FORBES ORGAN SERIES: Alcee Chriss
Dr. Alcee Chriss III, featured in the PBS documentary Pipe Dreams and winner of prestigious organ competitions, is regarded as one of today’s leading young organists. Currently the University Organist and Artist-in-Residence at Wesleyan University, he also serves on the editorial board of Vox Humana magazine.
Come From Away
On 9/11, the world stopped. On 9/12, their stories moved us all. This stirring and inspiring musical takes you into the heart of the remarkable true story of the small town in Newfoundland that opened their homes to 7,000 stranded travelers on 9/11. During that fateful week, cultures clashed and nerves ran high—but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night and gratitude grew into enduring friendships. Celebrate the best of humankind and the best in all of us at COME FROM AWAY.
Small Island Big Song
Small Island Big Song unites seafaring cultures of the Pacific and Indian Oceans through a contemporary musical statement addressing the climate crisis. Showcasing indigenous artists maintaining their cultural voice, this project blends diverse styles like roots-reggae, RnB, folk, and spoken word, connecting cultures from Madagascar to Easter Island. Experience a jaw-dropping musical dialogue that transcends boundaries.
FORBES ORGAN SERIES: Anna Lapwood
Anna Lapwood, a trailblazing organist and social media sensation, captivates audiences with her fresh approach to classical music. As Director of Music at Pembroke College, Cambridge, and deemed “the TikTok organist”, she bridges genres and generations by performing movie compositions, Bach, and jazz-infused pieces.
Bruce Hornsby and yMusic present BrhyM
Eclectic singer-songwriter and pianist Bruce Hornsby rose to fame with his Grammy-winning debut album The Way It Is and its title track, the most played song on U.S. radio in 1987. Since then, he has released more than 20 albums. Hornsby is touring with the New York-based classical-pop ensemble yMusic, a sextet known for its original compositions as well as collaborations with Ben Folds, John Legend, Paul Simon, St. Vincent and other artists.
MEAN GIRLS
MEAN GIRLS is a ferociously funny new musical from an award-winning creative team. Based on the book by Tina Fey, MEAN GIRLS tells the story of a naïve newbie who falls prey to a trio of lionized frenemies. Entertainment Weekly calls it “A MARVEL: dazzling and hilarious!” and USA Today says, “We’ll let you in on a little secret, because we’re such good friends: GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!”
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
No group is more closely identified with African song – some might say with world music itself – than this vibrant South African nine-member vocal ensemble. Since 1987, when they were introduced to mainstream America with the release of Paul Simon’s groundbreaking Graceland album, these African troubadours have traveled the world with the uplifting, polyrhythmic harmonies of their homeland.
The Concert Truck
Featured on Voice of America, Minnesota Public Radio, and in the Washington Post, The Concert Truck revolutionizes the live music experience by turning a 16-foot box truck into a mobile concert hall, giving it the ability to bring live classical music anywhere in SLO county. With 10 free community concerts throughout a weeklong engagement, this is an incredible experience providing access to the arts for all!
The Queen’s Cartoonists
The Queen’s Cartoonists bring cartoons to life with perfectly synchronized music from over 100 years of animation. Experience virtuosic musicianship, multi-instrumental mayhem, and comedy as they perform original soundtracks and fresh compositions alongside projections of classic and modern animated films. Delight in the fusion of jazz, classical music, and animation, featuring composers like Raymond Scott, Carl Stalling, and Duke Ellington. Audiences of all ages will delight in this immersive and fun concert!
STOMP
Witness STOMP, an explosive, inventive, and utterly unique percussion sensation for all ages. This award-winning eight-member troupe captivates audiences with unconventional instruments, from matchboxes to garbage cans, creating magnificent rhythms. With rave reviews and repeat performances worldwide, STOMP delivers a pulse-pounding, electrifying experience.
