Welcome to the historic Ariel Opera House
Welcome to the Ariel-Ann Carson Dater Performing Arts Centre, the historic Ariel Opera House, permanent home of The Ohio Valley Symphony, in the heart of Gallipolis, Ohio. Explore our website for upcoming performances and events, lessons, directions, and history! Be sure to contact the Ariel Opera House Box Office at 740-446-ARTS (2787) if you have any questions or if we may help you in planning your next visit to Gallipolis.
Read MoreTHE CHRISTMAS SHOW! The Ohio Valley Symphony
December 7, 2024
at 7:30 p.m.
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!
The Ohio Valley Symphony’s annual Christmas Show is a perennial favorite to set the tone for the holiday season. Always on the first Saturday in December, Maestro Steven Huang selects an enticing blend of musical holiday treats. Also featured is our annual fundraiser Maestro for a Moment when you’ll want to join in the fun and donate for your chosen candidate. Subscribers, be sure to purchase extra subscriber-discounted tickets for friends and family with your season subscriptions, this concert sells out early!
Steven Huang, conductor
Maestro Steven Huang is thrilled to return to Southeastern Ohio to the podium of The Ohio Valley Symphony, a Christmas tradition since 2018.
Mr. Huang has conducted orchestras and operas across the country and around the world. At the age of twenty-one Mr. Huang served as Music Director of the Bach Society Orchestra of Harvard University, where he received his undergraduate degree. While at Harvard, Mr. Huang also directed the Lowell House Opera (the oldest continuously running opera company in New England). Recently, he successfully concluded a sixteen-year appointment as Associate Professor and Director of Orchestras at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, where he brought the program to new achievements, including earning competitive accolades and awards, through over 200 performances that included symphonic concerts, opera, musical theater, and Halloween pops.
Read MoreAriel’s Merry TUBACHRISTMAS!
Join the fun at the ARIEL’S MERRY TUBACHRISTMAS!
December 14, 2024 at 2 pm
FREE CONCERT!
MERRY TUBACHRISTMAS is celebrating its 51st Anniversary (1974-2024). Created by Harvey Phillips, MERRY TUBACHRISTMAS 2024 will be presented in over 300 cities throughout the United States and in several foreign countries. TUBACHRISTMAS ensembles may attract participants aged 8 to over 90 years! The warm, rich organ-like sound of tuba-euphonium choir has won the ears and hearts of every audience!
Come and Listen 100% FREE!
TUBACHRISTMAS is 100% FREE for audience members who just want to come into our hall and experience the event. No tickets are necessary. It’s sure to be loads of fun, and will get you in the Christmas Spirit! Always the second Saturday in December at 2 pm.
-OR-
Join in the Fun and PLAY ALONG!
Pre-Register to Participate Today!
Bring your Tuba, Baritone, Euphonium, or other big brass buddy and join in the fun at the Ariel Theatre! Participants pay $10 to participate and will receive a 2024 commemorative button! Plus there are lots of souvenirs and music books available for purchase! Register at the door, or save time and Pre-Register here and we’ll have everything ready for you when you arrive!
Registration begins at 10:30am ~ Rehearsal begins at 11:00am
Read MoreDARING DANCES, The Ohio Valley Symphony
March 15, 2025
at 7:30 p.m.
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!
Daring Dances will move you with a selection of dazzling dance music under the baton of conductor Michael Chertock leading the OVS through Ravel’s La Valse and Bolero. Even more dazzling, Michael will also be the piano soloist on Leroy Anderson’s Piano Concerto. Talk about multi-tasking! This concert is sponsored In Memory of Clare E. Gettles.
Michael Chertock, conductor & pianist
Conductor and pianist Michael Chertock has fashioned a successful career as an orchestral soloist, collaborating with conductors such as James Conlon, Jaime Laredo, and Keith Lockhart.
His orchestral appearances include solo performances with, among others, The Philadelphia Orchestra, l’Orchestre Symphonique du Montreal, the Toronto Symphony, the Baltimore Symphony, the Naples Philharmonic, the Dayton Philharmonic, and The Ohio Valley Symphony. He made his Carnegie Hall debut in 1999 with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, performing Duke Ellington’s New World A’Comin’.
