2025-2026






After a season of record-breaking attendance and 15 sold-out shows, we’re thrilled to unveil another bold and diverse lineup at Jefferson Center. Kicking off this fall, audiences can look forward to unforgettable performances from Grammy-winning icons like Wynton Marsalis and Ricky Skaggs, genredefying innovators like Molly Tuttle and Greensky Bluegrass, long-revered rockers like Little Feat and Chris Isaak, and rising jazz stars including Tuba Skinny and Nicole Zuraitis.
We’re bringing back crowd favorites like Jstop Latin Soul, this time teaming up with Tumbao for an energized night of live music and dancing with Big Lick Latin Underground. Seasonal celebrations continue with Squirrel Nut Zippers’ Christmas Caravan, and theatrical offerings like Barter Theatre’s heartwarming I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas.
From soulful blues to big band jazz, bluegrass to rockabilly and beyond, there’s something for everyone this season. And as always, stay tuned— there’s more to come!
Jamie Cheatwood
Programming Manager
$100+ DONORS & SUBSCRIPTION RENEWALS
MON, JULY 14, 10AM
Early Access Code will be emailed to donors and previous season subscribers at 9AM on July 14.
INDIVIDUAL & NEW SUBSCRIPTIONS
TUES, JULY 29, 10AM
Fri, Oct 3, 2025
RICKY SKAGGS
AND KENTUCKY THUNDER
Fri, Oct 10, 2025
MOLLY TUTTLE
WITH CECILIA CASTLEMAN & BIRDTALKER
Sun, Nov 23, 2025
CHRISTMAS CARAVAN
Sun, Dec 7, 2025
LITTLE FEAT
Tues, Apr 14, 2026
Wed, Oct 1, 2025
MARSALIS
WITH JAZZ AT LINCOLN
CENTER ORCHESTRA
Sat, Apr 25, 2026
Fri, May 22, 2026
MICHAEL MAYO
Wed, Sept 10, 2025
TODD MARCUS QUINTET
Fri, Sept 26, 2025
WALTER SMITH III
Sat, Jan 17, 2026
Wed, Feb 25, 2026
Thur, Mar 5, 2026 BRIAN CHARETTE
Sat, May 30, 2026
BARTER PLAYERS' I WANT A HIPPOPOTAMUS FOR CHRISTMAS
Sat, Dec 13, 2025
BARTER PLAYERS' ALICE IN WONDERLAND
Fri, Feb 6, 2026
SHADOWS OF THE '60s THE SUPREME GIRLS OF MOTOWN
Sat, Sept 27, 2025
WITH JSTOP LATIN
SOUL & BIG LICK LATIN UNDERGROUND
Sat, Oct 11, 2025
GREENSKY BLUEGRASS Thur, Nov 6, 2025
Fri, Jan 16, 2026
VIRGINIA TECH JAZZ ENSEMBLE & PATRICK HENRY JAZZ BAND IN CONCERT
Wed, Mar 4, 2026 SAM BUSH BAND
Sat, Mar 21, 2026
CHRIS ISAAK
Wed, Dec 10, 2025
RAUL MIDÓN
Fri, May 15, 2026
Jefferson Center wishes to recognize the 2025-2026 Season Sponsors whose generosity and loyalty are making Jefferson Center Presents possible.
(10,000)
For information on corporate underwriting and benefits, contact the development department at 540-685-2304 or development@jeffcenter.org. You may also visit jeffcenter.org/support to see a list of sponsor opportunities.
($5,000)
($2,500)
PARTNER SPONSORS
($1,000)
CARILION MEDICAL CENTER
DAVIDSONS
FRET MILL MUSIC CO.
