Step into the magical world of "A Year with Frog and Toad," where the stage comes alive with the enchanting adventures of two best friends – the lively Frog and the sometimes grumpy, always lovable Toad! Imagine a Broadway hit that's not just a musical but a delightful journey through the four seasons, filled with laughter, lessons, and heartwarming moments.

As Spring arrives, Frog and Toad wake up from hibernation and embark on a series of whimsical escapades – from planting gardens and swimming to sledding down snowy hills. Their friendship blossoms through celebrations of uniqueness and shared joy, creating a story that resonates with the magic of enduring friendships.

Tickets available now!

Step into the magical world of "A Year with Frog and Toad," where the stage comes alive with the enchanting adventures of two best friends – the lively Frog and the sometimes grumpy, always lovable Toad! Imagine a Broadway hit that's not just a musical but a delightful journey through the four seasons, filled with laughter, lessons, and heartwarming moments.

As Spring arrives, Frog and Toad wake up from hibernation and embark on a series of whimsical escapades – from planting gardens and swimming to sledding down snowy hills. Their friendship blossoms through celebrations of uniqueness and shared joy, creating a story that resonates with the magic of enduring friendships.

Tickets available now!

Step into the magical world of "A Year with Frog and Toad," where the stage comes alive with the enchanting adventures of two best friends – the lively Frog and the sometimes grumpy, always lovable Toad! Imagine a Broadway hit that's not just a musical but a delightful journey through the four seasons, filled with laughter, lessons, and heartwarming moments.

As Spring arrives, Frog and Toad wake up from hibernation and embark on a series of whimsical escapades – from planting gardens and swimming to sledding down snowy hills. Their friendship blossoms through celebrations of uniqueness and shared joy, creating a story that resonates with the magic of enduring friendships.

Tickets available now!

GO INTO THE SHARK TANK AND WIN!

You’re Invited to Attend Chamber Shark Tank

Tuesday April 30, 2024
6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Empire Arts Center
415 Demers Avenue, Grand Forks

Pizza & Cash Bar Available for purchase

FREE EVENT FOR THE PUBLIC

Interested in pitching your concept to the Sharks?

Contact barry@gochamber.org

We are looking for local comedians interested in participating in our Open Mic Comedy Nights at the Empire Arts Center in Grand Forks. All are welcome!

This is the perfect space for an intimate performance experience with a welcoming audience of peers. We want to give up-and-coming and more experienced comedians a professional theater venue.

A prime opportunity to share and learn from each other while developing their skills to a whole ‘nother level.

Comedians who register with us on our website for each monthly performance can be given guaranteed spots and will be showcased on our media. Never fear! We will always keep spots open for walk-ins!

Join us monthly for Open Mic Comedy, presented by Subgenres Channel & Subgenres Media Group.

Thursday, May 2 @ 7 pm

Thursday, June 6 @ 7 pm

Thursday, July 11 @ 7 pm

Step into the magical world of "A Year with Frog and Toad," where the stage comes alive with the enchanting adventures of two best friends – the lively Frog and the sometimes grumpy, always lovable Toad! Imagine a Broadway hit that's not just a musical but a delightful journey through the four seasons, filled with laughter, lessons, and heartwarming moments.

As Spring arrives, Frog and Toad wake up from hibernation and embark on a series of whimsical escapades – from planting gardens and swimming to sledding down snowy hills. Their friendship blossoms through celebrations of uniqueness and shared joy, creating a story that resonates with the magic of enduring friendships.

Tickets available now!

Step into the magical world of "A Year with Frog and Toad," where the stage comes alive with the enchanting adventures of two best friends – the lively Frog and the sometimes grumpy, always lovable Toad! Imagine a Broadway hit that's not just a musical but a delightful journey through the four seasons, filled with laughter, lessons, and heartwarming moments.

As Spring arrives, Frog and Toad wake up from hibernation and embark on a series of whimsical escapades – from planting gardens and swimming to sledding down snowy hills. Their friendship blossoms through celebrations of uniqueness and shared joy, creating a story that resonates with the magic of enduring friendships.

Tickets available now!

Step into the magical world of "A Year with Frog and Toad," where the stage comes alive with the enchanting adventures of two best friends – the lively Frog and the sometimes grumpy, always lovable Toad! Imagine a Broadway hit that's not just a musical but a delightful journey through the four seasons, filled with laughter, lessons, and heartwarming moments.

As Spring arrives, Frog and Toad wake up from hibernation and embark on a series of whimsical escapades – from planting gardens and swimming to sledding down snowy hills. Their friendship blossoms through celebrations of uniqueness and shared joy, creating a story that resonates with the magic of enduring friendships.

Tickets available now!

