Wharton Center's 2019-2020 Season Brochure

EACH OF US HAS A STORY A story that begins with walking into Wharton Center. It could be the story of your first date, or when your grandparents took you to see a play for your 12th birthday, or the first time you discovered you loved jazz. These experiences inspire and can forever change us.

Wharton Center continues to offer experiences that will add to your story. The 2019-2020 season’s offerings can be found on the pages that follow. You will find opportunities to engage with performances in the seats or in workshops, opportunities to provide kids with their first exposure to the performing arts, and events that will introduce you to new and inspiring performances.

Now is the opportunity to join Wharton Center as a season subscriber or to renew your subscription. Becoming a season subscriber simply means you purchase all five Broadway events or five or more Performing Arts events. As a subscriber, you’re guaranteed priority seating to the events you choose with your subscription at a special subscriber rate. It also allows you to gain first access to events added throughout the year, ongoing savings on tickets, and special discounts at local retailers and restaurants with Wharton Center’s Subscriber Discount Card.

For more information on packages, pricing and seating priority, see the order form.

C O B B G R E AT H A L L SEPTEMBER 10-15, 2019

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY, 7:30PM THURSDAY, 7:30PM FRIDAY, 8PM SATURDAY, 2PM & 8PM SUNDAY, 1PM (

by request) & 6:30PM

Broadway’s Come From Away is a Best Musical winner

Don’t miss this breathtaking new musical written

all across North America! This New York Times Critics’

by Tony® nominees Irene Sankoff and David Hein,

Pick takes you into the heart of the remarkable true

and helmed by 2018 Tony® winning Best Director,

story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small

Christopher Ashley. Newsweek cheers, “It takes you to

town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. Cultures

a place you never want to leave!”

clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night, and gratitude

On 9/11, the world stopped.

grew into enduring friendships.

On 9/12, their stories moved us all.

East Lansing engagement welcomed by The Christman Company; and Delta Dental of Michigan.

FIRST NORTH AMERICAN TOUR OF COME FROM AWAY. PHOTO BY MATTHEW MURPHY.

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C O B B G R E AT H A L L N O V E M B E R 1 2 - 1 7, 2 0 1 9

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY, 7:30PM THURSDAY, 7:30PM FRIDAY, 8PM SATURDAY, 2PM & 8PM SUNDAY, 1PM (

by request) & 6:30PM

Cameron Mackintosh presents the new production

beloved songs “I Dreamed A Dream,” “On My Own,”

of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s

“Stars,” “Bring Him Home,” “One Day More” and

Tony® Award-winning musical phenomenon,

many others, this epic and uplifting story has become

Les Misérables, direct from the acclaimed two-

one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical

and-a-half-year return to Broadway. Set against

history. With its glorious new staging and dazzlingly

the backdrop of 19th-century France, Les Misérables

reimagined scenery inspired by the paintings of

tells an unforgettable story of heartbreak, passion,

Victor Hugo, this breathtaking new production has

and resilience of the human spirit. Featuring the

left both audiences and critics awestruck. “Les Miz is born again!”(NY1)

East Lansing engagement welcomed by Clark Trombley Randers Consulting Engineers; Farm Bureau Insurance; Grewal Law PLLC; Jackson National Life Insurance Company; and Warner Norcross + Judd LLP. THE COMPANY OF LES MISÉRABLES PERFORMS “ONE DAY MORE.” PHOTO BY MATTHEW MURPHY.

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C O B B G R E AT H A L L D E C E M B E R 4 - 1 0* , 2 0 1 9 Discover a whole new world at Disney’s Aladdin, the hit Broadway musical. From the producer of

The Lion King comes the timeless story of Aladdin, a thrilling new production filled with unforgettable beauty, magic, comedy and breathtaking spectacle.

It’s an extraordinary theatrical event where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite. See why audiences and critics agree, Aladdin is “Exactly What You Wish For!” (NBC-TV).

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY, 7:30PM THURSDAY, 2PM THURSDAY, 7:30PM FRIDAY, 8PM SATURDAY, 2PM & 8PM SUNDAY, 1PM (

by request) & 6:30PM

East Lansing engagement welcomed by The Christman Company; Farm Bureau Insurance; Jackson National Life Insurance Company; Retailers Insurance Company; and Rick’s American Café/Harrison Roadhouse/Beggar’s Banquet.

*SUBSCRIBER PERFORMANCES

FRIEND LIKE ME 2. MICHAEL JAMES SCOTT (GENIE) & ENSEMBLE. PHOTO BY DEEN VAN MEER. © DISNEY.

DISNEY’S ALADDIN FULL RUN: DECEMBER 4-15

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C O B B G R E AT H A L L F E B R U A RY 2 6 - M A R C H 1 , 2 0 2 0 From Lincoln Center Theater, that brought you The King & I and

South Pacific, comes “a sumptuous new production of the most perfect musical of all time” (Entertainment Weekly), Lerner & Loewe’s My Fair Lady. Director Bartlett Sher’s glowing production is “thrilling, glorious and better than it ever was” (New York Times).

