When this Grammy-winning choir hits the stage, they will raise the rafters with a soul-stirring concert of South African freedom songs, spirituals, and classics by Aretha Franklin, Peter Gabriel, and Leonard Cohen. Their rich harmonies, brilliant costumes, and infectious spirit will create an unforgettable experience!
“a cornucopia of remarkable voices … the choir was constantly in motion and rich in harmony”
—The New York Times
Photo by Gas Photographic
PILOBOLUS OTHER WORLDS COLLECTION
Fri & Sat, Oct 10 & 11 • 8 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
Journey into an astonishing universe where Pilobolus transverses the landscape of the human experience with heart-stopping grace, acrobatic power, and breathtaking artistry. Explore the human condition as they fuse sensuality, humor, and physical prowess in a spellbinding performance.
CONNECT with the artists in a dance masterclass and preshow discussions.
by Jason
Photo
Hudson
JOSH BLUE BERSERKER TOUR
Thur, Oct 23 • 7 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
After winning Last Comic Standing, Josh Blue skyrocketed to fame, delivering knockout sets on The Tonight Show and earning 3rd place on America’s Got Talent. Headlining 200+ shows annually, he shatters stereotypes about disabilities through his hilarious, unforgettable performances worldwide.
Photo by Paul Miller Photography
Fri & Sat • 8 pm
Oct 24 & 25
Dec 5 & 6
Jan 16 & 17
Feb 27 & 28
Apr 3 & 4
Back with a fresh lineup of powerhouse talent, this hit comedy series features comics seen on Netflix , Comedy Central, The Tonight Show, and more. Smart, fast, and fiercely funny— get ready to laugh out loud and leave smiling.
VIP tables available.
OrlandoLeyba HelenHong
TINA M c GUIRE THEATRE
SidDavis
MichaelPalascak
Kevin Bozeman
DONNA WASHINGTON OF BLOOD AND BONE
Tue, Oct 28 • 7 pm DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
Master storyteller Donna Washington delivers delightfully disquieting tales of skin-spinners, sweet-toothed child-eaters, undead lovers, and blood-hungry captains. Perfectly timed for the Halloween season, these stories will get under your skin and revisit you deep in the night.
Recommended for ages 18+
Photo by Jonathan VanArk
KARLA BONOFF
Sat, Nov 1 • 8 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
One of the finest singersongwriters of her generation, Bonoff’s ballads became hits for legends like Linda Ronstadt and Bonnie Raitt. Her live shows—spare, moving, and transformative—showcase a voice that works timeless magic and continues to captivate audiences around the world.
by Christina
Photo
Burns
CIRQUE KALABANTÉ AFRIQUE EN CIRQUE
Fri, Nov 14•7 pm
In bursts of vivid color, acrobats expertly execute gravity-defying moves to the exhilarating beat of live music—somersaulting in sync with the percussive rhythms of Afro-Jazz. Truly a circus experience like no other, this production vibrates with energy—showcasing the strength, agility, youth and artistry of African culture.
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
Photo by Jordan Curet
A SWANNANOA SOLSTICE
Sun, Dec 21 • 2 pm & 7 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
Celebrate the season at the beloved local tradition that has captivated audiences for over 20 years! Experience a dynamic mix of new and returning artists, bringing you a festive variety of Celtic, American roots, and world-influenced music. This winter, join a heartwarming tribute to Appalachian heritage, filled with holiday cheer.
Becky Stone
EJ Jones & The Piper Jones Band
John Doyle & Mick McAuley
Zoe & Cloyd
Elizabeth McCorvey
Josh Goforth
A.C. Reynolds Chorale
Photos by Amelia Caristo, Anna Caterina, Valerie Eidson, Dave Fimbres, Casey Robinson
THE SLOCAN RAMBLERS
Fri, Jan 16 • 8 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
With raw emotion, tight harmonies, and impeccable musicianship, The Slocan Ramblers will light up the stage and lift your spirits. Their latest album Up the Hill and Through the Fog transforms hardship into hope with a powerful, joyful soundtrack. Say hello to your new favorite band.
THE ACTING COMPANY presents
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
by WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE
Fri, Jan 23•8 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
In this rapturous, fresh take on one of Shakespeare’s most popular plays, a mischievous fairy creates chaos for four young lovers and a troupe of amateur actors in an enchanted forest. Bursting with mirth, music, magic, and mayhem, this transformation comes to life with an electric cast of New York-based artists.
