Index by Genre
Public Performance Projects
8-9 | Jazz Along the Charles: A Walkable Concert
Ensembles
12-13 | Max Richter with ACME
14-15 | Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chamber Ensemble
20-21 | OK Go:
The Live Video Tour
32-33 | Béla Fleck / Zakir Hussain / Edgar Meyer
40-41 | What Makes It Great? with Orion Weiss
42-43 | Dover Quartet
60-61 | Mnozil Brass
82-83 | Hagen Quartet
84-85 | San Francisco
Symphony
86-87 | Sō Percussion
102-103 | Australian Chamber Orchestra with Paul Lewis
110-111 | Joshua Bell / Jeremy Denk / Steven Isserlis
114-115 | Philharmonix
Instrumentalists
30-31 | Gil Shaham, violin & Akira Eguchi, piano
50-51 | Pablo Sáinz Villegas, guitar
62-63 | Alisa Weilerstein, cello
96-97 | Gautier Capuçon & Yuja Wang
106-107 | Itzhak Perlman, violin & Evgeny Kissin, piano
Pianists
18-19 | Emanuel Ax
34-35 | Inon Barnatan
48-49 | Leif Ove Andsnes
64-65 | Beatrice Rana
76-77 | Kirill Gerstein & Thomas Adès
Dance
16-17 | Ephrat Asherie Dance
22-23 | Sankofa Danzafro
28-29 | Dance Heginbotham
54-55 | Nederlands Dans
Theater 2
58-59 | Mark Morris Dance Group, Pepperland
92-93 | Batsheva Dance Company, Venezuela
112-113 | Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
The Human Voice
10-11 | Alan Cumming: Legal Immigrant
24-25 | Anthony Roth Costanzo, countertenor
44-45 | Soweto Gospel Choir
56-57 | Thomas Hampson & Luca Pisaroni
66-67 | Joyce DiDonato, mezzo-soprano
74-75 Storm Large
80-81 Shawn Colvin
90-91 Cantus, Alone Together
100-101 David Sedaris
Jazz
26-27 | Luciana Souza’s Word
Strings and The Yellowjackets
36-37 | An Evening with the Julian Lage Trio
46-47 | Charles Lloyd & the Marvels & Lucinda Williams
52-53 | Lizz Wright & Lean On Me: José James Celebrates Bill Withers
72-73 | What Makes It Great with Kyle Athayde Dance Party
78-79 | Monterey Jazz Festival’s 60th Anniversary Celebration Starring Cécile McLorin Salvant
88-89 | Danilo Pèrez’s Global Messengers and Amir ElSaffar’s Two Rivers Ensemble
98-99 | Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis and Charles McPherson
104-105 | The Spring Quartet
116-117 | Alfredo Rodriguez & Pedrito Martinez Duo and Arturo O’Farrill Quintet
Events
108-109 | Celebrity Series Gala
Celebrity Series Info
6-7 | Black Box Performances
38-39 | Boston Debuts / Celebrity Series Debuts
68-71 | Calendar
94-95 | Debuts of 2018-19 artists
118-119 | Subscribe
120-121 | Subscriber Benefits
122-123 | Support
124-125 | Patron Events
126-127 | Engage
128 | Place Your Order
129-131 | New online form info, and ticketing policies
132-133 | Venue maps
134-135 | Young Professionals
136 | Mission & Vision
Inside back cover | Board and Overseers
Dear Friends,
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to Celebrity Series’ 80th season!
You can choose from a rich mix of Celebrity Series’ audience favorites, such as Itzhak Perlman in recital with Evgeny Kissin and the Boston debut of Israel’s Batsheva Dance Company, among many others. We’re adding a new venue to the mix this year with the addition of the very intimate Plimpton Shattuck Black Box Theatre at New England Conservatory where you can experience dance in a new setting. Mark Morris Dance Group makes its return with Pepperland, their tribute to the 50th anniversary of the Beatles’ legendary Sgt. Pepper album.
It only takes three events to take advantage of the best prices and get the best seats. Just be sure to respond by June 1–the priority seating deadline. We have also upgraded our website and have made our online subscription order form even easier to use, thanks to customer feedback. If you prefer, we will send you a paper form–just contact our subscription office.
As you fill out your order form, please consider making a donation to Celebrity Series. The ticket price only covers 64% of the actual cost of presenting the quality and scale of our season. Your gifts are essential to sustaining what Celebrity Series is able to bring to Boston.
As always, I am grateful for your support of Celebrity Series. I hope to see you at a performance soon!
Gary Dunning President & Executive Director Celebrity Series of Boston
The
joy power excellence innovation quality variety value adventure of live performance
Celebrity Series of Boston: for all the reasons you love
2018-2019 Season Highlights
Alan Cumming: Legal Immigrant
Pages 10-11
San Francisco Symphony
Michael Tilson Thomas, conductor
Christian Tetzlaff, violin soloist
Pages 84-85
Emanuel Ax, piano
Pages 18-19
Australian Chamber Orchestra
Paul Lewis, piano
Pages 102-103
Batsheva Dance Company
Venezuela
Pages 92-93
Mark Morris Dance Group, Pepperland
Pages 58-59
Itzhak Perlman, violin and Evgeny Kissin, piano
Pages 106-107
Joshua Bell, violin
Jeremy Denk, piano
Steven Isserlis, cello
Pages 110-111
Monterey Jazz Festival 60th Anniversary Celebration, starring Cécile McLorin Salvant
Pages 78-79
2018-19 Season Sponsor Amy & Joshua Boger
Top left: Alan Cumming | page 10-11
Top right: Paul Lewis | page 102-103
Bottom left: Batsheva Dance Company | page 92-93
Bottom right: Mark Morris Dance Group | page 58-59 2018 | 2019 Season 5
NEC's Plimpton Shattuck Black Box Theatre
Black Box Theatre Performances
NEC's Plimpton Shattuck Black Box Theatre
Celebrity Series will launch a new artistic initiative in the 2018-2019 season with performances at New England Conservatory’s Plimpton Shattuck Black Box Theatre, an intimate, flexible space in the Student Life & Performance Center at 255 St. Botolph Street, just around the corner from Jordan Hall. This first season’s programming will emphasize dance and, in particular, younger, groundbreaking choreographers and dance ensembles in their Boston debuts. The Black Box Theatre will give audiences the experience of contemporary dance in an intimate, 250-seat theater, providing a rare opportunity to witness up close the work of choreographers and dancers, and to see new dance vocabulary not usually seen in Boston.
Celebrity Series is proud to deepen its ongoing partnership with NEC to include this new performance space and to continue our long-standing tradition of bringing debut performances and new works to Boston, all performed to live music.
All performers are Boston Debuts. All works are Boston premieres.
October 26-27
Ephrat Asherie Dance, Odeon | Pages 16-17
November 3-4
Sakofa Danzafro, The City of Others | Pages 22-23
November 10-11
Dance Heginbotham | Pages 28-29
Sun | Sept 23 | 2-4pm
Charles River Esplanade, Boston
Charles River Esplanade Isaac Phelps, phelpsphotos.xyz
Jazz Along the Charles: A Walkable Concert
25 jazz bands. 25 locations. A free jazz event along the Charles River
On a single fall afternoon, Celebrity Series of Boston will produce a free, outdoor concert at a series of connected locations along the Charles River Esplanade. 25 jazz ensembles will interpret the same curated list of Boston-related tunes, each in their own style. While each band is unique, together they will create one collective event that celebrates the great jazz community in Boston today. The audience will stroll along the Charles River on a 2-mile loop, discovering new songs, artists, and areas of the Esplanade, creating a dynamic and evolving jazz concert experience. Jazz Along the Charles is a free public event, part of Celebrity Series’ commitment to free public performance experiences for the people of Boston. Previous Celebrity Series projects have included Street Pianos Boston (2013 & 2016), Le Grand Continental (2014), and Let’s Dance Boston (2015 & 2017).
Sun | Sept 23 | 2-4pm | Charles River Esplanade, Boston
Sponsored by Leslie & Howard Appleby, Amy & Joshua Boger, the Stephanie L. Brown Foundation, Donna & Michael Egan, and
Sun | Oct 7 | 7pm
Alan Cumming
Symphony Hall
Alan Cumming: Legal Immigrant
Alan Cumming seems to be up for anything. Well-known for his Tony Award-winning Emcee in Cabaret, and his ongoing role as host of PBS’s Masterpiece Mystery, Cumming has also hosted the Tony Awards, designed a perfume, worked with Stanley Kubrick, voiced a Smurf and appeared in a JAY-Z video. The versatile actor, singer, author and activist thrilled his Sanders Theatre audience in his first Celebrity Series appearance last season and returns with his new cabaret show, Legal Immigrant
Sun | Oct 7 | 7pm | Symphony Hall
In the underpopulated arena of male cabaret singers, Mr. Cumming may be the only one with the talent and drive to change its direction.”
The New York Times
Dress Circle Reception
Sponsored by Reuben Reynolds & Bill Casey
Top: Max Richter
Bottom: Members of ACME
Max Richter
Featuring the ACME ensemble performing music from Infra and The Leftovers
Max Richter stands as one of the most prolific figures on the contemporary music scene today with ground-breaking work as a composer, pianist, producer and collaborator. From synthesizers to full symphony orchestra, Richter has spun a web of innovation to compose music for solo albums, ballets, concert hall performances, film and television scores, video art installations and theatre works. Joining Richter is the American Contemporary Music Ensemble, New York’s “contemporary new music dynamos” (NPR). With Richter on keyboards and electronics and ACME in quintet form, the ensemble will perform music from Richter’s 2010 release, Infra and the HBO series The Leftovers
Thu | Oct 11 | 8pm | Berklee Performance Center
Fri | Oct 12 | 8pm
NEC’s
Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chamber Ensemble
Jordan Hall
Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chamber Ensemble
By drawing its membership from the world-renowned chamber orchestra the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chamber Ensemble routinely produces a rare and enviable amount of cohesion and keen musical responsiveness.
