A NEW BEGINNING
It has been a privilege to steward the hundred-year-old city treasure that is the Zeiterion through a transformational restoration and renovation. Though it was difficult to go dark, it gave us a much-needed opportunity for deep reflection, which set us on a journey to transform the way we work.
For the Zeiterion to serve New Bedford for the next 100 years, we need to build with the community, not just for the community. This sentiment is at the heart of our new strategic plan – five ambitious goals that are our pathway to The Z’s next act. Though plenty of work is ahead of us, when we reopen in January 2026, we will introduce a new building, new programs, and a new Zeiterion.
What you find in the following pages is just the beginning. We will add more performances and events in the coming months. And the grand reopening of the new Zeiterion will be celebrated all year long. We invite you to come explore it all.
Check out the full plan for The Z’s future by scanning this QR code or clicking here .
MEMBERSHIP IS BACK!
We are thrilled to launch a brand-new membership program in preparation for when the restored and renovated Zeiterion reopens in 2026.
Z Members will:
Find out first who’s coming to The Z Be among the first to purchase tickets when they go on sale
Enjoy the brand-new Bristol County Savings Bank Lounge on Zeiterion show nights
Receive invitations to Member Nights
Most importantly, your membership sustains arts and culture in our community.
Become a Zeiterion Member today! You’ll find our new membership levels and the benefits you can receive, whether you make a onetime membership gift or become a sustaining member with a monthly contribution.
Scan QR code or click here to become an Annual or Monthly Zeiterion Member today!
20% off at all Servedwell restaurants when you bring your Z tickets!
2026 SEASON AT A GLANCE
MAINSTAGE
Oct 19 NBSO - Music of Renewal
Dec 14 NBSO - Holiday Pops
Jan 17 Big Night, Bright Lights: The Z's Grand Reopening ft. Dulcé Sloan
Jan 24 Get The Led Out
Feb 01 123 Andrés
Feb 05 MOMIX: Alice
Feb 07 The Commodores
Feb 14 NBSO - Romantic Revelations
Feb 19 STOMP
Feb 22 Cirque Kalabanté: Afrique En Cirque
Feb 26 Direct From Sweden: The Music of ABBA
Feb 28 DakhaBrakha
Mar 8 In The Whale film + Talk Back w/David Abel
Mar 14 NBSO - Boldness Unbound
Mar 19 The Moth
Mar 20 Marlon Wayans
Mar 21 Live from Laurel Canyon
Mar 29 The Lodger
Apr 10 Step Afrika!
Apr 11 Julia Keefe Indigenous Big Band
Apr 18 NBSO - The Human Element
Apr 21 The Pout-Pout Fish
Apr 25 Classic Albums Live: Fleetwood Mac Rumours
May 8 #SistersInLaw
May 16 NBSO - A Joyous Sound
May 23 NB At The Z featuring NB Hip-Hop Greats
May 31 The Remember Balloons
Jun 14 US Coast Guard Band
Jul 2 Elida Almeida
July 17-26 NBFT - Jimmy Buffet's Escape to Margaritaville
Sep 18 Choir! Choir! Choir!
Oct 23 Mariza
Oct 30 Rocky Horror Picture Show w/ Barry Bostwick
COMMUNITY
Feb 12 AHA! Tour
Apr 04 Lift Us Up
Apr 11 HBCU College Fair
MOVIE MONDAYS
Feb 2 Groundhog Day (1993)
Feb 16 The Lion King (1994)
Feb 23 The Sound of Music (1965)
Mar 9 The Shining (1980)
Mar 16 Purple Rain (1984)
Mar 23 Jennifer's Body (2009)
Mar 30 All About Eve (1950)
Mar 30 Shaft (1971)
Apr 6 Pulp Fiction (1994)
Apr 20 8 Mile (2002)
Apr 27 The Seven Year Itch (1955)
Apr 27 King Kong vs. Godzilla (1962)
May 4 The Original Star Wars Trilogy
May 25 The Longest Day (1962)
Jun 1 Notorious (2009)
Jun 8 The Birdcage (1996)
Jun 15 Walk The Line (2005)
Jun 21 E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
Jun 22 The Muppet Movie (1979)
Jun 29 Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)
Jun 29 Enter The Dragon (1973)
Jul 5 Jaws (1975)
Aug 3 What About Bob? (1991)
Aug 10 Caddyshack (1980)
Aug 17 Ghostbusters (1984)
Aug 24 Stripes (1981)
Aug 31 Lost in Translation (2003)
SPEAKEASY
Jan 22 Roaring ‘20s Night
Jan 28 Dance Barre: Momix
Feb 12 Jazz Jam
Mar 12 Jazz Jam
Mar 18 Dance Barre: Step Afrika!
