Each June, the Walla Walla Chamber Music Festival presents over 30 events around the Walla Walla Valley. The second Festival Series Concert will take place at Gesa Power House Theatre on Saturday, June 16 at 7:30 p.m.

Tonight we feature music of Robert Schumann, György Kurtág, Josh Burrel and Andrew Norman.

Our second Festival Series performance invites the clarinet to the fore with works old and new. Robert Schumann, ever given to flights of fantasy, composed his Märchenerzählungen, Op.132 near the end of his compositional life. Loosely translated as “Fairy Tales,” this work for piano, viola and clarinet does not tell any specific fairy tale but rather evokes certain tropes such as sparkling elven mischief, regal pomp and the lyricism of loneliness. György Kurtág provides modernist counterpoint to Schumann’s foray into the magical with his Hommage à Robert Schumann for the same instrumentation. Also on the program are works by 21st-century composers Josh Burrel and Andrew Norman. Burrel, in his Andooni for clarinet quintet, mourns the Armenian genocide of 1915-1923 and Norman, in his Gran Turismo for eight violins, imagines an Italian baroque ensemble revving its engines at the speed of an F1 race car. Though each piece inhabits its own unique sphere, each work shares an essential component of storytelling that looks both to the past and the future.

Doors open at 6:30 PM.

General Admission: $20; Family Ticket: $45 (admits two adults and up to four children); Student Ticket: $8 (under 22 with valid student ID). For more information and tickets, visit www.wwcmf.org.

About the Walla Walla Chamber Music Festival:
Founded in 2007 by Artistic Director Timothy Christie, the Walla Walla Chamber Music Festival (WWCMF) is a non-profit organization committed to making chamber music accessible to all. In addition to tickets events, WWCMF presents extensive free children’s programming, targeted outreach events, and daily free open rehearsals throughout the Walla Walla community.

Gesa Power House Theatre presents a screening of the new documentary film McKellen: Playing the Part on Tuesday, June 19 at 7:00 p.m.

★★★★ “An intimate, enthralling look at the life of a legend.”
– Time Out

Constructed from 14-hours of interviews, McKellen: Playing the Part uncovers the remarkable story of actor Sir Ian McKellen. From his upbringing living through the Second World War, working through repertory and West End theater becoming a pioneering stage star, coming out and being a leader in the campaign for equality, to his mainstream film breakouts as Magneto and Gandalf. His work and influence transcends generations, celebrated here in this fully authorized insight.

McKellen: Playing the Part features unprecedented access to private photo albums, a wealth of never-before-seen archive material, including diaries written when he was 12, and exclusive behind the scenes of theater shows and films, alongside his personal thoughts on a life long lived.

This film has a runtime of 96 minutes. Outside food and beverages are not allowed. Beer, wine, and popcorn will be available for purchase, and may be taken into the theater.

Reserved seating tickets ($15 Adults; $10 Students) are available online or by calling the box office at 509-529-6500. For group ticket sales, please call 509-876-1662. 

Each June, the Walla Walla Chamber Music Festival presents over 30 events around the Walla Walla Valley. The third Festival Series Concert will take place at Gesa Power House Theatre on Saturday, June 23 at 7:30 p.m.

Tonight we feature music by Amy Beach, Joan Tower, Marion Bauer and Gustav Mahler.

Gustav Mahler is known as the composer of ten-ish unwieldy Symphonies, numerous song cycles, and as one of the most polarizing musical figures of the late 19th century. Noticeably absent from his compositional output are any substantive chamber works. There is one exception, however, that of a single movement for piano quartet in A minor. We pair Mahler’s single movement with music by three American composers, Amy Beach, Marion Bauer and Joan Tower.

Originally hailing from Walla Walla (woo-hoo!), Marion Bauer made her mark in New York City as a composer, author and professor, influencing such luminaries as Aaron Copland and Milton Babbitt. She was also the first in a long line of Americans to study with Nadia Boulanger in Paris. Her three-movement Sonata for Viola and Piano, Op. 22, is required listening for any self-respecting music-loving resident or visitor to the Walla Walla Valley.