“Every so often a revival comes along that reminds you how indispensable great theater can be” (NY1).

Boasting such classic songs as “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “The Rain in Spain,” “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly” and “On the Street Where You Live,” My Fair Lady tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to transform her into his idea of a “proper lady.” But who is really being transformed?

WEDNESDAY, 7:30PM THURSDAY, 7:30PM FRIDAY, 8PM

East Lansing engagement welcomed by Auto-Owners Insurance; Honigman, LLP; Mayberry Homes; Palmer, Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes; Portnoy and Tu, DDS, PC; and Tri-Star Trust Bank.

SATURDAY, 2PM & 8PM SUNDAY, 1PM (

ORIGINAL BROADWAY CAST LAUREN AMBROSE AS ELIZA DOOLITTLE IN LINCOLN CENTER THEATER’S MY FAIR LADY. PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS.

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by request) & 6:30PM

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY, 7:30PM THURSDAY, 7:30PM FRIDAY, 8PM

C O B B G R E AT H A L L JUNE 16-21, 2020

SATURDAY, 2PM & 8PM SUNDAY, 1PM (

by request) & 6:30PM

WINNER OF SIX 2017 TONY AWARDS® INCLUDING BEST

Dear Evan Hansen has struck a remarkable chord

MUSICAL AND THE 2018 GRAMMY AWARD FOR BEST

with audiences and critics everywhere, including

MUSICAL THEATER ALBUM.

The Washington Post, who says Dear Evan Hansen

®

is “one of the most remarkable shows in musical A letter that was never meant to be seen, a lie that

theatre history.” The New York Times calls it “a gut-

was never meant to be told, a life he never dreamed

punching, breathtaking knockout of a musical.” And

he could have. Evan Hansen is about to get the

NBC Nightly News declares the musical “an anthem

one thing he’s always wanted: a chance to finally

resonating on Broadway and beyond.”

fit in. Dear Evan Hansen is the deeply personal and profoundly contemporary musical about life and the

Dear Evan Hansen features a book by Tony Award®

way we live it.

winner Steven Levenson, a score by Grammy®, Tony® and Academy Award® winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (La La Land, The Greatest Showman), and direction by four-time Tony Award® nominee Michael

BEN LEVI ROSS AS ‘EVAN HANSEN’ AND JESSICA PHILLIPS AS ‘HEIDI HANSEN’ IN THE FIRST NORTH

Greif (Rent, Next to Normal).

AMERICAN TOUR OF DEAR EVAN HANSEN. PHOTO BY MATTHEW MURPHY.

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SPECIAL ENGAGEMENT

C O B B G R E AT H A L L APRIL 1-7*, 2020

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY, 7:30PM THURSDAY, 7:30PM FRIDAY, 8PM SATURDAY, 2PM & 8PM SUNDAY, 1PM (

by request) & 6:30PM

*SUBSCRIBER PERFORMANCES

WICKED FULL RUN: APRIL 1-19

So much happened before Dorothy dropped in.

unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.”

Wicked, the Broadway sensation, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different

From the first electrifying note to the final

angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another

breathtaking moment, Wicked—the untold true story

young woman, born with emerald-green skin—smart,

of the Witches of Oz—transfixes audiences with its

fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary

wildly inventive story that USA Today cheers is “a

talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is

complete triumph! An original musical that will make

exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the

you laugh, cry, and think.”

East Lansing engagement welcomed by Auto-Owners Insurance; Delta Dental of Michigan; Grewal Law PLLC; and Jackson National Life Insurance Company.

JACKIE BURNS AS ELPHABA IN WICKED. PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS.

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CLASSICAL

EMERSON ST R I N G Q UA RT E T

IMANI WINDS

C O B B G R E AT H A L L F R I D AY, O C T O B E R 1 8 , 2 0 1 9, 8 P M

C O B B G R E AT H A L L F R I D AY, N O V E M B E R 8 , 2 0 1 9, 8 P M

“…with musicians like this there must be some hope

“Beautiful…stark, aggressive, ethereal,

for humanity.”

playful, thoughtful” —Houston Culture Map

—The Times (London)

The Emerson String Quartet stands on its own in

Over the course of their 20+ year career, Imani Winds

the history of string quartets, having amassed an

has discovered what audiences value most from their

unparalleled list of achievements over four decades:

concerts: a sense of connection—with the music, the

more than thirty acclaimed recordings, nine

performers, the composers, the artistry and beyond.

Grammys®, three Gramophone Awards, the

Seamlessly navigating between classical, jazz and

Avery Fisher Prize, Musical America’s Ensemble of

world music, no other quintet has forged such a

the Year and collaborations with many of the greatest

unique, dynamic path through the chamber music

artists of our time. This groundbreaking ensemble

landscape. Their clear commitment to promoting

has a well-earned place in the music world. Returning

diversity in the arts, while still embracing the tradition

to Wharton Center after 10 years, this special

of the wind quintet repertoire, yields a powerful

performance features Haydn’s charming String

marriage of the past and the present.

