Pepperdine Center for the Arts 2023-2024 Season Brochure

DEAR PATRONS,

On behalf of all of us at the Lisa Smith Wengler Center for the Arts, it is my great pleasure to share our 2023–2024 season of performances and exhibitions with you.

Each year, we bring you an innovative, unique, entertaining, and diverse program of exceptional performances and museum exhibitions. The dancers, actors, musicians, and acrobats that come to Pepperdine have a wide variety of talents and backgrounds; what they all have in common is that they need you. Your presence makes our live performances possible. Join us this season and experience the collective effervescence that can only happen at a live performance at an intimate venue.

Whether this is your first time picking up one of our brochures or you are a familiar face here at Pepperdine, please know you are welcome here and we are grateful for your presence and support.

See you soon at the Center for the Arts!

Sincerely,

Rebecca Carson Managing Director

Rebecca Carson and Lisa Smith Wengler at Smothers Theatre

Photo credit: Keith Berson

Pictured below: Cirque Mechanics in Zephyr: A Whirlwind of Circus

Photo credit: Kirk Marsh

Pictured on cover: MOMIX: Alice

Photo credit: Sharen Bradford

CONTENTS

FAN FAVORITES

5 Sheena Easton

6 The Righteous Brothers

8 John Tesh

9 Leo Kottke

12 Richie Furay

RECITAL SERIES

2 Andrew von Oeyen, piano

4 Diana Adamyan, violin

7 Young Concert Artists on Tour

10 Eleni Katz, bassoon

12 SooBeen Lee, violin

CLASSICAL CROSSOVER

7 Time for Three

11 Chad Lawson

STARS OF STAGE AND SCREEN

3 On Broadway

5 The Queen’s Cartoonists Holiday Hurrah

6 Forbidden Broadway: Next Generation

8 The Complete History of Comedy (Abridged)

8 John Tesh

9 Ann Hampton Callaway Sings the ’70s

12 Animaniacs in Concert

DANCE AND SPECTACLE

3 Cirque Mechanics in Zephyr—A Whirlwind of Circus

7 Versa-Style Dance Company

8 JIG, a Trinity Irish Dance Company Production

9 MOMIX: Alice

FAMILY FUN

3 Cirque Mechanics in Zephyr: A Whirlwind of Circus

5 The Queen’s Cartoonists Holiday Hurrah

7 Time for Three

11 Dinosaur World Live

11 The Boy Who Cried Wolf

POP/ROCK

4 Veronica Swift

5 Sheena Easton

6 The Righteous Brothers

9 Leo Kottke

12 Richie Furay

FOLK/COUNTRY

6 The Righteous Brothers

9 Ann Hampton Callaway Sings the ’70s

10 Trailblazing Women of Country: A Tribute to Patsy, Loretta, and Dolly

12 Richie Furay

JAZZ/BLUES/STANDARDS

3 When You Wish Upon a Star: A Jazz Tribute to 100 Years of Disney

4 Veronica Swift

5 säje

8 John Tesh

5

9

Frederick R. Weisman Museum of Art 13 Student Productions

AN EVENING WITH TED GRUSSING: THE WONDERS OF SEDONA AND NORTHERN ARIZONA

Join us for an evening of photography with Ted Grussing (JD ’74). See the wonders of Sedona and Northern Arizona—the volcanoes, mountains, red rock canyons, and rivers to intimate wildlife moments—as captured through Grussing’s lens. tedgrussing.com

Friday, September 22, 2023, 7:30 pm

$5-$10 | Smothers Theatre

ANDREW VON OEYEN, PIANO

Hailed worldwide for his elegant and insightful interpretations, balanced artistry, and brilliant technique, Andrew von Oeyen has established himself as one of the most captivating pianists of his generation. Von Oeyen’s critically acclaimed solo and concerto albums include the 2021 release of his third album for Warner Classics, Bach-Beethoven, which was selected as an Essential New Release by Gramophone magazine, topping streaming charts on various platforms. vonoeyen.com

Sunday, September 24, 2023, 2 pm

$30 | Raitt Recital Hall

Save 30% on the Recital Series: $115 for all five performances

Photography by Ted Grussing. Red Tail Aerial

Photo credit: Macro Borggreve

CIRQUE MECHANICS IN ZEPHYR: A WHIRLWIND OF CIRCUS

An emotive and exhilarating tale about the choices humans have made regarding our planet and its resources, Zephyr: A Whirlwind of Circus by Cirque Mechanics presents the unrelenting tug of war between man and nature in the name of progress. Cirque Mechanics quickly established itself as a premier American circus, with its unique approach to performance, inspiring storytelling, and innovative mechanical staging. Spectacle Magazine hailed it as “the greatest contribution to the American circus since Cirque du Soleil.” cirquemechanics.com/zephyr

Tuesday, October 3, 2023, 7:30 pm

$30–$60 | Smothers Theatre $30 for youth 17 and younger

ON BROADWAY

Featuring the best songs from the current New York City theatre season and sung by Broadway stars with a live band, On Broadway is an unforgettable night of music! The show features hits from long-running favorites like Chicago, The Book of Mormon, and Wicked, as well as more recent sensations Hamilton and SIX: The Musical. Cast to be announced later in the season.

