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2008-2009 New Season Announcement

Watch & Learn
Michael Kaiser
Watch the Full Season Announcement

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Kennedy Center President Michael M. Kaiser held a press conference to describe many of the exciting highlights that will make up the 2008-2009 performance season. View a list of all performances announced below. Programs and artists subject to change.

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Prelude 2008: Arts Across America

Reminder Event Detail Cast & Companies
Broadway: Three Generations Opening Concert
The Kennedy Center celebrates three generations of Broadway songwriters with star-filled evenings combining abridged versions of three representative musical classics: Girl Crazy, Fiddler on the Roof, and Side Show.
 
2008 Marian Anderson Award Recital: Indira Mahajan, soprano Mar 25, 2008 at 7:30 PM
A 1988 Oberlin graduate, soprano Indira Mahajan is the recipient of the 2008 grant for American singers in mid-career. She's trained at the New School's Mannes College of Music and performed as a soloist with Washington National Opera.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
 
7th Annual Page-to-Stage Festival Aug 30 - Sep 1, 2008
An annual showcase for new plays and musicals, Page-to-Stage hosts free readings and open rehearsals to give you a glimpse of Washington's new theater season.
 
Dancing Under the Stars Aug 30 - Sep 27, 2008
Enjoy live music and dancing under the stars when some of the finest local dance orchestras take to the South Plaza Stage: Eric Felton (8/30); Savoy-Doucet Cajun Band (9/6); the Godfather of Go-Go, Chuck Brown (9/13); salsa powerhouse Bio Ritmo (9/27).
 
World Premiere Concert of "105 Voices of History Choir" Sep 7, 2008 at 6:00 PM
This world premiere features the "105 Voices of History" National Choir, which includes one singer from each of the nation's 105 Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
 
Roadhouse Sep 8 - 29, 2008
Four evenings highlight American social dance: polka with Karl & The Country Dutchmen (9/8); blues pianist Pinetop Perkins and the Nighthawks (9/15); accordionist Mingo Saldivar (9/22); stringband musicians The Carolina Chocolate Drops (9/29).
 
Nights at the Movies: Classical Hollywood Sep 11, 2008 at 8:00 PM
Conductor/host Richard Kaufman leads movie music accompanied by images. In "Classical Hollywood," enjoy Disney's Sleeping Beauty, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Raging Bull, Alien, The Godfather, Forrest Gump, and more.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
 
Nights at the Movies: The Golden Age of Film Music Sep 12, 2008 at 8:00 PM
Conductor/host Richard Kaufman leads movie music accompanied by images. In this concert, enjoy selections from Lawrence of Arabia, Spartacus, Gone with the Wind, The Magnificent Seven, The Wizard of Oz, and more.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
 
Kennedy Center's 24th Annual Open House Arts Festival Sep 13, 2008 at 12:00 PM
"American Stories, Songs, and Steps" is this year's theme for the Kennedy Center's 24th annual free day of fun for everyone in the family, featuring innovative American performing artists.
 
the break/s Sep 18 - 20, 2008

(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
 
Arlo Guthrie with the NSO Pops/John Nardolillo, conductor Sep 18, 2008 at 8:00 PM
American folk singer Arlo Guthrie joins the NSO Pops for a one-night-only concert event, as part of the Kennedy Center's Arts Across America celebration.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
 
Mos Def
Produced by Jill Newman Productions
Sep 21, 2008 at 7:00 PM
Artist Mos Def explores hip hop, jazz, and soul with his band, drawing from original compositions and material by Miles Davis, Beyoncé, James Brown, and Gil Scott-Heron, among others.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
 
Blanche and Beyond Starring Richard Thomas Sep 24 - 26, 2008
Adapted by Steve Lawson from the personal letters of Tennessee Williams, this one-man show starring Richard Thomas delves into the life of one of America's great playwrights.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
 
Linda Eder Sings Judy Garland/Marvin Hamlisch, conductor Sep 25 - 27, 2008
Broadway veteran Linda Eder sings the legendary songs of Judy Garland in a program led by Principal Pops Conductor Marvin Hamlisch.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
Marvin Hamlisch
Kevin Mahogany's Kansas City Revue Sep 26, 2008
Award-winning vocalist and Kansas City native Kevin Mahogany presents his Kansas City Revue with the Godfathers of Groove and vocalist Kathy Kosins, moving through R&B, boogie woogie, blues, and jazz.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
Kevin Mahogany
Preservation Hall Jazz Band & Blind Boys of Alabama: "Down by the Riverside" Sep 28, 2008 at 7:00 PM
New Orleans' legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band and vocal titans the Blind Boys of Alabama join forces to present "Down by the Riverside," combining jazz and gospel hymns.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
 
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Broadway: The Third Generation

Reminder Event Detail Cast & Companies
Broadway: Three Generations Opening Concert
The Kennedy Center celebrates three generations of Broadway songwriters with star-filled evenings combining abridged versions of three representative musical classics: Girl Crazy, Fiddler on the Roof, and Side Show.
 
Giant, in collaboration with Signature Theatre: Fund for New American Plays
Helen Hayes Award–winning Signature Theatre performs this new musical by Michael John LaChiusa based on Edna Ferber's classic story of a Texas family's rise to the pinnacle of society in the early days of oil wildcatting.
 
