Arts   

When the world stops, a small town opens its doors. Tony-winning “Come From Away” is the inspiring true story of 7,000 strangers from around the globe unexpectedly stranded in Gander, Newfoundland in the aftermath of September 11, 2001, proving community can become home when humanity leads the way. Director Brandon Box-Higdem will meet with OLLI attendees before the show to share the creative process and inspiration behind the OCP production.

Tour the exhibition “Elsewhere / The Prairie Was Ours” with Elizabeth Burden, an artist who engages in artistic archivy, blending multidisciplinary studio work with social practice to reflect on the past/ present/future. Born and raised in Lincoln, Burden is the great-granddaughter of the first Black homesteaders in Nebraska, Henry and Mary Burden. After the tour, Burden will lead a story-sharing activity; participants are encouraged to bring an old family photo to share.

LSO kicks off its centennial season under the baton of Music Director Edward Polochick with “Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man” and Tyler White’s “A Fivescore Festival: 100 Measure for 100 Years.” To amplify the celebration, LSO is joined for both fanfares by The Pride of All Nebraska: The Cornhusker Marching Band. LSO then pays homage to the program of its very first concert in March of 1927 with Mozart’s “Overture to Le nozze di Figaro” and Liszt’s “Les Préludes.” The celebration culminates with 7-time GRAMMY Award-winning piano legend Emanuel Ax, who joins the orchestra to perform Mozart’s “Piano Concerto No. 22.”

Learn how quiltmakers responded to the rapidly changing political, social, and technological landscape during the period from 1870 to 1970. Discover how they embraced new developments: abundant factory-produced fabrics, more affordable sewing machines, and widely available commercial kits and patterns. Following the presentation, enjoy a gallery tour through the exhibition “American Creativity: 1870s to 1970s,” which showcases the immense creative output of American quiltmakers during a time of equally immense change.

Learn how quiltmakers responded to the rapidly changing political, social, and technological landscape during the period from 1870 to 1970. Discover how they embraced new developments: abundant factory-produced fabrics, more affordable sewing machines, and widely available commercial kits and patterns. Following the presentation, enjoy a gallery tour through the exhibition “American Creativity: 1870s to 1970s,” which showcases the immense creative output of American quiltmakers during a time of equally immense change.

Join a lively conversation with a composer, conductor, and director as they reveal how music, story, staging, and voice come together to create the magic of opera. Gain insider insight into the collaboration and creativity behind one of the world’s most powerful and enduring art forms.

Nonrepresentational art remains a groundbreaking departure from traditional aesthetics. By using a visual language of shape, color, and line rather than realistic depictions, abstraction explores "art for art’s sake," geometric beauty, and intense human emotion—from deep anguish to pure joy. The exhibition Abstraction: Lights, Paint, Action showcases these enigmatic works, specifically highlighting diverse nonrepresentational pieces selected from the prestigious Karen and Robert Duncan and the Kathryn and Marc LeBaron collections.

Join OLLI on an autumn tour of arts and culture in Nebraska’s own Alps! We’ll visit Schuyler’s historic Oak Ballroom to learn about this WPA gem, then view the St. John’s Bible, a hand illuminated masterpiece housed at the St. Benedictine Center. Next, we will enjoy a traditional Czech lunch of roast pork, dumplings, sauerkraut and kolaches at Abie’s Place in Abie. Then we’ll head to the new quarters of the Bone Creek Museum of Agrarian Art in David City. Finally, we’ll stop at Junto Wine near Seward to enjoy the beautiful views and local wine.

“The Wolves” by Sarah DeLappe, a Pulitzer Prize finalist, follows nine teenage girls as they warm up for their weekly soccer games. Over the course of a season, their conversations reveal the complexity of adolescence and what it means to grow up. Director Katherine McGerr and her production team will discuss their concepts and show examples of their illustrations and models, followed by a sneak-peek at the set, lighting, costumes and sound.

This course is back by popular demand. Discover how Nebraska Public Media—home to PBS and NPR in the state—brings trusted storytelling, educational resources, and cultural programming to audiences across Nebraska. This session features an inside look at television and radio production, a tour of the facility and mobile production truck, and a special look into the archives, showcasing how public media continues to innovate and serve communities statewide.

Do you have envelopes full of negatives or slides? What about old photos stored in shoeboxes under your bed? Learn how to preserve these in a more organized form. Bring some of these to class and explore the process of scanning and saving those prints digitally so they will be memories forever. Bring no more than four or five prints, negatives, or slides.

Gather at Sheldon Museum of Art to experience and learn about the exhibition “Grace Hartigan: The Gift of Attention,” which explores the creative exchange between Grace Hartigan and the bold New York poets who inspired her. Focusing on a distinguished visual artist working during the mid-twentieth century, this exhibition offers a fresh perspective on a pioneering American artist.

