Arkansas State University-Beebe has announced its 2026-27 Performing Arts Series, offering nationally recognized musicians, distinguished speakers, theatrical productions, art exhibitions and community activities throughout the upcoming academic year.
The series provides students and area residents with opportunities to experience live performances, educational lectures and exhibitions while showcasing the talents of ASU-Beebe students, faculty members and visiting artists.
Andrea Cole, associate vice chancellor of institutional advancement, said ASU-Beebe is excited to offer another season that brings nationally recognized performers and speakers to campus while celebrating the talents of students and faculty.
Cole said the Performing Arts Series has become an important part of the college’s mission to enrich students’ educational experiences while serving communities across the region.
The season will open Thursday, August 27, with a free outdoor concert by Arkansas musician Wyly Bigger during the Back to Beebe Bash.
The event will be held in The Grove on the Beebe campus. Great Western Dining Services will provide complimentary food and drinks from 5 until 6 p.m., followed by Bigger’s concert at 7 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.
The fall schedule will continue October 1 with artist Robert Townsend. The program will include a screening of the award-winning documentary “My Indiana Muse,” followed by a lecture examining Townsend’s artistic process and the inspiration behind his work.
Tomáseen Foley will bring “A Celtic Christmas” to ASU-Beebe on December 9. The Irish holiday production will feature traditional music, dance and storytelling.
The spring portion of the series will begin January 28, 2027, with Dave Digs Disney & Princess Party. The family-friendly event will include a princess party followed by a concert featuring jazz-inspired arrangements of Disney classics.
Historian Dr. John A. Kirk will present a lecture February 15.
Coach Ken Carter will conclude the featured lecture series April 22. His presentation on leadership, accountability, education and teamwork will follow a screening of the movie “Coach Carter.”
In addition to the featured performances and lectures, the series will include productions by the ASU-Beebe Theatre Department, a showcase featuring student musicians and performers, improv programs and black box theater performances.
The England Center Art Gallery will host exhibitions during the season, while the Abington Library Series will provide additional educational programs.
Community activities will include Makers Days, the annual Community Tree Lighting and the Vanguard Renaissance Faire.
ASU-Beebe officials said the collection of performances, programs and community events reflects the college’s commitment to providing cultural and educational opportunities that enrich campus life and serve surrounding communities.
Proceeds from designated community events will benefit the ASU-Beebe Student Emergency Hope Fund. The fund assists students experiencing unexpected financial hardships.
The 2026-27 Performing Arts Series is supported by Stallion Transportation Group, Eoff & Associates, First Community Bank, First Electric Cooperative, Connect2First, ArkansasRadio.com, Edward Jones financial advisor Debbie Elgen, Barbara House and Great Western Dining Services.
Several events will be free and open to the public, including the Wyly Bigger concert, art gallery exhibitions, library programs and numerous community activities.
Tickets for featured performances are $15 for general admission. Discounted $10 tickets are available to educators, military personnel, K-12 students and adults aged 60 and older.
Admission to ASU-Beebe Theatre Department productions is $5. Tickets for the Princess Party are $25.
The complete 2026-27 Performing Arts Series schedule and ticket information are available at ASU-Beebe’s Performing Arts website.
Arkansas State University-Beebe was founded in 1927 and is an operationally separate, 2-year institution within the Arkansas State University System. The college has locations in Beebe, Heber Springs, Searcy and at Little Rock Air Force Base, along with online programs.
ASU-Beebe offers associate degrees, certificates and noncredit training for businesses and industries.
FEATURED EVENT SCHEDULE:
August 27, 2026: Wyly Bigger performs during the Back to Beebe Bash. Complimentary food and drinks will be served from 5 until 6 p.m., followed by the free concert at 7 p.m.
October 1, 2026: Artist Robert Townsend presents a screening of “My Indiana Muse” and a lecture about his artistic process.
December 9, 2026: Tomáseen Foley presents “A Celtic Christmas,” featuring traditional Irish music, dancing and storytelling.
January 28, 2027: Dave Digs Disney & Princess Party features a family-friendly princess experience and jazz-inspired Disney music.
February 15, 2027: Historian Dr. John A. Kirk presents a featured lecture.
April 22, 2027: Coach Ken Carter discusses leadership, accountability, education and teamwork following a screening of “Coach Carter.”
TICKET INFORMATION:
Featured performances: $15 general admission
Educators, military personnel, K-12 students and adults aged 60 and older: $10
ASU-Beebe theater productions: $5
Princess Party: $25
Wyly Bigger concert, gallery exhibitions, library programs and many community events: Free
