#United States #Northridge #Soraya Center #Fiddler on the Roof #Martha Graham

Announcing an Exciting Season at The Soraya

The Soraya, located within California State University, Northridge, is set to embark on an exhilarating journey as it unveils its 15th anniversary season for 2025-26. Executive and Artistic Director Thor Steingraber introduced this captivating lineup on May 9, 2025, during the annual Director's Dinner, emphasizing the season's commitment to exploring new themes and celebrating timeless narratives.

A Season of Diversity and Culture

Running from September 13, 2025, to April 25, 2026, this season promises a spectacular 41 performances across 32 events. Each event is designed to take audiences on a cultural adventure, showcased through various genres, including jazz, dance, classical music, Broadway, and film. This rich array of experiences is designed to resonate with audiences of all backgrounds, making every performance a unique exploration of artistic expression.

Steingraber highlighted that this season embodies diverse themes, drawing inspiration from the vibrant nightlife of cities like Lisbon, Buenos Aires, and Mexico City, as well as the daily life of West Africa. Additionally, it will honor the legacies of icons such as Alice Coltrane, Duke Ellington, Brahms, and Quincy Jones, ensuring that every show is a testament to the power of music and performance.

Highlights of the Season

Among the standout performances slated for this season is the opening weekend's presentation of Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish, offering a fresh and culturally rich take on a classic tale. Another highlight is the World Premiere of works by the Martha Graham Dance Company, showcasing the innovative spirit of this legendary troupe.

The season also celebrates the 30th anniversary of Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story through a live-to-film concert experience, which will surely be a delightful treat for fans of all ages. Musical tributes are also in store, including a special concert honoring the incomparable Quincy Jones, featuring Chris Walden and the Pacific Jazz Orchestra, along with Gregory Porter performing Christmas Wish and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra conducted by star maestro Riccardo Muti.

As part of its commitment to showcasing classical music, The Soraya will feature violinist Ray Chen for the first time on October 30, along with a much-anticipated return of Joshua Bell and the famed Academy of St Martin in the Fields on February 26, and the debut of the Mahler Chamber Orchestra with the virtuoso Yuja Wang on April 25.

A Global Musical Experience

Another highlight of the 2025-26 season is the Music Knows No Borders series, which invites a diverse spectrum of international musicians to The Soraya's stage, bringing with them the rich cultural tapestries of their respective backgrounds. This series kicks off with renowned fado singer Mariza on November 6, and features performances from the Tigran Hamasyan Trio on March 7, Quinteto Astor Piazzolla performing on March 21, and the spectacular Cirque Kalabanté's Afrique En Cirque on March 22.

The pivotal Jazz at Naz festival, recognized by DownBeat magazine as one of the world's top jazz venues for 2025 and honored with the title of Best Festival by the San Francisco Classical Voice’s 2024 Audience Choice Awards, will also return this February, continuing The Soraya's rich tradition of celebrating jazz music.

Ticket Information

For those eager to experience this thrilling season, members will have early access to ticket sales from May 9 to July 8. General public ticket sales will commence on July 9, allowing everyone the opportunity to reserve their seats for these highly anticipated performances.

This season isn't just about its performances, but rather a celebration of the diverse world of art that connects us all through rhythm, movement, and creativity. With the 2025-26 season, The Soraya invites you to embark on this artistic adventure, promising an array of experiences that will leave lasting memories.

For more details or to view the full season calendar, please visit The Soraya's official website.