Apr 09 Jazz Jam
May 14 Jazz Jam
Jun 06 Drag Queen Lip Sync Battle
STAGEDOOR LIVE
Mar 5 Isaac Mizrahi
Mar 26 Meow Meow
Apr 1 Reckless Son
Apr 23 Hot Club Cheese Roll
Apr 30 I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter
May 21 Sonia Bettencourt
May 28 Timmy Brown Band
Jun 11 Fabiola Méndez
We’re about to cut the ribbon, but it’s not a wrap. We still need your help!
A gift to Beyond100 will not only help us reach our target of $37M but also create a lasting impact on the next century of performing arts on the Southcoast. Help keep our momentum going on the renovation with a donation today!
We've been busy since we Scan QR code or click here for more information.
YOUR FIRST VISIT
Thanks to a great deal of restoration, The Z has kept its same historic charm. It’s also teeming with improvements: space has been maximized, facilities modernized, comfort increased, and accessibility addressed.
Restored, renovated, and ready to welcome you back in January. Here’s a slice of what’s to come…
UPON YOUR ARRIVAL
The first thing you’ll notice is the building’s curb appeal. A marquee returns to the building, illuminating Purchase Street, with a with a scaled down marquee above the box office, now located on street level. That’s right – you no longer need to enter the lobby to buy a ticket. The bustling lobby is now visible from the street as well, from large storefront windows (formerly the Member Lounge).
ENTERING THE BAKER LOBBY
Once inside, The Baker Lobby gives you ample room to grab a drink at the beautiful bar or meet with friends before the show. Adjacent are the restrooms (no longer inside the auditorium), dramatically improving convenience. Here you'll find a grand staircase that leads you to the second floor.
THE BAKER LOBBY
HISTORIC LOBBY
TAKE THE GRAND STAIRCASE OR CENTRAL ELEVATOR TO...
Whether you take the stairs, or the new central elevator, the second floor features the Bristol County Savings Bank Lounge for Z Members in addition to Zeiterion offices.
...THE SECOND FLOOR BRISTOL COUNTY SAVINGS BANK LOUNGE
BRISTOL COUNTY
The third floor features the education suite that includes a movement studio and a classroom – finally dedicated space for learning through the arts!
...THE THIRD FLOOR CLASSROOM & MOVEMENT STUDIO
MOVEMENT STUDIO
VOLUNTEER ROOM
THE SPEAKEASY
Previously underused, the basement of the Zeiterion now has a swank Speakeasy, a nod to the 1920s when the Zeiterion was built. The flexible space offers an intimate setting for smaller performances and events, expanding the types of experiences you’ll find at The Z.
THE CROWN JEWEL — THE THEATER
The gem of the whole building, of course, is the theater itself. Everything in the theater has been lovingly and painstakingly restored, from the refreshed ceiling mural to the safer slope of the floor. New, uniform seats. Improved lighting and sound. Chandelier cleaned and rewired. Ramp for accessibility added. Aisle lighting installed. Original color scheme revived. Wall tapestries repaired. Plaster muses patched up and repainted.
MARQUEE
We are excited to illuminate the Zeiterion in downtown New Bedford once again!
We are thrilled to bring back a marquee as part of this capital project. When we reopen, a new marquee honoring the original 1923 design will be returned to the façade for the first time since the mid-century.
TICKETS & BOX OFFICE
Proud to be an independent theater and box office in historic downtown New Bedford!
Wednesdays - Fridays: 9AM-3PM
Saturdays: 9AM-1PM 508-994-2900
Visit us at our temporary box office in the DeMello Center lower lobby until the Zeiterion reopens in January.
When we reopen, you’ll find our fully accessible box office on Purchase Street, just to the right of the main entrance, ready to welcome you in.
Keeping quality of customer care high with live phone and in-person service!
Ways to save BUNDLE
Purchase tickets to 3 or more shows at a time.
CARD TO CULTURE
For EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare card holders, directly through the box office.
GROUPS
Bring a group of 10 or more.
BIG NIGHT BRIGHT LIGHTS
THE GRAND REOPENING OF THE Z
New Bedford Festival Theatre,
New Bedford Symphony Orchestra, and
The Zeiterion Light Up The Stage
Starring Emmy Award-Winning Comedian Dulcé Sloan
Two Shows!
