MIAC announces dazzling season of fresh talent and familiar stars
Get ready for another season of world-class performances as the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture returns with an electrifying lineup that spans genres, generations, and global influences. From legendary musicians and Broadway luminaries to awe-inspiring dance and soul-stirring gospel, this season promises more unforgettable moments.
"I’m excited to welcome seven remarkable artists to Mercyhurst who will be performing here for the first time, alongside three returning favorites who continue to inspire and entertain our audiences," said Artistic Director Dr. Brett D. Johnson. "These performers are masters of their craft, and we’re honored to share their unique talents with our community. This season promises to be one of our most memorable yet.”
The season opens on Thursday, Sept. 4, when The Bacon Brothers, the acclaimed musical duo of Kevin and Michael Bacon, bring their highly anticipated Freestanding Tour to the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center.
The Bacon Brothers have spent the better part of three decades exploring their own mix of folk, rock, soul, and country music. They call that diverse sound "forosoco," and it's taken them around the world, from headlining gigs in Japan to American performances at iconic venues like Carnegie Hall, the Grand Ole Opry, and Gruene Hall.
The exploration continues with the band's 12th release, “Ballad Of The Brothers.” It's a record that highlights not only the similarities between Kevin Bacon (known worldwide as an A-list Hollywood actor) and Michael Bacon (celebrated as an Emmy-winning composer) but the differences too. The two siblings may be bound together by blood and a mutual love of American roots music, but they've grown into sharp songwriters and cinematic storytellers with their own distinct approaches.
“Ballad Of The Brothers” marks the continuation of a musical partnership that began long ago in Philadelphia, where the Bacons were raised on a soundtrack of 1970s singer/songwriters, Philly soul bands, and classic rock acts. Multiple decades and countless shows later, they're creating their own soundtrack, saluting their old-school influences while making music that's undeniably modern.
On Tuesday, Oct. 7, the multi-Grammy and Emmy Award-winning Soweto Gospel Choir brings “Peace”—a vibrant and soul-stirring new concert—to the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center.
Hailing from Soweto, the historic township outside Johannesburg that was once home to Nelson Mandela and the heart of South Africa’s democratic movement, the Soweto Gospel Choir has captivated audiences worldwide with its electrifying fusion of African gospel, freedom songs, and international classics. Since its founding in 2002, the choir has earned global acclaim for its “undeniably synchronized, unshakable presence that embodies both universality and individuality” (San Francisco Classical Voice), gracing renowned stages such as Carnegie Hall, the Sydney Opera House, and the Royal Festival Hall.
Praised by luminaries including Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Barack Obama, and Oprah Winfrey, this extraordinary ensemble enchants with its rich harmonies, dynamic rhythms, vibrant costumes, and an infectious spirit of joy. Their latest soul-stirring concert, “Peace,” weaves together South African freedom songs, traditional spirituals, and beloved classics while paying tribute to icons like Aretha Franklin, Harry Belafonte, Peter Gabriel, Kate Bush, Leonard Cohen, and more.
On Tuesday, Nov. 11, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue bring their dynamic fusion of New Orleans jazz, funk, soul, and rock to the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center for a high-energy performance that promises to keep audiences on their feet.
Born Troy Andrews, Trombone Shorty got his start (and nickname) earlier than most: at age four, he made his first appearance at Jazz Fest performing with Bo Diddley; at six, he was leading his own brass band; and by his teenage years, he was hired by Lenny Kravitz to join the band he assembled for his Electric Church World Tour. Shorty’s proven he’s more than just a horn player, though. Catch a gig, open the pages of the New York Times or Vanity Fair, flip on any late-night or morning TV show, and you’ll see an undeniable star with utterly magnetic charisma, a natural-born showman who can command an audience with the best of them.
Since 2010, he’s released five chart-topping studio albums (his most recent being 2022’s “Lifted”); toured with everyone from Jeff Beck to the Red Hot Chili Peppers; collaborated across genres with Pharrell, Bruno Mars, Mark Ronson, Foo Fighters, ZHU, Zac Brown, Normani, Ringo Starr, and countless others; played Coachella, Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, Newport Folk, Newport Jazz, and nearly every other major festival; and performed four times at the GRAMMY Awards, six times at the White House, and on dozens of TV shows.
On Thursday, Nov. 13, Emmy and Golden Globe winner Darren Criss lights up the stage of the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center with an electrifying concert showcasing his dynamic and multifaceted career.
Before Darren Criss became an internet sensation with the viral YouTube hit "A Very Potter Musical" in 2009, he was making a name for himself, performing unique interpretations of popular songs in San Francisco cafes and bars. That same knack for covering tunes served him well in 2010 when he was cast in FOX’s hit musical series "Glee," where his performances led to several Billboard-topping records.
