news & updates

Mesa Arts Center is excited to announce the 2026-2027 Performing Live season featuring a dynamic lineup of concerts, comedy, immersive experiences and family-friendly events. Highlights include Roger Daltrey, Leslie Jones, Jazz at Lincoln Center with Wynton Marsalis, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone™ in Concert, Mickey Guyton and more.
A new Broadway Series features an exciting lineup including The Wiz, Mrs. Doubtfire, STOMP and Waitress. Season subscribers enjoy priority seating and the best ticket prices. The subscription series is on sale now at mesaartscenter.com/broadway.
The 20th Anniversary National Geographic Live Speaker Series continues with captivating programs including Wild Oceans, Wild Earth: Fangs & Fins, The Ghosts of Pompeii, Searching for the World's Largest Whale Gathering, Saving Nature's Symphony and Weird World of Frogs. Each presentation features stunning visuals, firsthand storytelling and groundbreaking science that brings audiences closer to the natural world. The subscription series is on sale now at mesaartscenter.com/natgeolive.
Classical Music Inside Out returns under the artistic direction of GRAMMY Award-winning cellist Zuill Bailey, featuring performances by Mark and Maggie O'Connor in celebration of America 250; acclaimed organist Paul Jacobs, performing at First United Methodist Church of Mesa in a rare and intimate setting; jazz pianist Fred Hersch, the dynamic Balourdet Quartet and the returning Galvin Cello Quartet. The subscription series is on sale now at mesaartscenter.com/cmio.
Films and series audiences love come to life through live music. From nostalgic classics to modern hits, his season features favorites like Ghostbusters, Twilight, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's StoneTM, Black Panther and Outlander.
Performing Live events are listed below in chronological order. Additional shows will be announced throughout the season. Tickets are on sale to Mesa Arts Center Ovation Society members now and go on sale to the public on Friday, May 8, at noon. Mesa Arts Center memberships start at $75. Become a member today and purchase tickets before they go on sale to the public.
To purchase tickets, please visit mesaartscenter.com or call the box office during business hours at 480-644-6500. Purchasing tickets through Mesa Arts Center is the best and most reliable way to receive the latest information on show schedules, seating options and all performance updates or changes while enjoying a seamless experience.
Performing Live 2026-2027:
The Circus Farm
July 12, 19 and 26, 2026
The Circus Farm returns! Escape the summer heat and join us for a family-friendly Mesa Arts Center experience. The day features a 60-minute air-conditioned family circus, with games, balloons, juggling, unicycle stunts, a hula hoop, LED lighted props, a giant robot and Aerial Lollipop. Also, be sure to come early to enjoy a pre-show experience hosted by MABEL (Mobile Arts-Based Engagement Lab)! MABEL is an adaptable and flexible creative space and pop-up arts center on wheels with activities meant to create connections on the spot, prompt discussion, catalyze change and spark creativity through the arts.
The Australian Pink Floyd Show: The Happiest Days of Our Lives
Aug. 16, 2026
Performing Pink Floyd's music with note-for-note perfection, this critically acclaimed show has been astonishing audiences worldwide for more than three decades. Always striving to reproduce the complete Pink Floyd experience and bring the music to new audiences, the show continues to feature a stunning light and laser show, video animations, state-of-the-art high-resolution LED screen technology and other special effects. In addition, and in true Pink Floyd fashion, there are several huge inflatables including a giant pig and their own unique Pink Kangaroo.
Roger Daltrey
Aug. 23, 2026
Roger Daltrey returns to the stage in 2026! A deeply personal show that blends The Who classics, rare gems and solo favorites from his extraordinary career. Backed by a semi-acoustic, rock-driven band, the performance offers a fresh, intimate take on iconic songs, alongside candid stories that give you an inside look into rock history. Exciting stories, setlist surprises and the same unmistakable voice, this is a rare opportunity to experience one of rock's most legendary performers in an up-close and personal setting.