Ragtime
The Kennedy Center presents an all-new production of Ragtime, the Tony-winning musical based on an E.L. Doctorow novel that intertwines three distinct families' stories in turn-of-the-century New York.
 
12th Anniversary of Millennium Stage Jan 31, 2009 at 6:00 PM
The Kennedy Center presents a free concert celebrating the third generation of Broadway composers, hosted by Stephen Schwartz and featuring Scott Frankel, Michael Korie, Jeanine Tesori, Stephen Flaherty, Lynn Ahrens, and more.
 
Spring Awakening Jul 7 - Aug 2, 2009
Winner of eight 2007 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Spring Awakening makes its D.C. premiere featuring an original score by Grammy-nominated recording star Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater.
(On Sale 4/10/2009 )
 
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Theater

Reminder Event Detail Cast & Companies
Broadway: Three Generations Opening Concert
The Kennedy Center celebrates three generations of Broadway songwriters with star-filled evenings combining abridged versions of three representative musical classics: Girl Crazy, Fiddler on the Roof, and Side Show.
 
Frost/Nixon
This Tony-nominated play starring Stacy Keach recounts one of the most powerful television interviews of all time. How did British talk-show host David Frost elicit the apology the rest of the world was waiting to hear from former President Richard Nixon?
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Giant, in collaboration with Signature Theatre: Fund for New American Plays
Helen Hayes Award–winning Signature Theatre performs this new musical by Michael John LaChiusa based on Edna Ferber's classic story of a Texas family's rise to the pinnacle of society in the early days of oil wildcatting.
 
Legally Blonde the Musical
Nominated for seven 2007 Tony Awards, Legally Blonde makes its D.C. premiere. Sorority star Elle Woods doesn't take "no" for an answer. So when her boyfriend dumps her, Elle sets out to go where no Delta Nu has gone before: Harvard Law.
(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
 
Ragtime
The Kennedy Center presents an all-new production of Ragtime, the Tony-winning musical based on an E.L. Doctorow novel that intertwines three distinct families' stories in turn-of-the-century New York.
 
Barbara Cook's Spotlight: "Opposite You" Jason Danieley & Marin Mazzie
Celebrating ten years together, Broadway's golden couple performs in this theater cabaret performance series curated by Broadway legend Barbara Cook.
 
Barbara Cook's Spotlight: "An Evening with Liz Callaway"
Tony nominee Liz Callaway (Baby) performs in this theater cabaret performance series curated by Broadway legend Barbara Cook.
(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
 
Barbara Cook's Spotlight: "Fifteen Seconds of Grace" Victoria Clark
Tony winner Victoria Clark (The Light in the Piazza) performs in this theater cabaret performance series curated by Broadway legend Barbara Cook.
(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
 
Barbara Cook's Spotlight: "Quintessence: An Evening with Betty Buckley and Kenny Werner"
Tony winner Betty Buckley (Cats) performs in this theater cabaret performance series curated by Broadway legend Barbara Cook.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Barbara Cook's Spotlight: Rebecca Luker
Tony nominee Rebecca Luker (Mary Poppins) performs in this theater cabaret performance series curated by Broadway legend Barbara Cook.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Druid: The Shadow of the Glen & The Playboy of the Western World
Galway, Ireland's internationally acclaimed award-winning Druid theater company presents two of Irish playwright John Millington Synge's greatest works.
 
Blanche and Beyond Starring Richard Thomas Sep 24 - 26, 2008
Adapted by Steve Lawson from the personal letters of Tennessee Williams, this one-man show starring Richard Thomas delves into the life of one of America's great playwrights.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
 
The Color Purple Jul 1 - Aug 2, 2009
Based on the Pulitzer Prize–winning book by Alice Walker, this soul-stirring Broadway musical is an inspiring family saga that tells the unforgettable story of a woman who--through love--finds the strength to triumph over adversity.
 
Spring Awakening Jul 7 - Aug 2, 2009
Winner of eight 2007 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Spring Awakening makes its D.C. premiere featuring an original score by Grammy-nominated recording star Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater.
(On Sale 4/10/2009 )
 
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Arabesque: Arts of the Arab World

Reminder Event Detail Cast & Companies
Alive from Palestine: Stories Under Occupation
More information to come.
 
Khamsoun ("Fifty")
More information to come.

 
Richard III: An Arab Tragedy
More information to come.

 
Barakat: An Evening of Sacred Music
More information to come.

 
Caracalla Dance Theater
More information to come.

 
Leila Haddad
More information to come.

 
Marcel Khalifé and the Al Mayadine Ensemble
More information to come.

 
Simon Shaheen's Golden Age of Arab Music
More information to come.

 
Whirling Dervishes of Damascus
More information to come.

 
Khalid Benghrib Dance Company Feb 24, 2009 at 7:30 PM
Moroccan choreographer Khalid Benghrib leads his all-male contemporary dance company in its American premiere. Part of Arabesque: Arts of the Arab World.
 
