Stinson Prairie Arts Council

07/31/2026

August 21 • Wilcox Performing Arts Center

07/30/2026

We are currently accepting grant applications. Please visit the GRANT APPLICATIONS page to submit your request. Thank you for your interest in our work and for supporting all creative and cultural activities in our community.

07/29/2026

This pioneering performance honors 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence through song.

07/29/2026

Wondering if this performance is for you?

Here are five reasons audiences love I Hear America Singing:

🎵 Familiar music

🎭 Inspiring storytelling

🌟 World-class performers

❤️ An unforgettable shared experience

🇺🇸 A celebration of America's spirit

Join us for an evening you'll be talking about long after the final curtain.

Get your tickets today!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/i-hear-america-singing-tickets-1993023187003?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

07/27/2026

🎤 Meet Ben Jones — A Performer Who Does It All 🎤

Singer. Actor. Comedian. Storyteller.

Ben Jones is the kind of performer who can make you laugh one moment and leave you completely captivated the next.

An award-winning artist whose career spans jazz, cabaret, classical music, and musical theatre, Ben has performed with some of the nation's finest orchestras and collaborated with legendary artists including Rita Moreno, Michael Tilson Thomas, and Frederica von Stade. His voice has also been featured on A Prairie Home Companion, major video game soundtracks, and national television commercials.

Whether performing at Carnegie Hall, appearing Off-Broadway, or entertaining audiences across the country, Ben is celebrated for his expressive voice, effortless stage presence, and remarkable ability to connect with audiences through music and storytelling.

Now, he's bringing that same energy to I Hear America Singing.

Adding a special hometown connection, Ben grew up in Peoria, Illinois, and is especially excited to return to the Midwest for this inspiring celebration of America's music, poetry, stories, and spirit.

Join us for an unforgettable evening featuring extraordinary artists, moving performances, and a celebration of what unites us through the power of music.

🎟️ Tickets are on sale now.
Reserve your seats today before the best seats are gone!

07/24/2026

I Hear America Singing | One unforgettable evening.

Join us for I Hear America Singing—a moving celebration of America's music, stories, and spirit.

This isn't your typical concert. It's an inspiring blend of live music, storytelling, poetry, and stunning visuals that will make you laugh, reflect, and leave feeling inspired.

Gather your family and invite your friends for an unforgettable evening together.
Advance Ticket Price $20.
Ages 18 and Under $10.

Get your tickets today before the best seats are gone!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/i-hear-america-singing-tickets-1993023187003?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

07/24/2026

🎶 Meet Nathan Gunn — One of America's Most Acclaimed Baritones 🎶

When Nathan Gunn takes the stage, audiences experience more than extraordinary singing—they experience unforgettable storytelling.

Internationally recognized for his powerful performances in opera, musical theater, and concert stages around the world, Nathan has captivated audiences at the Metropolitan Opera, Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, and countless prestigious venues. His celebrated portrayal of Papageno in The Magic Flute was featured in the Metropolitan Opera's very first Live in HD broadcast, introducing his artistry to audiences across the globe. He has also earned both Grammy and Beverly Sills Awards for his exceptional performances.

Beyond the stage, Nathan is a passionate educator and advocate for the arts, serving as the Swanlund Chair and Professor of Voice at the University of Illinois, where he helps shape the next generation of performers.

Now, you have the opportunity to experience his remarkable talent live as he joins us for I Hear America Singing—an inspiring evening celebrating the music, poetry, stories, and spirit of America.

This is more than a concert. It's an evening that will move you, make you smile, and remind you why the arts continue to bring people together.

🎟️ Tickets are on sale now.
Secure your seats today before the best locations are gone.

07/24/2026

🎭 Meet Julie Jordan Gunn — The Vision Behind I Hear America Singing 🎭

Behind every unforgettable performance is someone who brings the vision to life—and for I Hear America Singing, that person is Julie Jordan Gunn.

An internationally respected pianist, producer, educator, and arts advocate, Julie has dedicated her career to creating performances that inspire audiences while supporting the next generation of artists. She has performed on some of the world's most prestigious recital stages and, alongside her husband and artistic partner Nathan Gunn, has helped bring countless musical productions to life.

As Co-Director of Lyric Theatre @ Illinois and founder of Shot in the Dark Productions, Julie is known for producing innovative performances that blend artistic excellence with meaningful storytelling. This season, she brings that passion to I Hear America Singing, a powerful tribute celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence through music, poetry, history, and the shared American experience.

Beyond the stage, Julie is an accomplished educator, mentor, and advocate for the arts, serving in leadership roles that support artists, students, and children throughout her community. Her lifelong commitment to creativity and education continues to inspire audiences and performers alike.

Join us for an evening unlike any other as Julie Jordan Gunn helps bring I Hear America Singing to life.

🎟️ Tickets are on sale now.
Reserve your seats today and experience an inspiring celebration of America's music, stories, and spirit.

07/21/2026

07/19/2026

We're giving away TWO tickets to experience I Hear America Singing!

One lucky winner and a guest will enjoy an unforgettable evening celebrating America's music, stories, and spirit.

Here's how to enter:

🎟 Like this post

🎟 Follow the Haggard-Twogood Charitable Trust page

🎟 Tag the person you'd bring in the comments

⭐ Bonus Entry: Share this post to your page and tag the Haggard-Twogood Charitable Trust.

📅 Entries close at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, August 4.

🏆 The winner will be announced on Wednesday, August 5.

Good luck—we can't wait to welcome one lucky winner to this unforgettable performance!