Michael first performed publicly at the age of 11 and by age 17, he performed the Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 3 with Andrew Litton. He has garnered numerous awards at major competitions, among them the top prize in the 1989 Joanna Hodges Int’l Piano Competition (Brahms Division) and the grand prize in the 1993 St. Charles International Piano Competition.
Read MoreROMANTIC SPRING, The Ohio Valley Symphony
April 26, 2025
at 7:30 p.m.
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!
Max Bruch’s Concerto for Clarinet and Viola will feature two OVS members, Laura Sabo on clarinet and Bernard Di Gregorio on viola, in Romantic Spring. Maestro Scott Woodward leads the orchestra in African-American composer William Grant Still’s Woodnotes, Howard Hansen’s Symphony No. 2, the “Romantic,” and other selections.
Dr. Scott E. Woodard, conductor
Dr. Scott E. Woodard was born in Huntington, WV and is proud to be a life-long West Virginian. He is the Music Director of the Butler Philharmonic Orchestra in Hamilton, Ohio, the Founding Music Director of the West Virginia State Philharmonic Orchestra of Charleston, WV, the Principal Guest Conductor of the Rimini Chamber Orchestra in Rimini, Italy, and the former Cover Conductor of the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra. His primary teachers were Dr. Leonid Korchmar of the St. Petersburg State Conservatory of Music and the Mariinsky Theatre and Dr. Oleg Proskuryna. Scott is the recipient of First Prizes at the International Conductor’s Workshop Competition (Macon, GA) and the International Academy of Advanced Conducting (St. Petersburg, Russian Federation).
2024 RIVER RECREATION PAGEANTS
The Gallia County Chamber of Commence presents the Miss & Young Miss River Rec Pageant at the historic Ariel Opera House.
JUNE 1, 2024
PURCHASE TICKETS NOW!
FIRECRACKER PAGEANT
Pageant at 9:00am, ticket prices $7-$10, doors open at 8:30pm
GALLIPOLIS RIVER REC QUEEN PAGEANT
Pageant at 6:00pm, ticket prices $10-$18, doors open at 5:30pm
Join us in celebrating the accomplishments of Gallia County youth and purchase your tickets today!
Helping contestants to grow their self-confidence while preparing them for their future what the Chamber’s River Rec program is all about. Our Royalty will have the opportunity to represent Gallia County while visiting fairs and festivals; all while learning social and public speaking skills.
VIP seats are available for Rows A-F.
This is a Gallia Co. Chamber of Commerce production.
For more information visit the River Rec Pageants website.
Be sure to visit the local Gallipolis sponsors of this fantastic community event!
Baskets Delight • El Toril Mexican Restaurant
Only bottled water is permitted in the historic auditorium, no food or other beverages.
Read MoreBRAHMS AND BEYOND! The Ohio Valley Symphony
April 27, 2024
at 7:30 p.m.
PURCHASE TICKETS NOW
West Virginia native and Cincinnati Symphony violinist Charles Morey will perform the Suite for Violin and Orchestra by African-American composer William Grant Still. The OVS will play Brahms Symphony No. 2, Op. 73 under the direction of Maestro Scott E. Woodard. What could be better!
Dr. Scott E. Woodard, conductor
Maestro Dr. Scott E. Woodard was born in Huntington, WV and is proud to be a life-long West Virginian. He is the Music Director of the Butler Philharmonic Orchestra in Hamilton, Ohio, the Founding Music Director of the West Virginia State Philharmonic Orchestra of Charleston, WV, the Principal Guest Conductor of the Rimini Chamber Orchestra in Rimini, Italy, and the former Cover Conductor of the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra. His primary teachers were Dr. Leonid Korchmar of the St. Petersburg State Conservatory of Music and the Mariinsky Theatre and Dr. Oleg Proskuryna. Scott is the recipient of First Prizes at the International Conductor’s Workshop Competition (Macon, GA) and the International Academy of Advanced Conducting (St. Petersburg, Russian Federation).
2024-25 SEASON SUBSCRIPTION! The Ohio Valley Symphony
PURCHASE NOW!
Existing subscribers who wish to keep their current seats call the Box Office to order!
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better The Ohio Valley Symphony’s 35th Season will present five concerts with five scintillating soloists and five fascinating guest conductors – well, six if you count our annual “Maestro for a Moment” winner!
