Prepare to be enchanted, entertained, and inspired as Wharton Center for Performing Arts unveils a mesmerizing lineup of events this season. From mind-boggling magic shows to enchanting ballets, and from raucous musical comedies to heartwarming mariachi celebrations, there is something for everyone. Dive into a world where magic defies logic, music transcends boundaries, and dance tells stories that touch the soul. With stellar performances like Bill Blagg's magic, the World Ballet Company's Nutcracker, and the Grammy-nominated Mariachi Herencia de México, the Wharton Center promises an experience filled with wonder and joy.

A Whirlwind of Magic, Music, and Dance: Wharton Center's Unforgettable Season

The Wharton Center for Performing Arts in East Lansing, MI, is set to host an extraordinary array of performances from January to February 2025. This eclectic lineup features the hilarious musical comedy 'Shucked,' the genre-blending ensemble Time For Three, the acrobatic enchantment of MOMIX's 'Alice,' and the iconic MJ musical, among others. Each show offers a unique cultural experience, showcasing the talents of award-winning artists and performers, while celebrating diverse musical and theatrical traditions. Get ready for a season of unforgettable entertainment that promises to captivate audiences with its creativity and charm.

Unveiling East Lansing's Artistic Wonders: From Musical Gems to Acrobatic Marvels

The Wharton Center for Performing Arts is set to offer an exciting lineup of events, showcasing a rich tapestry of music, dance, and theater. From the classically-infused sounds of Time For Three to the acrobatic wonders of Momix: Alice, and the captivating musical journey of MJ, these performances promise to engage and inspire audiences. With additional offerings like Brandon Woody's Upendo and the mesmerizing storytelling of Life of Pi, the season ahead at Wharton Center is a celebration of artistic diversity and innovation.

Diverse Artistic Experiences at Wharton Center: A Journey Through Music, Dance, and Theatre

Spring 2025 at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts is set to be a vibrant celebration of culture, history, and music. From the soulful echoes of New Orleans jazz to the Broadway razzle-dazzle of 'Chicago,' and the historic saga of 'Hamilton,' the lineup promises an eclectic mix of performances. This season, audiences will also be treated to the improvisational humor of 'Broadway's Next Hit Musical,' the deep cultural rhythms of Zydeco, and the breathtaking artistry of ballet. A cultural festival in its own right, these events are sure to captivate and inspire audiences of all tastes.

Cultural Tapestry: A Spring of Diverse Performances at Wharton Center

Experience the vibrant tapestry of performing arts at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts in East Lansing, Michigan. From the lively rhythms of Zydeco music with Terrance Simien to the graceful choreography of Ballet Biarritz's 'The Seasons,' and the epic narratives of 'Hamilton' and 'The Book of Mormon,' this lineup promises a cultural feast. Join us as we delve into these iconic events that celebrate creativity, history, and innovation in the arts.

A Cultural Extravaganza at Wharton Center: Music, Dance, and Theater

Prepare to be swept off your feet as the Wharton Center for Performing Arts presents two monumental musicals - 'Hamilton' and 'The Book of Mormon'. From May 21 to June 1, 2025, witness the groundbreaking and culturally significant narrative of Alexander Hamilton. Then, from June 19 to June 22, indulge in the humorous and thought-provoking journey of two missionaries in 'The Book of Mormon'. Both performances promise to engage, entertain, and leave audiences in awe of their storytelling and musical prowess.

A Tale of Two Musicals: Experience Hamilton and The Book of Mormon at Wharton Center

The Wharton Center for Performing Arts is set to dazzle audiences with two Broadway juggernauts—'Hamilton' and 'The Book of Mormon.' From May 21 to June 22, 2025, immerse yourself in the dramatic rise of Alexander Hamilton and the side-splitting journey of two missionaries. These musicals not only redefine storytelling through their innovative scores and narratives but also showcase the unmatched creativity of their creators, Lin-Manuel Miranda and the duo of Trey Parker and Matt Stone. Prepare for a theatrical experience that's as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.

Wharton Center Hosts Broadway Giants: 'Hamilton' and 'The Book of Mormon'

Nothing evokes the joy and magic of the holiday season quite like the celestial voices of the Vienna Boys Choir. In this special concert for the season, the Vienna Boys Choir perform everything from Gregorian chant and traditional Christmas carols to popular holiday favorites and songs from around the world. The choir has charmed audiences around the globe for decades with their rapturous harmonies, purity of tone, delightful repertoire, and charming demeanor. “The angelic voices of this most famous vocal group are ageless,” says Salt Lake Tribune. This celebrated choir has been synonymous with fine choral music for over 500 years and has collaborated with some of the world’s greatest composers, including Mozart and Bruckner. Franz Schubert was himself a chorister. This is truly an enchanting evening of music for the entire family.

Vienna Boys Choir

Wharton Center for Performing Arts

Superstars Les Arts Florissants are joined by fast-rising violinist Théotime Langlois de Swarte in “Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at 300” commemorating the work’s original publication in 1725. The program frames these iconic masterpieces afresh, setting them alongside music Vivaldi would have known in Venice and compositions that were in turn inspired by his bold vision.

Les Arts Florissants with Théotime Langlois de Swarte

Hailed as one of the "most important bands in music since the dawn of the rock and roll era", the legendary rock and roll band with horns, Chicago, came in as the highest charting American band in Billboard Magazine's Top 125 Artists Of All Time. Chicago is the first American rock band to chart Top 40 albums in six consecutive decades.

Chicago

Direct from the Tony Award® winning Revival of Company, Nicholas Rodriguez (One Life to Live, Sex and the City 2) celebrates Stephen Sondheim with his brand-new concert SINCERELY, SONDHEIM—a nod to both the lyrical and musical genius of the late composer and his reputation. Pulling from the thousands of handwritten letters to fans and colleagues alike, Rodriguez weaves together stories from Sondheim’s own words and explores the fascinating relationships with legends such as Oscar Hammerstein II, Jerry Herman, Jonathan Larson, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and of course, his own personal story.

Sincerely, Sondheim with Nicholas Rodriguez

New Jazz Underground, an innovative American jazz trio, has earned acclaim for their distinctive approach in establishing themselves as a defining voice in jazz and beyond. Merging traditional jazz sensibilities with modern influences like swing, hip-hop, house/afro-beat, and afro-Cuban music, the trio gained recognition through viral videos showcasing their chemistry, musicality, and raw ambition. Comprised of Abdias Armenteros, Sebastian Rios, and TJ Reddick, each lauded as promising young jazz artists, the Juilliard School graduates have achieved accolades like winning the 2023 DCJazzPrix™ and the 2024 ASCAP Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composer Award. Beyond performance, their independent video production sets a new standard for jazz presentation, attracting millions to an authentic musical expression blending modernism and tradition. Dynamic and powerful performers, New Jazz Underground's talents are re-energizing the contemporary music world, serving as a benchmark for the future of jazz.

