MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community Concerts is preparing for a milestone season, featuring a new venue, a diverse lineup of performances, and what organizers say remains one of the best entertainment values in the community.
During a recent interview, board member Craig Johnson and booking representative Craig Reisner outlined plans for the upcoming concert season, which will mark a significant shift as performances move to the historic Fox Theatre.
Johnson said the move represents a major change for the long-running organization.
“For the first time in our 90-year history, we’re moving all of our productions and shows to the Fox Theatre,” Johnson said. “It’s a beautiful setting, and we’re really excited about that.”
The season will include six concerts, with memberships priced at $60 for access to all performances. Family and student rates are also available. Tickets and additional information can be found online at HutchinsonConcerts.com.
Johnson emphasized the affordability of the series.
“We truly believe it’s the best value in town for your entertainment dollar,” he said.
The current season will wrap up on April 24, with a performance titled "Live from Laurel Canyon", a show celebrating the influential music of the 1960s and 1970s. Those who purchase memberships for the upcoming season will be able to attend that concert at no additional cost.
Reisner, who works with communities across 16 states to book talent, said the upcoming lineup offers a wide variety of performances designed to appeal to broad audiences.
The 2026–27 season will open in September with Made in America, a brass ensemble performance celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary with a mix of patriotic and popular music.
Other highlights include:
- Garth Live! A tribute to the music of Garth Brooks - Oct. 24, 2026
- Comedian C Willi Myles - Nov. 12, 2026
- It Takes Two, A legendary duo revue - Feb. 12, 2027
- Solomon Jaye, Tap into Soul - March 14, 2027
- One of These Nights a tribute to the music of the Eagles - April 13, 2027
Reisner said the organization’s goal is to bring high-quality entertainment to communities that might not otherwise have access to touring acts.
“The whole idea is getting world-class entertainment away from the coasts into the middle of the United States,” he said. “Our audiences love to have them, and the artists love coming here.”
Johnson noted that all performances are designed to be family-friendly and accessible.
“It’s a great variety, and it’s meant for the entire family,” he said.
Memberships also include a reciprocal agreement with Great Bend Community Concerts, allowing attendees to access additional performances in that community.
Both Johnson and Reisner credited local volunteers for helping sustain the program, which has been a staple in Hutchinson for decades.
“We work hard to find artists that will entertain our audience while keeping the price affordable,” Reisner said. “But it’s also the volunteers in town who really make this work.”
With a new venue and a lineup that blends nostalgia, comedy and live music, organizers say they hope to continue building on the program’s long-standing tradition.
“We hope the community gets excited,” Johnson said. “This is one of the most exciting groups of concerts we’ve had in a number of years.”