Quartet in D Major, “The Frog” (named for

The performance features Ligeti’s spirited Six

the clever arrangement in the finale); Dvorák’s

Bagatelles, Reena Esmail’s India-inspired The Light is

popular folk music inspired String Quartet No. 10 in

the Same, John Harbison’s graceful, melodic Quintet

E-flat Major, Op. 51; and Beethoven’s emotion-

for Winds, Lalo Shifrin’s jazz-inspired La Nouvelle

filled and technically acrobatic “Razumovsky”

Orleans and more.

Quartet, Op. 59, No. 2.

Sponsored by MSU Federal Credit Union.

Media sponsor: WKAR.

Sponsored by MSU Federal Credit Union.

Media Sponsor: WKAR.

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J O N AT H A N B I S S P L AY S B E E T H O V E N C O B B G R E AT H A L L W E D N E S D AY, J A N UA RY 8 , 2 0 2 0 , 7 : 3 0 P M F R I D AY, J A N UA RY 1 0 , 2 0 2 0 , 8 P M

J A N UA RY 8 P E R F O R M A N C E :

Two breathtaking, all-Beethoven programs of solo

Piano Sonata No. 15 in D Major, “Pastoral”

piano treasures with American piano phenomenon

Piano Sonata No. 20 in G Major, Op. 49, No. 2

Jonathan Biss. A true virtuoso, Biss is widely hailed

Piano Sonata No. 3 in C Major, Op. 2, No. 3

for his deeply felt musical interpretations and award-winning recordings, approaching music with

Piano Sonata No. 27 in E minor, Op. 90

a scholar’s curiosity and a master storyteller’s knack

Piano Sonata No. 28 in A Major, Op. 101

for captivating the ears and minds of his audience.

These very special performances are part of the

J A N UA RY 1 0 P E R F O R M A N C E :

pianist’s years-long celebration of Beethoven’s piano sonatas, recording all 32 sonatas and performing

Piano Sonata No. 6 in F Major, Op. 10, No. 2

them around the world. From the brilliant lightness

Piano Sonata No. 10 in G Major, Op. 14, No. 2

of Beethoven’s “Pastoral” Piano Sonata, the playful yet deeply emotional “Hunt” Sonata, to the

Piano Sonata No. 18 in E-flat Major, Op. 31, No. 3, “The Hunt”

‘Hammerklavier,” considered one of Beethoven’s most important works and one of the greatest

Piano Sonata No. 29 in B-flat Major, Op. 106, “Hammerklavier”

piano sonatas of all time.

Sponsored by MSU Federal Credit Union with additional support from Comprehensive Psychological Services, PC. Media Sponsor: WKAR.

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A C A D E M Y O F S T M A RT I N IN THE FIELDS

S TO R M L A RG E A N D M I C H A E L F E I N S T E I N:

J O S H U A B E L L D I R E C TO R A N D V I O L I N

SHAKEN AND STIRRED

C O B B G R E AT H A L L M O N D AY, F E B RUA RY 2 4, 2 0 2 0 , 7 : 3 0 P M

C O B B G R E AT H A L L S AT U R D AY, O C T O B E R 1 2 , 2 0 1 9, 8 P M

One of the world’s leading chamber orchestras, the

Five-time Grammy® nominated artist Michael

Academy of St Martin in the Fields is known for its

Feinstein is well known as the Ambassador of the

extraordinary performances and award-winning

Great American Songbook. Lauded for his Emmy©

recordings. The ensemble is led by violin superstar

nominated PBS specials, NPR series and concerts

Joshua Bell, hailed by The Boston Globe as “the

spanning the globe, Feinstein delighted audiences

greatest American violinist active today,” in a

in his last appearance at Wharton Center nearly 10

performance featuring Brahms’ last symphony and

years ago. He joins forces with vocal powerhouse

possibly his greatest, the majestic Fourth Symphony.

and force to be reckoned with, Storm Large, for an

The evening also includes Paganini’s Violin Concerto

unforgettable evening of music. Storm Large, the

No. 1, a musical firework of a piece that must be

longtime lead singer of popular music group Pink

heard live, especially performed by Joshua Bell.

Martini, and Feinstein will pay tribute to a wide range of artists such as Al Green, Frank Sinatra, Nat King

Sponsored by MSU Federal Credit Union with additional support from Brogan, Reed, Van Gorder & Associates/Ohio National Financial Services; and ProAssurance Casualty Company.

Cole, James Taylor, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson

Media Sponsor: WKAR.

and many others, joined by a stellar five-piece band.

Sponsored by The Doctors Company with additional support from Foresight Group; Plante Moran, PLLC; and Wolverine Development Corporation.

Media Sponsor: Michigan Radio.