New Jazz Underground

Based on the worldwide bestselling hit series by Dav Pilkey, Dog Man: The Musical is a hilarious and heartwarming production following the chronicles of Dog Man, who with the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture. But while trying his best to be a good boy, can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings? Can he catch Petey, the world’s most evil cat, who has cloned himself to exact revenge on the doggy do-gooder? And will George and Harold finish their show before lunchtime? Find out in this epic musical adventure featuring the hilarity and heart of beloved characters from Dav Pilkey, the creator of Captain Underpants and Cat Kid Comic Club. Featuring an exciting book and lyrics by Kevin Del Aguila, music by Brad Alexander, and original direction and choreography by Jen Wineman.

Dog Man

Affirmation in a time of violence and resistance: Kurbasy channels contemporary connections to an archaic past with its time-bending Songs of the Ukrainian Forest.

Kurbasy

Be Our Guest at Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, the breathtaking musical filled with the romance and grandeur audiences know and love.

Disney's Beauty and the Beast

Get ready to be blown away by Mokoomba, Africa's shooting stars! With electrifying beats, driving rhythms, and unmatched harmonies, their Afro-fusion sound will have you on your feet all night long.

Mokoomba

Anime fans and adventurers of all ages are invited on a symphonic quest! Revisit the beloved multiple award-winning television series, created by Bryan Konietzko and Michael Dante DiMartino, as an immersive musical experience in concert halls around the world. AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER IN CONCERT is a soaring symphonic journey. The orchestra will perform Emmy Award-winning composer Jeremy Zuckerman’s epic compositions from the series that he has re-orchestrated exclusively for the concert experience. Classic instruments from Asian traditions—such as taiko drums and the erhu, key to the signature sound that the series is known for—will take center stage as audiovisual moments from the series appear chronologically on a giant cinema screen. The event is conceived by the series original composer and editor and will include exclusive content to ensure a one-of-a-kind experience for fans.

Avatar the Last Airbender in Concert

Immerse yourself in the jazzy world of flappers and champagne with this new and entirely original production from World Ballet Company. Experience the glitz, glamor, and tragic romance of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s timeless novel LIVE on stage, featuring a multinational cast, lustrous hand-crafted costumes, and sweeping Art Deco-inspired sets, brought to life by WBC’s all-star creative team.

World Ballet Company: The Great Gatsby Ballet

The 1977 multi-platinum album Rumours became Fleetwood Mac’s most celebrated album and one of Top Ten best-selling albums of all time. Ranked 7th in Rolling Stone's list of the "500 Greatest Albums of All Time" and now, for the first time in popular music, Rumours is recreated live on stage with Classic Albums Live with some of the best musicians performing today. Note for note, cut for cut.

Classic Albums Live performs Fleetwood Mac: "RUMOURS"

Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A BEAUTIFUL NOISE is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-busting, show-stopping American rock icon. With 120 million albums sold, a catalogue of classics like "America," "Forever in Blue Jeans," and "Sweet Caroline," an induction into the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and sold-out concerts around the world that made him bigger than Elvis, Neil Diamond's story was made to shine on Broadway—and head out on the road across America.

A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical

Celebrate the Wharton’s extraordinary legacy and lifelong passion for the arts with an unforgettable afternoon at Wharton Center for Performing Arts.

Dr. & Mrs. Wharton Tribute Concert

Get ready for ice cream, great music, and fun. Stick around to chat with MSU RSOs and university organizations, and be on the lookout for the Wharton Center Student Marketing Organization’s ticket giveaway.

EPSG:4326

Wharton Welcomes

Michigan State University

Emmy-winning, Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild, and Tony Award® nominated Michigan native Jeff Daniels performs an intimate and unforgettable night of stories and songs on the acoustic and electric guitar. Back by demand after his sold-out 2017 appearance, music lovers and movie fans alike will enjoy his songs, playing, and musicianship, and those stories that only he can tell.

An Evening with Jeff Daniels

Get ready for an unforgettable night at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts in East Lansing, USA! On June 19, 2025, experience a spectacular performing arts event that will leave you spellbound. The show starts at 19:30, so make sure to arrive early to get the best seats. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and artistic excellence that the Wharton Center is known for. For more sneak peeks and updates, check out their official website at whartoncenter.com or their YouTube channel. Secure your tickets now at Ticketmaster! Don't miss out on this mesmerizing evening of performing arts.

The Book of Mormon (Touring)

Wharton Center

Experience the unparalleled wit and humor of "The Book of Mormon" at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts, coming to you from June 19 to June 22, 2025. This nine-time Tony Award-winning Best Musical has captivated audiences worldwide with its brilliant satire and outstanding musical score. Set in the magnificent Cobb Great Hall, this event promises an unforgettable evening of laughter and thought-provoking comedy.

"The Book of Mormon" follows the hilarious journey of two mismatched missionaries, sent across the globe to share their scriptures with the world. Praised by critics and audiences alike, The New York Times heralds it as the best musical of the century, while The Washington Post and Entertainment Weekly laud its faith-restoring and side-splitting qualities. Jimmy Fallon of The Tonight Show has even called it "Genius. Brilliant. Phenomenal."

Tickets are now on sale, with special subscription rates starting at $45. Performances are scheduled as follows:
- Thursday, June 19, at 7:30 PM
- Friday, June 20, at 7:30 PM
- Saturday, June 21, at 2:00 PM and again at 7:30 PM
- Sunday, June 22, at 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM

Please note, the show contains explicit language and may not be suitable for all audiences. Special effects such as flashing lights, haze, and fog are used throughout the performance. For those requiring accessibility services, sign language interpretation, audio description, and open captioning are available upon request for select performances.

Don't miss your chance to see what critics have called the funniest musical of all time. Secure your tickets today and prepare for an evening that restores your faith in musicals. For more information on tickets, accessibility services, and the full event schedule, visit the Wharton Center for Performing Arts website.

The Book of Mormon

Hamilton is the epic saga that follows the rise of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton as he fights for honor, love, and a legacy that would shape the course of a nation. Based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography and set to a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and Broadway, Hamilton has had a profound impact on culture, politics, and education. Hamilton features book, music, and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler, and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire. In addition to its 11 Tony Awards®, it has won Grammy, Olivier Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and an unprecedented special citation from the Kennedy Center Honors.

Hamilton

Discover the newest creation from the Malandain Ballet Biarritz, under the expert direction of Thierry Malandain: The Seasons. This prestigious company is renowned for its fusion of classical and contemporary dance, and The Seasons is certainly no exception from this legacy of greatness.

Ballet Biarritz: The Seasons

When it comes to Creole culture and Zydeco music, two-time Grammy award-winning Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience represent well, with the past, the present, and the future of Black roots music. This six piece, multigenerational, and multicultural group is highly skilled, formally trained, and are very experienced performers, and in every profession, experience still matters—a lot!