Cie La Baraka Mar 3, 2009 at 7:30 PM
Compagnie La Baraka makes its D.C. premiere under the artistic direction of choreographer Abou Lagraa, fusing hip-hop, contemporary dance, and multimedia visuals to stunning effect. Part of Arabesque: Arts of the Arab World.

 
Karima Mansour & MA'AT Mar 4, 2009 at 7:30 PM
Egyptian dancer and choreographer Karima Mansour makes her North American premiere. "Mansour's drive and enthusiasm, her unyielding energy, are infectious" (Al-Ahram). Part of Arabesque: Arts of the Arab World.

 
Compagnie THOR Mar 10 - 11, 2009
Belgium's Compagnie Thor makes its DC debut with Artistic Director and choreographer Thierry Smits's D'Orient, born out of his passion for the Middle East. Part of Arabesque: Arts of the Arab World.
 
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NSO Classical Concerts

Reminder Event Detail Cast & Companies
Nights at the Movies: Classical Hollywood Sep 11, 2008 at 8:00 PM
Conductor/host Richard Kaufman leads movie music accompanied by images. In "Classical Hollywood," enjoy Disney's Sleeping Beauty, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Raging Bull, Alien, The Godfather, Forrest Gump, and more.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
 
Nights at the Movies: The Golden Age of Film Music Sep 12, 2008 at 8:00 PM
Conductor/host Richard Kaufman leads movie music accompanied by images. In this concert, enjoy selections from Lawrence of Arabia, Spartacus, Gone with the Wind, The Magnificent Seven, The Wizard of Oz, and more.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
 
Season Opening Ball Concert Sep 20, 2008 at 7:00 PM
Itzhak Perlman conducts a concert featuring viola virtuoso Pinchas Zukerman and rising star cellist Alisa Weilerstein. For more information on tickets to the Season Opening Ball, call (202) 416-8102.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
Itzhak Perlman
Miguel Harth-Bedoya, conductor/Hélène Grimaud, piano, performs Beethoven Oct 2 - 4, 2008
"Hélène Grimaud is a fine pianist, both sensitive and passionate," says the New York Times. She makes her NSO debut in Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 4. Miguel Harth-Bedoya also conducts Shostakovich's Symphony No. 5.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Iván Fischer, conductor/Mahler's Symphony No. 3 Oct 16 - 18, 2008
NSO Principal Conductor Iván Fischer leads Mahler's masterful Symphony No. 3. The Philadelphia Enquirer says he "conducts with a boldness… warm, distinctly pliant sounds."
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Iván Fischer
Iván Fischer, conductor/Steven Isserlis, cello, performs Haydn Oct 23 - 25, 2008
"Steve Isserlis is the cello's best ambassador," says The Times of London. He makes his NSO debut in Haydn's Cello Concerto in C major led by NSO Principal Conductor Iván Fischer. The program also includes Rachmaninoff's Symphony No. 2.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Iván Fischer
Iván Fischer, conductor/All-Wagner Program Oct 30 - Nov 1, 2008
NSO Principal Conductor Iván Fischer leads an all-Wagner program featuring selections from Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, Götterdämmerung, Tristan und Isolde, and Die Walküre.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Iván Fischer
Michael Christie, conductor/Jennifer Koh, violin, performs Bernstein Nov 13 - 15, 2008
Violinist Jennifer Koh performs Bernstein's Serenade. In his NSO debut, conductor Michael Christie also leads two masterpieces by Stravinsky.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Yakov Kreizberg, conductor/Lars Vogt, piano, performs Mozart Nov 20 - 22, 2008
Lars Vogt makes his NSO debut in Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 20. Conductor Yakov Kreizberg also leads works by Dvo?ák and Schmidt.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Itzhak Perlman, conductor & violin/Bach, Mozart, & Tchaikovsky Dec 4 - 6, 2008
Itzhak Perlman – who exhibits "playing of great honesty" (Los Angeles Times) – performs J. S. Bach's Violin Concerto in A minor. He also conducts Mozart's "Haffner" Symphony and Tchaikovsky's "Pathétique" Symphony.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Itzhak Perlman
Handel's Messiah Dec 18 - 21, 2008
Get in the holiday spirit with Handel's epic masterpiece, performed each year with a fresh perspective by the NSO and acclaimed guest artists.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Christine Brandes
Philippe Jordan, conductor/Lynn Harrell, cello, performs Schumann Jan 8 - 10, 2009
Lynn Harrell performs Schumann's Cello Concerto. Philippe Jordan, in his NSO debut, also conducts Prokofiev's Classical Symphony and Beethoven's Symphony No. 4.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Lynn Harrell
Ilan Volkov, conductor/Leif Ove Andsnes, piano, performs Rachmaninoff Jan 15 - 17, 2009
In his NSO debut, Leif Ove Andsnes performs Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 3. The New York Times says his "elegant pianism… has plenty of sparkle and vigor." Ilan Volkov also conducts works by Stravinsky and Crumb.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Ilan Volkov
Emmanuel Krivine, conductor/Yundi Li, piano, performs Ravel Jan 22 - 24, 2009
Yundi Li performs Ravel's Piano Concerto in G major conducted by Emmanuel Krivine. Also on the program: Berlioz's Symphonie fantastique.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Yundi Li
André Previn, conductor/Anne-Sophie Mutter, violin, performs Mozart Jan 31, 2009 at 8:00 PM
Two German virtuoso musicians – Kennedy Center Honoree André Previn and "superbly gifted" (The New York Times) violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter - join forces for this one-night-only concert event.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
André Previn
Iván Fischer, conductor/Bartók & Dvorák Feb 5 - 7, 2009
NSO Principal Conductor Iván Fischer leads a program featuring Bartók's Concerto for Orchestra and Dvorák's Symphony No. 7.
(On Sale 12/11/2008 )
Iván Fischer
Charles Dutoit, conductor/Yuja Wang, piano, performs Prokofiev Feb 19 - 21, 2009
Charles Dutoit – praised for his "keenly propulsive conducting" by the New York Times – leads the Orchestra in Prokofiev's Piano Concerto No. 2 featuring the NSO debut of Yuja Wang. The program also includes Stravinksy's The Firebird.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Xian Zhang, conductor/Gil Shaham, violin, performs Stravinsky Feb 26 - 28, 2009
Gil Shaham performs Stravinsky's Violin Concerto. In her NSO debut, Xian Zhang also conducts the Divertimento from Stravinsky's The Fairy's Kiss as well as works by Adès and Weill.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Gil Shaham
Herbert Blomstedt, conductor/Jonathan Biss, piano, performs Mozart Mar 19 - 21, 2009
Jonathan Biss performs Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 27. Conducted by Herbert Blomstedt, the program also includes Bruckner's Symphony No. 9.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Nights at the Movies: Buster Keaton's The General Apr 4, 2009 at 8:00 PM
Watch the entire classic silent film with the score performed live by the NSO and acclaimed organist Dennis James.
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
 
