Trick Roper Joan Wells

Join us Easter weekend as Joan Wells, Women's World Champion Trick Roper and inductee to the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame, presents a unique performance of roping tricks just like those seen in the early Wild West shows and rodeos.

In 1883, Buffalo Bill created his touring Wild West Show following his "Old Glory Blow Out" performance in North Platte, Nebraska. This type of Wild West performance became a part of American Western heritage some 150 years ago. When Vincente Oropeza introduced trick roping to Buffalo Bill's show, he gave the American cowboy a different perspective of the art of roping. Joan tells the history of the Buffalo Bill Show and its performers, and demonstrates roping tricks of that era. Joan performs over eighty tricks in a single routine including butterfly combinations, multiple rope spins, double tricks, the Big Loop, Ocean Wave, and the Texas Skip. 

This event is free and open to the public.

Support for the program was provided by Humanities Nebraska and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment.

HEALTH PRECAUTIONS: As we transition back to in-person performances, the Opera House will maintain socially-distanced seating. Face coverings are required to be worn at all times while inside the Opera House and National Willa Cather Center. Concessions will not be available, but patrons are welcome to bring a water bottle (no glass).