CONNECT with the artists in a preshow discussion.
THE ACTING COMPANY presents GREAT EXPECTATIONS
by CHARLES DICKENS
Sat, Jan 24•8 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
Akin to a bingeable dramedy carved with the beautiful prose that made Dickens popular, this fast-paced adaptation is filled with unexpected hilarity, escaped prisoners, decaying mansions, and a stunning young heiress of ruthless intelligence. This gripping rise from hardship to high society will enthrall audiences of all ages.
CONNECT with the artists in a preshow discussion.
LP & THE VINYL
A Benefit for Arts for All Kids
Fri, Feb 6 • 7 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
SIT CENTER STAGE
Step into the spotlight. Join us on the Diana Wortham Theatre stage for an unforgettable evening where every note played helps open doors to the arts for WNC students.
Arts for All Kids opens doors to the performing arts for students across Western North Carolina through scholarships and creative opportunities— empowering students to explore, imagine, and connect both on stage and beyond.
by
Enjoy intimate on-stage seating, light bites and drinks, a silent auction, and a soul-stirring performance by LP & the Vinyl. Order tickets today—seating is limited.
Photo
Neil Schwartz Photography
Hailed by The Boston Globe as “the finest Celtic ensemble this country has ever produced,” Solas celebrates 30 years of boundary-pushing Irish music. With fiery instrumentals, rich vocals, and adventurous musicality, their highenergy performance promises a powerful celebration of Irish music— past, present, and future.
“An Irish traditional band bearing all the marks of greatness”
—The Wall Street Journal
by
Photo
Anna Colliton
AILEY II
THE NEXT GENERATION OF DANCE
Tue & Wed, Feb 17 & 18•8 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
For over 50 years, Ailey II has merged the spirit and energy of the country’s finest early-career dance talent with the creative vision of today’s outstanding and emerging choreographers. One of America’s most popular dance companies, Ailey II brings fresh perspectives to Alvin Ailey’s legacy— propelling the next generation forward.
“Clearly, the future is theirs.” —The New York Times
CONNECT with the artists in a dance masterclass and preshow discussions.
by
Photo
Nir Arieli
FAMILY SHOWS
JOSHUA LOZOFF
LIFE IS MAGIC
Fri, Feb 20•7 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
Prepare to be astonished during this mind-blowing, laugh-filled evening of magic, mentalism, and human connection. Lozoff’s warm style and quick wit makes audience members of all ages feel included in this highly interactive show.
Photo by Tya Bailiwick
Photo by Christopher McIntosh
SHOWS FOR ALL AGES
LIGHTWIRE THEATER
DINO-LIGHT
Fri, Oct 17•7 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
Using a cutting-edge blend of puppetry, technology, and dance, this visually stunning adventure follows a friendly dinosaur as he discovers a wonderful world full of glowing creatures that help him find the true meaning of love.
YELLOW BIRD CHASE
Wed, Apr 22•6 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
A bumbling crew, a mysterious yellow bird, and a chase that defies reality—Yellow Bird Chase launches you into a wild world with no words—just laughter, wonder, and theatrical magic for all ages and backgrounds.
Photo by Chris Charles
JANE LYNCH & KATE FLANNERY
THE TROUBLE WITH ANGELS
Tue, Mar 3 • 7 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
Join Emmy Award-winner Jane Lynch (Glee, Only Murders in the Building) and the hilariously charming Kate Flannery (The Office) for a raucous night of classic tunes, live comedy, and devilish charm. It’s part cabaret, part stand-up, and all sass—because when these angels get together, heaven can wait.
by Kim Sanchez
Photo
NICOLE ZURAITIS
Wed, Mar 4 • 7 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
A 2X Grammy-winning jazz singer-songwriter, pianist, arranger, and New York-based bandleader— Zuraitis is a trailblazing artist with “a heart as big as her remarkable voice” (Jazz Police). Discover how this dynamic performer and “prolific songwriter” (Broadway World) is redefining vocal jazz.
Bursting with cutting-edge “vivid theatricality,” BODYTRAFFIC conquered the contemporary dance world with stunning performers, technical excellence, and a repertoire spanning ballet, modern, Afro-Cuban, and hip-hop. Championing acclaimed choreographers, this company ignites stories with explosive energy and sheer joy.
CONNECT with the artists in a dance masterclass and preshow discussions.
