Wichita Children's Theatre to Area Schools

Western Plains Arts Association is again sponsoring The Wichita Children’s Theatre Professional Touring Company at our area schools.

The schedule follows.
Monday, Oct 19 8:30 a.m. Oakley Elementary with "Tom Sawyer"
                          1:30 p.m. Rawlins County Elementary with "Three Billy Goats Gruff"

Tues., Oct 20    8:30 a.m. Colby Elementary with "Three Billy Goats Gruff"
                         11:00 a.m. Tri-Plains Winona with "Three Billy Goats Gruff"
                           1:30 p.m. mountain time Goodland Fieldhouse with "Tom Sawyer"

Buckets N Boards in Oakley

 Buckets N Boards is coming to Oakley, Kansas for the next Western Plains Arts Association program. They will perform at the Oakley High School auditorium Sunday, October 11 at 3:00 PM. This brilliant and hilarious high-energy show starring Gareth Sever and Matt Levingston features amazing percussion, spectacular tap dancing, beat boxing, hilarious songs and more- all performed on a variety of instrumentation by two truly talented musicians. Buckets N Boards Musical Comedy Percussion Show has toured the world for over 10 years, 15 critically acclaimed seasons headlining in Branson, MO and is currently one of the top requested headlines acts for Disney Cruise Lines. Buckets N Boards is the experience that the entire family will enjoy. 

GARTH LIVE! In Colby on September 27th

The Western Plains Arts Association wants to invite you and any “friends in low places”
to the next concert in our 2026-2027 Season. GARTH LIVE! Is coming to the Cultural Arts Center on the campus of Colby Community College on September 27th at 3:00 PM.     

GARTH LIVE! is a stunning tribute to the music of Garth Brooks featuring Drew Baloh, who has an uncanny resemblance to the legendary country music icon. Having played to sold-out crowds across the U.S., this production is a tribute to some of the greatest music produced in the 90ʼs country era including monster hits such as Friends in Low Places, The Thunder Rolls, The Dance, Much Too Young (To Feel This Damn Old), Ainʼt Goinʼ Down (til the Sun Comes Up) and countless others. Backed by a talented band, GARTH LIVE! delivers a high-energy performance you won’t want to miss!

Shows for the 2026-27 Season

The schedule for the 2026-2027 season has been posted!

Click Here for the full list!

Western Plains Arts Association will open their season with a Jazz Trio at the Gateway in Oberlin on September 13th at 3:00 PM.

Four generations of Northwest Kansas residents have attended WPAA programs during our years. Members come from varied walks and occupations but have one thing in common, our love for live music and entertainment.

While costs are going up everywhere, WPAA has been careful to offer performing arts enthusiasts great value. Season ticket holders receive the best entertainment package anywhere. With 16 programs on the schedule, our prices are the same as last few years. $60 adult and $15 student. Family season tickets are $130. While adult, student and family season tickets may be purchased anytime from a board member, the best value is prior to or at the season opener.  Individual show gate prices are also affordable.

Most shows begin at 3 p.m. Central Sundays. Occasional shows at 7:30 p.m. 

The Jazz Trio in Oberlin

WPAA opens this season with The Jazz Trio at the Gateway in Oberlin on Sunday, Sept 13 at 3:00 p.m. 
The intersecting paths, passions and projects of these stellar musicians was seeded long ago. Come savor a delightful mix of intriguing standards created to uplift your Sunday afternoon.
Marguerite Juenemann - voice
In 1975, Marguerite Juenemann began singing in various Denver area venues. She soon co-founded Rare Silk which toured the world with Benny Goodman's Band. Marguerite is known for expressive and commanding performances that captivate.
Art Lande - piano
Art Lande is widely regarded as one of today's premier improvisational jazz pianists.
Art cultivated his craft at Wiliams College, shaped it on the West Coast and in Europe, and honed it in Boulder, CO, where he continues to elevate spontaneity, music, musicians and community.
Bill McCrossen - bass

Fate, Destiny and Choice Coming to Goodland

 Western Plains Arts Association presents the Pride of The Prairie Orchestra’s
“Fate, Destiny, and Choice” at the Goodland High School in Goodland on May 3, 2026 at 3:00 PM central time. The Pride of The Prairie Orchestra is conducted by Beverly Rucker.
Please come join us for the last program of this year.
Admission to this show is with a WPAA season ticket or an individual program ticket which may be purchased at

Young Original to Perform in Oakley!

 Western Plains Arts Association will have in concert Young Original at 3:00 PM on Sunday, April 19th at the Oakley High School Auditorium. Young Original is a vibrant and dynamic musical act that breathes fresh life into every venue they perform. Known for their innovative sound and energetic performances, they blend contemporary beats with timeless melodies, captivating audiences of all ages.  
Their youthful enthusiasm and creative flair make each performance an unforgettable experience, leaving listeners eager for more. With roots in both Nashville and Branson, their unique fusion of jazz, classical, folk, and pop is a must-see for all!
Some of their program highlights  are