Ten highly-skilled acrobats, a bare stage and a stirring journey of what it means to be human. Australia’s bold, contemporary circus troupe, Circa returns to the Annenberg Center with the U.S. premiere of Humans, a tour de force about the power in physical and emotional strength. The “stunning athleticism and heart-stopping acrobatics in this innovative circus work” (ArtsHub) explores the expressive possibilities of the human body at its extremes.

Ten highly-skilled acrobats, a bare stage and a stirring journey of what it means to be human. Australia’s bold, contemporary circus troupe, Circa returns to the Annenberg Center with the U.S. premiere of Humans, a tour de force about the power in physical and emotional strength. The “stunning athleticism and heart-stopping acrobatics in this innovative circus work” (ArtsHub) explores the expressive possibilities of the human body at its extremes.

Grammy® Award-nominated composer/pianist Vijay Iyer makes his Annenberg Center debut in a rare solo performance. A Harvard University professor, MacArthur Fellow and “one of the most interesting and vital young pianists in jazz today” (Pitchfork), Iyer’s musical output is adventuresome, masterful and emotionally resonant. Don’t miss this intimate performance by “one of his generation’s brightest jazz luminaries” (Time Out New York).

Private Tommo Peaceful is going to die tomorrow. A young WWI soldier, Tommo faces the firing squad at dawn and marks the hours by recalling memories from his short but wonderful life, long before the dreadful horrors of war. By the celebrated author of the Broadway hit War Horse, this moving, funny and heart-breaking one-man play tours the US for the first time, serving as a timely reminder, now 100 years later, of the heroic sacrifices of WWI veterans. Given impressive 5-star reviews by numerous British newspapers, don’t miss this powerful Philadelphia premiere.

Private Tommo Peaceful is going to die tomorrow. A young WWI soldier, Tommo faces the firing squad at dawn and marks the hours by recalling memories from his short but wonderful life, long before the dreadful horrors of war. By the celebrated author of the Broadway hit War Horse, this moving, funny and heart-breaking one-man play tours the US for the first time, serving as a timely reminder, now 100 years later, of the heroic sacrifices of WWI veterans. Given impressive 5-star reviews by numerous British newspapers, don’t miss this powerful Philadelphia premiere.

Private Tommo Peaceful is going to die tomorrow. A young WWI soldier, Tommo faces the firing squad at dawn and marks the hours by recalling memories from his short but wonderful life, long before the dreadful horrors of war. By the celebrated author of the Broadway hit War Horse, this moving, funny and heart-breaking one-man play tours the US for the first time, serving as a timely reminder, now 100 years later, of the heroic sacrifices of WWI veterans. Given impressive 5-star reviews by numerous British newspapers, don’t miss this powerful Philadelphia premiere.

Private Tommo Peaceful is going to die tomorrow. A young WWI soldier, Tommo faces the firing squad at dawn and marks the hours by recalling memories from his short but wonderful life, long before the dreadful horrors of war. By the celebrated author of the Broadway hit War Horse, this moving, funny and heart-breaking one-man play tours the US for the first time, serving as a timely reminder, now 100 years later, of the heroic sacrifices of WWI veterans. Given impressive 5-star reviews by numerous British newspapers, don’t miss this powerful Philadelphia premiere.

Nearly 50 years ago, two towering public figures, African-American author James Baldwin and white anthropologist Margaret Mead, sat together and recorded an epic and intimate seven-and-a-half-hour conversation about race in America. Now, choreographer Donald Byrd and playwright Anna Deavere Smith re-imagine that conversation in the present in A Rap on Race. This new dance-theater work combines text with movement and music to communicate the complexities of talking about race, at a time when that conversation is as necessary as ever.

Nearly 50 years ago, two towering public figures, African-American author James Baldwin and white anthropologist Margaret Mead, sat together and recorded an epic and intimate seven-and-a-half-hour conversation about race in America. Now, choreographer Donald Byrd and playwright Anna Deavere Smith re-imagine that conversation in the present in A Rap on Race. This new dance-theater work combines text with movement and music to communicate the complexities of talking about race, at a time when that conversation is as necessary as ever.

