Orange City Arts Council

Fall into Creativity: Orange City Arts’ New Fall Workshop Series

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 19:06:00 GMT

As the vibrant colors of summer give way to autumn’s cozy hues, Orange City Arts is offering a fresh lineup of fall workshops and experiences to fuel your creative soul. From painting to sewing, these one-of-a-kind sessions are perfect for discovering—or expanding—your artistic spark.

What’s on the Fall Lineup?

Our MainStage events run from September through April, featuring compelling performances from local and national artists. Complementing these, our hands‑on Fall Workshops bring more learning and art-making opportunities to the community.

Here are some workshops scheduled for Fall 2025 include:

Coffee & Canvas: Painting Landscapes with April Benson (2 dates)
Date : September 27, 2025, 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM and November 22, 2025, 1 – 3 pm
Location : Kweken Co., 113 3rd St NW, Orange City
A relaxed and inspiring session where participants paint landscapes over coffee in the company of fellow creatives.
Sewing for Beginners
Dates : October 9–11, 2025
Time : Thursday at 6 – 7pm, 7 – 8pm; Saturday at 10 – 11 am, 11am – 12 noon
Location : City Hall, 125 Central Ave, Orange City
Beginner-friendly workshop to learn essential sewing skills—think hem-mending, basic stitching, and more.
Paint the Seasons: Fall
Date : October 23, 2025, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location : City Hall, 125 Central Ave S, Orange City
Capture autumn’s essence as you paint scenes inspired by the season—think falling leaves, golden light, and harvest tones or Halloween!

And More!

Ready to Join the Fun?

Between the MainStage performances and these engaging workshops, Orange City Arts is crafting a season full of creative energy and connection. Whether you’re seeking to jumpstart a new hobby or cozy up with like-minded makers, this fall is your canvas, and the workshops are your palette.

Feeling inspired but not sure which workshop fits you best? I’d be happy to help you decide or brainstorm how to make that painting or sewing project uniquely yours. Check out our full schedule of events here.

Fall into Creativity: Orange City Arts’ New Fall Workshop Series

By orangecityarts | September 3, 2025

OnStage 2025 Continues with an Exciting July Lineup!

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 19:29:00 GMT

Free performances every Wednesday at 7:00 PM | Windmill Park, Orange City

Orange City Arts is thrilled to bring you another month of unforgettable performances as part of the OnStage 2025 summer concert series! Every Wednesday in July, join us at Windmill Park for live music, theater, and community fun. All events are free and open to the public , with select evenings featuring pre-show activities for all ages.

OnStage 2025 Continues with an Exciting July Lineup!

By orangecityarts | June 24, 2025

JULY 2 – Hollander Jazz

Celebrate Independence Day week with the smooth, vibrant sounds of Hollander Jazz! This crowd favorite returns with a patriotic flair. Pre-event activities from 5:00–7:00 PM include crafts, inflatables, food trucks, and more.

JULY 9 – Orange City Community Band

JULY 16 – Uncle Muskrat

JULY 23 – Starling Shakespeare

JULY 30 – Broadway in the Park

Enjoy a summer tradition with the Orange City Community Band as they fill the park with beautiful symphonic music and local talent. City of Orange City Appreciation Meal.

Folk, blues, and Americana come together in Uncle Muskrat’s soulful and energetic performance. With rich melodies and engaging storytelling, this concert promises a feel-good evening for all ages.

Experience Shakespeare under the stars! Starling Shakespeare will perform one of the Bard’s timeless classics in an outdoor setting. Interactive pre-show activities f rom 5:00–7:00 PM will enhance the evening for theater lovers and newcomers alike.

Cap off the month with a showcase of local performers singing favorite Broadway hits. A celebration of community talent and beloved show tunes you won’t want to miss!

Mark your calendars and gather your lawn chairs, blankets, and friends for a month of music, theater, and summer memories. For updates and details, visit www.orangecityarts.org or follow Orange City Arts on Facebook and Instagram.

Let the summer magic continue— see you at Windmill Park!

June Featured Artist: Carol Jo Smidt

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 16:32:00 GMT

Orange City Arts is pleased to present a vibrant solo exhibition by Iowa artist Carol Jo Smidt, on display at the Stadscentrum Building in downtown Orange City from June 4 through June 25 .

Known for her expressive use of color and exploration of a wide range of subjects, Smidt brings a fresh perspective to the everyday through paintings that span landscapes, still life, animals, and abstract works. Her show invites viewers to rediscover beauty in the ordinary—rendered in extraordinary hues and dynamic compositions.

Her passion for art continued with a formal art education at the St. Paul School of Art through graduate studies at the Savannah College of Art and Design.

“Drawing from my background in graphic design, I have a strong emphasis on color, design and drawing in my oil and acrylic paintings. Throughout my painting career, animals have been my major interest with abstract landscape being a recent pursuit.”

An artist continually evolving in both medium and style, Smidt began with oils and now works frequently in pastels. “I never want to become too comfortable with my art,” she says. “My subjects, color combinations, techniques, and media are always open to new creations.”

Carol Jo Smidt’s creative process is as energetic as her artwork. Often working on multiple paintings simultaneously—sometimes as many as twelve in various stages—she describes her canvas as her greatest teacher. “To learn is to paint and to paint is to learn,” she reflects.

Her participation in regional shows and arts festivals has allowed her to connect with collectors and fellow artists alike, helping her stay rooted in community while pursuing what is often a solitary craft. “Painting is a very solitary pursuit, and I can easily become an ‘artistic hermit,’” she says with humor. “Relationships with other artists are helpful learning tools, allowing me to see art up close and to know the person behind it.”

The public is invited to meet Carol Jo Smidt in person during a special artist meet-and-greet on Wednesday, June 25, from 5:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Stadscentrum Building. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage with the artist, hear about her process firsthand, and view the culmination of her ongoing artistic journey. Work on display can be purchased by contacting Orange City Arts at info@orangecityarts.org.

Visit her website at https://www.caroljosmidt.net/ for more information and to view additional works.

Admission is free and open to all. For more information, visit www.orangecityarts.org .

June Featured Artist: Carol Jo Smidt

By orangecityarts | June 17, 2025

June 2025 OnStage Line Up

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 16:16:00 GMT

Orange City Arts is thrilled to announce the June lineup for OnStage 2025 , the beloved summer concert series bringing free, live music to Windmill Park in downtown Orange City. Every Wednesday in June, July, and part of August, the community is invited to enjoy a fantastic selection of performances starting at 7:00 PM . Admission is free!

The season kicks off on June 4 with a high-energy performance from Richie Lee & The Fabulous 50’s . This dynamic band will transport audiences back to the golden era of rock ‘n’ roll with classics from the 1950s. Come early and enjoy pre-event activities from 5:00-7:00 PM, featuring kids crafts, inflatables, concessions, food trucks, craft vendors, and more—fun for the whole family! This is a new addition to some of our concerts, enhancing the experience for all attendees.

On June 11, the Orange City Community Band takes the stage, continuing a cherished tradition of showcasing local musical talent. Expect a delightful evening of familiar favorites and concert band classics.
On June 18, the series welcomes Hollander Jazz , a talented jazz ensemble bringing smooth sounds and vibrant rhythms to Windmill Park. This performance promises to be a treat for jazz enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.

Wrapping up the June lineup on June 25 is the high-energy, percussion-driven group Omaha Street Percussion. This unique and electrifying ensemble will captivate audiences with rhythm, movement, and an unforgettable show. Pre-event activities from 5:00-7:00 PM will set the stage for an exciting night, featuring crafts, concessions, food trucks, and more with a free special drumming workshop with OSP beginning at 6pm —another great opportunity for families to enjoy an evening of fun before the music begins!

Mark your calendars and bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and friends for an unforgettable summer of music. All performances are free and open to the public!

For more information, visit our Events Page or follow Orange City Arts on social media.

June 2025 OnStage Line Up

By orangecityarts | June 17, 2025

2025 Regional Art Show Winners Announced

Mon, 05 May 2025 15:51:00 GMT

Orange City Arts is proud to announce the award recipients from this year’s Regional Art Show , a juried exhibition featuring artists from across Iowa, Minnesota, and South Dakota. With over 30 artworks on display, this year’s exhibit reflected remarkable talent, diverse perspectives, and exceptional craftsmanship.

Best in Show (Themed) was awarded to Kaarina Van Berkum for her striking piece, “Choking Chinook II” , a powerful work that captivated jurors with its depth and technical execution.

Best in Show (Non-Themed Category) went to Judy Thompson for “Quilted Prairie” , a masterful watercolor that celebrates the beauty and texture of the Midwestern landscape.

Honorable Mentions were awarded to:

Laura Synder , “Then Sings My Soul” , recognized for its contemplative mood and expressive use of color.
Yulia Popova , “Floral Fantasies” , a vibrant, imaginative piece that blends fine detail with whimsical composition.

Thank you to all the participating artists for sharing your work and voice with our community. Special thanks to our jurors, Amy Williams and Roberta Pottebaum, for lending their insight and care in selecting this year’s award winners.

2025 Regional Art Show Winners Announced

By orangecityarts | May 5, 2025

2025 Orange City Arts Regional Art Show On Display

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 21:23:00 GMT

Orange City Arts 2025 Regional Art Show now on display

Orange City Arts proudly presents the 2025 Regional Art Show , now on display through May 3 at the Northwestern College DeWitt Theatre Arts Building . Featuring artists from Iowa, South Dakota, and Minnesota, the juried exhibit showcases a diverse array of 2D and 3D works celebrating creativity and regional talent.

This year’s optional theme, Stewards of Creation , complements the NWC Theatre Department’s production of An Enemy of the People . The theme invites reflection on the interconnectedness of life and our role in protecting the environment. Many of the featured pieces highlight the beauty of nature, explore environmental challenges, or symbolize the relationship between humanity and the earth.

The exhibition is free and open to the public with viewing hours Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. A closing reception and awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 3 , where cash prizes will be awarded for Best in Show and Honorable Mention .

For more information about the show and upcoming artist opportunities, visit orangecityarts.org .

Artwork: Prairie Wetlands by Carol Jo Smidt

2025 Orange City Arts Regional Art Show On Display

By orangecityarts | April 14, 2025

Summer Children’s Theater Workshop: High School Musical Jr.

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 21:43:00 GMT

Summer Children’s Theater Workshop: High School Musical Jr.

By orangecityarts | March 31, 2025

DATES

Orange City, IA – Orange City Arts is excited to present the 2025 Summer Children’s Theater Workshop featuring Disney’s High School Musical Jr. This dynamic and engaging workshop will take place from July 28 to Aug 1, 2025, offering young performers an opportunity to develop their acting and singing skills in a fun and supportive environment.

The workshop will immerse students in the energy and excitement of musical theater, focusing on acting, singing, and performance skills. Participants will bring the story of High School Musical Jr. to life, following the journey of Troy, Gabriella, Sharpay, Ryan, and their classmates as they navigate high school challenges while discovering their talents and friendships. Don’t miss this chance for young actors to shine on stage and experience the magic of musical theater! Rehearsals will be held at Unity Christiian High School Knight Center in Orange City, with a final public performance on August 1, at 6:30 PM. Participants will be guided by experienced theater professionals as they bring the beloved characters of East High to life.

For students in grades 5 – 8
$75 registration
Location: Rehearsals and performace at Unity Knight Center, Orange City
Registration is now open, Registration Deadline: June 28

For more information or to register, visit the FAQ Page on our website or email us at info@orangecityarts.org or call 712-707-4510.