Fri | Oct 12 | 8pm | NEC’s Jordan Hall
Nielsen Serenata in vano Francaix Octet
Schubert Octet in F Major for Winds & Strings, D.803
An Aaron Richmond Recital
The Aaron Richmond recitals are dedicated to the founder of the Celebrity Series by Nancy Richmond Winsten and the late Joseph Winsten
Oct 26-27
Plimpton Shattuck Black Box Theatre
Sat | 8pm
Sun | 3pm
Ephrat Asherie Dance
Ephrat Asherie Dance, Odeon
With live music!
Ephrat Asherie Dance is an urban dance theater company dedicated to creating a new movement language that combines the rawness of underground dance styles such as breaking, house, hip hop and vogue with a contemporary dance aesthetic. Ephrat “Bounce” Asherie, a 2016 Bessie Award Winner for Innovative Achievement in Dance, is a New York based B-girl, dancer and choreographer, having held prestigious residency positions at New York Live Arts and Alvin Ailey Dance Center’s New Directions Choreography Lab. Odeon, an original dance work for seven dancers and four musicians, is the second collaboration between sister and brother team Ephrat and Ehud Asherie. Set to the music of Brazilian composer Ernesto Nazareth, Odeon explores connections between various street and club dances and delves into the complexity created when you bring this extended family of dances together.
Oct 26-27 | NEC's Plimpton Shattuck Black Box Theatre Fri | 8pm Sat | 8pm
Seating for this performance is limited
Sponsored by the Stephanie L. Brown Foundation, the Cynthia & John S. Reed Foundation, and
Emanuel Ax
Emanuel Ax piano
Pianist Emanuel Ax’s performances are a satisfying blend of tenderness and muscle, dramatic timing and melting sound all in a quest for the dramatic center of the music. Ax is a marvel.
Sun | Oct 28 | 3pm | Symphony Hall
Bach Partita No. 1 in B flat Major, BWV825
Schoenberg Six Little Piano Pieces, Opus 19
Schumann Fantasiestücke, Opus 12
Ravel Valses Nobles et Sentimentales
Chopin Mazurkas TBD
Andante Spianato and Grand Polonaise Brillante, Opus 22
Patron Society Reception
Patron Lounge
An Aaron Richmond Recital
Sponsored by Dorothy & Stephen Weber
Media Partner
Fri | Nov 2 | 8pm Berklee Performance Center
OK Go: The Live Video Tour
OK Go, the rock band famous for their wildly creative videos, brings their unique magic to the stage in 2018. As you might expect from the pioneering band who danced on treadmills and in zero gravity, this show is unlike any you’ve seen before: it’s a film screening and a rock concert rolled into one.
The band will perform their songs live and in sync with 20 of their iconic videos, pausing for question/answer sessions with the crowd and special performances. See them perform on handbells, and join in the high-tech interactive piece performed by the audience. Like the band, the show defies categorization, but bring your family and expect dancing, joy, and wonder.
Fri | Nov 2 | 8pm | Berklee Performance Center
Nov 3-4
Plimpton Shattuck
Black Box Theatre
Sat | 8pm
Sun | 3pm
Sakofa Danzafro
Sakofa Danzafro, The City of Others
With live music!
Nov 3-4 | NEC's Plimpton Shattuck Black Box Theatre Sat | 8pm Sun | 3pm
Founded by Rafael Palacios in 1997, Sankofa Danzafro is an exciting company from Colombia, the country with the second largest Afro-descent population found in Latin America. Sankofa means, “to return to the root”, an African philosophy that proposes that the past is a keyhole through which to view the present, and to consider the future. A spirit that guides the work of this Afro-Colombian dance company. The company’s The City of Others, examines issues of wealth, gender, sexual orientation, and lack of opportunity affecting minority communities in Columbia, and showcases powerful Afro-Colombian and Afro-contemporary dance with live drumming and singing.
Seating for this performance is limited
Sponsored by the Stephanie L. Brown Foundation, the Cynthia & John S. Reed Foundation, and
Wed | Nov 7 | 8pm
Longy’s Pickman Hall
Anthony Roth Costanzo
Anthony Roth Costanzo
Anthony Roth Costanzo countertenor
Extraordinary American countertenor Anthony Roth Costanzo is a previous Metropolitan Opera National Auditions Grand Prize Winner who has thrilled audiences on some of opera’s biggest stages. Now he brings his dazzling instrument with its “super pianissimo that just stops traffic,” according to director Peter Sellars, to intimate Pickman Hall for a Debut Series recital. Program to include arias by Handel, a premiere of a new piece written for Anthony by Gregory Spears, plus other works by Purcell, Britten, Poulenc and Philip Glass.
Wed | Nov 7 | 8pm | Longy’s Pickman Hall
And, as usual, Mr. Costanzo… was extraordinary.”
The New York Times
Seating for this performance is limited
Patron Lounge
The Debut Series is sponsored by Harriet & David Griesinger
Top: Luciana Souza
Bottom: Yellowjackets
Luciana Souza's Word Strings and Yellowjackets
Grammy winner, Brazilian Jazz singer and composer Luciana Souza, returns to the stage with Word Strings, her new project on words and poetry, featuring guitarist Chico Pinheiro and bassist Scott Colley. Joining Souza are the storied and influential jazz band, the Yellowjackets, whose broad range of stylistic mastery have earned them 17 Grammy nominations and a unique place in the jazz world. Souza and Yellowjackets will perform separately, then join forces for selections from their forthcoming joint project.
Fri | Nov 9 | 8pm | Berklee Performance Center
The Jazz Series is sponsored by Donna & Michael Egan
Nov 10-11
Plimpton Shattuck
Black Box Theatre
Sat | 8pm
Sun | 3pm
Dance Heginbotham
With live music!
Well-known for his 14-year tenure as a dancer with Mark Morris Dance Group, Artistic Director John Heginbotham creates work known for its “tight formal structure and inventive movement, bolstered by a disarming wit and strangeness” (The New Yorker). Founded in 2011, Dance Heginbotham has quickly established itself as one of the most adventurous and exciting new companies on the contemporary dance scene, and is celebrated for its vibrant athleticism, humor, and theatricality, as well as its commitment to collaboration. The company has shared the stage with music icons including Alarm Will Sound, Brooklyn Rider, Gabriel Kahane and Shara Nova, and members of The Knights orchestra.
Nov 10-11 | NEC's Plimpton Shattuck Black Box Theatre Sat | 8pm Sun | 3pm
[Heginbotham has] a true theater artist’s instinct for commanding his audience.”
The New York Times
Seating for this performance is limited
Sponsored by the Stephanie L. Brown Foundation, the Cynthia & John S. Reed Foundation, and
Fri | Nov 16 | 8pm
Top: Gil Shaham
Bottom: Akira Eguchi
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Gil Shaham & Akira Eguchi
Gil Shaham violin
Akira Eguchi piano
Gil Shaham returns to the Series for his sixth appearance, his fourth with longtime recital partner pianist Akira Eguchi. A generous artist with a palpable love for the music and a zest for performance, Shaham always delivers a memorable recital.
Fri | Nov 16 | 8pm | NEC’s Jordan Hall
Leclair Sonata in D Major, Opus 9
Wheeler The Singing Turk
Prokofiev Five Melodies
Kreisler Praeludium and Allegro (In the Style of Pugnani)
Franck Sonata in A Major
Media Partner
Béla Fleck, Zakir Hussain, & Edgar Meyer
Béla Fleck, Zakir Hussain & Edgar Meyer
Three masterful virtuosos on their respective instruments, Béla Fleck, Zakir Hussain and Edgar Meyer move with ease among the worlds of classical, bluegrass and world music. With the premiere banjo player in the world, a classical tabla virtuoso of the highest order, and a unique and masterful instrumentalist and composer on bass, this genre-blending super group is an unforgettable musical experience, bringing a delightful, alchemy of global grooves and dazzling solos.
Sat | Nov 17 | 8pm | Sanders Theatre
The sophisticated and poised music created by this trio…put the audience under its spell for the best part of two hours, sticking a label on it seemed rather beside the point.”
London Jazz News
Sponsored by Julia Byers & Steven Holtzman
Sun | Nov 18 | 3pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Inon Barnatan
Inon Barnatan
Inon Barnatan piano
Pianist Inon Barnatan has wowed Celebrity Series audiences since his first appearance on the Series with longtime musical partner Alisa Weilerstein in 2008. Subsequent Series performances with the Jerusalem String Quartet and in solo recital have provided ample evidence of his emerging mastery. Barnatan’s poetic sensibility, musical intelligence, and consummate artistry have made his performances among the most anticipated in any season.
Sun | Nov 18 | 3pm | NEC’s Jordan Hall
Bach Toccata in E Minor, BWV 914
Handel Allemande from Suite in E Major, HWV 430
Rameau Courante from Suite in A minor, RCT 5
Couperin L’Atalante
Ravel Rigaudon from Le tombeau de Couperin
Adès Blanca Variations
Ligeti Musica Ricercata No. 10 and No. 11
Barber Fugue from Sonata in E minor
Brahms Variations & Fugue on a Theme by Handel
…a true poet of the keyboard: refined, searching, unfailingly communicative.”
Evening Standard, London
An Aaron Richmond Recital
Fri | Nov 30 | 8pm Berklee Performance Center
Julian Lage
An Evening with Julian Lage Trio
Julian Lage guitar
Jorge Roeder bass
Eric Doob drums
Julian Lage is of the “highest category of improvising musicians, those who can enact thoughts and impulses as they receive them.” (The New Yorker) The California- born, now New York–based guitarist has evolved from collaborator (with such giants as Gary Burton, Jim Hall, David Grisman, Béla Fleck, and Charles Lloyd) to band leader. On Modern Lore, Julian Lage’s second studio recording with his trio, the composer and guitarist focuses on the groove, building his melodies and solos around the work of his prodigious rhythm section.
Fri | Nov 30 | 8pm | Berklee Performance Center
Indeed, the gig orbited around Lage’s audacious solos, the trio’s dynamic control and simpatico grooves, resulting in an utterly mesmerising sight and sound.”