GENTRY LOCKE ATTORNEYS
INNOVATIVE INSURANCE
MAST GENERAL STORE
MILLER, LONG & ASSOCIATES
ROANOKE ANIMAL HOSPITAL
Sugaray Rayford is a powerhouse blues and soul artist whose commanding voice and magnetic stage presence have earned him international acclaim. Blending classic R&B, funk, and gospel roots with contemporary grit, Rayford delivers electrifying performances that leave audiences breathless. A Grammy-nominated vocalist and B.B. King Entertainer of the Year winner, his raw, emotionally rich sound draws comparisons to legends like Otis Redding and James Brown. Backed by a tight, dynamic band, Sugaray brings old-school soul into the modern era. His appearance at Jefferson Center promises a night of unstoppable groove and heartfelt storytelling.
FRI, OCT 3, 2025
8:00PM
Ricky Skaggs is a bluegrass and country music icon whose career spans over five decades and includes 15 Grammy Awards. A virtuosic mandolin player and singer, Skaggs has played a pivotal role in bringing traditional Appalachian music to mainstream audiences. His innovative blend of roots, gospel, and contemporary bluegrass has made him a beloved figure across generations. With a stage presence that’s both down-home and dazzling, he delivers performances full of musical mastery and heartfelt storytelling. Audiences can expect a joyful, high-energy evening steeped in American musical heritage.
FRI, OCT 10, 2025 8:00PM
On the heels of two Grammy-winning albums in succession, with her band Golden Highway—2022’s Crooked Tree and 2023’s City of Gold—plus a nomination for Best New Artist, Molly Tuttle returns with So Long Little Miss Sunshine. On this album—a hybrid of pop, country, rock, and flatpicking, plus one murder ballad—she goes to a whole new place. One of the most decorated female guitarists alive, Tuttle was the first woman to win the prestigious International Bluegrass Music Award for Guitar Player of the Year. She has also won Americana Music Association’s Instrumentalist of the Year award.
SUN, NOV 23, 2025 7:00PM
Celebrate the season with the Squirrel Nut Zippers' Christmas Caravan, a festive fusion of 1920s jazz, swing, klezmer, and vaudeville. Led by founder Jimbo Mathus, the band delivers a lively performance featuring holiday classics, selections from their acclaimed Christmas Caravan album, and fan favorites from their extensive catalog. This unique blend of Southern roots music and theatrical flair creates an atmosphere reminiscent of a vintage speakeasy adorned with holiday cheer. Experience an unforgettable evening of music and merriment that captures the spirit of the holidays in true Squirrel Nut Zippers style.
SUN, DEC 7, 2025
Little Feat is a legendary American rock band known for its masterful fusion of rock, blues, country, and funk. Since their formation in 1969, the band has built a devoted following with hits like "Time Loves a Hero" and "Willin'", showcasing their rich musicianship and unmistakable groove. With a sound that’s both loose and tight, gritty and joyful, Little Feat’s live shows are a celebration of American roots music at its most dynamic. Decades into their storied career, they continue to deliver high-energy, feel-good performances that bring audiences to their feet.
TUES, APR 14, 2026 7:30PM
Banjo. Drums. Harp. To be sure, the new all-star trio of Béla Fleck, harpist Edmar Castañeda and drummer Antonio Sanchez features instrumentation that might safely be called uncommon. Unless, of course, you're already familiar with 18-time Grammy winner Béla Fleck - the genre-blurring virtuoso who has done more to expand the possibilities of the banjo than any other player in the instrument's history. From his bluegrass beginnings through his otherworldly Flecktones, his duo with Chick Corea and his reimagining of Rhapsody in Blue, Fleck's work never fails to surprise. Playing original repertoire, much of it collaboratively written, the trio embarks on fearless explorations that audiences will find irresistible - rich with strong melodies, gorgeous harmony and grooves that twist and turn.
WED, OCT 1, 2025
7:30PM
Led by Grammy and Pulitzer Prize-winning trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra is one of the world’s premier big bands. With a deep reverence for jazz traditions and a bold vision for its future, the ensemble delivers swinging, soulful, and impeccably crafted performances that honor legends while celebrating innovation. Marsalis and his handpicked orchestra of musicians bring new life to classic repertoire while premiering fresh works that reflect the vitality of jazz today. Their performance at Jefferson Center promises an evening of sophistication, energy, and timeless musical excellence.