Saturday, January 17 at 2PM and 7PM
Featuring
65-member New Bedford Symphony Orchestra
Spoken Word Artist Hendrick Hernandez-Resto
Nationally-renowned Baritone Philip Lima
Broadway Performers Erin and Matt Ban, Abby Casey and Brooklyn Toli
Gender-expansive Ballroom Dancers
Michael Winward and Holly Stone
New Bedford Festival Theatre, New Bedford Symphony Orchestra, and The Zeiterion Light Up The Stage
Dulcé Sloan
Join us for a night of dazzling celebration as we reopen The Z in style! The full New Bedford Symphony Orchestra will be on stage throughout the evening, setting the backdrop for a captivating program of music, dance, and theater. Emmy Award–winning comedian Dulcé Sloan hosts the celebration, guiding us through an unforgettable night of laughter, joy, and artistry.
A Historic Night for New Bedford and New Century for The Zeiterion
After two years of anticipation, the curtain is rising once again on the newly renovated Zeiterion. For the first time, three of the city’s leading cultural organizations — New Bedford Festival Theatre, New Bedford Symphony Orchestra, and the Zeiterion — will share the stage in a one-night-only concert that honors the heart, soul, and future of the performing arts on the South Coast. This first-time landmark collaboration is more than a performance; it is a joyful homecoming that reaffirms the Zeiterion as a gathering place for creativity, connection, and community.
Phillip Lima Erin and Matt Ban
Sponsored by
COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY
We are excited to evolve into a more community-centered organization by:
Activating the building
We want to be your community living room. We’ve activated previously unused space to increase capacity for gathering and are excited to welcome the community for not only shows, but new experiences.
Including more voices
We are dedicated to presenting an array of voices and lived experiences, particularly from New Bedford, on and off the stage. Do you want your voice to be heard? Please join our board of directors, volunteer usher team, Teen Ambassador program, or advisory boards.
Connecting with Community
The Z’s new Community Time policy gives every employee time to learn about, connect with, and give back to organizations in our community that are led by, or in service of, groups underrepresented at The Z. Let us know how The Z can support your organization!
This is your Zeiterion.
To make it so, we need to hear from you. Please tell us when you have feedback, volunteer opportunities, or ways we can support your work in the community.
Scan this QR code or click here
We're building WITH not FOR our community.
Community Events
Monthly Tours
Schedule available at zeiterion.org
Lift Us Up Saturday, April 4
Historically Black Colleges and Universities College Fair
Saturday, April 11
Lift Us Up at Gallery X, June 2025
Left to right: Sidy Maiga, Candida Rose, Maia Livramento accompanied by NB Symphony Orchestra members
Not pictured: Hendrick Hernandez-Resto, Iva Brito, and Gabriel Johnson
MOVIE MONDAY FILM SERIES
For decades, New Bedford gathered at The State Theatre to experience the magic of the movies, from Saturday matinees to unforgettable evening blockbusters and even world premieres!
The Zeiterion celebrates that legacy by bringing beloved titles back to the big screen for a Movie Monday Series, including State Theater Legacy Films, Music, Popular Hits, and a Bill Murray Movie Marathon. From timeless classics to cult favorites and musical milestones, these films honor the tradition of shared cinematic joy in a grand single-screen setting.
Join us as we rekindle the memories of popcorn, laughter, and the wonder of movie-going in downtown New Bedford.
Sponsored by
Read the full line up on page 5 or visit zeiterion.org/moviemonday
The Speakeasy
The Speakeasy is our new underground gathering place, right beneath the lobby. With its low ceilings and warm, moody glow, it creates the kind of setting where artists and audiences can truly connect. It’s a stage for new ideas, local artists, and fresh voices.
A space designed for our community to create and share, The Speakeasy is available to rent for your own event. Visit page 64 for more information.
Here’s what’s slated so far in The Speakeasy. More events, performances, and gatherings to be added soon!
ROARING '20s NIGHT JAN
22
8:00PM
$15
Take a trip back to the Roaring ‘20s as The Z’s Speakeasy comes alive with the spirit of 1923, the year our theater first opened its doors. Enjoy lively jazz music by Buttonwood Brass Prohibition Band, sip on specialty cocktails, and soak up the glamour of a bygone era. Guests are encouraged to dress in dapper style for a night of jazz-age revelry.
JAM FEB 12 MAR 12 APR 09 MAY 14 THURSDAYS
Calling all musicians and music lovers! Join sax player and music educator Emmanuel “Manny” Escobar for free, fun jam sessions during AHA! Nights. Grab your instruments and play – or just enjoy the live music. Musicians, vocalists, visual artists, and audience members welcome. No prior jam experience or ticket needed.
DANCE BARRE
Like a book club for dance and choreography!
