Wharton Center for Performing Arts has officially announced its 2026–2027 Performing Arts Season, and it is one Greater Lansing families will not want to miss.
Celebrating its 45th anniversary, this upcoming season brings an exciting mix of world-renowned performers, Broadway favorites, family-friendly shows, and meaningful connections to the local community.
We recently had the chance to learn more about the season from Executive Director Eric Olmscheid, and it is clear this lineup was thoughtfully curated with something for everyone!
✨ A Season That Honors the Past and Looks Ahead
“As we launch our 45th anniversary season, the lineup reflects both where we’ve been and where we’re going,” shared Olmscheid.
This season features globally recognized artists alongside emerging voices, all bringing the very best of the performing arts right here to East Lansing.
Even better, there are several meaningful Michigan connections woven throughout the season, making it feel even more special for our local community!
🌟 Season Highlights You’ll Want on Your Calendar
There is so much to look forward to, but here are just a few standout performances:
- An Evening with Sutton Foster (Oct 3, 2026), featuring the Broadway star alongside Michigan students
- Yo-Yo Ma & Emanuel Ax (Dec 8, 2026), a must-see for classical music lovers
- Dance Theatre of Harlem (Feb 17, 2027)
- Richard Thomas in Mark Twain Tonight! (May 6, 2027)
- Endea Owens & The Cookout (Oct 9, 2026), featuring an MSU alum
🎶 Something for Everyone
The 2026–2027 season is beautifully diverse, offering a wide range of performances across multiple genres:
🎭 Variety & Theatre
- A Midsummer Night’s Dream
- The Fourth Witch
- Ana Gasteyer: Sugar & Booze
🎻 Classical
- Berlin Philharmonic Brass
- Midori & Festival Strings Lucerne
- Avi Avital & Ksenija Sidorova
💃 Dance
- Ballets Jazz Montréal
- Ballet Folklórico de México
- Dance Theatre of Harlem
🎷 Jazz
- Count Basie Orchestra with Carmen Bradford
- Emmet Cohen Trio
Family-Friendly Favorites
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If you are looking for something to do with your kids, the Act One Family Series is always a favorite:
- What Do You Do With a Problem?
- Three Little Pigs and Other Tales
- The Boy Who Cried Wolf
Some performances even offer sensory-friendly options, making the arts more accessible for all families.
💚 Why We Love This for Greater Lansing
There is something really special about having access to this level of talent right here in our community. Whether you are planning a night out, looking for something new to experience, or making memories with your kids, Wharton Center continues to bring it all to Greater Lansing!
✨ Take a look at the lineup, start planning your favorites, and make this your season to get out and enjoy the arts.
🎟️ CLICK HERE to get your tickets!
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