As the air turns crisp over the High Plains and the wheat fields shimmer under autumn's softer sun, Dodge City comes alive in a new way. While the rodeo arenas and cowboy heritage remain an essential part of its character, the cultural calendar takes center stage this fall, offering music, theatre, and entertainment experiences that will make the Dodge City Community College Conquistadors' home turf a hub for more than just sports. From Grammy-winning pop sensations to hard-driving rock legends, soul-stirring musicals, and regional venues with storied histories, there's an abundance of performances to mark on your calendar. Whether you're a local ready to enjoy shows close to home or a traveler drawn to the city's unique blend of Old West charm and modern artistry, this fall promises unforgettable nights under Kansas skies.
New Zealand singer-songwriter Lorde emerged as a defining voice of her generation with her breakout 2013 debut albumÂ
Pure Heroine. Known for her moody electropop sound and poetic lyrics, she topped charts with hits like "Royals" and "Green Light," earning multiple Grammy Awards early in her career. Lorde's style blends minimalist production with deeply introspective storytelling, often exploring youth, fame, and self-discovery. Her tours, including theÂ
Melodrama World Tour andÂ
Solar Power Tour, have sold out venues across the globe. She continues to evolve artistically, cementing her place as one of the most original and influential performers of the last decade.
Formed in 1993 in Vacaville, California, Papa Roach became a mainstay of the nu-metal and alternative rock scenes. Their 2000 albumÂ
Infest propelled them into mainstream success with the anthem "Last Resort," which remains a staple in rock playlists worldwide. Over the years, the band has experimented with punk, electronic, and hip-hop influences, keeping their sound fresh while maintaining their raw energy. They've toured extensively with acts like Shinedown and Five Finger Death Punch, delivering high-energy performances that have become legendary in rock circles. With multiple platinum records and continued radio success, Papa Roach remains a powerhouse in modern rock.
Country music's newest superstar, Lainey Wilson, has taken Nashville by storm with her distinct "bell-bottom country" style — a blend of traditional country, southern rock, and modern flair. Raised in a small Louisiana town, Wilson honed her craft writing songs for others before breaking through with her own albumÂ
Sayin' What I'm Thinkin'. Her hit singles "Things a Man Oughta Know" and "Heart Like a Truck" have won awards from the Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music. Wilson's authenticity and commanding stage presence have made her one of the most sought-after live acts in country music today.
Chicago's Chance the Rapper revolutionized the music industry by finding massive success without signing to a traditional record label. His mixtapeÂ
Coloring Book became the first streaming-only release to win a Grammy, earning him three awards including Best Rap Album. Blending gospel, soul, and hip-hop, Chance's uplifting lyrics and energetic performances have drawn acclaim from fans and critics alike. His tours, including theÂ
Be Encouraged Tour, have sold out arenas across North America. Beyond music, he's an activist and philanthropist, investing heavily in Chicago public schools and community programs.
Bluegrass virtuoso Billy Strings has revitalized the genre with his lightning-fast guitar skills and boundary-pushing compositions. Born William Apostol, he blends traditional bluegrass with psychedelic rock, folk, and jam-band influences. His albumÂ
Home won the Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album in 2021, and his live shows are known for extended improvisational jams that keep audiences enthralled. Strings has sold out venues from Nashville's Ryman Auditorium to Red Rocks Amphitheatre, proving that bluegrass is alive, well, and evolving.
From Disney Channel star to chart-topping pop artist, Sabrina Carpenter has crafted a career defined by versatility and determination. Her recent albums, includingÂ
emails i can't send, showcase her witty songwriting and polished pop sound. Hits like "Nonsense" and "Feather" have propelled her into the pop mainstream, while her high-energy tours demonstrate her dynamic stage presence. Carpenter's fanbase continues to grow internationally, and her festival appearances have cemented her as a rising force in modern pop.
Since their 2009 debutÂ
Sigh No More, Mumford and Sons have led the folk-rock revival with their anthemic choruses, banjo-driven melodies, and emotionally charged lyrics. The British band has won multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year forÂ
Babel. Their live performances are known for their communal energy, with audiences singing every word to hits like "I Will Wait" and "The Cave." They've headlined major festivals worldwide, including Glastonbury and Bonnaroo.
Benson Boone's rise to fame began with viral social media videos showcasing his soulful voice and heartfelt songwriting. His breakout single "Ghost Town" resonated globally, earning platinum certifications and millions of streams. Boone's music blends pop, rock, and singer-songwriter traditions, appealing to a wide audience. His debut tours have already sold out in multiple countries, marking him as one of pop's most promising new voices.
