One of the finest Country-Rock bands in Southern California, Nitro Express Band have been playing consistently across the southwest for over 20 years and have gained a reputation for their incredible sound, versatility, and being the hardest working band in the area. Nitro Express has been averaging about 200 performances a year at various casinos and theme parks (Knotts Berry Farm, Sea World, Magic Mountain), They have appeared on the Bravo TV series, ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’, and and have performed at venues with Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney, Clint Black, Ronnie Milsap, Bill Ray Cyrus, Wynonna Judd, Dwight Yoakam, The Derailers, Vince Gill, and many others.

Though typically billed as a Country or Country-Rock band, Nitro Express has influences ranging from Bakersfield to Liverpool, Nashville to London, Texas to Chicago, Detroit to Sweet Home Alabama, and many points in between. Classic Rock, Blues, Bluegrass, R&B, Country, Southern Rock, Surf Music, Motown, and even Reggae are some of the components that make up their unique sound. With some of Southern California’s strongest vocals, superb harmonies, virtuoso musicianship, and a strong beat, they are one of the most entertaining acts on the West Coast.

Walk in a Winter Wonderland as The Manhattan Dolls take you through all of your favorite Christmas tunes with gorgeous harmonies! So gather around that ole’ piano and get ready to sing along as you Rock Around the Christmas Tree, schmooze with Santa Baby and take a quick ride with Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer. It certainly won’t be a Silent Nightwhen the Dolls are in town with special guest Gaslight Theater performer Charlie Hall!

Brady Seals, cousin to Jimmy Seals (Seals and Crofts) and Lua Crofts, daughter of Darrell “Dash” Crofts, will dazzle you with this heartfelt performance. Experience the music of 70‘s rock duo Seals & Crofts in a whole new way. Hear hits like “Summer Breeze,” “Diamond Girl,” and “We May Never Pass This Way (Again),” artfully re-imagined with a reverent nod to the past. For Brady and Lua, musical magic is all in the family. Together they are Seals & Crofts 2.

Singer/songwriter/artist Brady Seals has a pedigree for success. You could say that music is “in his blood”. Over the course of his career, Brady has sold over 11 million albums and is probably best known for his tenure in the 1990‘s as keyboardist and co- lead singer in the Grammy nominated group Little Texas (Warner Brothers). Seals co- wrote three consecutive #1 songs for the band (“What Might Have Been,” “God Blessed Texas,” and “My Love”) winning him ASCAP’s Triple Play award. Seals pursued a solo career, collaborating with the legendary Rodney Crowell to co-produce his Warner Brothers album, The Truth. It features a duet with Wynonna Judd, “Another You, Another Me”.

Talented and soulful vocalist Lua Crofts comes from 70’s era rock royalty and grew up in Los Angeles California right smack dab in the middle of the 70’s and 80’s music industry. Deciding to follow in her father’s footsteps, her first experience as a session singer was as the tender age of 7 years old when she accompanied both her mother and father on a song that would be featured on a popular children’s album. She would go on to become an in-demand session singer throughout the 90’s and early 2000’s in the Los Angeles area, singing background vocals on many popular R&B albums for artists. She currently lives in Nashville, Tennessee with her husband and children, continues to do studio session work and sings/tours with the popular Nashville Gospel Choir, Eric Dozier and Friends. 

When Brady Seals recounts the story of their partnership, “I asked Lua to sing on a project I was working on at the time called The Seals Family Album. When she sang on my rendition of “Summer Breeze” it was magical. We both knew immediately we needed to explore working together more. I paused the project I was working on and started focusing on Seals & Crofts 2. Lua and I feel honored to tour together and to carry the torch and remind everyone just how special the Seals & Crofts catalog really is.”

Joe Bourne and his special guest, Harpist Christine Vivona, accompanied by Sly Slypetsky on Piano and Tuba, Scott Black on Bass and Fred Hayes on Drums will bring to you a variety of Jazz, Blues and Pop as well as a healthy taste of classical and secular Holiday Music. Hear a special rendition of Little Drummer Boy, Christmas in Dixie, Ode to Joy, a Hanukkah Medley, Prelude in C, Hallelujah, along with music from Carol King, Lou Rawls, George Straight, Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, and of course Nat King Cole and many more exciting Pop and Holiday arrangements to help guide you into the Holiday spirit. Voted Best Local Entertainer by Tucson Lifestyle magazine readers. Joe’s mission statement is: “To lift the spirits of those who I have the privilege of entertaining and to have an abundance of fun while doing so.”

Liven up the holidays with this favorite holiday tradition! In the Christmas Mood: A Holiday Music Spectacular features timeless treasures and soon-to-be-classics, guaranteed to make the season merry and bright. Starring Katherine Byrnes, Nick Gallardo, Janée Page, and Chach Snook, it’s an evening of non-stop singing, dancing, comedy, and holiday magic!