Tuesday, October 10, 2023, 8 pm

$22.50–$50 | Smothers Theatre

On Broadway in Smothers Theatre, January 29, 2019

WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR: A JAZZ TRIBUTE TO 100 YEARS OF DISNEY

The National Jazz Museum in Harlem house band performs popular songs from your favorite Disney films such as Lady and the Tramp, Toy Story, and Mary Poppins as interpreted by fans such as Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, Dianne Reeves, and many more. “Someday My Prince Will Come,” “Everybody Wants to Be a Cat,” and “The Bare Necessities” are just a few of the iconic songs celebrated as we remember the impact of jazz on 100 years of Disney magic. This production is not affiliated with, sponsored, or authorized by The Walt Disney Company.

Thursday, October 12, 2023, 7:30 pm

$22.50–$50 | Smothers Theatre

$22.50 for youth 17 and younger

Photo credit: Kirk Marsh

Nalley photo credit: Scott Cherins Dobson photo credit: Arthi Krishnaswami

DIANA ADAMYAN, VIOLIN

Armenian-born Diana Adamyan is quickly gaining an international reputation as “one of the new generation’s most promising and gifted young concert soloists” (Violin Channel) after winning first prize at the 2018 Yehudi Menuhin International Competition and the 2020 Khachaturian Violin Competition. “With perfect harmonics and burning passion, from the first note of the Sibelius concerto, she played her way deep into the hearts of the audience” (Die Zeit).

Sunday, October 15, 2023, 2 pm

$30 | Raitt Recital Hall

Save 30% on the Recital Series: $115 for all five performances

VERONICA SWIFT

Having made her mark on the international jazz scene as one of the star vocalists of her era, Veronica Swift has expanded her style, establishing herself as a skilled rock and soul singer and a dynamic performer. “She has a miraculous voice, musical ability, and technique, as well as an innate gift for entertaining a crowd” (Wall Street Journal).

veronicaswift.com

Tuesday, October 17, 2023, 8 pm $40–$85 | Smothers Theatre

Photo credit: Z. Khachikyan

SÄJE

The GRAMMY-nominated vocal supergroup, säje, is the brainchild of vocalists/composers Sara Gazarek, Amanda Taylor, Johnaye Kendrick, and Erin Bentlage. The international sensation is renowned for its “silk-smooth vocal blend . . . heightened harmonic insight . . . [and] hair-trigger dynamic sensitivity.” (Nate Chinen, WBGO) “säje is blazing a new trail for female composers and performers in the jazz world.” (Micah Hendler, Forbes) sajevoices.com

Sunday, October 22, 2023, 7 pm

$22.50–$50 | Smothers Theatre

SHEENA EASTON

Sponsored by Anne Marie and Mitch Bredefeld

Two-time GRAMMY-winner Sheena Easton returns to Smothers for an evening of music and memories with her hits like "We've Got Tonight," "For Your Eyes Only," and "Almost Over You." Selling more than 20 million records worldwide, Easton was the first and only artist to have top five records on five major Billboard charts. sheenaeaston.com

Thursday, October 26, 2023, 8 pm $37.50–$75 | Smothers Theatre

THE QUEEN’S CARTOONISTS HOLIDAY HURRAH

Keenly aware of all things holiday oriented and completely ridiculous, musical ensemble The Queen’s Cartoonists have set out to find the best of the best (and best of the worse) holiday-related cartoons, films, and jazz. The show includes traditional holiday vocal numbers such as “White Christmas” and “Jingle Bells” paired with jazz arrangements and festive animated films. Wonder and laugh at the band’s take on the bizarre “Santa Claus Conquers the Martians”! Yule love it! thequeenscartoonists.com

