2025–26 SEASON
Ailey II
An Evening with Garrison Keillor
Charo
Cirque Mechanics: Tilt!
Colin Hay
Jake Shimabukuro
John Jorgenson Quintet with Frank Vignola
Kat Edmonson
Les Ballets Africains
Noche Flamenca
On Broadway
Pablo Sáinz-Villegas, Spanish Night
Reduced Shakespeare Company: All the Great Books (abridged)
Sounds of Laurel Canyon:
A Back to the Garden Story Concert
Women of Americana:
A Celebration of American Music
PLUS MANY MORE
DEAR FRIENDS,
We’ve got what you’re looking for this year. Familiar faces and the songs you know by heart. Discovery—new energy and new ideas. Spectacle. Joy. Wonder. Presence. Belonging. Connection. Laughter. True quality time with the people you love, with the connection that comes from shared experience. Collective effervescence—where you can feel the energy swirl between artist and audience. Good conversations in the lobby and on the drive home. Memories that last for months and years after the applause has faded away.
We pride ourselves in having a little bit of something for everyone at the Lisa Smith Wengler Center for the Arts. Our mission is to present an innovative, unique, entertaining, and diverse program of exceptional performances and museum exhibitions. Whatever you are looking for this year, we’re confident you will find it in this brochure and in the delightful performances and exhibitions it presents.
It’s been a delight to handpick these performances and exhibitions for you. Our friendly staff is always happy to help you discover your new favorite Center for the Arts event.
Thank you for your support of the arts. We hope to see you soon!
Sincerely,
Rebecca Carson Managing Director
2 Tommy Emmanuel
2 Sounds of Laurel Canyon: A Back to the Garden Story Concert
5 Colin Hay
7 Jake Shimabukuro
9 An Evening with Garrison Keillor
10 Charo
4 Cirque Mechanics: Tilt!
6 123 Andrés
10 Les Ballets Africains
11 Hare and Tortoise produced by Tutti Frutti Productions
VIRTUOSI
2 Tommy Emmanuel 3 Janice Carissa, piano
4 Greek Rebetiko Trio
5 Noam Pikelny and Friends
7 Pablo Sáinz-Villegas, Spanish Night
7 Jake Shimabukuro
7 Valentin Kovalev, saxophone
8 John Jorgenson
9 Leland Ko, cello 10 Charo 12 Adé Williams, violin DANCE/SPECTACLE
3 Noche Flamenca
4 Cirque Mechanics: Tilt!
9 Ailey II
10 Les Ballets Africains
STARS OF STAGE AND SCREEN
5 On Broadway
6 Reduced Shakespeare Company in All the Great Books (abridged)
9 An Evening with Garrison Keillor 10 Charo
SINGER/SONGWRITER/FOLK
2 Sounds of Laurel Canyon: A Back to the Garden Story Concert
3 Ryanhood
5 Colin Hay
8 Kat Edmonson
12 Women of Americana: A Celebration of American Music
GLOBAL JAZZ AND BLUES
4 Greek Rebetiko Trio
7 Pablo Sáinz-Villegas, Spanish Night
8 Kat Edmonson
10 Charo
11 Kings Return
MUSIC/GREATEST HITS
2 Sounds of Laurel Canyon: A Back to the Garden Story Concert
4 Greek Rebetiko Trio
5 Colin Hay
5 On Broadway
8 John Jorgenson
9 An Evening with Garrison Keillor 10 Charo
TOMMY EMMANUEL, CGP
Sponsored by Ellen and Doug Weitman
Tommy Emmanuel, fresh off his 2024 Grammy win and long hailed as one of Australia’s most iconic guitarists, returns to share his extraordinary talent on stage.
Known for a dynamic style that weaves together pop, jazz, blues, gospel, classical, flamenco, and traditional aboriginal influences, Emmanuel continues to captivate audiences across the globe. He remains one of only four musicians ever honored with the title of Certified Guitar Player by the legendary Chet Atkins. With his signature energy and soul-stirring performance, Emmanuel delivers a musical experience that’s as inspiring as it is unforgettable. tommyemmanuel.com
Thursday, August 21, 2025, 8 pm
$30.50–$58 | Smothers Theatre
SOUNDS OF LAUREL CANYON: A BACK TO THE GARDEN STORY CONCERT
Sponsored by Anne Marie and Mitch Bredefeld
Experience the magic of A Back to the Garden Story Concert, celebrating the music and spirit of Laurel Canyon in the late ’60s and early ’70s. Through unforgettable songs and storytelling, the show honors artists like Joni Mitchell, the Byrds, Carole King, the Doors, Jackson Browne, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, and more. The all-star band features Jim “Cactus” Soldi, Marc Intravaia, Rick Nash, Larry Grano, Sharon Whyte, Danielle Tucker, Calman Hart, and storyteller
Robert John Hughes in a heartfelt tribute to the era that shaped a generation.