Coming to us straight from the Hollywood Bowl, François López-Ferrer returns to the podium for a Fabulously French program on September 7th featuring the Cincinnati Symphony’s principal clarinetist Christopher Pell. Chris is performing the seldom heard and absolutely delightful Clarinet Concerto by Jean Francaix and the orchestra presents Ravel’s Ma Mere L’Oye (Mother Goose Suite) along with other selections.
The Enchantress Carline Waugh joins conductor Peter Stafford-Wilson on October 12th for a marvelous evening of vocal music by George Gershwin, Victor Herbert and Gian Carlo Menotti. Carline’s enchanting voice will beguile you in this evening of song.
Read MoreFABULOUSLY FRENCH! The Ohio Valley Symphony
September 7, 2024
at 7:30 p.m.
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!
Coming to us straight from the Hollywood Bowl, François López-Ferrer returns to the podium for a Fabulously French program featuring the Cincinnati Symphony’s principal clarinetist Christopher Pell. Chris is performing the seldom heard and absolutely delightful Clarinet Concerto by Jean Francaix and the orchestra presents Ravel’s Ma Mere L’Oye (Mother Goose Suite) along with other selections.
François López-Ferrer, conductor
Spanish-American conductor François López-Ferrer currently serves as Resident Conductor of the Académie of the Opéra de Paris. Former Associate Conductor of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra (CSO) and May Festival, and a 2021-22’ Dudamel Fellow with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, López-Ferrer stepped in for Louis Langrée with the CSO in January of 2022 for the US premiere of Mark Simpson’s Violin Concerto with Nicola Benedetti to great critical acclaim.
THE ENCHANTRESS, The Ohio Valley Symphony
October 12, 2024
at 7:30 p.m.
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!
The Enchantress Carline Waugh joins conductor Peter Stafford Wilson for a marvelous evening of vocal music by George Gershwin, Victor Herbert and Gian Carlo Menotti. Carline’s enchanting voice will beguile you in this evening of song.
Peter Stafford Wilson, conductor
Peter Stafford Wilson is Music Director of Ohio’s Springfield Symphony Orchestra. Concurrently, he holds the post of Music Director of the Westerville Symphony, and was named Principal Conductor of Tulsa Ballet in 2012. With the SSO he has brought international attention for Agriculture and the Arts Growing Together and American Made: Celebrating Our Manufacturing Heritage and a new multi-media, multi discipline production of Gustav Holst’s The Planets resulted in a sellout house. Mr. Wilson held the posts of Assistant and Associate Conductor of The Columbus Symphony Orchestra for 28 seasons. Mr. Wilson has had enormous community reaction and has been recognized as “Best Music Director” and “Best in the ‘Bus 2015” for his work in Columbus. He also served as Music Director of the Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestra, which he has regularly led in local and regional concerts.
PREMIERE EVENT AT THE COLONY! American Rhapsody with The Ohio Valley Symphony
February 16, 2024
7:00 pm and 9:00 pm
At The Colony Theatre & Restaurant
Reservations recommended at 740-209-0110
Join us for the premiere of “American Rhapsody with The Ohio Valley Symphony” on Friday, February 16 at the Colony Theatre & Restaurant in downtown Gallipolis, Ohio. Guest artists from the show will be on hand to autograph copies of the CD and DVDs, which will be available for sale at the show. Dinner reservations are recommended but not required for the 7 pm and 9 pm showings.
The Ohio Valley Symphony concert was recorded in May 2023 and features music of the Roarin’ 1920’s in all new arrangements by Tim Berens, of Berens Pops Library. Tim’s arrangements are performed all over this country and abroad. He will be on hand to speak about the process of creating the show and to answer questions.
Vocalist Mandy Gaines shares her vocal prowess with songs such as ’S Wonderful, Bye Bye Blackbird and Someone to Watch Over Me and other tunes in her own delightful way. Pianist Michael Chertock offers up his scintillating version of the perennial favorite Rhapsody in Blue like never heard before. He can also be heard playing stride piano within the orchestra.
You won’t want to miss the opportunity to see this spectacular event on the big screen and enjoy fine food and festivities! Make your reservations today by calling The Colony at 740-209-0110 or through eventbrite.com.
