March 2025
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
DISCOUNTS:
Save 10% when you purchase tickets for 3 or more events at one time. If you’re purchasing online use the discount code SAVE10. GROUPS: Group discount of 10% for 10 or more people (use code GROUP10 on eligible shows), 20% for 20 or more people (use code GROUP20 on eligible shows) or call 218-327-5780 to secure groups.
On March 7, 2025, at 7 PM, the Itasca Symphony Orchestra in partnership with The Reif, will present The Universe at the Symphony, a mesmerizing multimedia concert blending science and music.
The evening will feature three iconic movements from Gustav Holst’s The Planets, and will evoke the sense of wonder found in The Legend of the Northern Lights by composer Christopher Theofanidis, where stories, music, and visuals come together to explain the mysteries of the universe. As in this legend, where a child’s curiosity leads to a deeper understanding of the natural world, this concert seeks to spark that same sense of curiosity and awe.
This performance will be elevated by the visual artistry and talks by Dr. José Francisco Salgado, an Emmy-nominated astronomer and visual artist whose work masterfully bridges the gap between science and art. His stunning visual projections, will include imagery from NASA and the European Space Agency, taking the audience on a celestial voyage through space. Dr. Salgado’s work is not just a scientific exploration but an artistic interpretation that invites the audience to marvel at the beauty of the universe.
Just as humankind has long looked to the night sky for answers, The Universe at the Symphony will inspire you to wonder about the stars, the planets, and the mysteries of space.
Don’t miss this extraordinary event!
All tickets are final sale and cannot be exchanged or refunded. In the case of an event cancellation without a rescheduled date, a refund will be issued. By purchasing a ticket to this event, you agree to this purchase policy. Before purchasing your tickets, we urge you to confirm the title, time and location of the event.
Purchase Tickets
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR
Folksinger/songwriter Kelley Smith is a hopeless romantic who fancies old poetry and grandpa sweaters. All at once whimsical and haunting, Smith delivers deeply affecting lyrics with wry charm and a time traveler’s voice. Prone to melancholy and daydreaming, Kelley spent her childhood roaming the woods of Minnesota and singing to forest animals. To this day, her longing for that landscape runs deep and seems to find its way into her songs in one way or another.
Raised by musicians, Smith always had music in her bones, but it wasn’t until she was 40 and a mother of four that her first record, Moon Child (2022), came to be. As an insomniac, she wrote this first batch of songs by moonlight. They evoke a sense of belonging, juxtaposed with escapism, as she croons about long-term love, grief, and her draw to the night sky. ”Her authentic, rootsy sound, falling somewhere between country, folk, bluegrass and old-time music, is a pitch-perfect vehicle for the themes she explores…” – Adventures in Americana
Since 2022, Kelley has been honored to share stages with folks such as Charlie Parr, Kelly Hunt, Wild Horses, Dave Simonett, Alan Sparhawk, Stephen Wilson Jr., John Louis, and Drew Peterson. Most often performing solo or as a duo, Smith interprets old folk songs on guitar and banjo, in addition to her original music.
”…armed only with her guitar and a spine-tingling voice, you couldn’t tell she’s only been at this a couple years. Smith transported the room into a realm of enchantment both beautiful and sorrowful. With deeply affecting lyrics and haunting melodies, Smith shared stories we could all relate to. Her solo acoustic set created an atmosphere of intimacy and vulnerability, allowing the audience to connect on a deep and personal level..” – Adventures in Americana
The Reif Cozy Concert Series features Minnesota-based singer-songwriters performing their own heartfelt and original compositions. You can expect a diverse range of styles, from folk and indie to blues and Americana. Each show offers a unique opportunity to connect with artists and their music in the intimate Ives Theater at The Reif Center. These poignant, stripped-down performances are sure to capture the raw intensity of the gifted storytellers grown right here in our region.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR
DISCOUNTS:
Save 10% when you purchase tickets for 3 or more events at one time. If you’re purchasing online use the discount code SAVE10. GROUPS: Group discount of 10% for 10 or more people (use code GROUP10 on eligible shows), 20% for 20 or more people (use code GROUP20 on eligible shows) or call 218-327-5780 to secure groups.
