08/01/2026
Last night we close the curtain on the 18th Annual Summer Music Series, and if I’m being honest, this one feels a little emotional.
Eighteen years ago, we had a vision. We wanted to create something that would bring people to downtown Ste. Genevieve, fill the historic Orris Theatre with music and laughter, and give our community something to look forward to every summer. We never imagined just how much this series would grow or how many memories would be made within those walls.
For 18 years, you’ve laughed, danced, sang along, reunited with old friends, made new ones, and supported something that has become a true community tradition. That’s something every one of us should be proud of.
Our series did take a hit this year, with three bands cancelling on us. Those circumstances were not on our end and we just had to role with the punches. It happens, and as a series who books 12-18 months out it’s a risk we take. We hope this year we did not let you down, we gave it our all and feel like the season over all was successful.
To every person who has ever purchased a ticket… thank you. You have believed in this series, and in our Chamber, and in our mission to give back to this community. Every ticket purchased has helped us continue creating programs, events, and opportunities that benefit Ste. Genevieve.
To our sponsors… thank you for believing in us year after year. Your generosity isn’t just about supporting a concert. It’s about investing in a community, in local entertainment, and in experiences that bring people together. We are forever grateful for your continued partnership.
People often see the band, the lights, and the applause, but they don’t always see what happens behind the scenes. Events like these don’t simply happen. They are built through countless hours of planning, an incredible team, dependable sponsors, amazing volunteers, talented musicians, and partnerships that have been cultivated over many years. It truly takes a village, and I have been blessed to work alongside some of the very best.
To my team, Dick and the Orris family, Kenny, Ryan and Rich behind the lights and sound, our volunteers, every performer who has stepped onto that stage, and everyone who has ever played a role in this series… thank you. Your dedication is the reason this tradition continues.
One thing I hope we never lose is the understanding that local entertainment matters. Before we criticize, let’s encourage. Before we complain, let’s appreciate. Choose kindness. Support the organizations willing to take the risk. Buy the ticket. Fill the seats. Because when we support local events, we’re investing in the future of our own community.
I’ve always believed in one simple philosophy: Do it because you love it. That quote is courtesy of our dear friend Duane Donze whom we miss every day.
That’s exactly why we’ve continued this series for 18 years.
As one season ends, another chapter begins. There will be some exciting changes coming next year, and I truly can’t wait to share them with all of you. So stay tuned…Because the Ste. Genevieve Chamber isn’t going anywhere. And neither is this music series. Thank you all for another amazing Summer!
I will be posting all sponsors in a separate post as they deserve their own post!
The Orris