Ready, Set, Zydeco With Terrance Simien And The Zydeco Experience

Every song is fresh. Every scene is new. Every night is different. It’s all improvised and it’s all funny. The New York Times calls Broadway’s Next Hit Musical “Hilarious!” Time Out NY says, “At last! A musical of, for, and by the people.”

Broadway's Next Hit Musical

Inspired by 18th-century Korean philosopher Yeon-Ahm’s quest for a new perspective that would move forward a nation, Inching Toward Yeolha is a dark, absurd comedy about a secluded village in Central Asia desperate to explore a new world while clutching tightly to the past.

Inching Toward Yeolha

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable night of performing arts at the renowned Wharton Center for Performing Arts in East Lansing, USA. Scheduled for April 8, 2025, this event promises a blend of creativity, talent, and passion that will leave you inspired and entertained. The performance begins at 7:30 PM, offering a perfect evening escape. Discover the magic of live performance in one of the country's premier venues. For more details and ticket information, visit the official website at whartoncenter.com or check out their YouTube channel. Secure your tickets now at https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/Z7r9jZ1A7F7jY. See you at 750 E Shaw Ln, East Lansing, MI 48824!

Chicago the Musical (Touring)

Experience the electrifying magic of Broadway in Chicago at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts! From April 8th to 13th, 2025, immerse yourself in the dazzling world of "Chicago," the longest-running American musical in Broadway history. This sensational show brings to life the story of fame, fortune, and all that jazz in the Jazz Age, featuring notorious murderesses Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart, who vie for the spotlight amidst a media frenzy.

Performances will be held at the prestigious Cobb Great Hall, offering a range of showtimes to accommodate every schedule:
- April 8th (Tuesday) at 7:30 PM
- April 9th (Wednesday) at 7:30 PM
- April 10th (Thursday) at 7:30 PM
- April 11th (Friday) at 7:30 PM
- April 12th (Saturday) at 2:00 PM and again at 7:30 PM
- April 13th (Sunday) at 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM

Tickets are now on sale, with prices starting at $34 for subscribers. Ensure your spot in the audience by securing your tickets early for this must-see production that has captivated audiences worldwide with its showstopping songs, astonishing dance numbers, and a gripping tale that's as relevant as ever.

Accessibility services such as sign language interpretation, audio description, and open captioning are available upon request, ensuring everyone can enjoy this spectacular show. Recommended for ages 13 and up, "Chicago" promises an unforgettable night out with special effects that include haze, fog, camera flashes, e-cigarettes, mylar rain, and prop guns.

Don't miss your chance to witness the razzle-dazzle of "Chicago" at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts. It's more than just a musical; it's a Broadway phenomenon that's hotter than ever!

Nicknamed “the Gypsy-jazz Warbler” by The New York Times and acclaimed as a “millennial shaking up the jazz scene” by Vanity Fair Magazine, Tatiana Eva-Marie is a transatlantic bandleader, singer, and actress based in Brooklyn.

Club 750 Music: Tatiana Eva Marie

Amidst the chaos of war, Virginia has left home to become a Woman Airforce Service Pilot during World War II. As she faces a pivotal decision that will change her life forever, Decision Height tells an unforgettable story of bravery, sacrifice, and sisterhood, shining light on a courageous group of unrecognized American Heroes.

Decision Height

Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents brings the soul of New Orleans and the spirit of Mardi Gras to this amazing evening, celebrating the composers and inspired songs of the Crescent City, the historic epicenter of jazz. From Jelly Roll Morton and Louis Armstrong, to Ellis Marsalis and James Black, New Orleans has long been an apex of innovation and inspiration. Led by 2019 MSU Jazz Studies alum Luther S. Allison on piano, along with vocalists Quiana Lynell and Milton Suggs, New Orleans Songbook immerses audiences in the captivating and timeless spirit of this vibrant city.

Jazz At Lincoln Center: New Orleans Songbook

Acclaimed playwright of Fences, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom and so much more, August Wilson’s Two Trains Running is the seventh installment of his trailblazing 10-part Century Cycle, or Pittsburgh Cycle.

The Acting Company: August Wilson’s Two Trains Running

**Life of Pi at Wharton Center for Performing Arts**

**Dates:** March 11 - 16, 2025  
**Location:** Cobb Great Hall, Wharton Center for Performing Arts

Experience the Broadway and West End sensation, **Life of Pi**, a theatrical event that has captivated audiences worldwide, winning three Tony Awards and the Olivier Award for Best Play. This exhilarating evening of theater, as praised by The Wall Street Journal, brings to life the epic story of perseverance and hope that has sold more than 15 million copies as a novel and became a global phenomenon.

**Synopsis:**  
After a catastrophic shipwreck in the Pacific Ocean, a sixteen-year-old boy named Pi finds himself stranded on a lifeboat with four unlikely companions—a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a Royal Bengal tiger. This remarkable tale of survival and friendship unfolds in a visually stunning production that speaks to every generation, giving new life to Broadway.

**Performance Schedule:**  
- March 11 / Tuesday: 7:30 PM  
- March 12 / Wednesday: 7:30 PM  
- March 13 / Thursday: 7:30 PM  
- March 14 / Friday: 7:30 PM  
- March 15 / Saturday: 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM  
- March 16 / Sunday: 1:00 PM & 6:30 PM  

**Ticket Information:**  
- On Sale Now  
- Tickets from $36 with Subscription  
- View Seating Map for detailed seat selection  

**Accessibility:**  
- Sign Language Interpretation & Audio Description available upon request for the first Sunday matinee.  
- Open Captioning available for the first Thursday and Friday evening performances.

**Engagement Events:**  
- **After Chats:** Engage in conversations with artists inside the theatre immediately following the first Thursday Broadway performance. Please note, specific artist or company member’s participation is not guaranteed.

**Age and Content Warnings:**  
Recommended for ages 10 and up. Contains some mature content and violence. Special Effects include smoke, haze, flashing lights, strobe lights, and loud sounds throughout the performance.

**Plan Your Visit:**  
Ensure a seamless experience by downloading your mobile tickets in advance and reviewing helpful tips on Covid-19 safety, security, parking, and more. Explore the full range of accessibility services and engagement programs to enhance your visit.

Don't miss this unparalleled theatrical journey—**Life of Pi** at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts. Buy your tickets now and be part of a story that continues to inspire and awe audiences across the globe.

Life of Pi

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable night at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts on March 11, 2025! Located in the heart of East Lansing, the Wharton Center is renowned for hosting a variety of world-class performances. This upcoming event promises to be no exception, offering a unique blend of creativity and talent that will captivate audiences from start to finish. The show begins at 7:30 PM, so make sure you're ready for an evening filled with spectacular performances. For more information and to book your tickets, visit the official website or check out their YouTube channel. Don't miss out on this extraordinary experience!

