“We’re so excited to be back, programming and bringing fabulous national entertainment to central Nebraska,” said Denise Christensen, director of the Merryman Performing Arts Center. “There is a pent-up demand for these shows. People are excited to be back. In the past we’ve had more than 600 season-ticket members from 44 communities. We’re very close to having that many again for the 2021-22 season. We’re thrilled.”

Christensen deeply appreciates the support from Kearney and surrounding communities.

“Without that we would not be able to do the other programming that we provide,” she noted. “Things like special concerts, family programming and our student matinee series are some of types of the events that we can do because of the support from our core audience.”

When it comes to programming for the Merryman season, Christensen seeks highly professional performers.

“We look for top artists who can provide quality programming. We know that people love music of the ’60s and ’70s so we do focus on that for our main season,” she said. “Outside of that season, we do other programming to engage additional members of the community that might be looking for something else.”