Join us on May 9th and 10th at 7 pm for a night of laughter, music, and inspiration as a group of talented actors from Nashville, Tennessee take the stage in this original production. Set in an old sawmill turned theater practice space and country bar, "Our Favorite Hangout," the play unfolds in a unique setting where actors, actresses, bartenders, and country singers come together in support groups and unexpected friendships.

As the characters navigate life's challenges and uncertainties, they learn valuable lessons reflecting on living each day to the fullest from a dear friend who has recently passed away, Rhonda May Anderson. The play is a heartwarming journey filled with humor, music, dance, and a touch of therapy that will leave you laughing, crying, and thoroughly entertained.

Directed by Carla Tice and assisted by Audra Nikle, "One Day at a Time" promises to be a night to remember. Featuring a talented cast and crew from Performing for Change, a social justice theater group advocating for positive changes in society for people with disabilities, there will be surprise guests, you never know who you will run into in Nashville. This production is sure to inspire and uplift audiences of all ages.

Don't miss the opportunity to experience this unforgettable performance at the Empire Arts Center. Tickets are available now by calling 701-746-7840 or visiting our website. Come join us for a night of laughter, friendship, and the joy of living "One Day at a Time."

For more information, please contact:

Listen Center
2100 S. Washington
701-746-7840
Carla@Listencenter.org

Join us on May 9th and 10th at 7 pm for a night of laughter, music, and inspiration as a group of talented actors from Nashville, Tennessee take the stage in this original production. Set in an old sawmill turned theater practice space and country bar, "Our Favorite Hangout," the play unfolds in a unique setting where actors, actresses, bartenders, and country singers come together in support groups and unexpected friendships.

As the characters navigate life's challenges and uncertainties, they learn valuable lessons reflecting on living each day to the fullest from a dear friend who has recently passed away, Rhonda May Anderson. The play is a heartwarming journey filled with humor, music, dance, and a touch of therapy that will leave you laughing, crying, and thoroughly entertained.

Directed by Carla Tice and assisted by Audra Nikle, "One Day at a Time" promises to be a night to remember. Featuring a talented cast and crew from Performing for Change, a social justice theater group advocating for positive changes in society for people with disabilities, there will be surprise guests, you never know who you will run into in Nashville. This production is sure to inspire and uplift audiences of all ages.

Don't miss the opportunity to experience this unforgettable performance at the Empire Arts Center. Tickets are available now by calling 701-746-7840 or visiting our website. Come join us for a night of laughter, friendship, and the joy of living "One Day at a Time."

For more information, please contact:

Listen Center
2100 S. Washington
701-746-7840
Carla@Listencenter.org

Kevin Hines is a storyteller. He is a best selling author, global public speaker, and award winning documentary filmmaker. In the Year 2000, Kevin attempted to take his life by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge. Many factors contributed to his miraculous survival including a sea lion which kept him afloat until the Coast Guard arrived. Kevin now travels the world sharing his story of hope, healing, and recovery while teaching people of all ages the art of wellness & the ability to survive pain with true resilience.

Admission is free. Attendance limited to 400 guests.

ENTERTAINMENT AT ITS LOWEST POINT!

3 unsuspecting players will compete head to head in a series of challenges. They will have to wager how many points they want to lose if they complete the challenge. If they lose the game, they gain those points. Whoever has the lowest score, wins the show.

The host, Roberto Kerry, returns to his hometown to run these three contestants through a chaotic race to the bottom. Roberto is a comedian/musician who recently finished a sold out run of his play "Silly Songs With Bert" at The Spade NYC, as well as working with several improv groups in Brooklyn.

Will the players be able to overcome his set of challenges? Find out on May 17!

Tickets available soon!

Join the Empire & Rosenquist Law Office For
Family Films Every Month!

Bring the whole family to experience classic films in the historic Empire Arts Center!
$2 all seats, tickets available at the door.

MY GIRL

A girl grieving the death of her mother befriends a boy who suffers from allergies and helps her out of her shell. Meanwhile, her undertaker father begins a relationship with a make-up artist who comes to work for him.

Check back for more info soon!

The Biggest Little-Wrestling show of all time is coming to The Empire Arts Center!

This event will sell out in advance so get your tickets now using the link below, or purchase in person from venue! Tap video for more info!

For ages 18+

You’re invited to

HAPPY HOUR

A Stand-up Comedy Fundraiser

Get ready to laugh until your sides ache at Happy Hour, a hilarious event featuring several of Greater Grand Forks’ most talented comedians!

Each comedian brings their unique style and perspective to the stage, guaranteeing a diverse range of comedy that will cater to every sense of humor.