Immerse yourself in the world of movement. You’re invited to gather in our new Speakeasy with friends for an hour-long experience featuring dance experts, video performances, and beverages. Dance Barre inspires dance lovers, dancers, and choreographers, as well as enriches the upcoming mainstage performance. Free!
MOMIX: Dance Barre
WEDNESDAY
JAN 28 7:00PM FREE!
Step Afrika! Dance Barre
WEDNESDAY
MAR 18 7:00PM FREE!
Adrienne Hawkins Dance Barre, Jan. 2020
DRAG QUEEN LIP SYNC BATTLE
Get ready for a dazzling night of entertainment with our Drag Queen Lip Sync Battle, where charisma, costume, and performance take center stage. Cheer with the crowd as they compete to wow the audience in a sparkling showdown of talent and flair!
CALL TO ARTISTS & PRODUCERS
The Speakeasy is more than a room. It is a secret worth sharing. Whether testing a new piece, hosting a reading, leading a workshop, or sharing music, The Speakeasy gives you a platform to create, experiment, and connect with an audience ready to lean in. Day or night, it is alive with possibility, a place where local talent shines, new ideas take flight, and the community comes together to witness something special.
Stage Door Live
Enter through the Red Stage Door and into a world where the Zeiterion stage becomes your concert club. For Stage Door Live, you’re not just in the audience—you’re on stage with the artist, feeling every note up close. Take in the theater’s stunning architecture as your backdrop to rising local stars and renown national acts. Premium tables offer reserved seating and the remaining tables invite general admission guests to join the magic.
MAR 05 7:00PM
9:00PM TWO SHOWS
$55 - $65
ISAAC MIZRAHI
Isaac Mizrahi has spent over 35 years at the intersection of entertainment, media, and fashion – and now he celebrates 10 years of performing at NYC’s famed Café Carlyle! With his incredible jazz band, Isaac brings his signature wit and musical flair to The Z’s Stage Door for a one-of-a-kind show that fuses performance art, music and stand-up comedy.
Contains adult content.
MEOW MEOW
International songstress and comedienne extraordinaire Meow Meow brings her unique brand of hilarity and musical mayhem to New Bedford! Hailing from Australia, she has hypnotized, inspired, and terrified audiences globally with unique creations, from New York’s Lincoln Center to the Sydney Opera House. Don’t miss the spectacular crowd-surfing
tragi-comedienne, backed by her band, who The Times (UK) reviewed as “Sensational. 5 Stars.”
Contains adult content.
MAR 26
7:00PM
THURSDAY 9:00PM TWO SHOWS
$55 - $65
"A performer who gleefully tramples barriers of genre" — Renée Fleming
RECKLESS SON
Inspired by performing in jails and prisons across the country, singer-songwriter Matt
Butler brings a powerful combination of spoken word and song. Reckless Son humanizes the experience of the incarcerated by sharing their stories. It’s a show of hope and forgiveness that raises awareness, shifts perspectives, and challenges individuals to create change within their communities. This performance will be accompanied by community programming amplifying the work of local organizations addressing addiction and incarceration.
APR 01 WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
APR 23 7:30PM
$25 - $34
HOT CLUB CHEESE ROLL
Hot Club Cheese Roll serves up a mix of jazz standards and contemporary hits in the style popularized by Django Reinhardt! Trio Jason Smith (guitar/vocals), Mark Russell (violin/vocals), and John Birt (guitar/ vocals) are Southcoast favorites. For their Stage Door Live debut, they will be joined by Tanner McMullen (upright bass), Albert Behar (accordion),and Casey Belisle (drums).
THURSDAY
I AM NOT YOUR PERFECT MEXICAN DAUGHTER APR
30
7:30PM
$29
Literature to Life’s latest adaptation! Erika L. Sánchez’s young adult novel about identity and expectations comes alive on stage. Co-produced with Freedom Reads, the story follows Julia Reyes, a Chicago high school student, as she navigates trials and tribulations of following her dreams of becoming a writer, alongside the death of her sister, Olga – who might not have been quite as perfect as she
Contains mature themes and language.
SONIA BETTENCOURT
The award-winning fadista first began singing with her grandmother and great-grandmother in Lisbon. Now Sonia Bettencourt performs all over the country, sharing her love of traditional Portuguese folk music. Don’t miss this beautiful night of fado!
THURSDAY
THURSDAY
TIMMY BROWN BAND MAY
FABIOLA MÉNDEZ
An intimate evening with acclaimed country artist Timmy Brown, featuring the incredible talents of guitarist John Baptista and bassist Jeff Griffith. With a stripped-down acoustic backdrop, Timmy shares the candid, heartfelt stories that inspired fan favorites. Get ready to laugh, reflect, and fall in love with these songs all over again.