Jazzwise Magazine
The Jazz Series is sponsored by Donna & Michael Egan
Boston Debuts 2018-19
Academy St. Martin in the Fields Chamber Ensemble
Batsheva Dance Company
Cantus
Dance Heginbotham
Ephrat Asherie Dance
Dover Quartet
Amir ElSaffar’s Two Rivers Ensemble
Mnozil Brass
Sankofa Danzafro
Philharmonix
Luca Pisaroni
Beatrice Rana
Max Richter
Pablo Sáinz Villegas
Celebrity Series Debuts 2018-19
ACME (American Contemporary Music Ensemble)
Gautier Capuçon
Shawn Colvin
Joyce DiDonato
Bill Frisell
Zakir Hussain
Steven Isserlis
José James
Steven Isserlis
Storm Large
Pedrito Martinez
Charles McPherson
OK Go
Alfredo Rodriguez
Lucinda Williams
The Yellowjackets
Sun | Dec 2 | 3pm
Orion Weiss
NEC’s Jordan Hall
What Makes It Great? With Rob Kapilow and Orion Weiss
Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 23 in F minor, "Appassionata"
Rob Kapilow and recent Debut Series artist pianist Orion Weiss take on one of Beethoven’s greatest and most technically challenging piano works, Sonata No. 23, Opus 57, the “Appassionata.” The demonic intensity and daring harmonic sense of this sonata foreshadowed Beethoven’s so-called second creative period. Kapilow and Weiss’s descriptions, dissections, and insights will culminate in a full performance of this magnificent sonata.
Sun | Dec 2 | 3pm | NEC's Jordan Hall
What Makes it Great? is sponsored by Amy & Joshua Boger
Wed | Dec 5 | 8pm
Longy’s Pickman Hall
Dover Quartet
Dover Quartet
The phenomenal Dover Quartet catapulted to international stardom following a stunning sweep of the 2013 Banff Competition. Recently named the Cleveland Quartet Award winner, and awarded the coveted Avery Fisher Career Grant, the Dover’s star is distinctly on the rise. Hailed as “the next Guarneri Quartet” (Chicago Tribune), the Dover Quartet draws from the lineage of that distinguished ensemble, as well as that of the Cleveland and Vermeer Quartets.
Wed | Dec 5 | 8pm | Longy’s Pickman Hall
Tchaikovsky Quartet No. 3 in E-flat minor, Opus 30 Mason Bates From Amber Frozen Dvořák Quartet in A-flat Major, Opus 105
A sound so distinctive as to be identified within mere minutes.”
The Philadelphia Inquirer
Seating for this performance is limited
Patron Lounge
The Debut Series is sponsored by Harriet & David Griesinger
Fri | Dec 7 | 8pm
Soweto Gospel Choir
Soweto Gospel Choir, Songs of the Free
The spectacular and vibrant two-time Grammy®-award winning Soweto Gospel Choir returns to the Boston with Songs of the Free, a very special program celebrating the centenary of the birth of Nelson Mandela. Songs of the Free will include South African classics as well as freedom songs and gospel music much loved by Mandela for whom the choir had the privilege of performing in front of multiple times. A favorite of Celebrity Series audiences, Soweto Gospel Choir has performed to sell-out crowds at concert halls around the world and alongside superstars including Bono, Queen, Celine Dion, John Legend, Peter Gabriel, Josh Groban, Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder. Be uplifted!
Fri | Dec 7 | 8pm | Berklee Performance Center
New York Times
Sun | Dec 16 | 7pm
Berklee Performance Center
Charles Lloyd
Charles Lloyd & the Marvels & Lucinda Williams
Featuring Bill Frisell, Reuben Rogers, Eric Harland, and Greg Leisz
Saxophonist Charles Lloyd has a legendary history in the music world, and could certainly be in a position to slow down and rest on his laurels–but that is not his way. In November 2016, Charles Lloyd and the Marvels recorded a powerful version of Bob Dylan’s Masters of War with singer/ songwriter Lucinda Williams. The success of that single led to this remarkable, unique collaboration and tour, which includes guitarist Bill Frisell, pedal steel guitarist, Greg Leisz; bassist Reuben Rogers; and drummer Eric Harland.
Sun | Dec 16 | 7pm | Berklee Performance Center
Mr. Lloyd has come up with a strange and beautiful distillation of the American experience...”
The New York Times The Jazz Series is sponsored by Donna & Michael Egan
Fri | Jan 18 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Leif Ove Andsnes
Leif Ove Andsnes
Leif Ove Andsnes piano
The New York Times has called Leif Ove Andsnes “a pianist of magisterial elegance, power, and insight,” and the Wall Street Journal named him “one of the most gifted musicians of his generation.” With his commanding technique and searching interpretations, the celebrated Norwegian pianist has won acclaim worldwide.
Fri | Jan 18 | 8pm | NEC’s Jordan Hall
R. Schumann Three Romances, Opus 28
Janáček On an Overgrown Path, Book 1
Bartók Three Burlesques, Opus 8
Schumann Carnaval, Opus 9
… immaculate technique and virtuosic empathy for the music.”
Die Presse
An Aaron Richmond Recital
Sponsored in memory of Blanche & George Jones
Wed | Jan 23 | 8pm
Longy’s Pickman Hall
Pablo Sáinz Villegas
Pablo Sáinz Villegas
Pablo Sáinz Villegas guitar
A native of La Rioja, Spain, and a Sony recording artist, Pablo Sáinz Villegas has become a worldwide sensation and one of the most exciting guitarists of his generation. With his “virtuosic playing characterized by irresistible exuberance” (New York Times), his interpretations conjure the passion, playfulness, and drama of his homeland’s rich musical heritage.
Wed | Jan 23 | 8pm | Longy’s Pickman Hall
Heitor Villa-Lobos Five Preludes
Luiz Bonfá Passeio no Rio–Samba
Pedro Elías Gutiérrez Alma Llanera–Joropo
Roland Dyens Tango en Skäi
Agustín Barrios Mangoré Un Sueño en la Floresta
Leonard Bernstein Selections from West Side Story
Antonio Lauro Seis por Derecho–Joropo
Patron Lounge
The Debut Series is sponsored by Harriet & David Griesinger
Fri | Jan 25 | 8pm
Top: José James
Bottom: Lizz Wright
Lizz Wright and Lean on Me: José James Celebrates Bill Withers
Lizz Wright has garnered widespread attention as one of the most respected jazz and popular singers of her generation through the release of five critically acclaimed albums. Through an inimitable voice that The New York Times touts as, “a smooth, dark alto possessed of qualities you might associate with barrel-aged bourbon or butter-soft leather,” Wright sings with a soaring reflection of the cultural fabric of America.
Often referred to as a jazz singer for the hip-hop generation, New York City-based vocalist José James combines jazz, soul, drum’n’bass, and spoken word into his own unique brand of vocal jazz. Celebrating the eightieth birth year of the legendary R&B singer songwriter, José James presents Lean on Me: José James Celebrates Bill Withers, an exploration of the deep musical catalogue that touched millions of hearts and united communities worldwide.
Fri | Jan 25 | 8pm | Berklee Performance Center
The Jazz Series is sponsored by Donna & Michael Egan
Jan 26-27
Boch Center Shubert Theatre
Sat | 8pm
Sun | 3pm
Nederlands Dans Theater 2
Nederlands Dans Theater 2
Nederlands Dans Theater is one of the world's most celebrated dance companies, thrilling audiences with its unique brand of breathtaking dance, awe-inspiring skill and passionate creativity. Founded in 1978, NDT2 features some of the best young classically trained dancers from around the world and offers a varied repertoire by established as well as up and coming choreographers. NDT2 returns to the Celebrity Series for the first time since their thrilling 2009 debut.
Jan 26-27 | Boch Center Shubert Theatre Sat | 8pm Sun | 3pm
NDT2 is a distinct phenomenon, and phenomenal.”
The Independent
The Dance Series is sponsored by The Stephanie L. Brown Foundation and The Cynthia & John S. Reed Foundation
Fri | Feb 1 | 8pm
Thomas Hampson & Luca Pisaroni
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Thomas Hampson & Luca Pisaroni, No Tenors Allowed
Baritone Thomas Hampson returns for his fourth Series appearance alongside his son-in-law, the acclaimed bass-baritone Luca Pisaroni, to perform operatic and Broadway favorites in No Tenors Allowed! Thrilling, thunderous low notes reign supreme when they perform selections by Mozart, Verdi, Rodgers & Hammerstein, and more.
Fri | Feb 1 | 8pm | NEC’s Jordan Hall
With this strong program the two vocal top guns proved once again that opera is about life, about laughing and crying, about power and love.”
Place de l’Opera (Netherlands)
An Aaron Richmond Recital
Feb 8-10
Boch Center Shubert Theatre
Fri | 8pm
Sat | 8pm
Sun | 3pm
Mark Morris Dance Group
Mark Morris Dance Group, Pepperland
Mark Morris, hailed as “the most successful and influential choreographer alive, and indisputably the most musical” (New York Times) returns to Boston with Pepperland, a unique tribute to the 50th Anniversary of The Beatles’ groundbreaking album Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, accompanied live by an unprecedented chamber music ensemble of voice, soprano saxophone, two keyboards, theremin, and percussion. Ethan Iverson’s original score intermingles arrangements of the songs “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” “With a Little Help From My Friends,” “A Day in the Life,” “When I’m Sixty-Four,” “Within You Without You,” and “Penny Lane” with six Pepper-inspired original pieces intended especially for Morris’ profound understanding of classical forms: Allegro, Scherzo, Adagio, and the blues. This is a must-see for dance and Beatles fans alike.
Feb 8-10 | Boch Center Shubert Theatre
Fri | 8pm Sat | 8pm Sun | 3pm
Sponsor's Circle Reception
Sponsored by Susan & Michael Thonis
The Dance Series is sponsored by The Stephanie L. Brown Foundation and The Cynthia & John S. Reed Foundation
Sat | Feb 9 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Mnozil Brass
Mnozil Brass, Cirque
Mnozil Brass has established itself as one of the world’s premiere brass ensembles and has captivated audiences worldwide with their blend of extraordinary virtuosity and theatrical wit. Mnozil Brass take their name from the “Gasthaus Mnozil,” a restaurant across the street from the Vienna Conservatory, where, in 1992, seven young brass musicians met and began playing at a monthly open-mic. Since then, the group has embraced repertoire for all ages and stages of life: from folk to classical to jazz to pop; all executed with the same fearlessness, immense technical skill, and typical Viennese “schmäh” (almost impossible to find an English translation, but best rendered as a kind of sarcastic charm!).
