2017-18 Season

SEPTEMBER 1 IL DIVO

Friday, September 1, 2017, at 8 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $125/$87/$67/$57/$42

IL DIVO has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide with 160 gold and platinum awards, and The Guinness Book of World Records lists IL DIVO as the most successful classical-crossover group in international music history. Comprised of Urs Buhler (Switzerland), Carlos Marin (Spain), David Miller (United States) and Sebastien Izambard (France), IL DIVO was named “Artist of the Decade” at the Classic Brit Awards. Their concerts are historic, with sold-out shows in 69 cities in 18 countries. Sponsored by:

OCTOBER 1 STEPHEN STILLS & JUDY COLLINS Sunday, October 1, 2017, at 7 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $77/$62/$52/$42/$35

50 years ago, singer-songwriter Stephen Stills met singer-songwriter Judy Collins, known for her piercing ocean-blue eyes. Their tumultuous love affair would later be immortalized by Stills with his composition “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes,” performed by Crosby, Stills & Nash on their landmark debut. Both artists would go on to shape modern music with visionary approaches, but Stills and Collins’ short fiery union remains a transformative era for the two artists. This fall, the two icons of folk will celebrate the golden anniversary of their formative time together.

Sponsored by: ntr

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RICHMOND BALLET - TRIO

Thursday, October 26, 2017, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $47/$42, Child Ticket: $10

Dance Series Sponsor

Richmond Ballet keeps meaningful works of dance alive and produces and fosters new pieces with a mission to awaken and uplift the human spirit, both for audiences and artists alike. The company will present three works, all making their Ferguson Center debut. The eclectic program includes Gloria, a dance interpretation through Vivaldi’s hymn; Silence, inspired by the music of Estonian composer Arvo Pärt, evoking a sense of space and meditative timelessness; and Journey, showcasing the strength, vitality and physical virtuosity of the male dancer.

Sponsored by:

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MICHAEL CARBONARO LIVE! Sunday, October 29, 2017, at 7 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $55/$50/$40

Ever wondered what it feels like to be on the other side of Michael Carbonaro as he works his magic to make people believe the unbelievable? This is your chance to find out! From his hit television series “The Carbonaro Effect” on truTV, magician Michael Carbonaro brings his signature blend of bizarre antics, audience interaction, hilarious video clips and mind-blowing magic, live on stage! Don’t miss out on your chance to feel the effect of Michael Carbonaro … LIVE!

NOVEMBER 5

THE MARTIAL ARTISTS AND ACROBATS OF TIANJIN, PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA Sunday, November 5, 2017, at 3 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $35, Child Ticket: $10

Family Series Sponsor

One of the best acrobatic troupes from China, the Martial Artists and Acrobats of Tianjin, People’s Republic of China, shows off its superior skill with thrilling acrobatics, circus acts, illusions and mesmerizing demonstrations of martial arts. Accompanied by traditional Chinese music, more than 100 acrobatic and martial arts performers take the stage in a vibrant spectacle of aerial stunts, juggling acts, contortion tricks and feats of balance guaranteed to dazzle and delight. Sponsored by: THE CENTER

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BELLA GAIA

Thursday, November 9, 2017, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $37/$25 "Discover what it’s like to be an astronaut" (The Washington Post) Inspired by astronauts who spoke of the life-changing power of seeing Earth from space, the award-winning Bella Gaia is an unprecedented NASA-powered immersive experience that communicates, without words, the beauty of the planet both natural and cultural (bella) - and the interconnectedness of all things on Earth (Gaia). A visceral experience manifests for all the senses through the combination of supercomputer data-visualizations from NASA, high-fidelity orbital views of Earth, cultural photography, and stirring live music and dance performances from around the globe, to create the "sublime" and “out of this world” experience (Village Voice, USA Today).