Life of Pi (Touring)

There is no other band like the vintage-chic pop orchestra Pink Martini. With the combined power of a dozen musicians and fronted by the dynamic vocalist China Forbes, the vintage-chic ensemble joins humor with incredible artistry for a rollicking mix of vintage jazz, Parisian cafe music, cabaret, Brazilian samba, and old-fashioned pop The Washington Post called “rich, hugely approachable, utterly cosmopolitan yet utterly unpretentious ... it seems to speak to just about everybody.”

Pink Martini Featuring China Forbes

Witness spellbinding feats rooted in more than 2,000 years of history. These masters of agility and grace display their artful athleticism, pushing the limits of human ability, and defying gravity with their amazing acts of contortion and control. They perform daring maneuvers atop a precarious pagoda of chairs and display their technical prowess at such arts as trick-cycling, precision tumbling, juggling, somersaulting, and gymnastics. With a legacy of superb talent and rigorous training, The Peking Acrobats deliver all of the excitement and festive pageantry of a Chinese carnival!

The Peking Acrobats

Experience the groundbreaking artistry of Sphinx Virtuosi, an extension of Detroit’s own, globally-renowned Sphinx Organization, committed to amplifying Black and Latinx voices in classical music. The self-conducted chamber orchestra delivers a pioneering evening titled American Form/s, a musical tapestry spotlighting the many sounds of American classical music and composers of color. Vibrant, varied, and storied, take a journey through classically-framed infusions of soul, bluegrass, jazz, blues, and elements of rag.

Sphinx Virtuosi

Pushed to the boiling point, three female coworkers concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot they call their boss. In a hilarious turn of events, Violet, Judy and Doralee live out their wildest fantasy–giving their boss the boot! While Hart remains "otherwise engaged," the women give their workplace a dream makeover, taking control of the company that had always kept them down. 

9 to 5, The Musical

He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to East Lansing in MJ, the multiple Tony Award®-winning musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour. Created by Tony Award®-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singularmoves andsignature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. It’s thrilling sold out crowds on Broadway, in cities across North America, and in London’s West End...and now MJ is startin’ somethin’ in Michigan.

Experience the magic of Michael Jackson like never before at the MJ Wharton Center for Performing Arts! From February 11th to 16th, 2025, the Cobb Great Hall will be alive with the spirit of one of the greatest entertainers of all time through the multiple Tony Award-winning musical, MJ. This extraordinary show, centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour, showcases Michael Jackson's unique artistry, his signature moves, and his unparalleled sound.

Crafted by the creative minds of Tony Award-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ offers audiences a rare glimpse into the creative genius that propelled Michael Jackson to legendary status. Having thrilled sold-out crowds on Broadway, across North America, and in London’s West End, MJ is now set to captivate Michigan with its electrifying performances.

Tickets are on sale now, with prices starting at $49 for subscribers. Performances are scheduled from February 11th through February 16th, 2025, with evening shows at 7:30 PM from Tuesday to Friday, a matinee and evening performance on Saturday at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM respectively, and closing with two shows on Sunday at 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM. Each performance promises to be a thrilling experience, running approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including an intermission.

MJ is recommended for ages 8 and up, due to theatrical haze, fog, and a significant amount of strobing effects. Accessibility services such as Sign Language Interpretation, Audio Description, and Open Captioning are available upon request, ensuring everyone can enjoy this spectacular production.

Don't miss your chance to witness the musical phenomenon that is MJ at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts. Secure your tickets today and prepare to be mesmerized by the extraordinary legacy of Michael Jackson.

Brandon Woody started his musical journey at the age of seven. Since then, Woody has gone on to become an international artist, performing with his band Upendo, curating projects for major museums, film scoring, collaborating with international brands, and performing at major venues and institutions around the globe. Woody uses music as a tool for healing, genuine connection, and celebrating community.

Club 750 Music: Brandon Woody's Upendo

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 Caterpillar, a lobster quadrille, White Rabbits, a mad Queen of Hearts, and a variety of other surprises. Filled with visual splendor and stunning creative choreography, Alice reveals that nothing in MOMIX’s world is as it seems.

Momix: Alice

This self-proclaimed “classically trained garage band” of strings and vocals is a popular Grammy and Emmy-winning ensemble that resonates with ensembles globally. Their captivating sound merges classical, pop, Americana, and singer-songwriter styles in their Wharton Center debut.

Time For Three

**Shucked at Wharton Center for Performing Arts**

**Dates:** January 21 - 26, 2025  
**Location:** Cobb Great Hall, Wharton Center for Performing Arts

Get ready to indulge in a night of laughter and unforgettable melodies with the Tony Award-winning musical comedy, "Shucked." Described by The Wall Street Journal as "flat-out hilarious," this show promises an evening filled with humor that even economists can't resist. With a stellar creative team including Tony Award winner Robert Horn (Book), Grammy Award-winning songwriters Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally (Score), and directed by Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien, "Shucked" is a corn-fed, American musical that's sure to satisfy your appetite for great theater.

**Performance Schedule:**  
- January 21, Tuesday: 7:30 PM  
- January 22, Wednesday: 7:30 PM  
- January 23, Thursday: 7:30 PM  
- January 24, Friday: 7:30 PM  
- January 25, Saturday: 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM  
- January 26, Sunday: 1:00 PM & 6:30 PM  

**Ticket Information:**  
- On Sale Now  
- Tickets from $35 with Subscription  
- View Seating Map for detailed seat selection  

**Special Accessibility Performances:**  
- Sign Language Interpretation & Audio Description available for the first Sunday matinee upon request.  
- Open Captioning available on the first Thursday and Friday evening performances.

**Engagement Events:**  
- After Chats: Join conversations with artists inside the theatre immediately following the first Thursday Broadway performance. Please note, specific artist or company member’s participation cannot be guaranteed.

**Age and Content Warnings:**  
Recommended for ages 10 and up. The show contains adult themes, moments of adult language, and a harvest of corny innuendo.

For more information on tickets, accessibility services, and additional event details, visit the Wharton Center for Performing Arts official site or follow the event on social media.

Don't miss this "corn-bred" American musical that's harvesting laughs and heartwarming moments. Secure your tickets today and prepare for an evening of top-tier entertainment!

Shucked

Gabriel Kahane is a musician and storyteller, whose work has been called a “one man cultural Cuisinart” by The New York Times. Kahane has also been hailed as “one of the finest songwriters of the day” by The New Yorker. A frequent collaborator across a range of musical communities, Gabriel has worked with an array of artists including Paul Simon, Sufjan Stevens, Andrew Bird, Phoebe Bridgers, Caroline Shaw, and Chris Thile.

Club 750 Music: Gabriel Kahane

¡Viva el mariachi! Celebrate the holidays with A Mariachi Christmas featuring Mariachi Herencia de México. The two-time Latin GRAMMY-nominated band performs Mexican and American Christmas favorites, including the group’s reimagined holiday hits like "It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year", "It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas", "Winter Wonderland", and many more. Filled with music and holiday cheer, this colorful celebration of holiday traditions is perfect for the whole family.

