Wortham Presents 2023-2024 Season Brochure

WORTHAM CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

Be bold

Be surprised

Be entertained

Be curious

Be moved

Be immersed

Be astounded

Be inspired

Be connected

Be transported

Be different

Be unique

Be changed

Be here

This season, there are more reasons than ever to be at the Wortham.

(What are yours?)

Wortham Presents p. 3-31

Student Series p. 34

Classes and Camps p. 36

Great for Families p. 37

ARTRAGEOUS

SEPTEMBER 23 at 7 PM

Kick off the season with an immersive, one-of-a-kind arts experience that combines all modes of artistic expression on one stage. Described as “Picasso meets Blue Man Group” by The Chicago Tribune, Artrageous brings multi-talented visual artists together with world-class musicians and highly trained dancers to create stunning works of art in real time, leaving audiences singing, dancing and clapping along to this fascinating frenzy of movement and color.

DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE

Glow before the show!

Arrive early for a black light dance party and photo booth for all ages.

KATHY MATTEA

SATURDAY

OCTOBER 7 at 8 PM

No introduction is needed for this country music icon and fan favorite on the Wortham Center stage. With a soothing yet powerful voice, the legendary hitmaker brings elements of traditional country, folk, bluegrass and gospel to her music, fusing these influences with all the intimacy, heartfelt honesty and musical authenticity of a singer-songwriter. A performance from this multi-Grammy-winning artist is not to be missed.

DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE

(828) 257-4530 wortham arts .org

BLACK VIOLIN

THURSDAY

OCTOBER 12 at 7 PM

Prepare to be mesmerized as classical music and hip-hop collide. For more than two decades, this charismatic, two-time Grammy-nominated duo has reconceptualized how a violin concert looks and sounds, boldly merging string arrangements with modern beats and vocals to create a world where Mozart, Marvin Gaye and Kendrick Lamar harmoniously coexist on one stage.

THE ACTING COMPANY presents THE ODYSSEY

FRIDAY

OCTOBER 20 at 8 PM

Embark on an epic journey of adventure and discovery with one of the country’s leading professional touring theatre companies. With a talented cast, stunning visuals and superb direction, this season’s riveting stage adaptation, based on Homer’s timeless epic poem, brings to life the heroism, drama and intrigue of one of the greatest tales in Western literature, following the legendary hero Odysseus on his quest to return home to Ithaca.

DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE

Connect with the art and artists in pre-show discussions.

ANDREW FINN MAGILL

FRIDAY OCTOBER 27 at 8 PM

This virtuosic fiddler blends traditional Irish music with jazz, bluegrass and other world influences to deliver a musical experience like no other. Through dynamic playing, adept improvisation and soulful expression, Finn’s performances are an electrifying fusion of old and new, with masterful musicianship that’s earned him multiple appearances on MTV-U, PBS and NPR, as well as a spot in the All-Ireland Fiddle Championship finals.

DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE

TREY M c LAUGHLIN & THE SOUNDS OF ZAMAR

SATURDAY

NOVEMBER 11 at 7 PM

With rich harmonies, powerful vocals and an electrifying stage presence, this contemporary gospel group creates an unforgettable and uplifting musical experience that’s gained them viral success, amassing millions of fans and followers from all corners of the globe. Whether performing traditional standards, hits from musical theatre or their own original music, these prolific singers deliver jubilation as they transcend genre and speak to the heart of every listener.

DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE

A SWANNANOA SOLSTICE

SUNDAY

DECEMBER 17 at 2 PM & 7 PM

For more than 20 years, this beloved local holiday tradition has ushered in the winter season with a joyful infusion of performances by the best and brightest artists in our region. This year, the celebration welcomes the next generation of musicians to the stage to spread seasonal warmth, magic and cheer with Celtic, American-roots and world-influenced music, rousing dance and timeless stories — illuminating winter’s darkest day with wonder and peace.

(828) 257-4530 wortham arts .org

EMMA LANGFORD

FRIDAY

JANUARY 12 at 8 PM

Writing songs imbued with the humor, vibrant imagery and drama of the rugged west coast of Ireland, this award-winning artist is fast becoming a household name and a firm fixture on the folk and songwriter scene. With storytelling and wit at the heart of all she does — tied together with an inimitable, dreamy voice — Emma’s music is “frothing with melodic charm and lyrical intrigue.” (Folk Radio UK)

(828) 257-4530 wortham arts .org

PARSONS DANCE

FRIDAY & SATURDAY

JANUARY 26 & 27 at 8 PM

As one of the world’s premier contemporary dance companies, this talented troupe showcases a dynamic fusion of styles that combines athleticism, grace and unparalleled innovation. Through endless creativity and self-expression, striking choreography and powerful music, Parsons Dance creates unforgettable performances that push the boundaries of dance and bring life-affirming artistry to audiences across the globe.