THURSDAY
JUN 11 7:30PM
$35 - $45
Fabiola Méndez is an Emmy-nominated composer known for her unique blend of folk, jazz, and Afro-Caribbean influences. Born in Puerto Rico, her music takes audiences on a journey as she shares and celebrates the cuatro (a traditional Puerto Rican instrument), folk music, and collective storytelling at venues like NPR Tiny Desk, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Celebrity Series of Boston, and more!
EDUCATION
Explore your curiosity!
A rotating line-up of classes led by teaching artists provides a nurturing space for all ages to fulfill an interest or sharpen a skill as you connect with others and yourself.
Empowering teen voices!
Offering the space and guidance for teens to learn through exposure, collaboration, creativity, and engagement in the arts. Participants will experience unique creative opportunities as well as career readiness training for pursuing the arts or an arts-related field. The program is free for students 13-19 years of age.
Learn more about both programs at zeiterion.org/education
Travel outside the classroom into a world of imagination!
The Z’s Schooltime Performance Series features some of the world’s most respected and famed theatrical, dance, and musical companies. These engaging curriculum-based performances are designed for students in grades Pre-K to 12 and incorporate an array of subjects, themes, topics and issues of relevance, reaching nearly 20,000 students and teachers each year!
Tell a teacher or bring your class!
Scan QR code or click here for more information.
DANCE DISCOVERY
Find What Moves You!
World-class dance companies and local talent Performances
MOMIX: Alice
Thur, Feb 5, 7:30pm
Mainstage (page 39 for details)
Step Afrika!
Fri, Apr 10, 8pm
Mainstage (page 49 for details)
STOMP
Thu, Feb 19, 8pm
Mainstage
(page 40 for details)
Tiny Dances
Thur, Sept 10, 5-8pm
Purchase Street
(Rain location: On Stage)
Films
Short films. Inspired choreography.
Lectures
Dance Barre: MOMIX
Wed, Jan 28, 7pm Speakeasy
Dance Barre: Step Afrika! Wed, Mar 18, 7pm Speakeasy
Creative Classroom
Learn Salsa, Swing, Bachata, Cape Verdean dance and more! For the latest line-up, visit zeiterion.org/classes
ScreenDance RoadShow Season 8
Wed, Apr 29, 7pm On Stage
ScreenDance RoadShow: Playing Favorites
Wed, Jun 3, 7pm
GET THE LED OUT JAN
Get the Led Out is back! Dubbed “The American Led Zeppelin,” the band captures the essence of Zeppelin and returns it to stage. The two-hour rock homage features an impressive group of musicians who were fans first, striving to do justice to one of the greatest bands in rock history. They bring just what the audience wants — a Zeppelin concert with an honest, heart-thumping intensity!
24 8:00PM
$39 - $55 SATURDAY
2:00PM SUNDAY
Sponsored by
A family performance! Together Andrés and Christina
Christina English, performance inclusive
THURSDAY
$29 - $59
Seamlessly blending illusion, acrobatics, magic, and whimsy, MOMIX sends audiences flying down the rabbit hole in Moses Pendleton’s newest creation, ALICE, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s classic Alice in Wonderland. Join this dazzling company on a mind-bending adventure, as Alice encounters time-honored characters including the undulating Caterpillar, a Lobster Quadrille, frenzied White Rabbits, a mad Queen of Hearts, and a variety of other surprises.
Matchboxes, brooms, garbage cans, and more!
Don’t miss the inventive and invigorating stage show that’s dance, music, and theatrical performance blended together in one electrifying rhythm.
8:00PM
$69 - $119
* $119 includes a post-performance afterglow event with light bites and a signature drink. FEB 07
With a career spanning more than five decades, The Commodores have secured their place among the greatest Motown and R&B legends of all time. Known for chart-topping hits like Easy, Brick House, and Three Times a Lady, their music continues to have audiences cheering for more. The Grammy-winning group blends smooth soul ballads with irresistible funk grooves, creating a sound that is timeless and unforgettable. Don’t miss this chance to experience The Commodores live in concert, delivering the classics you love with the energy and charisma that made them icons.
THE COMMODORES
FEB 22 4:00PM
$25 - $55 SUNDAY
Discover the beauty and artistry of African culture in this thrilling performance. Beyond its scenery, costumes, and staging, Cirque Kalabanté represents the strength, agility, and life's joys of young Africans. In their Afrique En Cirque, acrobats execute gravity-defying moves and human pyramids, accompanied by the contemporary sounds of live Afro-Jazz, percussion, and kora – making the Zeiterion vibrate with energy!