July 28 – August 1

Call for Art- 2025 Regional Art Show

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:34:00 GMT

Orange City Arts is now accepting submissions for the 2025 Regional Art Show, featuring works by artists from Iowa, South Dakota, and Minnesota. The exhibit will run from April 5 to May 3 at the NWC DeWitt Theatre Arts Building, coinciding with the NWC Theatre Department’s production of ‘An Enemy of the People’. Cash prizes for “Best in Show” and “Honorable Mention” will be awarded at the closing reception on May 3, 2025.

This year’s optional theme, Stewards of Creation , complements the theatre production’s adaptation of Arthur Miller’s classic. The theme invites artists to explore the interconnectedness of life and reflect on the urgent need to protect and preserve our shared environment.

“Stewards of Creation” invites artists to explore humanity’s role as caretakers of the Earth, celebrating the beauty of creation while reflecting on our responsibility to protect and nurture it. Artists are encouraged to submit 2D and 3D works showcasing the beauty of nature, environmental issues, or the connection between humanity and the environments.

The submission deadline March 21st, 2025 , and submissions can be made at: https://regionalartshow2025.artcall.org/

To learn more about this show and other artist opportunities, visit our Artist Opportunities page.

The show and reception is free to the public. Viewing hours are M-Sat, 9 am to 10 pm.

Call for Art- 2025 Regional Art Show

By orangecityarts | January 29, 2025

An Evening of Dance 2025

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 19:16:00 GMT

Orange City, IA – Orange City Arts presents An Evening of Dance on Saturday, February 1, at 7:00 PM, hosted at the Unity Knight Center. This annual event brings together some of the finest talent from local dance studios, showcasing a captivating array of performances set to an eclectic mix of music genres, including jazz, hip-hop, tap, and more.

Featured dance studios include: Elite Dance & Tumbling, MOC-Floyd Valley Dance Team, Central Dance Academy, Illuminate Dance Project, and The Turn Around .

This evening promises to be a celebration of artistry, rhythm, and grace, as local dancers take to the stage.

Tickets are available for purchase online at orangecityarts.org or in person. Adults – $10, Students – $5, and Children 5 and Under – Free. Don’t miss this chance to experience the beauty and energy of live dance performances.

An Evening of Dance 2025

By orangecityarts | January 20, 2025

Arts Community Impact Night

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 21:16:00 GMT

Join us at the Orange City Pizza Ranch on Monday, January 20, 2025 , from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM for a special community night!

A portion of all sales and cash tips during this time will be donated to the Orange City Arts Performance Fund , supporting local arts and performances.

Bring your family, enjoy a delicious meal, and help make a difference in our community. We can’t wait to see you there!

Arts Community Impact Night

By orangecityarts | January 6, 2025

Support the Arts While Enjoying Pizza!

Mads Tolling & The Mads Men – Playing the 60s

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 21:43:00 GMT

Orange City Arts is excited to present an unforgettable evening with Grammy Award-winning violinist Mads Tolling and his band, The Mads Men , on Friday, January 17th, 2025, at 7:30 pm at the Unity Knight Center . This special performance reimagines some of the most iconic songs of the 1960s, spanning beloved hits from TV, film, and radio, including “Mission Impossible,” “Meet the Flintstones,” “Georgia on My Mind,” and “Good Vibrations.”

A classically trained violinist from Copenhagen, Denmark, now based in San Francisco, Mads Tolling is internationally acclaimed for his jazz artistry and improvisational skill. His illustrious career includes two Grammy Awards in the Classical Crossover category with the Turtle Island Quartet.

Since 2020, Mads has been a member of Bob Weir & Wolf Bros , touring renowned venues such as Red Rocks , The Greek Theatre , and Radio City Music Hall . His contributions to the group include several arrangements of Grateful Dead songs, some of which he seamlessly integrates into his own performances. Featured on Bob Weir’s albums Live in Colorado Vol. 1 & 2 and Ace 50th Anniversary , Mads continues to expand his creative reach. Recent highlights include performances at the Kennedy Center , Willie Nelson’s Outlaw Festival , and as a headliner at the Farm Aid concert .

With six solo albums to his name, Mads’ latest release, Cool Yule – A Nordic Holiday Celebration , blends the traditions of his Danish upbringing with the joyful spirit of American jazz.

Beyond the stage, Mads is a dedicated educator. On Thursday, January 16 , he will visit Unity Christian High School to engage students with a presentation on global music styles and advanced violin techniques.

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to experience a fresh take on beloved 60s classics. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or hearing these timeless hits for the first time, Mads Tolling & The Mads Men will leave you inspired by their innovative artistry and passion for music.

Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door. To learn more, visit our Events Page .

Mads Tolling & The Mads Men – Playing the 60s

By orangecityarts | November 19, 2024

Call for Ornaments

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 19:02:00 GMT

We’re inviting everyone in the community to create homemade ornaments to decorate our tree. Whether it’s crafted with popsicle sticks, painted pinecones, or a glittery masterpiece, we’d love to showcase your creativity!

Rules: One entry per person in the drawing. All ages can participate.
Size limit: 6 inches in diameter and no heavier than 12 oz.
Materials: Lightweight materials and recycled materials are encouraged. All ornaments should be hand-decorated and family friendly. Include a hanger on your ornament.
Pick Up: Pick up your ornament Jan 2 – Jan 10.

Important Note : Orange City Arts reserves the right to not accept ornaments that are deemed inappropriate for public display. Any ornaments not picked up will become the property of OCArts.

Call for Ornaments

By orangecityarts | November 18, 2024

Orange City Arts Presents: “A Christmas Carol” by Flower and Flame

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 21:46:00 GMT

Celebrate the start of the holiday season with a timeless classic! Join us on November 23rd at 7:30 PM at the Unity Knight Center in Orange City for a special performance of A Christmas Carol , brought to life by the talented Flower and Flame ensemble.

This festive event will include a dramatic reading of Charles Dickens’ beloved tale, accompanied by live music that captures the warmth and wonder of the season. Perfect for families and friends alike, this evening promises an unforgettable mix of story and song.

In the lobby, guests can enjoy a Free Will Donation Hot Chocolate Bar before and after the performance, with hot chocolate and all the delicious fixings to make the night even sweeter.

Event Details:

Date: November 23, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Unity Knight Center, Orange City, IA
Tickets: Available for purchase online or at the door on the day of the event

View our list Mainstage events and to secure your tickets for this heartwarming holiday experience. Don’t miss the chance to start your holiday season with A Christmas Carol !

Orange City Arts Presents: “A Christmas Carol” by Flower and Flame

By orangecityarts | November 11, 2024

Japanese Tea Ceremony with Kuniko Yamamoto

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 19:27:00 GMT

Experience the serene beauty of a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony with Kuniko Yamamoto on October 25th at 7:00 PM at Kweken Co ., downtown Orange City, IA. This special event will not only showcase the meticulous art of preparing and serving green tea but will also include captivating storytelling and traditional Japanese koto music. Each attendee will receive a cup of ceremonial green tea, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the ritual’s elegance, accompanied by the soothing sounds and tales that enrich the cultural experience. Limited seating; early ticket booking is recommended.

Info and Tickets

Support for this event is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council, which exists within the Iowa Economic Development Authority.

Japanese Tea Ceremony with Kuniko Yamamoto

By orangecityarts | September 26, 2024

2024-25 Iowa Watercolor Society Traveling Exhibit

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 19:12:00 GMT

Through October, the 2024-25 Iowa Watercolor Society Traveling Show will be on display at the main level of the Northwestern College DeWitt Library. This exhibit is open to the public and free to attend, offering a splendid array of watercolor artworks from talented artists across Iowa.

Join us on October 18th at 6:30 PM , NWC Vogel Room (NWC DeWitt Library, 2nd Floor) for a reception and special ‘The Art of Watercolor’ talk by renowned watercolor artist Judy Thompson . This event is a unique opportunity to gain insights into the world of watercolor painting from an expert in the field. Free will donation. Light refreshments will be served.

To view the show or to learn more about the IA Watercolor Society, visit their website https://www.iowawatercolorsociety.org/

Photo: Enlightened Curiosity by Melissa Van Egdom

2024-25 Iowa Watercolor Society Traveling Exhibit

By orangecityarts | September 26, 2024

2024-25 MainStage Lineup

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 16:02:00 GMT

Orange City Arts is excited to announce its captivating lineup of events for the upcoming Fall and Winter season. We warmly invite the community and surrounding areas to join us for a series of cultural and artistic experiences featuring local and international talent.

Iowa Watercolor Society Exhibition

Orange City Arts will host the Iowa Watercolor Society Traveling Exhibition at the NWC DeWitt Library for the month of October. This free exhibit showcases a stunning collection of watercolor pieces from artists across Iowa. The public is welcome to attend. On October 18th at 6:30 PM , join us in the Vogel Room for a special event, The Art of Watercolor , with local artist Judy Thompson . The evening will include a reception and artist talk offering a rare chance to learn about watercolor techniques from a master of the craft.

Japanese Tea Ceremony with Kuniko Yamamoto

Immerse yourself in the elegance of a Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony on October 25th at 7:00 PM at Kweken Co . Led by Kuniko Yamamoto, this event features the ceremonial preparation and serving of green tea, accompanied by traditional storytelling and Japanese music. Each guest will enjoy a cup of ceremonial green tea, enhancing the full sensory experience of this cultural ritual. Seating is limited, advance ticketing is encouraged.

A Christmas Carol by Flower and Flame

Celebrate the season with a magical reading of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol on November 23rd . This performance by Sioux Falls artists Flower and Flame will combine a dramatic reading with live music, bringing Dickens’ timeless story to life in a way that will warm your heart and capture the holiday spirit.

Mads Tolling & The Mads Men, Playing the 60s

Don’t miss the exhilarating performance by Mads Tolling & the Mads Men on January 17th This award-winning group will deliver an unforgettable fusion of jazz and contemporary 60s music, sure to entertain and inspire music lovers of all ages.

An Evening of Dance

On February 1st at 7:00 PM , experience the beauty and diversity of dance with An Evening of Dance. Featuring a range of dance styles and performances, this event will showcase the incredible talent and creativity of regional dancers.

To learn more about these events or to purchase tickets, visit our Event Page or call 712-707-4510.

2024-25 MainStage Lineup

By orangecityarts | September 26, 2024

Featured Artists in Stadscentrum – Explore Nature

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 17:30:00 GMT

Join us for a captivating art exhibition at Stadscentrum, featuring the works of three talented artists: Abbi Boutwell, Amelia Hansen, and Alisha Hauber. Explore nature from the unique perspectives of these three artists through their distinct mediums, from acrylic paintings and photography to mixed media art.

Abbi Boutwell – Sioux City, IA
Abbi is an acrylic painter whose art is deeply rooted in a personal connection to nature. Inspired by the vibrant colors of sunrise and sunset, Abbi’s work celebrates the beauty of the natural world and emphasizes the importance of environmental preservation. In 2021, Abbi started prioritizing her art, diving into the depths of her creativity to produce paintings that serve as a reminder to cherish and protect our environment.

Amelia Hansen – Orange City, IA
Originally from the Algona area, Amelia is a hobbyist photographer with a keen eye for capturing the beauty in wildlife, nature, and abandoned properties. When not working in the fields, Amelia explores the landscapes of Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota, revealing the hidden gems of these states through her stunning photographs. Her work invites viewers to appreciate the simple, yet profound beauty of our surroundings.

Alisha Hauber – Orange City, IA
A Creative Administrative Assistant at Orange City Arts and originally from Watertown, SD, Alisha blends her organizational skills with a deep love for art. She dabbles in painting, photography, crochet, and various other mediums, with a particular focus on abstract works featuring flowers, trees, and space. Alisha’s art reflects her passion for creativity and her desire to glorify God through her work.