A.J. Croce Presents Croce Plays Croce
Sept. 16, 2026
Acclaimed singer-songwriter, piano virtuoso and multi-instrumentalist A.J. Croce returns with his celebrated Croce Plays Croce Tour, delivering an unforgettable evening that bridges generations through timeless music and storytelling. Croce has earned acclaim as an electrifying performer with over twenty Billboard Top 40 hits spanning American roots, rock 'n' roll, blues, jazz, soul and world music. Son of the iconic Jim Croce, A.J. intentionally waited thirty years before performing his father's songs, launching this tour only when he could honor that legacy with depth and integrity. The show blends beloved classics like "Operator," "You Don't Mess Around with Jim," "Bad Bad Leroy Brown" and "Time in a Bottle" with A.J.'s own acclaimed originals, creating a moving, high-energy concert that continues to earn standing ovations and sell out venues nationwide.
Jos Gonzlez: Against the Dying of the Light Tour
Sept. 18,2026
Jos Gonzlez is in a class by himself. Hailed by Rolling Stone as "someone whose subtle, carefully crafted music delivers rewards to listeners who know how to wait," Gonzlez's stellar career can only be described as a dream. From selling out tours on virtually every continent to headlining prestigious festivals around the world to being asked to perform at 2020's Nobel Prize Award Ceremony and seeing his recorded music exceed 1 billion streams, Gonzlez is one of the most exciting and in-demand touring artists working today. Presented in partnership with Gate 52.
Leslie Jones: I'm Hot Tour
Sept. 19, 2026
Leslie Jones is a three-time Primetime Emmy Award nominee as well as a Writer's Guild Award and NAACP Award nominee for her work on "Saturday Night Live." She has also been honored as one of Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People. Jones recently wrapped production on season two of the HBO Max series "Our Flag Means Death." The week of Jan. 17, 2023, Jones kicked off a new era of "The Daily Show" as the program's first guest host. In 2021, she starred opposite Eddie Murphy in "Coming 2 America" for which she won an MTV Movie Award and was nominated for a People's Choice Award. Jones will next produce an untitled Christmas comedy for Lionsgate which she is currently developing as a potential future starring role. Additionally, Jones co-hosts the podcast THE FCKRY with comedian Lenny Marcus. Each week, Jones and Marcus interview guests and answer listener questions, while exposing "the fckry" of any given topic.
Get the Led Out
Sept. 24, 2026
From the bombastic and epic, to the folky and mystical, Get the Led Out (GTLO) have captured the essence of the recorded music of Led Zeppelin and brought it to the concert stage. The Philadelphia-based group consists of six veteran musician's intent on delivering Led Zeppelin live, like you've never heard before. Utilizing the multi-instrumentalists at their disposal, GTLO re-create the songs in all their depth and glory with the studio overdubs that Zeppelin themselves never performed. When you hear three guitars on the album...GTLO delivers three guitarists on stage. No wigs or fake English accents, GTLO brings what the audience wants...a high-energy Zeppelin concert with an honest, heart-thumping intensity.
Boz Scaggs
Sept. 26, 2026
Boz Scaggs is an American singer, songwriter and guitarist. An early bandmate of Steve Miller in The Ardells and the Steve Miller Band, he began his solo career in 1969, though he lacked a major hit until his 1976 album "Silk Degrees" peaked at number 2 on the Billboard 200, and produced the hit singles "Lido Shuffle" and "Lowdown." Scaggs produced two more platinum-certified albums in "Down Two Then Left" and "Middle Man," the latter of which produced two top-40 singles "Breakdown Dead Ahead" and "Jojo."
Ghostbusters in Concert
Sept. 30, 2026
Who you gonna call? Watch Ivan Reitman's beloved '80s sci-fi comedy classic on the big screen whilst Elmer Bernstein's famous score is performed live by a full orchestra conducted by Peter Bernstein. Garnering widespread acclaim, "Ghostbusters," written by Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis, earned nearly $300 million at the global box office and became a mega-pop culture phenomenon that endures four decades later. The film stars Aykroyd, Ramis, Bill Murray and Ernie Hudson as wisecracking parapsychologists who launch an ad-hoc ghost-catching start-up in New York City. The film will feature full original dialogue, which will also be subtitled.