Sponsored by:

10 ALTON BROWN LIVE: “EAT YOUR SCIENCE” Friday, November 10, 2017, at 7 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: VIP $153.50/$78.50/$68.50/$48.50

Alton Brown Live: “Eat Your Science,” the follow-up to the smash “Edible Inevitable” tour, hits the road in 2017. Fans can expect more comedy, talk show antics, multimedia presentations and music (yes, he sings), but Brown is adding a slew of fresh ingredients, including new puppets, songs, and bigger and potentially more dangerous experiments. Brown has a knack for mixing together a perfect base of science, music and food into two hours of pure entertainment. Critics and fans rave about the interactive fun when Brown invites an audience member on stage to serve as his assistant.

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2017-2018

CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT

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MOSCOW STATE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Monday, November 13, 2017, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall $62/$57/$47/$35

Classical Series Sponsor

Alexander Sidnev, Conductor Dmitry Masleev, Pianist The Moscow State Symphony Orchestra (MSSO) has become renowned around the globe for its artistic excellence, imaginative programming and community engagement.

The distinguished orchestra showcases an allRussian program, featuring Dmitry Masleev, winner of the 2015 International Tchaikovsky Competition. Masleev will perform an audience favorite: Tchaikovsky’s brilliant Piano Concerto No. 1.

PROGRAM: Sergei Rachmaninov: "The Rock" Op. 7 Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky - Piano Concerto No. 1 Alexander Scriabin - Symphony No. 2 Sponsored by:

21 “A CHRISTMAS STORY – THE MUSICAL” &

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Tuesday, November 21, 2017, at 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, November 22, 2017, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $72.50/$62.50/$52.50

The Smarter Way to Bank.

Broadway Series Sponsor

Based on the classic 1983 movie, “A Christmas Story, The Musical,” nominated for three 2013 Tony Awards including Best Musical, comes to hilarious life on stage! In 1940s Indiana, a young and bespectacled Ralphie Parker schemes his way toward the holiday gift of his dreams, an official Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200-Shot Range Model Air Rifle. An infamous leg lamp, outrageous pink bunny pajamas, a maniacal department store Santa and a triple-dog-dare to lick a freezing flagpole are just a few of the distractions that stand between Ralphie and his Christmas wish. The Associated Press calls it “a joyous Christmas miracle,” while The New York Times writes, “I was dazzled. You’d have to have a Grinch-sized heart not to feel a smile spreading across your face.”

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IRISH TENORS CHRISTMAS – WE THREE KINGS WITH THE VIRGINIA SYMPHONY Thursday, November 30, 2017, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $85/$72/$62/$47/$35

Holiday Series Sponsor

The Irish Tenors – Finbar Wright, Anthony Kearns and Ronan Tynan – have performed for prime ministers and presidents, from Madison Square Garden to the Hollywood Bowl, and return to the Ferguson Center stage for a holiday concert like no other. This original trio, regarded as the godfathers of Irish repertoire, join voices to thrill audiences with their sweeping standards and dynamic holiday fare. Delight in the full-bodied sound of the backing of the Virginia Symphony and pure tenor harmony, guaranteed to make this winter concert richly entertaining. The Irish Tenors have been the acknowledged Celtic music kings since 1998, and their Christmas album, “We Three Kings,” is one of the best-selling holiday CDs ever recorded​.

Sponsored by:

DECEMBER 1

DAVE KOZ: 20TH ANNIVERSARY CHRISTMAS TOUR Friday, December 1, 2017, at 8 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $77/$62/$52/$42/$35

Holiday Series Sponsor

Jazz saxophonist Dave Koz presents the 20th anniversary of his Christmas tour with special guests David Benoit, Rick Braun, Peter White and Selina Albright. Two decades ago, Grammy nominee Dave Koz – a nice Jewish boy – launched his first-ever Christmas tour. Now fans and families across the country await his arrival with the kind of anticipation formerly reserved for St. Nick himself, earning the saxophonist extraordinaire the nickname “Santa Koz.” The concert will feature fresh renditions of Christmas classics as well as a Chanukah medley and hits from the artists’ respective catalogs.