back-to-the-garden.net
Thursday, September 18, 2025, 8 pm
$28–$53 | Smothers Theatre
JANICE CARISSA, PIANO
Indonesian pianist Janice Carissa brings a dynamic blend of virtuosity and heartfelt expression to the stage. A Gilmore Young Artist and Juilliard graduate, she has performed at Carnegie Hall, the Sydney Opera House, and with major orchestras across the US. Critics have praised her for the “multicolored highlights of a mature pianist” (Philadelphia Inquirer). Recognized for her bold repertoire and expressive style, Carissa continues to earn acclaim for her captivating performances.
janicecarissa.com
Sunday, September 21, 2025, 2 pm
Save 30% on the Recital Series; $92 for all four performances.
$33 | Raitt Recital Hall
RYANHOOD
Ryanhood, the dynamic acoustic duo from Tucson by way of Boston, deliver a high-energy blend of folk, rock, and pop that’s as heartfelt as it is infectious. Formed by Cameron Hood and Ryan Green, the pair has shared stages with acts like Jason Mraz, Train, and American Authors, earning a national following through more than 800 performances across the country. With rich harmonies, masterful guitar work, and an undeniable onstage chemistry, Ryanhood crafts songs that speak to both the head and the heart—turning every show into a shared experience of joy, connection, and storytelling. ryanhood.com
Saturday, September 27, 2025, 8 pm
$23–$43 | Smothers Theatre
NOCHE FLAMENCA
Founded in 1993 by Martín Santangelo and Bessie Award–winning dancer Soledad Barrio, Noche Flamenca is celebrated worldwide for its deeply emotional, authentic flamenco performances. This performance features Searching for Goya, a bold and theatrical tribute to the Spanish painter, blending dance, music, and storytelling in a series of powerful vignettes that reflect flamenco’s raw intensity and cultural roots. soledadbarrioandnocheflamenca.com
Thursday, October 2, 2025, 7:30 pm
$30.50–$58 | Smothers Theatre
Photo credit: Jim Coleman
GREEK REBETIKO TRIO
Formed in Boston in 2014, the Greek Rebetiko Trio shares the rich heritage of rebetiko—often called the “blues of Greece”—through soulful vocals and spirited instrumentation. With more then 200 performances across the US, including top folk festivals like Montana and Lowell, the trio has earned acclaim for its storytelling, musicianship, and cross-cultural connection. Its sold-out shows in Los Angeles and collaborations with institutions like the University of California, Los Angeles and Berklee College of Music have made the trio a standout ensemble bringing Greek musical traditions to diverse audiences nationwide.
Saturday, October 4, 2025, 7:30 pm
$23–$38 | Smothers Theatre
CIRQUE MECHANICS: TILT!
Sponsored by Mary and Tom Hawkins
Cirque Mechanics, renowned for its inventive fusion of acrobatics and mechanical marvels, invites audiences to experience its latest spectacle, Tilt! A circus thrill ride set to premiere in fall 2025, this show transports spectators to the backstage of an imaginative theme park, unveiling the lives of the carnies and operators who keep the thrills alive. cirquemechanics.com/events/tilt
Tuesday, October 7, 2025, 7:30 pm
Discounts for youth 17 and younger.
$33–$63 | Smothers Theatre
COLIN HAY
Sponsored by Ellen and Doug Weitman
Colin Hay returns to the stage with the signature charm, humor, and heart that have made his live shows so beloved. Best known as the front man of Men At Work—creators of timeless hits like “Down Under,” “Who Can It Be Now?” and “Overkill”—Hay has also carved out an acclaimed solo career marked by introspective songwriting and soaring melodies. colinhay.com
Thursday, October 9, 2025, 8 pm
$58–$78 | Smothers Theatre
NOAM PIKELNY AND FRIENDS
ON BROADWAY
Sponsored by Alison and Dan Hodgkiss and Hodgkiss Insurance Brokers
Featuring standout songs from the latest New York City theatre season, On Broadway delivers an electrifying evening of live music straight from the heart of Broadway. The show highlights beloved classics like Chicago, The Book of Mormon, and Wicked, alongside modern blockbusters like Hamilton and SIX: The Musical. Cast to be announced later in the season.