Kurt Masur, conductor/All-Brahms Program Apr 9 - 11, 2009
The Times of London says "Kurt Masur has extraordinary joie de vivre." With the NSO, he conducts two classics by Brahms: Haydn-Variations and Ein deutsches Requiem.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Iván Fischer, conductor/Leonidas Kavakos, violin, performs Mendelssohn (Thu. & Sat.) & Tchaikovsky (Fri.) Apr 16 - 18, 2009
NSO Principal Conductor Iván Fischer leads a new work by Daniel Kellogg plus Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 4. Leonidas Kavakos also performs Violin Concertos by Mendelssohn (Thu. & Sat.) and Tchaikovsky (Fri.).
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Iván Fischer Iván Fischer
David Zinman, conductor/Brahms's Symphony No. 4 Apr 23 - 25, 2009
London's The Guardian says "David Zinman has a scrupulous but luxurious touch." With the NSO, he conducts Brahms's Symphony No. 4, Webern's Langsamer Satz, and Schoenberg's Verklärte Nacht.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
David Zinman
Helmuth Rilling, conductor/Haydn's The Creation Apr 30 - May 2, 2009
Helmuth Rilling conducts Haydn's The Creation featuring acclaimed vocal soloists and the University of Maryland Concert Choir.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Oliver Knussen, conductor/Leila Josefowicz, violin, performs Knussen May 7 - 9, 2009
As part of Contemporary Music Week, Oliver Knussen leads a program that includes his own Violin Concerto. The work features Leila Josefowicz, who the Chicago Sun-Times says "plays with a zest and fiery personality."
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Leila Josefowicz
Jun Märkl, conductor/Garrick Ohlsson, piano, performs Mozart May 14 - 16, 2009
Garrick Ohlsson performs Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 25. In his NSO debut, Jun Märkl also conducts two works by Schumann: Konzertstück for 4 Horns and the "Spring" Symphony.

(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Nights at the Movies: A Night on the Red Carpet May 21, 2009 at 8:00 PM
Conductor/host Richard Kaufman leads movie music accompanied by images. In this concert, enjoy selections from Oscar-winning movies including Ben Hur, Casablanca, Dr. Zhivago, Out of Africa, and more.
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
 
Mikko Franck, conductor/Karita Mattila, soprano, performs Richard Strauss Jun 25 - 27, 2009
Soprano Karita Mattila "is a powerful presence… in a class of her own" says the Los Angeles Times. She makes her NSO debut in a program conducted by Mikko Franck that includes Richard Strauss's Drei Hymnen and Eine Alpensinfonie.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
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NSO Pops Concerts

Reminder Event Detail Cast & Companies
Arlo Guthrie with the NSO Pops/John Nardolillo, conductor Sep 18, 2008 at 8:00 PM
American folk singer Arlo Guthrie joins the NSO Pops for a one-night-only concert event, as part of the Kennedy Center's Arts Across America celebration.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
 