Sponsored by:

Steven & Joan Marks

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CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR

Wednesday, December 6, 2017, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $60/$50/$40 Christmas Wonderland is a delightful and enchanting Christmas show, featuring glittering costumes, a dazzling cast and the highest kicking chorus girls this side of the North Pole! Start Christmas in style as Santa and his merry helpers take you on an unforgettable, nostalgic Christmas journey. With over a thousand glittering costumes, and spectacular sets and scenery, the show parades its way through the wonder of Christmas and the excitement of the holiday season.

Sponsored by:

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JIM BRICKMAN “A JOYFUL CHRISTMAS” Thursday, December 21, 2017, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $72/$52/$42/$32

Holiday Series Sponsor

Grammy-nominated songwriter and piano sensation Jim Brickman celebrates “A Joyful Christmas,” delivering the sound and spirit of the season with carols, classics and original songs during his 21st holiday tour. Holiday music brings yuletide memories to life as he helps audiences escape from the holiday hustle-and-bustle, keeping days merry and bright. Bring your family, friends or that special someone, and make Jim Brickman your new holiday tradition!

Sponsored by:

JANUARY 23 RONALD K. BROWN: EVIDENCE, A DANCE COMPANY Tuesday, January 23, 2018, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $47/$42, Child Ticket: $10

Dance Series Sponsor

Founded by Ronald K. Brown in 1985 and based in Brooklyn, Evidence, A Dance Company, focuses on the seamless integration of traditional African dance with contemporary choreography and spoken word, providing a unique view of human struggles, tragedies and triumphs. The program will feature On Earth Together, an ensemble piece inspired by and set to the music of Stevie Wonder; Why You Follow, an exploration of the rhythmic pace of Afro-Cuba; and March, an extraordinary duet set to a speech by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Sponsored by: THE CENTER

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JEANNE ROBERTSON

Saturday, January 27, 2018, at 7 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $40/$35/$30

At 72 years young, Jeanne Robertson continues to charm audiences with her humorous observations about life. This former Miss North Carolina, standing tall at 6-foot-2, has an infectious personality, heart and sense of humor. With eight nationally released DVDs, three books, hundreds of hours on SiriusXM and over 30 million YouTube hits, the demand for Robertson's family friendly and engaging brand of comedy has grown exponentially. Some of her most popular anecdotes include "Don't Go to Vegas Without a Baptist," "Don't Bungee Jump Naked" and "Don't Send a Man to the Grocery Store." Her witty depiction of everyday situations never fails to have audiences of all ages rolling with laughter.

Sponsored by:

FEBRUARY 8

BERLIN PHILHARMONIC PIANO QUARTET Thursday, February 8, 2018, at 7:30 p.m.

Peebles Theatre Tickets: $47, Child Ticket: $10

Classical Series Sponsor

The Berlin Philharmonic Piano Quartet, one of the few existing ensembles of that instrumentation, is a collaboration between three award-winning permanent members of the Berliner Philharmoniker: Concertmaster Andreas Buschatz, violist Matthew Hunter and cellist Knut Weber, along with renowned concert pianist Markus Groh. This outstanding ensemble is committed to not only representing the standard repertoire of classical, romantic and modern pieces, but also finding undiscovered masterpieces of the literature that encompasses over 400 works.

PROGRAM: Heinrich von Herzogenberg - Piano Quartet No. 1, Op. 75 Gustav Mahler - Piano Quartet, Fragment, in A minor Alfred Schnittke - Piano Quartet, Mahler Fragment Johannes Brahms - Piano Quartet, Op. 25, in G minor Sponsored by:

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CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT

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MUTTS GONE NUTS!