SAT, APR 25, 2026
Ravi Coltrane is a celebrated saxophonist, composer, and bandleader known for his powerful tone, creative phrasing, and deep roots in the jazz tradition. The son of legendary musicians John and Alice Coltrane, Ravi has carved out a distinctive voice of his own, blending innovation with reverence. His playing spans traditional, avant-garde, and contemporary jazz, often characterized by its expressive nuance and emotional depth. A Grammy nominee and in-demand collaborator, Coltrane has worked with artists like Elvin Jones, Jack DeJohnette, and Geri Allen. His performance will deliver a night of soul-stirring, boundary-pushing jazz that honors the past while forging ahead.
Michael Mayo is a dynamic jazz vocalist whose boundarypushing artistry blends improvisation, soulful expression, and genre-crossing innovation. A graduate of the New England Conservatory and the Thelonious Monk Institute, Mayo has performed alongside Herbie Hancock, Kneebody, and Jacob Collier, gaining acclaim for his vocal agility and modern, loopbased solo sets. His debut album Bones, produced by Eli Wolf (Norah Jones, Al Green), showcases his remarkable range and fearless musicality. Whether fronting a band or building entire soundscapes with just his voice and pedals, Mayo offers a fresh, exhilarating take on vocal jazz.
FOSTEK HALL
WED, SEPT 10, 2025
7:00PM & 9:00PM
GENERAL ADMISSION: $41 * $6 Box Office Fee is Included in Pricing
Todd Marcus is one of the few artists worldwide to focus exclusively on the bass clarinet, bringing an original voice and bold compositional style to modern jazz. Based in Baltimore, Marcus blends straight-ahead jazz with Middle Eastern influences, reflecting his Egyptian-American heritage. His quintet performances showcase a powerful mix of hard-swinging grooves, lyrical melodies, and intricate arrangements. Known for his energetic presence and commitment to musical storytelling, Marcus is not only an accomplished bandleader but also an advocate for social justice through the arts.
FOSTEK HALL
FRI, SEPT 26, 2025
7:00PM & 9:00PM
ADMISSION: $41
Walter Smith III is a standout tenor saxophonist, composer, and educator who has performed with jazz greats like Terence Blanchard, Herbie Hancock, and Jason Moran. A graduate of Berklee and the Thelonious Monk Institute, Smith blends technical brilliance with a creative approach to modern jazz. His acclaimed albums on Blue Note Records showcase his expressive tone and thoughtful compositions. In addition to performing worldwide, he serves as Chair of the Woodwind Department at Berklee College of Music, shaping the next generation of jazz talent.
FOSTEK HALL
SAT, JAN 17, 2026
7:00PM & 9:00PM
ADMISSION: $41
Tuba Skinny is a New Orleans-based ensemble renowned for their authentic interpretations of early jazz, blues, and ragtime. Formed in 2009, the band evolved from a group of street musicians into a globally recognized act, captivating audiences with their energetic performances and dedication to traditional American music. Their repertoire includes a mix of classic tunes and original compositions, reflecting the rich musical heritage of the early 20th century. Despite international acclaim, Tuba Skinny remains grounded in their roots, often performing on the streets of New Orleans to maintain a close connection with their audience. Their commitment to preserving and revitalizing traditional jazz continues to inspire fans worldwide.
FOSTEK HALL
WED, FEB 25, 2026
7:00PM & 9:00PM
GENERAL ADMISSION: $41 * $6 Box Office Fee is Included in Pricing
Nicole Zuraitis is a Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist, pianist, and songwriter whose genre-blurring sound blends soulful expression with sharp musicianship. A dynamic performer and bandleader, Zuraitis has captivated audiences around the world with her powerful voice, heartfelt storytelling, and command of jazz, pop, and folk influences. Her 2024 album How Love Begins showcases her artistry as both a vocalist and a composer, earning acclaim for its fresh interpretations and deeply personal themes. Whether performing solo or with her band, Zuraitis delivers an emotionally rich and musically sophisticated experience that connects deeply with listeners.