Snarky Puppy
Oct. 7, 2026
Snarky Puppy, the five-time GRAMMY-winning collective, is a genre-defying band shaped by influences ranging from funk, R&B, soul, rock, gospel, fusion and jazz and is best experienced on its own terms. As bassist Michael League notes, the group's sound has expanded dramatically over time, evolving from a jazzier, more cerebral start into something groovier, more emotional and focused on communicating a clear message without "dumbing things down." Last year, Snarky Puppy reunited with the Metropole Orkest for an ambitious live collaboration recorded over three nights in Utrecht, resulting in "Somni," released in November 2025 via GroundUP Music. True to form, the band continues to push forward with each release, guided by a simple rule: it can't sound like it did before.
The Rush Tribute Project
Oct. 8, 2026
The RUSH Tribute Project (RTP) is a high-energy homage to one of rock's most enduring and influential bands, meticulously recreating the sound, spectacle and excitement of Rush's legendary live shows across the full 40+ year catalog. RTP is widely regarded as a premier tribute to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame power trio. Using vintage instruments, multi-camera projection and state-of-the-art lighting and lasers, the band delivers an immersive concert experience for casual listeners and devoted Rush fans alike, led by classically trained multi-instrumentalist Sean Jones (channeling Geddy Lee), award-winning guitarist Bill Heck and founding drummer Thomas Slawnik, whose kit and influences pay clear tribute to Neil Peart.
Presented in partnership with Emporium Presents.
Davide De Pierro
Oct. 16, 2026
Inspired by Davide De Pierro's newly released novel "The Letters I Never Sent," his live show blends personal storytelling, humor and audience conversation. Throughout the night, De Pierro will deliver a monologue and read selections from the book, followed by an open Q&A with the audience. Limited meet-and-greet opportunities will also be available for those who purchase in advance. Davide is a New Jersey native that has cultivated over 3M followers on TikTok and 2.7M followers on Instagram and has been earning millions of views online. Known for his commentary on relationships, finances and those relatable moments that capture the human experience, Davide is excited to be expanding into a fresh medium. Presented in partnership with Emporium Presents.
Eddie B.
Oct .17, 2026
Eddie B. soared to new heights with his series of comical videos titled "What Teachers Really Want to Say." In a matter of hours, those videos sparked the attention of educators all over the country when they realized that they were not alone and finally had someone to joke about the things they were reluctant to say out loud. Eddie B has established himself as the official voice of teachers across the globe with his uncensored, raw and hysterically realistic portrayal of a teacher's hectic life, from the point of view of an actual teacher! Presented in partnership with Gate 52.
John Scofield's Electrospective
Oct. 28, 2026
John Scofield's guitar work has influenced jazz since the late '70s and is going strong today. Possessor of a very distinctive sound and stylistic diversity, Scofield is a masterful jazz improviser whose music generally falls somewhere between post-bop, funk edged jazz and R&B. Scofield looks forward to teaming up with a stellar band of colleagues, Electrospective will rely on interpretative input from Scofield alum and super funk drummer/producer Adam Deitch (Lettuce), multidimensional Larry Goldings (Scary Goldings, James Taylor) on keyboards and legendary bassist Oteil Burbridge (Dead & CO., Tedeschi Trucks, Allman Brothers).
Theatre for the Very Young: Red
Oct. 30-Nov 8, 2026
Welcome to Red, an immersive dance performance for 12-36-month-olds and their families. Developed through creative research sessions with very young children, this performance explores the bold experience of toddlerhood through joyful chaos and rough-and-tumble play. Performers and audience members dance together, co-creating a world that is unequivocally Red. Red is brought to you by lead artists Amanda Pintore, Olivia Herneddo and Jisun Myung.
Jazz Funk Soul Crusaders Tribute
Featuring Lindsey Webster
Nov. 4, 2026
Omne trium perfectum- everything that comes in threes is perfect. When it comes to the trio Jazz Funk Soul, this statement rings true. Saxophonist Everette Harp, keyboardist Jeff Lorber and guitarist Paul Jackson Jr. are the perfect union of balance and harmony, the right ebb and flow of laid back cool and gritty-driving intensity and the complete package of musical wonder.