#Stadscentrum #ArtExhibition #FeaturedArtists #AbbiBoutwell #AmeliaHansen #AlishaHauber #AcrylicPainting #Photography #AbstractArt #CommunityEvent #ExploreNature

Featured Artists in Stadscentrum – Explore Nature

By Alisha Hauber | August 12, 2024

Arts on Central & Chalk Art Competition

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 20:59:00 GMT

The Orange City Arts Council is excited to join efforts with the Orange City Chamber to bring you the annual festival, Arts on Central! This vibrant event will occur on Wednesday, August 21, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Central Avenue in Orange City. As we conclude the summer and the OnStage season, we invite everyone for an evening of festivities and fun.

Central Avenue will be bustling with a variety of activities and entertainment for all ages. Local businesses will participate, offering a community meal and a range of entertainment. Highlights of the event include:

Street Dance: Music by Jammin’ Entertainment, dance the evening away in the heart of downtown.
Touch-a-Truck : Get up close and personal with unique and large automobiles.
Carnival Activities : All-Kids-Can OCA will bring exciting carnival games and activities for children.
Crafts and Face Painting: Enjoy creative crafts and face painting, perfect for kids and families.
Art Display: Local artists- Abbi Boutwell, Amelia Hansen and Alisha Hauber.
Chalk Art Competition: Compete to create chalk art and win prizes
Rootbeer Floats by Sekisui Aerospace

Sign-up to take part in the Chalk Art Competition , transform the sidewalks at Windmill Park into a vibrant museum of chalk art, and compete for exciting prizes. Both individual artists and groups of up to four people are welcome to participate. Registration is required (free). Come celebrate a fun and colorful evening with us, showcasing community talent and encouraging creativity in people of all ages and abilities through this unique art form.

Both individual artists and groups of up to four people are welcome to participate. Registration is Required (free).

Visit the Chalk Art Competition FAQ page or call for more information.

Arts on Central & Chalk Art Competition

By orangecityarts | August 6, 2024

Orange City Arts OnStage Lineup July 2024

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 17:35:00 GMT

Orange City, Iowa – Orange City Arts is thrilled to announce an exceptional lineup for the July summer concert series at Windmill Park. Join us for a month of music, theater, and community spirit, featuring a variety of performances to suit all tastes. The Orange City Arts July 2024 Lineup starts with Hollander Jazz on July 3rd, Community Band on July 10th and 24th, Shakespeare in the Park by Starling Shakespeare on July 15th, Becky Schlegel, July 17th, and String Showdown on July 31. All concerts are free and start at 7 pm in Windmill Park, downtown Orange City. Featured Artists will be displayed in Stadscentrum at 203 Central AVE NW until July 11th. Check out our website for more information about the Art show.

Full of some of the most talented musicians in Northwest Iowa, Hollander Jazz will play July 3rd , Made up of band directors, private instructors, community members, and more, Hollander Jazz is a group of dedicated performers who love to play jazz. This performance will feature some of the country’s most beloved patriotic tunes.

The popular Orange City Community Band will play on July 10th and 24th . About 50 members strong, the Community Band rehearses and plays together throughout the summer. Led by MOC-FV High School Band Director Dan Mangold, the Band is comprised of a wide range of ages and ability levels and is built on the philosophy that music can continue to be a regular part of life for all of us. July 10th is also Orange City Appreciation Day.

Don’t miss the special MONDAY performance on July 15th of “Henry IV” by Starling Shakespeare . Follow Prince Hal, a young man torn between his wild life with the mischievous Sir John Falstaff and his responsibilities as the future king. As civil war brews, meet the fierce Hotspur, whose rebellion challenges the kingdom. Watch as Hal matures from a carefree youth into a responsible leader, balancing loyalty and honor. Join us for a story of rebellion, redemption, and the journey toward greatness in this classic history play. A coming-of-age story filled with action-packed battle sequences and lots of drama! Performed by members of the Starling Shakespeare Company, a non-profit theater company whose touring performances explore the playfulness, complexity, and humanity in the plays of William Shakespeare and his contemporaries. With only 5 actors, Starling’s shows are fast-paced, playful, and nimble interpretations of the Bard’s classic plays. And at only 90 minutes, they’re perfect for date night or an evening out with the family! Starling Shakespeare is based out of Coldwater Michigan.

New to the OC Stage is Becky Schlegel on July 17th . Hailing from Minnesota, Becky’s music is original, drawing on the influence of classic country, bluegrass, folk, and her own thoughtful spirit. Becky’s incredible voice floats, whispers then soars above music of the highest quality. She takes her listeners on a musical journey, exploring new places and meeting new people in every song.

Introducing The String Showdown on July 31st , a thrilling dueling string act led by Greg Byers and Mike Lauer. Join them on a melodic journey spanning multiple decades and genres. But the String Showdown is more than just a performance; it’s an interactive, humor-infused spectacle that ensures audiences of all ages remain thoroughly engaged and amused.

Visit our Events Page for a complete listing of summer events and to learn more about the artists mentioned in this post.

Orange City Arts OnStage Lineup July 2024

By Alisha Hauber | July 1, 2024

June 2024 OnStage Lineup

Tue, 14 May 2024 09:00:00 GMT

Orange City, Iowa – The Orange City Arts June 2024 Lineup continues with Community Band on June 12, Hollander Jazz on June 19, and Omaha Street Percussion on June 26 . All concerts are free and start at 7 pm in Windmill Park , downtown Orange City.

The popular Orange City Community Band will play on June 12 . About 40 members strong, the Community Band rehearses and plays together throughout the summer. Led by MOC-FV High School Band Director Dan Mangold, the Band is comprised of a wide range of ages and ability levels and is built on the philosophy that music can continue to be a regular part of life for all of us. Band members are paid for rehearsals and performances and are an important part of the Onstage program.

Full of some of the most talented musicians in Northwest Iowa, Hollander Jazz will play June 19, featuring favorite big band and combo jazz music with outstanding instrumental and vocal soloists. They meet regularly to practice and perform around Siouxland at different events. Made up of band directors, private instructors, community members, and more, Hollander Jazz is a group of dedicated performers who love to play jazz.

Wrapping up the June OnStage Lineup for 2024 is the Omaha Street Percussion on June 26 . OSP started with an effort to raise funds for a member to Adopt his son from South Korea. Then, the guys noticed an interest in the activity, so they formed the group and named it Omaha Street Percussion. OSP has performed over 1,000 local and regional shows, including festivals, corporate events, school assemblies, and the occasional street corner performance. They continue to work with dozens of schools hosting both assemblies and workshops. This performance is sponsored by Security National Bank and Van Engelehoven Insurance.

Visit our Events Page for a complete listing of summer events and to learn more about the artists mentioned in this post.

June 2024 OnStage Lineup

By Alisha Hauber | May 14, 2024

OnStage 2024 KickOff: Richie Lee and the Fabulous 50’s

Mon, 13 May 2024 09:00:00 GMT

Orange City, Iowa – Orange City Arts is proud to once again host the rock and roll band, Richie Lee & the Fabulous 50’s at the Windmill Park downtown on June 5, 2024 at 7:00 P.M for the 2024 OnStage Kickoff. This event is sponsored by American State Bank.

This OnStage event is an occasion for all ages. Richie Lee & the Fabulous 50s seek to bring rock and roll music back to life and inspire the younger generation. The band’s motive is to stay true to the original sound of the covers they play and to create a joyful atmosphere and a sense of nostalgia. The Fabulous 50’s feature Richie Lee, Hank Muzney, and Justin Cramer who all blend vocals with the guitar, keyboard, bass, drums.

Bringing back songs from Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Ricky Nelson, and the Beach Boys, Richie Lee will showcase the variety of the rock genre and the sounds that captivated hearts many years ago.

Visit our Events Page for a complete listing of summer events.

OnStage 2024 KickOff: Richie Lee and the Fabulous 50’s

By Alisha Hauber | May 13, 2024

2024 Regional Art Show

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 16:51:00 GMT

The 2024 Regional Art Exhibition showcases various works by regional artists from Iowa, South Dakota, and Minnesota from April 2 – 20 at the NWC DeWitt Theatre Arts Building. This year’s juror is David Platter, Associate professor of art and design at Dordt University. Awards were presented at the closing reception on April 20. The ‘Honorable Mention’ prize was awarded to Jennifer Kuipers for her piece “Winter Rains, Highway 44”, and the winner for “Best in Show” went to Luis Guzmán-Montano for his piece “The Root of Life”. Thank you to all the artists who participated in this year’s event.

To view the current show online, visit the 2024 Regional Art Show page .

Additional group and solo show opportunities are available in the Summer 2024 (June, July & August), please contact us if interested.

2024 Regional Art Show

By orangecityarts | April 8, 2024

Téada, Direct from Ireland

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 03:25:00 GMT

Orange City Arts presents the traditional Irish band Téada, who will be performing at 7:30 pm on March 8, 2024, at the Prairie Winds Event Center in Orange City, IA.

Get ready to be transported to the magical world of traditional Irish music with the incredible Téada ! This talented group of musicians is renowned for their captivating performances and authentic sound. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the genre, Teada’s concert is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Hailing from Ireland, Téada has been enchanting audiences around the globe with its unique blend of traditional tunes and contemporary arrangements. Their mastery of instruments such as the fiddle, flute, accordion, and bodhrán will leave you in awe. Prepare yourself for foot-stomping jigs, soulful ballads, and lively reels that will have you dancing in your seat.

A traditional band with a truly worldwide reach, Téada has appeared as a frequent headliner at major music festivals throughout the US, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Africa, Russia, the Middle East, and Australia. Highlights include a 30,000-capacity stadium concert in Brittany, performances at the Penang World Music Festival in Malaysia, the Edmonton Folk Festival in Canada, the Harare International Festival of the Arts in Zimbabwe, and the Rainforest World Music Festival in Borneo. In 2014, the band performed to 40,000 people during an extensive 7-week tour of Japan / Taiwan and continues to have a strong touring presence in the United States, where Téada has toured actively since 2001. May 2022 brought the release of the band’s new album on the Gael Linn label, featuring an exciting vocal collaboration with Hollywood actor & singer John C. Reillyin in addition to the band’s customary reenergising of rare tunes from the tradition. Legendary Kerry singer and accordionist Séamus Begley, Téada’s vocalist since 2012, sadly passed away in January 2023, a great loss to Téada and the entire musical community. Notable festival appearances in 2023 included the Savannah Music Festival, Montana Folk Festival, Festival Interceltique de Lorient (Brittany,) and Irish Festival of Oulu(Finland), with the band set to return to Dublin Irish Festival, Ohio in Summer 2024.

Before the public concert, Téada will perform a shorter program for the Landsmeer Ridge Retirement Community residents. Support for this entire event is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council, which exists within the Iowa Economic Development Authority.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to witness Teada live in concert. Get ready for an evening filled with joy, passion, and a celebration of Irish culture through music. Mark your calendars now because this is one performance you won’t want to miss!

Tickets for the evening performance are $25 for adults and $15 for students and are available for purchase online here or at the door. For more information, call 712-707-4510. Cash bar, limited seating.

Téada, Direct from Ireland

By orangecityarts | February 7, 2024

An Enchanted Evening Fundraising Event, Feb 10th, 2024

Sat, 23 Dec 2023 21:05:00 GMT

Mark your calendars for February 10th, 2024 – an evening filled with enchantment awaits you! Join us at this remarkable event where local singers will grace the stage with their incredible talents. Together, let us create an unforgettable night while making a difference in supporting Orange City Arts.

The evening will be one of music, hors d’oeuvres, wine (and other non-alcoholic refreshments), and Broadway tunes sung by individuals from our talented local community.

A social hour is from 6:30-7:30 pm for food and drinks while listening and enjoying beautiful music being played, and musicians from the area entertain you. The concert will begin at 7:30 pm.