Classic rock giants Foreigner have been delivering arena-ready anthems since 1976. With timeless hits like "I Want to Know What Love Is," "Cold as Ice," and "Juke Box Hero," they've sold over 80 million records worldwide. Their live shows are a celebration of decades of rock history, often featuring sing-along moments that unite audiences across generations. Foreigner has been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and continues to tour extensively.
Canadian singer-songwriter and dancer Tate McRae first gained attention as a finalist onÂ
So You Think You Can Dancebefore transitioning into music. Her single "you broke me first" became a global hit, earning multi-platinum status and streaming dominance. McRae's blend of pop and R&B, combined with her dance background, creates a visually compelling live performance. She has toured with artists like Shawn Mendes and is now headlining her own sold-out shows.
Acclaimed for her powerful voice and poetic songwriting, Neko Case has been a fixture in alternative country and indie rock since the 1990s. Known for albums likeÂ
Middle Cyclone andÂ
Hell-On, she blends folk storytelling with lush arrangements. Case's collaborations with The New Pornographers and other artists have expanded her influence, while her solo tours showcase her as a singular talent in Americana music.
Chris Brown burst onto the R&B scene in 2005 with his debut single "Run It!" topping the Billboard Hot 100. Over nearly two decades, he has built an impressive catalog of chart-topping hits, from "Forever" to "Under the Influence." Known for his smooth vocals and unmatched dance skills, Brown has won Grammy, Billboard, and American Music Awards. His tours are high-energy spectacles combining choreography, elaborate staging, and fan interaction.
Lin-Manuel Miranda'sÂ
Hamilton revolutionized Broadway with its blend of hip-hop, R&B, and traditional show tunes. Premiering in 2015, the musical tells the story of Alexander Hamilton and the founding fathers in a fresh, contemporary way.Â
Hamilton has won 11 Tony Awards, a Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album. Touring productions have sold out across the United States, making it one of the most in-demand theatrical events of the century.
Based on the beloved 1985 film,Â
Back to the Future - The Musical brings Marty McFly's time-traveling adventures to the stage with dazzling special effects and a mix of original songs and familiar hits. Since its West End debut in 2021, the show has earned Olivier Awards and rave reviews for its inventive staging. Its Broadway run has drawn large crowds, and touring productions continue to attract fans eager to relive the magic.
Stephen Schwartz'sÂ
Wicked reimagines the Land of Oz, telling the untold story of the witches before Dorothy arrived. Since its 2003 debut, it has become one of Broadway's longest-running hits, winning three Tony Awards and a Grammy. Iconic songs like "Defying Gravity" and "Popular" have become part of musical theatre history. With lavish sets, stunning costumes, and an empowering story,Â
Wicked continues to sell out performances worldwide.
Venues Bringing the Sound to Southwest Kansas
United Wireless Arena – Dodge City, KS
Opened in 2011, the United Wireless Arena is the premier indoor venue in Dodge City, with a seating capacity of approximately 4,000. It has hosted concerts by country stars, classic rock icons, and major sporting events. Its modern design and versatile staging make it a go-to destination for touring acts passing through southwest Kansas.
The Cotillion – Wichita, KS
A Wichita landmark since 1960, The Cotillion is a domed concert hall with a 2,000-seat capacity. Over the decades, it has welcomed legends like B.B. King, Bob Dylan, and Garth Brooks. Its intimate atmosphere allows fans to get up close to the performers, creating unforgettable live music experiences.
INTRUST Bank Arena – Wichita, KS
This state-of-the-art facility opened in 2010 and seats over 15,000 for concerts. INTRUST Bank Arena has hosted top acts from Elton John to Taylor Swift and serves as a central hub for major entertainment events in Kansas. Its downtown location and cutting-edge acoustics make it a favorite for both fans and artists.
Orpheum Theatre – Wichita, KS
Built in 1922, the Orpheum Theatre is a beautifully restored historic venue with a seating capacity of around 1,200. It has a storied history as part of the vaudeville circuit and now hosts concerts, plays, and film screenings. The Orpheum's classic architecture and intimate setting create a unique and memorable performance space.
Special Offer for Conquistador Fans
This fall, TicketSmarter invites Dodge City Community College Conquistadors fans to enjoy their favorite concerts, musicals, and live events with exclusive savings. Use promo codeÂ
CONQUISTADORS5Â at checkout to receive a discount on your next ticket purchase. Whether you're headed to a chart-topping pop show, a powerfulÂ