Linda Eder Sings Judy Garland/Marvin Hamlisch, conductor Sep 25 - 27, 2008
Broadway veteran Linda Eder sings the legendary songs of Judy Garland in a program led by Principal Pops Conductor Marvin Hamlisch.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
Marvin Hamlisch
An Evening with The Jazz Ambassadors/Marvin Hamlisch, conductor Nov 28 - 29, 2008
As part of "Jazz in DC," The Jazz Ambassadors Army Field Band joins the NSO Pops over Thanksgiving weekend for a rousing program that will include the music of Duke Ellington, Dr. Billy Taylor, and James Reese Europe.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Marvin Hamlisch
Happy Holidays!: Marvin Hamlisch, conductor Dec 11 - 14, 2008
Make the holidays the most wonderful time of the year with this annual NSO Pops tradition featuring a visit from Santa Claus and acclaimed guest artists.
(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
Marvin Hamlisch
Be My Valentine Feb 12 - 14, 2009
Chocolates are sweet… kisses are better… but a romantic rendezvous with the NSO Pops is an absolute dream! Join us for a very special Valentine's weekend concert. Program and artists to be announced at a later date.
(On Sale 12/11/2008 )
 
Jerry Herman's Broadway/Donald Pippin, conductor Mar 12 - 14, 2009
Enjoy favorite songs from such legendary shows as Hello, Dolly!, La Cage aux Folles, Mame, Mack and Mabel, and Milk and Honey.
(On Sale 12/11/2008 )
 
The Temptations/Marvin Hamlisch, conductor May 28 - 30, 2009
Now in their fifth decade, Motown sensations The Temptations close out the NSO Pops season with a thrilling concert led by Principal Pops Conductor Marvin Hamlisch.

(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
Marvin Hamlisch
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Contemporary Music Week

Reminder Event Detail Cast & Companies
Composer Spotlight: Lera Auerbach May 1, 2009 at 7:30 PM
Continuing in the tradition of great 19th and 20th-century pianist/composers, Auerbach is one of the most widely performed composers of the new generation. She performs a program of her works with cellist Alisa Weilerstein and mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke.
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
 
Composer Spotlight: Bruce Adolphe May 2, 2009 at 7:30 PM
Composer Bruce Adolphe's chamber music, symphonies, film scores, and song cycles have been performed all over the world. This concert, a selection of his chamber works, features some of today's exciting musicians and the Center debut of the Apollo Trio.
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
 
Composer Spotlight: Joan Tower May 4, 2009 at 7:30 PM
Sophisticated and technically demanding--yet extremely approachable--composer Joan Tower's music is often personally inspired. Tower on piano is joined first by her frequent collaborators the Muir Quartet and then the Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio.
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
 
Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio and Miami String Quartet May 5, 2009 at 7:30 PM
These two world-renowned ensembles return for a program with works by Boccherini and Dvorák, as well as the D.C. premiere of a new piano septet written for them by Ellen Taaffe Zwilich in recognition of Contemporary Music Week.
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
Joseph Kalichstein
The Nash Ensemble of London May 6, 2009 at 7:30 PM
The Nash Ensemble of London boasts an eclectic repertoire, from the classics to the contemporary. They perform a program that was chosen by British composer and conductor Oliver Knussen, the curator of the Kennedy Center's Contemporary Music Week.
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
 
Oliver Knussen, conductor/Leila Josefowicz, violin, performs Knussen May 7 - 9, 2009
As part of Contemporary Music Week, Oliver Knussen leads a program that includes his own Violin Concerto. The work features Leila Josefowicz, who the Chicago Sun-Times says "plays with a zest and fiery personality."
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Leila Josefowicz
National Symphony Orchestra chamber ensemble: Oliver Knussen, conductor/Contemporary Music Program May 10, 2009 at 7:30 PM
British conductor Oliver Knussen leads a chamber ensemble of NSO musicians as part of the Kennedy Center's Contemporary Music Week. The program includes Knussen's Requiem - Songs for Sue featuring soprano Claire Booth.
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
 
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Fortas Chamber Music Concerts

Reminder Event Detail Cast & Companies
Concertante Oct 8, 2008 at 7:30 PM
Comprised of six core virtuoso string players who are all alumni of The Juilliard School, Concertante performs a program dedicated to string sextets by Martinu, Dvorák, and Tchaikovsky.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Claremont Trio Oct 30, 2008 at 7:30 PM
Comprised of twin string musicians Emily and Julia Bruskin and pianist Donna Kwong--their colleague from The Juilliard School--the trio plays a program featuring a world premiere by Nico Muhly and works by Smetana and Schubert.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Emerson String Quartet Nov 5, 2008 at 7:30 PM
Two seasons ago, the Emersons performed Shostakovich's first eight string quartets, enrapturing Fortas audiences. They return to perform Shostakovich's remaining string quartets, Nos. 9-12 (Nov. 5) and Nos. 13-15 (Nov. 6).
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Emerson String Quartet Nov 6, 2008 at 7:30 PM
Two seasons ago, the Emersons performed Shostakovich's first eight string quartets, enrapturing Fortas audiences. They return to perform Shostakovich's remaining string quartets, Nos. 9-12 (Nov. 5) and Nos. 13-15 (Nov. 6).
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Perlman-Schmidt-Bailey Trio Nov 12, 2008 at 7:30 PM
For their second Fortas appearance, this acclaimed trio--pianist Navah Perlman, cellist Zuill Bailey, and violinist Giora Schmidt--lends its energetic performance style to works by Beethoven, Schoenfield, and Schubert.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Juilliard String Quartet Dec 5, 2008 at 7:30 PM
The ever-evolving institution that is the Juilliard String Quartet has become a living American legend. It makes its Fortas debut with Mendelssohn's Quartet in E-flat major, Dutilleux's Ainsi la Nuit, and Ravel's Quartet in F major.
(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
 