Connect with the art and artists in a dance workshop and pre-show discussions.

DRUM TAO 夢幻響

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY

FEBRUARY 13 & 14 at 7 PM

Experience the thrilling rhythms of Japan, the electrifying energy of passionate, percussive performance and the otherworldly theatrical flair of these professional taiko drummers. With vibrant costumes, synchronized movements and thunderous beats, Drum Tao creates a mesmerizing spectacle that’s sure to be an unforgettable evening of entertainment — delivering the spirit of traditional Japanese drumming with all the excitement of contemporary culture.

(828) 257-4530 wortham arts .org

THE COMEDY ZONE

FRIDAY & SATURDAY

OCTOBER 13 & 14

DECEMBER 1 & 2

JANUARY 19 & 20

FEBRUARY 23 & 24

at 7 PM & 9 PM

The nation’s largest comedy club network is back! After a popular run last season, this hilarious collective returns to bring top-notch comedians for four weekends of side-splitting laughter. Some of the hottest stand-up comedians of today — seen in specials on Comedy Central, HBO Comedy, Netflix, Hulu and more — deliver witty one-liners, preposterous punchlines and hysterical anecdotes that will keep you laughing all night long. Contains adult content.

(828) 257-4530 wortham arts .org

INDIAN INK presents MRS. KRISHNAN'S PARTY

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY

FEBRUARY 27 & 28 at 7 PM

You’re invited to Mrs. Krishnan’s party, an interactive theatre show that turns audience members into welcomed guests. Garlands decorate the ceiling, music flows, food simmers on the stove, laughter abounds and strangers become fast friends in this joyous celebration of life. No two nights are ever the same in this deliciously fun cross-cultural experience, as actors juggle cooking, music, guests and unfolding drama.

MARK AND MAGGIE O'CONNOR

FRIDAY

MARCH 8 at 8 PM

Get ready for a night of foot-stomping, heart-pounding music with this three-time Grammy-winner, seven-time Country Music Association award recipient and titled champion of multiple national fiddle, guitar and mandolin competitions. Performing with some of the biggest names in the industry, from Yo-Yo Ma to James Taylor, the distinguished multi-instrumentalist — joined for this show by his wife, Grammy awardwinning violinist Maggie O'Connor — blends the soulful traditions of bluegrass, country and folk with the virtuosic precision of classical music.

DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE

(828) 257-4530 wortham arts .org

CATHY LADMAN

SATURDAY

MARCH 16 at 8 PM

American Comedy Award

• Best Female Stand-Up Comic

Laugh out loud with one of the country’s top comedians, whose sharp wit, clever observations and relatable humor have earned her numerous accolades and multiple guest appearances on TV and film, including 10 sets on The Tonight Show alone. Sharing hilarious and personal stories that focus on family, growing up, relationships and more, Cathy delivers a performance that is both side-splittingly funny and thought-provoking.

PILOBOLUS RE: CREATION

FRIDAY & SATURDAY

MARCH 22 & 23 at 8 PM

Rediscover the joy of play and creativity with this highly acclaimed, returning fan-favorite company. Humor, happiness and hope abound in this rejuvenating program that takes Pilobolus into uncharted waters — which is exactly where this innovative company feels most at home.  Featuring fresh works with new collaborators, these talented dancers create an experience both timely and timeless, proving once again that the human body is the most expressive, universal and magical of media.

Connect with the art and artists in a dance workshop and pre-show discussions.

(828) 257-4530 wortham arts .org

360 ALL STARS

MARCH 27 at 7 PM

Feel the exhilarating energy of phenomenal physical performance with this international cast of world champion and world record-holding athletes and artists. A nonstop actionpacked urban circus, complete with dancing, beatboxing, acrobatics, BMX biking and more, this highly sought-after group — called “the most thrilling stage show ever” by Weekend Notes — is a spectacular fusion of the extraordinary artistry that emerges from street culture.

Connect with the artists in a community workshop.

DERVISH

FRIDAY

MARCH 29 at 8 PM

Journey to the heart of Ireland with one of the most respected and influential bands in the Celtic genre. With music that ranges from lively jigs and reels to haunting ballads, this critically acclaimed group, led by the impeccable vocals of Cathy Jordan, delivers heartfelt performances backed by exquisite musicianship, with songs that exude the joy of life. It’s no wonder this band has earned a reputation as one of the finest ambassadors of Irish music in the world.