LIGHTWIRE THEATER DINO-LIGHT
Join Lightwire Theater, semi-finalists on NBC’s America’s Got Talent and winners of Tru TV’s Fake Off, for their electrifying production, Dino-Light. Recipient of the prestigious Jim Henson Foundation Grant, this glow-in- the-dark adventure weaves a heartwarming story with a cutting-edge blend of puppetry, technology, and dance, dazzling audiences worldwide.
Taj Mahal Quintet & Sona Jobarteh
With a 50+ year career, three Grammy wins, 14 nominations, Blues Hall of Fame membership, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Americana Music Association, Taj Mahal’s impact on the blues is undeniable. This performance will include widely acclaimed Gambian musician Sona Jobarteh, one of the first female Kora virtuosos, who is known for her skill as an instrumentalist, her distinctive voice, infectious melodies, and her grace onstage.
CHICAGO
After 26 years, CHICAGO is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz, with one show-stopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen. No wonder CHICAGO has been honored with 6 Tony Awards, 2 Olivier Awards, a Grammy, and thousands of standing ovations. Come see why the name on everyone’s lips is still...CHICAGO.
Shaolin Jazz: CAN I KICK IT?
Experience the entertaining fusion of hip-hop, jazz, and martial arts with Shaolin Jazz’s CAN I KICK IT? Witness cult classic and contemporary martial arts/action films come to life as they’re scored scene-by-scene with a vibrant blend of Hip Hop, Soul, and Funk by live DJs – uncovering the unique intersections of these dynamic cultures.
JIG – A Trinity Irish Dance Company Production
JIG, a Trinity Irish Dance Company (TIDC) production, is a fresh take on TIDC’s internationally-renowned, alternative approach to a traditional form. In its premiere season, JIG will redefine what is possible for Irish music and dance. Centered by a live band, JIG will immerse audiences in an authentic experience that celebrates the power of vibrations, rhythm and movement.
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood LIVE: King For A Day!
The grr-ific musical for little tigers and grown-ups alike is back! The hugely popular Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood LIVE!, based on the #1 PBS KIDS TV series, has delighted live audiences on stages across the country. Daniel and all of his friends invite you for a brand-new adventure in the Neighborhood of Make-Believe where Daniel learns just what it takes to be King. It’s an event filled with tigertastic fun, teaching the valuable lessons of kindness, helping others, and being a friend.
Marquis Hill
Marquis Hill, a trailblazing trumpeter, breaks barriers between genres, embracing jazz, hip-hop, R&B, Chicago house, and neo-soul. Experience his mastery as he seamlessly blends jazz interplay, hip-hop-infused rhythms, and socially conscious spoken-word as he re-invents jazz standards in his electrifying performance.
Herb Alpert and Lani Hall
Join Herb Alpert and Lani Hall for an unforgettable evening of eclectic jazz, world, and American pop music. This husband-and-wife duo has been captivating audiences since 2006, boasting Alpert’s five #1 hits, 28 Billboard-charted albums, and eight Grammys, alongside Hall’s Grammy-winning vocals and history as the original lead singer for Sergio Mendes’ Brasil ‘66.
Turtle Island Quartet - Island Prayers
The Grammy-winning Turtle Island Quartet returns to SLO with a captivating new program. This evening will showcase works commissioned by and created for TIQ from renowned composers Terence Blanchard, Rhiannon Giddens, Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate, and founder David Balakrishnan. In addition to the quartet’s unique combination of jazz, American roots and new music, these works will also include indigenous and folkloric styles that the quartet will be approaching for the first time.
Jake Shimabukuro: Christmas in Hawai’i
Ukulele maestro Jake Shimabukuro invites you to 'Christmas in Hawai’i' - a heartwarming holiday extravaganza! With bassist Jackson Waldhoff and singer-songwriter Justin Kawika Young, Jake transforms timeless classics into Hawaiian delights. Experience an enchanting, joyful evening sure to become a highlight of your holiday season!