FOSTEK HALL
THUR, MAR 5, 2026
7:00PM & 9:00PM
GENERAL ADMISSION: $41
* $6 Box Office Fee is Included in Pricing
Brian Charette is a Grammy-nominated jazz organist and pianist renowned for his unique blend of traditional jazz with modern electronic elements. Hailing from Meriden, Connecticut, he began performing professionally in his teens and has since become a fixture in the New York City jazz scene. Charette has collaborated with artists such as Joni Mitchell, Chaka Khan, and Paul Simon. His extensive discography includes over 20 albums, with recent releases like Jackpot and Power from the Air showcasing his versatility and creativity. Beyond performance, Charette is a dedicated educator and author, contributing to publications like DownBeat and Keyboard Magazine, and teaching masterclasses worldwide.
FOSTEK HALL
SAT, MAY 30, 2026
7:00PM & 9:00PM
Join Barter Theatre for a heartwarming holiday adventure with I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas. Set at the Cincinnati Zoo, this festive musical follows seven-year-old Lois Jean, whose Christmas wish is for the zoo’s hippo, Big Suzy, to give birth in time for the holidays. When baby Bella arrives prematurely, it takes a miracle—and a little help from Santa—to save the day. Filled with catchy songs, lovable characters, and the magic of the season, this one-act show is perfect for audiences of all ages. Performances will be held at 2:00PM and 7:00PM on December 13th.
SAT, DEC 13, 2025
2:00PM & 7:00PM
Join Barter Theatre for a whimsical journey down the rabbit hole in Alice in Wonderland, adapted by Catherine Bush. When young Alice follows the White Rabbit, she enters a fantastical world filled with curious characters like the Mad Hatter, Cheshire Cat, and Queen of Hearts. This imaginative oneact play celebrates the power of storytelling and creativity, making it an enchanting experience for audiences of all ages. With vibrant performances and captivating visuals, Alice in Wonderland promises an unforgettable adventure that brings Lewis Carroll's classic tale to life.
Experience the magic of Motown with Shadows of the '60s: The Supreme Girls of Motown. This tribute brings to life the iconic sounds of The Supremes and other legendary female artists from Motown's golden era. Featuring top industry musicians and singers adorned in exquisitely designed costumes, the performance captures the essence of the 1960s with dazzling choreography and authentic renditions of classic hits. Audiences will be transported back in time, reliving the joy and excitement of a live Motown concert. Don't miss this unforgettable evening celebrating the enduring legacy of Motown's supreme ladies.
SHAFTMAN
PERFORMANCE HALL
SAT, SEPT 27, 2025
8:00PM
GENERAL ADMISSION: $46
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a high-energy night of live Latin music and dancing at Jefferson Center! Featuring performances by Tumbao and Jstop Latin Soul, this event promises a vibrant mix of salsa, rumba, cha-cha, and Afro-Cuban jazz, all performed by top-tier regional musicians. Before the music starts, Big Lick Latin Underground will lead dance lessons to get everyone moving. Whether you're an experienced dancer or stepping onto the floor for the first time, this is your chance to immerse yourself in rhythm, culture, and community. Come ready to dance the night away!
FITZPATRICK HALL
SAT, OCT 11, 2025
8:00PM
GENERAL ADMISSION: $20
Greensky Bluegrass is a quintet from Kalamazoo, Michigan, renowned for blending the acoustic energy of bluegrass with the improvisational spirit of rock and jam bands. Comprising Anders Beck (dobro), Michael Arlen Bont (banjo), Dave Bruzza (guitar), Mike Devol (upright bass), and Paul Hoffman (mandolin), the band has captivated audiences for over two decades with their inventive soundscapes. Their latest album, Stress Dreams, showcases their continued evolution, featuring introspective songwriting and expansive arrangements. Known for their electrifying shows and relentless touring, Greensky Bluegrass offers a musical experience that transcends traditional genre boundaries.