Join the fun and dress in your favorite Roarin’ 20’s outfits! Drawings will be held for door prizes (must be present to win).
Watch the video below for a taste of what’s in store!
Watch “American Rhapsody with The Ohio Valley Symphony” featuring conductor and arranger Tim Berens, vocalist Mandy Gaines, and pianist Michael Chertok across the nation and in Canada on American Public Television!
THE ENIGMATIC ELGAR! The Ohio Valley Symphony
March 16, 2024
at 7:30 p.m.
PURCHASE TICKETS NOW
British composer Edward Elgar’s music will be featured when the Cincinnati Symphony’s principal cellist Ilya Finkelshteyn joins Maestro François López-Ferrer and the OVS for the Cello Concerto, Op. 36. Paired with that is Elgar’s Enigma Variations which continues to capture music lovers attention with its haunting melodies and wistful musical descriptions of his friends for each of the 14 movements.
François López-Ferrer, conductor
Spanish-American conductor François López-Ferrer currently serves as Resident Conductor of the Académie of the Opéra de Paris. Former Associate Conductor of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra (CSO) and May Festival, and a 2021-22’ Dudamel Fellow with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, López-Ferrer stepped in for Louis Langrée with the CSO in January of 2022 for the US premiere of Mark Simpson’s Violin Concerto with Nicola Benedetti to great critical acclaim.
THE CHRISTMAS SHOW! The Ohio Valley Symphony 2023
December 2, 2023
at 7:30 p.m.
PURCHASE TICKETS NOW
Maestro Steven Huang has planned another grand and memorable Christmas Show program the entire family will enjoy, featuring many songs of the season. Get your tickets early as we always sell out! Who will be the next Maestro for a Moment? Join the fun and become a candidate!
Steven Huang, conductor
Maestro Steven Huang is thrilled to return to Southeastern Ohio to the podium of The Ohio Valley Symphony, a Christmas tradition since 2018.
Mr. Huang has conducted orchestras and operas across the country and around the world. At the age of twenty-one Mr. Huang served as Music Director of the Bach Society Orchestra of Harvard University, where he received his undergraduate degree. While at Harvard, Mr. Huang also directed the Lowell House Opera (the oldest continuously running opera company in New England). Recently, he successfully concluded a sixteen-year appointment as Associate Professor and Director of Orchestras at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, where he brought the program to new achievements, including earning competitive accolades and awards, through over 200 performances that included symphonic concerts, opera, musical theater, and Halloween pops.
Read MoreMaestro for a Moment FUN-draiser 2023
Congratulations Maestro for a Moment Nick Young! The Ohio Valley Symphony’s annual Maestro for a Moment Fundraiser is one of the highlights of the season for both audience and orchestra! Each season three candidates vie for the opportunity to conduct the orchestra during the The Christmas Show on December 2nd, 2023, in a rousing rendition of Sleigh Ride! Thank you to this year’s candidates are Selena Hunt, owner of The Flour Girls Baking Company located just down the street on Second Avenue; Bryan Stepp, Exec. VP of Lending/Credit at The Ohio Valley Bank Company; and Nicholas Young, Bands Director at Gallia Academy High School and Middle School.
Learn more about our candidates by clicking “Read More”
Read MoreAriel’s Merry TUBACHRISTMAS! 2023
Join the fun at the ARIEL’S MERRY TUBACHRISTMAS!
December 9, 2023 at 2 pm
FREE CONCERT!
MERRY TUBACHRISTMAS is celebrating its 49th Anniversary (1974-2023). Created by Harvey Phillips, MERRY TUBACHRISTMAS 2023 will be presented in over 300 cities throughout the United States and in several foreign countries. TUBACHRISTMAS ensembles may attract participants aged 8 to over 90 years! The warm, rich organ-like sound of tuba-euphonium choir has won the ears and hearts of every audience!
Come and Listen 100% FREE!
TUBACHRISTMAS is 100% FREE for audience members who just want to come into our hall and experience the event. No tickets are necessary. It’s sure to be loads of fun, and will get you in the Christmas Spirit! Always the second Saturday in December at 2 pm.
-OR-
Join in the Fun and PLAY ALONG!
Pre-Register to Participate Today!
