Some openings

Opera Omaha continues its recent tradition of working with artists in its latest collaboration. The Opera commissioned artist Waite White to create images for the world premiere performance of The Blizzard Voices by composer Paul Moravec. The show is based on the poetry of former U.S. Poet Laureate Ted Kooser and is a retelling of the dramatic story of the blizzard of 1888. White illustrated characters and scenes from the poetry that will be projected on large screens during the performances. At left is one of his drawings, called "The Search Party."

White has an accompanying show on display at the Nebraska Arts Council's Fred Simon Gallery, where he's showing a new series of work, titled PULP, as well as bold, vibrant oil paintings inspired by everyday life. In a statement, White said he explores the relationship between the subject, its surroundings and how it relates to art in his work. He draws inspiration from impressionism, realism and contemporary culture.

The Blizzard Voices runs Sept. 12 at the Holland Performing Arts Center and Sept. 13 at the Arts Center at Iowa Western Community College. For more information on tickets, visit www.operaomaha.org. The NAC Fred Simon show continues through Sept. 12.

If you've ever wondered about the origins of the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben (and honestly, I have) a new show at the Durham Museum will answer some of your questions. Dawn in Quivira: The Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben, 1895-1900 chronicles the beginning of the group, which went on to become one of the most influential organizations in the region. The show tells the story of the foundation of the Knights, the ascent of the monarchy and the group's eventual contributions to Omaha and the state of Nebraska. Several prominent businessmen banded together in the late 1800s with the mission of attracting people to Omaha, and eventually assimilated the Spanish myth of Quivira, a legendary kingdom containing seven cities of gold. From this mythology came the royal house of Ak-Sar-Ben with its ceremony, coronation and pageantry. The organization also spearheaded the creation of the Nebraska State Fairs. The show is the first in a series of Ak-Sar-Ben Hall of Fame Exhibitions that will be at Durham; this one is on display through Nov. 9.