The history of Screamers

In the heart of Lincoln, Nebraska, a remarkable story of passion and tribute gave birth to a unique dining experience called Screamers Family Restaurant (“Screamers” for short). This restaurant isn’t just an ordinary establishment; it is a heartfelt homage to the beloved Scarlet & Cream Singers, the University of Nebraska/Lincoln's iconic show choir that brought joy to countless families for 35 years.

The Scarlet & Cream Singers, founded in 1973 by the visionary musical director Ray Miller, along with Jack Miller of the Nebraska Alumni Association, became known as the ambassadors of the University Alumni Association. They didn’t just perform; they uplifted spirits across Nebraska, the country, and even abroad, where they entertained American military personnel with their vibrant shows.

Kevin Witcher, a seasoned veteran of the music and entertainment industry and a former member of the Scarlet & Cream, envisioned Screamers as a tribute to this iconic group. Kevin, deeply inspired by his time in the choir and the mentorship of Ray Miller, wanted to create something that would carry forward the legacy of joy, hope, and light that the Scarlet & Cream represented.

Screamers was born from this vision, becoming a place where the spirit of the Scarlet & Cream Singers lives on. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a sanctuary where everyone is welcome, respected, and free to be themselves. It’s a place where people can learn, grow, and connect, all while enjoying great food and exceptional service.

Kevin believes that we all have a soundtrack to our lives, music that evokes memories and stir emotions that help us remember and relive special moments. At Screamers, every meal is accompanied by family-focused entertainment that caters to all, bringing the magic of music and performance into every dining experience.

In creating Screamers, Kevin has crafted a space where the legacy of the Scarlet & Cream Singers continues to shine—a place where every guest can feel the warmth, joy, and inspiration that music and community bring.

I was fortunate to discover my passion for the performing arts early on, which led me to study musical theater at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. After graduating, I embarked on an exciting journey, performing in a variety of music and entertainment venues. From National Broadway tours to Cruise Ships and Theme Parks, and eventually as the frontman for a premier party band in the Washington DC area, I experienced the thrill of connecting with audiences from all walks of life. Each stage I graced taught me something invaluable about the power of music and performance to uplift and unite people.

But life had more in store for me. Driven by a desire to make a difference in a different way, I went back to school to pursue nursing. My journey led me to Johns Hopkins Hospital, where I worked as an ER nurse while attending graduate school at the esteemed Johns Hopkins School of Nursing. There, I earned my Masters Of Science in Nursing degree as an Adult/Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. The challenges and triumphs of working in the ER, where I had the privilege of saving lives daily, deepened my understanding of care, empathy, and the profound impact we can have on others.

These diverse experiences, from the stage to the ER, shaped me in ways I never anticipated. They gave me the tools to create Screamers Family Restaurant, a place where the joy of entertainment meets the compassion of care. At Screamers, we strive to create an uplifting, caring, and healing environment where our guests can feel truly seen and appreciated. I often reflect on how, despite the life-saving work I did in the ER, nothing compares to the warmth and connection I feel when our guests are moved to hug me after a performance. Those moments, filled with hugs and tears, reinforce the special calling I felt when I decided to take this leap and develop a place like Screamers.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been witnessing the impact Screamers has on young, aspiring entertainers. Much like my time with The Scarlet and Cream Singers, Screamers offers these artists a sense of belonging and support that is essential for their growth. Here, they find a community that mentors, encourages, and helps them hone their craft. The rapid confidence building and professional development I see in these young performers is nothing short of extraordinary. Watching them use their talents to make people smile and forget their troubles, even for just a while, is a beautiful reminder of the power of music and community.

I am deeply grateful for the path I've walked, one that has allowed me to combine my love for entertainment with my passion for care. Screamers is more than just a restaurant—it’s a place where people come to feel connected, cared for, and uplifted. And I’m honored to be part of something that brings so much joy and healing into the world.

What sets Screamers apart is the genuine purpose behind everything we do. Whether it's serving great food or entertaining and celebrating those special life moments with our guests, our aim is to bring peace, joy, and comfort to everyone who walks through our doors. We want each person to leave feeling a little better about themselves, life, or the world than when they first arrived.

The Scarlet and Cream Singers would go on for the next 35 years performing across the U.S. and abroad before disbanding in 2008. Although Ray Miller had retired from directing the group, he continued to be a mentor until his death in 2012. Scarlet and Cream will honor Ray's legacy and the lives he touched throughout his career by continuing his work of cultivating local talent, giving them a place to learn and grow.

Screamers Dining and Cabaret offers a dining and entertainment experience like no other in Nebraska or the Midwest at large.

Situated in the historic Haymarket district of Lincoln, Nebraska, Screamers Dining and Cabaret offers classic American cuisine while providing live musical performances featuring the restaurant staff comprised of the hottest up-and-coming local talent.