The Lied Center for Performing Arts’ 2018-19 season kicks into gear with a performance by Tony Award-winning actor and singer Leslie Odom Jr. on Oct. 5. Legendary crooner Johnny Mathis, political satire group The Capitol Steps and folk ensemble Ballet Folklórico de Mexico are also set to take the Lied’s main stage in October.
Tickets are on sale online, by phone at 402-472-4747 or at the Lied Center box office, 301 N. 12th St. University of Nebraska–Lincoln students can purchase tickets at a 50 percent discount with a valid NCard.
October’s shows:
- “An Act of God,” Oct. 2-5, 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 6, 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 7, 2 p.m.; Oct. 9-13, 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 14, 2 p.m. — God, assisted by devoted angels, answers some of the deepest questions that have long plagued mankind in this irreverent comedy, presented by the Nebraska Repertory Theatre. The performance includes adult content and themes.
“An Evening with Leslie Odom Jr.,” Oct. 5, 7:30 p.m. — Odom, whose portrayal of Aaron Burr in the original Broadway cast of “Hamilton” won him the 2016 Tony Award for best leading actor, makes his Nebraska debut. He has also performed in television and film and has released two solo jazz albums and a book.
“Johnny Mathis: The Voice of Romance Tour,” Oct. 7, 7 p.m. — The legendary singer makes his Lied Center debut, performing his greatest hits with a live orchestra. Mathis’ popular songs include “Chances Are” and “Misty.” He has recorded nearly 80 albums, with several dozen achieving gold or platinum status and 73 making the Billboard charts.
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Oct. 17, 7:30 p.m. — Fresh off its 50th-anniversary tour, the iconic country rock band will bring such hits as “Fishin’ in the Dark” and “Mr. Bojangles” to the Lied. The trio consists of Jeff Hanna, Jimmie Fadden and Bob Carpenter.
The Capitol Steps, Oct. 19, 7:30 p.m. — For more than 30 years, this comedy troupe has been reaching across the aisle to put politics and scandal to music in bipartisan spoofery. The group’s latest production is titled “Orange is the New Barack.”
Chinese Warriors of Peking, Oct. 21, 4 p.m. — Packed with high-intensity martial arts and breathtaking acrobatics, this production tells the tale of rival martial-arts disciples competing in the ancient Chinese capital of Peking during the Ming Dynasty. The group, which has toured with Cirque du Soleil, presents a theatrical experience filled with juggling, aerials and stage combat.
Mariinsky Orchestra, Oct. 28, 7 p.m. — Founded in the 18th century during the reign of Peter the Great, the orchestra is one of the oldest musical institutions in Russia. The Mariinsky Orchestra is led by Grammy-winning music director Valery Gergiev.
Ballet Folklórico de Mexico, Oct. 30, 7:30 p.m. — Amalia Hernandez’s Ballet Folklórico is one of the most celebrated folk ensembles in the world. The 60-member group, complete with full mariachi band, will showcase the music, dance and costumes of Mexican folklore from pre-Colombian times through the modern era.