Lizzy & The Triggermen
Nov. 14, 2026
Swing into the night with Lizzy & the Triggermen, the 10-piece jazz band hailed as "one of the hottest swing bands in LA." With old-school glamour and a modern twist, they channel the spirit of Basie and Ellington while infusing their music with a sound and swagger all their own. As NPR raves, they are "one part Eartha Kitt, one part Ella Fitzgerald, one part Amy Winehouse." Sophisticated, stylish and irresistibly fun, this big band is guaranteed to get the joint jumping.
Undertale: The Determination Symphony
Nov. 14, 2026
Undertale: The Determination Symphony is an unforgettable concert experience featuring the most memorable themes from the hit indie game, newly arranged and performed live by a 25-piece orchestra. With gameplay footage displayed on a screen above the stage, audiences will be fully immersed in the world of Undertale, experiencing its story and music like never before.
Outlander in Concert
Nov. 15, 2026
For longtime "Outlander" fans, these words feel like home. As the global phenomenon reaches its conclusion in 2026, its heart continues to beat on stage with Outlander in Concert. The officially licensed live concert experience was created in collaboration with its showrunner Matthew B. Roberts and original Emmy Award-winning composer Bear McCreary. This symphonic experience guides audiences through love and loss, past and future, Scotland and beyond. The iconic score by Bear McCreary takes centerstage, performed live by an orchestra, while the series' most stirring moments unfold on a cinema-sized screen.
An Evening of Alton Brown
Nov. 17, 2026
Although he's keeping the details under wraps, Brown has said that with An Evening of Alton Brown he's "stirring up some twists on his greatest hits," and "spicing things up with new demonstrations, music and slightly scaled-down mayhem." No matter what, An Evening of Alton Brown will present Brown as you've never seen him - unless, of course, you've been invited to his house. Best known for creating and hosting groundbreaking television such as "Good Eats," "Iron Chef America," "Cutthroat Kitchen" and "Food Network Star," Brown has also built one of the most successful culinary touring franchises ever, performing live in more than 300 cities for well over half a million fans. Presented in partnership with MagicSpace Entertainment.
The Fab Four: The Ultimate Beatles Tribute
A Hard Day's Night and The Hits
Nov. 27, 2026
If you want to experience the best Beatles tribute ever, you won't want to miss The Fab Four - The Ultimate Tribute. Their 2026 tour brings an all-new show to the stage, celebrating the diamond anniversary of the Beatles' first feature film, "A Hard Day's Night." This spectacular performance features the iconic soundtrack, along with the Beatles' greatest hits from every era of their career. The Emmy Award-winning Fab Four are elevated far above every other Beatles tribute due to their precise attention to detail. With uncanny, note-for-note live renditions of classics such as "A Hard Day's Night," "Can't Buy Me Love," "And I Love Her," "If I Fell," "Yesterday" and "Hey Jude," The Fab Four will make you think you are watching the real thing. Presented in partnership with Emporium Presents.
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis
Nov 28-29, 2026
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America's favorite holiday tradition for over 40 years! GRAMMY Award-winner Chip Davis has created a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics in the distinctive Mannheim sound. The program includes 15 musicians playing more than 20 instruments against a backdrop of dazzling multimedia effects - capturing the spirit of the season in an immersive yet intimate setting.
Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass Band
Dec. 6, 2026
2025 marked the 60th anniversary of the iconic album, "Whipped Cream & Other Delights" as well as 39 straight sold-out concerts! Herb and his new Tijuana brass will be performing many of those great songs on, "Whipped Cream & Other Delights" in addition to many other wonderful hit songs that we all know and love: "The Lonely Bull," "Spanish Flea," "A Taste of Honey," "Mexican Shuffle" and many more.
Dave Koz & Friends Christmas 2026 Tour
Dec. 16, 2026
Dave Koz & Friends continue their annual holiday tradition at Mesa Arts Center! With nine GRAMMY nominations, nine No. 1 albums on Billboard's Current Contemporary Jazz Albums chart and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, saxophonist Dave Koz has maintained a commitment to celebrating the magic of the holiday season like few other artists of his genre or generation.
GENTRI Christmas
Dec. 18, 2026
Billboard #1 tenor trio GENTRI returns with their most spectacular Christmas concert yet. Known for their signature cinematic sound and breathtaking three-part harmonies, GENTRI brings the magic of Christmas to life in an unforgettable evening of classic and contemporary holiday favorites. Presented in partnership with MagicSpace Entertainment.
Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
Dec. 19, 2026
Experience the magic of the season with Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland! This dazzling spectacle blends breathtaking acrobatics, gravity-defying aerial feats and beloved holiday music for an unforgettable celebration. Featuring the incredible talents of the Cirque Musica ensemble, this show is a perfect family event filled with wonder, joy and festive spirit. Don't miss your chance to create cherished holiday memories in this enchanting winter extravaganza. Presented in partnership with Gate 52.
Mickey Guyton & Friends Holiday
Dec. 21, 2026
Mickey Guyton is a four-time, GRAMMY-nominated artist and country music trailblazer. Over the course of her career, Mickey has been recognized for her musical achievements, including being named TIME Magazine's Breakthrough Artist of the Year in 2022 and CMT's Breakout Artist of the Year in 2021. With her debut studio album, "Remember Her Name," Mickey made history as the first Black artist to earn a GRAMMY nomination for Best Country Album.
Josh Gates Live!
An Evening of Legends, Mysteries and Tales of Adventure
Jan. 8, 2027
Adventurer, television personality and author Josh Gates is the host and executive producer of the smash-hit Discovery Channel series, "Expedition Unknown." The show follows Gates as he sets out on a global journey to explore archaeological discoveries, historic mysteries and scientific breakthroughs. Josh immerses himself in each story, conducting his own investigations, showcasing the work of dedicated explorers while also highlighting vibrant cultures and fascinating destinations. Armed with a degree in archaeology, a quick wit and a hunger for adventure, Gates travels to some of the most remote corners of the planet in immersive, hilarious and thrilling journeys. Presented in partnership with Gate 52.
Pink Martini
Jan. 21, 2027
Featuring the irresistible mlange of classic big band pop and Hollywood glamour, Pink Martini's mission of multicultural musical connection continues to charm audiences of all ages in its 32nd year of bringing its genre- and border-defying musical adventure to fans on six continents. Presented in partnership with Gate 52.
Professor Brian Cox: Emergence
Jan. 28, 2027
After performing his smash hit show Horizons for nearly half a million people worldwide, Professor Brian Cox returns with his new world tour, Emergence. Over the past 15 years, he has fronted acclaimed BBC science programs including the Peabody Award-winning "Wonders of the Solar System" and the global hit series "The Planets." Cox calls Emergence his most ambitious live show yet, created with a team of scientists, musicians, filmmakers and graphic artists to bring cosmology, biology, philosophy and history to life on massive LED screens with immersive sound and lighting, offering an all-encompassing experience designed to leave audiences with something new to think about.
Jesse Cook
Jan. 29, 2027
A career spanning 25 years has brought this Canadian guitarist multiple accolades including a coveted Acoustic Guitar Magazine Player's Choice Silver Award, 11 Juno Award nominations (he won for 2001's "Free Fall"), a Gemini Award and, most impressively, 10 platinum and gold studio albums. Since launching his career with 1995's Tempest, Cook has blazed an incredible trail. Along with being a global-guitar virtuoso, he's honed his skills as a composer, producer, arranger, performer and, more recently, filmmaker and cultural ambassador. Presented in partnership with Emporium Presents.
KODO: Luminance
Feb. 9, 2027
Exploring the limitless possibilities of the traditional Japanese drum, the taiko, Kodo is forging new directions for a vibrant living art-form. In Japanese, the word "Kodo" conveys two meanings: firstly, "heartbeat," the primal source of all rhythm. Secondly, read in a different way, the word can mean "children of the drum," a reflection of Kodo's desire to play the drums simply, with the heart of a child.
Black Panther in Concert
Feb. 12, 2027
Marvel Studios, Disney Concerts and AMP Worldwide presents Black Panther Live-To-Film-Concert on tour, featuring Ludwig Gransson's Oscar -winning score performed by a unique on-stage ensemble, including talking drum, African percussion, ethnic flute and Indigenous instruments.