Performances include the infamous 4-part harmony quartets from Music Man, sung by Ed Starkenburg, Tim Van Voorst, Greg Steggerda, and Mike Noteboom, and State Fair, sung by Greg Steggerda, Jack Bonnecroy, Drew Lemke, and Jim Bonnecroy.

Incredible soloists have chosen a favorite Broadway tune to perform:

Amanda Lemke-Me and the Sky from Come From Away, Drew Lemke- Luck Be A Lady Tonight from Guys and Dolls, Andrew Harcum- Evermore from Beauty and the Beast, Brandon Miller- When Words Fail from Shrek, Linda Dykstra- Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again from Phantom of the Opera, Jenness Wolgen- I’m Just a Girl Who Cain’t Say No from Oklahoma, Amanda Haverdink- Defying Gravity from Wicked, Angela Riedeman- All That Jazz from Chicago, Tom Toel-To Dream the Impossible Dream from Man of LaMancha, Mike Noteboom- On the Street Where You Live from My Fair Lady, Jim Bonnecroy-Till There Was You from Music Man, Jack Bonnecroy- Bring Him Home from Les Miserables, Ashlyn Vander Stelt- Don’t Rain on My Parade from Funny Girl, Corky Koerselman- Oh! What a Beautiful Morning from Oklahoma, Donna Muilenburg- Climb Every Mountain from The Sound Of Music, Christie Conover- Somewhere over the Rainbow from Wizard of Oz, JoLynn Van Steenwyk- You’ll Never Walk Alone from Carousel, Nancy Landegent Vos- Far From the Home I Love from Fiddler, and Rebecca Mangold singing ‘I Wanna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair’ from South Pacific.

We also have three dynamic duets sung by: David Janssen and Jonathan Foster- Agony from Into the Woods, Dennis Rockhill and Abby Rockhill Beckler- All I Ask of You from Phantom of the Opera, and Susan Veltkamp and Jadeyn Sjaarda- For Good from Wicked.

Dawn Steggerda and Pam Anderson will accompany each number and provide special music during Social Hour. Emily Toel will also favor us with selections on her clarinet during Social Hour. Emcee is long-time arts supporter Char Ten Clay.

This fundraiser supports our 2024 Performance Fund, which brings artists to the summer OnStage concert series and provides art workshops for children.

Tickets for reserved seating are available for purchase on our website or by calling 712-707-4510 . (Seating is limited).

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy exceptional musical performances while contributing towards a cause close to our hearts. We look forward to welcoming you on February 10th as we come together for an extraordinary night of music and philanthropy!

Food provided by Orange City Area Health Systems and Susie Hofman.

An Enchanted Evening Fundraising Event, Feb 10th, 2024

By orangecityarts | December 23, 2023

Start Your Holidays with Hollander Jazz

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 00:59:00 GMT

Orange City Arts Council is hosting an evening of holiday and favorite jazz tunes by local band Hollander Jazz on Saturday, November 25, at 7:30 p.m. at the Unity Knight Center in Orange City.

Kick off the holiday season with Hollander Jazz ! Created and directed by Drew Lemke, Hollander Jazz started with the summer OnStage concerts in Orange City. They have made many appearances in the Siouxland region, offering a variety of music, and specializing in big band dances and combo jazz. With vocals and instruments like the saxophone, trumpet, keyboard, guitar, and trombone all at once, audience members will get a full range of music and will be entertained throughout the whole performance.

The members of Hollander Jazz are made up of band directors, private instructors, and community members in Northwest Iowa. Each of them brings something different to the array of music being played yet each is deeply passionate about connecting jazz music with the community. They will often play and sing songs from Michael Buble, Frank Sinatra, and even familiar pop songs.

Admission for the show is $15 for adults, $10 for students, and free for children aged 5 and under. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door, for more information on the event visit our Events page.

Start Your Holidays with Hollander Jazz

By orangecityarts | October 31, 2023

2023-24 MainStage Season

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 23:50:00 GMT

The 2023-24 MainStage season begins with The Beauty of Colors , a concert celebrating diversity, featuring mezzo-soprano Melody Wilson with NWC professor Juyeon Kang on the piano. Wilson has gained recognition as an accomplished operatic artist in the United States and Europe, equally celebrated in classic and contemporary repertory. Praised for her “rich voice and great acting chops” (St Louis Post-Dispatch), her “smoky mezzo-soprano and stately deportment” (Opera News), and her “beautiful voice and well-honed technique” (San Francisco Classical Voice), she’s been hailed for performances that “reign supreme” (St Louis Magazine) and for her “fine comic work” (Broadway World). In 2023-24, she will appear in Wagner all over the United States, making her Lyric Opera of Chicago debut as Mary in Der Fliegende Holländer and returning to Seattle Opera as Fricka in Das Rheingold and to the Dallas Symphony as Roßweiße in Die Walküre. A presentation and masterclass will take place on October 18 at NWC and the public performance will be on October 19, at 7:30 pm in NWC Christ Chapel. This event is hosted by NWC and Orange City Arts and funded in part by the Gilchrist Foundation.

Next up is local band Hollander Jazz performing a repertoire of holiday and classic jazz hits on November 27, 2023, at the Unity Knight Center. The talented instrumentalists and vocalists in Hollander Jazz provide entertainment for all ages and are a favorite of many. This concert is a great way to start the holiday season.

The new year will start out with our annual An Evening of Dance , on January 27, 2024, featuring local dance groups dazzling the audience with various dance forms. On February 10, 2024 , Orange City Arts will hold An Enchanted Evening , a fundraising event, with local performers singing their favorite musical songs. The proceeds will benefit the Orange City Arts 2024 Performance Fund which helps pay for artist performances and other arts programs during the 2024 season.

To finish off the MainStage season, the traditional Irish band Téada will be performing on March 8, 2024 , at the Prairie Winds Event Center. This stunning evening features riveting music, heartfelt songs, dynamic dance, and captivating stories centered around the beautiful traditions of Ireland. A band with a truly worldwide reach, Téada has appeared as a frequent headliner at major music festivals throughout the US, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Africa, Russia, the Middle East, and Australia. Highlights include a 30,000-capacity stadium concert in Brittany, along with performances at the Penang World Music Festival in Malaysia, the Edmonton Folk Festival in Canada, the Harare International Festival of the Arts in Zimbabwe, and the Rainforest World Music Festival in Borneo. In 2014, the band performed to 40,000 people during an extensive 7-week tour of Japan/Taiwan and continues to have a strong touring presence in the United States, where Téada has toured actively since 2001. Support for this event is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council, which exists within the Iowa Economic Development Authority.

Orange City Arts Council continues to promote and engage all forms of art in the community. For more information on these events and to purchase tickets, visit the Events Page .

2023-24 MainStage Season

By orangecityarts | October 30, 2023

The Beauty of Colors

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 18:44:00 GMT

Orange City Arts and NWC to host Mezzo-Soprano Melody Wilson

Orange City Arts (OC Arts) and Northwestern College Music Department (NWC) will host mezzo-soprano Melody Wilson from October 18 – 19, 2023 . Wilson will present a storytelling session and lead a 30-minute master class on October 18 at Northwestern College. Ms. Wilson will work with several local high school and NWC music students, demonstrating some sound and vocal techniques to help the students improve their performances. A public performance accompanied by NWC professor and pianist Juyeon Kang will occur on October 19 at 7:30 p.m. in Christ Chapel . The “The Beauty of Colors” concert will reflect how the performers bring beautiful music while embracing diversity. The performance brings exceptional artistry and musicianship of world-class professional musicians to the community.

The program features “5 Canciones Negras” (5 Black songs) by Xavier Montsalvatge in Spanish, four German Lied (art songs) by Richard Strauss, three opera arias – one in Italian by Pietro Mascagni and two in French by Georges Bizet and Camille Saint-Saëns- as well as two spirituals and an English art song. These selections reflect various musical cultures through the languages and styles.

About Melody Wilson
With her warm, richly timbre voice, mezzo-soprano Melody Wilson has quickly made a name for herself in the USA and Europe. In 2023-24, she makes important debuts at Carnegie Hall with Mozart’s Requiem as well as with the Lyric Opera of Chicago as Mary in Der fliegende Holländer and with Atlanta Opera as Hermia in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. She also performs Rossweisse in Die Walküre with Dallas Symphony and Sanctuary Road at the Bach Festival in Orlando.

Melody Wilson has received recognition as an accomplished operatic artist in both classic and contemporary repertory in the United States and Europe. Ms. Wilson is a five-time recipient of the Jessye Norman Fellowship and a winner of the “Gabriela Benacková Competition” in Prague (2016) and the “International Czech and Slovak Competition” (2009). Wilson holds undergraduate degrees in Music and Spanish from the University of Delaware, and a Master of Music and an Artist Diploma from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. She hails from Newark, Delaware, and is based in Vienna, Austria.

About Juyeon Kang

An award-winning concert pianist and professor of music at Northwestern College, Dr. Juyeon Kang released a recording, “Joyful Praise,” in 2022. Comprised of 15 pieces, this work was created to bring healing and comfort through the power of music to those who are wounded and suffering. A member of the Northwestern College faculty since 2003, Dr. Kang earned a bachelor’s degree in music at Seoul National University and master’s and doctoral degrees in piano performance and literature, as well as a master’s degree in pedagogy of music theory at Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York. Additionally, she received a prestigious artist diploma in piano performance from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston and served as part of the faculty in the college division.

Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for students . Free for children age 5 & under. NWC faculty and students are free with NWC ID.

Tickets are available for purchase online or at the door.

This event is sponsored by Orange City Arts and Northwestern College and funded in part by the Gilchrist Foundation.

The Beauty of Colors

By orangecityarts | September 20, 2023

2023 Youth Art Showcase

Sat, 12 Aug 2023 16:29:00 GMT

The Orange City Arts Youth Art Showcase offers an opportunity for young artists to exhibit their work August 14 – 30, 2023, at the Stadscentrum Building in downtown Orange City IA. Twenty-eight works by local youth artists between the ages of 6 to 17 years old will be on display inside the Stadscentrum Building in downtown Orange City, IA. Prizes for Best of Show & Honorable Mention were given in each age category and awarded on August 30 at 6 pm during Arts on Central, the end-of-the-season celebration.

View Online Gallery

2023 Youth Art Show Award Winners

6 – 9 Age Group

Honorable Mention – Jonathan Spaan, “Superhero Kaleidoscope”
Best in Show – Vivian Adams, “Adams Family at Adams Homestead”

10 – 14 Age Group

Honorable Mention – Abigail DeVries, “Oto”
Best in Show – June Van Gorp, “Blue Animals (Bluey and Sapphire)”

15 – 17 Age Group

Honorable Mention – Sarah Groen, “Only Human”
Best in Show – Sarah Diekevers, “Tulip”

2023 Youth Art Showcase

By orangecityarts | August 12, 2023

Featured Artist Yuliia Popova

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 18:10:00 GMT

Orange City Arts is hosting a show for local artist Yuliia Popova on July 5 – 19, 2023 .

Since childhood, Yullia has felt a vocation and love for painting. Her artistic career began at the Art School in Poltava in 2004-2010 and then continued at the Poltava National Pedagogical University named after V.G.Korolenko, Department of Psychology and Pedagogy, Department of Fine and Decorative Arts (2010-2015). She has been a winner of many all-Ukrainian and regional painting contests and competitions. Since 2015, Yuliia has been working as a methodologist for visual arts in the Poltava regional department of educational institutions of Culture and Art and as a painting, drawing, and composition teacher at Chutivtsi Children’s art school. In addition to teaching, she took an active part in the activities of the city’s creative community and was a member of the jury of many regional children’s competitions.

The artist’s homeland Ukraine, a country with a turbulent fate, has deep roots in ancient times. Ukraine is about 1200 years old, and historical changes have shaped the modern state and its identity. Ukraine is a fertile, fruitful, and prosperous land. Over the centuries, her homeland has been under pressure from different sides, and she hopes for a prosperous future for Ukraine.