Mariachi Herencia De México: A Mariachi Christmas

Called “an uproarious homage to Christmas albums of old” by Billboard and “the magical love child of Astrud Gilberto and Lucille Ball—an unexpectedly perfect combination” by BUST Magazine, Sugar and Booze was released to rave reviews. The LA Times says “Gasteyer puts her considerable vocal chops to work here to marvelous effect on this ebullient big-band jazz effort.”

Ana Gasteyer - Sugar & Booze

World Ballet Company presents Nutcracker LIVE on stage and features a multinational cast of 40 professional ballet dancers gathered to bring the most beloved holiday tradition to life.

World Ballet Company Presents The Nutcracker

With non-stop magical fun, Family Magic will entertain and engage audiences of all ages. Bill Blagg’s unique blend of comedy, audience participation, and mind-bending magic will keep you on the edge of your seat eagerly anticipating what’s coming next. Prepare to be amazed as ordinary objects come to life while others vanish in the blink of an eye, and you could even be chosen to float in mid-air.

Family Magic With Bill Blagg

Experience a night of uproarious improvisational comedy where the personalities of our newest students come together like a puzzle. Each performance offers a unique blend of classic and innovative improv games. Using audience suggestions, they’ll craft hilarious scenes while fostering new friendships and a culture of inclusivity.

MSU UnScripted

Cars fly, trees fight back, and monsters are on the loose in Harry’s second year at Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! This concert features the film Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™ in high-definition on a giant screen, while the Lansing Symphony Orchestra performs John Williams’s unforgettable score. Relive every magical moment as the music brings life to a story that has enchanted the world.

Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets™ In Concert

The captivating fusion of science and art, Of Equal Place: Isotopes in Motion, returns to Wharton Center. This dynamic multimedia experience transcends boundaries, intertwining the realms of nuclear physics and dance in partnership with the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) and Dance Exchange.

Of Equal Place: Isotopes In Motion

STOMP" class="css-u850" data-mark-multiple="true">STOMP is explosive, inventive, provocative, witty, and utterly unique—an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered armfuls of awards and rave reviews, and has appeared on numerous national television shows. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments—matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps—to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. Year after year, audiences worldwide keep coming back for more of this pulse-pounding electrifying show. As the Boston Globe says, “If you haven’t seen STOMP, GO! If you have seen it, take someone and share the pleasure!”

STOMP

Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts

A member of the game-changing, genre-blurring Los Angeles collective, West Coast Get Down, pianist Cameron Graves is taking the modern jazz scene by storm. Known as the Planetary Prince, Graves’ style and sound were described by La Weeklyas, “...the best elements of Weather Report, Keith Jarrett, McCoy Tyner, Austin Peralta and Flying Lotus.”

Club 750 Music: Cameron Graves

Before 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.

Mandy Patinkin In Concert: Being Alive

There are some orchestras that leave you awe-inspired after hearing, with an almost transcendent feeling long after the last notes are played. That is the London Philharmonic. Heard by millions on the soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings and widely celebrated as one of the world’s greatest orchestras since its founding, the London Philharmonic is truly exhilarating to hear live.

London Philharmonic Orchestra

Join the original ‘Brad Majors’-BARRY BOSTWICK-for a screening of the original, unedited movie with a live shadow cast and audience participation! Included in the experience is a memorabilia display with artifacts and an actual costume from the movie, a costume contest, and more!

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Experience the epic saga of love, redemption, and revolution with "Les Misérables" at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts. This acclaimed production, presented by Cameron Mackintosh, brings to life the timeless masterpiece by Boublil and Schönberg, capturing hearts with its powerful storytelling and unforgettable score. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of 19th century France, "Les Misérables" tells a compelling story of broken dreams, unrequited love, passion, sacrifice, and redemption—a testament to the enduring human spirit.

**Dates & Times:**
- October 8 - 13, 2024
- Performance times vary by date:
  - October 8 / Tuesday: 7:30 PM
  - October 9 / Wednesday: 7:30 PM
  - October 10 / Thursday: 7:30 PM
  - October 11 / Friday: 7:30 PM
  - October 12 / Saturday: 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM
  - October 13 / Sunday: 1:00 PM & 6:30 PM

**Location:**
Cobb Great Hall, Wharton Center for Performing Arts

**Ticket Information:**
- Tickets are on sale now, starting at $41 with subscription options available.
- For seating map and to purchase tickets, visit the Wharton Center's official website.

**Special Features:**
- The production boasts a magnificent score, including classics like "I Dreamed a Dream," "On My Own," "Bring Him Home," "One Day More," and many more.
- Accessibility services such as Sign Language Interpretation, Audio Description, and Open Captioning are available upon request for specific performances.

**Engagement Events:**
- After Chats: Engage in conversations with artists inside the theatre immediately following the first Thursday Broadway performance. (Note: Specific artist or company member’s participation is not guaranteed.)

**Age and Content Warnings:**
- Recommended for ages 12 and up.
- Special Effects include ground fog, live gunfire, haze, and strobe light.

Don't miss this "reborn dream of a production" (Daily Telegraph) that has taken the world by storm. Secure your tickets now for an unforgettable theatrical experience at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts.

Les Misérables

This lively courtroom drama is a fictionalized account of the 1925 Scopes Monkey Trial, where a Tennessee teacher was convicted for teaching Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution in a high school science class. As the trial unfolds, the courtroom becomes the stage for ideological conflict and debate about the fine line between church and state.

Inherit The Wind

Ualbany Performing Arts Center

When Grammy-winning singer Dee Dee Bridgewater and Grammy-winning pianist Bill Charlap take the stage, an incomparable experience awaits. With a vast repertoire spanning the greatest periods and genres in music, the duo craft masterful performances of songbook standards.

Dee Dee Bridgewater with Bill Charlap

P\A is a protest performance that draws inspiration from the theme of women's suffrage. A second-line tribute to a woman’s right to her body P\A will challenge the artists and audience to confront their preconceived notions of gender roles and expectations, inviting them to reflect on the historical struggles of women in their fight to be unapologetically authentic in a world that demands they be seen and not heard.

Presented by MSU College of Arts and Letters’ Department of Theatre and MSUFCU Institute for Arts & Creativity at Wharton Center.

In Pieces

Join us at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts for a heartwarming theatrical event that brings the beloved children's television series to life like never before! "Bluey’s Big Play" is set to captivate audiences on May 28 and 29, 2024, at the prestigious Cobb Great Hall. This brand-new theatrical adaptation features an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm and new music by the show's composer, Joff Bush. 

Dive into the world of Bluey, Bingo, and their family in a glorious celebration that The Guardian praises as "everything you love about the show." When Dad seeks a bit of Sunday afternoon time out, Bluey and Bingo have other plans. Witness their cleverness and fun-filled games as they attempt to get Dad off that bean bag. 

