Robert Cardwell

NSU Department of Theatre & Dance

Dr. Robert Cardwell is the Gala director. More than 300 Northwestern State students, faculty and staff in the School of Creative and Performing Arts combine their talents to present the Gala as a kickoff to the Natchitoches Christmas Festival. Large crowds attend the Gala each year which is based on the long-running Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular. 

This year’s theme revolves around the favorite family pastime during the Christmas season of sitting at home with loved ones and enjoying some of the many Christmas movie classics. This year’s gala will feature some of the most beloved Hollywood Christmas tunes. As a special treat, we have also chosen an opera-inspired finale in honor of Jim Bob Key, co-founder of the Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Society and supporter of the arts at NSULA. 

The Christmas Gala