The Lesher Center for the Arts invites you to immerse yourself in a vibrant tapestry of art, music, and theater with a diverse lineup of events that promise to capture the essence of creativity and holiday spirit. From captivating art exhibitions to soulful holiday performances, each event offers a unique glimpse into the richness of culture and the joy of artistic expression. Highlights include 'Drawn to Abstraction,' a powerful exhibition of 60s and 70s prints, and 'Contra Costa Ballet's The Nutcracker,' a cherished holiday tradition. Join us to celebrate the arts in all their forms.

A Celebration of Art and Culture at Lesher Center for the Arts

At the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, CA, creativity flourishes with a captivating lineup of events in 2025. From pathbreaking theater productions like 'Froggy' that blend virtual media with storytelling, to the harmonious symphonies of 'Unfinished Bruckner,' and the enchanting 'DLUX Puppets' Peter Pan,' each event promises to engage and inspire. Whether you're a fan of classical music, contemporary dance, or innovative theatrical performances, the Lesher Center has something for everyone. Let's delve into the artistic experiences awaiting audiences this season.

A Cultural Feast: Exploring Lesher Center's Artful Lineup for 2025

This spring, the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, CA, transforms into a hub of creative expression. From heartfelt theatrical performances to exhilarating musical tributes and thought-provoking lectures, the center is set to offer a diverse array of events that cater to all tastes. Whether you're a fan of theater, music, or cultural discussions, this season’s lineup promises to entertain, inspire, and engage audiences from all walks of life.

A Tapestry of Art and Music: Lesher Center for the Arts Spring Showcase

The Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, CA, is set to host an eclectic array of events this spring and summer, promising a vibrant tapestry of performances and artistic expressions. From Broadway classics to heartwarming musicals, riveting dance performances to insightful talks, the Center invites audiences to dive deep into the world of creativity and culture. Each event shines a light on the unique talents of artists and performers, offering thrilling narratives and compelling artistic expressions that are sure to captivate and inspire.

A Kaleidoscope of Art: Lesher Center's Diverse Spring and Summer Lineup

The Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, CA is a cultural hub that offers a rich tapestry of events blending music, theater, and engaging discussions. This season, they present groundbreaking performances such as 'HAPPY PLEASANT VALLEY: A Senior Sex Scandal Murder Mystery Musical', the musical talents of Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles, and the thrilling improvisation of 'Spontaneous Hitchcock'. Additionally, the Newsmakers series brings insightful talks with luminaries like Frank Abagnale, Lisa Ling, and Laura Linney. Art enthusiasts can also indulge in the 'Cocktails & Conversation' series, diving into the captivating world of abstract art.

Exploring the Diverse Artistic Landscape at Lesher Center for the Arts

Step into the world of vibrant performances and artistic creativity at the Lesher Center for the Arts this July. From youthful endeavors in acting and musical theatre to immersive directing experiences, each event showcases the culmination of hard work and dedication behind the scenes. Whether you're thrilled by Shakespearean comedy or captivated by live music, the variety at this event ensures there’s something to ignite every artistic passion. Join us in celebrating the unique talents of budding artists as they bring diverse narratives and genres to life on stage.

A Theatrical Extravaganza: Exploring the Artistic Showcases at Lesher Center for the Arts

The Lesher Center for the Arts is set to host an eclectic blend of performances that promise to captivate audiences with their diversity and creativity. From a tribute to Taylor Swift's chart-topping hits to an engaging Mariachi Valentine, and a host of other performances in jazz, chamber music, and legendary tales, the center's lineup is a celebration of musical and artistic expression. These events, featuring talented performers and enchanting creative works, are bound to offer something special for everyone, making it a cultural hub in Walnut Creek this season.

An Artistic Journey: Exploring the Eclectic Events at Lesher Center for the Arts

March and April 2026 promise an unparalleled cultural feast at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, CA. From the legendary tale of King Arthur to the soothing strains of jazz, classical music, and orchestral symphonies, the events offer something for everyone. Experience the reviving spirit of spring with Irish melodies, or delve into a world of acclaimed pianists and celebrated ensembles. With performances by Phil Collins and revivals of timeless plays, this season is set to captivate audiences of all ages.

A Cultural Extravaganza at Lesher Center: Music, Magic, and More

Sarah McKenzie is an Australian jazz pianist, composer, vocalist, and bandleader whose breezy technical style, songwriting acumen, and pronounced lyrical sense of swing have drawn comparisons to Blossom Dearie and Diana Krall.

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Sarah McKenzie

Lesher Center for the Arts

Join us on St. Patrick's Day and be enchanted by a vibrant blend of Irish music and melodies celebrating the verdant spirit of spring.

Spring Concert: The Emerald Awakening

Angela Hewitt occupies a unique position among today’s leading pianists. With a wide-ranging repertoire and frequent appearances in recital and with major orchestras throughout Europe, Americas and Asia, she is also an award-winning recording artist whose performances of Bach have established her as one of the composer’s foremost interpreters.

Angela Hewitt

"IN THE AIR TONIGHT" is a concert re-creation of our generation's most prominent artists and band, Grammy award-winning artist Genesis and Phil Collins.

In The Air Tonight - Celebrating the Music of Genesis & Phil Collins

A legendary tale comes to life in The Magic of Merlin's The Sword in the Stone! This exciting adventure tells the story of how young Arthur meets the wise and powerful Merlin, setting him on the path to becoming the legendary King Arthur. Filled with thrilling moments, enchanting music, and plenty of audience interaction, this show is a magical experience for adventurers of ALL ages. Join us for an unforgettable journey where destiny is discovered, and legends are born!

