Dear Audience Members,
It’s great to have you with us. The 2025–26 performing arts season is a blend of outstanding music, comedy, dance, and drama sure to entertain and rouse the emotions while reminding us all of everything we love about the arts.
Each production is made possible through the hard work and support of our staff, volunteers, students, faculty, benefactors, sponsors, the FSPA whose vision and courage made the Fine Arts Center possible, and of course, you—our patrons. Thank you to everyone for your crucial role in making Viterbo University the premier destination for the arts in the region.
If you have not yet had the pleasure, I would like to extend a personal invitation to attend one of our Conservatory for the Performing Arts productions this season. The immense talent of our students always makes me extremely proud.
Now, on with the show!
“Pace e Bene”
Peace and all good
Rick Trietley
Viterbo University President
COMMOTION – AMERICA’S #1 TRIBUTE TO CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIVAL!
Step into a virtual time machine and journey back to the glory days of the late 60s and early 70s with Commotion – the most electrifying and authentic Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute band on the planet! Get ready to experience the unforgettable hits and legendary sound of CCR, as COMMOTION takes you on a musical voyage that will leave you awe-inspired and craving for more.
Capturing the Magic: Unrivaled Authenticity
COMMOTION pride themselves on their unparalleled attention to detail and commitment to faithfully reproducing the iconic CCR sound. From the soulful voice of Steve McLain to the mesmerizing guitar solos of Jimmy Ryan, the band brings every riff, melody, and rhythm to life with astonishing precision. Jimmy is a platinum-selling musician with a Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award, having recorded and performed with superstars such as Carly Simon, Paul McCartney, Elton John, Mick Jagger, Cat Stevens, James Taylor, Rod Stewart, Jim Croce and many more.
A Voice of a Generation: Embodying John Fogerty, Steve McLain possesses a vocal prowess that rivals the one and only John Fogerty. With his husky timbre, emotive delivery, and uncanny ability to recreate the raw energy of Fogerty, you'll be transported back to the era where CCR ruled the airwaves. Steve, no stranger to live performance, has spent over twenty years wowing fans with his emotionally charged vocals, and an uncanny ability to read an audience and deliver exactly what brings them to their feet.
Unshakable Rhythm
CCR was known for their infectious beats, and drummer, Mark Ellis, and bassist, George Foster, deliver with unrivaled intensity. With every song, you'll feel the pulsating energy that defined the heart and soul of CCR's classic tunes. Get ready to dance, stomp, and sing along as you become one with the infectious rhythms that shaped rock history. Mark Ellis is a multi-instrumentalist, has worked as a staff writer for Atlanta Artist Records, and a recording artist with EMI Electrola as a member of DaVibe. He also toured extensively with the Chicago tribute band, The KC Transit Authority.
George Foster’s bass groove is so deep you could forget who and where you are, but then during a show you might wonder if he’s actually a comedian. Between stages and studios large and small since the 1970s, he’s brought the booty to blues, country, reggae, world, jazz, folk, pop, and rock.
A Journey Through Hits: Iconic Setlist
COMMOTION’S setlist is a rollercoaster ride through Creedence Clearwater Revival's greatest hits. From the swampy grooves of “Green River" to the poignant balladry of "Have You Ever Seen the Rain," and the foot-stomping frenzy of "Bad Moon Rising," COMMOTION takes you on an unforgettable musical journey that will evoke cherished memories and even create new ones. Don't miss the chance to relive the magic and immerse yourself in the music that defined an era. COMMOTION promises an exceptional experience that will leave you wanting more. So grab your friends, put on your bell-bottoms, and join us for a night of unparalleled entertainment as we pay homage to the legendary Creedence Clearwater Revival.