Sat | Feb 9 | 8pm | NEC’s Jordan Hall
The members of Mnozil Brass do not talk during their show. They don’t need to. Their non-stop pace, comedic timing, and astounding playing had the audience simultaneously in stitches and rapt with attention for the full two-hour show.”
KCmetropolis.org
Fri | Feb 15 | 7pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Alisa Weilerstein
Alisa Weilerstein
Complete Bach Cello Suites
Alisa Weilerstein cello
“It’s like Transcendental Meditation, almost, this incredible arc,” said Alisa Weilerstein to the New York Times about performing Bach’s six unaccompanied cello suites. One of the leading talents of her generation returns for her fourth Celebrity Series appearance playing arguably the pinnacle of the cello lexicon: a must-hear concert for music lovers!
Fri | Feb 15 | 7pm | NEC’s Jordan Hall
J.S. Bach Cello Suites Nos. 1-6
The Daily Telegraph Media Partner “
[Weilerstein] is showing the world that hers is a talent that only comes along once in a very long while.”
Wed | Feb 27 | 8pm
Longy’s Pickman Hall
Beatrice Rana
Beatrice Rana
Beatrice Rana piano
At only 24 years old, Gramophone’s 2017 “Young Artist of the Year” Beatrice Rana is making waves on the international classical music scene, arousing admiration and interest from conductors, critics and audiences around the world. The Italian native, who was championed by no less than pianist Martha Argerich, shot to fame when she claimed the Silver Medal and Audience Award at the 2013 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition.
Wed | Feb 27 | 8pm | Longy’s Pickman Hall
Chopin Ètudes, Opus 25
Ravel Miroirs
Stravinsky/Agosti The Firebird
There’s something of Martha Argerich about the way she combines chunky articulation and sparkling clarity with whimsical touches.”
The London Times
Seating for this performance is limited
Patron Lounge
The Debut Series is sponsored by Harriet & David Griesinger
Fri | Mar 1 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Joyce DiDonato
Joyce DiDonato
Joyce DiDonato mezzo-soprano
SONGPLAY: Gioco d’amor
The “perfect 21st century diva” (New York Times) is a proud Kansan, a fierce arts advocate, a charismatic social media standout (follow her @JoyceDiDonato), and one of the most exciting and sought-after stars in opera, bringing fire and intelligence to Baroque, bel canto, and contemporary heroines. For her much-anticipated Boston recital debut, she and her four-piece ensemble with perform a broad range of improvisation-forward musical styles – ranging from Italian old-style art songs to jazz – in a joyful program that will draw unexpected and serendipitous connections across centuries and genres.
Fri | Mar 1 | 8pm | NEC’s Jordan Hall
Joyce DiDonato treated her fans to a top performance. Not a standard solo recital, but a magical night of total theater, with great singing and music.” Opera Magazine “
2018-19 Calendar
Jazz Along the Charles: A Walkable Concert
Sun | Sept 23 | 2-4pm
Charles River Esplanade, Boston Pages 8-9
Alan Cumming: Legal Immigrant
Sun | Oct 7 | 7pm
Symphony Hall Pages 10-11
Max Richter Featuring the ACME ensemble
performing music from Infra and The Leftovers
Thu | Oct 11 | 8pm
Berklee Performance Center Pages 12-13
Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chamber Ensemble
Fri | Oct 12 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall Pages 14-15
Ephrat Asherie Dance, Odeon
Oct 26 & 27
Plimpton Shattuck
Black Box Theatre
New England Conservatory
Pages 16-17
Emanuel Ax, piano
Sun | Oct 28 | 3pm
Symphony Hall Pages 18-19
OK Go: The Live Video Tour
Fri | Nov 2 | 8pm
Berklee Performance Center Pages 20-21
Sankofa Danzafro, The City of Others
Nov 3 & 4
Plimpton Shattuck
Black Box Theatre
New England Conservatory Pages 22-23
Anthony Roth Costanzo, countertenor
Wed | Nov 7 | 8pm
Longy’s Pickman Hall Pages 24-25
Luciana Souza's Word Strings and Yellowjackets
Fri | Nov 9 | 8pm
Berklee Performance Center
Pages 26-27
Dance Heginbotham
Nov 10 & 11
Plimpton Shattuck
Black Box Theatre
New England Conservatory Pages 28-29
Gil Shaham, violin and Akira Eguchi, piano
Fri | Nov 16 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Pages 30-31
Béla Fleck, Zakir Hussain & Edgar Meyer
Sat | Nov 17 | 8pm
Sanders Theatre
Pages 32-33
Inon Barnatan, piano
Sun | Nov 18 | 3pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall Pages 34-35
An Evening with the Julian Lage Trio
Fri | Nov 30 | 8pm
Berklee Performance Center Pages 36-37
What Makes It Great? with Rob Kapilow and Orion Weiss, piano
Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No. 23 in F minor, “Appassionata”
Sun | Dec 2 | 3pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall Pages 40-41
Dover Quartet
Wed | Dec 5 | 8pm
Longy’s Pickman Hall
Pages 42-43
Soweto Gospel Choir, Songs of the Free
Fri | Dec 7 | 8pm
Berklee Performance Center Pages 44-45
Charles Lloyd & the Marvels & Lucinda Williams
Sun | Dec 16 | 7pm
Berklee Performance Center
Pages 46-47
Leif Ove Andsnes, piano
Fri | Jan 18 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall Pages 48-49
Pablo Sáinz Villegas, guitar
Wed | Jan 23 | 8pm
Longy’s Pickman Hall Pages 50-51
Double-Bill!
Lizz Wright and Lean On Me: José James Celebrates Bill Withers
Fri | Jan 25 | 8pm
Berklee Performance Center Pages 52-53
Nederlands Dans Theater 2
Jan 26 & 27
Boch Center Shubert Theatre
Pages 54-55
Thomas Hampson & Luca
Pisaroni, No Tenors Allowed
Fri | Feb 1 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall Pages 56-57
Mark Morris Dance Group, Pepperland
Feb 8-10
Boch Center Shubert Theatre Pages 58-59
Mnozil Brass, Cirque
Sat | Feb 9 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall Pages 60-61
Alisa Weilerstein, cello
Complete Bach Cello Suites
Fri | Feb 15 | 7pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall Pages 62-63
Beatrice Rana, piano
Wed | Feb 27 | 8pm
Longy’s Pickman Hall Pages 64-65
Joyce DiDonato, mezzo-soprano
Fri | Mar 1 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall Pages 66-67
What Makes It Great? with Rob Kapilow and Kyle Athayde Dance Party
Bands of The Swing Era
Sat | Mar 2 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall Pages 72-73
Storm Large
Fri | Mar 8 | 8pm
Sanders Theatre Page 74-75
Kirill Gerstein, piano and Thomas Adès, piano, composer
Fri | Mar 15 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall Pages 76-77
Monterey Jazz Festival 60th Anniversary Celebration Starring Cécile McLorin
Salvant
Sat | Mar 17 | 7pm
Berklee Performance Center Pages 78-79
Shawn Colvin
Fri | Mar 22 | 8pm
Sanders Theatre Pages 80-81
Hagen Quartet
Sat | Mar 23 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall Pages 82-83
San Francisco Symphony
Michael Tilson Thomas, conductor
Christian Tetzlaff, violin soloist
Sun | Mar 24 | 5pm
Symphony Hall
Pages 84-85
Sō Percussion, Drumming
Thu | Mar 28 | 8pm
Sanders Theatre
Pages 86-87
Double-Bill!
Danilo Pérez's Global Messengers and Amir
ElSaffer’s Two Rivers Ensemble
Fri | Mar 29 | 8pm
Sanders Theatre Pages 88-89
Cantus, Alone Together
Wed | Apr 3 | 8pm
Longy’s Pickman Hall
Pages 90-91
Batsheva Dance Company, Venezuela
Apr 5 & 6
Boch Center Shubert Theatre
Pages 92-93
Gautier Capuçon, cello and Yuja Wang, piano
Sat | Apr 6 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Pages 96-97
Jazz at Lincoln Center
Orchestra with Wynton
Marsalis and special guest
Charles McPherson
The Music of McCoy and McPherson
Sun | Apr 7 | 5pm
Symphony Hall
Pages 98-99
David Sedaris
Wed | Apr 10 | 8pm
Symphony Hall
Pages 100-101
Australian Chamber
Orchestra with Paul Lewis, piano
Sat | Apr 13 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Pages 102-103
The Spring Quartet
Jack DeJohnette, drums
Joe Lovano, saxophones
Esperanza Spalding, bass
Leo Genovese, piano
Sun | Apr 14 | 7pm
Berklee Performance Center
Pages 104-105
Itzhak Perlman, violin and Evgeny Kissin, piano
Mon | Apr 22 | 8pm
Symphony Hall
Pages 106-107
Celebrity Series Gala
Sat | Apr 27
The Cyclorama
Pages 108-109
Joshua Bell, violin
Jeremy Denk, piano
Steven Isserlis, cello
Sun | Apr 28 | 5pm
Symphony Hall
Pages 110-111
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
May 2-5 | Boch Center
Wang Theatre
Pages 112-113
Philharmonix
Fri | May 3 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Pages 114-115
Double-Bill!
Alfredo RodrÍguez & Pedrito Martinez Duo and the Arturo O'Farrill
Quintet
Fri | May 10 | 8pm
Sanders Theatre
Pages 116-117
Sat | Mar 2 | 8pm
Rob Kapilow
NEC’s Jordan Hall
What Makes It Great? With Rob Kapilow and Kyle Athayde Dance
Party
Bands of The Swing Era
The swing era was the high point of jazz’s popularity with the public. These bands were rock stars—popular with multiple generations in a way that has never again been equaled. Parents and kids often danced to the same music (unimaginable today.) Find out what makes the swing music in the 30’s and 40’s so unique as Rob delves into the works of famous bandleaders of the time including Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller and Artie Shaw. What a swinging evening!”