Magic of Merlin's The Sword in the Stone

So sings Madeleine Peyroux on the upbeat title track of her captivating ninth album, Let’s Walk, the acclaimed singer-songwriter’s most assured, courageous work to date. Powered by the distinctive, honeyed croon that delivered her from the Paris streets to concert halls, these ten unabashedly personal songs, all co-written by the versatile Peyroux, deftly interweave jazz, folk, and chamber pop, with themes ranging from the confessional to the political, from whimsy to yearning. In every note, Peyroux digs deep, rendering this exquisite work with the disarming grace and gravitas of an artist in peak form.

Madeleine Peyroux

Expressive, dynamic, spectacular – the Aris Quartet has been at home on international stages for more than a decade. With its unmistakable sound, it has long been known as one of the world’s top-rank chamber music ensembles. The musicians have been honored as ECHO Rising Stars by the European Concert Hall Organisation, were among the BBC’s New Generation Artists, and have won five awards at the ARD International Music Competition in Munich.

Aris Quartet

Love is in the air—from Ginastera’s love story Estancia, which includes the famous “Malambo,” to a thrilling celebration with the renowned UC Davis Mariachi Ensemble. This concert showcasing the rhythms and melodies of Central and South America is not to be missed!

Sounds of the Americas: A Mariachi Valentine

Experience 'Enchanted Dreams: An Unofficial Tribute to the Music of Taylor Swift 'Starring 'Elizabeth as Taylor.' This exciting, high energy one-woman multi-media show features Elizabeth singing and performing solo! It's Taylor Swift's greatest hits with all the energy and excitement of an actual TS concert!

Enchanted Dreams: The Unofficial Tribute to the Music of Taylor Swift

Eagles fans! Mark your calendars because on January 28, 2026 Eagles Tribute - "Take It To The Limit" from Vancouver is making a spectacular return to Walnut Creek!

Take It To The Limit - A Tribute to the Eagles

California Symphony performs excerpts from Mozart’s brilliantly witty and melody-filled Don Giovanni in an arrangement for the Harmoniemusik of Mozart’s day, when bands of wind players would roam the streets of Vienna to promote coming attractions.

Schubert in Vienna

SFJAZZ is excited to partner with Diablo Regional Arts Association and the Lesher Center Presents Headliners series on its first ever season of concert events in Contra Costa County. Curated by SFJAZZ this thrilling line-up of internationally recognized jazz artists launches its inaugural residence at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts during the 2025-26 Season.

The Kenny Barron Trio featuring Tyreek McDole

At a time when tradition matters, The Biggest Gift is THE family event of the season! Christmas is in trouble someone has stolen Santa's letters, and without them, Christmas cannot continue! Join Tucker the Elf and a cast of lively toys as they embark on a festive adventure to solve the mystery and save the holiday. Full of laughter, heart, and holiday spirit, The Biggest Gift is a magical experience the whole family will cherish!

The Biggest Gift

Celebrate the festive season with an array of gorgeous light-filled music with our special guests, the Blackhawk Chorus. Rising-star violinist Simon Hagopian delights us with Vivaldi’s “Winter” and Beethoven’s glorious “Romance.”

Home for the Holidays: Winter Lights

Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church

Center REP has assembled an award-winning team of artists for this all-new production of the treasured holiday classic. In this heartfelt and exceedingly lively new adaptation, a young Tim Cratchit makes a wish on a candle, invoking a series of ghostly visitors to the bedside of miserly Ebenezer Scrooge. With a “humbug!” on his breath, the curmudgeon is whisked away on a journey of awakening. Celebrated playwright Harrison David Rivers’ tender retelling highlights the necessity of caring for the most vulnerable among us while delivering a profound love letter to Dickens’ beloved story. Immersing the audience in a dazzling digital design, nationally acclaimed director Jared Mezzocchi (Center REP’s Froggy) brings Victorian London and its netherworld to vivid life in this time-honored tale that asks us to contemplate the value of empathy over financial profits. Don’t miss the Bay Area’s grandest telling of Dickens’ classic in this not-to-be-missed premiere production.

A Christmas Carol

Begin your holiday season with a heartwarming celebration of festive favorites and enchanting musical moments for all ages.

Holiday Concert: Joyful & Triumphant

Full of rich harmonies, Montgomery’s Overture is a lively piece that blends elements of jazz, American classical music, and Baroque rhythms.

Beethoven’s Eroica

The second longest play in the history of London’s West End, The Woman in Black is the chilling theatrical event that has kept over seven million theatergoers on the edge of their seats for more than 30 years. When a young lawyer encounters a mysterious figure on the lonely, desolate estate he is charged to settle after the death of its owner, he believes his life has become cursed. To help him exorcise the dark specter from his life, he engages a skeptical actor to help him tell his terrifying story and together they unspool the mysteries hidden among the moors of the haunted estate. Hailed by critics as “a white-knuckle thrill” (San Francisco Chronicle) and “Ingenious!” (New York Times) Center REP audiences will be lured into the pulse-pounding and spine-tingling ghostly world of their own imaginations… what happens next is something you must see to believe!

The Woman in Black

Northern California's premier tribute band honoring the timeless music of 11-time Grammy winner Linda Ronstadt.

Ronstadt Revolution

Follow the story of Violetta - a high-class courtesan in 19th-century Paris - and her passionate love affair with Alfredo, a young nobleman. Despite their developing romance, the relationship is soon put under pressure as societal expectations, misunderstandings and illness threaten to tear them apart - ultimately leading to a heart breaking conclusion.

La Traviata

Step into a world of wonder at this thrilling concert featuring captivating music inspired by the epic adventures of wizards, witches, dragons, monsters, and other legendary tales.