Augustin Hadelich, violin Jan 25, 2009 at 7:30 PM
A Juilliard graduate, Augustin Hadelich has established himself as an eloquent, versatile, and unique voice among the new generation of violinists. He's joined by pianist Robert Kulek for works by Beethoven, Brahms, Bright Sheng, and Bartók.
(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
 
Guarneri String Quartet: Farewell Tour - Final Concert in Washington Feb 10, 2009 at 7:30 PM
After 45 years as one of the world's most revered quartets, the Guarneri embark upon their final tour. For their last DC concert, they play Beethoven's String Quartet in A minor and, with original cellist David Soyer, Schubert's Cello Quintet in C major.
(On Sale 12/11/2008 )
 
The Hilliard Ensemble Feb 12, 2009 at 7:30 PM
One of the world's foremost vocal groups, this British a cappella quartet makes its Kennedy Center debut, bringing its ensemble virtuosity to bear on great works of the Medieval, Renaissance, and contemporary periods.
(On Sale 12/11/2008 )
 
Harolyn Blackwell, soprano, with Post-Classical Ensemble Mar 1, 2009 at 7:30 PM
One of the brightest stars on stage today, soprano and D.C. native Harolyn Blackwell is joined by Post-Classical Ensemble, self-dubbed as "more than an orchestra," for a unique program of chamber music with roots from Europe's Iberian Peninsula.
(On Sale 12/11/2008 )
 
Composer Spotlight: Lera Auerbach May 1, 2009 at 7:30 PM
Continuing in the tradition of great 19th and 20th-century pianist/composers, Auerbach is one of the most widely performed composers of the new generation. She performs a program of her works with cellist Alisa Weilerstein and mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke.
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
 
Composer Spotlight: Bruce Adolphe May 2, 2009 at 7:30 PM
Composer Bruce Adolphe's chamber music, symphonies, film scores, and song cycles have been performed all over the world. This concert, a selection of his chamber works, features some of today's exciting musicians and the Center debut of the Apollo Trio.
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
 
Composer Spotlight: Joan Tower May 4, 2009 at 7:30 PM
Sophisticated and technically demanding--yet extremely approachable--composer Joan Tower's music is often personally inspired. Tower on piano is joined first by her frequent collaborators the Muir Quartet and then the Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio.
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
 
Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio and Miami String Quartet May 5, 2009 at 7:30 PM
These two world-renowned ensembles return for a program with works by Boccherini and Dvorák, as well as the D.C. premiere of a new piano septet written for them by Ellen Taaffe Zwilich in recognition of Contemporary Music Week.
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
Joseph Kalichstein
The Nash Ensemble of London May 6, 2009 at 7:30 PM
The Nash Ensemble of London boasts an eclectic repertoire, from the classics to the contemporary. They perform a program that was chosen by British composer and conductor Oliver Knussen, the curator of the Kennedy Center's Contemporary Music Week.
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
 
National Symphony Orchestra chamber ensemble: Oliver Knussen, conductor/Contemporary Music Program May 10, 2009 at 7:30 PM
British conductor Oliver Knussen leads a chamber ensemble of NSO musicians as part of the Kennedy Center's Contemporary Music Week. The program includes Knussen's Requiem - Songs for Sue featuring soprano Claire Booth.
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
 
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The Kennedy Center Chamber Players

Reminder Event Detail Cast & Companies
The Kennedy Center Chamber Players perform Shostakovich & Beethoven Oct 5, 2008 at 2:00 PM
The Players perform Shostakovich's Piano Trio No. 1, Beethoven's Serenade in D major for String Trio, and Shostakovich's Piano Quintet in G major.

(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Lambert Orkis Natasha Bogachek David Hardy Daniel Foster Nurit Bar-Josef
The Kennedy Center Chamber Players perform Dvorák, Britten, and Brahms Jan 18, 2009 at 2:00 PM
The program includes Dvorák's Terzetto in C major for Two Violins and Viola; Britten's Phantasy Quartet for Oboe, Violin, Viola, and Cello; and Brahms's String Sextet No. 2 in G major.

(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
Tsuna Sakamoto Ricardo Cyncynates David Hardy Daniel Foster Nurit Bar-Josef James Lee
The Kennedy Center Chamber Players: All-Beethoven Marathon, Part I Feb 15, 2009 at 2:00 PM
Don't miss the first concert in this two-part all-Beethoven marathon featuring all of his chamber works for Cello and Piano.
(On Sale 12/11/2008 )
Lambert Orkis David Hardy
The Kennedy Center Chamber Players: All-Beethoven Marathon, Part II Feb 15, 2009 at 4:30 PM
Don't miss the second concert in this two-part all-Beethoven marathon featuring all of his chamber works for Cello and Piano.
(On Sale 12/11/2009 )
 
The Kennedy Center Chamber Players perform Mozart & Messiaen Jun 28, 2009 at 2:00 PM
The Players perform Mozart's String Quintet No. 2 K.515 and Messiaen's Quatuor pour la Fin du Temps.
(On Sale 4/10/2009 )
 