Jane Lynch “A Swingin’ Little Christmas”
What do you get when you mix one part cabaret, one part comedy, and one heaping helping of Christmas kitsch? A Swingin’ Little Christmas! It’s a fun fresh twist on the Christmas specials of the ‘50s and ‘60s when harmonies were tight and swing was the thing. Starring Emmy and Golden Globe winner Jane Lynch (Glee, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel), along with Kate Flannery (The Office, Dancing with the Stars), Tim Davis (Glee’s vocal arranger), and The Tony Guerrero Quintet. These top-notch talents will jingle your bells and get you in the holiday spirit faster than a glass of eggnog.
NOCHEBUENA: A Christmas Spectacular
Experience the vibrant spirit of Mexico’s Christmas season with an all-star cast featuring Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles and Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar. Immerse yourself in Nochebuena traditions, where captivating music, dance, and festive customs create an unforgettable cultural celebration.
Matthew Whitaker
Meet Matthew Whitaker, a prodigious talent who began his musical journey at age 3. As the youngest artist endorsed by Hammond and a Yamaha Artist, he’s made a remarkable impact on the jazz scene. With training from Juilliard, Harlem School of the Arts, and Manhattan School of Music, you must witness this extraordinary pianist in action!
Flor De Toloache
Returning to SLO after their incredible 2019 show, this Latin Grammy-winning all-female ensemble is revolutionizing traditional Latin American music with their edgy, versatile flair. Transcending culture and gender, they’ve enchanted global audiences with three albums and a fresh rock-inspired compilation. Experience their boundary-breaking fusion and be captivated by their unique sound.
An Evening with David Sedaris
Loaded with sardonic wit and incisive social critiques, David Sedaris returns to SLO! Known as one of America’s pre-eminent humor writers, the great skill with which he slices through cultural euphemisms and political correctness proves that Sedaris is a master of satire and one of the most observant writers addressing the human condition today.
FORBES ORGAN SERIES: Phantom Of The Organ with Raul Prieto Ramirez
Experience the electrifying talent of Raúl Prieto Ramírez, an iconoclastic Spanish organist renowned for his sizzling, transcendent performances. Join him for a haunting Halloween concert featuring Phantom of the Opera arias alongside opera singers, Bernardo Bermudez and Anna Belaya, and be captivated by the organ’s mesmerizing, spooky side.
Lupita Infante
Lupita Infante, a Mexican American singer-songwriter and the granddaughter of the iconic Pedro Infante — Mexico’s most be-loved singer and actor from the golden age of Mexican cinema — is part of an emerging generation of contemporary artists working to remake ranchera traditions for Millennial and Gen Z fans.
BODYTRAFFIC
Captivating audiences by their Los Angeles grown, contagious and lyrical vivacity BODYTRAFFIC is hailed as one of the most musical and talked about contemporary dance companies nationwide.
Dreamers’ Circus
Discover the innovative brilliance of Dreamers’ Circus, a Nordic world music sensation. This Danish trio skillfully reinvents traditional folk music, captivating audiences with their unique blend of violin, piano, and Nordic cittern. Boasting five Danish Music Awards and international acclaim, let their creativity and talent enchant you.
CANCELED - Bobby McFerrin
Known for his iconic hits like “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”, 10-time Grammy Award-winner Bobby McFerrin comes to SLO for an extraordinary event of boundless creativity and communal connection. Showcasing his innovative a cappella performances and beatbox techniques, McFerrin will perform music from Circlesongs, in a collective improvisation with the audience.
Taimane
Taimane, a hapa Sāmoan artist (part indigenous Sāmoan and part Caucasian) born and raised in Hawai‘i, has established herself as an artist-to-watch, wowing audiences and listeners around the world while raking in one accolade after another and garnering a Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award as Favorite Entertainer of the Year in 2019. From sold-out shows across the U.S. to Europe, Taimane’s live performances have become must-see events.