The start of a new season brings with it the magic of live performance—the thrill of music, the joy of storytelling, and the sense of community that comes from gathering together. This year, we also want to take a moment to reflect on what it means to be an audience member. Live theater is a partnership between those on stage and those in the seats. The experience is richer, warmer, and more meaningful when we all share the same spirit of respect and care.

Celebrate our board member Lynette Owens, who is bringing her talents to the stage this September with Lyrical Opera Theatre’s production of Falstaff.

Without elaborate set changes or mechanical effects, the spotlight fell squarely on the cast—and they delivered. The performers leaned into the humor with razor-sharp comedic timing, playful sarcasm, and a knack for breaking the “fourth wall” to draw the audience into their antics. The result was a performance that felt fresh, alive, and irresistibly funny.

When a boy climbs inside a magical peach and sets off on an adventure across the ocean with a crew of giant talking bugs… you know you’re in for something wild. But nothing could quite prepare audiences for the hilarious, off-the-wall joy that James and the Giant Peach brought to the stage at Midvale Performing Arts Center in April.

Just one year ago, Trevor McFarland hadn’t conducted a piece of music longer than six minutes. He had never rehearsed a full orchestra alone—without a mentor watching from behind the podium. But in early 2024, everything changed when Trevor was invited to step in as interim conductor of West Jordan Symphony. Though the role was daunting, he accepted the opportunity—and quickly realized it would become one of the most formative decisions of his life.

Veterans Memorial Park came alive on Saturday, April 26, with sunshine, music, and an outpouring of creativity as hundreds gathered to celebrate Art in the Park 2025. Hosted by the Cultural Arts Society of West Jordan (CASWJ), this year’s event was our most vibrant yet — a joyful day where local artistry met community connection in the heart of spring.