Rounding out the program are two works for flute and string quartet, the Theme and Variations, Op. 80, by Amy Beach and Rising, by Joan Tower (2009).

Doors open at 6:30 PM.

General Admission: $20; Family Ticket: $45 (admits two adults and up to four children); Student Ticket: $8 (under 22 with valid student ID). For more information and tickets, visit www.wwcmf.org.

About the Walla Walla Chamber Music Festival:
Founded in 2007 by Artistic Director Timothy Christie, the Walla Walla Chamber Music Festival (WWCMF) is a non-profit organization committed to making chamber music accessible to all. In addition to tickets events, WWCMF presents extensive free children’s programming, targeted outreach events, and daily free open rehearsals throughout the Walla Walla community.

Each June, the Walla Walla Chamber Music Festival presents over 30 events around the Walla Walla Valley. The fourth Festival Series Concert will take place at Gesa Power House Theatre on Saturday, June 30 at 7:30 p.m.

Tonight we feature Clara Schumann’s Three Romances for violin and piano, the Popper Requiem in F Sharp minor, Op. 66 for 3 cellos and the Brahms B Flat Sextet, Op. 18.

Festival Series IV brings the 2018 Season to a close with works by Clara Schumann, David Popper and Johannes Brahms. The Popper Requiem in F Sharp minor, Op. 66, is not a vocal work. However, it capitalizes on the vocal qualities of three cellos in perfect harmony. Balancing the valedictory gravitas of the Popper are the Three Romances of Clara Schumann and the B Flat Sextet, Op. 18 of Johannes Brahms. If the Clarinet Quintet in B minor, Op. 115, represents Autumn, then surely the B Flat Sextet represents Spring. Additional work, TBD. Celebrate the conclusion of the 2018 season in grand melodic style.

Doors open at 6:30 PM.

General Admission: $20; Family Ticket: $45 (admits two adults and up to four children); Student Ticket: $8 (under 22 with valid student ID). For more information and tickets, visit www.wwcmf.org.

About the Walla Walla Chamber Music Festival:
Founded in 2007 by Artistic Director Timothy Christie, the Walla Walla Chamber Music Festival (WWCMF) is a non-profit organization committed to making chamber music accessible to all. In addition to tickets events, WWCMF presents extensive free children’s programming, targeted outreach events, and daily free open rehearsals throughout the Walla Walla community.

Following its successful launch in 2017, the Walla Walla Movie Crush returns to the Gesa Power House Theatre July 6-8, 2018 for the second annual celebration of the best of American short cinema.

This year’s festival will screen 129 films (click here for the complete lineup), including 15 World Premieres, over the course of 3 days, plus will include a new art film installation and a revamped Awards Ceremony on Sunday night.

Short films will be shown in one-hour, themed blocks:

Friday, July 6 - 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Saturday, July 7 - noon-5:00 p.m. and 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Sunday, July 8 - noon-5:00 p.m. and 7:00-9:00 p.m.

Content advisory: all content is unrated and may not be suitable for younger viewers.

The Walla Walla Movie Crush receives support from The City of Walla Walla, Washington FilmWorks, and Gesa Power House Theatre. Proceeds from the Walla Walla Movie Crush benefit The Red Badge Project.

Tickets to the 2nd Annual Walla Walla Movie Crush are available at: www.wallawallamoviecrush.com.

Gesa Power House Theatre presents Good Co - an electro swing band - in concert on Friday, July 13 at 7:00 p.m.

Six-piece band Good Co is the United States' first live Electro Swing Band. Electro Swing combines the era of illicit booze, jitterbugging flappers, and underground speakeasies with the funky beats and the electric sound of today's dance music - pounding dance beats and gypsy jazz guitar riffs. Samples from the past are turned on their heads along with a live horn section creating the best sounding dance party this side of the 1920s. At Good Co performances, beatboxing harmonica jams, onstage dance parties, and crowd sing-alongs may spontaneously break out.