IVY ROWE

from the Lee Smith novel Fair and Tender Ladies

FRIDAY

APRIL 12 at 7 PM

Pure theatrical exhilaration awaits in this off-Broadway, Edinburgh Fringe-approved hit, which follows a spunky mountain woman on a journey through life “livin’ on love.” Painting a vivid picture of 20th century revivals, mine disasters, rural electrification, the Depression and three wars, The New York Times dubbed this stirring stage adaptation “a rare and heartfelt performance that pays tribute to the women of Appalachia, and to the heroism of strugglers everywhere.”

LIZZY & THE TRIGGERMEN

SATURDAY

APRIL 13 at 8 PM

Dance and sway to “one of the hottest swing bands in LA” (Good Day LA), led by a “brassy and charismatic frontwoman” whose powerhouse vocals are “dripping with baditude” (New Times). Exuding all the old-school glamour of jazz, swing and blues, this captivatingly modern, chart-topping band churns out killer dance songs in a way only a wailing horn section can — transporting vintage jazz to a red-hot new future.

(828) 257-4530 wortham arts .org

STEP AFRIKA!

FRIDAY & SATURDAY

APRIL 19 & 20 at 7 PM

Feel the irresistible energy and heart-pounding rhythms of dance with the first professional dance company dedicated to the art of stepping. These multi-talented artists showcase a unique and vibrant form of dance that combines percussive footwork, call-and-response chants and high-energy performance — blending African American dance styles, traditional African dances and an array of contemporary dance and art forms into one cohesive, compelling artistic experience.

DIANA WORTHAM THEATRE

Connect with the art and artists in pre-show discussions.

ROBERT DUBAC’S STAND-UP JESUS

FRIDAY & SATURDAY

MAY 3 & 4 at 8 PM

Jesus of Nazareth returns after 2,000 years, but this time he’s no carpenter — he’s a stand-up comedian. Shining the light of truth on false prophets, duplicitous politicians and immoral sheeple, J.C.’s razor-sharp satire has been intelligently designed to redeem sinners of all faiths.  This season, the creator of The Book of Moron is back with his rare breed of humor, channeling what God created on the eighth day: comedy.

TINA Mc GUIRE THEATRE

BRUNCH WITH JESUS

SATURDAY & SUNDAY

MAY 4 & 5 at 11 AM

Break bread with Jesus during special brunch-and-a-show events on the Diana Wortham Theatre stage.

(828) 257-4530 wortham arts .org

STEWART/OWEN DANCE

THURSDAY-SATURDAY

MAY 9-11 and MAY 16-18 at 8 PM

SATURDAY & SUNDAY

MAY 11 & 12 and MAY 18 & 19 at 2 PM

Stunning audiences last season with imaginative and impassioned performances, Wortham’s resident dance company returns to share their latest creation, which draws on themes of passion, intimacy and playfulness. With an exciting collection of contemporary choreography that’s as “sensual” (Washington Post) as it is “humorous, elegant and wild” (Seattle Dances), this award-winning company, founded by a husband-and-wife duo, crafts intricate movements that offer a glimpse into the depths of the human spirit.

TINA Mc GUIRE THEATRE

30 (828) 257-4530 wortham arts .org

ALEX CUBA

MAY 24 at 8 PM

Infusing sanguine melodies with infectious Afro-Cuban rhythms, this Grammy-winning singer-songwriter combines the music of his home with jazz, funk, rock and pop to create a truly unparalleled sound. Alex takes apart complex cultural arrangements and mixes in soul-tinged hooks and catchy pop tempos, all while keeping the soulful simplicity of Cuban music alive. He’s always exploring, always creating something fresh and new — and always, it seems, getting it just right.

SPONSORS

THE WORTHAM CENTER GREATLY APPRECIATES THE SUPPORT PROVIDED BY THESE CORPORATE, BUSINESS, MEDIA AND INDIVIDUAL SPONSORS.