Sat | Mar 2 | 8pm | NEC's Jordan Hall
What Makes It Great? is sponsored by Amy & Joshua Boger
Fri | Mar 8 | 8pm
Sanders Theatre
Storm Large
Storm Large is a musician, actor, playwright, and author, who is known by many as a member of the eclectic pop band Pink Martini. Part sultry cabaret singer, part punk goddess, Storm has sung with and in a remarkable number of settings, including k.d. lang, pianist Kirill Gerstein, punk rocker John Doe, singer/songwriter Rufus Wainwright, funkster George Clinton, and the BBC Symphony and Los Angeles Chamber Orchestras. Large makes wonderful records, but one must see and hear her in a live concert.
Fri | Mar 8 | 8pm | Sanders Theatre
The Oregonian “
Large’s voice is a Swiss army knife, and she spent her show slicing through the limits of the Great American Songbook. She touched on jazz, rock, show tunes and the orchestra’s classical presence, no genre out of reach of her flawless vibrato.”
Fri | Mar 15 | 8pm
Top: Kirill Gerstein
Bottom: Thomas Adès
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Kirill Gerstein & Thomas Adès
Kirill Gerstein piano
Thomas Adès piano and composer
Kirill Gerstein’s playing is distinguished by a discerning intelligence, great virtuosity and a clarity of expression. He has been described as “Gloriously free and unfazed by technical difficulties, he made the piano sing…”(Leipziger Volkszeitung) A prolific composer whose work is in demand across the globe, Thomas Adès is also a highly regarded pianist who made his Carnegie Hall debut in 2007.
Fri | Mar 15 | 8pm | NEC’s Jordan Hall
Debussy En Blanc et Noir
Stravinsky/Shostakovich Symphony of Psalms
Lutoslawski Variations on a theme by Paganini
Debussy Lindaraja
Adès Concert paraphrase on Powder Her Face
Ravel La Valse
Co-presented with
Sun | Mar 17 | 7pm
Cécile McLorin Salvant
Monterey Jazz Festival 60th Anniversary Celebration
Starring Cécile McLorin Salvant
The Monterey Jazz Festival holds the distinction of being the longest consecutively running jazz festival in the world. Pianist and musical director Christian Sands celebrates this 60 year tradition with a stunning lineup of saxophonist Melissa Aldana, trumpeter Bria Skonberg, bassist Yasushi Nakamura, drummer Jamison Ross, and starring vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant.
Sun | Mar 17 | 7pm | Berklee Performance Center
Only a few years into her career, [Salvant] has absorbed the music’s history and made it her own.”
The New Yorker
The Jazz Series is sponsored by Donna & Michael Egan
Fri | Mar 22 | 8pm
Shawn Colvin
Sanders Theatre
Shawn Colvin
In an era when female singer-songwriters can seem ubiquitous, Shawn Colvin stands out as a singular and enduring talent. Her songs are slow-release works of craft and catharsis that become treasured, lifetime companions for their listeners. In the 27 years since the release of her debut album, Colvin has won three Grammy Awards, released eleven albums, written a critically acclaimed memoir, maintained a non-stop national and international touring schedule, appeared on countless television and radio programs, had her songs featured in major motion pictures, and created a remarkable canon of work.
Fri | Mar 22 | 8pm | Sanders Theatre
The Guardian “
With delicious sarcasm and acerbic stories, she held the audience spellbound…her songs are so personal to her that they speak to everyone who listens.”
Sat | Mar 23 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Hagen Quartet
Hagen Quartet
Celebrity Series audiences will remember the Hagen Quartet’s thrilling Boston debut in 2012. The renowned Salzburgers, siblings Lukas (violin), Veronika (viola), and Clemens (cello), and violinist Rainer Schmidt make their much-anticipated return to the Celebrity Series.
Sat | Mar 23 | 8pm | NEC’s Jordan Hall
Schubert Quartet in A minor, D. 804, “Rosamunde”
Webern Five Movements for String Quartet, Opus 5 Beethoven Quartet in C-sharp minor, Opus 131
Media Partner “
Music that sounds as if it came from another planet…the pinnacle of musicality!”
Drehpunkt Kultur
An Aaron Richmond Recital
Sunday | Mar 24 | 5pm
Symphony Hall
Michael Tilson Thomas
San Francisco Symphony
Michael Tilson Thomas conductor
Christian Tetzlaff violin soloist
The acclaimed San Francisco Symphony returns for their eighth Celebrity Series appearance, their final under the baton of visionary music director Michael Tilson Thomas, who has announced his retirement in 2020. The program features “an artist who considers the ordinary unacceptable” (New York Times), and the brilliant German violinist Christian Tetzlaff–who has more recently dazzled audiences in recital and chamber performances–in his first Series performance as an orchestral soloist in more than 25 years.
Sunday | Mar 24 | 5pm | Symphony Hall
M. Tilson Thomas Agnegram
Mendelssohn Violin Concerto in E minor, Opus 64
Beethoven Symphony No. 3 in E-flat Major, “Eroica”
Sponsored by
Dress Circle Dinner
Patron Lounge
Additional support provided by the Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany
Sō Percussion
SŌ Percussion drumming
With innovative multi-genre original productions, sensational interpretations of modern classics, and an “exhilarating blend of precision and anarchy, rigor and bedlam,” (The New Yorker), Sō Percussion has redefined the scope and vital role of the modern percussion ensemble. The group will perform Steve Reich’s early-1970s masterwork, Drumming. Inspired by the music of Ghana, Drumming is a powerful and hypnotic piece considered by many to be minimalism’s first masterpiece.
Thu | Mar 28 | 8pm | Sanders Theatre
If percussionists are, as proclaimed elsewhere, the new princes of the realm of virtuosity, then these four young, steelwristed, Brooklyn-based Yale graduates wear the crown with panache.”
The Financial Times
Top: Danilo Pérez
Bottom: Two Rivers Ensemble
Sanders Theatre
Danilo Pérez's Global Messengers and Amir ElSaffar's Two Rivers Ensemble
Led by Panamanian pianist and composer Danilo Pérez, the Global Messengers draws its unique spirit from the culture and experiences of its members, who hail variously from Palestine, Greece, Jordan, and Panama, with varied musical traditions and instrumentation to match. Danilo Pérez and the Global Messengers are committed to the ancient practice of building community through melodically rich and rhythmically exciting music.
Led by trumpeter Amir ElSaffar, The Two Rivers Ensemble is a sextet of jazz and Middle Eastern musicians particularly notable for combining the maqam modal system—which ElSaffar studied in Baghdad—with American jazz. Deeply rooted in musical forms of Iraq and nearby regions, the music still speaks the language of swing, improvisation and group interaction, and the resultant sound is distinct and enthralling.
Fri | Mar 29 | 8pm | Sanders Theatre
The Jazz Series is sponsored by Donna & Michael Egan
Wed | Apr 3 | 8pm
Longy’s Pickman Hall
Cantus, Alone Together
The eight men of Cantus–a Minneapolis-based a cappella group called “the premier men’s vocal ensemble in the United States” (Fanfare)–collaborate on arrangements of repertoire that run the gamut: liturgical chant from various traditions meet Broadway, pop, and standards. Don’t miss their Boston debut at Longy’s intimate Pickman Hall with a program called Alone Together: new works, classics, and pop favorites that reflect on connection, longing, and acceptance. Program to include the Boston Premiere of a new work by Libby Larsen, co-commissioned by Celebrity Series of Boston.
Wed | Apr 3 | 8pm | Longy’s Pickman Hall
Seating for this performance is limited
Patron Lounge
The Debut Series is sponsored by Harriet & David Griesinger
Apr 5-6
Boch Center Shubert Theatre
Fri | 8pm
Sat | 8pm
Batsheva Dance Company
Photo: Ascaf
Batsheva Dance Company, Venezuela
Choreography by Ohad Naharin
Batsheva Dance Company has been critically acclaimed and popularly embraced as one of the foremost contemporary dance companies in the world. Based in Tel Aviv and led by renowned choreographer Ohad Naharin for the past 27 years, Batsheva is known worldwide for its innovative and distinctive style. Naharin is widely considered to be one of the great choreographers of his generation. The eighteen dancers of Batsheva’s senior company are cast globally and trained by Naharin in his original movement language he has coined “Gaga”. Set to a wide range of music from Gregorian chant to tango to hip-hop, Naharin’s newest work, Venezuela, explores the relationship between movement and the content it represents and juxtaposes the familiar with the unfamiliar. Don’t miss this extraordinary chance to witness one of the world’s most important contemporary dance companies!
Apr 5-6 | Boch Center Shubert Theatre Fri | 8pm Sat | 8pm
The Dance Series is sponsored by The Stephanie L. Brown Foundation and The Cynthia & John S. Reed Foundation
Additional support provided by the Consulate General of Israel to New England
Celebrity Series Debuts of 2018-19 Artists
San Francisco Symphony | April 13, 1947
(Pierre Monteux, conductor, Boston debut)
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater | January 27, 1968
Itzhak Perlman | March 7, 1971
Michael Tilson Thomas | November 30, 1979
Emanuel Ax | November 1, 1980
Yo-Yo Ma | November 1, 1980
Wynton Marsalis | March 15, 1987 (with Eastman Wind Ensemble)
Christian Tetzlaff | September 20, 1991 (with Junge Deutsche Philharmonie)
Evgeny Kissin | October 24, 1991
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra | October 11, 1992
Thomas Hampson | November 12, 1992
Joshua Bell | November 20, 1994 (with Houston Symphony)
Rob Kapilow | January 13, 1996 (Family Musik)
Anthony Roth Costanzo | January 27, 1996 (Family Musik)
Joe Lovano | August 4, 1996 (Jazz at DeCordova)
Luciana Souza | September 15, 1996 (Jazz at the DeCordova)
Gil Shaham | October 16, 1998
Akira Eguchi | October 16, 1998
Mark Morris Dance Group | February 26, 1999
(with Yo-Yo Ma & Mikhail Baryshnikov)
David Sedaris | October 11, 2002
Australian Chamber Orchestra | April 30, 2004
Soweto Gospel Choir | February 12, 2005
Esperanza Spalding | March 18, 2006 (with Joe Lovano Quartet)
Arturo O’Farrill | May 18, 2007 (with Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra)
Yuja Wang | piano | April 2, 2008 (with Academy of St. Martin in the Fields)
Alisa Weilerstein | May 4, 2008
Inon Barnaton | May 4, 2008
Jeremy Denk | May 10, 2008
Leif Ove Andsnes | January 31, 2009 (with Christian Tetzlaff)
Nederlands Dans Theatre 2 | March 16, 2009
Béla Fleck | November 18, 2011
Hagen Quartet | January 26, 2012
Edgar Meyer | January 31, 2012 (Goat Rodeo Sessions)
Paul Lewis | January 12, 2013
Charles Lloyd | March 21, 2013
Danilo Pérez | November 24, 2013 (Wayne Shorter Quartet)
Kirill Gerstein | January 31, 2014
Jack DeJohnette | March 6, 2014 (Spring Quartet)
Leo Genovese | March 6, 2014 (Spring Quartet)
Cécile McLorin Salvant | February 6, 2015 (with Christian McBride Trio)
Kyle Athayde | April 10, 2015 (What Makes It Great?)