Sunday, December 3, 2023, 5 pm

$22.50–$50 | Smothers Theatre

$22.50 for youth 17 and younger

Photo credit: Lauren Desberg

Photo credit: Jamie Jung

THE RIGHTEOUS BROTHERS BILL MEDLEY AND BUCKY HEARD

Sponsored by Ellen and Doug Weitman

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame duo the Righteous Brothers topped the charts for four decades. Now, Bill Medley joins forces with one of the most versatile vocalists in America, Bucky Heard, to bring the Righteous Brothers back to the stage. This concert experience features a string of their biggest number one hits, including "You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’," "Soul and Inspiration," "Unchained Melody," the GRAMMY-winning Dirty Dancing theme "The Time of My Life," and much more! righteousbrothers.com

Thursday, January 18, 2024, 8 pm

$47.50–$95 | Smothers Theatre

FORBIDDEN BROADWAY: THE NEXT GENERATION

A New York Times Critics Pick, Forbidden Broadway is a fall-down funny, satirical roast of more than 30 Broadway hits featuring outrageous costumes, silly spoofs of the songs you know by heart, and madcap impressions by a stellar cast! With newer parodies from Hamilton, Dear Evan Hansen, and Moulin Rouge, it’s never been more fun poking fun at your favorite musicals and stars!

Saturday, January 20, 2024, 8 pm

$25–$55 | Smothers Theatre

Photo credit: Carol Rosegg

YOUNG CONCERT ARTISTS ON TOUR

Young Concert Artists (YCA) musicians are the leaders of the future—stars who combine world-class talent with creative vision to bring new reach and relevance to the art form. For more than 60 years YCA has discovered extraordinary young musicians, providing them with the support, clarity, and confidence to tell their stories, as well as the tools, opportunities, and infrastructure to take their careers to the highest level. The artists featured in Malibu include Chinese violinist Lun Li, Danish cellist Jonathan Swensen, Spanish/Dutch pianist Albert Cano Smit, American tenor Daniel McGrew, and American bass-baritone Joseph Parrish. yca.org

Sunday, January 21, 2024, 2 pm

$30 | Raitt Recital Hall

Save 30% on the Recital Series: $115 for all five performances

VERSA-STYLE DANCE COMPANY

Versa-Style Dance Company is “Los Angeles’ best dance troupe for hip-hop empowerment” (LA Weekly). The group’s latest production, Freemind Freestyle, consists of high-energy, unadulterated hip-hop movement that explores and pushes the boundaries of the origins and roots of street vernacular dances such as locking, popping, hip-hop, and krump. Audiences will gain a new appreciation for hip-hop dance culture and will be vividly immersed into the depth and beauty that unites us all.

versastyledance.org

Saturday, January 27, 2024, 8 pm

$22.50–$45 | Smothers Theatre

TIME FOR THREE

Bonded by an uncommon blend of instruments and vocals, violinists Charles Yang and Nick Kendall and double bassist Ranaan Meyer have found a unique voice of expression. To experience Time For Three live is to hear the various eras, styles, and traditions of Western music fold in on themselves and emerge anew. tf3.com

Thursday, January 30, 2024, 7:30 pm

$22.50–$45 | Smothers Theatre

$22.50 for youth 17 and younger

Photo credit: George Simian Photography

Photo credit: Lauren Desberg

THE COMPLETE HISTORY OF COMEDY (ABRIDGED)

Sponsored by Mary and Tom Hawkins

They’ve skewered history, the Bible, and the world’s most celebrated playwright. Now, the Reduced Shakespeare Company tackles the subject it was born to reduce. From the highbrow to the low, The Complete History of Comedy (Abridged) covers comedy through the ages. WARNING! Side effects may include uncontrollable milking and painful running gags.

CONTENT ADVISORY: In the spirit of Shakespeare’s comedies, RSC shows contain comic depictions of violence, mild innuendo, bawdy language, and the occasional rude word. All children (and parents) are different, so we’ve chosen to rate our shows PG-13: Pretty Good If You’re Thirteen.

reducedshakespeare.com

Friday, February 2, 2024, 8 pm

$25-$55 | Smothers Theatre

JOHN TESH

BIG BAND LIVE

Sponsored by the Flamminio family

Internationally renowned pianist John Tesh has enjoyed six music Emmys, two GRAMMY nominations, and four gold records in his three-decade-long career. Join us for an evening of songs and stories as Tesh reflects on his recent battle with cancer and gives an inspiring meditation on persistence, grit, purpose, and the importance of faith and family.

tesh.com

Saturday, February 3, 2024, 8 pm

$30–$65 | Smothers Theatre

JIG, A TRINITY IRISH DANCE COMPANY PRODUCTION

Founded in 1990 by creative force and choreographer Mark Howard, Trinity Irish Dance Company (TIDC) is a uniquely Irish American company that was the birthplace of progressive Irish dance, an innovative movement genre that “ushered in a new era for Irish step dance” (Chicago Tribune). With a unique blend of uncompromising power and grace, TIDC continues to carve new traditions for an ancient and beloved art form.

