Lied to announce spring season Feb. 2; preview events set

On Feb. 2, the Lied Center for Performing Arts will announce a full lineup of in-person and virtual events for the spring. Tickets go on sale at 11 a.m. Feb. 9.

“We are thrilled to offer dozens of exceptional events in a mix of genres this spring,” said Bill Stephan, the Lied’s executive director. “With safety at the forefront, we’re moving forward and fulfilling our mission of educating, inspiring and entertaining the people of Nebraska through the performing arts.”

While the full spring season will be announced Feb. 2, tickets are available now for three online season preview events: “Dixie’s Happy Hour”; Joyce Yang, piano; and Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE. More live, high-definition webcasts will be announced Feb. 2.

• “Dixie’s Happy Hour,” Jan. 29, Feb. 5 and 12, 7:30 p.m. — America’s favorite Tupperware lady is back. Right now, the world needs a drinking buddy, and there’s no one more qualified for the job than Alabama’s favorite daughter, Dixie Longate, a gal who’s never too far away from a cocktail. This performance contains language and material best suited for adults. Virtual tickets are available for purchase here.

• Joyce Yang, piano, Jan. 30, 7:30 p.m. — With performances described as “extraordinary” and “kaleidoscopic” (Los Angeles Times), a “knockout” (The New York Times) and “poetic and sensitive” (The Washington Post), this Grammy-nominated pianist captivates audiences with her virtuosity, lyricism and interpretive sensitivity. The Van Cliburn Competition medalist had been scheduled to perform at the Lied in collaboration with Aspen Santa Fe Ballet in April 2020; now she’ll take the virtual stage in a special concert recorded specifically for the Lied featuring the music of Edvard Grieg, Sergei Rachmaninoff and Frédéric Chopin. Free virtual reservations can be made at the Lied Center website. There is also the option to add a donation to support the Lied.

• “Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE, A Dance Company: Grace,” Feb. 5, 7:30 p.m. — Founded by Brown in 1985 and based in Brooklyn, New York, EVIDENCE, A Dance Company focuses on the seamless integration of traditional African dance with contemporary choreography and spoken word. EVIDENCE provides a unique view of human struggles, tragedies and triumphs. Brown uses movement as a way to reinforce the importance of community in African-American culture and to acquaint audiences with the beauty of traditional African forms and rhythms. Originally choreographed for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre in 1999, “Grace” became a part of the EVIDENCE repertory in 2004. It weaves the story of a goddess’s journey to Earth to spread grace among humans, ultimately welcoming them to heaven. Free virtual reservations can be made at the Lied Center website. There is also the option to add a donation to support the Lied.

In addition, three spring shows have been rescheduled:

• Super Diamond, originally Jan. 30, will now perform on April 17.

• Kelli O’Hara, originally Feb. 13, will now perform on June 12.

• Michael Londra and the Celtic Fire, originally March 17, will now perform March 16 and 17.

Patrons with tickets to these events will be contacted directly with information about the new dates.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the touring schedules of many artists and shows, some events previously announced for spring 2021 have been affected. Whenever possible, the Lied Center will work with the artists originally scheduled for the 2020-2021 season to find new dates. For the most current list of event changes and rescheduled dates, click here.