SEASON SPONSORS

CORPORATE & BUSINESS SERIES & PERFORMANCE SPONSORS

LEGACY SOCIETY SPONSORS

MEDIA SPONSORS

Special Thanks to our Preview Party Sponsor

INDIVIDUAL SERIES & PERFORMANCE SPONSORS

Joel & Marla Adams

Myles Alexander

Sherman Alfors & Stewart Kennedy

Craig Allen & Julie Cowden

Mary & Jack Anderson

Michael & Catty Andry

Diana Bilbrey

Deborah Bohan-Berkowitz

Dwight & Norma Bohm

Lucy & Kirk Borland

Steve & Linda Brown

Joe & Janice Brumit

Bill & Clarita Burton

Charles Clogston

Don & Nancy Ackermann Cole

Patty & Gary Coleman

Alberto Colonia & George Hunker

Bill Cosgrove & Margaret Davis

Lynne Courtney Diehl

Maggie & Daniel Durand

John & Marsha Ellis

Dr. Alan & Suzanne Escovitz

Dr. Bolling Farmer

Sue Fernbach & Jim Rishebarger

Hedy Fischer & Randy Shull

Craig & Jacqui Friedrich

Bill & Nancy Gettys

Jan & John Getz

James & Jill Gibson

Judith Hamill

Melissa & Jerry Harrelson

Peter Wortham Hawes

Richard & Francee Healy

George Hellyer & George Wagner

Steve & Rena Hoffman

Hardy Holland & John Moody

Dr. & Mrs. Stace Horine

Nancy Houha

Bill & Marilyn Hubbard

Ed & Vicki Jenest

Ann & Jon Kemske

MaryAnn Kiefer & David Erwin

James King & Jayne Cleveland

Mark Kleive & Nicole Groves

Henry LaBrun

Peter Laine & Constance Ensner

Jill & Joe Lawrence

Stephen & Barbara Lehrer

Joe & Mary Linville

Amy Loether

Janna & Rick Lutovsky

Jerry McAninch

Gail & Brian McCarthy

Chris & Mick McClung

Hugh & Carol McCollum

Todd & Renita McDougal

Chris & Sharlene McGraw

Tina McGuire

Anne McKenzie

Karen & Robert Milnes

Maureen O’Hallaron

Robert & Martha Pierce

Shelia Rains & Marjorie Sullivan

Ronna & Rob Resnick Charitable Trust

Carol & Michael Rosenblum

Ken & Betsy Schapira

Joe Scully & Vanessa Salomo

Brad & Margo Searson

Dr. Albert & Judith Siemens

The Stewart/Meredith Trust

Lou Ella & Bill Tucker

Elly Wells & Glen Locascio

Pamela Winkler

Dianne & David Worley

Hank Young

Lach & Jennifer Zemp

Robert Zieber

The performance by Trey McLaughlin & the Sounds of Zamar is funded in part by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the North Carolina Arts Council.

Sponsors as of date of publication.

LIGHTS UP ON LEARNING !

2023 / 2024 STUDENT SERIES

The Student Series sparks imagination, ignites curiosity and entertains thousands of kids each season with electrifying, curriculum-related performances by nationally touring artists.

Bring your K-12 classroom, homeschool group or family to a matinee at the Wortham Center and infuse your lessons with the power of live theatre.

Artrageous

Monday, September 25 10:00 a.m.

Lightwire Theater presents The Adventures of Tortoise and Hare: The Next Generation

Friday, October 6 10:00 a.m. & 12:00 p.m.

The Acting Company presents The Odyssey

Friday, October 20 10:00 a.m.

TheaterWorksUSA presents DOT DOT DOT: A New Musical

Wednesday & Thursday November 8 & 9 10:00 a.m. & 12:00 p.m.

Parsons Dance

Friday, January 26 10:00 a.m.

Drum Tao

Wednesday, February 14 10:00 a.m.

Pilobolus Re: Creation

Friday, March 22 10:00 a.m.

Step Afrika!

Friday, April 19 10:00 a.m.

TheaterWorksUSA presents Cat Kid Comic Club: The Musical

Monday & Tuesday, April 29 & 30 10:00 a.m. & 12:00 p.m.

Stewart/Owen Dance

Thursday, May 9 & May 16

10:00 a.m.

Tina McGuire Theatre

Sponsored by

(828) 257-4530 wortham arts .org

Huisking Foundation

Robert & Mercedes Eichholz Foundation

You can help ALL children:

 Laugh at Student Series performances

 Explore at Creative Arts Summer Camps

 Learn from visiting artists in their classroom

 Enjoy Free Play Days at Wortham

Your generosity ensures that ALL kids, regardless of their economic status, can learn and grow through the arts.

TAKE PART IN THE ART

ONGOING CLASSES

Get moving at weekly classes in dance, yoga and more for all ages and skill levels.

WORKSHOPS

Learn from nationally touring artists in pop-up workshops throughout the season.