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B E PA R T O F T H E S T O RY Waiting in the audience for the opening of a Broadway blockbuster, feeling the buzz of anticipation. Standing in the lobby, waiting to cheer for a child who just stepped onstage for the first time. Leaping to your feet to offer a standing ovation to a brilliant musician.

The inspiring performances and innovative education programs leave each of us with a story to tell. Sharing our stories and experiencing art together is part of a richer and more purposeful life. Your support makes that possible. Give today and become a part of the story.

B ECO M E A C I RC L E M E M B E R Your ongoing commitment sustains programming

Your gift to the Seats 4 Kids Scholarship Fund will

and keeps ticket prices affordable. In recognition, you

help ensure more children have their own story to tell

receive benefits* such as:

by providing free tickets to economically-challenged youth and families. Individuals with autism spectrum

• Priority seating before the general public.

disorder and their families also receive free tickets

• Access to our private Donor Lounge.

through this fund to attend Sensory-Friendly

• The opportunity to meet the cast at post-

Performances.

performance receptions.

Please support Seats 4 Kids today with a gift on

Add your gift to the order form or donate online at

your order form.

whartoncenter.com/support. *Benefits do not apply to all membership levels. Please refer to Circle Membership Level overview at: whartoncenter.com/support/individual/circle-membership.

C R E AT E A L A ST I N G IMPRESSION

CHANGE A LIFE

Wharton Center is constantly performing needed

Remember sitting on the edge of your seat in a big

maintenance and upgrades to our facility. These

theater, watching the magic of a musical unfold in

projects are costly, but essential to our artists and

front of you? Or watching your child see a live show

your experience as a patron. Your gift to Wharton

for the first time, eyes wide, feet not yet touching

Center’s Facility Fund supports facility projects and

the floor?

sustains Wharton Center as a high-quality performing arts center we all can enjoy.

Wharton Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. To learn more about these programs and other ways to inspire and connect with our community through Wharton Center, please visit whartoncenter.com/support

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W E S H A L L OV E RCO M E

BL ACK VIOLIN

A C E L E B R AT I O N O F D R . M A R T I N LU T H E R K I N G , J R .

C O B B G R E AT H A L L W E D N E S D AY, O C T O B E R 1 6 , 2 0 1 9, 7 : 3 0 P M

C O B B G R E AT H A L L F R I D AY, F E B RUA RY 1 4, 2 0 2 0 , 8 P M

“Their music will keep classical music alive for the

Inspired by the words and actions of Dr. Martin Luther

next generation.”

—NPR

King, Jr., “We Shall Overcome” showcases repertoire from across the African-American music traditions

To most people, jazz, hip-hop, funk, and classical

that electrified generations of civil rights activists

are musical genres. But to revolutionary music group

and defenders with interwoven spoken word from

Black Violin, they’re nothing but ingredients.

Dr. King’s recorded speeches. Producer and Musical

Combining a daunting array of musical styles and

Director Damien Sneed’s production ties together

influences to produce a signature sound that is not

a living lineage of music and culture that includes

quite maestro, not quite emcee, this group of

traditional gospel, modern gospel, classical, jazz,

two classically trained musicians and their DJ is

Broadway and spirituals with sensational vocalists

redefining the music world one string at a time.

and a stellar band.

Sponsored by The Doctors Company.

Media Sponsor: Michigan Radio.

Back by demand, Black Violin is composed of classically trained violist Wil B. and violinist Kev Marcus, who combine their classical training and hip-hop influences to create a distinctive multi-genre sound that is often described as “classical boom.”

Sponsored by The Doctors Company with additional support from Lansing Board of Water and Light.

Media sponsor: Michigan Radio.

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TAO: D RU M H E A RT C O B B G R E AT H A L L F R I D AY, M A RC H 1 3 , 2 0 2 0 , 8 P M

“Extraordinarily talented…incomparable muscular zeal” —Chicago Tribune

“Undoubtedly one of the finest shows on offer” —Edinburgh Evening News

An athletic ensemble and dazzling costumes meet explosive Taiko drumming and innovative choreography.

With hundreds of sold-out events and more than a million spectators, TAO’s traditional art of Japanese drumming combined with spectacular modern effects has audiences clamoring for more. The performers live and train at a compound in the mountains of Japan, reaching the highest level of virtuosity after years of intensive study. They offer a young and vibrantly modern take on a traditional art form.

Sponsored by The Doctors Company.

Media Sponsor: Michigan Radio.

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DAV I N A & T H E VAG A B O N D S A N D H OT C LU B O F C O W TO W N:

T H E K L E Z M AT I C S

THE FINEST HOUR Celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Music That Ended WWII

PA S A N T T H E AT R E T H U R S D AY, M A RC H 26 , 2 0 2 0 , 7 : 3 0 P M

C O B B G R E AT H A L L W E D N E S D AY, M AY 1 3 , 2 0 2 0 , 7 : 3 0 P M

“a complete joy”

—All Music Guide

“Davina is a modern day, female version of Louis Armstrong.”

