Natalie Bohnet, executive director of UApresents, announced UApresents 2008-09 season on Monday at Centennial Hall on The University of Arizona campus.
The 35-show season includes legends and innovators in classical, dance, jazz, blues, world music and programs for families.
The season opens Oct. 3 with a soulful, horn-fueled evening of classic Motown hits featuring legendary vocalist Mary Wilson of the Supremes and the original Motown band, The Funk Brothers.
“Many months of planning and meetings, thousands of e-mails and hundreds of phone calls are made to research and complete the process of putting together a UApresents season,” Bohnet said. “I am grateful to all the people who have collaborated on this palette of fine programs.”
The season continues with violin virtuosos Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg and Gil Shaham and the rare appearance of two top dance companies within one season, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and the Joffrey Ballet.
UApresents also will welcome soul and blues icon Etta James, vocalist k.d. lang, Broadway stars Patti LuPone and Mandy Patinkin and a special return engagement of STOMP.
The season offers Cuban rhythms, Indian masters, a Celtic celebration, an African spectacular and extraordinary Chinese acrobats.
Most events stage at Centennial Hall with one performance at Crowder Hall and Stevie Eller Dance Theatre. Ticket sales began on April 21 for current subscribers.
New subscription sales begin May 19 and individual ticket sales begin on June 16. Subscription packages and savings begin by purchasing just four performances.
Education and outreach has always been a hallmark of UApresents’ mission to serve the community. Unique among Arizona presenting organizations, in 2008-09 UApresents offers:
Jonathan Holden
520-440-4455