"Bluey’s Big Play" is not just a play; it's an experience. With brilliantly crafted puppets and a story that brings the Heelers to life, this is your chance to see Bluey as never before. Presented by BBC Studios and Andrew Kay in association with Windmill Theatre Co., this event promises to be a memorable experience for fans of all ages.

The performance runs for approximately 50 minutes without an intermission, making it a perfect family outing. Tickets are on sale now, starting at $27. Don't miss this unique opportunity to join the Heelers in their first live theatre show made just for you. Buy your tickets today for "Bluey’s Big Play" and be part of the magic at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts.

Bluey’s Big Play

Experience the global sensation that's captivating audiences worldwide! "SIX: The Musical" is set to take the stage at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts, located in the prestigious Cobb Great Hall. This electrifying performance will run from May 14 to May 19, 2024, offering a unique blend of history and pop culture as it transforms the tales of the six wives of Henry VIII into a powerful celebration of 21st-century girl power.

Winner of 23 awards in the 2021-

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts as we present "MasterWorks 5: Rachmaninoff Symphony No. 3" featuring the Lansing Symphony Orchestra. This season finale, set to take place on May 10, 2024, at the prestigious Cobb Great Hall, promises to be a night of exquisite music and outstanding performances.

The concert will open with a piece by the LSO Composer-In-Residence, followed by a captivating Piano Concerto showcasing the talents of the Gilmore Young Artist. The highlight of the evening will be Sergei Rachmaninoff's Symphony No. 3 in A minor, a masterpiece that combines the sonorous and romantic elements of Rachmaninoff's style with a unique expressive palette. This symphony, known for its emotional depth and diverse orchestral colors, is presented in a compact three-movement format, echoing the success of Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerti.

Under the baton of Director Timothy Muffitt, and featuring performances by the Gilmore Young Artist Winner on piano, the evening's program also includes W.A. Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 21 in C major, K. 467, alongside the much-anticipated Rachmaninoff Symphony No. 3 in A minor, Op. 44.

Event Details:
- Date: May 10, 2024
- Time: 7:30 PM
- Location: Cobb Great Hall, Wharton Center for Performing Arts
- Ticket Prices: Starting at $30, with special rates for students and youth from $15
- Availability: Tickets on sale now

Don't miss this spectacular close to our 94th season, a celebration of musical innovation and the enduring legacy of Sergei Rachmaninoff. Buy your tickets today and experience the power and beauty of live orchestral music!

MasterWorks 5: Rachmaninoff Symphony No. 3

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts as we celebrate the iconic music of Star Wars with "The Music of Star Wars: May the Fourth Be With You" event. This special performance, featuring the Lansing Symphony Orchestra, will take place on May 4, 2024, at the prestigious Cobb Great Hall.

Date and Time:
- May 4, 2024
- Event starts at 7:30 PM

Location:
- Cobb Great Hall, Wharton Center for Performing Arts

About the Event:
"May the Force be with you" as the Lansing Symphony Orchestra takes you on an epic journey through the musical galaxy of Star Wars. Experience the thrilling music that has become synonymous with the Star Wars saga, composed by the legendary John Williams and Michael Giacchino. This concert will feature selections from various Star Wars films, bringing to life the themes that represent beloved characters and capture the excitement of their adventures.

Ticket Information:
- Tickets are on sale now, starting from $30.

Don't miss this opportunity to relive your favorite movie moments through the powerful and moving scores that have defined Star Wars. Directed by Timothy Muffitt, this performance promises to be a memorable night for fans of all ages.

For more information and to purchase your tickets, visit the Wharton Center for Performing Arts website. May the Fourth be with you!

The Music of Star Wars: May the Fourth Be With You

Join us at the prestigious Cobb Great Hall on May 2, 2024, for an unforgettable evening with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra as they present "Mozart and the Seasons." Under the baton of the newly appointed Music Director Jader Bignamini, the orchestra will embark on a musical journey inspired by Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. The concert will feature the tango-infused "Four Seasons of Buenos Aires" by Astor Piazzolla, arranged by Desyatnikov, with a stellar performance by the DSO's newly appointed Concertmaster Robyn Bollinger. Additionally, the evening will include Michael Abels' innovative work, which blends Vivaldi's classic with modern elements, and culminate in Mozart’s brilliant and beloved "Symphony No. 41 in C Major, Jupiter," a masterpiece hailed as one of the top ten symphonies of all time.

The concert starts at 7:30 PM, promising an approximate run time of 90 minutes, including an intermission. This event is recommended for ages 5 and up, ensuring a family-friendly experience. Enhance your evening with an "Insight Preview" 45 minutes before the performance, where topic experts will provide unique insights into the night's repertoire.

Tickets are on sale now, starting at $25, with special pricing available for MSU students at $19 with APID. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the official Wharton Center website.

Detroit Symphony Orchestra

For this engaging performance, Grammy-nominated PUBLIQuartet thoughtfully ponders “What is American?” through a musical kaleidoscope of composers and diverse genres that make up America’s rich musical history. The program includes works by Vijay Iyer and Rhiannon Giddens; the music of Ornette Coleman, Fats Waller, Tina Turner, Betty Davis, Alice Coltrane, and Ida Cox; and a reimagination of Dvořák’s American Quartet, in which the composer’s original melodies meet PUBLIQuartet’s blues, jazz, and rock-inflected stylings.

Publiquartet: What Is American

Sing, dance, and learn along with 123 Andrés: the Latin Grammy-winning husband and wife duo, Andrés and Christina. Their catchy bilingual songs and lively performance will entertain the entire family.

123 Andrés

The MSU Symphony Orchestra shares the stage with Choral Union, State Singers, and University Chorale to perform a panoramic program depicting different aspects of the sea. Ralph Vaughan Williams used text from poems by Walt Whitman including “The Waves” and “On the Beach at Night, Alone” for his magnificent A Sea Symphony (Symphony No. 1). The final ripple of the program presents beauty and wonder with Benjamin Britten’s Four Sea Interludes. Octavio Más-Arocas and Sally Yu, conductors. Generously sponsored by Interim President Teresa K. Woodruff, Ph.D., and Thomas V. O’Halloran, Ph.D.

Symphony Orchestra And Msu Choirs: Songs Of The Sea

Featuring guest composer John Mackey and clarinetist Julian Bliss. The program includes Boom Goes the Dynamite by Paul Dooley, Divine Mischief: Concerto for Clarinet by John Mackey, and Symphony No. 4 by David Maslanka. Kevin L. Sedatole, conductor.

Wind Symphony

The program includes Symphonic Dances, Mvt. I by Yosuke Fukuda, Shut Out by MSU student Tyler Mazone, Ye Banks and Braes ‘O’ Bonnie Doon by Percy Grainger, American Variations by Jerry Bilik, and In Living Color by Katahj Copley. Arris Golden, conductor.

