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Western Swing Legends Asleep at the Wheel to Perform at Heritage Center

By University Relations Staff

DUBUQUE, Iowa - Listen to the irresistible sound of Western swing music with Asleep at the Wheel at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, December 6, 2026, in John and Alice Butler Hall, Heritage Center. The performance is part of the 14th annual Live at Heritage Center Performing Arts.

WHAT:  Asleep at the Wheel
WHEN: 3:00 p.m. Sunday, December 6, 2026 
WHERE: John and Alice Butler Hall, Heritage Center, University of Dubuque
TICKETS:

 - $65 to $75
- UD affiliates receive a $5 discount. UD students free. Additionally, $10 non-UD student rush tickets will be available at the Farber Box Office one hour before Live at Heritage Center events. High school or university ID required.

For over 50 years, Asleep at the Wheel has been a cornerstone of the Austin, Texas, scene. Led by Ray Benson, the group represents an important cornerstone of American roots music, even though some of its members and audiences represent a new generation. More than 100 musicians have passed through the Asleep at the Wheel, but Benson remains the front man and keeper of the vision, in the process racking up more than 30 albums, 10 Grammy Awards, and millions of miles on the road.

"I'm the reason it's still together, but the reason it's popular is because we've had the greatest singers and players," Benson said in a statement. "When someone joins the band, I say, 'Learn everything that's ever been done, then put your own stamp on it.' I love to hear how they interpret what we do. I'm just a singer and songwriter, and a pretty good guitar player, but my best talent is convincing people to jump on board and play this music."

Last fall, a career retrospective recorded with the current lineup - and a few special guests - carried Asleep at the Wheel back onto the road, where they've remained a staple for five decades.

Tickets may be purchased now! Stop by the Farber Box Office, Heritage Center, 2255 Bennett Street; call 563.585.7469; or visit www.dbq.edu/heritagecenter to purchase tickets. The box office is open from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays as well as 90 minutes prior to events.

The Heritage Performing Arts Loyalty System (H-PALS) allows patrons to earn rewards with most ticket purchases. For every $200 spent on eligible events, patrons will receive one free ticket (valued up to $50) to their choice of eligible event. Reward points are redeemable for Live at Heritage Center Performing Arts Series events only. Visit www.dbq.edu/heritagecenter for more details.