Saturday, February 10, 2018, at 2 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $35, Child Ticket: $10

Family Series Sponsor

It’s Doggone Incredible! Expect the unexpected, as canines and comedy collide in a smash-hit performance that’s leaving audiences everywhere howling for more! From shelters to showbiz, these amazing mutts unleash havoc and hilarity in a breathtaking, action-packed, comedy dog spectacular, featuring some of the world’s most talented four-legged performers. Deemed “a must see” by The Washington Post, the dogs are sure to steal your heart, and then your socks!

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DIANA KRALL

Wednesday, February 21, 2018, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $150/$89/$80/$72/$65 Diana Krall is the only jazz singer to have eight albums debut at the top of the Billboard Jazz Albums chart. To date, her albums have garnered five Grammy Awards, eight Juno Awards and have also earned nine gold, three platinum and seven multiplatinum albums. Krall’s unique artistry transcends any single musical style and has made her one of the most recognizable artists of our time.

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“CABARET”

Thursday, February 22, 2018, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $68.50/$58.50/$48.50

The Smarter Way to Bank.

Broadway Series Sponsor

Based on Roundabout Theatre Company’s Tony Award-winning production, Sam Mendes' (“Skyfall,” “American Beauty”) and Rob Marshall’s (“Into the Woods,” “Chicago,” the films) “Cabaret” comes to the Ferguson Center on February 22. Come hear some of the most memorable songs in theater history, including “Cabaret,” “Willkommen” and “Maybe This Time.” Leave your troubles outside – life is beautiful at “Cabaret” – John Kander, Fred Ebb and Joe Masteroff’s Tony-winning musical about following your heart while the world loses its way.

Sponsored by:

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“A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE & MURDER” Tuesday, February 27, 2018, at 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, February 28, 2018, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $63.50/$53.50/$43.50

The Smarter Way to Bank.

Broadway Series Sponsor

Getting away with murder can be so much fun … and there’s no better proof than the hilarious hit show that won the 2014 Tony Award for Best Musical – “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder”! As one most gentlemanly NPR critic put it, “I’ve never laughed so hard at a Broadway musical!” “Gentleman’s Guide” tells the uproarious story of Monty Navarro, an heir to a family fortune who sets out to jump the line of succession by eliminating the eight pesky relatives who stand in his way … and be done in time for tea. The Hollywood Reporter raves, “‘Gentleman’s Guide’ restores our faith in musical comedy!”

MARCH 3

DOKTOR KABOOM! LIVE WIRE: THE ELECTRICITY TOUR Saturday, March 3, 2018, at 3 p.m.

Peebles Theatre Tickets: $35, Child Ticket: $10

Family Series Sponsor

Doktor Kaboom, an over-the-top German physicist, travels the world over, thrilling both adults and children with his scientific prowess. Join the “good Doktor” as he takes the audience on an educational tour of the fundamentals of electrical energy, full of increasingly spectacular, sidesplitting experiments designed to involve, excite and entertain. This tour was co-commissioned by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, and first presented at the Kennedy Center during the 2014-2015 season. Best for Grades 3-8 and family.

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CAMERATA IRELAND WITH BARRY DOUGLAS Sunday, March 4, 2018, at 5 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $52/$47/$42/$35, Child Ticket: $10

Classical Series Sponsor

Founded in 1999 by Barry Douglas, international pianist, conductor and recording artist, Camerata Ireland has become a chamber orchestra of excellence to match the best in the world. It brings together the finest Irish musicians from both the North and the South, players holding top positions in some of the major British and European orchestras, and exceptional young Irish musicians, to celebrate, in Barry Douglas’ own words, “the wealth of Irish talent and shared musical heritage.” The program will feature Douglas’ Celtic Orbit Suite, with fiddler, harpist, uilleann pipe and flute.