A unique, interactive chamber music experience with members of the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia. Played in the round, a host will provide background and insight on each work and lead conversations with the musicians between pieces. Each performance concludes with a casual audience Q&A.

Origins & Diaspora: West African musical traditions and influences in classical music

In this Philadelphia premiere, Grammy® Award-winning early music interpreter Jordi Savall, distinguished West African singer Kassé Mady Diabaté and artists representing Europe, Africa and the Americas explore the music through which enslaved peoples forged a sense of community, preserved their own humanity and found a way to endure. Accompanied by historical texts on slavery, this musical memoir honors their journeys through the musical legacy they left, aiming to illuminate both the cruelest depths and extraordinary resilience of the human spirit

He truly followed in his father’s footsteps. Now, acclaimed drummer, bandleader and composer T.S. Monk pays loving tribute to his famous father in honor of what have been his 100th birthday. Join us to celebrate Thelonious Monk’s timeless, swinging jazz in an evening of newly discovered compositions and beloved hits by this “Father of Modern Jazz.”

These music masters regularly obliterate musical borders and traverse new frontiers. Banjoist Béla Fleck, tabla player Zakir Hussain and bassist Edgar Meyer share the stage to unite the worlds of classical, bluegrass and world music. Each individually known as an innovator and virtuoso, their original trio music explores the connections between American roots and the classical Indian tradition. Joined by Rakesh Chaurasia on banusuri, get ready for an evening of world music fusion.

With their bright a cappella harmonies, the five women of Nobuntu have earned international praise for the passion and joy they bring to Zimbabwean songs, Afro-jazz and gospel. The quintet’s pure voices are augmented by traditional percussion and dance to celebrate the vibrant identity of their culture and what it means to be an African woman.

How far would you go to save a friend? When Kai vanishes, his best friend Gerda sets out on an enchanted adventure to rescue him from the evil Snow Queen. Based on the beloved fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen and brimming with “holiday magic” (The Philadelphia Inquirer), Enchantment Theatre Company uses life-size puppets, expressive masks, original music and imaginative effects to tell the story of a brave young girl and the power of friendship.

How far would you go to save a friend? When Kai vanishes, his best friend Gerda sets out on an enchanted adventure to rescue him from the evil Snow Queen. Based on the beloved fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen and brimming with “holiday magic” (The Philadelphia Inquirer), Enchantment Theatre Company uses life-size puppets, expressive masks, original music and imaginative effects to tell the story of a brave young girl and the power of friendship.

How far would you go to save a friend? When Kai vanishes, his best friend Gerda sets out on an enchanted adventure to rescue him from the evil Snow Queen. Based on the beloved fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen and brimming with “holiday magic” (The Philadelphia Inquirer), Enchantment Theatre Company uses life-size puppets, expressive masks, original music and imaginative effects to tell the story of a brave young girl and the power of friendship.

A cappella harmonies fit for a king! One of the world’s finest vocal ensembles, the Grammy® award-winning King’s Singers celebrate Christmas and their 50th anniversary with an afternoon of timeless carols, Christmas classics and new arrangements. Known for their choral virtuosity and irresistible British charm, “these six singers can do almost anything a full-sized chorus can do, with a degree of perfection that drops the jaw and delights the ear.” (The Seattle Times)

Tap, jazz and swing combine in the radiant choreography of Caleb Teicher, “one of the brightest lights in tap today.” (The New Yorker) A founding member of Dorrance Dance and the 2016 Dance Magazine “Best Emerging Choreographer,” Teicher’s signature style of musicality, humor and warmth will shine in Meet Ella, a swing duet set to Ella Fitzgerald, and Variations, a tap piece set to Bach’s timeless Goldberg Variations. Don’t miss the Philadelphia debut of Caleb Teicher & Company!

Tap, jazz and swing combine in the radiant choreography of Caleb Teicher, “one of the brightest lights in tap today.” (The New Yorker) A founding member of Dorrance Dance and the 2016 Dance Magazine “Best Emerging Choreographer,” Teicher’s signature style of musicality, humor and warmth will shine in Meet Ella, a swing duet set to Ella Fitzgerald, and Variations, a tap piece set to Bach’s timeless Goldberg Variations. Don’t miss the Philadelphia debut of Caleb Teicher & Company!

