sioux-center-arts-153930

Building More Than an Instrument

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:44:57 GMT

A One-of-a-Kind Workshop Returns for a Second Summer.

For the second summer in a row, we had the joy of welcoming Gary VanderHart back to Sioux Center Arts to lead one of our most unique and meaningful workshops: building a mountain dulcimer from start to finish.

What many people don't realize is that this workshop begins long before anyone walks through the door. Throughout the year, Gary painstakingly prepares twelve dulcimer kits by hand, carefully shaping each piece so participants can experience the incredible process of assembling their own instrument. It's a labor of love that requires countless hours of skill, patience, and dedication.

Over the course of the workshop, participants don't just build a mountain dulcimer—they build confidence. Guided by Gary's encouragement and expert instruction, each person leaves with an instrument they crafted with their own hands.

We're so grateful that Gary continues to share his gifts with our community. His passion for music-making, instrument-making, and passing those traditions on to others is truly inspiring. He reminds us that the best teachers don't just share knowledge—they share themselves. Because of Gary, twelve more people now have not only a beautiful mountain dulcimer, but also the confidence to make music with it.

Thank you, Gary, for the countless hours you invest behind the scenes, for your joyful spirit, and for making this remarkable experience possible. Our community is richer because of you.

Under the Sea Art Camp Makes a Splash!

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:24:07 GMT

A memorable first summer leading one of Sioux Center Arts' favorite traditions

After our longtime Art Camp instructor, Kir Cosgrove, stepped away, I had the opportunity to lead camp myself for the first time in my four years as Arts Director. Kir built a wonderful tradition of creativity and fun, and I was honored to carry it forward this summer.

Over the last two weeks of June, we welcomed K–2nd grade and 3rd–5th grade students through four Under the Sea Art Camps. This was the first year we've built camp around a central theme, and it was such a hit. It was so fun to turn the Children's Park Shelter House into an ocean-themed party with ocean themed decor all around!

One of the greatest joys of teaching art is watching children discover what they're capable of creating. Throughout the week, we explored a variety of mediums—including clay, paint, paper, cardboard, and pastels—and every student found their own way to interpret the theme. There were plenty of messy tables, paint-covered hands, and proud smiles as ideas transformed into works of art.

While I certainly spent time teaching techniques and guiding projects, my favorite moments were simply watching creativity unfold. Some students carefully planned every detail, while others eagerly experimented to see where their imagination would lead. Each artwork reflected the unique personality of the artist who made it, and that's something I always love to see.

Of course, the week wouldn't be complete without our Art Show. To me, this is the perfect ending to camp. Family and friends filled the room to admire the students' work, and the young artists beamed with pride as they shared what they had created. Seeing children gain confidence as they explain their artwork to the people they love is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do.

Thank you to every student who joined us, to the families who entrusted us with their young artists, and to everyone who came to celebrate at the Art Show. Leading Art Camp for the first time was a highlight of my summer, and I'm already looking forward to dreaming up next year's adventures together.

It Was a "Fantas-marific" Adventure

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 17:28:41 GMT

OUr Audiences once again reminded us how foruntate we are to have a community that values the arts

This past weekend , we took audience members on a “fantas-marific” adventure from Dover, England to New York City. Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach performed at Te Paske Theater during Sioux Center’s Summer Celebration, June 3-6.

Audience members of all ages enjoyed the story of a young orphan boy who escapes his cruel aunts and sets off across the ocean inside a giant peach with a group of extraordinary insect friends, encountering sharks, seagulls, and other adventures on his journey to New York City.

One audience member commented, “We got to see James and the Giant Peach last night and then spent like an hour afterwards RAVING about what we loved. It was an outstanding show full of hilarious characters and fantastic music (which we continued to sing afterward). The costuming and set were out of this world! And the music! The pit orchestra is top tier! We loved it!”

Bringing this whimsical story to life required the talents of 59 performers, including cast members, orchestra musicians, and a backup chorus. Behind the scenes, a production team of 23 individuals helped make the show possible, contributing everything from directing and operating spotlights to managing front-of-house operations and sewing costumes from scratch. With auditions in January, actors have been working on this show since February, refining blocking, singing, and choreography.

The enthusiasm and support shown by our audiences once again reminded us how fortunate we are to be part of a community that values the arts. We are grateful to everyone who attended, volunteered, sponsored, and supported this production. Thank you for making another Summer Celebration show a memorable experience for performers and patrons alike.

James & The Giant Peach Opens Next Week!