PROGRAM: Neil Martin - Concerto for uilleann pipes and orchestra John Field - Two Nocturnes for piano and orchestra (arr B. Douglas) Ludwig von Beethoven - Piano Concerto No. 2 Barry Douglas - Celtic Orbit Suite Sponsored by:

THE CENTER

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FOREIGNER

Tuesday, March 6, 2018, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $87/$77/$57/$42 With 10 multiplatinum albums and 16 Top 30 hits, Foreigner is universally hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world with a formidable musical arsenal that continues to propel sold-out tours and album sales, now exceeding 75 million. Responsible for some of rock and roll’s most enduring anthems, including “Juke Box Hero,” “Feels Like the First Time,” “Urgent,” “Head Games,” “Hot Blooded,” “Cold As Ice,” “Dirty White Boy,” “Waiting for a Girl Like You,” and the worldwide No. 1 hit “I Want to Know What Love Is,” Foreigner continues to rock the charts almost 40 years into the game.

Sponsored by:

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MOSCOW FESTIVAL BALLET: SWAN LAKE

Thursday, March 15, 2018, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $47/$42, Child Ticket $10

Dance Series Sponsor

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CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT

The esteemed Moscow Festival Ballet Company, founded in 1989 by legendary principal dancer of the Bolshoi Ballet Sergei Radchenko, brings together the best of Russian ballet. Arguably the most famous ballet the world has ever known, Swan Lake is a masterpiece of dance and music, rich with drama and grace. Featuring a company of more than 50 dancers, the ballet weaves together a story of young love and wicked deception against a backdrop of Tchaikovsky’s lush, passionate score. Moscow Festival Ballet’s elegant sets and breathtaking choreography are sure to make this a beloved memory for audiences of all ages.

Sponsored by:

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“WIZARD OF OZ”

Thursday, March 22, 2018, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $68.50/$58.50/$38.50

The Smarter Way to Bank.

Broadway Series Sponsor

There truly is no place like home as the greatest family musical of all time, the wonderful “Wizard of Oz,” twists its way into Newport News! The entire family will be captivated as they travel down the Yellow Brick Road and beyond with Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow in this lavish production, featuring breathtaking special effects, dazzling choreography and classic songs.

Sponsored by:

APRIL 10 &

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“MOTOWN: THE MUSICAL” Tuesday, April 10, 2018, at 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, April 11, 2018, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $72.50/$62.50/$52.50

The Smarter Way to Bank.

Broadway Series Sponsor

It began as one man’s story … became everyone’s music … and is now Broadway’s musical. “Motown the Musical” is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more.

Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives and made us all move to the same beat. With such classic songs as “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” you’ll experience the story behind the music in the recordbreaking smash hit … “Motown the Musical!”

Sponsored by:

MOTOWN ® IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF UMG RECORDINGS, INC.

MAY 15

STOMP

Tuesday, May 15, 2018, at 7:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $75/$65/$55/$35

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STOMP is explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, utterly unique and appeals to audiences of all ages.

The return of the percussive hit also brings some new surprises, with some sections of the show now updated and restructured and the addition of two new full-scale routines, utilizing props like tractor tire inner tubes and paint cans. STOMP. See what all the noise is about.

Sponsored by:

“CINDERELLA”

Saturday, May 19, 2018, at 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, May 20, 2018, at 6:30 p.m.

Diamonstein Concert Hall Tickets: $68.50/$58.50/$38.50

The Smarter Way to Bank.

Broadway Series Sponsor

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” is the Tony Awardwinning Broadway musical from the creators of “The Sound of Music” and “South Pacific” that’s delighting audiences with its contemporary take on the classic tale. This lush production features an incredible orchestra, jaw-dropping transformations and all the moments you love – the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more – plus some surprising new twists! Be transported back to your childhood as you rediscover some of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most beloved songs in this hilarious and romantic Broadway experience.

GLASS SLIPPERS ARE SO BACK.

SPECIAL THANKS to our community sponsors

series sponsors:

The Smarter Way to Bank.

performance sponsors:

Steven & Joan Marks