Yuliia states, “After the war began, living, working, and creating became almost impossible. My husband Vova and I are eternally grateful to God, the First Reformed Church, and the family of Brian and Patty De Kock for the opportunity to feel safe and feel the hospitality of America and the love of God. America will always be the country that sustained me through the most challenging times. America suddenly became the fertile ground on which my art began blossoming with the colors you see in my paintings. My dream is for my images to vibrate with the inspiration of nature and flowers, with the grandeur of all the beauty created by God.”

Yuliia’s work is currently on display from July 5 to July 19 inside the Stadscentrum building located on Central Ave in downtown Orange City, IA . Several pieces of work are also for sale. You can follow Yullia’s work on Instagram at @yulia_popova25.

Viewing Hours:

July 5 (5 – 8 pm), July 7 (noon – 4 pm), July 12 (5 – 8 pm), July 13 (5 -7 pm)

Check back for hours the week of July 16.

Featured Artist Yuliia Popova

By orangecityarts | July 11, 2023

Call For Art- 2023 Youth Art Showcase

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 20:41:00 GMT

Orange City Arts Youth Art Showcase offers an opportunity for young artists to exhibit their work August 14 – 23, 2023, at the Stadscentrum Building in downtown Orange City IA. Local artists between the ages of 6 to 17 years old, residing within a 40-mile radius of Orange City, IA are invited to submit work to the juried exhibition. There is no entry fee or theme. Prizes for Best of Show & Honorable Mention will be given in each age category.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE : August 7, 2023, by midnight CST

VENUE : Stadscentrum Building, 201 Central Ave, Orange City, IA 51041 (next to Crafts Central)

For more detailed information and to submit artwork, visit the FAQ page or click on the ‘Enter Show’ button. Questions? Contact us at 712-707-4510 or email info@orangecityarts.org.

Call For Art- 2023 Youth Art Showcase

By orangecityarts | July 4, 2023

July OnStage Lineup

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 18:38:00 GMT

Orange City, Iowa – The Orange City Arts summer programs continue with the July OnStage music lineup, featured artists in Stadscentrum, and the children’s theater workshop.

The Orange City Arts summer programs continue with the July OnStage music lineup featuring Hollander Jazz on July 5, Community Band on July 12 & 26, and Dennis Warner & the Ds on July 19 . All concerts are free and start at 7 pm in Windmill Park , downtown Orange City.

Full of some of the most talented musicians in Northwest Iowa, Hollander Jazz will play July 5, featuring favorite big band and combo jazz music with outstanding instrumental and vocal soloists. Wednesday, July 5, will also be the opening of featured artist Yuliia Popova ‘s show inside the Stadscentrum building. Yuliia, a native of Ukraine, is an artist, art teacher, and methodologist for visual arts in the Poltava Regional Department of educational institutions of Culture and Art in Ukraine. Her work will be on display in July.

The famous Orange City Community Band will play twice in Windmill Park on July 12 and July 26 . Minnesota native folk artist Dennis Warner is back this year playing with the full band, the Ds, on July 19. Warner and the Ds will bring up-tempo songs, audience participation, and engaging humorous stories to the evening.

In addition to the music in the park, the summer children’s theater workshop, The Vanishing of the Jolly Roger, runs July 10 – 14 at the NWC DeWitt Theater building. A final performance by the students will take place July 14 at 6:30 pm at the DeWitt Theater. Spots are still available for the workshop. To learn more or to sign up, visit the workshop listing here.

Visit our Events Page for a complete listing of summer events and to learn more about the artists mentioned in this post.

July OnStage Lineup

By orangecityarts | July 3, 2023

2023 Regional Art Exhibition

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 19:28:00 GMT

The Orange City Arts 11th annual artist’s showcase, 2023 Regional Art Exhibition: Primary Colors, runs June 5 – 21, 2023, in Orange City, IA. This year’s theme is titled ‘Primary Colors,’ in which at least one of the primary colors (red, blue, yellow) is used as a primary artistic element. The show features thirty-one works of art which will be displayed at the Stadscentrum building in downtown Orange City.

This year’s juror for the show is a local artist and Professor Emeritus of Art at Northwestern College Rein Vanderhill. The closing reception was held on Wednesday, June 21, where awards were given to Ryan Eckert, Best in Show for ‘Trapped Clouds’ and to Brian Joel Damon, Honorable Mention for ‘Introspective Intensity’.

The show is still available to view online here .

2023 Regional Art Exhibition

By orangecityarts | June 22, 2023

The 2023 OnStage Season Kicks off June 7

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 17:24:00 GMT

Orange City, Iowa – The Orange City Arts 2023 OnStage season will kick off with Richie Lee & the
Fabulous ’50s at Windmill Park on June 7 and feature the Regional Art Show, June 5 – 21 at the
Stadscentrum building in downtown Orange City.

Orange City Arts is proud to host once again the rock and roll band Richie Lee & the Fabulous
50s at Windmill Park downtown on June 7, 2023, at 7:00 P.M. This event will launch the Art Council’s 2023 OnStage season. It will begin at 5:00 P.M. with various food trucks, including the Regional Art Show featuring local and regional artists’ works which will be on display in the Stadscentrum building in downtown Orange City. Richie Lee will perform at 7:00 P.M., bringing back classic rock and roll hits.

Before the music begins, art enthusiasts can enjoy the 2023 Regional Art Show, which features thirty-one works of art by local and regional artists, coordinating with this year’s theme, ‘Primary Colors.’ The show runs June 5 – 21, with a closing reception on June 21 at 6 pm, when awards will be presented.

Richie Lee & the Fabulous 50s will showcase the variety of the rock genre and the sounds that
captivated hearts many years ago. The band seeks to bring rock and roll music back to life,
inspire the younger generation, stay true to the original sound of the covers they play, and
create a joyful atmosphere and a sense of nostalgia. The Fabulous 50s features Richie Lee, Tony
Halsrud, Hank Muzney, and Justin Cramer, who all blend vocals with the guitar, keyboard, bass,
and drums—bringing back songs from Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Ricky Nelson, and The Beach
Boys. This band is sure to please everyone of all ages.

Visit our Events Page for a complete listing of summer events.

The 2023 OnStage Season Kicks off June 7

By orangecityarts | June 2, 2023

Boston Brass Performing April 28

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 15:40:00 GMT

The Orange City Arts Council and Northwestern College proudly present Boston Brass, on April 28, 2023, at Christ Chapel at NWC . The performance begins at 7:30 pm and will feature music performed by Boston Brass. Additionally, several songs will be played by the NWC Symphonic Band and local high school musicians.

For over 30 years, Boston Brass has set out to establish a one-of-a-kind musical experience. From exciting classical arrangements to burning jazz standards and the best of original brass repertoire, Boston Brass treats audiences to a unique brand of entertainment that captivates all ages. The ensemble’s lively repartee, touched with humor and personality, bridges the ocean of classical formality to delight audiences with great music and boisterous fun. The philosophy of Boston Brass is to provide audiences with a wide selection of musical styles in unique arrangements while maintaining a friendly and fun atmosphere. The quintet plays to audiences at concert halls, educational institutions, and music festivals and regularly collaborates with orchestras, concert and marching bands, organists, jazz bands, and a variety of other ensembles.

The Boston Brass has been featured as educators and performers at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, World Association for Symphonic Bands and Ensembles, Music Educators National Conference events, American Bandmaster Association Conference, The American Band College, Western International Band Clinic, and at the Texas Bandmasters Association Convention. They have performed in all 50 US states and 30 countries. They have conducted masterclasses around the world, including sessions and residencies at the Eastman School of Music, The Juilliard School, Shepherd School of Music at Rice University, Peabody Conservatory of Music, University of North Texas, Royal Academy of Music in London, Yong Siew Toh Conservatory at the National University of Singapore, and Mahidol University in Bangkok.

Their newest recording Simple Gifts, features new and exciting classical and jazz arrangements. Latin Nights feature a collection of some of the greatest classical and jazz works by Latin composers and performers and features the legendary drummer Steve Gadd, the beautiful voice of Talita Real, plus percussion and guitar.

Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for students. Advance tickets can be purchased on our website here .

Boston Brass Performing April 28

By orangecityarts | March 20, 2023

ILLUSIONIST JETT SKRIEN TO PERFORM ON MARCH 25, 2023

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 16:09:00 GMT

Orange City Arts Council presents Illusionist Jett Skrien at 7:00 pm on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at the Unity Christian Knight Center.

Jett Skrien entered the world of illusion at age 10, becoming a highly sought-after performer due to his innovative, engaging, and spectacular performances. At the age of 15, he made a name for himself, performing around the United States and landing significant shows for large corporations and events.

Jett has had the opportunity to perform internationally in Canada and Europe, as well as in the entertainment capital of the United States: Branson, Missouri, for a one-year residency. One of his top accomplishments is attending a summer magic camp in Pennsylvania, where he was selected to

learn the art of magic from superstars such as David Blaine, Criss Angel, David Copperfield, and Michael Carbonaro.

Currently, Jett is continuing his journey, learning more about the art of performance and technology. He is working towards a degree in theatre, business, and bio-health professions at Northwestern College in Orange City. “I was able to learn that the most important part of a show is the connection between the performer and the audience, regardless of one’s skill level.”

Jett’s shows are more than just magic; they are intriguing, engaging, and captivating. People of all ages will enjoy the whole experience with state-of-the-art illusions and full-scale lighting and sound, making his show one to remember.

General admission is $20 for adults, $15 for students, and $5 for children aged five and under. Tickets are available for purchase online here or at the door. Visit our Events Page for more information.

ILLUSIONIST JETT SKRIEN TO PERFORM ON MARCH 25, 2023

By orangecityarts | February 16, 2023

ANNUAL ‘AN EVENING OF DANCE’ – JANUARY 14, 2023

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 16:31:00 GMT

ORANGE CITY – The Orange City Arts Council presents the annual An Evening of Dance featuring local dancers from Orange City, Sioux Center, Sheldon, and surrounding communities. The show will be held at the Unity Christian Knight Center on Saturday, January 14, 2023.

Orange City Arts offers this event each year to celebrate the art of dance and share the dancers’ talents with the community. The 7:00 p.m. performance will feature a variety of dance styles under the leadership of dance instructors Ashley Schiebout, Unity Christian High School Dance Team (Orange City), Robin VanEs, Robin’s School of Dance (Sioux Center), Georgia Walker, Illuminate Dance Project (Sheldon), Julia Vander Stelt, Elite Dance and Fitness (Orange City) and Natalie Schouten, MOC-FV High School Dance Team (Orange City).

Dancers of various ages will demonstrate their skill and artistry through a mix of jazz, hip-hop, tap, and modern dance.

General admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students, and free for children aged five and under. Tickets are available for purchase online or at the door. Visit our Event Page for information.

ANNUAL ‘AN EVENING OF DANCE’ – JANUARY 14, 2023

By orangecityarts | December 21, 2022

Happy Holidays

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 01:20:00 GMT

As 2022 comes to a close, we would like to thank you for supporting us throughout the year. It was a great success, and we couldn’t have done it without the support of our generous sponsors and community members!

Ways to Support Us

Give the gift of artistic enjoyment with an Orange City Arts Gift Certificate.
Support our Performance Fund for MainStage and OnStage programs. Donate Today
Volunteer your time Sign Up

Art for the Holidays

Support local and regional artists by purchasing some holiday gifts!

