Legends in Concert presents Legends of Country - February 21, 2026 by Gallo Center for the Arts

ABOUT DIGITAL PROGRAMS

The Gallo Center has adopted the use of digital programs meant to be viewed on cell phones or other computer devices. This change has important public health, environmental and economic benefits: reducing close contacts between patrons and ushers, cutting our use of paper, and eliminating substantial printing costs. View the program only before shows begin or during intermissions. Please be considerate of other patrons and artists on stage by not viewing it during performances. Patrons who do not observe this courtesy and create distractions may be asked to leave. Thank you!

WHY YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS

The Gallo Center for the Arts is a non-profit performing arts center with a deep commitment to enriching the people and communities of California’s vast San Joaquin Valley. From the scintillating performances of its wonderful resident companies, to the great variety of world-class entertainment presented by the Center each season, to robust arts education programs for the region’s youth, this is where the magic happens.

From the beginning, the Center’s mission has been clearly defined: to provide an inspirational civic gathering place where regional, national, and international cultural activities illuminate, educate, and entertain. Since revenue from ticket sales and facility rentals only covers a portion of the costs associated with fulfilling this mission, the Center is dependent on the generous annual financial support from donors and program sponsors within our community.

LEARN MORE AT GALLOARTS.ORG/SUPPORTUS.

ABOUT THE CENTER

HOW TO BUY TICKETS

In Person: 1000 I Street, downtown Modesto

Online: 24/7/365 at GalloArts.org

By Phone: (209) 338-2100

TICKET OFFICE HOURS

Monday – Friday: 10 am – 6 pm, Saturday: Noon – 6 pm Closed Sundays

Ticket Office opens two hours prior to all events

EMAIL LIST

GENERAL INFORMATION

The mission of the Gallo Center for the Arts is to enrich the quality of life in the San Joaquin Valley by providing an inspirational civic gathering place where regional, national and international cultural activities illuminate, educate and entertain. The Gallo Center for the Arts celebrates the diversity of the San Joaquin Valley by offering an array of affordable cultural opportunities designed to appeal, and be accessible, to all.

The Center opened in September, 2007 and consists of the 440-seat Foster Family Theater, the 1,248-seat Mary Stuart Rogers Theater, the Marie Damrell Gallo Grand Lobby and a plaza serving both theaters, and the Modesto Rotary Music Garden.

As a regional non-profit performing arts center, the Gallo Center for the Arts presents internationally recognized touring artists in all disciplines, and also is home to four resident companies: Central West Ballet, Modesto Performing Arts, Modesto Symphony Orchestra and Opera Modesto. The Gallo Center for the Arts is a unique public/private partnership. Construction was funded jointly by the County of Stanislaus, which owns the facility, and contributions from more than 4,000 individuals and businesses given to a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization which today operates the Center.

PATRON EVENT INFORMATION

• Emergency exits are indicated by green exit signs located above each exit. For your safety, please check for the location of the exit nearest to your seat.

• The Gallo Center for the Arts is accessible to disabled patrons. Wheelchair seating is available in both theaters. Portable wireless listening devices are available at the Coat Check room at no charge. Please inform the Ticket Office of any special needs when ordering tickets.

• Food and beverages are not allowed in the theaters. (with the exception of bottled water and beverages served in theater cups.)

• Smoking is prohibited inside the building and within 20 feet of all entrances.

• Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of the Gallo Center for the Arts’ house managers.

• The use of recording equipment and the taking of photographs in Gallo Center for the Arts theaters is strictly forbidden. The Gallo Center for the Arts reserves the right to confiscate any such equipment and/or require offending customers to exit the premises.

• As a courtesy to artists and to your fellow patrons,

please turn off or silence any mobile device on your person. No texting, please!

• Restrooms are located on all three levels of the Center.

• Lost items will be held in the Coat Check room on the main level until the end of the performance. Thereafter, please contact Ticket Office at (209) 338-2100.

• All patrons MUST have a ticket to enter a performance regardless of age.

• Out of courtesy to other patrons, the Gallo Center for the Arts requests that no infants or toddlers attend any performance.

Groups qualify for discounts up to 15% on ticket prices to the many exciting performances offered by the Gallo Center for the Arts and its resident companies.

Secure your group reservation today for just 10% down of your total price!

EMPLOYEE PARTIES/REWARDS CHURCH OUTINGS CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS

BUS TOURS

CORPORATE ENTERTAINMENT

SENIOR CENTER OUTINGS

HOLIDAY, ANNIVERSARY & BIRTHDAY PARTIES

…AND MORE!

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL!

Our group sales manager, Jesica Sanchez, is at your service. Call her at (209) 338-5064, or send an email to jsanchez@galloarts.org.