In 2015, his songwriting earned an Emmy nomination for Best Original Music and Lyrics for "This Time," written for the show’s series finale. Criss has since built a dynamic career as a singer-songwriter, actor, and producer, with music credits spanning theatre, film, and television. His Broadway roles include "Hedwig and the Angry Inch" (2015), "How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying" (2012), and "American Buffalo" (2022). He currently stars in the critically acclaimed Broadway musical "Maybe Happy Ending." In 2018, his performance in "The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story" earned him a Primetime Emmy, Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild, and Critics’ Choice Award.
On Wednesday, Dec. 10, Tony-nominated Broadway star and writer Melissa Errico reunites with America’s great piano man, Billy Stritch, for their fourth holiday season together—this time with a brand-new winter show, “The Secret Diary of Mrs. Santa.”
“Dear Diary,” the show begins. “Christmas Eve again. Sigh. Everyone gets a gift. I get an empty bed. Not even a reindeer warming my feet.”
Blending beloved American Songbook classics with fresh takes on holiday favorites, this enchanting debut finds Errico embracing her long-held fascination with the life of Mrs. Santa, who at last sits down to pen her long-overdue memoir. Through a playful and heartfelt song list, she reveals the untold story of the Santas’ courtship, their life at the North Pole, and even a cheeky flirtation with the head elf who stays behind.
Expect romantic mischief (“Baby, It’s Cold Outside”), the joys of toy-making (“When She Loved Me”), and a heartfelt reconciliation (“I’ll Be Home for Christmas”). The evening sparkles with selections like “Rudolph,” “Always True to You in My Fashion,” and “Sleigh Ride,” alongside clever parodies such as “Too Darn Cold” and a hard-swinging “Holiday Feeling,” all brought to life with a fiery jazz trio. This is a holiday show bound to be remembered, at least until next December!
The spring season kicks off on Wednesday, Feb. 18, with the highly anticipated Erie debut of Tango After Dark.
Direct from Argentina, the intimate and powerful Tango After Dark delves into the world of authentic Argentine tango. World Tango Champion German Cornejo returns to the U.S with his superb dance company, accompanied by sensational singers and musicians playing the great tango composer Astor Piazzolla’s “Nuevo Tango,” which “lends the dancing an extra drive and sizzle” (The Times). With a company full of world-class dancers, Cornejo explores the emotive essence of tango in this breathtaking new show, highlighting the various periods of Piazzolla’s work. Inspired by the revolutionary composer, Cornejo transforms tango with his own creative flair that blends tradition with contemporary sophistication.
Cornejo’s spectacular choreography has garnered global acclaim, captivating audiences worldwide for over a decade with sold-out performances and high praise from celebrities like Simon Cowell, Marc Anthony, Heidi Klum, and Jennifer Lopez. Don't miss the opportunity to see authentic Argentinian Tango performed by the very best in the world.
The season continues Wednesday, March 18, when Emmy and Grammy-nominated luminary Cheyenne Jackson brings his infectious charm and powerhouse vocals to the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center with “Signs of Life,” a musical meditation on art, love, fatherhood, and the cosmic twists that have shaped his remarkable path.
Cheyenne Jackson is a Grammy and Emmy-nominated actor, singer, and songwriter known for his versatile work across Broadway, television, film, and concert stages. On Broadway, Jackson’s career spans iconic roles in “Xanadu,” “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” “Aida,” “The Performers,” “Once Upon a Mattress,” “Finian’s Rainbow,” and “All Shook Up,” where he won a Theatre World Award. His television credits include notable appearances in “American Horror Story,” “30 Rock,” “Glee,” “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” “Doctor Odyssey,” “Call Me Kat,” “The Morning Show,” and “American Woman.”
In “Signs of Life,” Jackson invites audiences on a deeply personal and uproariously funny exploration of the universe’s subtle cues. The evening features music, spanning Sam Cooke and Elvis Presley to Lady Gaga and Chappell Roan to Cheyenne’s own song “Ok” about his father’s unconditional love for his gay son. From toe-tapping melodies to saucy showbiz anecdotes, prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with whimsy, laughter, and the sheer joy of a perfectly imperfect night of shared experience.
On Friday, April 17, legendary multi-award-winning actress and singer—and Mercyhurst artist-in-residence—Betty Buckley returns to Walker Recital Hall for another mesmerizing evening of storytelling through song with her longtime musical director, Christian Jacob.
Betty Buckley’s award-winning career spans television, film, stage, and concert work around the world. She earned acclaim for her iconic roles in “1776,” “Pippin,” “The Mystery of Edwin Drood,” “Carrie,” and “Cats,” which earned her a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. She later received a Tony nomination for her performance as Hesione in “Triumph of Love” and an Olivier Award nomination for her lauded portrayal of Norma Desmond in the London production of “Sunset Boulevard,” a role she reprised to further critical acclaim on Broadway.