DIRECT FROM SWEDEN: THE MUSIC OF ABBA FEB
The incomparable sound and look of Sweden’s greatest music export is coming to New Bedford! Get ready for a night of great solos, musical numbers, and a complete live band with back-up singers that ensures
THURSDAY an extra dimension unheard of in similar productions. Sing along and enjoy your favorite hits, like Dancing Queen, Waterloo, Mamma Mia, Take a Chance and more!
26 8:00PM
8:00PM
$32 - $59
DAKHABRAKHA FEB 28
An “ethno-chaos” quartet from Kyiv, Ukraine! DakhaBrakha’s sound spans years of performances prior to Russia’s 2022 invasion, but war is in everything now. They masterfully blend Ukrainian traditional music with influences from around the world, resulting in an unexpected new music.
THE MOTH MAINSTAGE
Who knew five storytellers sharing personal stories from their lives could be so riveting! Joined on stage by a dynamic host and musical act, The Moth Mainstage is an iconic storytelling experience that’s not to be missed.
May contain adult content.
“ Even in this frantic, wired age, we still crave the comfort of a heartfelt narrative
IN THE WHALE: THE GREATEST FISH
STORY EVER TOLD
A special screening of the award-winning documentary!
$15
In the Whale tells the true story of local lobster diver Michael Packard, who, in 2021, was briefly caught in the mouth of a whale off the coast of Provincetown. The documentary takes a closer look at what happened before, during, and after Packard's harrowing experience, making for one whale of a tale.
Post-show Q&A with Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter David Abel, the film's writer, director, and producer.
MARLON WAYANS
Marlon Wayans in New Bedford for one night only! The actorscreenwriter-producer first entered the comedy hall of fame with projects like In Living Color, Scary Movie and White Chicks – just to name a few. As a standup comedian, he blends sharp social commentary with laughout-loud comedy. He shares his unfiltered takes on life, family and relationships - everything you want in a comedy show!
Contains adult content.
$39 - $69 FRIDAY
MAR 20 8:00PM
MAR 21
8:00PM
$25 - $45
LIVE FROM LAUREL CANYON
An evening of live music and the stories that inspired the most influential songwriters of the ‘60s and ‘70s! This journey through American pop music celebrates The Mamas and The Papas, The Byrds, Buffalo Springfield, Doors, Crosby, Stills Nash & Young, James Taylor,
MAR 29
2:00PM
$15 SUNDAY
THE LODGER
SILENT FILM NIGHT WITH MIGHTY WURLITZER ACCOMPANIMENT
After much needed maintenance during the restoration, The Z’s Mighty Wurlitzer Organ is ready for the spotlight once again! The Eastern Massachusetts Chapter of the
American Theatre Organ Society, featuring organist Juan Cardona, Jr., perform the live soundtrack to Alfred Hitchcock’s third film and first thriller, The Lodger.
APR 10
8:00PM
$15 - $49 FRIDAY
AFRIKA!
An electrifying production that fuses groundbreaking step choreography with
SATURDAY
APR 11 8:00PM $29 - $49
THE POUT-POUT FISH
APR 21 10:00AM
TUESDAY 12:30PM TWO SHOWS
$10 - $20
An April vacation family performance! Turn the poutiest of frowns upside down in this colorful adaptation of The New York Times bestseller. The Pout-Pout Fish is a musical co-conceived, directed, and designed by the acclaimed puppeteers of AchesonWalsh Studios, whose work was featured in Broadway's The King And I, On the Town, and Radio City's New York Spectacular. With whimsical puppets and live performers, they bring this sweeping oceanic adventure to life.
JULIA KEEFE INDIGENOUS BIG BAND
Led by celebrated vocalist and luminary Julia Keefe (Nez Perce), the Julia Keefe Indigenous Big Band brings charisma, passion, and purpose to every stage – leaving audiences both inspired and educated. They represent a long-silenced, long-forgotten chapter of jazz history: the contribution and legacy of Indigenous jazz musicians. In this performance, the band carries forward original works inspired by songs and rhythms of their Native heritage reimagined through the language and stylings of jazz.
CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE: FLEETWOOD MAC RUMOURS
Do you remember listening to an entire album? The thrill of dropping the needle on the greatest music ever recorded? Classic Albums Live does. They take the greatest classic rock albums and recreate them live on stage – note for note, cut for cut. Don’t miss the chance to relive the magic of Rumours, performed live!