Tap, jazz and swing combine in the radiant choreography of Caleb Teicher, “one of the brightest lights in tap today.” (The New Yorker) A founding member of Dorrance Dance and the 2016 Dance Magazine “Best Emerging Choreographer,” Teicher’s signature style of musicality, humor and warmth will shine in Meet Ella, a swing duet set to Ella Fitzgerald, and Variations, a tap piece set to Bach’s timeless Goldberg Variations. Don’t miss the Philadelphia debut of Caleb Teicher & Company!

Hailed as “superb” (The New York Times) and “ardently angelic” (The Los Angeles Times), enjoy a special evening with The Crossing, a Grammy® Award-winning, Philadelphia-based chamber choir conducted by Donald Nally. The Crossing @ Christmas will feature a world premiere by composer Gavin Bryars and other new music works, all meant to reflect on our world in the winter holiday season.

Classical, big band and New Orleans swing combine for a jazzy holiday celebration with the Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass. Originally taught by his cousin, Wynton, and now Principal Trumpet with the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, Marsalis brought together a group of top brass players from across the country, all dedicated to creating joyful experiences in music. Returning to the Annenberg Center after a sold out performance in 2016, don’t miss this evening of swinging holiday sounds!

“One of the great companies of the world” (The New York Times), the Martha Graham Dance Company is one of the oldest and most celebrated contemporary dance companies on the planet. In the EVE Project, this iconic troupe stays true to Graham’s tradition of social activism with a program by all female choreographers commemorating the upcoming centennial of the 19th Amendment. Featuring the powerful Philadelphia premiere of Chronicle by Graham as well as a preview of a new work by contemporary superstars Maxine Doyle and Bobbi Jene Smith, this amazing company continues to inspire and impress the generations worldwide.

“One of the great companies of the world” (The New York Times), the Martha Graham Dance Company is one of the oldest and most celebrated contemporary dance companies on the planet. In the EVE Project, this iconic troupe stays true to Graham’s tradition of social activism with a program by all female choreographers commemorating the upcoming centennial of the 19th Amendment. Featuring the powerful Philadelphia premiere of Chronicle by Graham as well as a preview of a new work by contemporary superstars Maxine Doyle and Bobbi Jene Smith, this amazing company continues to inspire and impress the generations worldwide.

“One of the great companies of the world” (The New York Times), the Martha Graham Dance Company is one of the oldest and most celebrated contemporary dance companies on the planet. In the EVE Project, this iconic troupe stays true to Graham’s tradition of social activism with a program by all female choreographers commemorating the upcoming centennial of the 19th Amendment. Featuring the powerful Philadelphia premiere of Chronicle by Graham as well as a preview of a new work by contemporary superstars Maxine Doyle and Bobbi Jene Smith, this amazing company continues to inspire and impress the generations worldwide.

René Marie's empowered musical risk-taking, flawless artistry and searing honesty have captivated audiences and critics alike, making her "one of the most sensuous songbirds ever captured on disc" (JazzTimes). Rooted in jazz traditions and mixing in a little folk and R&B, her Grammy®-nominated music mines her survivor's journey while navigating the bright and dark corners of the human experience as only she can.

42 feet full of thrills, laughs and excitement. At the heart of every circus, a 42 foot ring promises entertainment like none other. “Intelligently conceived and expertly executed” (The New York Times), this brand new Cirque Mechanics show takes an industrial spin on traditional circus with acrobats on mechanical wonders, ageless stories spun in mid-air and astonishing theatrics for the whole family. Step right up ladies and gentlemen, and enter the Cirque Mechanics world of gears and canvas, pulleys and sawdust, all within 42FT.