An Evening with Itzhak Perlman
Feb. 13, 2027
An Evening with Itzhak Perlman is a continuation of his acclaimed multimedia program. Discover more about the legendary "man behind the music" in this program curated by Tony Award-winning director Dan Sullivan and produced by Elliott Forrest, which interweaves storytelling by Perlman with personal photos, clips from the GRAMMY-nominated Itzhak documentary and music-making with his longtime pianist and friend, Rohan De Silva.
Ballet Folklrico de Mxico de Amalia Hernndez
Feb. 19, 2027
For over seven decades, Amalia Hernndez's Ballet Folklrico de Mxico has positioned itself as the most emblematic folkloric dance ensemble in Mexico and around the world. Founded in 1952 by the dancer and choreographer Amalia Hernndez, the Ballet Folklrico de Mxico revolutionized the concept of traditional dance and transformed the history of Mexican dance, laying the groundwork and setting the tone for thousands of dance troupes in Mexico and abroad with the characteristic seal of its creator.
Jazz at Lincoln Center with Wynton Marsalis
Feb. 27, 2027
With the world-renowned Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and guest artists spanning genres and generations, Jazz at Lincoln Center produces thousands of performances, education and broadcast events each season in its home in New York City (Frederick P. Rose Hall, "The House of Swing") and around the world, for people of all ages. Jazz at Lincoln Center is led by Chairman Clarence Otis, Managing and Artistic Director Wynton Marsalis and Executive Director Greg Scholl. This performance is part of Wynton Marsalis' final season as Artistic Director of Jazz at Lincoln Center and Music Director of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.
All Things Equal: The Life & Trials of Ruth Bader Ginsburg
March 5-6, 2027
Written by Tony Award-winning playwright Rupert Holmes
Starring Michelle Azar as Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Directed by Laley Lippard
Supreme Court Justice "RBG" welcomes a friend of the family to her cozy chambers to convey, over the course of 90 fascinating and often funny minutes, a sense of her life and its many trials. An evening with a great and compassionate icon of straight-thinking American justice. Bring your scrunchies, your hankies, your humor and your heart to this entertaining and uplifting event!
A Day of Bigfoot with Dr. Mireya Mayor, Russell Acord and Cliff Barackman
March 7, 2027
Join the stars of Discovery Channel's hit show "Expedition Bigfoot" for a thrilling night of legend, lore and the untamed wild! National Geographic explorer and primatologist, Dr. Mireya Mayor, Army veteran and survival expert, Russell Acord and bigfoot field researcher, museum curator and former host of Animal Planet's "Finding Bigfoot," Cliff Barackman come together on stage to share highlights from six seasons combing North America and meeting with experts to search for the elusive beast.
Twilight in Concert
March 16, 2027
Experience the legendary romance saga with this epic film-to-concert event - featuring the original movie accompanied by a sensational live band on stage and an enchanting candlelit atmosphere. Twilight in Concert offers a unique opportunity for fans to relive the story that started it all in a cinematic live experience like no other. An exceptional 12-piece ensemble of outstanding rock and orchestral musicians will take the stage to perform the beloved film score in perfect synchronization with the original movie, presented in its entirety on a full-size cinema screen. Be captivated by the magical atmosphere as over a thousand twinkling candles illuminate the grand stage, creating an ambiance that sets the stage for a truly romantic journey. Presented in partnership with Gate 52.
Native Rhythms, Native Jazz: The Genre-Bending Journey of R. Carlos
March 18, 2027
Amidst the vast tapestry of American music, few collaborations illustrate the spirit of genre-bending innovation as vividly as that of R. Carlos Nakai, AmoChip Dabney and Will Clipman. At the crossroads of Native American flute, jazz, world percussion and contemporary soundscapes, these three musicians have crafted a sonic journey that blurs the lines between tradition and modernity, weaving stories that speak to the heart and stir the soul.
Simply Three: Unclassical
April 2, 2027
Simply Three: Unclassical is the rock concert you never saw coming, performed entirely on violin, cello and bass. Classically trained and conservatory-honed, this virtuosic trio shatters expectations by turning strings into a percussive, high-voltage rock experience. From explosive anthems to soaring cinematic ballads, they deliver the adrenaline of a modern rock show with the beauty and intimacy of chamber music.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone™ in Concert
April 10-11, 2027
Relive the film that started it all. Watch the wand choose the wizard, a troll run amok and magic mirrors in high-definition while a live orchestra performs John Williams' iconic score. Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime event as Harry, Ron, Hermione and all your favorite characters return to the screen and enchant the world all over again. All characters and elements & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights JKR.