FRIDAY
MAY
APR 25 8:00PM
$39 - $59
Sponsored by
#SISTERSINLAW
The popular podcast takes The Z stage! #SistersinLaw brings together compelling conversations with some of today’s most fascinating women in law, justice, and social change. Through insight, humor, and personal stories, the hosts explore the challenges and triumphs of navigating the legal world. Whether you’re a law enthusiast or just love a great conversation, this podcast offers an engaging look at the women shaping the law—and society—today.
MAY 23
8:00PM
$29 - $49
NEW B AT THE Z
“Being amongst the first hip-hop artists in the city to grace [the Zeiterion] stage as a coheadliner, it’s a full circle moment and a dream come true.”
- Hendrick Hernandez- Resto
Siahlaw Caliph
Hip-hop has been around for more than 50 years, and it’s finally getting its due at The Z! Local greats Caliph, Hendrick Hernandez-Resto, and Siahlaw perform for the first time on the stage that has loomed large for them growing up in New Bedford.
The seasoned artists of the game unite to demonstrate that working together can truly amplify the genre. Backed by DJ Fresco and The Seshn Band, the trio offer an epic performance that’s not to be missed by fans of hip-hop or supporters of the community.
Hendrick Hernandez-Resto
DJ Fresco
THE REMEMBER BALLOONS
A family performance! A heartwarming and visually stunning performance that brings together music, dance, and projection to tell a story of a young boy, his grandfather, and their shared memories. Through a blend of contemporary and tap dance, multimedia elements, and a jazz score, we explore the significance of memories in shaping our identities and the bittersweet experience of letting go.
Contains sensitive themes, including Alzheimer's disease and memory loss.
SUNDAY
MAY 31 4:00PM
$15 - $45
US COAST GUARD BAND JUN 14
The premier band representing the U.S. Coast Guard and the Department of Homeland Security! The 55-member ensemble has performed concert tours around the globe to promote goodwill while showcasing pride, patriotism and musicianship. Their spectrum of music ranges from wind ensemble classics to swinging jazz charts, offering something for everyone.
$29 - $49 THURSDAY
JUL 02 8:00PM
ELIDA ALMEIDA
Elida Almeida first burst onto the scene in 2014 with over 2.7 million views on YouTube, seducing fans with her suave and powerful voice. Since then, she has carried the musical heart of Cape
CHOIR! CHOIR! CHOIR!
FRIDAY
It’s your turn to sing! Choir! Choir! Choir! is the fully interactive, participatory show that turns the audience into performers. Get ready to laugh, dance, and sing your heart out with hundreds of other musicSEP 18 8:00PM
$19 - $45
lovers just like you. It’s like a big birthday party for the greatest songs of all time –and you’re invited. All voices welcome, no experience necessary. They teach, you sing. Everyone wins!
MARIZA
Sponsored by
OCT FRIDAY
International fado sensation
Mariza returns to The Z, where she has captivated sold-out audiences time and again. Her powerful voice and commanding stage presence breathe new life into Portugal’s most treasured musical tradition. A true New Bedford favorite, Mariza promises an evening of passion, beauty, and unforgettable song.
Sponsored by
* $99 includes a meet and greet with Mariza
ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW
FEATURING BARRY BOSTWICK
OCT 30
FRIDAY 2026
7:00PM
$45 - $165*
The cult classic featuring Brad Majors himself, Barry Bostwick! Join Bostwick for a screening of the original unedited movie with a live shadow cast and audience participation. Featuring memorabilia from the movie, a costume contest, prop bags for the whole audience, and pre-show meet and greet with Bostwick in the VIP package. All in celebration of The Rocky Horror Picture Show’s 50th anniversary! Contains adult content.
* $165 includes a meet and greet with Barry Bostwick 59
NEW BEDFORD
Summer musical at The Z returns when New Bedford Festival Theatre presents the Broadway musical Jimmy Buffett's Escape to Margaritaville!
This musical comedy tells the story of Tully, a charming bartender and singer on a tropical island, who falls for Rachel, a career-driven tourist, making him question his carefree lifestyle.
A celebration of love, laughter, and living in the moment, this summer smash features Buffett's greatest hits, like “Margaritaville” and “Cheeseburger in Paradise.” JUL 17 $45 - $70 FROM TO 26
Eight Performances
July 17-26
NEW BEDFORD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
YOUR RESET STARTS HERE.
In a world that rarely slows down, the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra invites you to rediscover connection, beauty, and joy. Our 2025–2026 season is more than performances—it’s a journey of renewal and celebration, marking our long-awaited return to the Zeiterion.