Buckley has captivated audiences on screen in films like Brian de Palma’s “Carrie,” Bruce Beresford’s “Tender Mercies,” M. Night Shyamalan’s “Split,” the Blumhouse horror film “Imaginary,” Amanda Kramer’s “By Design,” and the upcoming A24 film “Eternity,” as well as on TV in “Law & Order: SVU,” “The Cleaning Lady,” “Preacher,” and “Eight is Enough,” where she starred for four seasons as Abby Bradford. Buckley is also a celebrated recording artist, with 18 albums to her name. In June 2023, she was named artist-in-residence at Mercyhurst University and returns to campus annually to teach and concertize.
French pianist and multi-Grammy-nominated arranger Christian Jacob began playing classical music at age four and discovered jazz at age nine. After graduating with “First Prize” from the Paris Conservatory, Jacob moved to America, where he was honored with the Oscar Peterson Jazz Masters Award and won the Great American Jazz Piano Competition. His credits include scoring two major motion pictures for director Clint Eastwood—“Sully” and “The 15:17 to Paris.” He leads his own trio, co-founded the Tierney Sutton Band, and enjoys a long and heralded association as musical director for Broadway legend Betty Buckley. Currently, Jacob is performing music from his latest recordings: “The Originals,” a collection of 13 original compositions for jazz trio and strings, and his solo piano album, “Beautiful Jazz.”
The season concludes on Friday, May 8, when SiriusXM host, pianist, conductor, writer, and performer Seth Rudetsky returns to Walker Recital Hall with “Divas by the Decade.”
Seth Rudetsky spent many years on Broadway as a pianist and conductor, as well as two years as a comedy writer on “The Rosie O’Donnell Show,” for which he received three Emmy nominations with his co-writers. He is now the afternoon deejay on the SiriusXM Broadway channel, as well the host of “Seth Speaks.” He co-wrote and co-starred in “Disaster!” (NY TIMES critics’ pick) on Broadway, which was licensed by Music Theatre International and is being performed around the country. His books include “Seth’s Broadway Diary Volume 1 and 2,” “My Awesome/Awful Popularity Plan,” “The Rise and Fall of a Theatre Geek,” and “Musical Theatre for Dummies.” In "Divas by the Decade," Rudetsky brings his signature humor and insider knowledge to the stage, dishing on the legendary women who have shaped Broadway history. From "Hamilton" to "West Side Story" and "Gypsy," he’ll share rare audio and video recordings, offering an exclusive look at what made these divas shine as Broadway’s brightest stars.
THE 501 & THE SILVER CIRCLE
Patrons can gain first access to tickets by joining The 501 or The Silver Circle, membership societies of the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture.
In recognition of their support, members receive a range of exclusive benefits designed to enhance their experience, including priority ticket access, premium seating, invitations to private receptions, valet parking, and tickets to MIAC’s signature event, The Summer Soirée.
This year’s soirée, set for Saturday, Aug. 9, promises an unforgettable evening featuring an intimate concert by celebrated songstress Linda Eder in Walker Recital Hall at 7 p.m., followed by an elegant outdoor celebration on the picturesque grounds of the Mercyhurst campus.
Memberships are available now at https://miac.mercyhurst.edu/501. Current members wishing to keep or upgrade their seats must renew by Friday, June 20. New memberships will be processed in the order in which they are received.
The Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center box office will be closed from May 6 through July 28. During this period, anyone wishing to join or renew their 501 or Silver Circle membership by phone or in person should contact MIAC Artistic Director Dr. Brett Johnson at 814-824-2663 or bjohnson@mercyhurst.edu.
SEASON SUBSCRIPTIONS
With the purchase of tickets to four or more MIAC Live performances, subscribers save 10 percent on single ticket prices. Season subscriptions will be available beginning Tuesday, June 24, at noon.
MORE INFORMATION
Single tickets go on sale Tuesday, July 29, at noon and can be purchased online at https://miac.universitytickets.com/, by phone at 814-824-3000, or at the box office in the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center.
THE BACON BROTHERS
Thursday, Sept. 4 @ 7:30 p.m.
Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center
SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR – PEACE
Tuesday, Oct. 7 @ 7:30 p.m.
Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center
TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE
Tuesday, Nov. 11 @ 7:30 p.m.
Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center
DARREN CRISS
Thursday, Nov. 13 @ 7:30 p.m.
Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center
MELISSA ERRICO: THE SECRET DIARY OF MRS. SANTA
Wednesday, Dec. 10 @ 7:30 p.m.
Walker Recital Hall
TANGO AFTER DARK
Wednesday, Feb. 18 @ 7:30 p.m.
Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center
CHEYENNE JACKSON: SIGNS OF LIFE
Wednesday, March 18 @ 7:30 p.m.
Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center
BETTY BUCKLEY
Friday, April 17 @ 7:30 p.m.
Walker Recital Hall
SETH RUDETSKY: DIVAS BY THE DECADE
Friday, May 8 @ 7:30 p.m.
Walker Recital Hall