Tuesday, October 14, 2025, 7:30 pm
$30.50–$58 | Smothers Theatre
Noam Pikelny, a founding member of the Grammy-winning Punch Brothers, has redefined what it means to be a modern banjoist. Widely regarded as one of the finest players of his generation, Pikelny brings a singular blend of technical mastery, dry wit, and creative daring to everything he touches. His solo release, Universal Favorite, marked a bold step forward—an intimate, unaccompanied exploration of both original works and carefully chosen covers. noampikelny.com
Friday, October 17, 2025, 8 pm
$30.50–$58 | Smothers Theatre
REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY IN ALL THE GREAT BOOKS (ABRIDGED)
The Reduced Shakespeare Company presents its signature wit and whirlwind energy to All the Great Books (abridged)—a 98-minute romp through the literary canon like you’ve never seen before. From Confucius to Thoreau, Swift to Tennyson, no classic is safe from this fast-paced, irreverent joyride. Whether you’re a literature buff or you just vaguely remember your summer reading list, this hilarious performance tackles everything you didn’t quite get around to reading in school, delivered with the RSC’s trademark comic chaos. Buckle up—this is one wild ride through the world’s greatest (and shortest) stories. reducedshakespeare.com
Thursday, October 23, 2025, 7:30 pm
$28–$53 | Smothers Theatre
123 ANDRÉS
Latin Grammy-winning duo 123 Andrés— composed of Andrés and Christina—bring their infectious energy and vibrant sound to the stage with a show that gets everyone clapping, singing, and moving. Blending Spanish, English, and American Sign Language, the duo’s performances celebrate Latinx culture while creating a joyful, inclusive experience for audiences of all ages. With playful rhythms and educational lyrics, 123 Andrés makes learning feel like a dance party. 123andres.com
Sunday, October 26, 2025, 3 pm
Discounts for youth 17 and younger.
$18–$33 | Smothers Theatre
Photo credit: Dario Trevino
PABLO SÁINZ-VILLEGAS, SPANISH NIGHT
Sponsored by the Flamminio family
Internationally celebrated as the “master of the guitar,” Pablo Sáinz-Villegas redefines Spanish classical guitar through his expressive artistry and bold spirit. For this intimate concert, he explores the diverse sounds of the Americas, showcasing the passion, color, and virtuosity that have made him one of the most acclaimed guitarists of his generation. pablosainzvillegas.com
Thursday, October 30, 2025, 7:30 pm
$35.50–$68 | Smothers Theatre
JAKE SHIMABUKURO
Sponsored by Asia Fernandez
VALENTIN KOVALEV, SAXOPHONE
Siberian-born saxophonist Valentin Kovalev is a bold new voice in classical music, known for his dynamic style and global perspective. A recent winner of the Naumburg Saxophone Competition and Concert Artists Guild’s Audience Award, he has performed to acclaim across North America, Europe, and Asia—including a sold-out Carnegie Hall debut. With training in Russia, France, and the US, Kovalev combines virtuosic talent with a fresh, engaging presence that’s inspiring audiences both onstage and online.
valentinkovalev.com
Sunday, November 9, 2025, 2 pm
Save 30% on the Recital Series; $92 for all four performances.
$33 | Raitt Recital Hall
Jake Shimabukuro has redefined the possibilities of the ukulele with his genre-bending style and electrifying performances. Whether reimagining rock anthems or diving into soulful blues, Shimabukuro shows his creativity, heart, and technical brilliance with every note he plays. jakeshimabukuro.com
Thursday, December 11, 2025, 8 pm
$33–$63 | Smothers Theatre
HOLIDAY SWINGIN’! A KAT EDMONSON CHRISTMAS
With a voice as timeless as her songs, Kat Edmonson blends vintage charm with modern wit in a style all her own. A Songwriters Hall of Fame Award winner, she’s been featured on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts, Austin City Limits, A Prairie Home Companion, and the Tonight Show. Her live performances weave original tunes and classic favorites with humorous stories and heartfelt musings. Whether on the stage at Carnegie Hall or featured in a Woody Allen film, Edmonson’s work is full of character, candor, and cinematic flair.
katedmonson.com
Sunday, December 14, 2025, 5 pm
$30.50–$58 | Smothers Theatre
JOHN JORGENSON QUINTET WITH FRANK VIGNOLA
Sponsored by Malibu Music
Grammy Award–winning guitarist and multi-instrumentalist John Jorgenson leads a powerhouse ensemble that channels the spirit of 1930s Paris with its sizzling take on gypsy jazz. The John Jorgenson Quintet—featuring acoustic guitar, violin, accordion, bass, and percussion—delivers dazzling, high-energy performances that captivate audiences with rhythm, precision, and soul.