Lizz Wright | October 16, 2016
Thomas Adès | October 28, 2016
Sō Percussion | March 19, 2016 (Stave Sessions)
Alan Cumming | October 6, 2017
Julian Lage | March 17, 2017
Sat | Apr 6 | 8pm
Top: Gautier Capuçon
Bottom: Yuja Wang
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Gautier Capuçon & Yuja Wang
Gautier Capuçon cello
Yuja Wang piano
Incandescent pianist Yuja Wang makes her fourth Series appearance–her first as a chamber music recital partner–alongside French cellist Gautier Capuçon, whom the Boston Globe praised for his “energy and panache,” in his Celebrity Series recital debut.
Sat | Apr 6 | 8pm | NEC’s Jordan Hall
Chopin Sonata for Cello and Piano in G minor
Chopin Polonaise Brillante in C Major
Franck Sonata for Cello and Piano in A Major
Sponsored by Zachary Haroutunian and The Garbis & Arminé
Barsoumian Charitable Foundation
Media Partner
Sun | Apr 7 | 5pm
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra
Symphony Hall
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis & special guest Charles McPherson
The Music of McCoy and McPherson
In this performance, the Orchestra plays the music of two elder statesmen of jazz: pianist McCoy Tyner, who began his rise as a member of John Coltrane’s legendary quartet, and alto saxophonist Charles McPherson, best known for his work with Charles Mingus. Both artists are, of course, known for their individual accomplishments, and this concert will feature new big band arrangements of their compositions, plus the fiery alto work of Charles McPherson himself.
Sun | Apr 7 | 5pm | Symphony Hall
Subscriber Recognition Concert
David Sedaris
Symphony Hall
David Sedaris
One of America’s pre-eminent humor writers, “Sedaris's droll assessment of the mundane and the eccentrics who inhabit the world's crevices make him one of the greatest humorists writing today!” (Chicago Tribune) Join David Sedaris for an evening featuring new stories and observations and meet him during the book signing that follows his talk.
Wed | Apr 10 | 8pm | Symphony Hall
Sedaris has hit upon the narrative equivalent of Pepsi, or the PlayStation, or oxygen, or the haircut: something that others in the world might actually want and find useful… He’s smart, he’s caustic, he’s mordant, and, somehow, he’s…well, nice.”
Toronto Globe and Mail
Sat | Apr 13 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Top: Paul Lewis
Bottom: Australian Chamber Orchestra
Australian Chamber Orchestra with Paul Lewis
Paul Lewis piano
The Australian Chamber Orchestra–“an orchestra that, by any standards, is one of the wonders of the musical world today” (The Guardian)–returns to Boston for the first time since the 2006-07 season with the English pianist Paul Lewis. Mr. Lewis, a can’t-miss performer in his previous solo and chamber music recitals, makes his first Series appearance as an orchestral soloist when he joins the ACO, led by Richard Tognetti, for Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 12.
Sat | Apr 13 | 8pm | NEC’s Jordan Hall
Bach The Art of Fugue: Contrapunctus I-IV
Mozart Piano Concerto No. 12 in A Major, K.414
Beethoven String Quartet, Opus 130 (arr. for string orchestra)
Beethoven Grosse Fugue, Opus 133 (arr. for string orchestra)
Board of Overseers Annual Recognition Reception
Sun | Apr 14 | 7pm
Top Left: Esperanza Spalding
Top Right: Joe Lovano
Bottom Left: Jack DeJohnette
Bottom Right: Leo Genovese
Berklee Performance Center
The Spring Quartet
Jack DeJohnette, Joe Lovano, Esperanza Spalding, & Leo Genovese
Jack DeJohnette drums
Joe Lovano saxophones
Esperanza Spalding bass
Leo Genovese piano
NEA Master, Grammy Award winner, drummer, and composer Jack DeJohnette knows the multifaceted worlds of jazz and jazz-rock as thoroughly as anyone alive. Grammy Award winning saxophonist, composer, and producer Joe Lovano is fearless in finding new modes of artistic expression. Esperanza Spalding has always resolutely, intuitively, deftly expanded upon both her art and herself as a world-renowned genre-bending composer, bassist and vocalist. Argentinian pianist Leonardo Genovese has established a solid reputation as an instrumentalist and composer who is not afraid to explore the lesser known corners of the musical landscape. The Spring Quartet made its spectacular Boston debut on the Celebrity Series in 2014.
Sun | Apr 14 | 7pm | Berklee Performance Center
This is one supergroup that adds up to more than the sum of its chops.” The
Boston
Top: Itzhak Perlman
Bottom: Evgeny Kissin
Symphony Hall
Itzhak Perlman and Evgeny Kissin
Itzhak Perlman violin
Evgeny Kissin piano
Two superstars, one unforgettable concert. Don’t miss the magic when these longtime Celebrity Series favorites come together for a rare duo appearance.
Mon | Apr 22 | 8pm | Symphony Hall
Mozart Violin Sonata TBD
Brahms Violin Sonata No. 2 in A Major
Beethoven Violin Sonata No. 9 in A Major, “Kreutzer”
Patron Lounge
Sponsored by Melinda & James Rabb
Media Partner
Celebrity Series Gala
Save the Date: Saturday | April 27 | The Cyclorama
Join us for a spectacular evening that will celebrate the power of live performance in our community.
Patrons and community leaders will come together to applaud the artistic quality, variety and diversity of the Celebrity Series of Boston. We invite you to experience this innovative event that will delight guests with dramatic surprises.
All sponsors will receive priority seats, and recognition on the formal invitation, 2018-2019 performance programs and all Gala materials.
• Sponsor/Underwriter | $25,000 (10 Premier Seats)
• Table Sponsor | $10,000 (10 Priority Seats)
• Table Sponsor | $6,000 (6 Priority Seats)
• Ticket Sponsor | $1,000 (Priority Seating)
Proceeds from the evening will benefit the performance and community engagement programs of the Celebrity Series. To reserve ticket(s), simply include a contribution in the Gala section of your subscription order form or contact Emily Eagan at 617.598.3231. A portion of each ticket will be tax-deductible.
Sun | Apr 28 | 5pm
Top Left: Joshua Bell
Top Right: Steven Isserlis
Bottom: Jeremy Denk
Symphony Hall
Joshua Bell & Jeremy Denk & Steven Isserlis
Joshua Bell violin
Jeremy Denk piano
Steven Isserlis cello
Virtuosos, stars, standouts: of course the members of this trio excel as performers. But the three longtime friends and collaborators are also compelling communicators and ambassadors who have variously defined what it means to be a 21st century classical musician. Their joint performance promises masters at the top of their crafts, offering brilliant interplay and “magical intimacy” (The Strad).
Sun | Apr 28 | 5pm | Symphony Hall
Mendelssohn Trio TBD
Shostakovich Trio No. 2 in E minor
Rachmaninoff Trio élégiaque No. 1 in G minor
Ravel Trio in A minor
Sponsors Circle Reception
Patron Lounge
Media Partner
May 2-5
Boch Center Wang Theatre
Thur | 8pm
Fri | 8pm
Sat | 2pm
Sat | 8pm
Sun | 3pm
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
The infectious sense of joy and freedom of spirit that the Ailey company communicates with every electrifying work performed and every inspiring moment on stage by every brilliant dancer is a wonder. Don’t miss one of the most beloved dance companies in the world.
May 2-5 | Boch Center Wang Theatre
Thur | 8pm Fri | 8pm Sat | 2pm Sat | 8pm Sun | 3pm
I am trying to show the world that we are all human beings and that color is not important. What is important is the quality of our work.”
Alvin Ailey
The Dance Series is sponsored by The Stephanie L. Brown Foundation and The Cynthia & John S. Reed Foundation
Fri | May 3 | 8pm
NEC’s Jordan Hall
Philharmonix
Calling themselves The Vienna Berlin Music Club, this unique ensemble brings together three members of the Vienna Philharmonic, two Berlin Philharmonic soloists, one of the most versatile Austrian pianists and an improvising and singing violinist for a deliciously heady and high quality cocktail of classical, jazz, klezmer, Latin, and pop music. The Golden Rule of Philharmonix’ programs: anything goes, as long as it’s fun.
Fri | May 3 | 8pm | NEC’s Jordan Hall
…highest philharmonic quality and unrestrained joy of music-making.”
Kurier (Austria)
Sponsored by Sally Seaver, PhD
Media Partner
Fri | May 10 | 8pm
Top: Alfredo Rodríguez & Pedrito Martinez
Bottom: Arturo O'Farrill
Sanders Theatre
Alfredo RodrÍguez & Pedrito Martinez Duo and Arturo O'Farrill Quintet
Grammy-nominated artists Alfredo Rodríguez and Pedrito Martinez each bring a different approach to their duo performances. A protégé of Quincy Jones, Alfredo was schooled in the rigorous classical conservatories of Havana, while Pedrito’s musical training came directly from the streets of the Cayo Hueso neighborhood of Old Havana in which he was raised. Together, these two master musicians take listeners on a unique and exciting journey.