—Elmore Magazine

The Klezmatics are globally-renowned world music superstars — and the only klezmer band to win a

“The timing, swing, and chemistry of [Hot Club of

Grammy Award®. The Klezmatics emerged out of the

Cow town] is a joy to behold.”

—Guitarist

vibrant cultural scene of New York City’s East Village in 1986, with klezmer steeped in Eastern European

The music of World War II, anchored by swing, Big

Jewish tradition and spirituality, while incorporating

Band and jazz, helped define an era when nations

contemporary themes such as human rights and

clashed around the world. With music focusing on

eclectic musical influences including Arab, African,

romance and strength, along with the proliferation of

Latin and Balkan rhythms, jazz and punk. In the

the radio, music built morale and provided comfort

course of over twenty years and nine albums, they

to soldiers and civilians alike. And for those without

have continued making music that is wild, mystical,

access to a radio, the U.S. War Department sent

provocative, reflective and ecstatically danceable.

recordings overseas for soldiers. “We’re making these V-Discs just for you,” the Andrews Sisters say on a

Sponsored by The Doctors Company.

disc addressing U.S. troops. “And along with them, we

Media Sponsor: Michigan Radio.

wanna send all our love and kisses” in a recording of “The Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.” This very special performance joins two spectacular groups: Davina and the Vagabonds, who brought the house down in their debut at Wharton Center in 2018, and the swinging music of the Hot Club of Cowtown.

They come together and step into a wondrous musical time machine to cut a rug, celebrate the Greatest Generation, and hear the music that got us through.

Sponsored by The Doctors Company with additional support from Governmental Consultant Services; and L.O. Eye Care.

Media sponsor: Michigan Radio.

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JAZZ

K E I KO M AT S U I

K E N N Y B A R RO N T R I O & S E A N J O N E S Q UA RT E T

PA S A N T T H E AT R E F R I D AY, O C T O B E R 2 5 , 2 0 1 9, 8 P M

C O B B G R E AT H A L L T H U R S D AY, J A N UA RY 3 0 , 2 0 2 0 , 7 : 3 0 P M

“Keiko Matsui is appreciated not just as an artist

A National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master,

but as a humanitarian. She dedicates every song she

Kenny Barron has an unmatched ability to mesmerize

writes to causes that move her…”

audiences with his elegant playing, sensitive melodies

—NPR

and infectious rhythms. Hailed as “One of the top “My melodies are my living testimony,” declares

jazz pianists in the world” by the LA Times and “The

internationally acclaimed pianist, composer and

most lyrical piano player of our time” by Jazz Weekly,

humanitarian Keiko Matsui. A world citizen, Matsui’s

the chance to experience this jazz legend live is one

music speaks to the hearts and souls of fans around

not to miss. Barron is joined by his stellar trio partners

the world, transcending borders and building bridges

Kiyoshi Kitagawa on bass and Johnathan Blake on

among people who share a common appreciation

drums. The performance starts off with trumpet wiz

of honest artistry and cultural exchange. A master

Sean Jones and the Sean Jones Quartet. No stranger

storyteller, Keiko Matsui crafts passionate and

to Wharton Center audiences, Jones was lead

emotive songs with lush harmonies and global

trumpet with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra

rhythms to create timeless musical anthems.

for many years and toured extensively with Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter. As a bandleader, he

Sponsored by MSU Federal Credit Union.

records with Detroit’s own Mack Avenue Records.

Experience the best in jazz with this very special performance!

Sponsored by MSU Federal Credit Union.

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THE ATRE A New York Times Critics’ Pick and the Scotsman Fringe First Award at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival

An irreverent, fast-paced romp through the Bard’s

(and recurrent sold-out seasons at the Fringe

plays, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare

Festival), Basic Training is a theatrical mix of

(Abridged) [Revised] was London’s longest-running

storytelling, breakdancing, redemption and comedy.

comedy, clocking a very palpable nine years in

This outstanding one-man show by Kahlil Ashanti

London’s West End! Join these madcap men in

tells the true story of his hilarious experience as a

tights as they weave their wicked way through all

member of a military entertainment troupe, Tops in

of Shakespeare’s Comedies, Histories and Tragedies

Blue. As Ashanti begins a new life in the U.S. Air Force,

in one wild ride that will leave you breathless and

a shocking revelation forces his attention home to

helpless with laughter. In the spirit of Shakespeare

face a childhood he’s trying to leave behind. Twenty-

himself, RSC shows contain some occasional bawdy

three unforgettable characters guide you through

language and mild innuendo.

this incredible true tale of survival and redemption, all experienced through Ashanti’s rapid-fire physical

RSC has chosen to rate its shows PG-13: Pretty Good If You’re Thirteen.

talent and comedy. Best suited for ages 14 and up.