Rome: now. The landscape of leadership is shifting like sand. The people are starving and rioting in the streets. Who can keep the peace when the status quo is collapsing? Coriolanus – a celebrated war hero is returning to the city in triumph. When he refuses to “play the game” and appeal to the “lower” classes he disdains to secure their vote for office, he is branded a traitor and banished from the city. Now, he’s returning with vengeance. Coriolanus – anger is my meat. The show concludes with a post-performance question and answer period for OLLI attendees.

Defining folk music is a challenge. From its origins, folk music has been the music of the working class, community-focused and with little commercial success until the 1950s. A folk song from the 13th century became the basis for two different million sellers. We’ll look at songs from the 1930s through the 1970s, songs about war, work, civil rights and more – the artists and songs that helped define generations – in a fun and unique way.

Defining folk music is a challenge. From its origins, folk music has been the music of the working class, community-focused and with little commercial success until the 1950s. A folk song from the 13th century became the basis for two different million sellers. We’ll look at songs from the 1930s through the 1970s, songs about war, work, civil rights and more – the artists and songs that helped define generations – in a fun and unique way.

Few nations on Earth have a more colorful history than Japan. Settled by migrants from the Asian mainland back in the mists of pre-history, Japan has seen the rise and fall of Emperors, rule by Samurai warriors, isolation from the outside world, expansion over most of Asia, defeat and rebirth. Explore how the Japanese love of nature developed in the art form of Ikebana. Each class will demonstrate Ikebana, following the development of the art form, as it is connected to the fabric of Japanese culture and history.

Few nations on Earth have a more colorful history than Japan. Settled by migrants from the Asian mainland back in the mists of pre-history, Japan has seen the rise and fall of Emperors, rule by Samurai warriors, isolation from the outside world, expansion over most of Asia, defeat and rebirth. Explore how the Japanese love of nature developed in the art form of Ikebana. Each class will demonstrate Ikebana, following the development of the art form, as it is connected to the fabric of Japanese culture and history.

The ukulele is an easy instrument to learn. Have fun singing, strumming, and learning with fellow OLLI members. Learning a new instrument keeps the brain sharp, and fingering the ukulele helps arthritic hands. You don’t have to know how to read music to take this class. Any standard "C tuning" ukulele may be used. Bring your own ukulele and music stand; and, members may check out a beginner ukulele from any public library in advance.

Inspired by a visit to the International Quilt Museum and the diversity and wide array of quilt styles throughout history, this year’s theme of the 2026 Sunken Gardens is “A Patchwork Garden,” drawing on both traditional and modern quilt-making throughout the 250 years of American history. Please plan accordingly for the weather and your comfort. A good deal of walking is required.

Inspired by a visit to the International Quilt Museum and the diversity and wide array of quilt styles throughout history, this year’s theme of the 2026 Sunken Gardens is “A Patchwork Garden,” drawing on both traditional and modern quilt-making throughout the 250 years of American history. Please plan accordingly for the weather and your comfort. A good deal of walking is required.

Register for the performance in the company of fellow OLLI members in a reserved section of the theatre or attend the production at a different time that works with your schedule by purchasing a ticket on your own. The same OLLI discount on ticket prices applies either way you attend.

Learn about Samuel Bak's life followed by a tour of the Fall exhibition, Past, Present, Futures at the Samuel Bak Museum: The Learning Center. During the tour, we will engage in a slow-looking exercise and in-gallery discussions to explore how artists have used the portraiture to reflect and comment on historical and contemporary events, while envision alternative futures.

Enjoy a guided tour through “American Patriotism” and “American Innovations, 1770-1870” led by the curator. Learn how American women expressed patriotic sentiments in their quilts. See the range of symbols they used to convey messages revealing their patriotic feelings and political leanings, and discover the global trade and technological innovations that influenced quiltmaking during the late 18th and 19th centuries.

Build photography skills using your mobile devices – smart phones and tablets. Most of the content will focus on Apple device Technology but, it will also cover Android features, multiple apps and photographic principles common to all cell phone cameras. There will also be limited discussion about post processing of photographs using the phone app Snapseed. Download Snapseed from your app store to enable some practice processing photos on your device during class.

The following video programs are previously recorded OLLI courses. Learn at your own pace, on your own time and at your convenience. Over 40 hours of programming are available for a single cost of $30. You will receive a link in your registration confirmation email to access all recordings. The link will be active from the first day of the term until one week before the next term starts.

All programming originates from OLLI at UNL.

 

Women Who Lived for Danger – Lynn Roper (4 sessions)

Fearless, smart, creative and decisive women. From 1940, the British SOE trained 39 women to handle guns and explosives, work undercover, endure interrogation and use complex codes as they were dropped into Nazi-occupied France to work as secret agents. America’s intelligence agency, the OSS, began in 1942, bolstered this effort and evolved in 1947 to the CIA where trailblazing, daring women helped the U.S. face the new, growing Soviet threat. These courageous agents of change also fought for equal pay and opportunities for women.

