Texas Performing Arts is celebrating 45 years by bringing the world to Austin. Its new season features Broadway favorites, legendary American artists, world-class dance and theatrical magic, including Audra McDonald, Branford Marsalis, Dianne Reeves and the return of “The Phantom of the Opera.”
Texas Performing Arts Executive and Artistic Director Bob Bursey joined We Are Austin to preview the milestone season and share how the organization is creating something for nearly every kind of performing arts fan.
Texas Performing Arts Executive and Artistic Director Bob Bursey joined We Are Austin to preview the milestone season and share how the organization is creating something for nearly every kind of performing arts fan.
Bringing the World to Austin
For its 45th season, Texas Performing Arts wanted a lineup that celebrates both homegrown American talent and acclaimed performers from around the globe.
“We wanted it to reflect some of the greatest American artists of our time, as well as artists from around the world,” Bursey said. “That’s one of the great things that we get to do at Texas Performing Arts, is bring the world to Austin.”
The season begins Sept. 25 and 26 with Scottish illusionist and theater artist Scott Silven and his production, “The Lost Things.”
Bursey describes it as a theatrical exploration of the things and memories people lose as they move through life.
Texas Performing Arts Celebrates 45 years with Broadway, jazz legends, dance, and magic!
Jazz Legends Celebrate John Coltrane
In October, saxophonist Branford Marsalis and acclaimed vocalist Dianne Reeves come together at Hogg Memorial Auditorium to celebrate 100 years of John Coltrane.
Bursey called Marsalis and Reeves “two amazing titans of American music,” with the historic UT Austin venue providing an intimate setting for the performance.
Texas Performing Arts Celebrates 45 years with Broadway, jazz legends, dance, and magic!
An Evening With Audra McDonald
Another American theater legend arrives in January when Audra McDonald takes the stage with her band.
The six-time Tony Award winner will perform a concert centered around music from films and selections connected to the Great American Songbook.
“Speaking of American legends, six-time Tony Award-winning, most Tony Awards for an actor, and she’ll be coming in concert with her band in January,” Bursey said.
Texas Performing Arts Celebrates 45 years with Broadway, jazz legends, dance, and magic! Audra McDonald Portraits. CREDIT: Allison Michael Orenstein
Limón Dance Company Returns to Austin
The Limón Dance Company also returns to Austin after many years away.
Bursey said Bass Concert Hall was originally designed with dance in mind, making it an ideal setting to showcase the company’s celebrated modern dance repertoire.
“We’re excited to showcase their legendary choreography,” Bursey said.
Texas Performing Arts Celebrates 45 years with Broadway, jazz legends, dance, and magic!
Broadway in Austin’s Biggest Season Yet
The celebration gets even bigger with 11 Broadway productions, making this the largest Broadway in Austin season yet.
The lineup kicks off with “Mrs. Doubtfire,” followed by shows including the 10th anniversary tour of “Waitress,” “A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical” and “Buena Vista Social Club.”
Then in January, “The Phantom of the Opera” returns in a new production featuring the iconic Andrew Lloyd Webber score alongside elaborate sets, costumes and performances.
“It’s big,” Bursey said. “The sets, the costumes, the voices, the incredible Andrew Lloyd Webber score. It’s going to be spectacular.”
Texas Performing Arts Celebrates 45 years with Broadway, jazz legends, dance, and magic!
Something for Everyone
Beyond the major names, Bursey says the larger goal is to make Texas Performing Arts feel like a place where everyone can find something that speaks to them.
“Whether you’re into comedy, concerts, Broadway, popular music, even experimental performances, we’ve got something for you,” Bursey said.
Visit TexasPerformingArts.org to explore the complete 45th season and find ticket information.
Texas Performing Arts Celebrates 45 years with Broadway, jazz legends, dance, and magic!