Legends in Concert® Presents Legends of Country® – an electrifying tribute to the biggest names in country music! Experience world-class tribute artists embodying legendary stars like Trisha Yearwood, Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks, Kenny Rogers and Reba McEntire. Featuring stunning vocals, iconic hits, and unforgettable performances, this live show brings the heart and soul of country music to the stage. Don’t miss the chance to see your favorite country legends come to life in this must-see production!

Corrie Sachs as Reba McEntire

A Tribute to the Queen of Country –Legends in Concert

Corrie Sachs brings the unmistakable voice, charisma, and down-home charm of Reba McEntire to life in Legends in Concert. With nearly three decades of portraying the Queen of Country, Corrie delivers a heartfelt and powerful tribute that continues to captivate audiences nationwide.

A Versatile and Accomplished Entertainer

Corrie’s celebrated career spans the worlds of stage, television, and radio. A Las Vegas native, she has headlined in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and on national tours, earning acclaim for her vibrant stage presence and vocal excellence. She has also entertained audiences around the world through USO tours, performing for American troops alongside legendary entertainers such as Bob Hope, Bob Newhart, Debbie Reynolds, and Allen & Rossi.

Recognized for her vocal talent and dedication, Corrie has been named “Las Vegas Singer of the Year” multiple times—in 2004, 2006, and 2010.

The Ultimate Reba Tribute

Corrie Sachs has been portraying Reba McEntire for over 28 years, earning her the reputation as one of the most authentic Reba tribute artists in the industry. Her performance is more than just a tribute—it’s a heartfelt homage to one of country music’s greatest icons. In fact, Corrie was even offered the opportunity to tour with Reba McEntire herself, a testament to the precision and respect she brings to her portrayal.

In 2001, Corrie was honored with the “Tribute Artist of the Year” award from the Las Vegas Review-Journal, cementing her status as one of the premier tribute performers in the country.

A Voice on the Airwaves

In addition to her live performances, Corrie cohosts the Dennis Bono Show, a highly syndicated live radio variety program broadcast from the South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Now in its 20th year, the show draws music fans from around the world and showcases Corrie’s wit, warmth, and vocal range in a fresh format every week.

See the Legend Live

Whether you’re a lifelong Reba fan or new to her music, Corrie Sachs as Reba McEntire delivers a stunningly authentic performance that captures the soul of country music. Her passion, talent, and dedication shine through in every note,

making her a must-see in the Legends in Concert lineup.

Dave Karl: Celebrated Tribute Artist and Kenny Rogers Impersonator

Early Life and Musical Roots in Illinois

Born in Illinois in 1953, Dave Karl was the fourth of five children in a working-class family. He grew up in the historic town of Wood Dale, where his father worked in construction and his mother stayed home to care for the family. From a young age, Dave showed a natural flair for entertainment. He began by doing cartoon character voice impressions for friends and family, unknowingly laying the foundation for a future career in impersonation and tribute performance.

Inspired by the Voice Behind the Cartoons

Dave found a mentor in Mel Blanc, the legendary voice of many Warner Bros.® cartoon characters. Inspired by Blanc’s vocal talents, Dave picked up the guitar at age eight and began exploring music and singing, mimicking the styles of rock ‘n’ roll legends such as Elvis Presley and The Beatles. He spent his early years writing songs, collaborating with fellow musicians, and recording 45 rpm records—all while striving to break into the music industry.

Shifting Gears to Country Music

At age 18, Dave’s musical path shifted toward Country Music, and he began impersonating country legends like Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, Conway Twitty, and Kenny Rogers. He even

ventured into impersonating notable voices such as Walter Brennan, who released a hit song in 1962.

By the mid-1970s, Dave had expanded his musical repertoire, teaching himself both the bass guitar and piano. This versatility paved the way for greater opportunities on stage and in the studio.

Performing with “Heartland” and Touring with Country Greats

From 1986 to 1993, Dave was a member of the popular Chicago-based country band “Heartland.” In this group, he played keyboard and guitar, opening for major artists like Marie Osmond, Lee Greenwood, and Ronnie Milsap, among others. After Heartland disbanded in 1993, Dave transitioned into a solo act, continuing to perform and impersonate in local clubs and venues across the region.

A Touch of Kenny: Tribute to Kenny Rogers

In early 2008, Dave launched his signature tribute act: “A Touch of Kenny.” Known for his uncanny vocal likeness to Kenny Rogers, even in casual conversation, Dave’s impersonation is remarkably authentic. His natural speaking voice and singing style allow him to embody the country music legend with ease and precision.