Photo by Guzman Rosado
JOHN McCUTCHEON
Sat, Mar 21 • 8 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
Grammy-nominated master instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, storyteller, activist, and author— McCutcheon is folk music’s true Renaissance man. Wherever he performs, his legendary charm resonates with audiences of every generation.
“The most impressive instrumentalist I’ve ever heard.”
—Johnny Cash
CONNECT with the artist in a community event.
Photo by Irene Young
ALL THINGS EQUAL THE LIFE & TRIALS OF RUTH BADER GINSBURG
Presented by Thur & Fri, Mar 26 & 27 • 8 pm DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
The “Notorious RBG” comes to life in this witty, moving portrait of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. From breaking barriers and fighting for women’s rights to standing strong on a divided Supreme Court, RBG’s story is one of fierce resilience, sharp humor, and lasting impact.
Photo by Steven Le/Thee
Photo Ninja
BREABACH
Sat, Apr 11 • 7 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
One of Scotland’s most innovative musical exports, this skilled contemporary folk act fuses Highland and Island traditions into a fresh, distinctive sound rooted in heritage. Their multi-awardwinning performances match “fiery intensity with exquisite finesse” and are “as polished as [they are] passionate” (The Scotsman).
by
Photo
Somhairle MacDonald
Photo by Studio Misha
REGINALD GOLDEN SINGERS STONY
THE ROAD
Fri, Apr 17 • 7 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
Inspired by James Weldon Johnson’s Lift Every Voice and Sing, this powerful musical suite by composer Reginald Golden blends jazz, blues, gospel, folk, and spirituals. Each movement honors both the struggle and resilience of the Black experience, while celebrating the beauty and richness of its cultural legacy.
by Kevin Thompson
Photo
Robert Dubac’s THE MALE INTELLECT
AN OXYMORON?
Thur–Sat, Apr 23–25 • 8 pm
TINA M c GUIRE THEATRE
On a quest to answer the age-old question, “What do women want?” Robert Dubac morphs into five hysterical boneheads, each offering side-splitting advice on bridging the gender gap—all while drinking a beer. The New York Times calls it “Hilarious … a one man tour de force!” It’s the funniest hour you’ll spend with one man.
STEWART/OWEN DANCE + GUESTS
Fri & Sat, May 1 & 2 • 7 pm
DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE
After a sold-out run in 2024, this curated evening showcases the ensemble alongside guest choreographers, each bringing a distinct voice. Spanning from elegant to electric, the program includes Stewart/ Owen’s Asheville premiere of The Front—a sharply charged satire commissioned by the American Dance Festival.
The Front was commissioned by American Dance Festival with support from The Mary Duke Biddle Foundation.
Photo by Ben McKeown
worthamarts.org/education
Ongoing Classes
Prioritize your health and wellness with a revolving series of ongoing classes for lifelong learners
Masterclasses
Learn from nationally touring artists in masterclasses throughout the season
Summer Camps
Play, explore, and connect through the arts in week-long summer camps for kids
KIRK & LUCY BORLAND
STUDENT SERIES
in memory of son Patrick Beighley
2025/26 PERFORMANCES
Pilobolus Fri, Oct 10 • 10 am
Lightwire Theater DINO-LIGHT
Fri, Oct 17 • 10 am & 12 pm
Donna Washington A LITTLE SHIVER Tue, Oct 28 • 10 am
Cirque Kalabanté
AFRIQUE EN CIRQUE Fri, Nov 14 • 10 am
The Acting Company presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream Fri, Jan 23 • 10 am
Ailey II
THE NEXT GENERATION OF DANCE
Wed, Feb 18 • 10 am
Joshua Lozoff LIFE IS MAGIC Fri, Feb 20 • 10 am
BODYTRAFFIC Fri, Mar 13 • 10 am
TheaterWorksUSA presents Stuntboy, In the Meantime Tue, Mar 17 • 10 am & 12 pm
TheaterWorksUSA presents Pete the Cat Mon, Mar 23 • 10 am & 12 pm
Yellow Bird Chase Wed, Apr 22 • 10 am
TheaterWorksUSA presents Cat Kid Comic Club Thur, Apr 23 • 10 am & 12 pm
Stewart/Owen Dance Fri, May 1 • 10 am
Sponsored by Kirk & Lucy Borland
Huisking Foundation
Robert & Mercedes Eichholz Foundation
Photo by Jeremy Daniel
THE WORTHAM CENTER GREATLY APPRECIATES THE SUPPORT PROVIDED BY THESE CORPORATE, BUSINESS, MEDIA AND INDIVIDUAL SPONSORS.