Fall Pops Concert: Legends & Lore

Chicago has delivered five decades of gold and a score of award winning albums, becoming one of the most powerful and iconic groups in the world. With such recognizable hits as "Hard Habit to Break" "25 or 6 to 4" "Saturday In The Park" "If You Leave Me Now " "Colour My World" "You're the Inspiration" - [the list goes on and on!] Chicago's music has reached across the generations to become standards on both rock radio and on concert stages worldwide. Chicago the TRIBUTE is an 8-piece ensemble that delivers spot-on renditions of all the greatest hits of Chicago in this dynamic and exciting show featuring one of the most powerful horn sections in the country.

Chicago the TRIBUTE

Do you love the great Motown and R&B groups from the 60's through the 80's? Revisit the classic songs and stars of the era with 'The Best Intentions - a five-man vocal group extraordinaire as they perform their 'Classic Motown R&B Revue Show,' complete with heart-stopping harmonies...dazzling choreography...and the memorable hits you love most from Motown's golden age.

Motown Mania!

Two wandering travelers find themselves in Banbury Cross, a whimsical town that just so happens to be the home of Mother Goose and all of her beloved storybook characters! From Little Bo Peep and her missing sheep to the Three Little Pigs and their ever-present wolf troubles, the town is filled with familiar faces in need of a helping hand. As the travelers navigate this enchanted land, they soon discover that Banbury Cross is in danger. With courage, creativity, and a little bit of luck, they team up with the residents to save the town, proving that even the most unexpected heroes can make a difference in a fairy tale!

Mother Goose's The Legend of Banbury Cross

Jazz meets Classical in Gershwin’s An American in Paris, which paints a vibrant picture of bustling boulevards, blaring taxi horns, and even a drunken tourist stumbling down the street.

Pictures from Paris

February 19, 1923—the internationally renowned play God of Vengeance by Polish dramatist Sholem Asch opens on Broadway. Weeks later, the entire cast is arrested for obscenity. Is this play a seminal work of Jewish culture, or an act of traitorous libel? Bursting forth with an original Klezmer score, Pulitzer Prize winner Paula Vogel’s “riveting” (Variety) true tale shines a glaring light on the intersection of art and censorship when America was pitched at a cultural crossroads. “Masterful” (Entertainment Weekly) and “spellbinding” (Deadline), Indecent is a thunderously relevant modern theatrical classic that stands as a testament to the power of theatre and the resilient immigrant artists who create it.

Indecent

At age nine Chestnut was enrolled in the prep program at the Peabody Institute in Baltimore. He later headed to Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he received the Eubie Blake fellowship, the Oscar Peterson scholarship, and the Quincy Jones scholarship.

Cyrus Chestnut Trio

An explosive music review where rhythm, movement, and symbolism collide in a dazzling celebration of African American culture.

Chicken, Chitlins and Caviar

One of today's most accomplished interpreters of the great jazz standards, John Pizzarelli is known for his brilliant guitar work and smooth vocals. On his thirty albums Mr. Pizzarelli has brought classic standards and late night ballads to a new generation ready to swing and swoon. He has gained a wide following from his numerous stage, screen and television appearances and is setting the standard for stylish, modern jazz.

John Pizzarelli Trio

Saxophonist Branford Marsalis is one of the most influential and revered figures in contemporary music. The NEA Jazz Master, Grammy Award winner, and Tony and EMMY Award nominee is equally at home performing concertos with symphony orchestras and sitting in with members of the Grateful Dead, but the core of his musical universe remains the Branford Marsalis Quartet.

Branford Marsalis Quartet

One of the most popular musicals of all time, Poison Apple Productions and it's School Edition bring you the sights and sounds of the French Revolution! Come hear the people sing!

Les Misérables School Edition

Nominated for five Grammys, singer/pianist Karrin Allyson moves with ease and authority from the Great American Songbook of Gershwin and Porter to the Great American Jazz Songbook of Duke and Thelonius and Miles and Dizzy, with infusions of the musical essences of Rio and Paris. Legendary jazz critic Gary Giddins said in the Village Voice: "Allyson brings a timbre that is part ice and part grain — incisive, original, and emotionally convincing." This is an artist who brings plenty of heart and warmth to her singing, with an emotional range from bittersweet to sassy.

Karrin Allyson Quartet

Premiering in 1878, HMS PINAFORE was Gilbert & Sullivan’s first smash hit and became the gold standard for light opera for generations to come. While Gilbert takes aim at class divisions and assumptions of authoritative competence, Sullivan delivers some of the pair’s most famous hummable tunes, including the iconic and much parodied, “When I was a lad.” Sir Joseph Porter’s hymn to himself, this song to this day begs the question, “Is it possible that high offices of state are occupied by clueless idiots?” Queen Victoria may not have been amused by the satire of those in authority, but in nearly 150 years millions of audience members certainly have been!

H.M.S. Pinafore

Based out of San Francisco, California The Anthony Paule Soul Orchestra, was founded in 2007, by guitarist/songwriter Anthony Paule. Inspired by authentic Soul and Blues recordings of the ‘60s and ‘70s, this dramatic horn driven extravagant act took shape. Known for having great, authentic singers, APSO invites newest member, the incomparable vocalist Willy Jordan into the organization. Having worked with Elvin Bishop’s Big Fun Trio (which garnered him two Grammy Award nominations), John Lee Hooker among others, Willy holds court from a throne previously occupied by Wee Willie Walker, Frank Bey, and Terrie Odabi. Jordan’s commanding vocals and unpretentious stage presence, give audiences an honest, fresh, heartfelt experience.

Summer Sounds: The Anthony Paule Soul Orchestra featuring Willy Jordan

The British Invasion brought us the two most popular rock groups of all time, the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, as well as the liveliest debate in rock history - which band is the greatest?  These two legendary bands will engage in an on-stage, mash-up duel featuring internationally renowned tribute bands, Abbey Road and Jumping Jack Flash.