Reserved seating tickets (Adults $35-$30; $20 Students) are available online or by calling the box office at 509-529-6500. For group ticket sales, please call 509-876-1662. Outside food and beverages are not allowed. Beer and wine will be available for purchase, and may be taken into the theater.

Walla Walla Valley Disability Network presents a screening of the recent documentary film "I'll Push You" on Saturday, September 8 at 7:00 p.m. at Gesa Power House Theatre. The stars of the film, Justin Skeesuck and Patrick Gray, will be in attendance.

"I’ll Push You" is a feature-length documentary about the struggles during a 35-day, 500-mile wheelchair journey across mountains, deserts, hills, and valleys and features perspectives from family and friends of Justin and Patrick.

Kate & The Crocodiles will perform a concert at Gesa Power House Theatre on Saturday, September 15 at 7:00 p.m. Proceeds will benefit The Health Center.  Kate & The Crocodiles are a Portland-based quartet who perform stunning indie rock originals and covers, early jazz and jazz standards, reinventions of ‘70s and ’80s rock as ballads,…

There is only one classic Batman and his name is Adam West. Growing up on a wheat ranch just outside of town, Adam West was always proud of his beginnings in Walla Walla. Come celebrate the legacy of our hometown hero with a FREE screening of the critically-acclaimed documentary "Starring Adam West" at 6:30 p.m. at Gesa Power House Theatre. This free film screening is part of the 2nd Annual Adam West Day celebration.

At age 19, Kevin Hines attempted to take his life by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge. Seventeen years later, he still struggles with many of the same symptoms that led him to attempt to take his life, but he is on a mission to use his story to help others stay alive. Kevin has also been one of the key catalysts in helping end a nearly 80-year long fight to construct suicide prevention net on the iconic San Francisco bridge. In this documentary film, Kevin takes a journey to better understand the ripple effects his suicide attempt had on his family, friends, and the first responders who helped save him.

Every Brilliant Thing is a one-actor play, adapted by playwright Duncan McMillan from his own short story “Sleeve Notes”. British comedian Jonny Donahue, who originated the role, shares in the writing credit. The play’s title refers to a list – of everything wonderful in the world – that the narrator writes in response to his mother attempting suicide. He starts the list at age seven with items like "ice cream" and "staying up past your bedtime," and as the narrator grows older, the list grows longer. Kevin Loomer reprises this role which he performed on the Gesa Power House Theatre stage last September.

About 40 years ago, a mysterious acoustic guitarist appeared from nowhere, conquered the music industry, and vanished without a trace… until now. Master storyteller Chase Padgett becomes a manager, a mother, a mentor, and the guitar prodigy himself as each one tells their side of the rise, demise, and resurrection of the best damn guitar player you’ve never heard of: the Nashville Hurricane.

During the course of this one man masterpiece the audience learns about Henry Waltrip (the Nashville Hurricane) from his humble trailer park beginnings with his mother, Brenda, to crazy gigs on the road with his blues-playing mentor, Tyrone. The stories and songs unfold into hilarious rants on love and music, a riveting tale involving the dark side of show biz, and blazing guitar work leading up to the finale: a one-man acoustic rendition of "Devil Went Down to Georgia."

Every Brilliant Thing is a one-actor play, adapted by playwright Duncan McMillan from his own short story “Sleeve Notes”. British comedian Jonny Donahue, who originated the role, shares in the writing credit. The play’s title refers to a list – of everything wonderful in the world – that the narrator writes in response to his mother attempting suicide. He starts the list at age seven with items like "ice cream" and "staying up past your bedtime," and as the narrator grows older, the list grows longer. Kevin Loomer reprises this role which he performed on the Gesa Power House Theatre stage last September.