Artists

Judy Thompson
Watercolor prints and originals, dutch postcards
Website: judythompsonwatercolors.com
Online: https://www.judythompsonwatercolors.com/purchase-info.html
Upcoming Show: Confluence, Jan 12- Feb 22, 2023, at Dordt University, Sioux Center IA

Barb Thompson
www.bthompson.studio
Watercolor prints, originals, notecards, notebooks, wrapping paper
Show: Urbandale Art Gallery, View Barb’s work here

Lacey Eidem
Lacey Eidem Art: Original paintings, prints, stickers, magnets, keychains
Website: www.lacey-eidem.squarespace.com
View art at Center for the Arts Gift Gallery, St. Cloud MN

Jake Van Wyk
Ceramics, fine art prints, lithographs
Website: http://jakevanwyk.com/

Check out upcoming 2023 MainStage Events .

Happy Holidays

By orangecityarts | December 6, 2022

Orange City Arts Public Opinion Survey

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 19:39:00 GMT

Orange City Arts would like to invite the public to complete our Online Survey over the next few months. This information will assist us in developing our future programs for the next season. The survey is anonymous; however, you can enter to win 2 Free Tickets to one of our upcoming MainStage events by leaving your contact information.

Thank you for your participation and support!

Orange City Arts Public Opinion Survey

By orangecityarts | November 30, 2022

Start Your Holidays with Hollander Jazz

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 18:49:00 GMT

Join us for an evening of holiday favorites and swing music by local favorite Hollander Jazz on Saturday, November 26, at 7:30 pm at the Unity Knight Center.

Hollander Jazz is an organization full of some of the most talented musicians in Northwest Iowa! Hollander Jazz got its start in Orange City at the summer Onstage Series. The creator and coordinator of Hollander Jazz, Drew Lemke, is the middle school band director at MOC Floyd Valley Middle School in Alton, Iowa. The band members meet regularly to practice and perform around Siouxland at different events. They specialize in big band dances and combo jazz with outstanding instrumental and vocal soloists. Made up of band directors, private instructors, and community members, Hollander Jazz is a group of dedicated performers who love to play jazz and are some of the best musicians in the area!

To learn more about Hollander Jazz and their music, visit their website at https://www.hollanderjazz.com .

Admission: $15 Adults, $10 Students, Free for children age 5 & under. You can purchase tickets in advance online or at the door.

Take our Public Opinion Survey and get a chance to win 2 FREE TICKETS to a 2023 MainStage event of your choice!

Start Your Holidays with Hollander Jazz

By orangecityarts | October 31, 2022

Lightwire Theater to Perform in Orange City

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 17:25:00 GMT

Orange City Arts presents Lightwire Theater, The Adventures of Tortoise and Hare on October 28, 2022, at 7 pm at the Unity Knight Center in Orange City, Iowa.

In complete darkness, they transform the void into an electrified world of Aesop’s classic fable of the Tortoise and the Hare. Lightwire Theater is internationally known for its signature brand of electroluminescent technology storytelling. Lightwire Theater featured as semi-finalists on NBC’s America’s Got Talent show and winners of Tru TV’s Fake Off combines theater and technology to bring stories to life.

We begin with Aesop’s classic but continue the tale, which finds them ten years later with children of their own and exploring modern-day distractions. Smartphones and video games create a new landscape of lost connections to life experiences. The Next Gen features Tortoise Junior and L’ill Hare in a whole new kind of race where their adventures lead them to unexpected territory. Old man Tortoise and big daddy Hare must unite to save and find their children despite their differences.

With dazzling visuals, poignant storytelling, and the creative use of music from classical to pop, this production brings this tale into a new brilliant light!

Ticket prices for the show are $15 for adults, $10 for students, and $5 for children aged 5 & under. Tickets are available online at www.orangecityarts.org or call 712-707-4510 .

Lightwire Theater to Perform in Orange City

By orangecityarts | October 3, 2022

Wheels & Reels Movie Night: The BFG

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 08:25:00 GMT

Join us for a fun family night at the movies! The BFG is a fantasy adventure film about a 10-year-old orphaned girl named Sophie who befriends a benevolent giant dubbed the “Big Friendly Giant,” who takes her to Giant Country, where they attempt to stop the man-eating giants that are invading the human world. Directed and co-produced by Steven Spielberg. (2016)

Wheels & Reels Movie Night, The BFG
October 7 at 7:30 pm
Trinity Church parking lot
Admission: Food Drive Donation for the Orange City Area Food Pantry (non-perishables only)

The Orange City Area Food Pantry is hosted by American Reformed Church and supported by 17 partner churches, as well as numerous individuals and community businesses and organizations. Special distributions are made at Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and mid-summer.

This event is sponsored by Orange City Arts and Orange City Public Library.

Wheels & Reels Movie Night: The BFG

By orangecityarts | September 26, 2022

Iowa’s Poet Laureate Debra Marquart to Perform in Orange City

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 16:09:00 GMT

Orange City, IA – Iowa’s Poet Laureate, Debra Marquart, will perform at the Orange City Public Library on September 29, 2022, at 6 pm.

In partnership with the Orange City Public Library, Orange City Arts will host a free musical performance and poetry reading by Debra Marquart, a distinguished Professor of Liberal Arts & Sciences at Iowa State University. Marquart teaches in the MFA Program in Creative Writing and Environment and serves as Iowa’s Poet Laureate and the Senior Editor of Flyway: Journal of Writing & Environment . Marquart’s performance is a part of the program ‘ Sounding Our Place,’ a proposed series of experiential literary events that pair an interest in place, the natural world, and environmental issues with poetry/storytelling, songwriting, and creative writing workshops. These events will be planned around the state of Iowa and designed to reach communities in the rural corners and urban areas of the state that do not generally receive attention in arts programming to encourage creative expressive arts.

A memoirist, poet, and performing musician, Marquart is the author of seven books, including an environmental memoir of place, The Horizontal World: Growing Up Wild in the Middle of Nowhere , and a collection of poems, Small Buried Things: Poems . Marquart’s most recent book, The Night We Landed on the Moon: Essays Between Exile & Belonging published in 2021.

Marquart’s work has been featured on NPR and the BBC and has received over 50 grants and awards, including an NEA Fellowship, a PEN USA Award, a New York Times Editors’ Choice commendation, and Elle Magazine’s Elle Lettres Award. Marquart teaches in Iowa State University’s interdisciplinary MFA Program in Creative Writing and Environment and the Stonecoast Low-Residency MFA Program at the University of Southern Maine. Sounding Our Place events are made possible through the Academy of American Poets, Poets Laureate Fellowship.

To learn more about Debra Marquart and her writing, visit her website at https://debramarquart.com/ .

Iowa’s Poet Laureate Debra Marquart to Perform in Orange City

By orangecityarts | September 20, 2022

Orange City Arts Announces Fall MainStage Line Up

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 16:48:00 GMT

Orange City Arts announces its fall 2022 MainStage season lineup featuring family-friendly activities for the community to enjoy.

The MainStage season begins with a musical performance and poetry reading by Debra Marquart , a distinguished Professor of Liberal Arts & Sciences at Iowa State University. She teaches in the MFA Program in Creative Writing and Environment and serves as Iowa’s Poet Laureate and the Senior Editor of Flyway: Journal of Writing & Environment . In addition, Marquart is the author of seven books. Marquart’s work has been featured on NPR and the BBC and has received over 50 grants and awards, including an NEA Fellowship, a PEN USA Award, a New York Times Editors’ Choice commendation, and Elle Magazine’s Elle Lettres Award. The reading and performance will take place on September 29, 2022, at 6:00 pm at the Orange City Public Library and is free to the public.

On October 7, 2002 , Orange City Arts is partnering with the Orange City Public Library to present Wheels & Reels Movie Night featuring the movie The BFG at the Trinity Reformed Church parking lot. In addition, a non-perishable food donation is the entry fee to benefit a local food bank.

Lightwire Theater is back to present The Tortoise and Hare on October 28, 2022 . This classic Aesop fable with a modern twist brings spectacular visuals, poignant storytelling, and creative use of music from classical to pop. Lightwire Theater has been featured as semi-finalists on NBC America’s Got Talent and winners of Tru TV’s Fake Off. The group combines theater and technology to bring stories to life in complete darkness and is internationally known for its signature brand of electroluminescent technology.

To finish off the 2022 lineup, local band Hollander Jazz will perform a repertoire of holiday and classic jazz hits on November 26, 2022. The talented instrumentalists and vocalists in Hollander Jazz provide entertainment for all ages and are a favorite of many. This concert is a great way to start the holiday season!

The 2023 MainStage schedule will be announced at a later time. Check our Events Page for more information or to purchase tickets.

Orange City Arts Announces Fall MainStage Line Up

By orangecityarts | September 1, 2022

Arts on Central to take place on August 24

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 21:52:00 GMT

The Orange City Arts Council joins efforts with the Orange City Chamber to bring the annual festival, Arts on Central! The event will take place on Wednesday, August 24 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Central Avenue in Orange City will be filled with different festivities. This is a free event for all to attend as we conclude the summer and OnStage season.

Many activities will take place downtown as local businesses participate in this event as well. There will be multiple options for food and a variety of entertainment. Metro Machines Entertainment will host a street dance for all to enjoy. You will be able to see many unique and large automobiles up close (Touch-a-truck). All-Kids-Can OCA will bring about Carnival Activities as well.

Crafts and face painting will be available for kids to enjoy as well, or even as a fun family activity. Local artist, Rein Vanderhill will display his work in Stadcentrum and all are welcome to stop by and check out his artwork.

Finally, in celebration of our 45th Anniversary, we will once again do a raffle where you can win a few different prizes, including gift certificates from local businesses. Tickets are $1 and you may purchase as many as you want! Come and enjoy this final event for the summer to support the many local businesses and organizations in Orange City!

Arts on Central to take place on August 24

By admin | August 19, 2022

Comedy Duo, Allez-Oops! to perform & host a workshop on August 17

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 16:21:00 GMT

Something a little different is coming to Orange City to wrap up the On Stage summer concert series: Allez-Oops! Married duo, Rob Lok and Miss Jane bring back classic vaudeville acts – with a comedy twist! They will perform in Windmill Park on Wednesday, August 17 at 7:00 p.m.

Additionally, the comedy duo will offer a FREE kids workshop before the performance at 5:45 p.m. Kids of all ages are welcome to participate. The workshop will take place at the Windmill Park bandshell. This physical comedy workshop will allow participants to learn the trade of moving funny, being funny, and thinking funny! This is something your child will not want to miss out on and will be an experience they won’t forget.

Rob Lok and Miss Jane are a crowd favorite, meaning they don’t just provide entertainment to young kids. The two have performed in over 35 countries in all types of venues. They have even been featured on national television. Rob and Miss Jane understand the need for an engaging, electifying, and thrilling performance. To do this, they have tailored their performances to be understood in any language and at every age.

Blending circus thrills, deft pacing and spontaneous comedy, this family-friendly dialogue-free spectacle will surely leave you on the edge of your seat. To find out more information and learn more about the duo, visit their website here .

Orange City Arts will also offer another raffle in celebration of our 45th anniversary! Raffle tickets are $1.00 and will give you the chance to win some OC arts merchandise and a gift certificate to a local business. The winner will be announced at the end of the performance. Come out next Wednesday as we wrap up the OnStage season with fun, laughter, food, and free entertainment!

Comedy Duo, Allez-Oops! to perform & host a workshop on August 17

By admin | August 11, 2022

Rob and Miss Jane Productions

Will Kruger to Take the Stage on August 10

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 17:36:00 GMT

Singer/songwriter, guitarist, and entertainer Will Kruger will come to Orange City on Wednesday, August 10. He will perform at 7:00 P.M. in Windmill Park. Kruger’s performance will replace John Smith’s, as he could not attend due to illness.

Ever since his early teenage years, Will Kruger has been singing and playing the guitar as a way of exploring the simplicity, message, and melodies of folk music. His musical roots are inspired by James Taylor, Peter Paul & Mary, Simon & Garfunkel, John Denver, and Gordon Lightfoot.