Saturday, January 10, 2026, 8 pm
$25.50–$48 | Smothers Theatre
AN EVENING WITH GARRISON KEILLOR
Sponsored by Asia Fernandez
Beloved radio personality Garrison Keillor shares an evening of wry humor, tender music, and reflections on aging with warmth and grace. Joined by longtime musical director Richard Dworsky, Keillor blends poetry, storytelling, and song in his unmistakable baritone. Fans can expect a visit to Lake Wobegon, a few limericks, and spirited sing-alongs in a night that honors the past while savoring the present. garrisonkeillor.com
Friday, January 16, 2026, 8 pm
$40.50–$78 | Smothers Theatre
LELAND KO, CELLO
Award-winning cellist Leland Ko has earned acclaim for his expressive sound and energetic stage presence. A Naumburg and Concert Artists Guild Competition winner, Ko appears this season with the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal and Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra and is the cellist of the newly formed Trio Rai. lelandko.com
Sunday, January 25, 2026, 2 pm
Save 30% on the Recital Series; $92 for all four performances.
$33 | Raitt Recital Hall
AILEY II
Ailey II blends the spirited energy of the country’s most promising young dancers with the bold vision of today’s emerging choreographers. Founded by Alvin Ailey in 1974, the company has become one of the most acclaimed modern dance ensembles in the US, known for its powerful performances and community engagement. Now under the artistic direction of Francesca Harper, Ailey II continues to celebrate Ailey’s legacy while forging exciting new paths in contemporary dance. ailey.org/ailey-ii
Sunday, February 1, 2026, 7 pm
$30.50–$58 | Smothers Theatre
CHARO
Sponsored by Alison and Dan Hodgkiss and Hodgkiss Insurance Brokers
Charo is a world-renowned flamenco guitarist known for her technical brilliance, lively stage presence, and signature sense of humor. Trained by Andrés Segovia, she blends classical skill with Latin rhythms and pop culture charm. Her performances offer a joyful mix of music and personality, promising an entertaining and memorable evening. charo.com
Thursday, February 5, 2026, 7:30 pm
$35.50–$68 | Smothers Theatre
LES BALLETS AFRICAINS
Founded in Paris in 1952, Les Ballets Africains is the acclaimed national dance company of the Republic of Guinea. Celebrated for its breathtaking fusion of traditional dance, music, and storytelling, the 35-member troupe has performed in more than 165 capital cities across the globe. With powerful percussion, dazzling costumes, and electrifying energy, Les Ballets Africains brings the vibrant spirit of West African culture to life—celebrating unity, tradition, and the power of artistic expression. lesballetsafricains.org
Sunday, February 8, 2026, 5 pm
Discounts for youth 17 and younger.
$35.50–$58 | Smothers Theatre
HARE AND TORTOISE
Produced by Tutti Frutti Productions
Join two unlikely friends in this delightful retelling of Aesop’s classic fable. As Hare impatiently urges the race forward, Tortoise takes their time—moving through the seasons with care and curiosity. With whimsical characters, live music, and playful physicality, Hare and Tortoise is a heartwarming tale of opposites, patience, and the power of friendship.
Saturday, February 28, 2026, 11 am and 1 pm
Discounts for youth 17 and younger.
$18–$33 | Smothers Theatre
KINGS RETURN
Kings Return is a Dallas-based a cappella quartet renowned for pushing vocal boundaries with smooth harmonies. Its genre-blending style weaves together gospel, jazz, R&B, and classical influences. Originally discovered through viral stairwell performances, the group has since earned a Grammy nomination and a devoted following. With every note, Kings Return brings warmth, precision, and a powerful sense of soul to the stage. kingsreturnmusic.com
Sunday, March 8, 2026, 5 pm
$30.50–$58 | Smothers Theatre