"Love, Gilda" opens a unique window into the honest and whimsical world of beloved performer Gilda Radner, whose greatest role was sharing her story. Working with the Radner estate, D’Apolito unearthed a collection of diaries and personal audio and videotapes documenting her childhood, her comedy career, her relationships and ultimately, her struggles with cancer. These never-before-seen-or-heard footage and journal entries form the narrative spine of the documentary, allowing Gilda to tell her own story – through laughter and sometimes tears.

Since its formation in Portland in 2006, Pigs on the Wing has steadily developed a reputation for delivering a high quality, high energy take on Pink Floyd's music. All of the members of the band are seasoned veterans of the original rock scene and balance a decidedly un-tribute like attitude towards the music with a deep understanding of the precision and importance of Pink Floyd in many fans' lives. The result is a sound and experience both refreshing in delivery and yet true to the original – something the band believes sets it apart from other Pink Floyd tributes.

This time around – expect two full sets of Pink Floyd music – the first a loosely chronological retrospective of Pink Floyd's work before becoming a household name; and the second a full performance of what many would argue is among rock music's finest works from cover to cover, "The Dark Side of the Moon."

For the third year in a row, Walla Walla celebrities will take to the stage at Gesa Power House Theatre on October 13 at 7:00 p.m. for the annual "Dancing with the W2 Stars" fundraising event for Valley Residential Services. Local participants will be paired with professional dancers and have a week of rehearsals to learn a ballroom dance routine before the live performance and a judging panel.

Give your favorite dancer a leg up in the competition. You can help support the cause by donating money in the name of your favorite dancer! This will give them extra points and help them in the competition. All the proceeds from donations, ticket sales, sponsorships, and advertisements from Dancing with the W2 Stars go to benefit Valley Residential Services in Walla Walla. For more information on this year's Stars, go to www.w2stars.com.

Enjoy the competition and then join us after the winner is announced for our FREE after party. Join W2 Stars and professional dancers upstairs in the Electric Lounge for some high energy dancing from 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

In addition to seeing the Walla Walla Stars dance, the professionals teaching the stars will perform excerpts from their award-winning showcase "Ballroom Fever." Audiences can expect to see breath-taking lifts, hundreds of costumes, theatrical story lines, and a variety of ballroom dance styles, from the sexy Cuban Salsa to the energetic American Swing to the elegant Viennese Waltz.

The professional dance ensemble are members of the United States National Formation Championship company in both Latin American and Standard ballroom dancing, and their company tours internationally, with more than 100 performances each year.

Valley Residential Services provides personalized support in safe, comfortable, home environments for developmentally disabled individuals, residences for veterans with rehabilitation opportunities, and family assistance services.

Reserved seating tickets ($40) are available online or by calling the box office at 509-529-6500. 

An award-winning virtuoso multi-instrumentalist and songwriter with a distinctive voice, Molly Tuttle has turned the heads of even the most seasoned industry professionals. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, which she attended on a Hazel Dickens Memorial Scholarship, Tuttle has been featured on the cover of Acoustic Guitar Magazine (April 2017, February 2018) and Bluegrass Unlimited (July 2018).

In October 2017, Molly Tuttle became the first woman to be named the International Bluegrass Music Association’s "Guitar Player of the Year." In 2018 she won the Song Of The Year Award at the International Folk Music Awards with "You Didn't Call My Name."

The Rude Mechanicals will debut their live theatrical production of Hamlet at Gesa Power House Theatre on October 20 at 7:00 p.m. 

One of Shakespeare’s most famous plays and often quoted in popular culture, Hamlet tells the tale of Denmark’s grieving prince who seeks to avenge his father’s murder by bringing the new king, Claudius (his uncle and his mother’s new husband) to justice. Hamlet vividly portrays the power of overwhelming grief and rage while exploring themes of treachery, revenge, and moral corruption.