Concert Band And Campus Band

Best known for her stunning vocal approach in blues and jazz, Grammy-winning singer Catherine Russell has toured the world, performing and recording with the likes of David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, Paul Simon, and Wynton Marsalis. Her repertoire features a selection of gems from the 1920s through the present, with vital interpretations bursting with soul and humor. Featuring an eclectic song selection, sparkling acoustic swing, and incredible vocals, Catherine Russell has joined the ranks of the greatest interpreters and performers of American Popular Songs.

Catherine Russell

Presenting a musical journey through the magical and wonderous works of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s The Magic Flute Overture and Ottorino Respighi’s Belkis, Regina dé Saba. The concert program will also include the winning work from the annual Jere Hutcheson Composition Competition.

Concert Orchestra: Fairytales And Legends

The winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Spring Awakening is a fusion of morality, sexuality and rock and roll by Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater. Join this group of late nineteenth century German students as they navigate self-discovery and coming of age anxiety in an electrifying celebration of youth and rebellion.

Spring Awakening

Experience the electrifying enchantment of "Moulin Rouge The Musical" at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts, set to dazzle audiences from April 2 to April 14, 2024, at the prestigious Cobb Great Hall. This theatrical masterpiece, a winner of 10 Tony Awards including Best Musical, brings Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film to life on stage in a new musical mash-up extravaganza. Directed by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers, with a book by Tony Award winner John Logan, music supervision, orchestrations, and arrangements by Tony Award winner Justin Levine, and choreography by Tony Award winner Sonya Tayeh, "Moulin Rouge The Musical" is a celebration of Truth, Beauty, Freedom, and above all, Love.

Set in a world of splendor and romance, where Bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows, the musical invites you to enter a realm of eye-popping excess, glitz, grandeur, and glory. It's more than a musical; it's a state of mind that promises to leave you mesmerized by its spectacular storytelling and breathtaking performances.

Tickets are on sale now, with prices starting from $45. Special pricing is available for MSU students at $29 with APID. The performance is recommended for ages 12 and up, featuring an atmosphere filled with haze and fog, strobe lights, confetti cannons, and a prop gun, ensuring a truly immersive experience. The run time is approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission.

Accessibility services such as Sign Language Interpretation & Audio Description and Open Captioning are available, ensuring everyone can enjoy this spectacular show. Engage further with the production by joining the after chats, conversations with artists inside the theatre immediately following the first Thursday Broadway performance.

Don't miss your chance to witness the splendor of "Moulin Rouge The Musical" at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts. Secure your tickets now and prepare to be transported to a world where love conquers all.

Moulin Rouge The Musical

In the 20 years since the global musical sensation’s debut, Celtic Woman has emerged as both a formidable musical presence and a genuine cultural phenomenon. The group's albums and DVD releases have been consistent multi-platinum best-sellers and its concert tours continue to touch the hearts of a devoted audience that spans the globe. Both an accomplished recording ensemble and a world-class performing collective, Celtic Woman introduces some of Ireland's most talented singers and musicians to the world stage.

Celtic Woman

1930s New York City in the midst of the depression, struggling cab drivers are deciding whether to unionize. The union leader, Lefty, may hold the answer but he is nowhere to be found as we witness the heart-wrenching tales of these workers. Originally produced on Broadway under the auspices of the Group Theatre, which championed realistic acting and contained some of the most influential acting teachers of the last century.

Waiting For Lefty

Ludwig van Beethoven's influence was far-reaching and ushered in a movement of music that was picked up and further developed by composers like Wagner and Strauss. Betthoven's one and only Violin Concerto has become an audience and performer favorite, filled with delicate melodies and stunning poignance. This concert opens with a premiere by Los Angeles-based composer Sarah Gibson, which the League of American Orchestras commissioned with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. The concert scampersto an exciting finish with Richard Strauss's Till Eulenspiegel's Merry Pranks, a lively, comic work about the conflict between stern forces of repression and the irrepressible spirit of freedom.

Masterworks 4: Beethoven Violin Concerto

Join us at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts for an unforgettable evening with "Small Island Big Song" on March 21, 2024, at the Cobb Great Hall. This unique event starts at 7:30 PM and promises to be a transcendent musical journey that combines song, spoken word, and cinematic visuals. Tickets are on sale now, starting from $25, with special pricing for MSU students at $19 with APID.

"Small Island Big Song" is an inspiring multimedia event where First Nation artists from across the Pacific and Indian Oceans unite to blend traditions and create music celebrating our interconnectedness. Featuring beautiful cinematography and incredible music, this performance is described by Billboard Asia, Japan as "one coherent, jaw-dropping piece." The artists, renowned musicians from 16 island nations, share a message of unity, showcasing that the ocean does not divide their homes—it connects them. Expect irresistible oceanic grooves and soulful island ballads that sing for the seas.

This event is recommended for ages 5 and up, ensuring it's a family-friendly experience. Additionally, engage with related events leading up to the performance, including a Pacific Island food menu at The Edge At Akers on March 18, 2024, and a climate discussion panel on March 19, 2024, featuring notable experts and activists. On the day of the performance, attendees can enjoy an Insight Preview at 6:45pm for unique insights into the performance, and a Student Organization Fair from 6:30-7:30pm to learn more about MSU's impact on campus.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Wharton Center's official site or contact Ben English at ben.english@whartoncenter.com. Don't miss this breathtakingly beautiful sound made by those who sing for the seas.

Small Island Big Song

Join us for TEDxMSU's 10th Annual Conference: APEX, an extraordinary event that transcends the conventional boundaries of dialogue and discovery. This year, we invite you to "Reach Higher, Think Deeper," as we unveil a mosaic of groundbreaking ideas and performances at Michigan State University. This Year we will be hosting 8 speakers from diverse disciplines share their visions through TED-like talks. As attendees, you'll be part of an inspiring community session that stimulates learning and curiosity. Each talk is designed to spark deep conversations and connections, fostering an environment where every idea has the potential to ignite change. So, come with an open mind and leave with a heart full of inspiration. Secure your ticket to be a part of an unforgettable pursuit of knowledge and empowerment.

APEX

Get ready to rock with the one and only John Mellencamp, Live and in Person, at Wharton Center. Mellencamp has been a force in the music industry for decades, and his live performances are nothing short of electric. With a string of hits that have become anthems, this is a show you won't want to miss.

John Mellencamp

A celebratory concert program honors legendary MSU Band Director (1927–1967) Leonard Falcone. The program includes Symphonic Concert March (arr. Nicholas Falcone) by Giouse Bonelli, Prelude to Act I from La Traviata and La Forza del Destino (arr. Leonard Falcone) by Giuseppe Verdi, Torino (arr. Leonard Falcone) by Emilio Rivela, Alba Sentimentale (arr. Leonard Falcone) by Roberto Fasoli, and Scossa Elettrica by Giacomo Puccini. Kevin L. Sedatole and MSU Alumni guests, conductors. Generously sponsored by Merritt Lutz.