World War II in the Pacific – Roger Lempke (6 sessions)

The U.S.A. fought World War II in two fronts that were quite different on opposite sides of the world. After Pearl Harbor the war in the Pacific had aircraft carriers engaging in combat for the first time and “island hopping” become a major tactic never experienced in warfare. Explore the significant characteristics of the war in the Pacific including pre-war relations, military leadership, tactics, and logistics in the vast ocean region.

Functional Strength and Balance – Diane Hopkins (4 sessions)

Enhance overall physical fitness and improve the ability to perform daily activities with confidence. Focusing on muscular strength, flexibility, mobility and balance, engage in exercises tailored to support functional movement and reduce the risk of injury. Using just a chair, through guided workouts and movement strategies, build confidence in your physical abilities, fostering greater independence and overall well-being.

 

The Gospel of Mary Magdalene – Liz Kocher (3 sessions)

Long-lost until discovery in the late 19th century, the gospel account of Mary Magdalene tells the story of discipleship, conflict, and the proclamation from a voice too often overlooked. Explore the world within and behind the text of Mary Magdalene’s gospel and get a glimpse into the complex world of artifact discovery and scripture interpretation.

Classic Car Restoration – Mike Zimmerman (1 session)

You’ve always wanted to restore that car you drove as a teenager but were afraid to take the first step. Discover the things to consider making the project manageable. Designed for both beginners and veterans, learn proper tools, workspace, costs and safe preservation methods along with bodywork techniques, paint preparation, engine care, and interior refurbishment to bring a vintage car back to life while maintaining authenticity.

First Century Son(s) of God – Michael Ryan (1 session)

The Son of God? What can it mean? Although Christians understand Jesus is the Son of God, many are not aware of the title’s meanings in the first century nor that there were others to whom the term applied. Exploring the implications of other "sons of god" challenges and illuminates our understanding of the Gospels today. Deepen your understanding of the gospels through an historical critical approach.

 

Lincoln Saltdogs Baseball: Life Behind the Scenes – Shane & Morgan Tritz (1 session)

Go behind the scenes with Saltdogs General Manager Shane Tritz and his daughter, Morgan, as they share an inside look at life in Minor League Baseball. Hear firsthand stories about the highs and challenges of managing a team, family life around the ballpark, and what it’s really like to be part of the Saltdogs organization. A fun, personal glimpse into the world of professional minor league baseball.

Gait Speed: The 6th Vital Sign – Casey Bogenrief (1 session)

Discover why gait speed is more than just a way of measuring how fast you walk. This simple, accessible indicator reflects the health and function of multiple body systems and is strongly linked to overall vitality and survival. Learn how slowing down can signal underlying changes and how reduced mobility can create a cycle of inactivity and deconditioning that impacts long-term health. Participate in a gait-speed assessment and learn what you can do to improve this vital sign.

 

Restoring and Managing Resilient Prairies – Chris Helzer (1 session)

Prairies are beautiful, diverse and fascinating. View photos and hear stories about Nebraska prairies and learn about how land stewards keep them vibrant and healthy. Explore seed harvest, prescribed fire, grazing, mowing, invasive species management, and the art and science of blending those in surprisingly sophisticated ways. Discover how bees, badgers, cows, and people can all interact and coexist.

Yes, Your Vote Matters – Sandra Washington, Eric Gerrard, Laurel Van Ham (1 session)

Learn the most effective and efficient ways to express your opinions at the local, state and federal levels. We’ll discuss contacting elected and appointed officials, testifying at public hearings, social media, letters to the editor and more. We’ll focus on individual actions while recognizing the power of collective action. Whether you’re an introvert, extrovert or in-between, and whether you have a few minutes or plenty of time, your civic engagement can make a difference!

Join us for a visit to St. Cecilia Catholic Cathedral located in the Gold Coast District of Omaha. Learn about the history, architectural style, and see some of the artwork in the Cathedral’s collection. After the tour, we will be able to go to the Cultural Center and explore the exhibits, see the museum, and visit the gift shop.

“Cosi fan tutte” (literally "Thus do they all" or "Women are like that") is a witty Italian comic opera composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart with a libretto by Lorenzo Da Ponte. First premiered in Vienna in 1790, this satirical romantic comedy revolves around a bet to test the fidelity of two engaged sisters. We'll listen to highlights, discuss the opera's history, structure, musical elements, and explore how it fits into the broader world of opera.

This course has been expanded from 3 to 6 weeks, providing more time to focus exclusively on Apple products (Macs, iPhones/iPads, iWatch, and AirPods) and the latest software updates and refinements.  Designed for users who are already comfortable with their devices, explore advanced features and recent developments. You don't need to own every Apple device, but a  solid understanding of the basics is expected so we can dive right in without covering beginner-level content.