trinityirishdancecompany.com

Tuesday, February 6, 2024, 8 pm

$25–$55 | Smothers Theatre

Photo credit: Connie Selleca

Photo credit: Lois Greenfield

LEO KOTTKE

Described by the Los Angeles Times as "an American legend in the guitar world," two-time GRAMMY-nominee Leo Kottke has set the highest standards for acoustic finger-picked guitar. Kottke's music draws on blues, jazz, and folk influences, and he's known for his innovative playing style on 6- and 12-string guitars, as well as his original interpretations of genre classics such as "June Bug," "Pamela Brown," "Julie's House," and "Jack Gets Up." leokottke.com

Thursday, February 8, 2024, 8 pm

$20–$40 | Smothers Theatre

MOMIX: ALICE

Travel down the rabbit hole MOMIX-style with Moses Pendleton's newest creation, Alice, inspired by Alice in Wonderland. As Alice’s body grows and shrinks and grows again, Pendleton’s dancers extend themselves by means of props, ropes, and other dancers. In an endless search for another gravity, Pendleton combines athletic dance, riveting music, outrageous costumes, inventive props, and pure talent to create an entertaining multimedia experience that will surprise, enchant, and astonish. As Alice falls down the rabbit hole and experiences every kind of transformation, so will you. momix.com

Wednesday, February 28, 2024, 8 pm

$32.50–$65 | Smothers Theatre

ANN HAMPTON CALLAWAY SINGS THE ’70S

Don’t miss the Tony-nominated Broadway star and platinum-selling singer/songwriter for a night of rousing and beautiful classics with her all-star trio. Callaway covers hits from the great songwriters of the time—Carole King, James Taylor, and Joni Mitchell—and puts her own stamp on the unforgettable songs from the Carpenters, Linda Ronstadt, Barbra Streisand, and other beloved singers of the decade. “For sheer vocal beauty, no contemporary singer matches Ms. Callaway” (Stephen Holden, New York Times).

Saturday, March 2, 2024, 8 pm

$22.50–$50 | Smothers Theatre

Photo credit: Jake Cudek

Photo credit: Sharen Bradford

Photo credit: Bill Westmoreland

ELENI KATZ, BASSOON

Hailed for her virtuosity and vibrant musical spirit, bassoonist Eleni Katz has established herself as a prominent soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player. Katz is a winner of the 2022 Concert Artist Guild Competition and has performed with several of the nation’s top ensembles, including the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, the Sarasota Orchestra, and as a member of the New World Symphony. Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner will accompany Katz on the piano. elenikatzbassoon.com

Sunday, March 3, 2024, 2 pm

$30 | Raitt Recital Hall

Save 30% on the Recital Series: $115 for all five performances

TRAILBLAZING WOMEN OF COUNTRY: A TRIBUTE TO PATSY, LORETTA, AND DOLLY

Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, and Dolly Parton revolutionized country music's rich storytelling tradition to offer their uniquely empowered—and unmistakably female—perspective on issues faced by women of their day. Their chart-topping hits and record-breaking sales wove threads of contemporary womanhood throughout the tapestry of country music, resulting in unprecedented success and earning each a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Trailblazing Women of Country will entertain and inspire audiences during this pivotal moment in our nation's history, featuring soloists Miko Marks, Country Music Television's 2022 Next Woman of Country, and Nashville-based singer Kristina Train, supported by a five-member all-female band.

Tuesday, March 5, 2024, 8 pm

$25–$55 | Smothers Theatre

Photo credit: Christina Cutts

Marks photo credit: Amanda Lopez Train photo credit: Fairlight Hubbard

DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE

Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live with roarsome fun for the whole family! Discover a prehistoric time of astonishing dinosaurs and meet a host of impressive and remarkably lifelike creatures, including a Tyrannosaurus rex, Triceratops, and Segnosaurus. A special meet and greet after the show offers our brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend. dinosaurworldlive.com

Friday, March 8, 2024, 7:30 pm

$20–$40 | Smothers Theatre

$20 for youth 17 and younger

CHAD LAWSON

As a world-renowned pianist with multiple number one releases, Chad Lawson modernizes piano for the next generation through his bold interpretation of the classics—electronic loops and atmospherics resonate with electronic dance music fans and neoclassical traditionalists alike. With his latest album, Lawson took an honest look at his career and found that being true to himself was more important than any accolade. His reflections are inspirational, brave, and most of all—freeing. chadlawson.com