Mon, 25 May 2026 17:27:43 GMT

A musical adventure for all ages

We are so excited to be opening our production of Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach at Te Paske Theatre next week, June 3-6th! Audiences of all ages will be swept away by the journey of James and his larger-than-life insect friends as they sail across the ocean inside a giant peach.

Our production features a talented cast of local performers, working alongside a dedicated team of volunteers, designers, musicians, and technicians to transform the stage into a whimsical world full of surprises. From vibrant costumes and creative staging to energetic musical numbers, every element of the production is designed to capture the heart and humor that has made this Roald Dahl classic a favorite.

Tickets can be purchased at https://our.show/scapeach or you can stop by the Sioux Center Municipal Utilities Office to reserve tickets in person. Ticket prices vary by seat location.

We are incredibly grateful for the enthusiastic support from the community and proud of the hard work and dedication shown by everyone involved. Sioux Center Arts continues to provide opportunities for performers, artists, musicians, and volunteers of all ages to come together and create something special each year, and this production of James and the Giant Peach is no exception. Don't miss it!

Sioux Center Youth Theatre Presents "As You Like It"

Tue, 12 May 2026 15:56:29 GMT

Twenty local students take on Shakespeare

This past weekend, Sioux Center Youth Theatre presented a lively one-hour adaptation of William Shakespeare’s As You Like It at the Te Paske Theatre. Twenty students from several local schools came together to bring the classic comedy to life, delighting audiences with their energy, humor, and impressive performances.

This year’s production was directed by Marissa Leraas, whose work helped guide students through the challenge and excitement of performing Shakespeare. One especially memorable part of the production was the beautiful collection of costumes, all hand-made by local volunteer seamstress and college student Lucy Driewer. The costumes added so much charm and helped make the experience feel truly special for the young actors.

We were thrilled to see such a wonderful turnout from the community in support of these students and the arts. Sioux Center Youth Theatre offers both fall and spring seasons each year, with Shakespeare productions always taking center stage in the spring. Time and again, these young actors amaze us with their ability to memorize and perform the timeless words of the Bard.

Opera Iowa! Comes to Town

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 02:31:06 GMT

Over 400 students experience opera for the first time

It was an exciting day for the arts as Opera Iowa brought the magic of opera to our community! More than 400 students from local schools experienced opera for the very first time during a lively daytime performance of Billy Goats Gruff at BJ Haan Auditorium on the campus of Dordt University.

The colorful performance had students laughing and fully engaged, as the three goats made their memorable journey across the bridge. (Judging by the smiles and energy on stage, it was just as much fun for the performers as it was for the audience!)

In the evening, many students returned with their families to enjoy a beautiful performance of Cinderella, making it a full day of music, storytelling, and shared experiences. The turnout was wonderful, and one of the highlights of the night was seeing so many children stay afterward to take photos and meet the cast.

We are incredibly thankful to Dordt University for their willingness to collaborate with Sioux Center Arts by hosting these performances in the BJ Haan Auditorium. Partnerships like these make it possible to bring high-quality arts experiences to our community and introduce young audiences to the joy of opera.

A Beautiful, Memorable Night

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:42:27 GMT

Romance on the Strings, a magical candlelit evening

Romance on the Strings: A Magical Candlelit Evening

On February 28, Sioux Center Arts welcomed the community to Romance on the Strings, a beautiful candlelit concert held in the stunning setting of St. Mary’s Church. With hundreds of candles illuminating the sanctuary, the evening felt truly magical from the first note to the final bow.

Musicians Jennifer Frens, Lisa Miedema, Shari Boone, and Benjamin Ploegstra delivered an unforgettable performance, filling the space with warmth, elegance, and expressive music that captivated the audience.

We were thrilled by the wonderful turnout and the enthusiastic response from the community. It was a joy to see the church filled with listeners sharing in such a memorable experience.

Sioux Center Arts is deeply grateful to St. Mary’s Church for being the most gracious hosts and for providing such a gorgeous venue for this special evening.

Inspired by the success of this concert, Sioux Center Arts is excited to begin planning another Candlelit Concert for the fall—we can’t wait to gather again for another evening of music and light.

Sioux County Oratorio to Perform Handel's Messiah

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 22:54:57 GMT

HANDEL'S MESSIAH IS TWO WEEKS AWAY AND WE CAN'T WAIT...