A unique, interactive chamber music experience with members of the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia. Played in the round, a host will provide background and insight on each work and lead conversations with the musicians between pieces. Each performance concludes with a casual audience Q&A.

intersect10: African influences on rock, pop, jazz, classical, and folk music

“Most of what we say is drivel.” “And it’s still brilliant.” Two men meet for a pint. They talk about their dads, death, football, North Korea, the afterlife and everything under the sun. Roddy Doyle’s hilarious and provocative Two Pints started as a conversation on Facebook. Now, following a sold-out tour across Ireland, the Abbey Theatre brings the play to life at our local pub, the Blarney Stone. This Philadelphia premiere is” achingly, breathtakingly funny” (Sunday Independent), so pull up a stool and listen in.

“Most of what we say is drivel.” “And it’s still brilliant.” Two men meet for a pint. They talk about their dads, death, football, North Korea, the afterlife and everything under the sun. Roddy Doyle’s hilarious and provocative Two Pints started as a conversation on Facebook. Now, following a sold-out tour across Ireland, the Abbey Theatre brings the play to life at our local pub, the Blarney Stone. This Philadelphia premiere is” achingly, breathtakingly funny” (Sunday Independent), so pull up a stool and listen in.

“Most of what we say is drivel.” “And it’s still brilliant.” Two men meet for a pint. They talk about their dads, death, football, North Korea, the afterlife and everything under the sun. Roddy Doyle’s hilarious and provocative Two Pints started as a conversation on Facebook. Now, following a sold-out tour across Ireland, the Abbey Theatre brings the play to life at our local pub, the Blarney Stone. This Philadelphia premiere is” achingly, breathtakingly funny” (Sunday Independent), so pull up a stool and listen in.

“Most of what we say is drivel.” “And it’s still brilliant.” Two men meet for a pint. They talk about their dads, death, football, North Korea, the afterlife and everything under the sun. Roddy Doyle’s hilarious and provocative Two Pints started as a conversation on Facebook. Now, following a sold-out tour across Ireland, the Abbey Theatre brings the play to life at our local pub, the Blarney Stone. This Philadelphia premiere is” achingly, breathtakingly funny” (Sunday Independent), so pull up a stool and listen in.

“Most of what we say is drivel.” “And it’s still brilliant.” Two men meet for a pint. They talk about their dads, death, football, North Korea, the afterlife and everything under the sun. Roddy Doyle’s hilarious and provocative Two Pints started as a conversation on Facebook. Now, following a sold-out tour across Ireland, the Abbey Theatre brings the play to life at our local pub, the Blarney Stone. This Philadelphia premiere is” achingly, breathtakingly funny” (Sunday Independent), so pull up a stool and listen in.

Welcome back the iconic Dance Theatre of Harlem with a world premiere work by Philadelphia native and resident choreographer, Robert Garland. This company of exceptionally-trained dancers breathes new life into classical ballet with masterful repertoire performed across the globe. This unparalleled force in dance performs a program of world and Philadelphia premieres.

Welcome back the iconic Dance Theatre of Harlem with a world premiere work by Philadelphia native and resident choreographer, Robert Garland. This company of exceptionally-trained dancers breathes new life into classical ballet with masterful repertoire performed across the globe. This unparalleled force in dance performs a program of world and Philadelphia premieres.

Welcome back the iconic Dance Theatre of Harlem with a world premiere work by Philadelphia native and resident choreographer, Robert Garland. This company of exceptionally-trained dancers breathes new life into classical ballet with masterful repertoire performed across the globe. This unparalleled force in dance performs a program of world and Philadelphia premieres.

What does freedom sound like in confinement? In Vessels, seven women explore the transcendental possibilities of music during the Middle Passage. Set in an interactive, sculptural environment that invokes those infamous ships, this interdisciplinary, speculative history work explores singing as a survival tool. Vessels will premiere in fall 2018 in New Orleans, before heading to Philadelphia for its indoor world premiere.

What does freedom sound like in confinement? In Vessels, seven women explore the transcendental possibilities of music during the Middle Passage. Set in an interactive, sculptural environment that invokes those infamous ships, this interdisciplinary, speculative history work explores singing as a survival tool. Vessels will premiere in fall 2018 in New Orleans, before heading to Philadelphia for its indoor world premiere.

What does freedom sound like in confinement? In Vessels, seven women explore the transcendental possibilities of music during the Middle Passage. Set in an interactive, sculptural environment that invokes those infamous ships, this interdisciplinary, speculative history work explores singing as a survival tool. Vessels will premiere in fall 2018 in New Orleans, before heading to Philadelphia for its indoor world premiere.