Under the direction of Yaniv Dinur, each concert offers a chance to step away from daily demands and immerse yourself in music that restores the spirit. From the calming sounds of the Venezuelan plains to the shimmer of Portuguese guitar and the soaring triumph of Beethoven’s Ode to Joy, this season promises to leave you grounded, uplifted, and alive.
Music of Renewal
Sunday, October 19
3:00 PM
Kilburn Event Center,
General Admission
$55
An afternoon of soaring winds, Latin rhythms, and the restorative beauty of Mozart’s Sinfonia Concertante for Winds. The bay glimmers outside; inside, the music breathes life back into you.
Holiday Pops
Sunday, December 14
3:30 and 7:00 PM
Bronspiegel Auditorium
$30, $40, $50, $60
Joy in its purest form. A hall decked in holiday cheer, music that makes your heart swell, and moments to share with the people who matter most.
Boldness Unbound
Saturday, March 14
7:30 PM
The Zeiterion
$30, $55, $70, $80
A fresh heartbeat.
Percussionist Cynthia Yeh ignites the stage with Avner Dorman’s high-energy concerto, followed by Charles Ives’ reimagining of the American spirit.
The Human Element
Saturday, April 18
7:30 PM
The Zeiterion
$30, $55, $70, $80
Transformation in sound. From Missy Mazzoli’s industrial-to-light journey to Michel Camilo’s electrifying piano concerto, this is music that stirs the soul.
Romantic Revelations
Saturday, February 14
7:30 PM
The Zeiterion
$30, $55, $70, $80
We welcome you back to “The New Z” for a Valentine’s Day concert that stirs the heart and lifts the spirit. From playful wit to sweeping passion, it’s an evening to feel deeply and celebrate the joy of connection.
A Joyous Sound
Saturday, May 16
7:30 PM
The Zeiterion
$30, $55, $70, $80
Portuguese guitar virtuoso
Pedro da Silva meets Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony in an unforgettable finale that unites cultures, hearts, and voices in a triumphant “Ode to Joy.”
HOST YOUR EVENT OR PERFORMANCE AT THE Z
Affordable Spaces for Creatives and Professionals
When the Zeiterion reopens, the venue will be available to rent, offering a welcoming space for your events. With state-of-the-art technical infrastructure and convenient elevator access, every guest can enjoy a seamless and comfortable experience. Email rentals@zeiterion.org or visit Zeiterion.org/rentals after November 1 for prices and information.
YOU CAN RENT…
The Speakeasy
Historic Theater
Stage within the Theater
Classrooms
Movement Studio
Bristol County Savings Bank Lounge
Main Lobby
NAME A SEAT
New, comfortable, beautiful theater seats are coming to The Z as part of our historic restoration and renovation. For $1,000, you can have a name, quote, or inspiring message engraved onto a plaque and placed on the back of a seat. Your message will be permanently affixed for the lifetime of the chair.
This is a wonderful way to support The Z and make a long-lasting impact!
Here are just a few reasons to name a seat:
• You love The Z, New Bedford Symphony Orchestra, New Bedford Festival Theatre
• You need a special gift for the person who has everything.
• You want to honor your loved one’s life and legacy.
• You could use a tax deduction.
• You want to have a lasting impact on your community.
Scan QR code or click here for more information on how you can Name A Seat!
FOUNDATION & PUBLIC SUPPORT
City NewofBedford
Acushnet Cultural Council
Acushnet Foundation Fund
Association for the Relief of Aged Women
The Barr Foundation
Bristol County Savings Bank Charitable Foundation
The Carney Family Charitable Foundation
Dartmouth Cultural Council
Fidelity Foundation
Greater New Bedford Youth Alliance
Grimshaw-Gudewicz Charitable Foundation
Special thanks to
Helen E. Ellis Charitable Trust
Key Program, Inc.
New Bedford Creative –Art is Everywhere!
New Bedford Cultural Council
The National Endowment for the Arts
Massachusetts Cultural Council
Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism
The Manton Foundation
SouthCoast Community Foundation
Technical Development Corporation (TDC)
Mayor Jon Mitchell, Senator Mark Montigny, Senator Michael Rodrigues, Chairman Antonio Cabral, Representative Chris Hendricks, New Bedford City Council, New Bedford Office of Tourism, Greater New Bedford Chamber of Commerce, New Bedford Economic Development Council, National Independent Venue Association, our board of directors, our Volunteer Usher Corps, and all our wonderful donors, supporters, and sponsors.
SEASON SPONSOR
OFFICIAL HOTEL
OFFICIAL BEVERAGE
OFFICIAL I.T.