Sioux Center Arts is proud to sponsor the Sioux County Oratorio Chorus, and this April we are especially excited to cheer them on as they present one of the most beloved choral masterworks of all time: Handel’s Messiah.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 7:30 PM at Christ Chapel on the campus of Northwestern College in Orange City, IA. The Sioux County Oratorio Chorus will be joined by the Northwestern College A Cappella Choir and a live chamber orchestra for what promises to be an unforgettable evening.
Conductor Dr. Thomas Holm will lead a talented lineup of soloists — Suna Gunther (Soprano), Michelle Monroe (Alto), Mackenzie Whitney (Tenor), and Mitchell Widmer (Bass) — bringing Handel’s timeless score to life right here in northwest Iowa.
Advance tickets are just $15 for adults and $5 for students, available at the Northwestern College Music Dept., Dordt University Music Dept., Windmill Park Jewelers in Orange City, or from any SCOC member. Tickets at the door are $20 for adults and $5 for students.
This is a concert worth gathering your family, friends, and neighbors for. We hope to see you there!

700 Candles to Lite String Quartet Concert

duda@neonone.com — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:42:20 GMT

Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of music and atmosphere at Romance on the Strings, a one-of-a-kind candlelit concert set within the stunning historic walls of St. Mary’s Church in Alton. The performance will feature a string quartet presenting romantic classical selections alongside music from the cinema, illuminated exclusively by 700 flickering candles, creating an ambiance unlike any traditional concert experience.

The evening’s musicians are distinguished members of the Northwest Iowa Symphony Orchestra:

Lisa Miedema, violin
Jennifer Frens, violin
Shari Boone, viola
Ben Ploegstra, cello

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students/children (18 & under) + convenience fee. Tickets may be purchased online through Ticketleap at ticketleap.events/events/siouxcenterarts, or by phone at 712.722.2782 (Sioux Center Arts) or 712.722.0761 (City Office). Printed tickets—perfect for gifting—are available at the City Office. Seating is general admission.

ANNOUNCING “JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH" - Our 2026 Summer Show!

duda@neonone.com — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:36:18 GMT

We're casting students Age 10-Adults!

James and the Giant Peach is a musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic children’s book. It tells the story of James, a lonely orphan who is sent to live with his cruel aunts, Spiker and Sponge. When a mysterious old man gives him a magic potion, James accidentally spills it on a barren peach tree — causing one giant peach to grow. Inside the peach, James meets a group of oversized, talking insects — including Ladybug, Grasshopper, Earthworm, Centipede, and Spider — who become his friends and chosen family. Together, they embark on a fantastical journey across the ocean, facing dangers, adventures, and ultimately discovering the meaning of friendship and belonging.

Click on this link for - JAMES AUDITION PACKET - All the important information you need to know for how we're running our auditions!

Click this link for an AUDITION FORM - feel free to print this out and bring it to your audition to save time!

AUDITION DATES AND TIMES: January 29, 6-9pm; January 31, 9am-3pm (Performance Dates June 3-6)

LOCATION: Open Space Shelter House: 1270 7th St NE, Sioux Center

CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS - So Many Parts for All Ages!!

Ladahlord (Man or Woman; Age: 18+) ○ mysterious, magical trickster who guides the story’s events.
James (Boy, age: 10-13 OR girl, age: 10-15) ○ a gentle, imaginative boy who starts out lonely and uncertain but grows brave and resourceful as his journey unfolds
Spiker (Man or Woman; Age: 20+) ○ James’s cruel, selfish aunts—spiteful, greedy, and lazy
Sponge (Man or Woman; Age: 20+) ○ James’s cruel, selfish aunts—spiteful, greedy, and lazy
Earthworm (Man or Boy) ○ a nervous, pessimistic creature who often doubts himself, but he’s loyal and kind-hearted, providing humor and unexpected bravery
Spider (Anyone) ○ graceful, clever, and caring—protective of James and confident in her abilities
Centipede (Anyone) ○ bold, loud, and mischievous—full of swagger and a little angst
Grasshopper (Man or Boy) ○ wise, dignified, and musical—often calm and encouraging—using his violin-like legs and steady optimism to guide and uplift the group.
Ladybug (Woman or Girl) ○ warm, gentle, and nurturing—often acting like a motherly figure—bringing kindness, patience, and steady support to James and the whole group
Matron Nurse (Woman; Age: 30+)
Mr. Trotter (Man; Age: 20+)
Mrs. Trotter (Woman; Age: 20+)
Garden Ensemble
Insect Ensemble
Reporters
Willy Wonka/Oompa Loompas
Porter/Cruise Staff
Buzz/Hollywood Agent Ensemble
Seagull Ensemble
New Yorker Ensemble