Honoring Leonard Falcone’s 125th Birthday

Author, teacher, arts enthusiast, and LGBTQ+ advocate Chasten Buttigieg will discuss his background in theatre and the impact that allyship and representation can have on young lives.

Can We Talk? With Chasten Buttigieg

Superstar violinist Ray Chen has it all: charisma for days, a deep musical sense, and incredible virtuosity. His recital with pianist Julio Elizalde puts his talents on full display with a program including the grandest in the violin repertory, Beethoven’s Violin Sonata No. 7 (“Eroica”), Bach’s cheerful, high-spirited Partita No. 3 for solo violin, Giuseppe Tartini’s fiendishly demanding Devil’s Trill Sonata, Dvořák’s romantic Slavonic Dance No. 2, a special arrangement of Chick Corea’s Spain, and more.

Ray Chen

The annual Honors Concert will feature the winners of the annual competition performing as soloists with the Symphony Orchestra. In addition to the solo works determined after the competition, the program will include Leonard Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from West Side Story, a tale of love and fierce rivalries between two teenage street gangs in New York City. Octavio Más-Arocas, conductor.

Symphony Orchestra: Honors Concert And West Side Story

The program includes Selections from the Danserye (arr. Patrick Dunnigan) by Tielman Susato, Spanish Dances (Book 1) by Luis Serrano Alarcón, Red Cape Tango by Michael Daugherty, and Wedding Dance (transcr. Herbert N. Johnston) by Jacques Press. David Thornton, conductor.

Symphony Band

Join us at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts for an electrifying performance by Step Afrika on March 9, 2024, at the prestigious Cobb Great Hall. This unique event starts at 7:30 PM and promises an unforgettable night showcasing the vibrant and dynamic art form of stepping.

Step Afrika, renowned for its high-energy performances, blends percussive dance styles rooted in African American fraternities and sororities, traditional dances from West and Southern Africa, and contemporary dance and art forms into a compelling artistic experience. The ensemble's performance will not only highlight the traditional aspects of stepping but also explore its evolution through a suite of traditional South African dances, offering a rich, cultural tapestry that is both visually and musically exciting.

Tickets are on sale now, starting at $25, with special pricing available for MSU students at $19 with APID. This performance is recommended for ages 5 and up, making it a perfect cultural outing for the whole family. 

Don't miss the chance to engage more deeply with the art and artists through After Chats, a post-performance conversation inside the theatre. Please note that while we strive to provide the most enriching experience, the participation of any specific artist or company member cannot be guaranteed.

For more information, seating maps, and to purchase your tickets, visit the Wharton Center's official site. Prepare to have your heart pounding with the rhythm and soul of Step Afrika's performance!

Step Afrika!

Adapted from the award-winning children’s book by Joseph Belisle, this true story features the character of Faith, a nine-year-old girl who is full of dread and “what ifs” when her cat, Wilhelmina, goes missing. Faith learns about the futility of worry and develops coping skills through music, movement, and the assistance of some friendly puppets. Highlighting the power of diversity and ability, What If Wilhelmina is an innovative, multi-sensory, and interactive performance for audiences that are neurodiverse and neurotypical.

What If Wilhelmina

Miami’s sassiest seniors have returned for one more hurrah. It’s 2023, and we find Sophia out on bail, after being busted by the DEA for running a drug ring for retirees. Blanche and Rose have founded CreakN, a thriving sex app for seniors. And Dorothy is trying to hold it all together, with help from a new (much) younger sex-crazed lover. Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue allows audiences to relive the heartfelt hilarity of the four ladies who never stopped being best friends.

Golden Girls

Inspired by Aesop’s famous fable, this is a beautiful wintery tale about a boy who learns that “nobody believes a liar, even when they’re telling the truth.” From Tutti Frutti Productions and York Theatre Royal comes a gifted ensemble of actors and musicians, performing and singing live as they embody all the delightful characters, including hilarious sheep—and perhaps a wolf or two. Set in a village of knitters with fingers flicking and needles clicking, every new jumper tells a tale here! Ultimately, Silas finds a place for himself (and his imagination) in his warm, woolly community.

The Boy Who Cried Wolf

Featuring the winner of the 2nd Annual Concert Orchestra Concerto Competition, this concert also includes music from West Side Story by Leonard Bernstein and Astor Piazzolla’s sumptuous orchestral work, Tangazo. Additional works include Into Light by Marilyn Shrude and Bernstein’s Mambo. Katherine Kilburn and Sally Yu, conductors.

Concert Orchestra: Latin Dances And Love Stories

They were a band that transcended musical tastes because their music transcended genres. With Classical Mystery Tour, you can witness the timelessness of The Beatles' music live with four supremely talented musicians accompanied by a full orchestra. The costumes, the vocals, and the musicianship--it's all there. One night only. Don't miss out.

The Music Of The Beatles Featuring Classical Mystery Tour

Native & African American vocalist, songwriter, composer, and educator Martha Redbone is known for her unique gumbo of folk, blues, and gospel. Her sound is inspired by her childhood in Harlan County, Kentucky, infused with the eclectic grit of pre-gentrified Brooklyn. Inheriting the powerful vocal range of her gospel-singing African American father and the resilient spirit of her mother’s Southeastern Cherokee/Choctaw culture, Redbone broadens the boundaries of American Roots music. With songs and storytelling that share her life experience as a Native and Black woman, and a mother in the new millennium, Redbone gives voice to issues of social justice, bridging traditions from past to present, connecting cultures, and celebrating the human spirit.

Martha Redbone Roots Project

Jim Brickman will wow the crowd with his uplifting HITS LIVE! IN CONCERT. The Grammy Nominated Songwriter gets up close and personal in this intimate setting with his hit songs “Love of My Life”, “Angel Eyes”, “The Gift “ & “Valentine”. Brickman warms the heart, as his sweet sounds and stories bring family and friends together.

Jim Brickman

The program includes Resound by Nicole Piunno, Be Thou My Vision by Travis J. Cross, Sarabande and Polka (arr. John P. Paynter) by Malcolm Arnold, From the Delta by William Grant Still, and Fairest of the Fair by John Philip Sousa. Arris Golden, conductor.

A group of friends meet for an unorthodox college reunion at the lake house where they spent a weekend retreat back in 2008. Summoned by the one member of the group they left behind, they go to the depths of the earth to find Stevie and bring them home. But what is home? And how far can you travel in time without walking out again? Stevie and the Real World is a comedic play with puppets that remembers when "the real world" was just a show on MTV.

Wharton Center for Performing Arts

Dec 5, 2025

Making Spirits Bright with Ann Hampton Callaway

9 - 14 Dec, 2025

The Wiz

Dec 16, 2025

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas

17 - 18 Dec, 2025

World Ballet Company: The Nutcracker

Jan 7, 2026

Kristin Key

Nov 30, 2025

Vienna Boys Choir

Nov 14, 2025

Les Arts Florissants with Théotime Langlois de Swarte

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Wharton Center for Performing Arts