PERFORMANCE HALL
THUR, NOV 6, 2025 7:30PM
Chris Isaak is a platinum-selling singer-songwriter known for his haunting ballads, vintage rock ‘n’ roll sensibility, and cinematic stage presence. With a voice that evokes the golden age of Elvis and Roy Orbison, Isaak has built a career on unforgettable hits like “Wicked Game,” “Baby Did a Bad Bad Thing,” and “Somebody’s Crying.” His live performances are equally evocative—romantic, moody, and irresistibly fun, blending rockabilly charm with modern polish. Whether crooning torch songs or revving up rock anthems, Isaak remains a timeless entertainer whose appeal spans decades and generations.
WED, DEC 10, 2025
Anita Graef is an acclaimed American cellist celebrated for her “superb artistry” (Pasadena Now) and performances that exude “high energy and polish” (WQXR). Having graced stages like Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall and the Dame Myra Hess Memorial Concert Series, she seamlessly bridges classical traditions with contemporary works. As Artistic Director of the Juliani Ensemble and the Tallgrass Chamber Music Festival, Graef is deeply committed to musical outreach and education. Her accolades include the 2022 Gheens Young Artist Award and the 2021 American Prize. Join us for an evening showcasing her expressive depth and technical mastery.
FOSTEK HALL
FRI, JAN 16, 2026
7:00PM
GENERAL ADMISSION: $41
* $6 Box Office Fee is Included in Pricing
Join us for an inspiring evening of jazz as the Virginia Tech Jazz Ensemble and the Patrick Henry High School Jazz Band share the stage at Jefferson Center. The Virginia Tech Jazz Ensemble, the flagship group of the university's jazz studies program, performs advanced big band literature, emphasizing works by leading contemporary composers and student arrangers . The Patrick Henry High School Jazz Band, under the direction of Mr. Alex Schmitt, is part of a comprehensive band program recognized for excellence in performance and community engagement . This collaborative concert showcases the talents of both ensembles, celebrating the vibrant jazz education in our region.
SHAFTMAN
PERFORMANCE HALL
WED, MAR 4, 2026
7:00PM
GENERAL ADMISSION: $10
Sam Bush, known as the “King of Newgrass,” is a pioneering force in progressive bluegrass and a genre-defying mandolin virtuoso. A founding member of the legendary New Grass Revival, Bush has spent decades blending traditional Appalachian roots with rock, jazz, and funk influences to create a sound all his own. With his boundless energy, technical brilliance, and infectious stage presence, Bush delivers performances that are both musically masterful and wildly entertaining. Whether playing blistering instrumentals or heartfelt ballads, he brings a spirit of innovation and joy that continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
Experience the artistry of Raul Midón, a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and guitarist renowned for his seamless fusion of jazz, soul, Latin, and folk influences. Blind since infancy, Midón has crafted a distinctive sound characterized by his percussive guitar techniques, emotive vocals, and innovative "mouth trumpet" solos. His latest album, Lost & Found, showcases his introspective songwriting and musical versatility. Having collaborated with legends like Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, and Bill Withers, Midón's live performances are celebrated for their musical precision and heartfelt expression. Don't miss this opportunity to witness a true creative genius in an intimate setting.