Just Us Girls Sharing (J.U.G.S.) invites you to an EP Release Party for indie folk duo Sound and Stone at Gesa Power House Theatre on Saturday, October 27 at 7:00 p.m. Proceeds will benefit J.U.G.S. Brothers Nico and Bash Evans have been making music as Sound and Stone for more than a decade, and only recently decided to record their first studio work, an EP titled "The Vardo," with Dave Tate at Red Earth Recording Studios.

Gesa Power House Theatre presents country music prodigy EmiSunshine in concert on Saturday, November 3 at 8:00 p.m.

"Just an incredible talent!  I'm so proud for her and I'm probably her biggest fan!"
- Tanya Tucker

"The young country singer is no tween novelty. The pint-size Tennessee native is a hard-country belter; she's a star on the rise."
~Chicago Tribune

The exceptional talents of critically-acclaimed teen music prodigy, EmiSunshine has captured the nation’s attention. The singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist has been hailed by outlets such as No Depression, Billboard and Rolling Stone: “Sounds like the spunky, intense little sister to artists Iris DeMent, Natalie Maines, Nanci Griffith and Janis Joplin.”

EmiSunshine has already graced some of the most-prestigious stages--from the "Today Show," to the Grand Ole Opry (more than a dozen times) and most recently, “Little Big Shots starring Steve Harvey” last April. Additionally, EmiSunshine stars in and performs three songs in her latest film appearance on “The King,” alongside such celebrities as Roseanne Cash, Emmylou Harris, Ethan Hawke, Alec Baldwin, and more. The film featured at this year's Sundance Film Festival and premiered at Cannes Film Festival, where Emi performed.

A well-crafted storyteller, Emi's music has been described as an “old-timey," unique blend of roots music that is equal parts Americana, bluegrass, gospel, and country, with a sprinkle of blues.

“A very talented young lady, ...EmiSunshine is taking the nation by storm, and if you ever get the chance to see them, by all means...you must.” - No Depression

Reserved seating tickets ($35-$30) are available online or by calling the box office at 509-529-6500.

Walla Walla Valley Academy Drama Department presents Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, a rollicking comedy of gender switching, mistaken identity, a love triangle, and various schemes to entangle the vain and foolish in ridiculous situations. Set in the Renaissance, this lightly trimmed version preserves the most memorable and hilarious lines but keeps the story moving at a clear and lively pace. Believing that Gesa Power House Theatre was made for plays like this, we are thrilled to bring our production there and share it with the valley. 

Winter is just around the corner, and Bluewood Alpine Race Team (BART) is working with Warren Miller Entertainment to bring you its 69th annual ski and snowboard film, Face of Winter, presented by Volkswagen. The late, great Warren Miller built his legacy capturing the essence of winter magic, and the 69th feature film is a visual journey to many of the best skiing locations in the world and a celebration of the man who became known as the face of winter throughout the industry and the places and people he influenced along the way.

The Walla Walla Choral Society's 2018-2019 concert season begins with "Peace & Goodwill" at Gesa Power House Theatre on Sunday, November 25 at 3:00 p.m. and Monday, November 26 at 7:00 p.m.

Peace and Goodwill. What two words better describe the historical Christmas season? This quiet, white light-filled time, “gentle on the ear,” calls for reflection and introspection. It is also an occasion for great joy, “fire and powerful grace,” “songs of hope everlasting,” and care. Joining us will be guest cellist Sally Singer Tuttle, and the Sharpstein Elementary School Choir as we join together to tell of the season’s wonderful themes and deeds.

Popovich, a fifth generation circus performer who learned early on how to develop strong bonds with animals, has rescued a majority of his performers from shelters all over the country, and has transformed them into Las Vegas stars. He is a gold medal winner in Paris France and a special award winner in Monte Carlo. Gregory and his pets were finalists on "America's Got Talent," were guests on TV shows with Jay Leno, David Letterman, Craig Ferguson, have been featured on Animal Planet and many, many more. Do not miss this opportunity to see this unique family-friendly show featuring this legendary circus entertainer and his furry friends.