Wednesday, March 20, 2024, 8 pm

$25–$50 | Smothers Theatre

THE BOY WHO CRIED WOLF FROM TUTTI FRUTTI AND YORK THEATRE ROYAL

Introducing the magic of theatre to young audiences, The Boy Who Cried Wolf is an inspired take on the familiar Aesop fable that spins the tale of Silas the shepherd boy. While missing the fun of the annual knitting competition in town when he reluctantly watches the family sheep herd on the mountain, his lonesome boredom leads to trouble as he discovers a valuable lesson that “nobody believes a liar, even when they’re telling the truth.” holdenarts.org/boywhocriedwolf

Saturday, April 13, 2024, 11 am and 1 pm

$15–$30 | Smothers Theatre

$15 for youth 17 and younger

Photo credit: Robert Day

Photo credit: Michael Yu

SOOBEEN LEE, VIOLIN

Praised by the Washington Post for her “poised presence, a luxurious sound, spot-on intonation, and a bow arm that surely will be the envy of her peers,” violinist SooBeen Lee has already appeared as a soloist with every major Korean orchestra, including the Seoul and Busan Philharmonics and Korean Broadcasting System Symphony Orchestra. “Her superb technique and musical sensitivities would credit a musician twice her age” (Washington Post).

Sunday, April 14, 2024, 2 pm

$30 | Raitt Recital Hall

Save 30% on the Recital Series: $115 for all five performances

ANIMANIACS IN CONCERT

Join the leading voice cast of Animaniacs—the iconic animated Warner Bros. series created and produced by Steven Spielberg—for a “zany, animany and totally insaney” evening as they perform the world-famous songs backed by projections from the beloved cartoon TV series. The live show celebrates the creative inspiration behind the songs with lots of audience interaction and never-before-told behind-the-scenes insider stories shared by iconic voice actors like Randy Rogel, Rob Paulsen (Yakko), and Maurice LaMarche (The Brain) to some of the most unforgettable characters in the history of animation. animaniacslive.com

Friday, April 19, 2024, 8 pm

$25–$55 | Smothers Theatre

RICHIE FURAY

Richie Furay is an American luminary and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee. He is celebrated for pioneering country-rock as a founding member of the legendary and quintessential groups Buffalo Springfield, Poco, and the Souther-Hillman-Furay band. Fans will enjoy singing along with his hits, “For What It’s Worth,” “Heart of the Night,” and “Pickin’ Up the Pieces.” richiefuray.com

Saturday, April 20, 2024, 8 pm

$25–$50 | Smothers Theatre

Photo credit: Matt Dine

FREDERICK R. WEISMAN MUSEUM OF ART

Open Tuesday–Sunday, 11 am–5 pm, and one hour prior to most performances through intermission.

HILDUR ÁSGEIRSDÓTTIR JÓNSSON: INFINITE SPACE, SUBLIME HORIZONS

August 26–December 10, 2023

Hildur Ásgeirsdóttir Jónsson creates exquisite large-scale paintings on a loom, in a practice that blurs the boundaries between painting and weaving, fine art and craft. Born and raised in Iceland, Jónsson has spent the last 30 years in Cleveland, Ohio, where she has made increasingly ambitious work that toes the line between abstraction and representation, with deep connections to Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes. Bringing together Jónsson’s largest and most labor-intensive paintings yet, alongside smaller paintings, drawings, and watercolors, this will be the artist’s first West Coast exhibition and her first solo museum exhibition in nearly a decade.

SOLO EXHIBITIONS: MAKOTO FUJIMURA AND JENI SPOTA C.

Opens January 2024

For the first time in more than 20 years, the Weisman Museum presents simultaneous solo exhibitions by two artists working in distinct but related modes. A renowned artist, writer, and public speaker, Makoto Fujimura paints in a traditional Japanese nihonga style, using precious minerals and pigments to create intensely layered, luminous canvases that invite slow, meditative looking. That slowness is crucial to Fujimura’s notion of “culture care,” which emphasizes art’s role in our collective journey toward hope, healing, and redemption.

Also interested in art’s ability to connect us with the divine, Jeni Spota C. has produced a body of work that obsessively reworks Giotto’s 14th-century painting The Last Judgment, with thick layers of paint that abstract the many figures crammed into each work. This exhibition brings together a selection of Spota C.’s paintings since 2009, which explore the continued power of Renaissance imagery and Biblical themes in the present day.

