Lied’s 2026-27 highlights include Temptations, Trombone Shorty, ‘Mamma Mia’

The Lied Center for Performing Arts’ 2026-27 season will feature more than 35 events, including top artists and ensembles from around the world in dance, classical music, jazz, musical theater, comedy, family entertainment and illusion. 

“Opportunities to have the time of your life have never been so abundant in Lincoln, Nebraska,” said Bill Stephan, the Lied’s executive director. “Headlining the season is the return of ‘Hamilton,’ the most-popular performing arts event in Lincoln history. The season kicks off with Yächtley Crëw, the No. 1 yacht rock band in the world. We have The Temptations with Otis Williams, Wynton Marsalis, techno spectacular LUMIA, stars of the original cast of ‘RENT’ Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, ‘Mark Twain Tonight,’ the world’s top Queen celebration, ‘Mamma Mia,’ ‘Shucked,’ Riverdance, Trombone Shorty, a celebration of Elton John and Billy Joel starring Michael Cavenaugh, two inspiring holiday shows and two of the most popular children’s shows in the United States. There has never been a better time to enjoy life, escape from the world and be entertained by the greatest artists in the world.”

“Create Your Own Season” packages go on sale at 11 a.m. May 12 here, by phone at 402-472-4747 and at the Lied Center box office, 301 N. 12th St. To become a subscriber, patrons can select any five or more shows in the season and receive a discount of 20% off the entire order.

The Lied Center’s 2026-27 season includes:

• Yächtley Crëw, Sept. 18, 7:30 p.m. — Set sail for a night of smooth grooves and sun-soaked nostalgia with Yächtley Crëw, featuring spot-on renditions of hits by artists such as Hall and Oates, Michael McDonald and Steely Dan. The Los Angeles-based band burst onto the scene in 2017, selling out countless local venues before starting a nationwide yacht rock craze. The band was eventually noticed by Jimmy Buffett, who signed them to his Mailboat label prior to their deal with Earache/Universal Records.
• Metro Jazz Quintet, “Broadway and Hollywood,” Sept. 25-26; “Hot Latin Nights,” Jan. 22-23, 2027; “Legends of Jazz,” March 26-27, 2027, Johnny Carson Theater — Following three consecutive sold-out seasons, the quintet returns to perform “club style” in the intimate setting of the Carson Theater. This group of Nebraska musicians performs a wide variety of music from legendary jazz composers, with a different theme for each show. The events will feature table seating, a candlelight atmosphere, and cocktails available for purchase.
• Angel Stanislav Wang, piano, Sept. 29, 7:30 p.m. — Praised for his expressive depth, commanding technique and artistic individuality, this rising virtuoso has quickly drawn international attention. Wang’s accolades include winning first prize at the International Rachmaninoff Piano Competition and becoming the youngest finalist at the 2025 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. At just 23, he has already earned 30-plus international awards. For his Lied Center debut, he will perform a program featuring Franz Liszt’s “Piano Sonata in B Minor” and Igor Stravinsky’s “Three Movements from Petrushka.”
• The Temptations, Oct. 1, 7:30 p.m. — Ranked No. 1 in Billboard magazine’s most recent list of the greatest R&B/hip-hop artists of all time, The Temptations are American music royalty and international superstars. Led by founding member Otis Williams, the band will perform such hits as “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me),” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” and “Papa was a Rollin’ Stone.”

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• Jazz at Lincoln Center with Wynton Marsalis, Oct. 9, 7:30 p.m. — Celebrate Marsalis’ final season as artistic director of Jazz at Lincoln Center and music director of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra when the world-renowned ensemble returns to the Lied. The group is known for its incredible performances of the works of Duke Ellington and Count Basie, as well as original compositions.
• “LUMIA: An Electrifying Theatrical Spectacle,” Oct. 16, 7:30 p.m. — Enter a dazzling world where the boundaries between technology and live performance vanish. LUMIA is a groundbreaking spectacle that blends daring acrobatic stunts, a pulse-pounding soundtrack and cutting-edge visual effects into an unforgettable experience.
• “An Afternoon of French Romantic Chamber Music,” Oct. 25, 4 p.m., Kimball Recital Hall — The Lincoln Friends of Chamber Music and the Lied Center welcome Chicago-based artists Orion Weiss (piano), Rachel Barton-Pine (violin) and the Pacifica Quartet for a collaborative program of Germaine Tailleferre and Maurice Ravel. The featured work in the second half is Ernest Chausson’s “Concerto for Violin, Piano and String Quartet” — a Romantic chamber gem.
• “Frederick Douglass! The Lion of Freedom,” Nov. 5, 7:30 p.m., Johnny Carson Theater — Experience the powerful story of the American abolitionist and orator in this gripping, one-man theatrical event performed by Darius Wallace. Through riveting storytelling and historic speeches, the performance brings Douglass’ journey from enslavement to national leadership vividly to life. This acclaimed portrayal captures the voice, courage and enduring legacy of one of America’s champions for freedom and equality.
• “Stars of ‘RENT’: Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp,” Nov. 6, 7:30 p.m. — The original stars of “RENT” team up for a new show celebrating 30 years of friendship and music. Expect iconic hits from the beloved musical, the performers’ individual careers and the music that has influenced their lives. Tony Award nominee Pascal is known for his leading roles in Broadway’s “Aida,” “Memphis” and “Something Rotten,” and Rapp has starred in the Broadway show “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” and the hit TV series “Star Trek: Discovery.”