Beatles vs Stones - A Musical Showdown

Tutti Frutti The Musical, is a full length stage production starring Emmy and Broadway World Award Winning Actor, Dedrick Weathersby in the titular role; with stage direction by the accomplished Snoop Robinson, telling the story of The Architect of Rock and Roll, Richard Wayne Penniman, better known to The World as Little Richard. From his early days (1948) being discovered by the Godmother of Rock and Roll Sister Rosetta Tharpe. Starting out and spanning nearly 7 years of what would become a monumental career until his abrupt stop (1957). A young and ambitious writer for a prominent news journal company is given the daunting task of interviewing Mr. Richard Penniman for the Inaugural Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Class story, albeit reluctant of taken an assignment for "Non Well Known artist" Scott finds himself in a whirlwind of information and true Rock and Roll History. He will discover how a divided music industry, troubled but impactful childhood, sexual fluidity, ever so changing of the sounds of music and the murder and love for his father. shaped Mr. Richard's work. A live band accompanies, bringing the passion of his music alive while offering a message of freedom, breaking racial boundaries, artistic exploration and being bold enough to be Authentically You.

Tutti Frutti The Musical: The Life and Music of Little Richard

A high-energy funk and soul band known for reimagining timeless classics.

Summer Sounds: VUP

You Should Be Dancing is composed of exceptionally talented musicians dedicated to faithfully recreating the Bee Gees' iconic sound, while elevating the onstage visual experience. With meticulous attention to detail, they capture the essence of the brothers Gibb, delivering an unbelievable experience that transports audiences back to the golden era of disco and beyond.

Sing along to your favorite hits like "Stayin' Alive," How Deep Is Your Love," "Night Fever," "More Than A Woman", "How Can You Mend A Broken Heart", and so much more.

What are YOU waiting for?! You should be dancing!

You Should Be Dancing - A Tribute to the Bee Gees

Murder, madness, and mystery combine to weave a chilling tapestry of terror in Synergy Theater’s Spontaneous Hitchcock! Stuffed like a corpse with innocence accused, loyalty betrayed, sanity tested, and more twists and turns than a high-speed car chase in the dead of night on a mountain pass, this hysterical homage to Sir Alfred Hitchcock – completely improvised and all based on your suggestions - will keep you in stitches from the first creaking floorboard to the final shovel of dirt. So, fix Mother’s make up and bring her along to Spontaneous Hitchcock: An Improvised Thriller in the Style of the Master of Suspense. 

Spontaneous Hitchcock

A powerhouse roots band serving up grooves, sharp solos, and pure musical joy.

Rigney’s band of all stars simmers and cooks with musical intelligence. Their high energy live show features tight ensemble playing, deeply infectious grooves, and rich soloing. Renowned guitarist Danny Caron (Marcia Ball, Clifton Chenier, Charles Brown), boogie queen Caroline Dahl, Steve Parks on bass and Brent Rapone on drums have carved evocative and powerfully uplifting music, led by that guy in the red boots.

Summer Sounds: Tom Rigney and Flambeau

Performing Arts Studio's Summer Performing Arts Conservatory, the premier theatre program of The Ballet School Performing Arts, proudly presents The Comedy of Errors as part of its Festival of Showcases! After six weeks of intensive training in all aspects of theatre, our dedicated students bring Shakespeare's hilarious tale of mistaken identity, confusion, and chaos to life. Filled with fast-paced comedy and witty wordplay, this classic farce follows two sets of twins separated at birth as they unknowingly cross paths, leading to outrageous misunderstandings. Don't miss this exciting performance, showcasing the hard work and artistry of our conservatory students!

William Shakespeare's Conservatory Comedy of Errors

Join Scott Denison's Award-Winning Directing Class, a highlight of the Summer Performing Arts Conservatory at Performing Arts Studio, the premier theatre program of The Ballet School Performing Arts! In this hands-on course, students take on the full creative process, directing, costuming, designing lights, sound, and sets for their scenes, all while performing in two scenes themselves. As a unique feature, students also call their show live from the audience, giving audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of theatre. A dynamic, immersive, and exciting experience, this class is a must for any aspiring director or performer!

Summer Performing Arts Conservatory Directing Showcase

Join us for the Young Actors Studio Musical Theatre Showcase, the exciting culmination of our 4-week summer theatre training program! Featuring talented students ages 5-12, this  performance highlights their hard work and dedication to honing their craft. Enjoy an enchanting evening as these young actors take the stage, performing songs from beloved Broadway classics. This showcase is a celebration of their growth and passion for musical theatre.

Young Actors Studio Musical Theatre Showcase

Young REP Theatre Lab students proudly showcase their skills in acting, improv, media design and technology, playwriting, and more.

Young REP Theatre Lab Showcase

Established in 1994, the group had a strong beginning thanks to the mentorship of Lola Bertran, La Reina de La Musica Ranchera. In these early days, Maestro Jóse Hernàndez saw the potential in this all-female ensemble, and fostered the development of the group. Reyna de Los Angeles® has since gone on to record three albums, share the stage with world-renowned musicians like Vicki Carr, Guadalupe Pineda, and Lucha Villa, and perform for some of the world’s highest profile celebrities including Tom Cruise, Oprah Winfrey, and Barack and Michelle Obama.

Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles

In our first co-production with TheatreWorks Silicon Valley, celebrated Bay Area composer / playwright Min Kahng (The Four Immigrants) has created a world-premiere musical that explodes everything you thought you knew about being young and successful—and old and horny.

