Wharton Center Unveils Blockbuster 2025–2026 Season in Michigan’s Capital City

Michigan’s capital city is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, and at the heart of it all is the iconic Wharton Center for Performing Arts. Nestled on the campus of Michigan State University, this world-class venue has unveiled its highly anticipated 2025–2026 season lineup, and it promises something for every taste — from Broadway blockbusters and ballet to comedy, concerts, and family favorites.

More than just a theater, Wharton Center is a cultural hub for Mid-Michigan, offering affordable parking, easy access, and close proximity to a wide variety of dining and hotel accommodations, making it a seamless destination for visitors and locals alike.

2025–2026 Season Highlights:

• A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical (Sept. 16–21) - Celebrate the life and legacy of the music icon in this high-energy Broadway hit.

• World Ballet Company: The Great Gatsby Ballet (Oct. 2) - A visually stunning adaptation of the classic novel through the art of dance.

• Avatar: The Last Airbender in Concert (Oct. 7) - Experience the beloved animated series with live orchestral accompaniment.

• Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (Oct. 14–19) - A tale as old as time returns to enchant audiences of all ages.

• Chicago (Nov. 12) - The razzle-dazzle Broadway smash brings its signature style and sass to the stage.

• Vienna Boys Choir: Christmas in Vienna (Nov. 30) - A magical holiday concert filled with angelic voices and European charm.

• Bored Teachers: The Struggle is Real! Comedy Tour (Dec. 7) - A hilarious night of teacher-tested comedy perfect for anyone who survived a school year.

• The Wiz (Dec. 9) -This soul-infused take on The Wizard of Oz returns with powerful vocals and timeless storytelling.

• Mannheim Steamroller Christmas (Dec. 16) - A holiday tradition that brings festive cheer with electronic symphonic magic.

• World Ballet Company: The Nutcracker (Dec. 17–18) - A classic holiday fairytale brought to life through dazzling costumes and graceful movement.

• Back to the Future: The Musical (Jan. 13–16) - Strap in for a time-traveling musical adventure based on the beloved film.

• Cirque Kalabanté: Afrique en Cirque (Jan. 22) - A mesmerizing celebration of African culture through circus arts and live music.

• Hadestown (Jan. 30–Feb. 1) - Winner of 8 Tony Awards, this mythical love story promises to be a highlight of the season.

• Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis (Feb. 10) - Jazz royalty takes the stage in an unforgettable evening of world-class performance.

• The Choir of Man (Feb. 24) - A feel-good blend of pub culture, foot-stomping music, and stunning vocals.

• Kimberly Akimbo (Mar. 10–15) - The Tony-winning new musical brings quirky heart and wit to the stage.

• The Simon & Garfunkel Story (Mar. 22) - A nostalgic multimedia experience tracing the lives and songs of the legendary duo.

• Clue (Apr. 7–12) - Murder and mayhem unfold in this hilarious stage adaptation of the classic board game.

• & Juliet (June 23–28) - What if Juliet didn’t die? This pop-fueled musical reimagines Shakespeare’s tale with a modern twist.

Plan Your Visit

From pre-show dinners to post-show drinks and overnight stays, Lansing offers the perfect complement to your theater experience. For details on nearby attractions, dining, and accommodations, visit lansing.org/michigan-state-university.

Photos:

Cal Mitchell as The Lion, Dana Cimone as Dorothy, D. Jerome as The Tinman, and Elijah Ahmad Lewis as The Scarecrow in the North American Tour of THE WIZ. Photo by Jeremy Daniel ; The company of the North American Tour of & JULIET - Photo Credit Matthew Murphy