FOSTEK HALL
FRI, MAY 15, 2026
8:00PM
GENERAL ADMISSION: $41
* $6 Box Office Fee is Included in Pricing
WED, SEP 10 – MICHAEL MAYO
FRI, SEP 26 – TODD MARCUS QUINTET
SAT, SEP 27 – SHADOWS OF THE 60S: THE SUPREME GIRLS OF MOTOWN
WED, OCT 1 – BÉLA FLECK, EDMAR CASTAÑEDA, ANTONIO SANCHEZ TRIO
FRI, OCT 3 – SUGARAY RAYFORD
FRI, OCT 10 – RICKY SKAGGS
SAT, OCT 11 – TUMBAO WITH JSTOP LATIN SOUL & BIG LICK LATIN UNDERGROUND
THU, NOV 6 – GREENSKY BLUEGRASS
SUN, NOV 23 – MOLLY TUTTLE WITH CECILIA CASTLEMAN & BIRDTALKER
SUN, DEC 7 – SQUIRREL NUT ZIPPERS: CHRISTMAS CARAVAN
WED, DEC 10 – CHRIS ISAAK
SAT, DEC 13 – BARTER PLAYERS' I WANT A HIPPOPOTAMUS FOR CHRISTMAS
FRI, JAN 16 – ANITA GRAEF
SAT, JAN 17 – WALTER SMITH III
FRI, FEB 6 – BARTER PLAYERS' ALICE IN WONDERLAND
WED, FEB 25 – TUBA SKINNY
WED, MAR 4 – VIRGINIA TECH JAZZ ENSEMBLE & PATRICK HENRY JAZZ BAND
THU, MAR 5 – NICOLE ZURAITIS
SAT, MAR 21 – SAM BUSH
TUE, APR 14 – LITTLE FEAT
SAT, APR 25 – WYNTON MARSALIS & JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA
FRI, MAY 15 – RAUL MIDÓN
FRI, MAY 22 – RAVI COLTRANE
SAT, MAY 30 – BRIAN CHARETTE
Season subscribers are able to purchase tickets to Jefferson Center Presents events before they are on sale to the general public.
You’ll enjoy the same seats for every show in your Jefferson Center subscription, plus first chance to renew them next season. If you want to change the location of your seat, your request will receive priority consideration.
You’ll receive invitations to Jefferson Center events exclusively for season ticket holders and donors.
Subscribers receive replacement tickets for lost or misplaced tickets at no extra charge.
If you can’t make a performance, donate your tickets back to Jefferson Center. Please return your tickets at least one business day prior to the performance you cannot attend.
See amazing performances and support the arts in your community!
TUE, APR 14 – LITTLE FEAT
LOGE $410 FRI, OCT 3 – SUGARAY RAYFORD FRI, OCT 10 – RICKY SKAGGS SUN, NOV 23 – MOLLY TUTTLE WITH CECILIA CASTLEMAN & BIRDTALKER SUN, DEC 7 – SQUIRREL NUT ZIPPERS
WED, OCT 1 – BÉLA FLECK, EDMAR
ANTONIO SANCHEZ TRIO SAT, APR 25 – WYNTON MARSALIS & JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA FRI, MAY 22 – RAVI COLTRANE
WED, SEP 10 – MICHAEL MAYO
FRI, SEP 26 – TODD MARCUS QUINTET
SAT, JAN 17 – WALTER SMITH III
WED, FEB 25 – TUBA SKINNY
THU, MAR 5 – NICOLE ZURAITIS
SAT, MAY 30 – BRIAN CHARETTE
The Harry & Lavon Webb Education Center is the heart of Jefferson Center’s community outreach, providing transformative music education experiences throughout the year. Home to Music Lab, the program offers after-school classes, private lessons, and a variety of camps and workshops for students of all ages and skill levels.
The Center also hosts masterclasses led by world-class artists performing on our stages—giving local students rare, hands-on opportunities to learn directly from professional musicians. Through these programs, Jefferson Center nurtures creativity, builds confidence, and inspires the next generation of artists and arts appreciators.
Donors who give $100 or more annually receive early access to purchase tickets. Donate today and treat yourself to the best available seats in the house. Donors will be able to purchase tickets beginning July 14, two weeks before tickets go on sale to the public on July 29!