REDUCED SHAKESPEARE C O M PA N Y

THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM S H A K E S P E A R E ( A B R I D G E D) [R E V I S E D]

BASIC TR AINING

PA S A N T T H E AT R E W E D N E S D AY, N O V E M B E R 2 0 , 2 0 1 9, 7 : 3 0 P M T H U R S D AY, N O V E M B E R 2 1 , 2 0 1 9, 7 : 3 0 P M

PA S A N T T H E AT R E T H U R S D AY, J A N UA RY 3 0 , 2 0 2 0 , 7 : 3 0 P M F R I D AY, J A N UA RY 31 , 2 0 2 0 , 8 P M Media Sponsor: Michigan Radio.

“If you like Shakespeare, you’ll like this show. If you hate Shakespeare, you’ll love this show!”

—The Today Show Media Sponsor: Michigan Radio.

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ILLUMINATE The performing arts entertain, tell stories, and create connections. These Illuminate performances explore the complexities and frailties of human interaction.

T H R I L L M E:

THE LEOPOLD & LO E B S TO RY Book, Music and Lyrics by Stephen Dolginoff Directed by Bert Goldstein A Wharton Center Theatre Production

O F E Q UA L P L A C E:

I S OTO P E S I N M OT I O N

PA S A N T T H E AT R E S AT U R D AY, M A RC H 2 1 , 2 0 2 0 , 1 : 0 0 P M

PA S A N T T H E AT R E F E B RUA RY 1 2 - 1 6 , 2 0 2 0 W E D N E S D AY A N D T H U R S D AY, 7 : 3 0 P M F R I D AY, 8 P M A N D S U N D AY, 1 : 3 0 P M

Of Equal Place: Isotopes in Motion will present an exhilarating performance that combines dance,

“A brilliant, unforgettable musical…Sends chills down

video, and physics while featuring professional

the spine. Intoxicating.”

dancers and guest performances by local youth.

—Talkin’ Broadway

The show highlights the wonders of science and A potent tale from history with a twist of artistic

illuminates the research at the Facility for Rare

focus as it traces the hopes, fears, dreams and

Isotope Beams (FRIB) and was inspired by Dance

desires of Nathan Leopold. In flashback, Leopold tells

Exchange’s critically acclaimed work The Matter

the parole board how he and Richard Loeb planned

of Origins. Following the performance, audience

what they considered to be the perfect crime—with

members are invited to participate in a series of

horrifying results. Exploring the power dynamics and

activities which explore dance, physics, and FRIB.

manipulation between the two, Thrill Me features

Performed by Dance Exchange and Happendance

haunting music and taut dialogue as the complicated

and co-directed by Elizabeth Johnson and Keith

web created by Chicago’s notorious “thrill killers”

Thompson, in collaboration with Wharton Center

unfolds. This Wharton Center Theatre Production

Institute for Arts & Creativity and Women & Minorities

features unique minimalist staging with some of

in the Physical Sciences. Underwritten by the Facility

the audience sharing the Pasant stage with the

for Rare Isotope Beams at Michigan State University

performers. Contains adult themes and situations.

with additional support by MSU University Outreach

Best suited for ages 15 and up.

and Engagement, Science and Society at MSU

Sponsored by University Outreach & Engagement with additional support from April Clobes & Glen Brough; and Jack & Susan Davis.

and Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation.

Tickets available later in the season.

W H A R T O N

C E N T E R

16

2 0 1 9 – 2 0 2 0

S E A S O N

ACT ONE

THE JUNGLE BOOK

DINO -LIGHT

PA S A N T T H E AT R E S AT U R D AY, N O V E M B E R 2 , 2 0 1 9 1:30PM AND 4PM

C O B B G R E AT H A L L S AT U R D AY, J A N UA RY 2 5 , 2 0 2 0 1:30PM AND 4PM

Recommended for ages 6-10

Recommended for ages 6-11

From the creators of Twenty Thousand Leagues Under

In this original storyline, a famous scientist with

the Sea comes a new theatrical adaptation of Rudyard

magic powers brings a friendly dinosaur to life. When

Kipling’s Jungle Book, re-imagining the classic stories

the dinosaur wanders away from home, he discovers

through modern eyes to transport audiences to the

a wonderful world full of creatures that light up the

world’s jungles. Using a rich soundscape and immersive

darkness and help him find the true meaning of love.

multimedia, Jungle Book features your favorite

This glow-in-the-dark adventure is visually amazing

characters like you’ve never seen them before as it

and has been praised for its cutting-edge blend of

delves deep into the original themes of the story, like

puppetry, technology and dance by audiences all

our relationships to the animal kingdom.

over the world.