Major exhibitions are held in the Gregg G. Juarez Gallery and Ron Wilson-Designer Gallery in the Frederick R. Weisman Museum of Art. Hildur Ásgeirsdóttir Jónsson: Infinite Space, Sublime Horizons is supported by a grant from the Pasadena Art Alliance.

STUDIO ART THESIS EXHIBITION

Opens April 2024

Organized in close collaboration with faculty and students, this exhibition features art by graduating seniors from the Seaver College Studio Art program.

ON LOCATION IN MALIBU: PAINTINGS BY THE CALIFORNIA ART CLUB

Opens May 2024

On Location in Malibu celebrates the continued vitality of California Impressionism and plein air painting by showcasing new paintings of Malibu created by contemporary members of the historic California Art Club. Inspired by the beauty and scenic diversity of Malibu’s canyons and beaches, this exhibition is the ninth in a triennial series organized since 1999. Works of art on view will be available for acquisition, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Frederick R. Weisman Museum of Art and the California Art Club, the oldest art association in the state.

The museum is always free and open to the public. For current hours or more information about exhibitions, programs, and accessibility, call 310.506.4851 or visit arts.pepperdine.edu/museum.

@weismanmuseumofart

Hildur Ásgeirsdóttir Jónsson, Double Rainbow #1, 2022, silk thread and dyes. Courtesy of the artist and Abattoir Gallery, Cleveland.

STUDENT PRODUCTIONS

The Pepperdine University Fine Arts Division presents The Mary Pickford-Stotsenberg performances

OPERA

The Flora L. Thornton Opera Program presents

The Merry Widow

Music by Franz Lehár

Libretto by Viktor Léon and Leo Stein

Keith Colclough, Director

With the Pepperdine University Orchestra

This light-hearted romantic comedy promises a fun night for all.

Lehár’s charming melodies have kept this operetta in the repertoire since its premiere in 1905, and it continues to be presented in German and in French and English translations. As the wealthy young widow Hannah Glawari ends her mourning and begins to look for a new husband, she rekindles an old flame with the Count Danilo Danilovitsch. However, her childhood sweetheart swears he will never tell Hannah he loves her, because he fears it would appear he is only interested in her fortune. Will these two lovers overcome their pride and find happiness together? Come join us to find out.

In English

Thursday, February 22, 2024, 7:30 pm

Saturday, February 24, 2024, 7:30 pm

$20

$10 for Pepperdine students

$16 for Pepperdine faculty and staff

Smothers Theatre

DANCE

Pepperdine Student Activities presents

Dance in Flight

Dance in Flight embodies the diversity and essence of Seaver College and the liberal arts tradition. For more than 30 years, Dance in Flight has provided a safe environment for emerging student dancers and choreographers to cultivate creativity, physical expression, and teamwork in a professional performing atmosphere. The company members come from a variety of dance backgrounds, interests, and fields of study. United by their passion for the art of movement, they are dedicated to presenting an impressive showcase of student artistry.

Thursday, March 14, 2024, 8 pm

Friday, March 15, 2024, 8 pm

Saturday, March 16, 2024, 2 pm and 8 pm

$20

$10 for Pepperdine students

$16 for Pepperdine faculty and staff

Smothers Theatre

MUSIC Free tickets to choir and orchestra concerts are available for Pepperdine students, faculty, and staff with ID.

Parkening Master Class

Christopher Parkening, Director

Saturday, September 23, 2023, 2 pm

Free | Raitt Recital Hall

Pepperdine Orchestra

Long-Tao Tang, Director featuring Andrew von Oeyen, piano

Thursday, September 28, 2023, 7:30 pm

$10 |Smothers Theatre

Pepperdine Chamber Choir

Ryan Board, Director

Friday, October 27, 2023, 7:30 pm

Free | Weisman Museum of Art

Pepperdine Jazz and Wind Ensembles

Long-Tao Tang and Vincent Trombetta, Directors

Monday, November 27, 2023, 7:30 pm

Free | Smothers Theatre

Pepperdine Choir and Orchestra Christmas Concert

Ryan Board and Long-Tao Tang, Directors

Thursday, December 7, 2023, 7:30 pm

$10 | Smothers Theatre

Parkening Master Class

Christopher Parkening, Director

Saturday, February 17, 2024, 2 pm

Free | Raitt Recital Hall

Pepperdine Wind Ensemble

Long-Tao Tang, Director

Tuesday, March 19, 2024, 7:30 pm

Free | Smothers Theatre

Pickford Ensemble

N. Lincoln Hanks, Director

Tuesday, April 9, 2024, 7:30 pm

Free | Lindhurst Theatre

Pepperdine Chamber Choir, Jazz Ensemble, and Wind Ensemble Concert

Ryan Board, Long-Tao Tang, and Vincent Trombetta, Directors

Sunday, April 14, 2024, 7 pm

Free | Smothers Theatre

Pepperdine Choir and Orchestra Masterworks Concert

Ryan Board and Long-Tao Tang, Directors

Thursday, April 18, 2024, 7:30 pm

$10 | Smothers Theatre

Please visit us online for more great student productions.

