COMMA - Season Brochure - 2026-2027

Dear CoMMA Patrons,

Welcome to our milestone 40th Anniversary Season! We are thrilled to celebrate four decades of bringing world-class professional entertainment to our community and we have a truly fabulous lineup of performances waiting for you.

As we mark this special year, we are introducing several exciting updates based directly on your feedback, along with some exclusive perks to thank our dedicated Season Ticket Holders:

Earlier Show Times: You asked, and we listened! To accommodate your preferences, all evening MainStage performances will now start at 7:00 PM, with lobby doors opening at 6:00 PM.

Exclusive Season Ticket Holder Perks: This year, Season Ticket Holders will receive a distinct, specially colored ticket.

This unlocks two brand-new benefits:

- Express Entry: Skip the lines with a dedicated, third scanning lane into the auditorium exclusive to Season Ticket Holders.

- VIP Receptions: Join us for three exclusive pre-show receptions on the second floor. Doors for these events will open early at 5:30 PM.

Commemorative 40th Anniversary Gift: To commemorate this landmark year, we have partnered with Hamilton Williams and W. Union Arts Studio to create custom, one-of-a-kind anniversary mugs. These will be given exclusively to Season Ticket Holders.

New FamilyStage Series: Introduce the next generation to the magic of live theater! This year, we are debuting a series of family-friendly shows. While they are not part of the standard season package, these performances are perfectly geared toward younger audiences—though we promise adults will love them just as much!

Thank you for forty years of incredible support, patronage, and passion for the arts. We cannot wait to celebrate this historic season with you.

See you at the theater!

Sincerely,

• Invitations to three pre-show receptions reserved only for Season Ticket Holders.

• Priority access to choose your seats for the entire season before single tickets are on sale to the public.

• Cost savings of 45% compared to purchasing individual tickets throughout the year in the Price 1 tier.

• NEW THIS SEASON – The flexibility to spread your investment over a convenient three-month (July–September) payment plan.

• NEW THIS SEASON – A dedicated express check-in, only for Season Ticket Holders. No waiting in line to scan your ticket.

Tickets may be purchased at the CoMMA Box Office 401 S. College Street | Morganton, NC 28655 Monday - Friday | 12PM - 5PM (and one hour prior to all curtain times) www.commaonline.org

to 6.75%

DONNA WASHINGTON

Fun, Foolery, and Folktales

“Every story I tell is true…except for the parts I make up.” Donna Washington

Get ready to take an unforgettable journey with Donna Washington! You might visit the North Wind, hang out with an exasperated turtle, find out why Possum plays dead, or find out why the Sun and Moon live in the sky. Audiences will laugh, play along, and leave with a story or two of their own to share.

Donna Washington is an award-winning internationally known master storyteller, artist-educator, and author who has been performing for audiences of all ages for over thirty-six years. She is renowned for her storytelling for both children & adults from poignant & funny fables about the human condition to relationships stories to spine-tingling tales of terror. She has been featured around the world including Canada, Peru, Ireland, Argentina & Hong Kong. SATURDAY,

THE MAGIC OF JEKI YOO

Over 13 million people watched JEKI on America’s Got Talent as he performed his own unique style of close-up magic. Simon Cowell was left stunned by what he had just witnessed. JEKI won the hearts of a nation.

Social media was a buzz… “Love your laugh” and “JEKI is so cool”. Wins come in many forms! Especially when AGT’s Twitter feed dubbed him “The Cutest Magician of All Time!”

PETER PAN

The Barter Players

Wendy and her brothers love to play make-believe in their nursery. Then one night, a young boy named Peter Pan flies in through the window and whisks them away to a Neverland filled with Lost Boys, pirates, and a man-eating crocodile. Brought to life with six quick-changing actors, the Barter Players make this an adventure you will never forget!

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2027 2:00PM

ALL TICKETS: $13

FROSTY

A Musical Adventure

A young orphan named Billy discovers magic in a stolen hat, and when he places it on a snowman’s head, that snowman comes to life!

Can Frosty help Billy find his real family in time for Christmas? Join them on a thrilling quest through New York City as they discover the real magic of the season is Love.

About the Barter Players: With over 30 years of touring experience, The Barter Players perform world-class theatre for young audiences all around the United States. Because of our fierce theatricality and no-holds-barred acting, we have a following among both children and adults alike. The child in all of us deserves wild adventure, incredible story, and the excitement of live theatre.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2026 2:00PM & 7:00PM

ALL TICKETS: $13

BOTH SHOWS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

SPIRIT OF NEW ORLEANS

A Soulful Celebration with The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra

Meet your next two best friends......Jeremy Davis and Clay Johnson, the dynamic duo leading their fiery hot big band, The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra.

