Since its Gala Opening Performance with Liberace on Feb. 7, 1980, the Lutcher Theater in Orange has hosted only the best in world-class entertainment. The 1,460-seat performing arts facility is the largest Performing Arts Series from Houston to New Orleans.
In the midst of their 46th season, a new series of sorts was created – Lutcher enLight Emerging Artist Series – featuring a musical performance from The Imaginaries on Saturday, Jan. 31, at 7:30 p.m.
“As I search for events to bring to the Lutcher, I attend multiple conferences each year that include artist showcases,” said Lynae Sanford, executive director. “I have been so excited to discover numerous incredibly talented emerging artists, and I became passionate about connecting these artists with our community. So, our team began to brainstorm about how we could present some of these artists for our Lutcher audience to enjoy their musical talent in an intimate, immersive setting, hoping to produce a ‘date night’ or ‘friends’ night out’ feel while keeping ticket prices affordable for all.”
This concert series is set mostly in candlelight, industrial in nature, mixing wooden and metal elements and sometimes with a huge chandelier. Panels are added to section off the auditorium seating that create a smaller space, proportionate to the audience size. Wine, soft drinks, coffee and charcuterie boxes are available for purchase from Free State Cellars.
“All in all, Lutcher enLight events provide a time and space to connect with friends and family while stepping away from the hectic pace of the world for little peace and tranquility,” added Sanford.
But the most impressive element of Lutcher enLight concerts is the caliber of musical talent.
The Imaginaries are a husband-and-wife Oklahoma based team of Shane Henry (vocals/guitar) and Maggie McClure (vocals/keyboards) who blend gritty blues-rock roots with boldly vulnerable singer-songwriter sensibility to create a pop-Americana sound reminiscent of Tom Petty, Fleetwood Mac, The Civil Wars and Bonnie Raitt. Their dynamic harmonies, soulful storytelling and electrifying musicianship have earned them national recognition across music, film and television.
Tickets are $43 and may be purchased online at lutcher.org or by calling the box office at (409) 886-5535.
“I’ve had the privilege of visiting with Maggie and Shane on several occasions,” said Sanford. “The chemistry between them is genuine, as is their desire to connect with their audiences on a personal level that makes you feel like you’ve known them for years. To experience their music is to feel like they’ve invited you into their living room and are sharing their love story with you. And every song has a positive message, leaving you in a better place having listened to it.”
With successful solo careers and a powerful partnership, Maggie and Shane share real-world experience and practical guidance. Their resume includes producing and starring in the feature film “A Cowgirl’s Song,” writing music for major movies and series, and earning more than 75 sync placements in film, television and advertising, including features in “Mending the Line” (Netflix) and the “Reagan” biopic.
“The Imaginaries bring something truly special to the Lutcher,” said Sanford. “Audiences may recognize their music from beloved Hallmark films and major motion pictures, but seeing Maggie and Shane live is an entirely different experience that is intimate, powerful and unforgettable.
In addition to their Lutcher performance, The Imaginaries will engage with local educators through the Lutcher’s Intersections Teacher Workshop Series. The program bridges the gap between the professional stage and the classroom by empowering educators and students in Southeast Texas and Southwest Louisiana with transformative mentorship and unrivaled professional development opportunities. The workshop will give theater teachers an insider look at how to navigate the music and film industries, build sustainable careers and create meaningful artistic work.
To kick off their Lutcher weekend, The Imaginaries will also perform a free pop-up concert at Free State Cellars (4702 Tejas Parkway, Orange) on Friday, Jan. 30, from 7-7:30 p.m., giving audiences a sneak peek at what to expect at Saturday’s performance.
Springtime brings the second show of the series, The Barefoot Movement, to perform April 18, at 7:30 p.m.
Another husband/wife duo (Noah Wall and Tommy Norris) lead this band integrating bluegrass, blues, folk, rock, country and pop into music that’s delightfully fresh. The show features original songs and reimagined cover tunes (don’t miss their rendition of Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train”) with tight three-part harmonies and hot instrumentals. And yes, they perform barefoot.
Tickets are $38 and may be purchased online at lutcher.org or by calling the box office at (409) 886-5535.
The Lutcher Theater is located at 707 Main Ave. in downtown Orange.