One of the wonderful things about being at Ball State is being close to John R. Emens Auditorium. Concerts, plays, musicals and more have graced the stage and entertained a mix of students and locals. Emens is celebrating its 50th anniversary season this year, and there are a lot of exciting shows coming to campus as a result.
Hunter Hayes concert at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24
Country music’s rising star Hunter Hayes is making his first stop at Ball State on his headlining CMT tour. The artist is known for hits such as “I Want Crazy” and “Wanted,” and his music is heard frequently on country and Top 40 radio stations. For someone who is only 21 years old, Hayes has accomplished a lot and gained a large fan base quickly. Tickets for the event range from $27.50 to $37.50, depending on if you want main floor or balcony seats.
I haven’t attended a concert, but from what I have heard from friends, he puts on an energetic show for his fans.
“The Price Is Right Live!” at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23
“The Price Is Right” has entertained audiences in the studio and at home since the 1950s. It is known as one of the most interactive game shows ever and now, Ball State students will have the chance to win prizes. Unfortunately, legendary host Bob Barker won’t be at this show, but popular games such as Cliff Hangers and Plinko will be on stage. Students who wish to play must contact Emens box office as soon as possible. Tickets will be on sale Friday.
Florida Georgia Line concert at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 11
This country duo has taken the music scene by storm with hit songs like “Cruise” and “Get Your Shine On.” After spending the summer touring with Luke Bryan, Florida Georgia Line is going on their first headlining tour. Opening for the duo is the legendary Colt Ford, known for songs such as “Cold Beer” and “Chicken and Biscuits.” Ticket information won’t be released until the end of August, but you may want to make sure you are quick to get yours when they become available. This event will most likely sell out quickly.
Personally, I saw Florida Georgia Line this summer when they were with Luke Bryan in Chicago. They sound just as great, if not better, live than they do on their album, “Here’s to the Good Times.” Even if you only know one or two songs by the duo, it is still worth the price of a ticket to see them.
“Mamma Mia!” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5
The story never changes: one mom, one daughter and three possible fathers with a wedding in the works and the beauty of Greece surrounding it all. This production has wowed millions of people both on the stage and on the big screen, and it’s now coming to campus. Tickets for the event are free in advance for students or $11 at the door. In my opinion, this is the perfect performance for a girl’s night out before finals week and winter graduation.
“Hello Dolly!” at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 22
Since its Broadway debut in 1964, “Hello Dolly!” has been dubbed a musical theater success worldwide. Even its film adaptation has seen high success. The musical tells the story of a matchmaker that is looking for her own soulmate while pairing up other lovebirds. Is Dolly successful in finding a love of her own? Ball State students can find out for free when they get tickets at the box office prior to the event.
“Rain: A Tribute to The Beatles” at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 12
Tribute bands are never as great as the originals, but Rain honors one of the most notorious musical groups of all time successfully. It is easy to say that seeing Rain is as close to seeing the original Beatles as anyone will ever get, because the group has memorized every song and gesture ever made by the foursome. The group will perform classics such as “Hey Jude,” “Come Together” and “Let It Be” and give crowds a memorable concert experience. This show is also free for students in advance or $11 at the door.
Women of Ireland concert at 7:30 p.m. March 1
The Women of Ireland are leading ladies in Irish music. They are known for showcasing the next generation of Irish music in an exciting concert production. The group blends sounds of traditional and contemporary music. This event is free for students in advance or $11 at the door. Personally, there are quite a few Irish music groups that have come to campus over the years and I’ve heard nothing but good things about each performance. It may not be a bad way to spend a weekend night, especially since it’s free.
“Bring It On: The Musical” at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 6
Who didn’t like the notorious cheerleading movie? No matter what social group you belonged to, it was hard not to laugh at the characters as they fought their way to a national trophy. While it has the same name, the musical has a completely different cast and a storyline different from the original. All in all, they too have the same idea of wowing crowds with cheerleading theatrics. This performance is free for students or $11 at the door on the day of the event.
Martina McBride concert at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12
Martina McBride will always be known as one of the first ladies of country music. Her hits such as “Broken Wing” and “Independence Day” have left crowds singing along since her debut. During the holidays, she will stop at Emens on her “Joy of Christmas” tour. Tickets are currently on sale, ranging from $40 to $60. While I appreciate Martina and her breathtaking contribution to the world of music, I’m not sure that I would spend this much money to listen to holiday music. If I knew that it would be a mix of Christmas favorites and her top singles being performed, I would be in the front seat.
“Moulin Rouge: Royal Winnipeg Ballet” at 7:30 p.m. March 6
Every year at Ball State, there is usually one ballet performance of a popular story. One year, it was “Cinderella” and another, it was “Sleeping Beauty.” This year, it will be “Moulin Rouge.” While the performance may not be like the movie, it will still be a beautiful performance with sparkling costumes, lots of energy and exciting music. Tickets for this performance are $5 for students before the event or $10 at the door.