A Chicago native, Paul McDermand’s career spans the entirety of the entertainment landscape, from movie soundtracks to the biggest and best of Broadway. In constant demand as a percussion specialist, he has shared the stage with the brightest names in music, including Tony Bennett, Johnny Mathis, The Temptations and The Moody Blues. Backed by his “Island Time Band,” Paul’s numerous national tours have introduced the steel drums of Trinidad to delighted audiences of all ages, and his many recordings are embraced the world over for their exotic essence and serene beauty. 

Encompassing both instrumental and vocal arrangements, Paul and his ensemble offer a wide ranging program of breezy calypsos, pulsating latin rhythms and the most bewitching melodies in all of popular music. When home in Scottsdale, Paul is a featured soloist with the Barleens Dinner Show and the entertainment director at Tommy Bahama’s Kierland Commons location. Enjoy this broadly popular program with a tropical bent, courtesy of the steel drums of Trinidad and accompanying musicians. Be sure to listen for the Andrew Lloyd Webber medley!

Big Band Sounds is back for their annual concert at CPAC. The band is made up of 18 professional jazz players who have all had vast experience performing in big bands all over the United States for many years. These talented musicians, combined with their carefully selected and well-rehearsed arrangements, will remind you why big band music has continued pleasing and exciting audiences for three quarters of a century. The band is led by Richard Blickenstaff, who has been a fixture in the Tucson jazz scene for several decades.

DISCOVER THE JOY OF BOOKMAKING

Instructor: Susan Ettl

Dates: Every Wednesday, January 7, 14, 21, February 4, 11, 18, 2026

Time: 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Fee: $285

Deadline: December 31, 2025

Join Susan in learning about the plethora of bookmaking techniques, from simple accordion folded books, glued tabs to an abondance of stitched bindings (Western and Eastern styles). In this workshop, students will learn about the parts of books; how to fold papers and stack them to form signatures, how to cover a book with paper or fabric, how to make book fabric, what needles and threads to use for sewn bindings, how to repurpose an old book, and more. Susan will discuss how to make an assortment of books, such as personal, art, nature, and junk journals, plus sketches, celebration, memory, and travel books. 

Various techniques for decorating book pages including eco dyeing, stamping, stenciling, and creating a background using acrylic inks will be addressed. A variety of embellishments such as decorating spines, making different types of pockets, page inserts, etc., will be demonstrated. Students will even make a book entirely of recycled envelopes! Come join in the fun!

Founded in 2019, White Winged Dove is comprised of veteran musicians led by the accomplished vocalist Kristine Robin. This high energy band will take you through the 40+ years of Stevie’s legendary solo career as well as her Fleetwood Mac classics. The band brings to the stage an authentic tribute to one of the most influential female rock vocalists and songwriters of all time. You’ll be taken back in time as White Winged Dove rocks Stevie’s hits including Stand Back, Edge of Seventeen, Rhiannon, Gypsy, If Anyone Falls, Landslide and many more! Kristine is joined on stage by Steve Salvatore (vocals/guitar), James Kulon (bass), Jeff Burkett (vocals/drums), and Gary Cores (vocals/keyboard/percussion).

The Undercovers consist of 3 world-class vocalists and musicians reimagining the timeless classics of Kenny Rogers, Lionel Richie, and Smokey Robinson. With acclaimed singers Luke McMaster, Kevin Pauls, and Joel Parisien at the helm, this trio brings an intimate experience that leaves audiences breathless. Their performances are not just about the music – they’re about creating a connection, telling a story, and evoking the emotions that only truly iconic songs can deliver.

Luke McMaster is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and producer best known for his Billboard hit “Good Morning Beautiful” with Jim Brickman. He has penned songs for stars like Rihanna, but his true passion lies in paying tribute to R&B legends like Smokey Robinson, Lamont Dozier, and Felix Cavaliere. Robinson’s personal praise for Luke’s versions of his iconic songs became a career highlight, inspiring McMaster’s work with The Undercovers. Luke continues to blend classic soul and modern pop, celebrating legends while crafting his own legacy in the music industry.

Kevin Pauls is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and TV personality with over 2,500 performances worldwide. Rooted in gospel music, he developed his talent in four-part harmony through his church upbringing and touring with The Gaither Homecoming. Deeply inspired by the music of Kenny Rogers, Lionel Richie, and Smokey Robinson, Pauls brings their influence into his performances, especially with The Undercovers. Known for his appearances on 100 Huntley Street and his popular Ugly Sweater Tour, Kevin’s blend of gospel, pop, and soul delivers powerful, emotional performances that leave a lasting impact.

Joel Parisien is a multilingual, multi-platinum artist known for his soulful vocals and distinctive style. As the frontman of Newworldson, he led the band to international success, earning four Juno® nominations and topping Billboard’s Gospel charts with hits like “There Is A Way.” Influenced by the funk of Earth, Wind & Fire, the soul of Smokey Robinson, and the country of Kenny Rogers, Parisien blends genres effortlessly. Beyond Newworldson, he co-wrote Audio Adrenaline’s “Kings and Queens” and co-produced Walk Off The Earth’s “We Got Love.” He now brings his rich musical depth to The Undercovers.