@pepperdinemusic

THEATRE DEPARTMENT SERIES

$48 for four events

This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing

By Finegan Kruckemeyer

Hollace

Starr, Director

Triplet sisters are left in the forest by their woodcutter father. From this fairytale beginning, three resolutions are made—one sister will walk one way, one the other, and the third will stay right where she is. Twenty years later, having circumnavigated the globe, fought vikings, crossed oceans, tamed wilds, and achieved greatness, the three meet again, as women.

Wednesday, September 27–Friday, September 29, 2023 7:30 pm

Saturday, September 30, 2023 11 am and 3 pm

$15

$10 for Pepperdine students

$12 for Pepperdine faculty and staff

Lindhurst Theatre

No late seating allowed. Join a talk back with the actors and director after the Wednesday, September 27 performance.

The Luciana and Daniel Forge Fall Musical The Music Man

Book, Music, and Lyrics by Meredith Wilson

Kelly Todd, Director

Ida Nicolosi, Music Director

Heralded as funny, warm, romantic and touching, The Music Man is classic musical theatre at its best. Meredith Wilson's six-time Tony Award–winning show has been entertaining audiences since 1957 and is a family-friendly story to be shared with every generation.

The Music Man follows fast-talking traveling salesman Harold Hill as he pulls into town to try and con the people of River City, Iowa, a traditional Midwestern town of the 1910s, full of a cast of wacky and wonderful citizens. Join us for a wonderful tale full of “76 trombones.”

Friday, November 10–Saturday, November 11, 2023, 7:30 pm

Sunday, November 12, 2023, 2 pm

Thursday, November 16–Friday, November 17, 2023, 7:30 pm

Saturday, November 18, 2023, 2 pm

$20

$10 for Pepperdine students

$16 for Pepperdine faculty and staff

Smothers Theatre

Gold, Platinum, and Diamond members of the Center for the Arts Guild are invited to a special backstage tour before the Thursday, November 16 performance.

Spring Lindhurst Production

To Be Announced

Nanci Carol Ruby, Director

At Pepperdine, the theatre is a public incubator for stories that ask fundamental questions about what it truly means to be human, created in the image of God, and living in the midst of an ever-changing and challenging world. Introspection and community connection are our most precious assets right now— and you can find a play that speaks to your spirit this spring in the Lindhurst Theatre. The third show in our 2023–2024 season will be announced this fall.

Tuesday, January 23–Friday, January 26, 2024, 7:30 pm Saturday, January 27, 2024, 2 pm and 7:30 pm

$15

$10 for Pepperdine students

$12 for Pepperdine faculty and staff

Lindhurst Theatre

No late seating allowed. Join a talk back with the actors and director after the Wednesday, January 24 performance.

The Tempest

By William Shakespeare

Cathy

Thomas-Grant, Director

Known as Shakespeare’s masterpiece and the last play that he ever wrote, The Tempest tells the story of loss, restoration, injury and healing, fault and forgiveness. Set on an enchanted island, a magician and his lovely daughter live with a motherless cub of a wicked witch along with spirits of the air, water, earth, and wind. A shipwreck and mighty winds carry a king, his son, a duke, and all of their entourage onto shore. Separated by the storm, these wandering souls bring laughter, love, and ultimately the reconciliation of a family torn apart by a political rebellion.

Wednesday, April 3–Friday, April 5, 2024, 7:30 pm

Saturday, April 6, 2024, 2 pm

$15

$10 for Pepperdine students

$12 for Pepperdine faculty and staff

Smothers Theatre

@pepperdinetheatre

The cast of Pepperdine’s production of H.M.S. Pinafore.

WITH GRATITUDE TO THE CENTER FOR

Chancellor’s Circle members help us achieve our mission of presenting an innovative, unique, entertaining, and diverse program of exceptional performances and museum exhibitions.

SUPPORT AND

Become a GUILD MEMBER with an ANNUAL GIFT OF $100 or more to provide critical program support.