When internet influencer Jade Park is cancelled online, she seeks redemption by taking on a precarious challenge—helping her rebellious grandmother June, who has the raised eyebrows of many in her senior residential community following a string of mysterious deaths of her lovers. When the body count starts to rise, the pressure is on Jade to solve the mystery and save her grandmother’s (sex) life! This romp of a world-premiere musical explodes the social taboos around aging by celebrating the Boomer spirit and the intergenerational connections that make family worth fighting for.

HAPPY PLEASANT VALLEY: A Senior Sex Scandal Murder Mystery Musical

New premieres and old favorites define Dance Series 2. Artistic Director Amy Seiwert creates a World Premiere, her 13th ballet for the Company. Trey McIntyre returns to Smuin with the Bay Area premiere of his Wild Sweet Love, an ode to the ups and downs of love set to a range of music from Mendelsohn to Queen. McIntyre’s “fertility of invention and modernity of spirit” (The New York Times) is no stranger to Smuin, and we’re delighted to add another of his ballets to our repertory. Completing the program is a pair of favorites: Michael Smuin’s Rodin-inspired The Eternal Idol, originally choreographed for American Ballet Theatre superstars Cynthia Gregory and Ivan Nagy and Smuin Alum Rex Wheeler’s spritely, springy Sinfonietta.

Smuin's Dance Series 2

This brand-new production of "Alice in Wonderland" by Brian Enos takes you on a journey down the rabbit hole into an extraordinary imaginative world as Alice meets unforgettable characters and falls in love with the magic of Wonderland. Also featured is the Diablo Ballet premiere of Gerald Arpino's romantic "Reflections", the fast-paced neoclassical work set to Tchaikovsky's "Variations on a Rococo Theme".

Diablo Ballet's Alice in Wonderland

Newsmakers: Dave Barry

Travel down the Mississippi with Florence Price and the Moldau with Bedrich Smetana, respectively, in a Mother’s Day concert that celebrates musical creativity and the beauty of Mother Earth. The melodic and rhythmic ebb and flow of Price’s Mississippi Suite reveals the landscapes, birds, and people in the lands of southern spirituals and New Orleans jazz, and Smetana’s  “The Moldau,” capturing the composer’s love of his homeland, flows past jubilant hunters, a village wedding, a legendary gorge, and whitewater rapids before reaching Prague and its Bohemian castle, Vyšehrad. And Rokeach’s creative Piccolo Concerto, featuring soloist Amy Likar, takes the listener on an optimistic and celebratory journey while also showcasing the instrument’s uniquely sweet-toned low register

A Musical Mother's Day: River Journeys

After a stormy beginning, Dorothy shares friendship with a Scarecrow, Tin Man, and a Lion. Together using brains, a heart, and courage, they set out on a dangerous journey with excitement at every turn along the Yellow Brick Road.


Wizard of Oz

An evening of music representing the golden days of Broadway.

May Concert - On Broadway

“Whack!” Percussionist Ken Bergmann is back with his smashing spectacle of drums, cowbells, chairs and more in Percussion Discussion. Incorporating instruments from around the globe, the popular family-oriented show features a hysterical romp through the sound effects of Hollywood, a unique look at the computer age, all the flash one would expect from a drummer gone amok and for no apparent reason, a cymbal clanging monkey.

Percussion Discussion

Joi Rhone presents Audience of one (Tribute to the King) with Tunde Lasode and friends. At our last show, we had such a breakthrough sold out show!!! A spectacular night that featured amazing musicians who displayed their amazing musical gifts before our deserving king, Jesus! This time, we are taking it up a notch, paying tribute to our King with music and performance by Anastasis Ballet! This show will feature a professional ballet worship performance along with the live ensemble and horn section, with african 'talking' drum. It will be another show to remember! Our Audience from different works of life, and faith couldn't get enough the last time. Come, join us in paying tribute to our King, It is more than just music! It doesn't matter what faith you are, it will bless you. It is not religious, but relationship oriented. Come experience and explore connection with the CREATOR through divinely crafted music, a fine tapestry woven with skillful threads of inspired notes!!! Come, experience joy like never before. Audience of one (Tribute to the King) with Tunde Lasode and friends will again be another Night to remember!!! See you soon.

Tunde Lasode - Audience of One (Tribute to the King)

Newsmakers: Martin Luther King III

Actress/Singer Rebecca Clark becomes Barbra Streisand in this live one-woman musical delivering all the greatest hits of this legendary singer. Hailed as one of the best Barbra Streisand performers in the world, Miss Clark's performances have wowed audiences worldwide.

She's performed at Legends In Concert in Las Vegas, Stars In Concert in Berlin, The Cannes Film Festival and in prestigious clubs from coast to coast.

Hello Gorgeous! A Live Tribute to Barbra Streisand

Miguel Zenon_Main ImageThe internationally acclaimed Grammy Award-winner has been hailed as one of the most influential saxophonists of his generation. Named in May 2024 as one of two musicians for the prestigious Doris Duke Award, Miguel Zenon is at the forefront of blending the often-contradictory poles of innovation and tradition—all while balancing his extensive international touring schedule with his role as a faculty member in the music and arts department at MIT.

Miguel Zenón

NEA Jazz Master, Two-time EMMY and Oscar Nominee, Seven-time GRAMMY® winning trumpeter & composer Terence Blanchard has established himself as the quintessential 21st Century Renaissance man. In celebration of his artistic achievements, Blanchard will reunite the extraordinary band that collaborated on his critically acclaimed album, FLOW, for a 20th anniversary tour in 2025.

Twenty years ago, Blanchard assembled an exceptional lineup consisting of Brice Winston on saxophone, Lionel Loueke on guitar and vocals, Aaron Parks on piano, Derrick Hodge on bass, and Kendrick Scott on drums. This group entered the studio with the intention of delving into the fundamental question: What brings joy and purpose to people's lives? Both the question and the title of the album were inspired by the renowned psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, and his book Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience which explores creativity, peak performance, and genuine happiness.