Bring your Tuba, Baritone, Euphonium, or other big brass buddy and join in the fun at the Ariel Theatre! Participants pay $10 to participate and will receive a 2023 commemorative button! Plus there are lots of souvenirs and music books available for purchase! Register at the door, or save time and Pre-Register here and we’ll have everything ready for you when you arrive!
Registration begins at 10:30am ~ Rehearsal begins at 11:00am
Read MoreYuletide Joy!
3:00 p.m.
FREE CONCERT!
Join us in the historic Ariel Chamber Theatre as we unwrap the beauty of the season through the gift of music!
Music teachers Rebecca Honett and John McAlister bring together the talented students of The Ariel Academy to present vocal and piano performances featuring favorite holiday carols, classical standards, and contemporary classics – with favorites from the Broadway stage and silver screen.
From intimate solo performances to eight hands playing four keyboards simultaneously, there’s sure to be something for everyone. We invite all families and friends to share in this joyous afternoon that is sure to make your season merry and bright! And don’t forget to make post-recital plans to visit Gallipolis in Lights, a dazzling display of thousands of twinkling lights in Gallipolis City Park, as the perfect kiss goodnight to this festive day.
No Tickets Necessary • Donations are welcome!
Read More2023-24 SEASON SUBSCRIPTION! The Ohio Valley Symphony
New subscribers click the purple button to purchase your season subscription.
Existing subscribers who wish to keep their current seats call the Box Office to order!
The Ohio Valley Symphony enters its 34th Season with a delightful and diverse selection of concerts sure to please all music lovers. The season will see five exciting maestros conducting and feature world class soloists.
We kick things off Around the Campfire with the American Pops Orchestra founder and conductor Luke Frazier. On April 15th Luke is joined by vocalist Hilary Morrow, pianist Jacqueline Schwab and guitarist Garrett Gleason and providing The Ohio Valley Symphony with several world premiere selections as well as the music of Copland, Mussorgsky, and MacDowell.
Maestro Carl Topilow was such a hit when he appeared with The Ohio Valley Symphony a couple years ago that he is back by popular demand in a Salute to Our Veterans on November 4th. Local singer/songwriter Shana Smith will join for a few songs. The only question – which color clarinet will Carl choose to play?
Click the “Read More” to view & download the new season brochure!
Read MoreAROUND THE CAMPFIRE, The Ohio Valley Symphony
September 16, 2023
at 7:30 p.m.
PURCHASE TICKETS NOW
The Ariel heats up Around the Campfire with the American Pops Orchestra founder and conductor Luke Frazier. On September 16 Luke is joined by vocalist Hilary Morrow, pianist Jacqueline Schwab and guitarist Garrett Gleason and providing The Ohio Valley Symphony with several world premiere selections as well as music of Copland, Mussorgsky and MacDowell.
Luke Frazier, conductor
Luke Frazier believes that the future of orchestral music is breaking down barriers between orchestras and audiences. The most important priority for a modern conductor is not only musical excellence, but also creating diverse and engaging programming that brings communities together through the joy of music. Conductors are a bridge between audiences and orchestras and the responsibility that comes with that is something Luke takes to heart every day.
Moxie Events presents OUT OF EDEN, a Tribute to THE EAGLES
Saturday, September 30, 2023
Evening at 7:30 p.m.
Premium Seats $35 – Reserved Seats $28 plus fees
Purchase Tickets Now
Moxie Events presents and brings to the Ariel stage on September 30th OUT OF EDEN: The Ultimate Eagle’s Tribute Band recreates the legendary one of a kind sound of one of the most beloved bands of all time: The Eagles.
Rock out to all of their top hits including Hotel California, Desperado, Take it Easy, The Last Resort, Take it to the Limit, One of These Nights, Lyin’ Eyes, AND MANY MORE!
Premium seats are available for Rows A-F and Row AA and BB in the balcony. Group of 10 or more tickets get 10% off!
Door open 7:00 p.m. Concert starts at 7:30. This is a Moxie Events Production.
Cancelled: Moxie Events presents SOUNDS OF SINATRA
Saturday, October 7, 2023
Evening at 7:30 p.m.
MOXIE EVENTS HAS CANCELLED THIS PERFORMANCE DUE TO UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES.
Ticket Refunds will be be automatically processed through Etix. Please allow 5 days for processing and email the Box Office at info@arieltheatre.org if you have any questions.
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