On the Big Screen: Portraying Kenny Rogers in Film

In January 2010, Dave relocated to Arizona, where new opportunities awaited. Just two

months later, in March 2010, he was cast by the motion picture company Movie Works to portray Kenny Rogers in the film “Queens of Country.” Although the movie has yet to be released, the role added a new dimension to Dave’s career and cemented his status as a respected Kenny Rogers tribute artist.

Karen Hester as Dolly Parton: A Tribute Star with True Country Soul

Step into the spotlight with Karen Hester as Dolly Parton, one of the most dazzling tribute artists to grace the stage at Legends in Concert. Known for her powerhouse vocals, sparkling costumes, and unmistakable Southern charm, Karen has been winning over audiences nationwide with her stunning portrayal of the legendary Dolly Parton.

Hailing from a deeply musical family, Karen’s roots in performance began early. Whether it was singing at family reunions, harmonizing in gospel quartets and trios, or joining local theater productions, the stage has always been part of her identity. Influenced by powerhouse female artists like Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, Martina McBride, and of course, Dolly Parton, Karen developed a style that is both versatile and emotionally compelling.

Karen’s professional resume reads like a country music success story. She has starred in regional and national commercials, acted in the Murder Mystery Dinner Theater at the House of Blues, and lit up the stage in “The Dean Martin Show”

at the Palace Theatre. She has also taken on roles in the off-Broadway hit The Marvelous Wonderettes and served as an understudy in Golf: The Musical. As a live performer, she’s opened for country greats such as Trace Adkins and Ricky Van Shelton.

With every performance, Karen transforms into Dolly — complete with impeccable vocals, flawless wigs, and iconic costumes. Her portrayal isn’t just an impression; it’s a heartfelt homage to the woman known as the Queen of Country Music.

Shawn Gerhard: The Ultimate Garth Brooks Tribute Artist

When it comes to authentic country music tributes, few performers can match the energy, charisma, and vocal power of Shawn Gerhard as Garth Brooks. With decades of experience and a passion that runs deep, Shawn has earned a national reputation as one of the top Garth Brooks tribute artists in the country.

Shawn’s journey began in the early 1990s — a time when country music was undergoing a massive transformation thanks to the rise of superstar Garth Brooks. Inspired by Garth’s unique blend of rock-infused country and highenergy stage presence, Shawn honed his craft, performing across the United States from the East Coast to the West Coast.

Throughout his career, Shawn has opened for some of country music’s biggest legends,

including Alan Jackson, Brooks & Dunn, Tim McGraw, and many more. His dedication to the genre and his uncanny ability to channel Garth Brooks has led to the creation of his own touring production: The Ultimate Garth Brooks Tribute. What sets Shawn apart? Authenticity. His performances aren’t just concerts — they’re immersive experiences. During Garth Brooks’ retirement, even his longtime keyboardist Dave Gant joined Shawn on stage, bringing an added layer of realism and credibility to the tribute.

Are you at risk for heart disease?

At Central Valley Doctors Health System, you can count on us for comprehensive heart care. We offer a full range of services, including cardiology, diagnostic testing and minimally invasive surgery options, plus experience performing over 22,000 open-heart surgeries.

Advanced heart care in the Central Valley. Take our

CENTER CIRCLES

*Charter

Gallo Center

for the a r t s

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Ginger Johnson, Chair of the Board

Marie D. Gallo, President Emerita† June Rogers, Director Emerita

Christina Gomez, Immediate Past Chair

Mel Bradley, Chair Elect

Sarah Grover

Juan Sánchez Muñoz, Ph.D. Jeff

Todd Aaronson

Angelica Anguiano

Rebeca Baeza

Victor Barraza

John C. Bellizzi

Jennifer Coehlo

Stacey Filippi

Robert Fores

Lou Friedman

Julian Gallo

Diane

Stephanie

Ann M. Veneman

Geoff Wong

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Mani Grewal Emma Grover

Irene Angelo†

Lilly Banisadre

Carl Boyett†

Joan Cardoza

Sheila Carroll

Suzanne Casazza

Paul Draper

Ron Emerzian

Ann Endsley

Kenni Friedman

Jaime Jimenez

Brian Kline

Kevin Luttenegger

Johann Ramirez

Catherine Rhee

Rosalee Rush

Robert Soria

John Schneider

Kate Trompetter

Philip Trompetter, Ph.D. Aaron Valencia

Colleen F. Van Egmond

Julie Vander Wall

Sue Zwahlen

FOUNDING TRUSTEES

Kate

Barry Highiet†

Jeanne

M.D.

Tony Mistlin†

M.D.

Schrimp

Fred A. Silva

Ray Simon

Delmar R. Tonge, M.D.†

Tom Van Groningen, Ph.D.

Doug Vilas

Carol Whiteside†

Jeremiah Williams

Alice Yip

Memoriam