Stanley Clarke & Hiromi Featuring PUBLIQuartet
April 16, 2027
NEA Jazz Master and four-time GRAMMY Award-winning bassist Stanley Clarke teams with frequent collaborator and innovative pianist Hiromi to pay tribute to Chick Corea in a new program of Corea works and original compositions inspired by the late, great pianist.
Broadway Series:
Four show package:
The Wiz, Mrs. Doubtfire, STOMP and Waitress
Subscription pricing starts at $212.85
Member subscription pricing starts at $201.04
Three show package:
The Wiz, Mrs. Doubtfire and STOMP
Subscription pricing starts at $158.40
Member subscription pricing starts at $149.61
The Wiz
Nov. 20-22, 2026
The Tony Award-winning Best Musical that took the world by storm is back. The Wiz returns "home" to stages across America in an all-new tour, direct from Broadway. This groundbreaking twist on "The Wizard of Oz" changed the face of Broadway - from its iconic score packed with soul, gospel, rock and '70s funk to its stirring tale of Dorothy's journey to find her place in a contemporary world. Everybody rejoice - this dynamite infusion of ballet, jazz and modern pop brings a whole new groove to easing on down the road!
Mrs. Doubtfire
Feb. 5-7, 2027
A musical comedy about the things we do to stay together. Daniel Hillard, a struggling, out-of-work actor, will do anything for his kids. After losing custody in a messy divorce, he creates the kindly alter ego of Scottish nanny Euphegenia Doubtfire in a desperate attempt to stay in their lives. As his new character takes on a life of its own, Mrs. Doubtfire teaches Daniel more than he bargained for about how to be a father. A hilarious and heartfelt story about holding onto your loved ones against all odds, MRS. DOUBTFIRE is the musical comedy we need right now - one that proves we're better together.
STOMP
March 12-14, 2027
Matchboxes, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters and more fill the stage with energizing beats at STOMP: the inventive and invigorating stage show that's dance, music and theatrical performance blended together in one electrifying rhythm.
Waitress
May 21-23, 2027
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.
20th Anniversary National Geographic Live Series:
Subscription pricing starts at $163.65
Member subscription pricing starts at $154
Wild Oceans, Wild Earth: Fangs & Fins with Sylvia Earle and Steve Winter
Oct. 14, 2026
Join her deepness Sylvia Earle and National Geographic Photographer Steve Winter, as they explore how to protect the nature world from two extremes: from the unseen depths to our own backyards. Join Sylvia on a journey into the deep sea, and discover how each of us plays a part in protecting the unseen migrations of sharks, whales, squid and everything in between. Then saddle up with Steve Winter and discover how communities across California are rallying behind America's big cat, the Mountain Lion. Join this dynamic pair for a conversation about wildlife, and the role each of us plays in protecting nature, near and far.
The Ghosts of Pompeii with Caitie Barrett
Nov. 18, 2026
Even thousands of years after its demise, the Roman Empire captivates us, and the ancient city of Pompeii is the place to understand it all. Volcanic ash created an unparalleled glimpse into the lives of ancient people who lived, worked and played in this coastal city. We go on assignment with archaeologist Caitie Barrett to the latest dig sites to uncover new stories that still lie buried in this special place.
Searching for the World's Largest Whale Gathering with Bertie Gregory
Feb. 17, 2027
Bertie Gregory, National Geographic explorer and award-winning filmmaker, takes the audience to the ends of the world in search of arguably the greatest gathering of wildlife on earth. Join him on his decade-long quest to document one of Antarctica's best kept secrets - the largest gathering of fin whales anywhere on the planet. Come along for an epic adventure to the icy seventh continent and into the treacherous seas that surround it. You're sure to come away excited and inspired by the natural world and your role in it.