Terence Blanchard

From Vegas to Honolulu, to New York, to Berlin… Rob has come to be known as the ‘King of Diamonds’ as he is able to naturally capture the presence, passion, and energy of this iconic performer in all his youthful ‘JAZZ SINGER’ glory. Those who have witnessed Rob’s unparalleled performances will testify that YOU SIMPLY CAN’T GET ANY CLOSER!

In 2008 Rob was awarded with the “Male Musical Tribute Artist of the Year” award in Las Vegas marking the first (and only) time a Neil Diamond tribute act has won such an honor. Rob Garrett and his top notch showband take a break from their current full time residency in Las Vegas's Alexis Park Modern Showroom to take their award winning show cross country to venues nationwide. Be part of the magic!

The Neil Diamond Concert Experience

In this live musical performance, 'Come Together' recreates the look, sound and history of the Beatles, taking you back into time to witness the Beatles phenomenal rise to pop stardom.

Through authentic costumes, superbly intricate live performances and soaring vocal harmonies,
'Come Together' takes audiences on a musical journey from the early years of the Beatles's British Invasion through their legendary 60's and 70's recordings with highlights of the Sgt. Pepper era, as well as their solo careers.

Come Together: The Beatles Concert Experience

Perilous journeys, fearsome barbarians, powerful wizards, impossible puzzles, and fire-breathing dragons pour onto stage like an endless supply of food and weapons from a magical Bag of Holding in Synergy Theater’s Improvised Dungeons and Dragons! Completely improvised and all based on your suggestions, this hysterical tribute to the world’s most popular role-playing game will cast its spell of Hideous Laughter on all who enter our realm. So, grab your Boots of Speed, wrap yourself up in your Cloak of Charisma, and come along on our epic adventure. 

Improvised Dungeons and Dragons

Brazile: Veteran Democratic Political Strategist Columnist
Will: Pulitzer Prize-Winning Columnist and Author

Newsmakers: Donna Brazile & George Will

Now in her mid-50’s—and recently ‘liberated’ from her child and husband—Sharon needs a roommate to share her Iowa home. Robyn, also in her mid-50s, seeks a refuge and a chance to reboot. When the two become roomies and their odd-couple of a friendship deepens, truths emerge, along with hidden talents and secret desires. Part mystery, part comedy and altogether original, this two-hander contemporary classic takes on what it means to be middle aged, middle class, in the middle of America, and how to change it all by throwing caution to the wind.

The Roommate

The ocean as a force of nature and its reflection of human emotion have inspired composers across the centuries. Debussy's La Mer (The Sea) forms a magical, ever-changing soundscape that has enchanted audiences for more than a century. Composer-in-residence Josiah Catalan's ocean-inspired new world - commissioned by the DSO - will transport listeners of today and tomorrow. Andcellist extraordinaire Evan Kahn will delight with two wonderful works you won't often get to hear: alexander Glazunov's "Melodies" for cello and orchestra and Erich Korngold's Cello Concerto

The Sea in Us

This iconic ballet set to Pyotr Tchaikovsky's majestic score highlights Act 2 and 3 and includes white and black swan pas de deux, a flurry of swans, exhilarating divertissements and a grand finale.

Patrons who purchase tickets to the Saturday, March 29th, 2 pm performance of Swan Lake Suite are invited to a complimentary post-performance meet and greet with the cast, autograph signing, and more immediately following the performance. 

Diablo Ballet's Swan Lake Suite

Experience the vibrant sounds of the season at the Walnut Creek Concert Band's Spring Concert, showcasing an uplifting mix of contemporary and classic wind band pieces that celebrate the beauty and renewal of spring. Join us for an unforgettable evening of music that promises to inspire and delight audiences of all ages.

Spring Concert

California Symphony’s Young American Composer-in-Residence (2023-26) Saad Haddad presents his second commission for the orchestra. 
Grażyna Bacewicz incorporates Polish folk themes in a piece that features intense moments of drama and a demanding and virtuosic lead role for piano, played here by internationally acclaimed pianist David Fung.
Tchaikovsky’s sixth and final symphony is also known as the Pathétique, but the composer originally called it the Passionate. Grand, sweeping, and with themes you’ll recognize from movies and pop culture, it’s one of the Russian melody master’s most popular and frequently performed works. 

Tchaikovsky Passion

This multi-ethnic company performs a forward-thinking repertoire that includes treasured classics and innovative contemporary works that celebrate Black culture and empowerment through the arts for all.

Dance Theatre of Harlem is a leading dance institution of unparalleled global acclaim, encompassing a professional touring company, a leading studio school, and a national and international education and community outreach program. Each component of Dance Theatre of Harlem carries a solid commitment towards enriching the lives of young people and adults around the world through the arts. Founded in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell and Karel Shook, Dance Theatre of Harlem is considered “one of ballet’s most exciting undertakings” (The New York Times). Shortly after the assassination of The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Mitchell was inspired to start a school that would offer children—especially those in Harlem, the community in which he was born—the opportunity to learn about dance and the allied arts. Now in its sixth decade, Dance Theatre of Harlem has grown into a multi-cultural dance institution with an extraordinary legacy of providing opportunities for creative expression and artistic excellence that continues to set standards in the performing arts. Dance Theatre of Harlem has achieved unprecedented success, bringing innovative and bold new forms of artistic expression to audiences in New York City, across the country and around the world.

Dance Theatre of Harlem

A cleverly tuneful combination of two favorites comes alive as Little Red Riding Hood and Goldilocks get more than they bargained for when they change places for a day.