What does freedom sound like in confinement? In Vessels, seven women explore the transcendental possibilities of music during the Middle Passage. Set in an interactive, sculptural environment that invokes those infamous ships, this interdisciplinary, speculative history work explores singing as a survival tool. Vessels will premiere in fall 2018 in New Orleans, before heading to Philadelphia for its indoor world premiere.

A unique, interactive chamber music experience with members of the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia. Played in the round, a host will provide background and insight on each work and lead conversations with the musicians between pieces. Each performance concludes with a casual audience Q&A.

Call & Response: African-American composers from Burleigh to Braxton

New York-based contemporary troupe Dance Heginbotham makes its Philadelphia debut. Founded in 2012 by former Mark Morris Dance Group dancer John Heginbotham, this company quickly established itself with works of vibrant athleticism, humor and adventurous theatricality. Heginbotham has “a true theater artist’s instinct for commanding his audience” (The New York Times), so don’t miss this company’s first-ever performance in Philadelphia.

New York-based contemporary troupe Dance Heginbotham makes its Philadelphia debut. Founded in 2012 by former Mark Morris Dance Group dancer John Heginbotham, this company quickly established itself with works of vibrant athleticism, humor and adventurous theatricality. Heginbotham has “a true theater artist’s instinct for commanding his audience” (The New York Times), so don’t miss this company’s first-ever performance in Philadelphia.

Annenberg Center Debut

Irish singing sensation Michael Londra and his dazzling cast of Riverdance and Lord of the Dance alumni perform a lively evening of traditional Irish music and step dancing. Backed by an ensemble of Ireland’s finest musicians, Michael Londra and the Celtic Fire promise an electric St. Patrick’s Day celebration straight from the heart of the Emerald Isle.

After a 15-year hiatus, the Lionel Hampton Big Band is back on stage, promising an energetic evening of jazz, swing and bebop. The youngest brother in the venerable first family of jazz, vibraphonist Jason Marsalis leads this 16-strong group, comprised of musicians who played with renowned bandleader/musician Lionel Hampton himself. Don’t miss this night of swinging jazz from Hampton’s repertoire, including favorites by Dizzy Gillespie, Frank Foster, Quincy Jones and more.

Contemporary dance meets Argentine tango in Sin Salida, a full-length work by award-winning choreographer Kate Weare and Esteban Moreno of the French/Argentinean tango troupe, Union Tanguera. With live music by Argentinean composer Gustavo Beytelmann, this riveting and sensual work explores the stark contrast of the tango coupling versus the individual focus in modern dance, posing the question: do we need others to perceive and understand ourselves? Don’t miss this unique cross-pollination of disciplines, cultures and values performed by two incredible dance companies.

Contemporary dance meets Argentine tango in Sin Salida, a full-length work by award-winning choreographer Kate Weare and Esteban Moreno of the French/Argentinean tango troupe, Union Tanguera. With live music by Argentinean composer Gustavo Beytelmann, this riveting and sensual work explores the stark contrast of the tango coupling versus the individual focus in modern dance, posing the question: do we need others to perceive and understand ourselves? Don’t miss this unique cross-pollination of disciplines, cultures and values performed by two incredible dance companies.

Contemporary dance meets Argentine tango in Sin Salida, a full-length work by award-winning choreographer Kate Weare and Esteban Moreno of the French/Argentinean tango troupe, Union Tanguera. With live music by Argentinean composer Gustavo Beytelmann, this riveting and sensual work explores the stark contrast of the tango coupling versus the individual focus in modern dance, posing the question: do we need others to perceive and understand ourselves? Don’t miss this unique cross-pollination of disciplines, cultures and values performed by two incredible dance companies.

Electrifying. There’s simply no better word to describe Hiromi’s live performances. A pianist/composer known for a creative output that expands on jazz, classical and pop, Hiromi’s “dazzling, explosive keyboard abilities” (NPR) captivate audiences and critics alike. This “forceful presence on any stage” (The New York Times) returns to the Annenberg Center for a rare, solo performance.