SEASON SPONSORS
INDIVIDUAL SEASON SPONSORS
Craig Allen & Julie Cowden
Kirk & Lucy Borland
John & Marsha Ellis
Hedy Fischer & Randy Shull
Richard & Francee Healy
Nancy Houha
Henry LaBrun
Amy Loether
Jerry McAninch
Tina McGuire
Juliet Rains
Shelia Rains & Marjorie Sullivan
Carol & Michael Rosenblum
The Stewart/Meredith Trust
Dianne & David Worley
Diana Wortham
LEAD SPONSORS $5,000+
SUPPORTING SPONSORS $3,000+
Kirk & Lucy Borland
PERFORMANCE SPONSORS $1,500
ARTS FOR ALL KIDS SPONSORS
Robert & Mercedes Eichholz Foundation
Huisking Foundation
LEGACY SOCIETY SPONSORS
Strauss Attorneys, PLLC
MEDIA SPONSORS MAGAZI
Special Thanks to our Preview Party Sponsor
THE WORTHAM CENTER GREATLY APPRECIATES THE SUPPORT PROVIDED BY THESE INDIVIDUAL SERIES & PERFORMANCE SPONSORS.
Jan 1, 2024 through Jun 1, 2025
Joel & Marla Adams
Myles Alexander
Sherman Alfors & Stewart Kennedy
Craig Allen & Julie Cowden
Mary & Jack Anderson
Michael & Catty Andry
Shiner Antiorio & Kathy Robinson
Brad & Diane Arnold
Ann & Iain Baird
Rod & Bess Baird
Ashley Sayre Bell
Steve & Joanne Betso
Diana Bilbrey
Dwight & Norma Bohm
Kirk & Lucy Borland
Buck & Nancy Bragg
Steve & Linda Brown
Joe & Janice Brumit
Clarita Burton
Don & Nancy Ackermann Cole
Patty & Gary Coleman
Alberto Colonia & George Hunker
Marc & Leslie Connolly
Bill Cosgrove & Margaret Davis
Diana Crawford
John & Marsha Ellis
Chris Erwin & Sue Hannum
Dr. Alan & Suzanne Escovitz
Dr. Bolling Farmer
Sue Fernbach & Jim Rishebarger
Hedy Fischer & Randy Shull
Craig & Jacqui Friedrich
Peter & Jasmin Gentling
Bill & Nancy Gettys
Jan & John Getz
Bret Gorman
Sue & Stan Greenberg
Clair Griffith & Geoffrey Mitchell
Maggie Griner
Judith Hamill
Jerry & Melissa Harrelson
Peter Wortham Hawes
Sherry Heacock
Richard & Francee Healy
George Hellyer & George Wagner
Daniel & Linda Hinchliffe, & Abbey
Steve & Rena Hoffman
Hardy Holland & John Moody
Robert & Linda Hollis
Nancy Houha
Bill & Marilyn Hubbard
Stanley Ingber & Laura Robbins
Karl Katterjohn & Kathryn Liss
Ann & Jon Kemske
MaryAnn Kiefer & David Erwin
James King & Jayne Cleveland
Drs. Felipe & Betty Ann Korzenny
Henry LaBrun
Peter Laine & Constance Ensner
David & Tricia Lancor
Jill & Joe Lawrence
Stephen & Barbara Lehrer
Rita Lenderman
Joe & Mary Linville
Amy Loether
Janna & Rick Lutovsky
Andy MacPhillimy & Lois Sutton
Jerry McAninch
Gail & Brian McCarthy
Chris & Mick McClung
Hugh & Carol McCollum
Chris & Sharlene McGraw
Tina McGuire
Anne McKenzie
Artie & Esther Miller
Karen & Robert Milnes
Gary & Joni Mitchell
Maureen O’Hallaron
Katharine O’Neal
Barbara Phelan & Carol Reed
Jessica Pierce
Joseph Piscotty & Carol Maulhardt
Juliet Rains
Shelia Rains & Marjorie Sullivan
Ronna & Rob Resnick
Carol & Michael Rosenblum
Robin Rutledge & Karen Keeler
Rogers
Ken & Betsy Schapira
Joe Scully & Vanessa Salomo
Brad & Margo Searson
Brad Shelton
Dr. Albert & Judith Siemens
The Stewart/Meredith Trust
Hank & Marita Strauss
Kate Thayer
Lou Ella & Bill Tucker
Linda Walker
John & Heather Whitmire
Dianne & David Worley
Diana Wortham
Alan & Kathleen Young
Hank Young
Lach & Jennifer Zemp
Sponsors as of date of publication.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
PURCHASE TICKETS
• In person at the Box Office during regular hours
• By phone: 828-257-4530 x1
• Online: worthamarts.org
• Printable order form: worthamarts.org/order-form
BOX OFFICE
HOURS
Tue–Fri, 10 am–4 pm
Open one hour before performance times
DIRECTIONS AND PARKING
Visit worthamarts.org for parking maps, directions, accessibility info and more.