Once Upon A Time: The Adventures of Goldilocks and Little Red

A collection of serious music for Wind Symphony, ranging from marches to modern.

March Concert

A musical celebration of one of the best-selling artists of all time, Billy Nation thrills audiences with a high energy authentic concert experience of three decades of Billy Joel's hits. Featuring the dynamic virtuosity of Adam Shapiro as Billy Joel along with his 6-piece band, Billy Nation captures Billy's stylistic range with ease from anthems like 'Piano Man' to rocking songs like 'You May Be Right' to beautiful ballads like 'Just the Way You Are'. Complete with Billy's signature grand piano, growling saxophone, rich

A Tribute to Billy Joel with Billy Nation

Fly into Neverland with Wendy, Peter Pan and Tinker Bell in this new original, multimedia adaptation! In their adventures, with the Lost Boys and Captain Hook, Wendy learns that a brain filled with fear has little space for dreams. Using popular songs from the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s, stunning digital scenery, life sized puppets and live performers, children receive a valuable message, and adults enjoy a wonderfully entertaining show for audiences of all ages!

DLUX Puppets' Peter Pan

You’ll hear the two surviving movements of Franz Schubert’s haunting and beautiful final symphony, and the three completed movements of Anton Bruckner’s Symphony No. 9.
Declining health, hesitation over how to continue the piece, work overload, and even that the pages were completed but ultimately lost... Theories abound, but no one knows why Schubert never finished his eighth and final symphony. 

Unfinished Bruckner

Pete Peterkin has become a bit of a legend himself, having come to worldwide fame as a finalist on "America's Got Talent" and his long running series of tribute shows in Las Vegas. He's appeared in hundreds of productions along the Las Vegas Strip, including his own residency at the Flamingo Hilton. He's been nicknamed "The World's Greatest Celebrity Impressionist," with an astounding repertoire of over 200 celebrity impressions, including Stevie Wonder, Chuck Berry, Little Richard, and many others.

Ray Charles, Chuck Berry, Little Richard & Friends

Newsmakers: Vicente Fox

Experience the magic, romance and excitement of the music of Frank Sinatra in this special one-performance-only-celebration featuring the greatest romantic ballads and swingin' hits of ol' blue eyes himself, the 'chairman of the board!'

Nobody delivered a song like Frank Sinatra, and Las Vegas-style entertainer Jonathan Poretz delivers them with pizazz and style backed by a smokin' hot Jazz Ensemble. This show features all the great hits of Frank Sinatra and a salute to the legendary singers of Las Vegas with select interpretations from the Great American Songbook.

Simply Sinatra: 110 Years of Ol' Blue Eyes

The sold-out, only-at-the-Lesher Center event returns! Our annual College Notes event features a cappella groups from top universities from across the country and is sure to be the perfect harmony of bright minds and bright voices! 

College Notes A Cappella

Mandy P_Main ImageBefore he was an Emmy-winning TV star, Mandy Patinkin was already a Tony-winning Broadway legend. Mandy Patinkin in Concert: Being Alive with Adam Ben-David on Piano presents the acclaimed actor/singer/storyteller in his most electrifying role: concert performer. “Mandy Patinkin is in the business of showstopping,” raves The New Yorker, and that’s exactly what he does in this powerful, passionate evening of song. BEING ALIVE is a collection of many of his favorite Broadway and classic American tunes. From Irving Berlin to Stephen Sondheim, from Cole Porter to Harry Chapin, Mandy Patinkin takes you on a dazzling musical journey you’ll never forget. Mandy Patinkin has been fortunate to carve out a varied career including theater, the concert stage, film, television, and as a recording artist. 


Mandy Patinkin in Concert: Being Alive with Adam Ben-David on Piano

It’s 2007, and motion capture “3D” animation has taken the film and video gaming industry by storm. For Froggy, it’s been a year of obsessing over her actor boyfriend’s disappearance. When she discovers clues to his whereabouts embedded in a violent, underground video game, Froggy dives down a deadly rabbit hole to uncover his—and her own—fate. From the brilliantly demented minds of Blackburn Award-winner Jennifer Haley (The Nether, Netflix’s Mindhunter), multimedia artist / Obie Award-winner Jared Mezzocchi,(VietGone) and directed by Center REP Artistic Director Matt M. Morrow, FROGGY is next generation storytelling, fusing the styles of graphic novels, film noir, and today’s revolutionary virtual media to create a thrilling new theatrical event not to be missed.

Froggy

This orchestral program celebrates the incredible variety of dance music composed and performed in the United States. Florence Price's 1951 orchestral Suite of Dances reflects the composer's African American heritage, and Russian émigré Sergei Rachmaninov's 1941 Symphonic Dances echoes the homeland he fled in 1917. Contemporary American composer Libby Larson describes her 2016 "Dancing Man Rhapsody" - written for our soloist, violinist Terrie Baune - as a "cornucopia of music in motion."

Sounds of the Americas: American Dance!

Julia Adam's "Cinderella's Wedding", based on the second act full-length fairytale ballet, includes the infamous glass slipper, romantic pas de deux, and the four seasons with her attendants; Autumn, Winter, Spring and Summer fairies. Also featured is the Diablo Ballet premiere of George Balanchine's cheerful "Donizetti Variations" with music from the opera Don Sebastian; and an encore presentation of the heartwarming "Dr. Magic" by Penny Saunders. 

Diablo Ballet's Cinderella's Wedding

Direct from Las Vegas, Elvis Tribute artist extraordinaire Greg Miller stars in this one man show highlighting Elvis Presley's meteoric rise to fame in the late 1950's to his groundbreaking Aloha and Las Vegas 1970's concerts. Greg Miller is recognized as one of the world's best Elvis tribute artists, accomplished in his recreation of the look, sound and moves of The King. He's performed as Elvis worldwide, including headlining shows for 'Legends In Concert'. Greg maintains a performance of remarkable authenticity and has become one of the biggest Elvis headliners in Las Vegas. Come get 'All Shook Up' as we present... The Wonder of Elvis!