Did you hear it?
David Moody had an opportunity to speak with senior Lily Stark about the upcoming Reif performances of ‘Disney’s Newsies Jr.’ The interview aired on KOZY 93.1 FM/AM 1320, as part of the ‘Afternoon Cleanup’ with Joe and Kyle.
If you didn’t catch it on the radio, listen to it here!
Daring kids take on newspaper giants in this toe-tapping underdog story inspired by the 1899 Newsboys’ Strike. Featuring “King of New York,” “The World Will Know,” and more empowering anthems from the original Disney film, this musical will have you singing, dancing, and seizing the day!
Book by Harvey Fierstein, Lyrics by Jack Feldman, Music by Alan Menken
Based on the Disney film written by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White
Disney’s Newsies Jr. is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
www.mtishows.com
This event is not just about indulging in a delicious breakfast but also about coming together as a community to support Reif Theater Arts! Funds raised will go toward purchasing costumes, sets and props for Newsies Jr. this March.
All tickets are final sale and cannot be exchanged or refunded. In the case of an event cancellation without a rescheduled date, a refund will be issued. By purchasing a ticket to this event, you agree to this purchase policy. Before purchasing your tickets, we urge you to confirm the title, time and location of the event.
April 2025
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR
DISCOUNTS:
Save 10% when you purchase tickets for 3 or more events at one time. If you’re purchasing online use the discount code SAVE10. GROUPS: Group discount of 10% for 10 or more people (use code GROUP10 on eligible shows), 20% for 20 or more people (use code GROUP20 on eligible shows) or call 218-327-5780 to secure groups.
One of the first duos to find success in country music, The Bellamy Brothers are known for smash hits such as “Let Your Love Flow” (1976), “I Need More Of You” (1984), and “Old Hippie” (1985). Since the late 1970s, brothers Howard and David have celebrated 10 number-one hits, released more than 30 studio albums, and continue to tour and release new music, showing a new generation of country music how it’s done.
Howard and David continue to prove that the trail they’ve ridden to fame has been as unique as their music itself; music that is now celebrating nearly 50 years of success.
All tickets are final sale and cannot be exchanged or refunded. In the case of an event cancellation without a rescheduled date, a refund will be issued. By purchasing a ticket to this event, you agree to this purchase policy. Before purchasing your tickets, we urge you to confirm the title, time and location of the event.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR
Jed LaPlant, known by most as the frontman of Minnesotan western folk rock group Wild Horses, is a singer/songwriter from Grand Rapids, MN. Being born and raised among the long winters has influenced much of Jed’s storytelling, offering an intimate knowledge of both the beauty and the brutality of life in the Northwoods. Jed carries in his music a distinct appeal to dynamics and adheres to the importance of honesty in songwriting.
Opener: Dean Batten is a singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and motorcycle freak. He’s from Florida.
The Reif Cozy Concert Series features Minnesota-based singer-songwriters performing their own heartfelt and original compositions. You can expect a diverse range of styles, from folk and indie to blues and Americana. Each show offers a unique opportunity to connect with artists and their music in the intimate Ives Theater at The Reif Center. These poignant, stripped-down performances are sure to capture the raw intensity of the gifted storytellers grown right here in our region.
Tickets:
If you are part of a Senior/Assisted Living facility and wish to attend as a group, PLEASE CALL to place an order to ensure accommodations can be met (do not purchase tickets online). 218.327.5780 (M-F, 11am to 4pm).
Vocal Jazz is an auditioned chamber ensemble made of students in grades 11 & 12. This group rehearses and performs standard jazz charts, contemporary tunes, and madrigals during the holiday season. These students are learning about what it means to be a member of an ensemble through consistent collaboration with each other and taking ownership of their own musical ideas.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR
DISCOUNTS:
Save 10% when you purchase tickets for 3 or more events at one time. If you’re purchasing online use the discount code SAVE10. GROUPS: Group discount of 10% for 10 or more people (use code GROUP10 on eligible shows), 20% for 20 or more people (use code GROUP20 on eligible shows) or call 218-327-5780 to secure groups.