PRE-SHOW DISCUSSIONS

Connect more deeply with the art and artists through complementary pre-show discussions.

SUMMER CAMPS

Play, explore and connect through the arts in week-long summer camps for kids. worthamarts.org/education

(828) 257-4530 wortham arts .org

GREAT FOR FAMILIES

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Watch video previews at worthamarts.org.

PURCHASE TICKETS

• In person at the box office during regular hours

• By phone: (828) 257-4530 x1

• Online: worthamarts.org

• Printable order form: worthamarts.org/order-form

BOX OFFICE HOURS

Tuesday–Friday 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Open one hour before performance times

TICKET EXCHANGE POLICY

Exchanges and account credits for Wortham Presents events are offered up to 48 hours in advance of the scheduled event. Comprehensive refund protection is available through Booking Protect.

DIRECTIONS AND PARKING

Visit worthamarts.org for parking maps, directions, accessibility and more.

SEASON TICKETS

Never miss a show! Purchase a season pass for 25% off. Can't make them all? Tickets are transferable.

TICKET PACKAGES

BEST SEATS

BEST PRICES

3+ shows - Save 10%

5+ shows - Save 15%

7+ shows - Save 20%

Full Season - Save 25%

Call the box office to learn about season ticket packages.

38 (828) 257-4530 wortham arts .org

2023/2024 SEASON AT A GLANCE

 ARTRAGEOUS Sat. Sept. 23, 7 p.m. • $42

 KATHY MATTEA Sat. Oct. 7, 8 p.m. • $52

 BLACK VIOLIN Thurs. Oct. 12, 7 p.m. • $58

 THE COMEDY ZONE Fri. & Sat. Oct. 13 & 14, 7 & 9 p.m. • $28

 THE ACTING COMPANY presents The Odyssey

Fri. Oct. 20, 8 p.m. • $52

 ANDREW FINN MAGILL Fri. Oct. 27, 8 p.m. • $42

 WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR: A Jazz Tribute to 100 Years of Disney

Thur. Nov. 2, 7 p.m. • $58

 TREY M c LAUGHLIN & THE SOUNDS OF ZAMAR

Sat. Nov. 11, 7 p.m. • $58

 THE COMEDY ZONE Fri. & Sat. Dec. 1 & 2, 7 & 9 p.m. • $28

 A SWANNANOA SOLSTICE Sun. Dec. 17, 2 & 7 p.m. • $58

 EMMA LANGFORD Fri. Jan. 12, 8 p.m. • $42

 THE COMEDY ZONE Fri. & Sat. Jan. 19 & 20, 7 & 9 p.m. • $28

 PARSONS DANCE Fri. & Sat. Jan. 26 & 27, 8 p.m. • $65

 DRUM TAO 夢幻響 Tues. & Wed. Feb. 13 & 14, 7 p.m. • $65

 THE COMEDY ZONE Fri. & Sat. Feb. 23 & 24, 7 & 9 p.m. • $28

 INDIAN INK presents MRS. KRISHNAN’S PARTY

Tues. & Wed. Feb. 27 & 28, 7 p.m. • $48

 MARK AND MAGGIE O’CONNOR

Fri. March 8, 8 p.m. • $42

 CATHY LADMAN Sat. March 16, 8 p.m. • $42

 PILOBOLUS — RE: CREATION

Fri. & Sat. March 22 & 23, 8 p.m. • $65

 360 ALL STARS Wed. March 27, 7 p.m. • $52

 DERVISH Fri. March 29, 8 p.m. • $42

 IVY ROWE from Fair and Tender Ladies

Fri. April 12, 7 p.m. • $32

 LIZZY & THE TRIGGERMEN Sat. April 13, 8 p.m. • $52

 STEP AFRIKA! Fri. & Sat. April 19 & 20, 7 p.m. • $65

 ROBERT DUBAC’S STAND-UP JESUS

Fri. & Sat. May 3 & 4, 8 p.m. • $32

 ROBERT DUBAC’S BRUNCH WITH JESUS

Sat. & Sun. May 4 & 5, 11 a.m. • $50

 STEWART/OWEN DANCE

Thurs.-Sat. May 9-11, 8 p.m. • $38

Sat. & Sun. May 11 & 12, 2 p.m. • $38

 STEWART/OWEN DANCE

Thurs.-Sat. May 16-18, 8 p.m. • $38

Sat. & Sun. May 18 & 19, 2 p.m. • $38

 ALEX CUBA Fri. May 24, 8 p.m. • $42

(828) 257-4530