The fun doesn't stop there – not only will you be treated to an evening of laughter, but your ticket purchase will also go towards supporting the Empire Arts Center, a cornerstone of our community's cultural scene. Your ticket helps ensure that the arts continue to thrive in our city for years to come.

General admission.
Cash bar will be available.
Recommended age: 18+

MEET THE COMEDIANS

CALEB EILTS

Caleb Eilts has been telling jokes his entire life, but he found a passion for doing it in front of a crowd 3 years ago. Since his first open mic at Archives Coffee House, Caleb has become a staple performer for the venue and works alongside the others in this show to recruit new comics in the community. With a life of entertaining ups and downs, he has worked hard to develop his comedic timing, and now it’s time to make our community laugh.

NELLIE PIEKARSKI

Nellie Piekarski is one of Greater Grand Forks’ newest comedians. Clocking in at just under one year of experience, Piekarski has taken the area comedy scene by storm. From being a regular at open mic nights in the region to opening for Paint the Town in the packed basement venue of Half Brothers, Nellie brings her audience into her life. With each performance, Nellie gives audiences a raw look into her world through her engaging, no-filter storytelling style.

MATTHEW TERNUS

Matthew Ternus has taken the stage throughout the Greater Grand Forks area for the past three years. With standup comedy experience performing at open-mic venues like Archives Coffee House and Half Brothers, and with improv comedy experience through Nine & Numb, Ternus brings his unique storytelling-style of standup comedy to the Empire’s stage for the first time. An early nominee for the category Entertainer in Community Votes Grand Forks 2024, Matthew aims to have everyone laughing either with him or at him.

MORE COMEDIANS TO BE ANNOUNCED AT
A LATER DATE!

We are looking for local comedians interested in participating in our Open Mic Comedy Nights at the Empire Arts Center in Grand Forks. All are welcome!

This is the perfect space for an intimate performance experience with a welcoming audience of peers. We want to give up-and-coming and more experienced comedians a professional theater venue.

A prime opportunity to share and learn from each other while developing their skills to a whole ‘nother level.

Comedians who register with us on our website for each monthly performance can be given guaranteed spots and will be showcased on our media. Never fear! We will always keep spots open for walk-ins!

Join us monthly for Open Mic Comedy, presented by Subgenres Channel & Subgenres Media Group.

Thursday, June 6 @ 7 pm

Thursday, July 11 @ 7 pm

“If there is anyone truer to the music and spirit of Johnny Cash, you’d have to prove it to me.”

- Jamie Winpenny, Honolulu Weekly

Whether you are an old timer that grew up listening to Mr. Cash in your tractor or a young soldier driving your tank across the deserts of the Middle East with the Man in Black in your headphones, the Church of Cash will bring his music, with style and energy to fans everywhere. What the Church of Cash has that no one else can match is their loyalty to the song and the message that Johnny left to all of us. The band merely keeps this word alive with a youthful spirit that has entertained audiences completely.

Presale tickets $24.50

At the Door $30.00

Experience the heartbeat of local talent and community spirit at Empire Alive 2024!

Join us on Saturday, June 15, for an electrifying evening dedicated to supporting the Empire Arts Center. As we strive to ensure the comfort and enjoyment of our patrons, Empire Alive promises not only a showcase of stellar musical acts but also an opportunity to contribute to the upgrade of our aging heating and air conditioning systems.

From the stirring rendition of the National Anthem by the talented Lacey Schuler to the dynamic performances of four outstanding area bands, immerse yourself in an unforgettable night of music and community.

Here's what's in store:

• 5:00pm: Doors open.

• 5:55pm: National Anthem by Lacey Schuler

• 6:00pm – 6:40pm: Cheron

• 6:50pm – 7:35pm: Jazz on Tap

• 7:50pm – 8:40pm: Local Blend

• 9:00pm – 10:00pm: The Dank

Unable to attend? Please consider making a donation to Empire Alive 2024. Your donation will enable the Empire to continue to serve our community and the surrounding area.

MEET THE ACTS

The Dank

Based out of Grand Forks, North Dakota, The Dank is a six-piece, groove driven, funk and rock-n-roll band that formed in 2017. High energy live music is their specialty and with multiple singers/songwriters pulling inspiration from genres from every corner of the musical realm, their music has something for everyone. Playing a combination of original music and cover songs, their live performances have made them a local favorite in North Dakota and surrounding areas.

Cheron

A jazz, soul, and rock band, Cheron is no stranger to the Empire’s main stage. Having performed and recorded their upcoming debut album all at the Empire, and appearing across various venues both locally and regionally, the members of Cheron invite audiences into their world with a mixture of easy-going and fast-paced songs.

