RaueNOW Member and get 30% Off Tickets and early access to upcoming shows.

About Raue Center For The Arts
Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable to all. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the finest examples of restored art and decor in the nation. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination.

For additional information, visit rauecenter.org, facebook.com/RaueCenter, and twitter.com/RaueCenter. 

Country Featured Music

Experience the Magic of Willie Nelson with “Willie & Family Live”

<Crystal Lake>, IL – September 30, 2024 – Raue Center For The Arts in Crystal Lake, IL is thrilled to announce an upcoming show that will transport you to the heart of country music – “Willie & Family Live: Michael Moore’s tribute to Willie Nelson.” Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 7 pm.

 

This 90-minute show is a heartfelt homage to the legendary outlaw of country music, Willie Nelson. Michael Moore, born and raised in McKinney, Texas, brings the soulful twang of Willie Nelson to life through his exceptional talent. From the upbeat rhythm of “Whiskey River” to the classic tales of “Good Hearted Woman” and “Mamas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys,” this show captures the essence of Willie’s timeless contributions to the genre.

 

What sets Michael Moore apart is not only his vocal prowess but also his accomplished guitar skills, faithfully recreating every nuance of Willie’s live performances. Through years of dedicated study and countless renditions of “Whiskey River,” Moore’s ability to channel the spirit of the Red-Headed Stranger is widely regarded as the best in the world.

“Willie & Family Live” is more than just a tribute—it’s an immersive experience that delves into the life and stories behind the songs. The stage is adorned with visuals reminiscent of Willie Nelson’s iconic performances, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that transports fans back in time.

 

So, grab your cowboy boots, put on your favorite hat, and join us for an evening of country coolness in “Willie & Family Live: A Tribute Spectacular.” It’s not just a show; it’s a heartfelt celebration of the Red-Headed Stranger and his indelible mark on the world of country music.

 

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable night. Tickets are selling fast, so secure yours today at [Ticket Purchase Link].

We look forward to seeing you there!

 

Tickets start at $30*  ($21 for RaueNOW Members*) and may be purchased online at rauecenter.org or via the Box Office at 815.356.9212 or 26 N. Williams Street in downtown Crystal Lake. Become a RaueNOW Member and get 30% Off Tickets and early access to upcoming shows. 

 

About Raue Center For The Arts

Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable to all. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians, and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the finest examples of restored art and decor in the nation. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination.

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