Saving Nature's Symphony with Ben Mirin
March 24, 2027
The world is alive with sound, and acoustic biologist and National Geographic Explorer Ben Mirin makes sure we never miss a beat. From the sweet songs of morning birds to the chatter of howling lemurs to the conversation of whales, we'll go on assignment on an auditory adventure. We'll tune in to wildlife symphonies, discover what those voices tell us about our planet and transform that science into music.
Weird World of Frogs with Jodi Rowley
April 14, 2027
Bright colors and captivating calls are just the start with some of Earth's most amazing species. Frogs can turn nearly invisible, leap more than 20 times their body length and defend themselves with poison. We go on assignment with National Geographic Explorer Jodi Rowley to discover all kinds of incredible abilities and springy biodiversity.
Classical Music Inside Out Series
Subscription pricing starts at $168.32
Member subscription pricing starts at $158.40
Classical Music Inside Out is under the artistic direction of GRAMMY Award-winning Cellist Zuill Bailey. Zuill Bailey is underwritten by Bill Passey and Maria Silva.
Mark and Maggie O'Connor's America 250
Oct. 29, 2026
Experience an evening of virtuosic string playing with Mark and Maggie O'Connor. Mark O'Connor, a three-time GRAMMY winner has redefined string music by blending classical, jazz and bluegrass influences into a distinct American sound. Performing alongside his wife, violinist Maggie O'Connor, the duo brings to life Mark's original compositions and arrangements. From dazzling fiddle tunes to soul-stirring duets, their performance showcases the depth of American string traditions and the innovation of O'Connor's signature style.
Paul Jacobs
Feb. 11, 2027 | First United Methodist Church of Mesa
Heralded as "one of the finest organists and teachers of our day," by The New York Times and as "America's leading organ performer" by The Economist, the internationally celebrated organist Paul Jacobs combines a probing intellect and extraordinary technical mastery with an unusually large repertoire, both old and new. The only organist ever to have won a GRAMMY Award, Jacobs is an eloquent champion of his instrument.
Fred Hersch
March 4, 2027
A member of jazz's piano pantheon, Fred Hersch has been an influential creative force over more than three decades as an improviser, composer, educator, bandleader, collaborator, and recording artist. He has been proclaimed "the most arrestingly innovative pianist in jazz over the last decade" by Vanity Fair and "a living legend" by The New Yorker. A seventeen-time GRAMMY nominee, Hersch has garnered jazz's most prestigious awards, including a Doris Duke Artist (2016), Jazz Pianist of the Year from the Jazz Journalists Association (2011, 2016, 2018) and the Jazz Magazine (France) International Artist of the Year (2021).
Balourdet Quartet
March 25, 2027
The Balourdet Quartet is acclaimed for their vibrant energy and masterful blend of technical precision and emotional depth that brings a fresh perspective to both beloved classics and modern compositions. Its unique closeness and willingness to take creative risks earned it the 2024 Avery Fisher Career Grant, as well as Chamber Music America's 2024 Cleveland Quartet Award.
Angela Bae, violin | Justin DeFilippis, violin | Benjamin Zannoni, viola | Russell Houston, cello
Galvin Cello Quartet
April 8, 2027
The Galvin Cello Quartet returns! Exploring the limitless range of a cello ensemble by bringing together new works from diverse cultural backgrounds, Galvin Cello Quartet dazzles audiences with the cello's limitless capabilities. With their untamable desire to create, change and ultimately bring joy through music, the Galvin Cello Quartet is incredibly excited to make the undeniable case that the cello quartet belongs at the center of the expressive lexicon for chamber music.
James Baik | Sydney Lee | Luiz Fernando Venturelli | Haddon Kay
To purchase tickets, please visit mesaartscenter.com or call the box office during business hours at 480-644-6500.
About Mesa Arts Center
Mesa Arts Center, owned and operated by the City of Mesa, is a unique, architecturally stunning facility located in the heart of downtown Mesa. Arizona's largest arts center is home to four theaters, five art galleries and 14 art studios. Guests, patrons and students come to Mesa Arts Center to enjoy the finest live entertainment and performances, world-class visual art exhibitions and outstanding arts education classes. Mesa Arts Center's mission is to create meaningful arts experiences in Mesa for everyone. For more information, visit mesaartscenter.com.