PERFORMANCE PACKAGES BEST SEATS • BEST PRICES
3+ shows - Save 10%
5+ shows - Save 15%
7+ shows - Save 20%
Full Season - Save 25%
Friendly help from start to finish. Call or visit the Box Office to reserve your package.
TICKET EXCHANGE POLICY
Exchanges and account credits for Wortham Presents events are offered up to 48 hours in advance of the scheduled event. Comprehensive refund protection is available through Booking Protect. Watch video previews at worthamarts.org
Photo: Nicole Zuraitis
2025/26 SEASON AT A GLANCE
SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR
Sat, Sep 27 • 7 pm $70
PILOBOLUS
Fri & Sat, Oct 10 & 11 • 8 pm $75
LIGHTWIRE THEATER: DINO-LIGHT
Fri, Oct 17 • 7 pm $20
JOSH BLUE
Thur, Oct 23 • 7 pm $50
THE COMEDY ZONE –ORLANDO LEYBA
Fri & Sat, Oct 24 & 25 • 8 pm $32+
DONNA WASHINGTON
Tue, Oct 28 • 7 pm $32
KARLA BONOFF
Sat, Nov 1 • 8 pm $58
CIRQUE KALABANTÉ
Fri, Nov 14 • 7 pm $55
THE COMEDY ZONE – HELEN HONG
Fri & Sat, Dec 5 & 6 • 8 pm $32+
A SWANNANOA SOLSTICE
Sun, Dec 21 • 2 pm & 7 pm $75
THE SLOCAN RAMBLERS
Fri, Jan 16 • 8 pm $50
THE COMEDY ZONE – SID DAVIS
Fri & Sat, Jan 16 & 17 • 8 pm $32+
The Acting Company presents A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
Fri, Jan 23 • 8 pm $65
The Acting Company presents GREAT EXPECTATIONS
Sat, Jan 24 • 8 pm $65
LP & THE VINYL/AAK BENEFIT
Fri, Feb 6 • 7 pm $125
SOLAS
Sat, Feb 14 • 8 pm $50
AILEY II
Tue & Wed, Feb 17 & 18 • 8 pm $75
JOSHUA LOZOFF: LIFE IS MAGIC
Fri, Feb 20 • 7 pm $25
THE COMEDY ZONE –MICHAEL PALASCAK
Fri & Sat, Feb 27 & 28 • 8 pm $32+
JANE LYNCH & KATE FLANNERY
Tue, Mar 3 • 7 pm $65-$150
NICOLE ZURAITIS
Wed, Mar 4 • 7 pm $50
BODYTRAFFIC
Fri & Sat, Mar 13 & 14 • 8 pm $75
JOHN M c CUTCHEON
Sat, Mar 21 • 8 pm $50
ALL THINGS EQUAL: THE LIFE & TRIALS OF RBG
Presented by Roberts & Stevens Attorney at Law
Thur & Fri, Mar 26 & 27 • 8 pm $55
THE COMEDY ZONE –KEVIN BOZEMAN
Fri & Sat, Apr 3 & 4 • 8 pm $32+
BREABACH
Sat, Apr 11 • 7 pm $45
REGINALD GOLDEN SINGERS
Fri, Apr 17 • 7 pm $48
YELLOW BIRD CHASE
Wed, Apr 22 • 6 pm $25
ROBERT DUBAC’S THE MALE INTELLECT
Thur–Sat, Apr 23–25 • 8 pm $32
STEWART/OWEN DANCE + GUESTS
Fri & Sat, May 1 & 2 • 7 pm $75
Artists, programs, and dates are subject to change.