D O G M A N: T H E M U S I C A L

Presented by Theatreworks USA

MISS NELSON HAS A F I E L D DAY

C O B B G R E AT H A L L S AT U R D AY, M A RC H 1 4, 2 0 2 0 1:30PM AND 4PM S U N D AY, M A RC H 1 5 , 2 0 2 0 , 1 : 3 0 P M

PA S A N T T H E AT R E S AT U R D AY, A P R I L 2 5 , 2 0 2 0 1:30PM AND 4PM S U N D AY, A P R I L 26 , 2 0 2 0 , 1 : 3 0 P M

Recommended for ages 6-11

Recommended for ages 5-11

A hilarious new musical based on The New York Times

This fun-filled musical, featuring the Dallas Children’s

#1 bestselling series from Dav Pilkey featuring the

Theatre, takes us to Horace B. Smedley School where

crime-biting canine who is part dog, part man and

the Smedley Tornadoes have never won a football

ALL HERO! He’s ready to take on Petey the Cat, the

game. In fact, they have never even scored a single

felonious feline who’s always hacking up harebrained

point! With such a poor record and a team that is out

schemes. Songs for the show by Kevin Del Aguila, a New

of control, kind-hearted Miss Nelson comes to the

York Outer Critics Circle Award nominee for Altar Boyz,

rescue when she enlists the help of her alter ego, the

and Brad Alexander, an Emmy winner for Peg + Cat.

ill-tempered Miss Viola Swamp, to coach the team

©

and whip them into shape.

Sponsored by Jackson National Life Insurance Company; Michigan State Medical Society; Piper & Gold Public Relations; and SuttonAdvisors, PLC. Media sponsor: WKAR. W H A R T O N

C E N T E R

17

2 0 1 9 – 2 0 2 0

S E A S O N

DANCE

PILOB OLUS

PA R S O N S D A N C E

C O B B G R E AT H A L L W E D N E S D AY, O C T O B E R 3 0 , 2 0 1 9, 7 : 3 0 P M

C O B B G R E AT H A L L S AT U R D AY, F E B RUA RY 2 2 , 2 0 2 0 , 2 P M S AT U R D AY, F E B RUA RY 2 2 , 2 0 2 0 , 8 P M

Part dance, part acrobatics, part Cirque du Soleil, the internationally-renowned dance company Pilobolus

The exuberant personality and joyous movement of

clearly stands out from other dance companies. The

Parsons Dance fuses the movement of modern dance

dancers’ mind-blowing athleticism, combined with

with the discipline and precision of a classic ballet

their unique contortions of human form and the

company. Known for engaging and uplifting works of

way they leap, fly and intertwine with each other

incredible artistry, Parsons Dance was formed by

seem to break all rules of physical ability. It’s that

dance legend David Parsons, whom The New York

sort of un-traditionalism that defines the Pilobolus

Times called “one of the great movers of modern

experience. “If the dance world has a summer movie

dance.” This athletic ensemble creates a spirited

blockbuster equivalent, it must be Pilobolus,” writes

evening of dance for all ages.

the Associated Press. Pilobolus has been seen virtually everywhere, from the Academy Awards® to

“Parsons and his company are one of the hottest

advertisements, TV programs and a featured story on

tickets in contemporary dance… they are all

60 Minutes. Now in its 48th season, Pilobolus makes

terrific performers, energized…Parsons provides

its long-awaited return to Wharton Center for one

choreography that’s consistently intelligent, witty,

night only.

well-crafted, and humane.“

Sponsored by MSU Federal Credit Union.

Sponsored by MSU Federal Credit Union.

W H A R T O N

C E N T E R

18

2 0 1 9 – 2 0 2 0

S E A S O N

—The Toronto Star

ROYA L W I N N I P E G B A L L E T: T H E W I Z A R D O F OZ C O B B G R E AT H A L L W E D N E S D AY, M A RC H 2 5 , 2 0 2 0 , 7 : 3 0 P M

L. Frank Baum’s tale of family, friendship and courage is vividly brought to life by choreographer Septime Webre in The Wizard of Oz. In this gorgeously imagined production, join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion as they journey down the Yellow Brick Road to the Emerald City with stunning sets, costumes, puppetry, projections and music.

Story lines and visual elements from the classic motion picture The Wizard of Oz provided by Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures.

Sponsored by The Doctors Company with additional support from Maner Costerisan.

W H A R T O N

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19

2 0 1 9 – 2 0 2 0

S E A S O N

ENGAGEMENT EVENTS SPOTLIGHT DINNERS: Enjoy a delicious buffet meal while learning about the evening’s program prior to the following performances. The price for each dinner is $55.00 – order with your subscription.

Come From Away Wednesday, September 11, 2019 We Shall Overcome Friday, February 14, 2020

INSIGHT PREVIEWS: Don’t miss FREE pre-performance informative talks presented by topic experts or company members 45 minutes prior to these events: Emerson String Quartet Friday, October 18, 2019 Imani Winds Friday, November 08, 2019 Kenny Barron Trio & Sean Jones Quartet

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Basic Training Friday, January 31, 2020 Thrill Me Thursday, February 13, 2020 The Klezmatics Thursday, March 26, 2020 Davina & The Vagabonds and Hot Club of Cowtown Wednesday, May 13, 2020

A F T E R C H AT S : Join conversations with artists* inside the theatre immediately following each Thursday Broadway performance, and after these events: Broadway performances Thursday evenings Pilobolus Wednesday, October 30, 2019 Basic Training Thursday, January 30, 2020 Thrill Me Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Parsons Dance (evening performance)

Saturday, February 22, 2020

*Please note that performer participants will vary. Wharton Center does not guarantee any specific artist or company member’s participation.