Touring nationally for years, Kruger has performed in coffee houses, libraries, and conservation events all the way up to larger auditoriums. Sharing the stage with recognizable artists like Randy Stonehill and Roy Rivers, Kruger himself has been an appreciated performer that leaves audience members intrigued. Kruger has performed in front of sold-out crowds as his music is unique and universally appealing.

Recently, Kruger performed on a prestigious stage, Wheeler Opera House in Aspen, Colorado, for a John Denver Tribute. He has been recognized as a significant songwriter. He has had four of his songs featured in the Lazarus Film Works production of “God Where Are You?”

For more information on the artist and to listen to his music, visit https://www.willkruger.com/ .

Continuing our 45th Anniversary Celebration, we will continue our $1 Ticket Raffle, Membership Drive (free gift for new members), and Orange City Arts Merchandise ! Free Popcorn is provided by Atlas of Orange City !

If you want to become a member of Orange City Arts now, click the button below! Otherwise, come out and enjoy an exciting night in the park and participate in these many activities!

Will Kruger to Take the Stage on August 10

By admin | August 4, 2022

Orange City Arts Presents Final “First Wednesday” for OnStage

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 21:46:00 GMT

Orange City Arts’ First Wednesdays is a new program this year as a part of the summer OnStage series. The past two First Wednesdays have featured local artists in Stadcentrum, street performers, food trucks and a concert in the Windmill Bandshell. Bringing an extra dose of excitement and liveliness to the downtown area on Wednesday nights, community members of all ages come out to participate in the activities.

Orange City Arts Presents Final “First Wednesday” for OnStage

By admin | July 28, 2022

Kley De Jong Band

For this coming Wednesday, August 3rd, the Kley De Jong Band will perform at 7:00 p.m. for the free concert. This local band is from Orange City and blends nearly all genres of music. You will hear familiar hits from pop, rock, jazz, blues and even funk with some blistering electric guitar. This performance will easily be a hit for all ages and a great source of entertainment.

Accompanying this, featured artist, April Benson will display her work in Stadcentrum. The art show will begin at 5:00 p.m. and anyone is welcome to come and view some of the artist’s favorite pieces. Additionally, before the concert, there will be yoga in the park. Rae Minten will lead the yoga demonstration and share the details of this form of fitness.

In conclusion to all of this, the Orange City Arts Council will be celebrating their 45th anniversary beginning next week. T-shirts, tumblers, stickers and other fun merchandise will be available for purchase. A raffle will also be held at the event, where participants can enter to win some of these products and a gift certificate from a local business. With the chance to participate in a membership drive as well, people can enjoy different discounts and engage in a unique way to be more involved in the community and surrounding area.

If you want to become a member of Orange City Arts now, click the button below! Otherwise, come out and enjoy an exciting night in the park and participate in these many activities!

April Benson’s artwork ‘Grocery Store Carnation’

Community Band’s Final Performance for the Summer OnStage

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 16:05:00 GMT

The Orange City Area Community Band has performed twice for the Orange City Arts Council’s OnStage Season. The band will be coming back for one more performance of the season on July 27. The free concert will take place in Windmill Park in Orange City at 7:00 P.M.

The members of the Community Band are from Orange City and the surrounding areas. They are an important part of the OnStage program and are a favorite of many. As a part of their contribution, members get paid for both their performances and rehearsals. Dan Mangold, MOC-FV High School Band director, leads the members and coordinates performances. With a consistent thirty musicians that play, Community Band plays songs from movie soundtracks, big band hits, show tunes, and patriotic melodies that all have a personal touch.

This is made possible due to Orange City Arts Council’s many sponsors for the summer concert series. Visit our Home Page to view the many local businesses who have generously made these free concerts a possibility for the public. And most importantly, be sure to come downtown on Wednesday night for one last performance by Community Band!

Community Band’s Final Performance for the Summer OnStage

By admin | July 21, 2022

Compass Creative Theater to host Children’s Summer Workshop

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 19:49:00 GMT

Compass Creative Dramatics is coming to Orange City next week to bring a unique opportunity to students interested in the performing arts. The Chicago-based theatre company offers many different theatre experiences across the country. Their services include carrying out summer theater camps for children of all ages to participate in. Their five-day children’s workshop will take place Monday, July 25 – Saturday, July 30 at Northwestern College De Witt Theater Arts Building in Orange City, Iowa.

The rehearsals will be guided and taught by professional actors from Chicago. The students will have the opportunity to perform alongside these actors in the show as well. Two actors/educators will perform right next to the student actors. This will give the students the ability to learn by example yet still be able to make the role their own. Additionally, Compass Creative Dramatics provides all of the necessary elements for this production. They have professionally designed sets, music, props, sets, makeup and costumes, ensuring an unforgettable experience for the students.

By the end of the week, participants will be able to perform in the musical adaptation of the classic children’s story, Beauty and the Beast. The performances will be at 6:00 P.M. on Friday, July 29 and 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, July 30.

Tickets are $7 and can be purchased online or at the door.

GET TICKETS

Compass Creative Theater to host Children’s Summer Workshop

By admin | July 20, 2022

Dueling Fiddles to perform Wednesday July 20

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 18:43:00 GMT

Geneviève Salamone and Hanna Wolle make up the entertainment duo called Dueling Fiddles. The two violinists energetically mix the rich sounds of the violin for an entertaining performance. Playing everything from modern pop, classical music, to celtic rock, the Dueling Fiddles create music that all ages will enjoy.

Hanna Wolle is from Des Moines, Iowa and has established an impressive musical career. Beginning the violin at the age of four, Wolle emerged as a talented musician. At just fifteen years old, Wolle won a seat in the first violin section of the Des Moines Symphony. This named her the youngest violinist in the orchestra’s history. She is still currently playing for the Symphony and maintains her seat as first violinist.

Geneviève Salamone earned her spot on the Des Moines Symphony after attaining her bachelor’s degree in violin performance from McGill’s Schulich School of Music in Montreal, QC. Salamone was inspired by the term “One Man Band” as she merges technology with the classical sound of the violin. Now, she claims the title of a “One Woman Symphony.”

Geneviève and Hanna met on the Des Moines Symphony, where they got connected as stand partners. With their passion for music and shared desire to explore the boundaries of it, the two started Dueling Fiddles. It began as a project and has now morphed into a main stage performance act. The two musicians have now performed all over the Midwest together. Recently, they have had shows at the World Food and Music Festival, Bacon Fest and CelbrAsian. They perform over 75 events per year including weddings and corporate events as well.

Orange City Arts is thrilled to welcome the two artists to the stage on Wednesday, July 20. They will perform at 7:00 p.m. in Windmill Park. Be sure to come out and experience the entertaining Dueling Fiddles!

Dueling Fiddles to perform Wednesday July 20

By admin | July 14, 2022

Community Band to Perform July 13

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 18:59:00 GMT

The Orange City Area Community Band , a favorite of many Northwest Iowa residents, is performing a couple more times before the end of the summer! This group of local musicians will take the stage at 7 pm on Wednesday, July 13 in Windmill Park . Bringing classic hymns, musical masterpieces from movies and show tunes, and personalized patriotic songs perfect for the month of July, Community Band has a lot to offer its audience.

The band is under the direction of Dan Mangold who is also the MOC-FV high school band director. He leads the musicians in weekly rehearsals and band members even get paid for their participation in both rehearsals and performances. The OnStage program has allowed the band to get on its feet and has created awareness for local instrumentalists who want to play in a band and stay sharp on their musical talent.

The wide range of abilities, levels, ages, and backgrounds of the Community Band members create a diversified group that composes and covers a variety of songs. Come to Windmill Park at 7:00 pm to support this local group and to get a taste of a cheerful Orange City summer night.

July 13 will also be recognized as the City of Orange City Appreciation Day which will provide another perfect opportunity to celebrate. Food will be provided from 5 -7 pm at Windmill Park .

Stay tuned for updates on our website or social media pages regarding the rest of the OnStage season. Many exciting events like this one are coming up!

Community Band to Perform July 13

By admin | July 7, 2022

Orange City Arts presents second “First Wednesday” of the OnStage Season

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 19:26:00 GMT

Music, food trucks, kids activities and art all come together to create an evening you won’t want to miss! The Orange City Arts Council once again invites local band Hollander Jazz on Wednesday, July 6. The band will perform at 7:00 pm in Windmill Park in Orange City.

Along with the art show activities and free concert, different food trucks will surround the square, which gives many an additional way to enjoy the evening in the park. Come enjoy this evening and participate in the support of local artists and musicians.

Orange City Arts presents second “First Wednesday” of the OnStage Season

By admin | June 29, 2022

The First Wednesdays of the month is a new program this year that features a local artist and their work and occasional street performers before the concert. This First Wednesday, local digital artist Duha Lee will feature her work in Stadcentrum. Additionally, Lee will be leading kids crafts for children of all ages to enjoy.

Duha Lee grew up in Taiwan in a family of artists. Influenced by her family, Studio Ghibi’s films and Japanese comics, she studied digital painting, advertising and graphic design in college. Now, she enjoys painting her children in her illustrations while incorporating Taiwaniese culture. Lee will display her art on Wednesday beginning at 5:00 pm and will lead kids crafts. She will be teaching how to make Chinese Zodiac masks and lanterns.

At 7:00 pm, Hollander Jazz will perform in the Windmill bandshell. Their performance last month brought in many members of the community, captivating them with a whole array of jazz music. Members of Hollander Jazz play instruments like saxophone, trumpet, keyboard, trombone and guitar. Under the direction of Drew Lemke, Hollander Jazz brings about crowd favorites from Michael Buble and Frank Sinatra to other familiar pop songs.

artwork by Duha Lee

Dennis Warner & Alex D. Maiers to entertain Orange City OnStage

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 22:43:00 GMT

Dennis Warner, musician and entertainer from Minnesota, will showcase his talents at Orange City OnStage on Wednesday, June 29 at 7:00 P.M. Warner’s musical career has brought him to all fifty states and beyond as he cultivates an array of musical masterpieces. Known for his entertaining and engaging performances, Warner blends serious thought provoking with lighter, up-tempo material.

Dennis Warner released his 11th album, Pilot Me, two years ago and received notable recognition for it. Pilot Me debuted on the FOLK DJ radio charts at #8 and Warner was among the top ten for Artist of the Month. Additionally, Warner is a two-time McKnight Foundation Artist Award winner and a three-time finalist for the Kerrville Folk Festival songwriting awards. He has even been invited to perform at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C. for a series honoring the best of the unknown songwriters.

Dennis Warner is also commonly known for his children’s book and CD, Beads on One String. The book, now on its seventh printing, celebrates connectedness and unity, with intention of ending bullying in schools. It is currently being used in elementary schools all over the United States and even internationally.

Alex D. Maiers, a well-known guitar player from Minnesota, will join Warner on bass and vocals. The two performers are not only talented folk musicians but phenomenal entertainers. Come downtown on Wednesday night to enjoy this unique style of music for all ages.

Dennis Warner & Alex D. Maiers to entertain Orange City OnStage

By admin | June 23, 2022

Guitarist Stefan Heuer to Perform for Orange City OnStage

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 16:37:00 GMT

From nostalgic 60s tunes to the popular songs you hear on the radio today, Stefan Heuer has it all covered. The award-winning artist has debuted all over the country and set foot on some recognizable, prestigious stages. The Orange City Arts Council invites Heuer to the summer OnStage series on June 22 at 7:00 P.M. in Windmill Park.

Stefan Heuer is a Breedlove Guitar artist from Annapolis, Maryland. His covers and original songs blend the musical genres of Motown, Soul and R&B. Heuer has toured around the world and landed gigs on stages like Whiskey A Go Go and Rams Head Live. In less than a decade, he has established an impressive musical resume and built a name for himself.

