Wexner Center for the Arts Unveils Exciting 2025-26 Performing Arts Lineup
Wexner Center for the Arts Unveils 2025-26 Performing Arts Lineup
The Wexner Center for the Arts at The Ohio State University has revealed its upcoming 2025-26 performing arts season, promising an exceptional year of groundbreaking performances. Spanning from September 2025 to April 2026, the program features a variety of talents across disciplines such as dance, theater, and music, including opera and jazz. The lineup not only showcases new works but also brings back familiar faces, fostering a rich legacy of artistic innovation.
This season's offerings align perfectly with the Wexner Center's commitment to artistic exploration and collaboration. Many performances will occur in partnership with esteemed organizations like Opera Columbus, Available Light Theatre, and Ohio State's School of Music and Office of Academic Affairs. The season aims to spark conversations on pivotal themes including history, identity, ecology, and communal resilience.
Nathalie Bonjour, the Head of Performing Arts at the Wexner Center, highlighted that this season is about connection and rediscovery. She stated, "we're presenting work that speaks to the moment while continuing to bring visionary artists to our local stage. Whether you're a longtime Wex audience member or visiting for the first time, these performances invite you to experience something powerful, memorable, and vividly present."
Notable Performances
The forthcoming season's lineup is diverse and dynamic, with several noteworthy performances:
1. SOLE Defined Zaz - The Big Easy
Dates: Thu–Fri, Sep 4–5 | 7 PM, Sun, Sep 7 | 3 PM
This world premiere delivers a poignant narrative of resilience encapsulating the experiences of Hurricane Katrina survivors through dance, music, and technology. The fully immersive sensory performance expands the experience far beyond traditional viewing.
2. Etienne Charles - Creole Soul
Date: Thu, Sep 18 | 7–9 PM
Known for his charismatic performances, Charles and his band will explore roots-infused jazz rhythms intertwined with powerful storytelling.
3. Mark Lomax II
Date: Thu, Oct 2 | 7 PM
This performance focuses on holistic upliftment, exploring themes of healing and unity through the lens of Lomax's artistic journey.
4. The Old Man and the Sea
Dates: Fri, Oct 10 - Sun, Oct 12 | 7:30 PM and 2 PM
This Ohio premiere transforms Hemingway’s literary classic into a contemporary operatic experience, featuring unique visual elements and an impressive ensemble.
5. Wanjiru Kamuyu - Fragmented Shadows
Dates: Wed–Thu, Oct 22–23 | 7 PM
This performance delves into personal and societal wounds through the medium of dance and imagery to illuminate the path to liberation.
Furthermore, this season includes performances from renowned artists such as Doug Varone and Dancers, Immanuel Wilkins, as well as a special presentation titled Day of Listening with Claire Chase, all promising to captivate audiences with their innovative approaches.
The advance ticket sales for Wex members have already begun, while tickets for the general public will be available starting July 21. Performance details, artist bios, and additional ticketing information are readily accessible on the Wexner Center’s official webpage.
Conclusion
The 2025–26 performing arts season at the Wexner Center for the Arts stands as a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration. By bridging disciplines and fostering community-wide conversations, the center continues to be a vital cultural hub, making significant contributions to the landscape of performing arts. Patrons, whether old or new, are invited to engage with this ambitious program that seeks to inspire and resonate deeply with its audience.