Get ready to experience the heart and soul of the Crescent City. Spirit of New Orleans is an electrifying evening of music celebrating one of America’s most iconic cultural hubs. Blending the swinging sound of big band with the grooves of funk and blues—and the unmistakable spirit of Mardi Gras—this high-energy show brings New Orleans straight to Morganton!

Led by the charismatic duo Jeremy Davis and Clay Johnson, The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra delivers a fresh, powerful take on timeless classics and modern favorites, all wrapped in Southern charm and highoctane style. From Bourbon Street to the bayou, Spirit of New Orleans is more than a concert—it’s a full-on celebration of rhythm, soul, and joie de vivre.

Laissez les bon temps rouler—let the good times roll!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2026 7:00PM

KEVIN NEALON

Emmy and SAG-nominated actor, comedian, and author Kevin Nealon is best known for his nine-year stint as a cast member of NBC’s Saturday Night Live and has received critical acclaim for his role in the Showtime series

Weeds Kevin most recently starred on the CBS-TV comedy series Man With A Plan, produces and hosts digital series Hiking with Kevin and tours his stand-up globally.

His extensive film career includes projects such as Anger Management, Eight Crazy Nights, The Wedding Singer, Happy Gilmore, Just Go With It, You Don’t Mess with the Zohan, Joe Dirt, Daddy Day Care, Roxanne, and Grandma’s Boy.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2026 7:00PM

ADULT: $23 - $58 YOUTH: $13

Don’t Delay Your Care

At UNC Health Blue Ridge, we believe in partnering with communities and creating lifelong relationships with our patients, wherever you may be. We want to form personal connections to better understand your health history.

UNC Health Blue Ridge provides you direct access to boardcertified physicians, highly trained specialists, and advanced practice providers right here in your own backyard.

HAYDE BLUEGRASS ORCHESTRA

Hayde Bluegrass Orchestra is a seven-piece acoustic band from Oslo, Norway, that has captured hearts in both Norway and the US with its unique blend of bluegrass and Nordic folk – a style often dubbed “Nordicana.” Featuring fiddle, dobro, banjo, mandolin, guitar, and even an accordion alongside four-part vocal harmonies, the group delivers a fresh take on American roots music wrapped in a finely tuned folk sound.

Fronted by Rebekka Nilsson –winner of the 2022 IBMA Momentum “Vocalist of the Year” award – Hayde Bluegrass Orchestra combines original songs, classic tunes, and timeless covers into an energetic and soulful repertoire.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2026 | 7:00PM

If you don’t have a primary care provider, find one near you. Go to Find a Doctor at uncbr.org/doc. Or scan this QR Code: We are friends and neighbors taking care of friends and neighbors.

WESTERN PIEDMONT SYMPHONY

Holiday Spectacular

Light up the holidays with the Western Piedmont Symphony’s Holiday Spectacular, led by Maestro Matthew Troy and featuring audience favorite Matt Sickles on electric

guitar, performing classic Christmas songs, seasonal movie music, and an electrifying array of family-favorites and holiday hits. The annual Holiday Spectacular concert has become one of the region’s favorite holiday traditions, bringing together families, friends, and the community for a night of seasonal wonder and festive music.

*VIP Pre-Show Reception at 5:30PM in the Mezzanine. Season Pass Required for Entry.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2026 7:00PM

‘26-‘27 MAINSTAGE SEASON PACKAGE

ADULT: $38 - $78 YOUTH: $13

PIANOMANIA

Rockin’ The 1950s with Jared Freiburg

Take a Rock ‘n’ Roll roller coaster ride

through one of the most explosive and influential musical styles of the 20th Century in PIANOMANIA!

– Jared Freiburg’s high-energy celebration of the 1950s.

Featuring music made famous by the most prolific piano entertainers from that era (including Little Richard, Ray

Charles, and more) as well as many of the artists who influenced them and were influenced BY them (Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, and even Billy Joel), this show has electrified audiences worldwide by showcasing Jared’s incredible virtuosity on a cavalcade of rock-and-roll, blues, jazz, and country hits.

Jared’s love for this music was cemented performing the role of Jerry Lee Lewis in multiple productions of the Tony Award-winning Broadway megahit Million Dollar Quartet and his pedigree can be summed up most easily by the ‘Wild One’ himself: “I am humbled and grateful to be honored this way. God bless you, Jared, and KEEP ROCKIN’!

SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2027 | 7:00PM

‘26-‘27 MAINSTAGE SEASON PACKAGE

ADULT: $18 - $48

YOUTH: $13

HOTEL CALIFORNIA

“A Salute to the Eagles” By respectfully and accurately reproducing the Grammy award winning sounds of our generation’s Greatest American Songbook, this legendary Southern California group, has become the most successful and longest running show of its kind.

So join us on a dark desert highway...