Back by popular demand, don’t miss Transit Authority in their tribute to the legendary rock band Chicago! This fantastic band presents sold-out shows across the nation performing Chicago’s #1 hits and arena rock power ballads including “Saturday In the Park,” “Just You and Me,” “Wishing You Were Here,” “25 or 6 to 4,” “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day,” “Old Days,” “If You Leave Me Now” and many more!
All tickets are final sale and cannot be exchanged or refunded. In the case of an event cancellation without a rescheduled date, a refund will be issued. By purchasing a ticket to this event, you agree to this purchase policy. Before purchasing your tickets, we urge you to confirm the title, time and location of the event.
May 2025
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR
DISCOUNTS:
Save 10% when you purchase tickets for 3 or more events at one time. If you’re purchasing online use the discount code SAVE10. GROUPS: Group discount of 10% for 10 or more people (use code GROUP10 on eligible shows), 20% for 20 or more people (use code GROUP20 on eligible shows) or call 218-327-5780 to secure groups.
Hailed by The Washington Post as “one of Nashville’s finest song interpreters,” Kathy Mattea has enjoyed much success and acclaim during her 35-year career in Country, Bluegrass and Folk music, including 2 Grammy wins, 4 CMA Awards, 4 #1 country singles, and five gold albums (plus a platinum Greatest Hits collection). Her latest album is “Pretty Bird,” produced by her old friend, roots music wizard Tim O’Brien. The wide-ranging collection of songs chronicles a period of rededication to singing, digging back in with a vocal coach and emerging with a poignant and eclectic CD. In addition to creating and recording music and performing live on tour, Kathy is increasingly involved with public broadcasting, consulting and contributing on screen in Ken Burns’ 2019 documentary for PBS “Country Music,” and recently replacing founder Larry Groce as the host of the long-running NPR show “Mountain Stage.”
All tickets are final sale and cannot be exchanged or refunded. In the case of an event cancellation without a rescheduled date, a refund will be issued. By purchasing a ticket to this event, you agree to this purchase policy. Before purchasing your tickets, we urge you to confirm the title, time and location of the event.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR
DISCOUNTS:
Save 10% when you purchase tickets for 3 or more events at one time. If you’re purchasing online use the discount code SAVE10. GROUPS: Group discount of 10% for 10 or more people (use code GROUP10 on eligible shows), 20% for 20 or more people (use code GROUP20 on eligible shows) or call 218-327-5780 to secure groups.
Doors: 5:30pm
Northwood’s Band: 7:15pm
Hairball: 8:30pm
A band puts on a concert – Hairball puts on an event! Hairball is a Rock & Roll experience you won’t soon forget. The lights, sound, smoke, fire, bombs, and screaming hoards of avid fans…to merely call it a concert would be like calling Mount Rushmore a roadside attraction!
Vocalists Kris Vox, Dave Moody, and Drew Hart lead the band through a 2+ hour, mind-blowing, and dropdead accurate homage to some of the biggest arena acts in the world. Van Halen, KISS, Motley Crue, Queen, Journey, and Aerosmith are but a few of the acts fans will see brought to life. The Hairball stage becomes an entirely new rock concert before your very eyes countless times throughout the night.
The motor that drives the Hairball dragster consists of HBK on the electric bass, Billy on the drums, and Happy on the lead guitar. These Rock & Roll soldiers pride themselves on nailing some of the most memorable licks and chops of all time, while adding their own style and flare that they’ve cultivated over decades of tireless performing. This isn’t a side job. These guys eat, sleep and breathe Rock & Roll!
2025 finds Hairball celebrating its 25th year of rocking hundreds of thousands of people across the country. Constantly adding more characters, more pyrotechnics, more lights, more sound, more props, more surprises…more everything! While Happy often tells the audience “Today is the first day is the rest of your life!” Hairball performs every show as though it could be their last. Every night is a 100% full-on, no-holds-barred, exciting, chaotic, fiery party that has to be experienced to be believed!