You'll also receive:

Advance notification of new performances and exclusive presales

No ticket order or exchange fees

Invitations to special events and receptions

Recognition on theatre programs

Season parking pass ($150 membership level and above), plus additional benefits depending on membership level

At the Pepperdine Lisa Smith Wengler Center for the Arts, members make the difference. The Center for the Arts Guild and Chancellor’s Circle supply critical funding for all of our programming, including the popular ARTSReach program for schools, which provides free performances to schoolchildren, as well as master classes and workshops for Pepperdine students.

Ticket prices cover only a fraction of the costs of operating the Center for the Arts—your membership helps us to continue to bring you performances and exhibitions from around the country and around the world. Members enjoy a variety of unique benefits, including parking passes, behind-the-scenes tours, and meet and greets with guest artists.

C all 310.506.4594 or visit our website at arts.pepperdine.edu/support for more information.

Performance Sponsors

The Office of the Chancellor of Pepperdine University

Anne Marie and Mitch Bredefeld

Melanie and Richard Flamminio

Mary and Tom Hawkins

David Huenergardt*

Billie Milam Weisman

Lisa Smith Wengler

Behind the scenes with the Into the Woods Pepperdine student crew

ARTSReach coordinator, Carson Vandermade, reading to children at Family Art Day

Center for the Arts Guild members at the annual Holiday Boutique and Luncheon

Guitarist Pablo Sáinz-Villegas with Chancellor’s Circle members Richard and Melanie Flamminio

THE ARTS CHANCELLOR’S CIRCLE

SUBSCRIBE

Buy tickets to FOUR SHOWS or more and SAVE 10% on the best seats in the theatre. You'll also receive:

First access to tickets with exclusive presales

Ticket exchanges with no fees throughout the season

The best seats at the best price and first priority if new seats are added

Smothers Theatre

We are committed to the health and safety of our patrons and community members. Learn more about our health guidelines at arts.pepperdine.edu/visit.

TICKET INFORMATION

Box Office Hours

Tuesday–Friday, Noon–5 pm and two hours prior to most performances. Order now by visiting arts.pepperdine.edu or by calling 310.506.4522.

Times, dates, performers, venues, and prices are subject to change. For select shows, discounts are available for groups, Military, and Pepperdine faculty, staff, students, and alumni. Call for more information.

Supporting Sponsors

Debby and Andy Benton

Crest Associates

Lisa Freer

Alison and Dan Hodgkiss

Diane Reilly

Ellen and Doug Weitman

Gail and Jim Wilburn

Please Note: The use of stairs is required to access most seats. Accessible seats may be purchased through all sales channels. Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of theatre staff. Every patron requires a ticket, regardless of age.

Raitt Recital Hall

Contributing Sponsors

Shelley and Rick Bayer

G. Beverly Bergmann

Hannah and Tom Boundy

Sara and Sam Jackson

Barbara Vallone

Kathy and Lou Colombano

*in memoriam

@pepperdinecfa

SEPTEMBER 2023

22 An Evening with Ted Grussing: The Wonders of Sedona and Northern Arizona 23 Parkening Master Class 24 Andrew von Oeyen, piano

OCTOBER 2023

NOVEMBER 2023

10-18 Pepperdine Musical Theatre: The Music Man

27 Pepperdine Jazz and Wind Ensembles

DECEMBER 2023

3 The Queen's Cartoonists Holiday Hurrah

7 Pepperdine Choir and Orchestra Christmas Concert

JANUARY 2024 18

FEBRUARY 2024

2 The Complete History of Comedy (Abridged)

3 John Tesh: Big Band Live

6 JIG, a Trinity Irish Dance Company Production

8 Leo Kottke

17 Parkening Master Class

22, 24 Pepperdine Opera: The Merry Widow

28 MOMIX: Alice

MARCH 2024

2 Ann Hampton Callaway Sings the ’70s

3 Eleni Katz, bassoon

5 Trailblazing Women of Country: A Tribute to Patsy, Loretta, and Dolly

8 Dinosaur World Live

20 Chad Lawson

APRIL 2024

3-6 Pepperdine Theatre: The Tempest

9 Pickford Ensemble

13 The Boy Who Cried Wolf from tutti frutti and York Theatre Royal

14 SooBeen Lee, violin

14 Pepperdine Chamber Choir, Jazz and Wind Ensembles Concert

18 Pepperdine Choir and Orchestra Masterworks Concert

19 Animaniacs in Concert

20 Richie Furay

WE’RE HERE TO HELP!

Do you have special needs? Please let us know in advance how we might help, and we’ll provide reasonable accommodations to those needing special assistance. For accessible seating, please advise the Box Office when purchasing tickets. Assisted listening devices are available at the Box Office.