A spirited blend of originality and the pursuit of excellence have taken Hotel California “A Salute to the Eagles” to a level of recognition normally reserved for Gold and Platinum recording artists.

Feel the cool wind in your hair...

It’s time to check into...

The Hotel California. ‘26-‘27

ADULT: $23 - $58 YOUTH: $13

WAITRESS

Inspired by the beloved film and featuring music by Grammy® Award winner Sara Bareilles, Waitress tells the story of Jenna, an expert pie maker who dreams of a way out of her small town. A baking contest and the town’s new doctor may offer her a fresh start, but Jenna must summon the strength to rebuild her own life. Don’t miss this uplifting celebration of friendship, motherhood, and the magic of a well-made pie.

7:00PM

LONESOME RIVER BAND

Since its formation decades ago, Lonesome River Band continues its reputation as one of the most respected names in bluegrass music.

Five-time International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Banjo Player of the

Year, and winner of the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass, Sammy Shelor leads the group that is constantly breaking new ground in acoustic music. With two stellar lead vocalists, Jesse Smathers (guitar) and Adam Miller (mandolin), and the impressive talents of Mike Hartgrove (fiddle) and Kameron Keller (bass), the band seamlessly comes together, performing the trademark sound that fans continue to embrace.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2027 | 7:00PM

ADULT: $18 - $48

YOUTH: $13

EASTWOOD BY EASTWOOD

Showcasing thirteen iconic musical themes from Clint Eastwood’s films, Eastwood by Eastwood is led by the highly respected American jazz bassist and composer Kyle Eastwood, Clint’s son. Highlighting themes from Eastwood films such as Gran Torino, Letters from Iwo Jima, Bridges of Madison County, Changeling, and Flags of our Fathers, the project has solidified Kyle’s place as a highly respected musician and composer.

THURSDAY, MARCH 4, 2027 | 7:00PM

ADULT: $18 - $48

YOUTH: $13

THE SIMON & GARFUNKEL STORY

The Simon & Garfunkel Story is touring North America again this year! Using huge projection photos and original film footage, featuring a full live band performing all the hits including ‘Mrs. Robinson’, ‘Cecilia’, ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’, ‘Homeward Bound’ and many more.

‘‘Fantastic’’ – Elaine Paige, BBC Radio and “Authentic and Exciting” – The Stage

The immersive concert-style theater show chronicles the amazing journey shared by the folk-rock duo, Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel. It tells the story from their humble beginnings as Tom & Jerry to their incredible success as one of the best-selling music groups of the ‘60’s to their dramatic split in 1970. It culminates with the famous “The Concert in Central Park” reunion in 1981 with more than half a million fans in attendance.

WEDNESDAY,

LEGALLY BLONDE

OMG you guys!!! Legally Blonde - The Musical is coming to CoMMA!

Fabulously fun and international award-winning Legally Blonde The Musical is the ultimate Broadway tribute to Girl Power! The story follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, sexism, snobbery, and scandal in pursuit of her dreams, and proves that you can be both legally blonde AND the smartest person in the room. This contemporary, topical story touches on many current hot button issues while delighting audiences with memorable songs and explosive dances. Legally Blonde warms the heart by proving that self-discovery never goes out of style!

Based on the iconic movie, Legally Blonde will take you from the sorority house to the halls of justice with Broadway’s brightest heroine and, of course, her Chihuahua, Bruiser.

“A high-energy...hymn to the glories of girlishness.” – The New York Times

TUESDAY, MARCH 23, 2027 7:00PM

ADULT:

YOUTH:

Stay overnight at Fairfield Inn & Suites. Enjoy dinner & a show, then explore our vibrant downtown: shopping, coffee, books, pottery, breweries and more! Scan to follow us on

RANDY TRAVIS & THE ORIGINAL RANDY TRAVIS BAND

With Guest Vocalist James Dupré

Featuring the legendary country singer and his co-star in the independent film

The Price James Dupré. The Country

Music Hall of Fame member’s long-time touring band rejoins “Hoss”, as they affectionately call Travis, on the road for the first time since right before his stroke in 2013.

The show will consist of Dupré and the band performing all of his iconic number ones including “On The Other Hand”, “Forever and Ever, Amen” and “Three Wooden Crosses”.

Randy Travis will make a special appearance, engaging with the audience and taking part in the show. Please note:

While he will not be singing, his presence will make for an unforgettable experience. FRIDAY, APRIL 9, 2027 | 7:00PM

WESTERN PIEDMONT

SYMPHONY

Shaken, Not Stirred -

The Music of James Bond

Experience the thrill of espionage with the Western Piedmont Symphony, led by Maestro Matthew Troy, performing the iconic music themes from James Bond and other spy thrillers! Featured soloist Jodi Burns returns to the stage to sing memorable Bond songs, such as “Diamonds Are Forever,” “Skyfall,” and more. Be transported to a world of secret agents, daring escapades, and highspeed chases as pianist Thomas Pandolfi performs the “Bond Piano Concerto.” Dust off your tuxedo and join the Symphony for a night of music and martinis – shaken, not stirred.

