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.

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.
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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.

BRAHMS AND BEYOND! The Ohio Valley Symphony

April 27, 2024
at 7:30 p.m.
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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).

THE CHRISTMAS SHOW! The Ohio Valley Symphony 2023

December 2, 2023
at 7:30 p.m.
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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.

Maestro 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.

Make your tax-deductible donation now!
Click one – or all! – of the Paypal links above!

Learn more about our candidates by clicking “Read More”

Ariel’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

Yuletide 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!

2023-24 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!

AROUND THE CAMPFIRE, The Ohio Valley Symphony

September 16, 2023
at 7:30 p.m.
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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.

SALUTE TO OUR VETERANS, The Ohio Valley Symphony

November 4, 2023
at 7:30 p.m.
PURCHASE TICKETS NOW
Veterans & Active Duty get 10% off! Select ‘veteran’ when choosing seats online.

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.  Local singer/songwriter Shana Smith will join for a few songs.  The only question – which color clarinet will Carl choose to play?

Carl Topilow, conductor
Carl Topilow is delighted to be returning to work again with the Ohio Valley Symphony!  Founding conductor of the Cleveland Pops Orchestra, his eclectic programs have been acclaimed by audiences and critics alike. He enjoys a dual career as both conductor and clarinetist, often finding an occasion to perform a selection with the Pops on one of his brightly colored clarinets.

A Video History of the Ariel Opera House

Watch the history of the Ariel Opera House unfold – from it’s opening on Christmas Day 1895 to the present.  Narrated by the founder and Executive Director Lora Lynn Snow.

Moxie Events presents THE FOUR C NOTES, Tribute to Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons

July 29, 2023
Evening at 7:30 p.m.
Purchase Tickets Now

Moxie Events presents and brings THE FOUR C NOTES to the Ariel Opera House stage on July 29th!

The Four C Notes are the Nation’s premiere tribute act dedicated to recreating the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons!  Created by John Michael Coppola, best known for his appearance in Chicago’s long-running production of the Broadway smash hit Jersey Boys, this show delivers all your favorites including Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Walk Like A Man, Workin’ My Way Back to You (Babe), Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You, Let’s Hang On, and many, many more!

With their vintage dance moves and high-energy performance, you’ll sing and dance the night away!

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.

Moxie Events presents A TRIBUTE TO MOTOWN

JUNE 17, 2023
Evening at 7:30 p.m.
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Tickets for the originally scheduled March 25th 7:30 p.m. concert will be honored at this rescheduled 7:30 p.m. show!

Moxie Events presents and brings to the stage A TRIBUTE TO MOTOWN!

This high energy homage to the legends  of Motown will transport you back in time as you visit the very best of “Hitsville, USA!” The show features a cast of 15 power-house vocalists who embody everyone from Diana Ross & The Supremes to Marvin Gay & The Jackson Five! The show has received rave reviews and sold out theaters throughout its highly acclaimed tour.A highlight of the show includes an extensive set of all your favorite “Temptations” choreography and songs.

Accompanied by a six-piece band with horns, their songbook delivers all of your favorite hits like, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough to Midnight Train to Georgia.” Creative Director Ms. Martha Brogden, whose credits include the national tour of Dreamgirls and the highly acclaimed Legends of Jazz, describes the show as “simply dynamic and loaded with talent.”

“This music has transcended generations and will continue to do so. There is something magical about Motown and we’re happy to bring it to The Ariel Opera House,” said Jennifer Saul Campbell of Moxie Events, the shows production company. 

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.

THE FLEETWOOD MAC EXPERIENCE!

MAY 13, 2023
at 7:30 p.m.
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Join the historic Ariel Theatre in welcoming Moxi Events presentation of America’s #1 Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band The FMX Experience.

The FMX Experience will recreate the legendary look and sound of the one and only Fleetwood Mac.

The evening will feature all of their beloved hits! You’ll hear Dreams, Go Your Own Way, Landslide, Silver Springs, Don’t Stop, Everywhere, Rhiannon, You Make Love Fun, and many more!!

Premium seats are Rows A-F and Row AA and BB in the balcony.
Group of 10 or more 10% discount available!
Doors open at 7:00 p.m.

The Roarin’ Twenties! The Ohio Valley Symphony

MAY 20, 2023
at 7:30 p.m.
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100 years ago a new age was dawning, the skirts were shorter, the money flowed freely and the the Roarin’ Twenties brought in a whole new style of American music. Be at the Ariel Opera House on May 20th to celebrate an entire concert of brand new arrangements of Roarin’ Twenties music by Cincinnati Pops Principal Arranger Tim Berens featuring vocalist Mandy Gaines and pianist Michael Chertock.

Be the first to hear these brand new arrangements as the concert will be recorded live by a Grammy winning recording engineer as he and his team capture it all for public television and radio broadcast as well as a CD. Be a part of this special occasion and purchase your tickets today!

This concert is presented in part by support from The Ohio Arts Council and The National Endowment for the Arts.

VETERANS MEMORIAL TRIBUTE The Wheeling Jamboree

May 27, 2023
at 7:30 p.m.
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Join the historic Ariel Opera House in welcoming the Wheeling Jamboree featuring Billy Payne and Shana Smith!

The members of the Wheeling Jamboree USA staff band are not only veterans of the legendary show but are known for backing and performing with the icons of country music! The Jamboree band is recognized as top-shelf musicians by those inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame.

Originating in 1933, The Wheeling Jamboree is “The Country Music Show with Tradition Like None Other!”

Billy Payne, a native West Virginian, played for many years with the Waylon Jennings Band and has shared the stage with many Country music legends. Performing throughout the U.S. and Europe, he has enjoyed gaining fans along the way with his traditional style of music and is a member of the Wheeling Jamboree. He has scored 2-top ten independent country songs and one on the Top 30.

Shana Smith, a country singer/songwriter, has called southern Ohio her home for the better part of a decade. Recording and performing in Nashville with some of the best musicians and artists. She was inducted as an artist member of the Wheeling Jamboree in 2014 and a member of the Country Music Association. Shana has released several independent albums and continues to write and perform.

THE JOHN GEE BLACK HISTORICAL CENTER’s 25th Anniversary Celebration

June 10, 2023
at 4:00 p.m.
FREE EVENT