See whartoncenter.com for schedule changes and updates throughout the season. No need to RSVP for Insight Previews or After Chats.

W H A R T O N

C E N T E R

20

2 0 1 9 – 2 0 2 0

S E A S O N

SEASON CALENDAR SEP TEMBER 2019

10-15

Come From Away

O CTOBER 2019

J A N UA RY 2 0 2 0

M A RC H 2 0 2 0

8 & 10

Jonathan Biss Plays Beethoven

1

My Fair Lady

25

Act One: Dino-Light

13

Tao: Drum Heart

30

Kenny Barron Trio & Sean Jones Quartet

14

Act One: Dogman the Musical

15

Act One: Dogman the Musical: SF*

30-31

Basic Training

21

Illuminate: Of Equal Place: Isotopes in Motion

25

Royal Winnipeg Ballet: The Wizard of Oz

26

The Klezmatics

12

Michael Feinstein and Storm Large: Shaken and Stirred

16

Black Violin

18

Emerson String Quartet

F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 0

25

Keiko Matsui

30

Pilobolus

12-16

Illuminate: Thrill Me: The Leopold & Loeb Story

14

We Shall Overcome: A Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Act One: Jungle Book

22

Parsons Dance: SF*

8

Imani Winds

22

Parsons Dance

12-17

Les Misérables

20-21

Reduced Shakespeare Company: The Complete Works of Shakespeare

24

Academy of St Martin in the Fields, Joshua Bell, director and violin

26-29

My Fair Lady

NOVEMBER 2019

2

APRIL 2020

Wicked

25

Act One: Miss Nelson Has a Field Day

26

Act One: Miss Nelson Has a Field Day: SF*

M AY 2 0 2 0

DECEMBER 2019

4-15

4-19

13

Disney’s Aladdin

*SF = Sensory-Friendly Performance.

Sensory-Friendly Performances are generously sponsored by Delta Dental of Michigan with additional support from AF Group.

I N C A S E O F E M E RG E N C Y DURING PERFORMANCES

Davina & The Vagabonds and Hot Club of Cowtown

JUNE 2020

16-21

Dear Evan Hansen

A C C E S S I B I L I T Y S E RV I C E S Please alert the Ticket Office when requesting any of the following services with your ticket order.

Our staff is trained to assist patrons through multiple emergency situations.

Please note, concealed weapons and firearms are prohibited within the facility by Michigan Compiled Laws, Section 28.425o (1)(f).

Services for patrons and visitors with mobility disabilities:

P E R S O N A L R E S P O N S I B I L I T Y S TAT E M E N T :

Barrier–Free Parking Drop-off Curb to Seat Service Accessible seating Accessible restrooms

Wharton Center offers a diverse selection of arts entertainment. Not all productions may appeal to or be appropriate for every person or for all ages.

Therefore, patrons are responsible for making informed decisions regarding their ticket purchases.

Services for patrons and visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing:

C H I L D R E N A N D FA M I L I E S : Many Wharton Center programs are offered for youth and families. Ticket policies may vary based on programming; in general, a ticket is required regardless of age. Please review this brochure for age recommendations or contact the Wharton Center Ticket Office for more information regarding age appropriateness and/or ticket policies for each of our programs.

Assistive Listening Devices Open Captioning Sign Language Interpretation

S TA RT T I M E A N D L AT E C O M E R S : Wharton Center and guest artists work together to minimize distractions once a program begins.

Late-arriving patrons may be seated at the rear of the theatre OR not at all once the performance begins. Please refer to our “Tips” email for relevant information sent prior to each performance.

Services for patrons and visitors who are blind or have low vision: Audio Description

PA R K I N G : Detailed directions and parking information will be mailed with your tickets.

SF

Additional information regarding Wharton Center Policies is available on Wharton Center’s website: whartoncenter.com/plan-your-visit

Sensory-Friendly Performances

These live performances in a supportive and welcoming environment make theatre accessible to those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other sensory sensitivities.

Call (517) 884-3119 for more information on the above services or to inquire

Performances supported by Delta Dental of Michigan.

about additional patron services at Wharton Center.

whar toncenter.com W H A R T O N

C E N T E R

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2 0 1 9 – 2 0 2 0

S E A S O N

For more information, log on to WHARTONCENTER.COM or call 1.800.WHARTON Subscribe today and save!

ALADDIN NORTH AMERICAN TOUR. PHOTO BY DEEN VAN MEER. © DISNEY.

WHARTON CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS

750 East Show Lane East Lansing, MI 48824-1318