The Soraya Unveils a Dynamic Lineup for the 2026-27 Performance Season
The Soraya, a prominent performing arts center located at California State University, Northridge, has officially unveiled its highly anticipated lineup for the 2026-27 season. This year, they are celebrating a remarkable collection of performances, showcasing eight notable debuts, original programming, and the beloved return of popular festivals such as Jazz at Naz and LA Seen. These events not only underscore The Soraya's reputation for excellence but also reflect its commitment to enriching the cultural landscape of the Los Angeles community.
Under the new leadership of Executive Artistic Director Chad Hilligus, the upcoming season promises an extraordinary array of talent and creativity. With the season's opening night set for September 19, featuring the electrifying Sutton Foster alongside the Pacific Jazz Orchestra, audiences can already anticipate a stellar start to the performance calendar. Other high points include the world premiere of Majo Aguilar con Mariachi y Banda on October 29 and a captivating performance by the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine on January 23. The season will also highlight major performances from jazz and orchestral icons such as Audra McDonald on April 3, 2027, and the LA Phil on March 26, 2027.
Chad Hilligus expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming season, stating, "Thor Steingraber has curated an absolutely brilliant lineup for 2026-27, encapsulating his 12 years of visionary artistic leadership at The Soraya. I look forward to witnessing the season unfold and collaborating with these amazing artists." The new season is structured to cater to a variety of tastes and interests, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
In addition to the mainstream performances, The Soraya will continue to host original programs developed to highlight diverse musical styles and innovative storytelling methods. This forward-thinking approach reaffirms the center's commitment to engaging with a wide audience. Members can access tickets starting May 7, providing exclusive benefits, including substantial discounts and priority seating. Moreover, public sales for individual tickets will officially commence on July 15, allowing everyone else to enjoy the season's remarkable offerings.
The Soraya has already established itself as a cornerstone of the Los Angeles arts scene in its 15 years of operation, with previous seasons experiencing unprecedented attendance and financial success. Such support from its community is indicative of The Soraya’s essential role in promoting cultural arts. The venue is especially recognized for its annual Jazz at Naz festival, which has become a mainstay event, combining compelling performances with community engagement.
For more information about the full lineup, ticket sales, and season calendar, visit TheSoraya.org. This upcoming season is set to be another milestone, further enhancing The Soraya’s legacy as a hub for the performing arts in Los Angeles and providing audiences with unforgettable experiences and opportunities to connect with world-class talent.
As the 2026-27 season approaches, excitement is building throughout the community of Los Angeles. With a program so rich in diversity and quality, it’s an invitation for everyone to participate in each unique performance. The Soraya looks forward to welcoming audiences from near and far as they embark on another unforgettable year of artistic expression and creativity in the heart of Southern California.