Joining the Duo in this double bill is Arturo O’Farrill, son of one of Cuba’s most famous bandleader, Chico O’Farrill. Celebrity Series audiences will recall his spectacular turn leading his Afro-Latin Jazz Ensemble with Malpaso Dance Company in 2016 and his Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra in 2015. Now appearing for the first time with his quintet, featuring his sons Adam on trumpet and Zack on drums, this two time Grammy Award winner keeps the family flame burning bright while breaking new ground in contemporary Latin Jazz.
Fri | May 10 | 8pm | Sanders Theatre
The Jazz Series is sponsored by Donna & Michael Egan Media Partner
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Create your own series, curate your own experience
Buy any number of tickets to any 3 events at any price level: it’s that simple. Enjoy a full season of great events and get exclusive subscriber benefits like ticket exchange and no per-ticket fees all season long.
Get seated early when you order during the Priority Seating period. After June 1, we begin seating subscription orders as we receive them, and good seats disappear quickly! Renewal orders are seated first, beginning with those choosing 7 or more events.
Priority Seating Renewal Deadline is Friday, June 1, 2018: after the deadline, subscriptions are seated in the order received.
Would you like the highest seating priority? Subscribers who also support Celebrity Series of Boston with a gift are seated ahead of nonsupporters. Become a supporter or renew your support to have access to the very best seats.
Order Today using our new and improved online subscription order form. We have made significant improvements to our online user experience, we think you’re going to love it! Our online subscription order form has been modified and streamlined for faster load times and an easier selection process. You'll find it at celebrityseries.org.
If you prefer paper…
If you prefer a paper order form and want to order by mail, contact the Celebrity Series box office or download a copy at celebrityseries.org.
Important Dates:
Priority Seating Deadline | Friday, June 1, 2018
Phone Orders Begin | Monday, June 4, 2018
Single Ticket (non-subscription) Sales Begin | Monday, September 10, 2018 (some events may go on sale earlier)
Deadline for subscription orders | Friday, October 5, 2018 (business day before the first performance of the season)
It only takes 3 events to enjoy these great benefits
Lock in Ticket Prices
Need more tickets during the season? Pay no fees and get the guaranteed subscriber price on all additional ticket purchases. Additional tickets must be purchased from Celebrity Series Box Office (price is guaranteed, but not ticket availability).
Save on Ticket Fees
When purchasing separately, 3 events for 2 people can cost anywhere from $35 to $100 in box office fees. When you subscribe, you pay a onetime fee of $15 for the whole season, no matter how many events you add during the season!
Exchange Tickets
Exchange tickets for another performance in the 2018–2019 season quickly and easily. If your plans change, just return your tickets to the Celebrity Series box office and choose another performance or event. Many organizations charge for this benefit. Celebrity Series subscribers get it for free.
Subscriber-only Waiting List access for sold-out events
Subscribers can get tickets for sold out performances with exclusive subscriber-only waiting lists. When other subscribers return tickets we go to this private subscriber-only list first to fill seats! (Not available for single ticket buyers)
Order Newly-Added Events Before the Public
Celebrity Series subscribers get early access to tickets for newly added events and the Holiday Offer before they go on sale to the general public. (Holiday Offer available starting in November)
Lost Ticket Protection
Lose your tickets? Not a problem. We have a record of all of your tickets. Just call the Celebrity Series Box Office for duplicate tickets or see a Celebrity Series representative at the performance venue.
Share the Arts with Your Children or Grandchildren
Get specially-priced child seats adjacent to your seats. Child tickets are available for a 50% discount per ticket for most events (limit 4 child tickets per event). See order form for specific performances.
Support
Together we do great things...
Did you know that the price of your tickets covers only 64% of the costs associated with bringing great performances to Boston and engaging our community in high quality performing arts programs?
Your gift to the Annual Fund supports all aspects of Celebrity Series programming. Every dollar is crucial to our work on stages, in schools, and in our community.
Include a gift with your subscription today! The benefits will last all season long.
Donor Benefits
All donors of $100 or more receive advanced priority seating by membership level, special donor-only pre-sale to new performances and the Holiday Offer, and special priority exchange privileges.
Patron Society Members ($100-$1,249)
Members of the Friend’s, Benefactor’s, and Arts Societies receive special invitations to the Subscriber reception and the Patron Society recognition event, recognition in performance programs and in BRAVO! annual magazine, and access to Patron Lounge receptions and select patron events. Benefits reflect Patron Society giving levels.
Dress Circle Members ($1,250 and above)
Dress Circle members receive all Patron Society benefits, plus concierge VIP ticketing service, access to premium seats reserved exclusively for Circle members, and invitations to exclusive events such as masterclasses and receptions with the artists. Benefits reflect Dress Circle giving levels.
Patron Events
Each season we carefully curate a series of events and activities to thank our most loyal supporters. This season, patrons will be invited to the following events and receptions:
Subscriber Recognition Concert
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra | Sunday, April 7, 2019
Patron Lounges
Patron Society
• Emanuel Ax, piano | Sunday, October 28, 2018
• Anthony Roth Costanzo, countertenor | Wednesday, November 7, 2018
• Dover Quartet | Wednesday, December 5, 2018
• Pablo Sáinz Villegas, guitar | Wednesday, January 23, 2019
• Beatrice Rana, piano | Wednesday, February 27, 2019
• San Francisco Symphony, Michael Tilson Thomas, Christian Tetzlaff | Sunday, March 24, 2019
• Cantus, vocal ensemble | Wednesday, April 3, 2019
• Itzhak Perlman and Evgeny Kissin | Monday, April 22, 2019
• Joshua Bell, Jeremy Denk, & Steven Isserlis | Sunday, April 28, 2019
Dress Circle Events
Celebrity Circle ($1,250 and above)
• Alan Cumming: Legal Immigrant | Sunday, October 7, 2018 | Reception
• San Francisco Symphony, Michael Tilson Thomas, Christian Tetzlaff | Sunday, March 24, 2019 | Dress Circle Dinner
President’s Circle ($2,500 and above)
• Annual Leadership Luncheon | Tuesday, September 25, 2018
• Australian Chamber Orchestra with Paul Lewis | Saturday, April 13, 2019 | Reception | Honoring the Board of Overseers
Sponsor’s Circle ($5,000 and above)
• Mark Morris Dance Group, Pepperland | Friday, February 8, 2019 | Reception
• Joshua Bell, Jeremy Denk, & Steven Isserlis | Sunday, April 28, 2019 | Reception
Celebrity Society
Mix and mingle with young professionals at networking meet-ups and after-parties with Celebrity Series Artists
Corporate Arts
Engage your company in world-class performances, networking events and community activities. Enjoy corporate visibility, employee benefits and complimentary tickets.
For more information about membership, contact Erica Leung Lawless, 617.598.3226 or el@celebrityseries.org or visit our website at celebrityseries.org.
Engage
Get involved in Celebrity Series’ Arts for All! community engagement programs!
Artist Connections
Master classes, lecture-demonstrations, and workshops bring Celebrity Series main stage artists to public schools, universities, and conservatories, offering students unparalleled access to the world’s greatest artists. Many are open to the public.
Neighborhood Arts
Boston area performing artists bring interactive workshops to youth in Dorchester, Hyde Park, Mattapan, Roslindale, Roxbury, and the South End and free concerts in neighborhood venues. Concerts are open to the public.
Public Performance Projects
Free, participatory projects offer the whole city the opportunity to create and experience live performance. Join us for Jazz Along The Charles: A Walkable Concert. On Sunday, September 23, 2018, 25 jazz ensembles will perform in 25 locations in a 2-mile loop on the Charles River Esplanade.
Take Your Seat
Celebrity Series offers Boston schools and community partners thousands of free and deeply discounted tickets to a variety of performances in our main stage season.
To learn more about Arts for All! and how you can support our work, please visit celebrityseries.org
Place your order now!
It takes only 3 events to enjoy the benefits that come with a subscription.
During the Priority Seating period, renewing orders are seated first, beginning with those choosing 7 events or more. Orders received before June 1, 2018 will receive priority seating. Some events will sell out.
Ways to Order Your Subscription
Online | Purchase online today at celebrityseries.org
By Mail | Download a paper order form at celebrityseries.org and send by mail Walk in | Bring your order to our office at 20 Park Plaza, Suite 1032, Boston (check-in with I.D. required)
Box Office Hours | Monday through Friday, 10am-4pm
Celebrity Series of Boston, Inc.
20 Park Plaza | Suite 1032 | Boston, MA 02116
Office: 617.482.2595 | Charge line: 617.482.6661 | Fax: 617.598.3291
Important Dates
Priority Seating Deadline | Friday, June 1, 2018
Phone Orders Begin | Monday, June 4, 2018
Single Ticket (non-subscription) Sales Begin | Monday, September 10, 2018 (some events may go on sale earlier)
Deadline for subscription orders | Friday, October 5, 2018 (business day before the first performance of the season)
Subscriber Ticketing Policies and Information
Exchanges
Subscriber exchanges must be completed by noon on the business day prior to the performance. Celebrity Series subscriber ticket exchanges and upgrades cannot be made at the venue box office or on the day of the performance. Subscribers may not exchange tickets from performances that have already taken place. Your new tickets will be mailed to you, or will be held at the venue box office if the performance is to take place in less than seven days.
Exchanges by mail, fax or email
• We recommend at least ten days for exchanges by mail. Be sure to send:
• The original tickets (or a voided scan/copy of the original tickets)
• Your name, address and daytime phone number
• Name, date and time of the performance you wish to attend
• Number of tickets you are requesting
If There is a Difference in Price…
If prices vary between the events you exchange and the new ticket price is lower, you will receive credit for future ticket purchases within the 2018-2019 performance season. If the new ticket price is higher, you will receive a request to remit the difference. To determine the difference, compare the price marked on your tickets with the price for the new event you wish to attend. The balance of your ticket credit must be used during the current season. Requests for refunds will not be honored. Any ticket credit not used by May 10, 2019 will be considered a tax-deductible contribution to the Celebrity Series of Boston.