As important to Hairball as the music, are its fans. While many bands claim to have the best fans in the world, Hairball actually has! Whether they are 10 years old or 100, Hairball fans bring an unparalleled enthusiasm and energy to the show that enhances the arena experience. Hairball knows it wouldn’t exist without its fans and takes every opportunity to let them know that.
Whether it’s a pre-show meet and greet, hanging out at the merch booth, or chatting online, Hairball has a lot in common with its fans and it’s always a good time when they get together. Don’t confuse Hairball with the countless “80’s Tribute” bands across the country. Hairball is an experience, an attitude, and expression of music that isn’t simply a retro flashback, it’s a way of life!
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Rain or shine (Indoor Event)
Venue Map
FREE PARKING!
There is no outside food or beverage allowed inside the venue. We will have concession stands open with options for your indulgence.
There will be a “No Bag Policy” in effect for this event. Large bags, backpacks, purses and totes will not be allowed inside the venue. Clutch sized purses and bags measuring 8”x10” or smaller are allowed. Upon arrival, patrons will pass through a walkthrough security screening and will be advised to return prohibited items to their vehicle before entering the venue. Exceptions will be made for medically necessary items or single compartment diaper bags (child must be present) subject to security screening.
Cameras with detachable lenses are not allowed. Only approved media may bring in large scale cameras. Photography/ Videography on your cellphone is permitted.
Prohibited items include those which could be used as a weapon, unlawful substances, bottles or cans, helium balloons, laser pens, umbrellas, backpacks, knapsacks, luggage, coolers, parcels, briefcases, tablets and like articles. Please note that guests with prohibited articles will be turned away at the entrance. Event staff reserves the right to confiscate items within the arena that may cause a danger or disruption to the event or to other guests.
There are no refunds or exchanges. If you are unable to use your tickets, they may be returned to the Box Office in exchange for a charitable donation receipt. If an event is cancelled due to weather, tickets will be reimbursed or can be exchanged for another performance. Performances will not be cancelled as long as performers are able to make it.
While exchanges are not allowed between different events, in the instance of a multi-day set for the same event (for example, our 3-day Nutcracker performance) a patron can exchange tickets to a different day by paying a $5.00 per order exchange fee.
The Reif strongly recommends that tickets be purchased only from The Reif (in person, over the phone or at www.TheReif.org). The Reif is not responsible for the validity of tickets, or prices paid, for items purchased through third party sources such as eBay, Craigslist, ticket brokers or others. The Reif reserves the right to reject tickets purchased from third party sources which are determined, in The Reif’s sole opinion, to have been altered, duplicated or counterfeited. The Reif also reserves the right to cancel any ticket which, in The Reif’s sole opinion, was purchased with the intent of reselling the ticket at a price higher than what The Reif charges. The Reif reserves the right to cancel any voucher (including tickets issued as the result of redeeming a voucher) if it is determined, in The Reif’s sole opinion, that the voucher was resold. The Reif will not refund any monies paid to third party brokers or for any tickets not purchased directly from The Reif.
THANK YOU SPONSORS
May 17 marks the Itasca Orchestra's last performance of the season. The program titled "Sunshine" will feature the piano soloist, Alyona A. Waldo (Russia/USA) in the energetic Piano Concerto no.2 by Dmitri Shostakovich.
Alyona A Waldo is a regular chamber musician for the LunART Festival in Madison, WI, concert soloist with the Edgewood Chamber Orchestra, pianist for the flute/cello/piano ensemble Trio Collage, and collaborative pianist and chamber musician for faculty and student recitals at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Mead Witter School of Music. She is excited to return to Grand Rapids after last year's successful performances as faculty artist for the Third Coast Chamber Collective’s Summer Festival and Adult Chamber Music Retreat.
Other repertoire for the May 17 evening includes the "Rienzi" Overture by Richard Wagner, Dmitri Shostakovich’s Gadfly Suite and "Variations on a Shaker Melody" by Aaron Copland.