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Ballet

Reminder Event Detail Cast & Companies
The Suzanne Farrell Ballet Oct 8 - 12, 2008
One of "the most courageous projects in ballet today" (New York Times), The Suzanne Farrell Ballet performs two Balanchine programs: Episodes with Ballet Austin, Ragtime, and Liebeslieder Walzer, plus "The Balanchine Couple."
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Suzanne Farrell The Suzanne Farrell Ballet
San Francisco Ballet Nov 25 - 30, 2008
Over Thanksgiving week, the renowned company celebrates its 75th anniversary with Artistic Director Helgi Tomasson's full-length Giselle and a mixed repertory program.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
San Francisco Ballet
The Joffrey Ballet: The Nutcracker Dec 11 - 14, 2008
The Joffrey dancers perform a "dazzling" (The Chicago Sun-Times) version of Tchaikovsky's family classic, featuring charming Victorian scenery and costumes.
(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
The Joffrey Ballet
Kirov Ballet Jan 13 - 18, 2009
St. Petersburg's magnificent company returns with the full-length Don Quixote, Petipa's delightful interpretation of Cervantes's tale of romance, chivalry, and bittersweet emotion.
(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
Kirov Ballet
American Ballet Theatre Feb 17 - 22, 2009
ABT's tremendous stars perform Petipa's full-length Swan Lake, plus a program of mixed repertory featuring works by Balanchine, Tudor, and Tharp.
(On Sale 12/11/2008 )
American Ballet Theatre
New York City Ballet Mar 4 - 8, 2009
The acclaimed company, renowned for its purity, balance, and musicality, performs three mixed repertory programs featuring works by Balanchine, Robbins, and Tharp to music performed by the New York City Ballet Orchestra.
(On Sale 12/11/2008 )
New York City Ballet
Bolshoi Ballet Jun 16 - 21, 2009
Moscow's great company performs the exclusive North American performances of Artistic Director Alexei Ratmansky's re-staging of Petipa's full-length Le Corsaire, called "grand" and "luscious" by London's The Independent.
(On Sale 4/10/2009 )
Bolshoi Ballet
The Royal Ballet Jun 23 - 28, 2009
London's acclaimed company presents MacMillan's Manon and a mixed repertory program with works by Ashton, Wheeldon, and McGregor.
(On Sale 4/10/2009 )
Royal Ballet
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Contemporary Dance

Reminder Event Detail Cast & Companies
Bangarra Dance Theatre Oct 16 - 17, 2008
This dynamic company, renowned for its fusion of Australian indigenous culture with gestures of modern dance, brings one of its newest works, Awakenings.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Bangarra Dance Theatre
Shen Wei Dance Arts Oct 29 - 30, 2008
This resident company of the Kennedy Center presents acclaimed works Map and Re-, fusing dance, theater, painting, sculpture, and Western and Eastern cultures, as part of Modern Masters, the Center's celebration of American modern dance.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Shen Wei Dance Arts
Martha Graham Dance Company Dec 9 - 10, 2008
America's oldest contemporary dance company returns to perform Graham's full-length Clytemnestra with live orchestra as part of Modern Masters, the Center's celebration of American modern dance.
(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
Martha Graham Dance Company
Merce Cunningham Dance Company Dec 12 - 13, 2008
The Kennedy Center Honoree and legendary choreographer returns with his company for a program of DC premieres of Cunningham repertory--eyeSpace, Crises, XOVER--as part of Modern Masters, the Center's celebration of American modern dance.
(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
Merce Cunningham Dance Company
Limón Dance Company Jan 16 - 17, 2009
Marking the 100th anniversary of Limón's birth, the company presents a program of his seminal works--The Traitor, Psalm, Suite from A Choreographic Offering--as part of Modern Masters, the Center's celebration of American modern dance.
(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
 
Mark Morris Dance Group Jan 29 - 31, 2009
Returning to the Kennedy Center for the first time since 1985, the groundbreaking company performs Mozart Dances with live orchestra as part of Modern Masters, the Center's celebration of American modern dance.
(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
 
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Feb 3 - 8, 2009
This globally renowned company celebrates its 50th anniversary with a collection of classics plus their highly anticipated new collaboration with Sweet Honey In The Rock as part of Modern Masters, the Center's celebration of American modern dance.
(On Sale 12/11/2008 )
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Khalid Benghrib Dance Company Feb 24, 2009 at 7:30 PM
Moroccan choreographer Khalid Benghrib leads his all-male contemporary dance company in its American premiere. Part of Arabesque: Arts of the Arab World.
 
Karima Mansour & MA'AT Mar 4, 2009 at 7:30 PM
Egyptian dancer and choreographer Karima Mansour makes her North American premiere. "Mansour's drive and enthusiasm, her unyielding energy, are infectious" (Al-Ahram). Part of Arabesque: Arts of the Arab World.

 
Compagnie THOR Mar 10 - 11, 2009
Belgium's Compagnie Thor makes its DC debut with Artistic Director and choreographer Thierry Smits's D'Orient, born out of his passion for the Middle East. Part of Arabesque: Arts of the Arab World.
 
Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company Mar 24 - 25, 2009
This eloquent company, known for its choreographic infusion of energy and dynamic technical virtuosity, performs their new full-length work The Quarrelling Pair as part of Modern Masters, the Center's celebration of American modern dance.
(On Sale 12/11/2008 )
 
Paul Taylor Dance Company Mar 27 - 28, 2009
The company returns to perform a program chosen by Taylor: two new works, De Sueños and De Sueños que se Repiten, as well as Mercuric Tidings as part of Modern Masters, the Center's celebration of American modern dance.
(On Sale 12/11/2008 )
Paul Taylor Dance Company
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Jazz

Reminder Event Detail Cast & Companies
"Dedicated to You": Kurt Elling in a John Coltrane/Johnny Hartman Tribute
Kurt Elling brings Ernie Watts and the Ethel String Quartet aboard for "Dedicated to You," Elling's creative re-imagining of John Coltrane's collaboration with "romantic balladeer" Johnny Hartman.
(On Sale 12/11/2008 )
 
"Keys to New Orleans": Allen Toussaint, Henry Butler, Jon Cleary
"The Keys to New Orleans" features three Crescent City music legends--Allen Toussaint, Henry Butler, and Jon Cleary--joining forces for a spectacular tribute to the Big Easy.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
A Jazz New Year's Eve
Ring in the New Year in style with a sizzling late-night jazz performance by today's leading jazz artists.
(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
 
Ellington Voices: Classical to Jazz with Nnenna Freelon and Harolyn Blackwell
Vocalists Freelon and Blackwell explore the intersection of classical music and jazz through the musical genius of Duke Ellington in this world premiere Kennedy Center–commissioned concert.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
Nnenna Freelon
Mary Lou Williams Women in Jazz Festival - 14th annual
The festival marks its 14th thrilling year with three evenings of star-studded performances featuring the world's top female jazz artists.
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
 
Benny Golson at 80
The Kennedy Center salutes the 60-year career of award-winning saxophonist and NEA Jazz Master Benny Golson in a concert with appearances by the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, Al Jarreau, Ron Carter, Bill Cosby, and others.
(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
 
Dan Tepfer
Critics have called New York-based pianist/composer Dan Tepfer "brilliant" (Boston Globe) and "one of tomorrow's jazz stars" (Eugene Weekly). He was recently named the 2007 Cole Porter Fellow in Jazz of the American Pianists Association.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Hank Jones Trio with Roberta Gambarini
"One doesn't turn to Hank Jones for innovation or surprise but rather for highly polished, state-of-the-art mainstream jazz piano" (All About Jazz). To celebrate the 90th year of his birth, he's joined by renowned vocalist Roberta Gambarini.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Javon Jackson with Les McCann: "Swiss Movement Revisited"
Saxophonist Javon Jackson and pianist Les McCann come together to perform in a concert that revisits McCann's 1969 hit album Swiss Movement, recently re-released by Rhino/Atlantic.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
NPR's A Jazz Piano Christmas
Join the Kennedy Center and National Public Radio for this annual treat when top jazz pianists and other artists perform their favorite holiday songs.
(On Sale 10/10/2008 )
 
Roger Kellaway: "Tribute to Oscar Peterson"
Roger Kellaway "is a rare pianist with the technical command and historical knowledge to recreate a portion of Oscar Peterson's ‘power, clarity, musicality, and will to swing,' all while sounding like himself" (JazzTimes).
(On Sale 2/12/2009 )
 
Mos Def
Produced by Jill Newman Productions
Sep 21, 2008 at 7:00 PM
Artist Mos Def explores hip hop, jazz, and soul with his band, drawing from original compositions and material by Miles Davis, Beyoncé, James Brown, and Gil Scott-Heron, among others.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
 
Kevin Mahogany's Kansas City Revue Sep 26, 2008
Award-winning vocalist and Kansas City native Kevin Mahogany presents his Kansas City Revue with the Godfathers of Groove and vocalist Kathy Kosins, moving through R&B, boogie woogie, blues, and jazz.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
Kevin Mahogany
Preservation Hall Jazz Band & Blind Boys of Alabama: "Down by the Riverside" Sep 28, 2008 at 7:00 PM
New Orleans' legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band and vocal titans the Blind Boys of Alabama join forces to present "Down by the Riverside," combining jazz and gospel hymns.
(On Sale 6/12/2008 )
 
Jeremy Pelt Quintet Oct 3, 2008
Trumpeter Jeremy Pelt has been lauded for his tone, which "strikes a warm balance between brightness and suffusion" (All About Jazz), and has been voted Rising Star on the trumpet five years in a row by DownBeat Magazine.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Grady Tate Oct 4, 2008
A member of Howard University's faculty, drummer/vocalist Grady Tate was a member of Johnny Carson's Tonight Show band for six years.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Terri Lyne Carrington Quartet Oct 18, 2008
A world-renowned drummer, composer, and producer, Terri Lyne Carrington is no stranger to the spotlight, having been a mainstay in the industry for more than 20 years.
(On Sale 8/11/2008 )
 
Allan Harris: "Cry of th