According to Gig Salad Review, “Stefan was professional and reliable – music was on point for the event as well.” They also noted, “Stefan was so friendly and easy to work with leading up to our event. Everyone commented on how wonderful he was. We would definitely use him again.”

Orange City Arts’ Summer OnStage program is a perfect opportunity for a performer like Stefan Heuer. These free concerts bring about life and joy to the community. Heuer’s music will bring new and fresh energy to the series as he comes to Orange City for the first time.

Guitarist Stefan Heuer to Perform for Orange City OnStage

By admin | June 16, 2022

Festival Latino, Saturday, June 25

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 01:12:00 GMT

It’s time for Festival Latino! This year’s festival takes place on Saturday, June 25 at Windmill Park . Activities include a soccer tournament, kids’ activities, food, and music.

Schedule of Events

8:00 am – 5k fun run – Puddle Jumper
8:15 am – 1-mile fun walk – Puddle Jumper Trail
10:00 am – Soccer tournament – NWC soccer fields
11:00 am – 1:00 pm – Food available to purchase at Nueve Esperanza church
1:00 pm – Soccer tournament championship game – NWC soccer fields
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm – Kids activities – Windmill Park
4:30 pm – 7:00 pm – Food trucks – Windmill Park
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm – Foloric Dancers at Windmill Park bandshell
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm – Musical entertainment by Enrique and the Rebels at Windmill Park bandshell

For more information, visit the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Festival-Latino-112004861114317

Festival Latino, Saturday, June 25

By orangecityarts | June 15, 2022

Community Band to Take the Stage on June 15

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 21:53:00 GMT

Community Band to Take the Stage on June 15

The band practices once a week and the members even get paid for their participation both in the rehearsals and performances. Additionally, they have an impact on the community and OnStage program. As they share their passion for music with both each other and their audiences, members get a fulfilling and rewarding experience.

Community Band has about thirty members strong who have a wide range of abilities and ages. Having musicians with different experiences and levels creates a unique challenge. Even with the diversity among the group, they share the philosophy that music is something that can continue to be a regular part of everyone’s lives. Whether it is a familiar and traditional song or a new and modern song, music is something that can truly connect everyone and tailor to every type of audience.

Come join the community on Wednesday the 15th to hear the liveliness and fun that Orange City’s Community Band will present. The concert is free and suitable for all ages!

By admin | June 8, 2022

Orange City Arts OnStage event, Community Band, will perform June 15 at 7:00 P.M. in Windmill Park. The Orange City Area Community Band is a group of local musicians under the direction of Dan Mangold, MOC-FV High School’s band director. They have performed for OnStage many times and are an important part of the program. This Wednesday at Windmill Park, they will share a variety of different music. The band typically plays anything from big band hits to movies and show tunes to patriotic songs with a personal touch.

Hollander Jazz to Perform June 8 at Windmill Park

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 20:50:00 GMT

Orange City Arts is once again inviting local band, Hollander Jazz, for an OnStage event on Wednesday, June 8 at Windmill Park. They will perform from 7:00 P.M. to 8:30 P.M., creating a lively blend of different types of jazz music.

Hollander Jazz was created and is coordinated by Drew Lemke, who is currently the band director at MOC Floyd Valley Middle School in Alton. The organization is made up of multiple musicians in Northwest Iowa who have mastered the art of jazz. The members of Hollander Jazz are local band directors, private instructors or simply members of the community. Despite their differing backgrounds or experiences, each of them are dedicated performers with a passion for jazz music and sharing it with others.

The band got its start through the summer OnStage series and now they have performed at a number of different special events. Often, they will book weddings in the area and perform for cocktail hours, reception music or dances. With the use of vocals and instruments like the trumpet, saxophone, keyboard, trombone and guitar, Hollander Jazz gives life to both modern and classical jazz.

Come downtown Wednesday at 7:00 P.M. to experience jazz music from Michael Bublé, Frank Sinatra and other crowd favorites. Check out https://www.hollanderjazz.com/home for more information.

Hollander Jazz to Perform June 8 at Windmill Park

By admin | June 1, 2022

Richie Lee & the Fabulous 50’s to Perform on June 1

Thu, 26 May 2022 16:10:00 GMT

Orange City Arts is excited to host Richie Lee on June 1, 2022. This free concert will kick off the “First Wednesdays” and OnStage season. Richie Lee & the Fabulous 50’s, a rock and roll band from Des Moines, takes its audience back in time to the rock and roll classics. By doing so, they have intentions of bringing dignity and respect back to the genre. The quartet relives songs from Elvis Presley, Ricky Nelson, The Beatles, Buddy Holly and The Beach Boys, all while staying true to the original sound and rhythm of the individual song.

It all started when artist, Richie Lee, sparked an interest in music at a young age. By listening to Buddy Holly’s music on CD’s as a 6 year-old, he immediately was hooked on the sound and liveliness of his music. This passion later resulted in Lee learning to play the guitar and drums, and eventually ending up on stage for live performances.

Richie Lee & the Fabulous 50’s to Perform on June 1

By admin | May 26, 2022

The inspiration for rock music that Lee had as a child continues to expand through the excitement of his performances. His band, Richie Lee & the Fabulous 50’s, has performed shows all over the country. Sharing these melodies with the various audiences has been a dream come true for Lee and his band members. Lee takes pride in the genre of rock and roll. Through reliving old hits, he hopes to carry on his legacy of it to the younger generation. He says, “I want to bring back this sound for kids so it’s not forgotten. I want them to hear what real rock music sounds like.”

With that said, Richie Lee’s music is for all ages. It re-introduces the culture of old rock music to the younger and brings back favorites for the older. The band will give a free concert beginning at 7:00 P.M. in Windmill Park in Orange City. Additional activities will begin at 5:00 P.M. which will include a variety of food trucks and an exhibit in Stadcentrum with featured artist, Otto Reyna.

artwork by Otto Reyna

2022 OnStage Summer Line Up

Thu, 05 May 2022 01:53:00 GMT

Orange City Arts presents the 2022 OnStage summer concert series lineup. Our free concerts are back again every Wednesday at 7:00 pm at Windmill Park in downtown Orange City. We will be featuring some of our favorite performers, with a few new artists in the mix. Brand new to this year is ‘First Wednesdays,’ with ‘local street performers, food trucks, and an art show at Stadcentrum. Activities will begin at 5:00 pm with the music concert starting at 7 pm. There will be something for everyone this summer to enjoy!

*First Wednesdays 5-9 pm, street performers, food trucks, art show

*June 1 – Richie Lee – kicking off

June 8 – Hollander Jazz

June 15 – Community Band

June 22 – Stefan Heuer

June 29 – Dennis Warner

*July 6 – Hollander Jazz

July 13 – Community Band

July 20 – Dueling Fiddles

July 27 – Community Band

*August 3 – Kley DeJong

August 10 – John Smith

August 17 – Allez-Oops! (free 30 min children’s workshop at 6:30 pm)

August 24 –Arts on Central- Street Dance

Other Events

June 25 – Festival Latino (on Saturday)
July 24 – 30 – Compass Children’s Theater Workshop at Northwestern College- Register here to get more information about the workshop.

2022 OnStage Summer Line Up

By orangecityarts | May 5, 2022

Talent Wanted for First Wednesdays

Thu, 05 May 2022 00:57:00 GMT

Orange City Arts is looking for creative people wanting to share their unique talents with us this summer on our First Wednesdays (June 1, July 6, August 3) from 5-7 pm before the main performer. Examples of what we are looking for are face painters, singers, musicians, jugglers, animal tricks, magicians, artists etc.

You will be performing/creating outside and placed in a few key areas in downtown Orange City. These are unpaid positions but you may ask for tips or charge a small fee for a service/product (such as face painting or balloon animals). Youths and adults are encouraged to participate, we ask children have a responsible parent or adult present.
Contact Us with this form or email info@orangecityarts.org for more information or to sign up.

Talent Wanted for First Wednesdays

By orangecityarts | May 5, 2022

Artists Awarded in Regional Art Show

Sat, 30 Apr 2022 17:08:00 GMT

The Orange City Arts Council awarded three regional artists for their outstanding work in the 2022 Regional Art Show at the closing reception held on April 30 at the NWC DeWitt Theater Arts Center. The juried show featured 25 works of art by artists from Iowa, South Dakota, and Minnesota. April Benson of Orange City the Best in Show award for her oil painting titled ‘Grocery Store Carnation.’ The first Honorable Mention went to Jerry Deuschle of Luverne, MN, for his ceramic sculpture titled ‘Under Sea 2’. The second Honorable Mention was awarded to Melissa Van Egdom of Hull, Iowa, for her watercolor painting on rice paper titled ‘Warm Autumn Pastures.’ Jurors for the show are Northwestern College Art department chair Phil Scorza and staff member Meghan Flynn.

The show was sponsored by Orange City Arts along with the Northwestern College theater and art departments.

Artists Awarded in Regional Art Show

By orangecityarts | April 30, 2022

Irish Trio Socks in the Frying Pan to play March 16

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 00:39:00 GMT

Orange City Arts MainStage event, Socks in the Frying Pan , will play on March 16 in Orange City. Socks in the Frying Pan are a multi-award-winning trio from County Clare on the West coast of Ireland, the universal hub of Irish traditional music. Their dynamic vocal harmonies, virtuosic musical ability, and onstage wit has captured and captivated audiences the world around them. One of the most sought-after groups in Irish music today, the worldwide ‘Sock Invasion’ continues!

Socks in the Frying Pan comprises of Aodán Coyne on guitar and vocals and the accomplished Hayes brothers, Shane Hayes on accordion and Fiachra Hayes on fiddle & banjo. Socks in the Frying Pan are a multi-award-winning trio from County Clare on the West coast of Ireland, the universal hub of Irish traditional music. Their dynamic vocal harmonies, virtuosic musical ability, and onstage wit has captured and captivated audiences the world around them. One of the most sought-after groups in Irish music today, the worldwide ‘Sock Invasion’ continuesSocks in the Frying Pan comprises of Aodán Coyne on guitar and vocals and the accomplished Hayes brothers, Shane Hayes on accordion and Fiachra Hayes on fiddle & banjo.

This youthful trio blends Irish traditional melodies with their own personal flair which has gained them critical acclaim and accolades including ‘New Band of the Year’ by the Irish Music Association. The group has been embraced in the United States, having been booked by every major Irish festival and praised for their modern traditional style and energetic approach to music. They have a clear love for live performance which only compliments the traditional essence in their shows and makes for a truly unique form of entertainment.

The Irish trio will be appearing at the Prairie Winds Event Center in Orange City, IA on March 16 at 7:30 pm. Tickets available here.

Irish Trio Socks in the Frying Pan to play March 16

By admin | February 16, 2022

Call for Art: 2022 Regional Art Exhibition

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 00:34:00 GMT

Orange City Arts is currently accepting submissions for the 10th Annual Artists Showcase: 2022 Regional Art Exhibition, April 4-30th, 2022 at the Northwestern College DeWitt Theatre Arts Center, Orange City, IA. This exhibit is open to any artist, college-age and up, from Iowa or within a 350-mile radius of Orange City, Iowa. Artwork must be original in concept, composition, and execution, and must have been created in the past three years. Artwork may not have been shown previously in an Orange City Arts exhibit and entries will be juried. There is no entry fee and the exhibit will be free to the public. The submission deadline is March 22, 2022.

For more information and to submit artwork, visit 2022 Regional Art Show .

Additional group and solo show opportunities will be available summer and fall of 2022, please contact us if interested.

Call for Art: 2022 Regional Art Exhibition

By admin | February 16, 2022