Tax-deductible Ticket Donations
Subscribers who are unable to use tickets for a particular performance and do not wish to exchange to another performance may choose to donate the value of the tickets to the Celebrity Series. Tickets must be returned to the subscription office no later than noon on the business day prior to the ticketed performance. Subscribers who donate tickets will receive a tax receipt noting the value of the donation. Tax-deductible ticket donations cannot be made at the venue or on the day of the performance.
Child Subscription Tickets
Children must be ages 6-16 and accompanied by an adult subscriber attending the performance. Seats will be adjacent to adult subscriber seats. There is a limit of 4 child subscription tickets per event. You must subscribe as an adult to order child tickets. Child tickets may not be available after Priority Seating period.
Adding Tickets to Your Subscription
Additional tickets must be purchased by noon, one business day before the performance. Your subscriber discount cannot be used at the hall or on the day of the performance.
Waiting List
Subscribers who would like to purchase tickets to sold-out events may call the Celebrity Series to be placed on a waiting list for access to tickets returned by other subscribers. Access to the waiting list is by telephone only. You may request that your name be put on the list by calling the subscription office at 617.482.6661, Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm). We will advise you at that time how to arrange payment or exchange tickets.
As seats become available we will call you according to your place on the waiting list (and yes, this does happen!). If the sold-out performance is more than two weeks away, subscription services staff will leave your household a voicemail with descriptions of available seating locations and a deadline to return our call to purchase tickets. When the performance is less than two weeks away, we will notify you that seats have become available –with no guarantee–and may release the seats for sale to the general public. In the case of particularly in-demand performances, the Celebrity Series reserves the right to close subscriber waiting lists to additional names.
Refund Policy
Celebrity Series of Boston operates on a no-refund policy at all times, even in the case of inclement weather (unless a performance is canceled).
Per Event Ticket Limit
Due to the increasing number of ticket resellers operating in our market and for the protection of our customers, we have instituted a new policy for subscription orders, limiting each online order or paper order form order to a maximum of 6 tickets for any one engagement. If you wish to order more than 6 tickets for an engagement, please contact our box office at 617.482.6661, 10am-4pm, Monday-Friday.
ANY PERSON NOT LICENSED PURSUANT TO M.G.L. c. 140, § 185A RESELLING ANT TICKET THAT IS PART OF A SUBSCRIPTION TO THE CELEBRITY SERIES, AND ANY PERSON SO LICENSED RESELLING THIS TICKET ON AN AUCTION WEB SITE OR IN VIOLATION OF ANY APPLICABLE LAW, IS SUBJECT TO LOSS OF AND REVOCATION OF TICKET PRIVILEGES. Subscribers whose tickets are resold in violation of these prohibitions are subject to cancellation without notice or refund. The Celebrity Series retains the right to refuse to sell tickets to any person or entity that has been, or currently is, in violation of these prohibitions. The Celebrity Series expressly prohibits the use of tickets for advertising and promotional purposes (including contests and sweepstakes or other trade purposes) without express permission.
Venue Maps
Note: We cannot guarantee seating preference requests. Price and sections vary by event. Seating sections are valid for priority seating only and subject to change after June 1, 2018. Sections pictured are approximate. If you have questions about specific locations, call Celebrity Series
Box Office: 617.482.6661
Symphony Hall
301 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston
Pickman Hall, Longy School of Music of Bard College
27 Garden Street, Cambridge stage floor
Seating sections may vary by performance.
Boch Center Wang Theatre
270 Tremont Street, Boston left stage right
NEC’s Jordan Hall
30 Gainsborough Street, Boston
orchestra 1st balcony 2nd balcony right right
Sanders Theatre, Memorial
Hall, Harvard University
45 Quincy Street, Cambridge
NEC's Plimpton Shattuck Black Box Theatre
255 St. Botolph Street, Boston
Tickets for Plimpton Shattuck Black Box Theatre performances are general admission, no specific seats are assigned at time of sale Berklee
136
Boch Center Shubert Theatre
270 Tremont Street, Boston
Young Professionals
Celebrity Society
Make a splash at great performances and parties with Celebrity Society, the hottest club for young professional arts lovers in Boston. Celebrity Society is geared toward individuals ages 21-35 and offers robust membership offerings & activities.
Subscriptions
We are excited to launch our first Celebrity Society subscription for patrons 21-35. Purchase tickets to three select performances for only $60 and be seated with other young arts lovers. Subscriptions will be available for purchase at limited times throughout the year. The first one will begin July 2-20. For information about the program and to sign up, please contact Erica Leung Lawless, Senior Manager of Advancement and Patron Engagement at el@celebrityseries.org or call 617.598.3226
Special Events
Join members of our Celebrity Society and other young professionals for an event either before or after select performances. Visit our website for more details.
FAQs
What if something comes up and I can’t attend one of my selected performances?
No problem! As a subscriber, with advance notice you may exchange your tickets for another 2018/19 season performance. If you wish to exchange into a premium performance, the value of your tickets will be credited towards the market rate and you simple pay the difference.
Do I get to select my own seats?
Part of the impetus behind this program is to allow space for arts patrons in their 20s and 30s to meet each other. We do our best to seat all Celebrity Society Subscription holders in the same section so that you can easily socialize with each other before/after the show or at intermission.
What if I want to sit near my friend?
Let us know as soon as you realize both of you have tickets to the show and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
I have an accessibility request and/or required accommodation. What do I do?
Please request any accommodations including seating requirements when you sign up. Accommodations such as listening enhancement devices, wheelchair accessibility, and large print programs vary from venue to venue. For specific information, please contact us.
When do I get my tickets?
Tickets will be available under your name at the Celebrity Series table at the venue 60 minutes before the advertised performance start time. Please have your photo ID with you to claim your tickets.
To join the Celebrity Society, contact Erica Leung Lawless, Senior Manager of Advancement and Patron Engagement at el@celebrityseries.org or call 617.598.3226.
Mission & Vision
To Present World-Class Performing Artists Who Inspire And Enrich Our Community.
We believe in the power of excellence & innovation in the performing arts to enrich life experience, transform lives, and build better communities. We envision a community of Greater Boston where the performing arts are a valued, lifelong, shared experience–on stages, in schools, at homes–everywhere.
Celebrity Series thanks the many generous individuals, corporations, foundations, and government agencies that make our work possible. Please visit celebrityseries.org to learn more.
Celebrity Series of Boston is a 501(c)3, non-profit organization.
Cover photo: Sankofa Danzafro
Photos in this book were taken by John Abbott | Sergio Gonzalez Alverez | Satoshi Aoyagi, Gregory | Batardon | Janette Beckman | Jacob Blickenstaff | Marco Borggreve | Wolfgang Borrs | Felix Broede | Jiyang Chen | Adam DeTour | Laura Domela | Ian Douglas | Kim Fox | Harald Haffman | Curtis Johnson | Gareth Jones | Adam Kissick | Jesse Kitt | Gert Krautbauer | Shervin Lainez | Joseph Llanes | Eric Manas | Laura Mariet | Lisa Marie Mazzucco | Carlin Mazzucco | Jim McGuire | Amber Star Merkens | Matthew Murphy | Max Parovsky | Simon Pauly | Mark Shelby Perry | Luke Ratray | Rahi Rezvani | David J. Rowe | Brett Schewitz | Dariel Snead | Marie Staggat | Frank Stewart | Bill Swerbenski | Phillip Toledano | Robert Torres | Brian Voce | Michael Wilson | and Ascaf.
Celebrity Series Boards
Board of Directors
Joshua Boger, PhD | Chair+ Howard Appleby
Stephanie L. Brown+ Michael S. Canning+ Timothy W. Diggins
Margaret Eagle
Donna Egan+ Gabor Garai
Dr. Paul Goldenheim
Hannah M. Grove
Randolph Hawthorne | ex officio
Yvette Hochberg
Andrea Hoff
Jann E. Leeming+ James L. J. Nuzzo
Eleanor Y. Pao+ John Patterson
Leontyne Price | Honorary Director
Melinda Rabb
Sharon L. Rich* Lawrence Stifler*
Mary Elisabeth Swerz+
Belinda Termeer
Susan Thonis
Dorothy Altman Weber*
Janet Zwanziger*
Board Emeriti
Harris A. Berman, MD*
Caroline Collings
Benjamin H. Lacy
Robert I. Lurie
Norman C. Nicholson, Jr.
Walter W. Pierce*
Nancy Richmond Winsten*
Arnold B. Zetcher
Board of Overseers
Randolph Hawthorne | Chair
Bill Casey | Vice Chair
Leslie Appleby
Nadine Broude
Thomas Burger
Martin Carmichael*
+ Denotes Executive Committee
* Denotes 25+-year subscriber
Joseph C. Cefalu
Fernadina Chan
Donna E. Cohen
Stuart Cohen
Jolyon Cowan
Amy d'Ablemont Burnes
JoAnne Dickinson*
C. Nancy Fisher
Gail Flatto
Susan Y. Friedman
Kathleen Gaffney
Dr. Joan Goldberg*
Dr. Peter H. Gordon*
Harriet Griesinger
Teri Groome
Zachary R. Haroutunian
Stephen C. Harrison*
Ilisa Hurowitz
Cindy Lewiton Jackson
Maurice Joffe
Lisa Kelly-Croswell
Stephen Leonard*
Margot LeStrange*
Sarah Mars
Theresa C. McLoud, MD
Marilyn Miller*
Dr. Gordon Moore*
Stephen C. Perry*
Suzanne Priebatsch
Oliver Radford*
Michael Raizman*
Reuben Reynolds
Robin Richman, MD
Millard Rose
Abby Rosenfeld*
Howard Salwen*
Sally Seaver, PhD*
Sandra Shapiro*
Dr. Samuel J. Shubrooks, Jr.*
Joel A. Stein*
Marylen R. Sternweiler*
Jeffrey A. Thomson
Elizabeth G. Tréhu, MD
Paul Walsh
Sarah Rainwater Ward
Wendy L. Watson
Barnet Weinstein
Peter J. Wender*