Jump aboard the “Soul Train” with song stylist Erin Anderson and her SOUL REVUE, for a joyous celebration of classic soul and R&B. With horn-filled hits by artists as varied as Earth, Wind and Fire, Gladys Knight, Kool and The Gang, Stevie Wonder and many more, you definitely won’t be able to sit still.

Erin Anderson is an exciting and gifted vocalist, based in Tucson, Arizona. She has deep roots in musical theater—locally, you may have seen her perform with the Southern Arizona Performing Arts Company, Saguaro City Musical Theater and Arizona Onstage. However, Ms. Anderson is equally at home with everything from jazz, R&B and blues, to rock and gospel—a versatility which has led to her frequent role as featured performer for Khris Dodge Entertainment, The Gaslight Theatre, Mr. Bing’s Supper Club…and now, CPAC! Erin feels so blessed to share her music with you!

Enjoy an intimate evening with the music of Paul McCartney. You will hear all of your favorites, along with some deep cuts, too! ”Live and Let Die’s” very own Tony Kishman is joined by guitarist/pianist/vocalist Chris Holt, who is the guitarist for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame legend Don Henley and The Eagles. Chris is also a five-time Dallas Observer Music Award winner (three of them for Musician of The Year). The night is filled with stories from Tony’s 40-year career portraying Sir Paul.

Tony Kishman starred for six years in both the national and international tours of Broadway’s smash hit musical, ‘Beatlemania’ and also performs in the International Symphonic Beatles production, ‘Classical Mystery Tour’. He has been performing his award-winning show to the most successful band of all-time around the globe for more than a decade, bringing the music and the magic of both the Beatles and Paul McCartney to a new generation, earning rave reviews from ‘Beatlemaniacs’ for his uncanny resemblance both visually and vocally to the beloved Beatle. A consummate musician and multi-instrumentalist, Tony Kishman had previously performed, recorded and toured with the critically acclaimed band Wishbone Ash and recorded his own music with both RCA and Mercury Records – He is also proudly endorsed by Hofner. “Tony sounds like Paul McCartney.” – Sir George Martin

The settlement and development of early Territorial Arizona on this last frontier of the Old West is the story of not just a few, but of many different ethnic peoples. Their persistence and “true grit” helped shape this place with its uniquely Southwestern Culture. Arizona is historically a cattle ranching and mining state, and we are all familiar with the prominent role that Mexican and Texan ranchers and cowboys played in our cattle ranching history. Many are aware of the prominent role that Cornish, Slav, and Eastern European miners played in our mining history. However, Jewish, Mormon, and Chinese pioneers also played an important role in the development of this land. Here Jack gets to talk about their contributions to our state and tell a fascinating story that many are not familiar with.

John Mellencamp epitomizes life in a Small Town, and his heartland brand of rock n’ roll has been celebrated for almost five decades. Mike Yarema (Down on the Corner, Light My Fire) sings the past and present hits of Mellencamp, including Hurts So Good, Jack & Diane, Pink Houses, and the more recent Wasted Days. Come celebrate the 2008 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and Grammy winner who has sold more than 60 million albums world-wide.

The Fantasticks is famously the world’s longest-running musical, playing Off-Broadway for an astonishing 42 years! Whimsical, poignant, and romantic, it is an irresistible fable of young love that manages to be nostalgic and universal at the same time. In theatrical fashion, our gallant and enigmatic narrator – El Gallo – introduces us to a pair of young lovers, Matt and Luisa, who (with a bit of help from their meddling, but well-intentioned parents) experience the magical, moonlit phase of falling in love. For a time, romance seems perpetually exciting, and heroics seem always to save the day. However, when romantic moonlight turns into the harsh light of day, the complications of true love become apparent. But never fear – a wildly entertaining cast of characters conspire to guide them through a journey filled with comedy, romance and adventure. Featuring timeless classics like “Try to Remember,” “Soon It’s Gonna Rain,” and “They Were You,” this beautiful piece of musical theater history is as beloved and timely today as when it first opened over 60 years ago! The Fantasticks is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). Directed by Kevin Hansen.

MEDIA MANIPULATION

Oil resist and acrylic paint

Instructor: Fran Sutherland

Dates: January 26, 2026

Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (bring a sack lunch).

Fee: $150, (Early Bird Special $135 if paid in full by December 29, 2025)

Last Day to Register: November 25, 2025

This class is for beginners to advanced students who are interested in boldly exploring acrylic painting. Learn techniques. tips, & tricks to add interest and energy to your work. We’ll explore many different acrylic applications to create engaging pieces. Students will learn to create rice paper image transfers for underpaintings, the value of working in a series and how to add elements of realism to an abstract underpainting. We will combine acrylic mediums while exploring ways to incorporate elements of form, pattern, texture & design. This is a high energy, fun, experimental class.