Jazz on Tap

Jazz On Tap has been providing this sense of ecstasy for over two decades to the Red River Valley Area, gracing the small community with their unique blend of soulful jazz, tight funk and vintage Rock of the highest caliber.  The manifest of three brilliant musicians, Jazz on Tap has been proving to the world that you don't have to come from a big city to be amazing performers. Friendship, respect, and pure fun culminate into a solid energy that allows every listener to let their hair down and relax through the release in which music provides.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?

• Music by four talented bands, all with local and regional artists.

• A cash bar, serving your favorite drinks.

• Food trucks outside in the Empire’s alleyway.

• A night full of community, celebration, and fundraising to ensure the Empire can continue to provide arts and culture for another 25 years!

Max Fleet is a contemporary touring illusionist, magician, and artist. His unique brand of show has been seen by millions across the globe! Whether you have seen Max Fleet on NBC's ‘The Voice’, Social Media, Hard Rock Casinos, or in Midwest North America's Entertainment Capitol, Branson Missouri, Max Fleet has an incredible show in store for you!

Max Fleet was born in Lake Benton, Minnesota with a dream to pursue magic. 

He saw magic in a different way and believed that the art needed a rebrand from rabbits out of hats and magic wands. 

He fuzed his love for music, choreography, and magic to create a "concert like" magic experience which he has been developing for 10 years!

By the age of 16 he was already pushing himself into the magic community to make connections and learn about the craft and hone his skills. 

Now at 20 years old, Max Fleet tours professionally with a show of his own, entertaining thousands and Inspiring others to follow their dreams! 

This will be Max Fleet’s 3rd time performing at the Empire!

Max has a special connection with Grand Forks, who gave Max his first solo sold out performance ever!

This time, Max is bringing his BIGGEST SHOW YET! Grand scale illusions, audience interaction, dancers, choreographed lighting, popular music from all generations, from Santana’s “Black magic woman” and Lesley Gore’s “It’s My Party”, to Taylor Swift’s “Style”.

Whether you are a fan of concerts, magic shows, or both! This is the place for you!!

Let loose, be loud, and have fun!

Tickets available soon!

She Kills Monsters tells the story of high schooler Agnes Evans as she deals with the death of her younger sister, Tilly. When Agnes stumbles upon Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons notebook, she finds herself catapulted into a journey of discovery and action-packed adventure in the imaginary world that was her sister’s refuge. The plot takes place in reality and in the imaginary game world; In the game world Agnes embarks on an action-packed quest to save her sister's soul, coming face to face with homicidal fairies, raunchy ogres and blood thirsty cheerleaders, learns about Tilly's exploration with her sexuality and discovers a side of herself she never knew existed. This high-octane dramatic comedy by acclaimed playwright Qui Nguyen offers a heart-pounding homage to the geek and warrior within us all.

Tickets available soon!

We are looking for local comedians interested in participating in our Open Mic Comedy Nights at the Empire Arts Center in Grand Forks. All are welcome!

This is the perfect space for an intimate performance experience with a welcoming audience of peers. We want to give up-and-coming and more experienced comedians a professional theater venue.

A prime opportunity to share and learn from each other while developing their skills to a whole ‘nother level.

Comedians who register with us on our website for each monthly performance can be given guaranteed spots and will be showcased on our media. Never fear! We will always keep spots open for walk-ins!

Join us monthly for Open Mic Comedy, presented by Subgenres Channel & Subgenres Media Group.

She Kills Monsters tells the story of high schooler Agnes Evans as she deals with the death of her younger sister, Tilly. When Agnes stumbles upon Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons notebook, she finds herself catapulted into a journey of discovery and action-packed adventure in the imaginary world that was her sister’s refuge. The plot takes place in reality and in the imaginary game world; In the game world Agnes embarks on an action-packed quest to save her sister's soul, coming face to face with homicidal fairies, raunchy ogres and blood thirsty cheerleaders, learns about Tilly's exploration with her sexuality and discovers a side of herself she never knew existed. This high-octane dramatic comedy by acclaimed playwright Qui Nguyen offers a heart-pounding homage to the geek and warrior within us all.

Tickets available soon!

She Kills Monsters tells the story of high schooler Agnes Evans as she deals with the death of her younger sister, Tilly. When Agnes stumbles upon Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons notebook, she finds herself catapulted into a journey of discovery and action-packed adventure in the imaginary world that was her sister’s refuge. The plot takes place in reality and in the imaginary game world; In the game world Agnes embarks on an action-packed quest to save her sister's soul, coming face to face with homicidal fairies, raunchy ogres and blood thirsty cheerleaders, learns about Tilly's exploration with her sexuality and discovers a side of herself she never knew existed. This high-octane dramatic comedy by acclaimed playwright Qui Nguyen offers a heart-pounding homage to the geek and warrior within us all.

Tickets available soon!