Hailed for its superbly trained dancers and inventive choreography, Kun-Yang Lin/Dancers’ artistry is a hybrid of Asian philosophies and Western culture infused with a fearless physicality that resonates with the soul. Lush works of poetic sensibility, “Lin’s dances, simultaneously abstract and specific, create and inhabit worlds of their own” (The New York Times). Don’t miss KYL/D in its Annenberg Center debut!

Hailed for its superbly trained dancers and inventive choreography, Kun-Yang Lin/Dancers’ artistry is a hybrid of Asian philosophies and Western culture infused with a fearless physicality that resonates with the soul. Lush works of poetic sensibility, “Lin’s dances, simultaneously abstract and specific, create and inhabit worlds of their own” (The New York Times). Don’t miss KYL/D in its Annenberg Center debut!

“One of the period-instrument world’s most successful ensembles” (The New York Times), The English Concert performs in Philadelphia for the first time following sold-out appearances at Carnegie Hall. Conducted by Harry Bicket, enjoy the sparkling Handel oratorio Semele, a tale of a princess’ love affair with a god told in a stream of easy-flowing melodies and dazzling coloratura. With show-stopping arias including “Endless pleasure, endless love” and “Where’er you walk,” The English Concert’s stunning and critically lauded operas-in-concert promise a very special evening.

Los Angeles-based BODYTRAFFIC is “known for its versatility, bringing vivid theatricality to a range of provocative works commissioned from some of today’s most dynamic choreographers.” (The Boston Globe) Blending contemporary, hip hop, jazz and ballet, this troupe will perform a program of Philadelphia premieres including A Million Voices, a work set to Peggy Lee classics by Pennsylvania Ballet resident choreographer and BalletX co-founder, Matthew Neenan.

Los Angeles-based BODYTRAFFIC is “known for its versatility, bringing vivid theatricality to a range of provocative works commissioned from some of today’s most dynamic choreographers.” (The Boston Globe) Blending contemporary, hip hop, jazz and ballet, this troupe will perform a program of Philadelphia premieres including A Million Voices, a work set to Peggy Lee classics by Pennsylvania Ballet resident choreographer and BalletX co-founder, Matthew Neenan.

Los Angeles-based BODYTRAFFIC is “known for its versatility, bringing vivid theatricality to a range of provocative works commissioned from some of today’s most dynamic choreographers.” (The Boston Globe) Blending contemporary, hip hop, jazz and ballet, this troupe will perform a program of Philadelphia premieres including A Million Voices, a work set to Peggy Lee classics by Pennsylvania Ballet resident choreographer and BalletX co-founder, Matthew Neenan.

Parsons Dance “is a 'dance your heart out' (at all times, no excuses) kind of enterprise" (The New York Times). Known for remarkable athleticism and impressive ensemble work, this celebrated troupe delivers bold, exuberant and joyous contemporary dance. Welcome this audience favorite back to Philadelphia for new works alongside the beloved stroboscopic masterpiece, Caught.

Parsons Dance “is a 'dance your heart out' (at all times, no excuses) kind of enterprise" (The New York Times). Known for remarkable athleticism and impressive ensemble work, this celebrated troupe delivers bold, exuberant and joyous contemporary dance. Welcome this audience favorite back to Philadelphia for new works alongside the beloved stroboscopic masterpiece, Caught.

Parsons Dance “is a 'dance your heart out' (at all times, no excuses) kind of enterprise" (The New York Times). Known for remarkable athleticism and impressive ensemble work, this celebrated troupe delivers bold, exuberant and joyous contemporary dance. Welcome this audience favorite back to Philadelphia for new works alongside the beloved stroboscopic masterpiece, Caught.

Harlem-based piano phenom Emmet Cohen makes his Annenberg Center debut backed by his all-star trio, including The Late Show with Stephen Colbert bassist, Russell Hall, and drummer Evan Sherman. With a “kaleidoscopic sense of musical narrative” (Downbeat Magazine), Cohen will blow you away with his astonishing technique, innovative sound and exuberant charm. Don’t miss your chance to see this rising jazz star.