SATURDAY, MAY 8, 2027 7:00PM

ADULT: $38 - $78

YOUTH: $13

*VIP Pre-Show Reception at 5:30PM in the Mezzanine. Season Pass Required for Entry.

Derek Long LLC Presents THE WOMAN IN BLACK

A lawyer obsessed with a curse he believes has been cast over him and his family by the spectre of the Woman in Black, engages a skeptical young actor to help him tell his terrifying story, and exorcise the fear that grips his soul. It all begins innocently enough, but as they reach further into his darkest memories, they find themselves caught up in a world of eerie marshes and moaning winds.

Susan Hill’s acclaimed ghost story comes dramatically alive in Stephen Mallatrat’s ingenious stage adaptation.

OCTOBER 22, 23, & 24, 2026 7:00PM OCTOBER 25, 2026 | 2:00PM* & 6:00PM

ALL TICKETS: $25

*The October 25th 2pm performance will be Deaf inclusive. ASL interpreters will be provided. Ticket proceeds from this performance to go to Alder Springs Deaf and Blind Community in Morganton.

CoMMA Presents NUTCRACKER HOLIDAY

OPEN HOUSE 2026

Step into the magic of the season with a visit to CoMMA!

• Tour our theatre

• Explore a stunning collection of 100+ nutcrackers

• Enjoy holiday music and seasonal ambiance

• Hot cocoa & cookies

• Make your own nutcracker ornament

• Lean about upcoming performances and enter our raffle for tickets

Bring your holiday spirit and make this a new seasonal tradition! SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15,

World Ballet Company

THE NUTCRACKER

The Holiday Magic Begins Here — With a LIVE Orchestra.

This holiday season, experience The Nutcracker like never before.

Featuring a live orchestra, 40 worldclass dancers, over 150 sparkling hand-sewn costumes, and lavish handcrafted sets, World Ballet Company’s The Nutcracker is a breathtaking holiday spectacle for all ages.

Follow Marie on a magical Christmas Eve journey as her beloved Nutcracker comes to life, sweeping her into a dreamworld of swirling snowflakes, battling mice, and the dazzling Kingdom of Sweets.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2026 7:00PM

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Get A Refund Or Exchange My Tickets?

If you are unexpectedly unable to attend, contact us in advance of the event and we will credit your account for use on a future CoMMA sponsored event.

Note: Credits cannot be issued post-event and only applies for CoMMA sponsored events. Rental event policies will be set at the discretion of the renter/promoter.

What Time Should I Arrive?

The CoMMA lobby opens one hour prior to all event times. Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to curtain.

Does My Baby/Toddler Need A Ticket?

Yes, to help us keep in compliance with fire codes, everyone must have a ticket.

I’ve Lost My Tickets. What Should I Do?

Tickets may be re-printed at our box office. Call or visit for assistance.

My Tickets Indicate That The Seats Skip A Number? Are My Seats Side By Side?

Tickets purchased on the left or right side of the theatre do indeed skip numbers, but not seats; this applies to both the Balcony and Orchestra levels. The Center section is numbered consecutively. The right side is odd numbered; the left side is even numbered.

I Need To Purchase Or Pick Up Tickets. Where Do I

Go?

Purchase and pick up tickets at our box office, located just inside the main entrance, to the right. If you already have tickets in hand, please proceed straight into the lobby to check-in.

What If I Arrive And The Parking Lot Is Full? What Are My Options?

You may park directly across the street in the gravel lot, or any on-street parking on the streets surrounding CoMMA (see map for more options).

Meeting Special Needs

Striving to provide everyone the opportunity to enjoy performance events, CoMMA makes every effort to accommodate guests who have special needs.

Accessibility

Parking, ramped entrance, wheelchair seating spaces with companion seating, and compliant restroom facilities are standard features.

Assistive Listening Devices

CoMMA utilizes the WaveCast App for hearing assistance.

Instructions to download and connect the app will be sent to attendees via email before each event in the “Know Before You Go” email. If you are not subscribed to our emails, you may also call the box office for instructions. If you do not have a smartphone, you can also request a hearing device from the box office at no charge.

Vision Seating

Patrons with impaired vision may request special seating.

Sign Interpretation

ASL interpretation for appropriate events will be provided at no expense to the patron. CoMMA requires a minimum of two weeks advance notice to secure sign interpretation services.

Service Animals

If you or someone in your party plans to attend an event with a service animal, please inform the Box Office so that an accessible seat may be arranged in advance. Parking Map