
The Instrumental Music Program at Western Nebraska Community College presents "Fiesta!
Music of Celebration" Saturday, November 14. The seventh annual Fall Ball, held at
the Gering Civic Center, livens things up for this one night only dinner and show
event.
"Fiesta! Music of Celebration" features instrumental music ensembles, under the direction
of WNCC Instrumental Music Director Dr. Nathaniel Johnson, including student, faculty,
and community talent. The evening begins with a social hour at 6:15 p.m. with live
music provided by WNCC alum - and local favorite - Debby Wagner. The show begins at
7:00 p.m. with performances by the Cougar Athletic Band, Monumental Rock Combo, Western
Nebraska Winds, and the Fire-in-the-Pan Swingers.
"We've got some really fun music lined up," said Johnson of this year's program. "It's
all a party. We're focusing on music of celebration from Latin America and the good
ol' US of A. You'll hear some of your favorite party songs over the course of the
evening, from Kool & the Gang to Ricky Martin to Macklemore, as well as a couple of
standards from the world of the Argentine tango. All of the groups have some great
stuff going on, particularly the Fire-in-the-Pan Swingers."
Along with great music, patrons will enjoy a festive dinner meal including shredded
beef and pollo asada with fresh tortillas, pico de gallo, guacamole, and sour cream;
cheese enchiladas; pork chili; Spanish rice; refried beans; cinnamon and sugar churros
with honey; and coffee and iced tea. The meal and event cost $30.
"I'm excited that I get to do Fall Ball and then turn right around and play some Dixieland,"
said Johnson, referring to his performance the following afternoon. Johnson is a long-time
member of the 101st Army Band, whose Dixieland band will be offering a free performance
of traditional jazz at the Midwest Theater in Scottsbluff on November 15. "I can't
think of a better way to spend a weekend!"
All tickets for the Fall Ball are reserved and may be purchased at the WNCC Business
Office or by phone at 308.635.6020 beginning Monday, October 26.