The Wonder of Elvis starring Greg Miller

Eagles fans! Mark your calendars because on February 4th, 2025 Eagles Tribute - "Take It To The Limit" from Vancouver, Canada performs in Walnut Creek for the 1st time!

Get ready for an unforgettable night of live music as some of Canada's most talented musicians and vocalists bring to life your favourite Eagles hits, including classics like "Hotel California," "Heartache Tonight," "Peaceful Easy Feeling," "Take It To The Limit," "Desperado," "Life In The Fast Lane," "Take It Easy," "Lyin' Eyes," and more!

Inspired by the words of theologian and former San Francisco resident Howard Thurman, Simons’ Breathe is a calming appeal to “stay put for a while.”
For music lovers and guitar enthusiasts alike, Rodrigo's iconic Concierto de Aranjuez features evocative melodies and distinctive Spanish guitar solos designed to transport you to another time and place.  

Mozart Serenity

Stella Cole_Main ImageTo watch Stella Cole perform is to be transported back in time. Her sense of joy and wonder is infectious—one look at her massive social media following makes this clear. Take a quick scroll through the comments of any of her many viral videos and you’ll see not only her irresistible charm, but an ability to expose fans of all ages to the wonders of the Great American Songbook, especially when these timeless stories are told honestly by an artist with an uncanny ability to transcend generations.

On her highly anticipated debut recording and concert tour, Stella is presented performing / interpreting a collection of classics in a variety of settings, including many featuring an orchestra arranged by multiple Grammy-winner Alan Broadbent. Featuring songs made famous by everyone from Barbara Streisand (“When the Sun Comes Out”) and Judy Garland (The Boy Next Door” as well as a classic re-interpretation of “Over the Rainbow”) to Billie Eilish (“My Future”) and Audrey Hepburn (“Moon River”), it is sure to be one of the most impressive vocal recordings of 2024.

Stella Cole

Abba-mania reigns supreme as the eight-piece production show The Abba Concert Experience starring Summer Night City performs all the greatest hits of one of the world's most beloved pop Super-Groups of the 70's: ABBA! Featuring Lead Singers Rachel Songer [as Agnetha] and Gro Bondevik [as Frida] formerly of 'Supertrouper'!

The ABBA Concert Experience

Mysterious murders, dogged detectives, and dedicated district attorneys...Dun-Dun! Will the murder be solved? Will the jury convict? And will law and order finally prevail? You decide because you become the jury at the end of Synergy Theater’s hysterical homage to everybody’s favorite cops-and-courtroom show. Completely improvised and all based on your suggestions. Laughter will be served! 

Improvised Law and Order

A fan favorite on NBC’s The Voice, the Bay Area native has toured with Boz Scaggs, Michael McDonald, Johnny Mathis and more! With natural ability, strong will, and determination, Ms Monét continues to make a name for herself in the music industry, as she has been sought out to write, produce, arrange, vocal-train and perform some of the world’s greatest hits and work alongside some of the world’s leading performers. As an artist, Ms. Monét’s constant push forward continues to drive her development and success. It’s no wonder she’s been called, “The Monificent.”

Ms. Monét

Learn more about Marlee Mating & Henry Winkler here. 

Newsmakers: Marlee Matlin & Henry Winkler

Did you send your letter to Santa? Then why has he not received it? No letters – No Christmas. Join the fun and laughter as Tucker the elf and the toys set out to save Christmas.

Join Santa and Mrs. Claus in the North Pole, during this immersive, live theatre experience. Watch as the holiday magic brings a smile to your entire family! In this exclusive visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus in their kitchen and workshop, your group of up to 6 members will enjoy a private meeting and photo opportunity.

It is important that you arrive before your scheduled time slot - Santa and Mrs. Claus are very busy this time of year and may not be able to visit with your family should you arrive late. Please schedule your visit with plenty of time to arrive.

Visit to the North Pole

This festive event brings joy to all ages! Corelli's Concerto Grosso in G Minor ("Christmas Concerto") concludes with a musical image of shepherds rejoicing, capturing the joy of the season also reflected in Pergolesi's uplifting setting of the Magnificat. The Fratello Marionettes bring scenes from the The Nutcracker to life, in interpretations by both Tchaikovsky and Duke Ellington! The San Ramon Valley Chroale's beautiful singing will complete this holiday celebration.

Holiday Concert: Home for the Holidays

Return to bustling Victorian London—and the gloomy office of miserly old Scrooge, who dismisses the cheerful sounds of the holiday season with a “humbug!” When he is visited by three spooky spirits, the curmudgeon is forced to face his past, present, and his potential future, unless he comes to believe the true meaning of family, and the magic of the holiday season. Brimming with carols, music, dance, spectacular special effects and a multigenerational cast of nearly two dozen, Center REP’s annual production has been hailed by critics and audiences alike as “THE Christmas Carol to see in the Bay Area!”

The Ballet School Performing Arts Winter Piano Recital features the Piano students of The Ballet School Performing Arts.

Lesher Center for the Arts

21 - 22 Mar, 2026

Northern Lights

Mar 29, 2026

Family Concert: Joy of the Symphony

Mar 29 - Apr 19, 2026

Lost in Yonkers

Apr 11, 2026

Quatuor Danel

Apr 18, 2026

Gerald Clayton

Mar 20, 2026

Sarah McKenzie

Mar 17, 2026

Spring Concert: The Emerald Awakening

Articles & News

Lesher Center for the Arts