Entertainment is Alive in Van Wert

By Quincy Thompson

Van Wert, OH [Aug 10, 2026] – The stage may be quiet for a few weeks, but an exciting season of live entertainment is just around the corner at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center. From talented rescue dogs and award-winning musicians to comedy, illusions and classic rock favorites, the lineup offers something for nearly everyone.

Next month begins with plenty of four-legged fun when Puppy Pals Live takes the stage on Sunday, September 13, at 2 p.m. Presented by the Porter & Squash Philanthropic Fund and supported by First Financial Bank, this action-packed comedic stunt dog show features adopted and rescued dogs performing spectacular tricks and breathtaking feats.

As seen on America’s Got Talent, Puppy Pals Live combines impressive canine abilities with plenty of laugh-out-loud comedy. Audiences will see the dogs jump, balance and tackle a variety of entertaining challenges—all while showing everyone who is really in charge. With tickets starting at $20, it is an affordable opportunity for families to experience live entertainment together. Through the Community Impact Program and support from the First Financial Foundation, mission-driven ticketing is also helping make the performance accessible to more members of the community. 

Jarin Hart, Executive Director of Van Wert LIVE

“Puppy Pals is such a fun way to begin our fall season because it brings families together for an afternoon filled with laughter and amazement. From there, the season continues with an incredible variety of entertainment. Whether you enjoy country music, comedy, magic, Christian music or classic rock, there is a place for you at the Niswonger this fall.”

Just six days after Puppy Pals, two-time GRAMMY Award winner and 22-time GMA Dove Award winner Jason Crabb will perform on Saturday, September 19, at 7:30 p.m. Presented by Strategence Capital, Crabb’s music crosses the boundaries of Southern Gospel, country, pop and Christian music, creating an evening that promises powerful vocals, uplifting songs and inspiring stories.

Comedy takes center stage on Saturday, October 10, at 7:30 p.m. with The Best of The Second City. Presented by Danfoss, the legendary comedy company will bring its signature blend of sketch comedy and improvisation to Van Wert. The Second City has helped launch the careers of some of comedy’s biggest names, and this performance will showcase the quick wit and creativity that have made it an entertainment institution.

The following weekend brings a Halloween-season spectacular for the entire family. Haunted Illusions, starring master illusionist David Caserta, comes to the Niswonger on Saturday, October 17, at 7 p.m. Presented by Cooper Farms, the show combines mind-blowing illusions, comedy and audience participation as people appear, disappear and even levitate before the audience’s eyes.

Classic-rock fans can experience the music of one of the world’s most beloved bands when Rumours of Fleetwood Mac performs on Saturday, October 24, at 7:30 p.m. Presented by Roger and Kay Okuley, the internationally acclaimed tribute show recreates the sound, spirit and energy of Fleetwood Mac at its very best.

Then, country music takes over the Niswonger on Thursday, November 5, at 8 p.m. when GRAMMY, ACM and CMA Award winner and Grand Ole Opry member Ashley McBryde arrives in Van Wert. Presented by First Bank of Berne and supported by Bruce and Julie Kennedy, the concert will also feature acclaimed country artist Tami Neilson as the opening act. McBryde is known for her fearless songwriting, powerhouse vocals and electrifying combination of country and rock and roll.

The season continues on Sunday, November 15, with America’s Got Talent winner Darci Lynne & Friends, followed by a festive December lineup featuring A Christmas Carol, The Wizards of Winter and David Phelps’ One Wintry Night Tour.

With puppies, country stars, comedy, magic, rock and holiday favorites all on the calendar, now is the perfect time to begin planning a fall filled with live entertainment. Tickets are on sale now through Van Wert LIVE. 

To see what is coming up at the Niswonger, head to vanwertlive.com. Tickets are available through the Niswonger Box Office, open Tuesday through Friday from 10 AM to 3 PM, by calling 419-238-6722.