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• “One Vision of Queen” featuring Marc Martel, Nov. 13, 7:30 p.m. — When Hollywood needed someone to help bring Freddie Mercury’s voice to life in the Oscar-winning film “Bohemian Rhapsody,” they turned to Martel. Experience the music of Queen like never before, including iconic hits “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Will Rock You” and “Somebody to Love,” in this high-energy concert celebration.
• “The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System,” Nov. 22, 4 p.m. — Hop on the Magic School Bus for a ride through the solar system in this new musical adaptation based on the Scholastic book series. When the class gets lost on the way to the planetarium, Ms. Frizzle saves the day by blasting into outer space for an epic interplanetary field trip.
• “A Magical Cirque Christmas,” Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m. — Get ready to be dazzled, enchanted and filled with holiday cheer as you witness the talents of world-class entertainers performing jaw-dropping acrobatics and amazing stunts, set to classic holiday tunes. This evening of nostalgia, charm and awe-inspiring performances offers something for all ages.
• “The Swingles: Together for the Holidays,” Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. — The five-time Grammy-winning, United Kingdom-based a cappella group presents a feast of musical comfort and joy, with festive favorites that evoke fireside singalongs and snow-covered worlds. Wrap yourself in the warm vocal magic of The Swingles for a special night that proves there is no place like the Lied Center for the holidays.
• “Mamma Mia,” Dec. 15-20 (eight performances) — A mother, a daughter, three possible dads and a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget. For more than 25 years, people all around the world have fallen in love with the characters, story and timeless hits of ABBA that make “Mamma Mia” the ultimate feel-good show.

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• “Clue: Live on Stage,” Jan. 14-16 (four performances) — Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they will never forget. Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Col. Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, “Clue” is the ultimate whodunit that will leave audiences dying of laughter and guessing until the final twist.
• “Carmen: Ballet Hispánico New York,” Feb. 4, 2027, 7:30 p.m. — Georges Bizet’s “Carmen” has seen countless interpretations over the past 150 years, but never one like this. Acclaimed choreographer Gustavo Ramírez Sansano brings the full-length ballet to the stage, inspired by tauromaquia — the art of bullfighting — breathing new life into the legendary character. Highly original and full of explosive movement, “Carmen” is a bold reimagining of the tragic tale presented by Ballet Hispánico New York, the nation’s leading Hispanic/Latin dance company.

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• “The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John,” starring Michael Cavanaugh, Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m. — Handpicked by Joel to play the leading role in the Broadway show featuring his greatest hits, Micheal Cavanaugh starred in more than 1,200 performances of “Movin’ Out,” earning a Tony nomination. “The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John” features the greatest hits of the two rock piano legends, including “Piano Man,” “Rocket Man,” “Bennie and the Jets,” “Movin’ Out,” “I’m Still Standing” and “My Life.”
• Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue, Feb. 12, 7:30 p.m. — Trombone Shorty has been featured at numerous major music festivals and regularly headlines the New Orleans Jazz Festival; now he is set to make his Lied Center debut. A powerhouse entertainer, he has toured with Maroon 5 and the Red Hot Chili Peppers and collaborated with such artists as Pharrell Williams, Bruno Mars, Mark Ronson, Foo Fighters, Zac Brown and Ringo Starr. The New Orleans ambassador has performed everywhere from the White House and Grammy Awards to Madison Square Garden and the 2025 Super Bowl. Enjoy this must-see concert straight from the heart of the Big Easy.
• Kodǒ, Feb. 16, 7:30 p.m. — For the first time in 25 years, the internationally acclaimed taiko ensemble returns to the Lied Center. With a breathtaking exploration of rhythm, movement and light, Kodǒ combines centuries-old taiko drumming traditions with striking theatricality, creating a performance that is deeply immersive, powerful and meditative.

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• Orpheus Chamber Orchestra with Isata Kanneh-Mason, piano, Feb. 17, 7:30 p.m. — The Grammy-winning orchestra returns to the Lied with British pianist Kanneh-Mason for an evening of elegance and vitality. The program pairs classical favorites by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Joseph Haydn with selections from George Frideric Handel’s “Water Music Suite” and a newly commissioned work by Katie Jenkins, showcasing Orpheus’ trademark conductor-less precision and collaborative spirit.
• “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom: The Musical,” Feb. 21, 4 p.m. — The beloved children’s book bursts onto the stage in a celebration of letters, words and imagination. With infectious rhythms, dazzling puppets and lively dancing, the production transforms the story into a whirlwind of color, creativity and fun. Amid the chaos, Little z struggles to find their place, always arriving last and left behind. With the help of the Big Letters and a heartwarming finale, z learns that everyone has value and a place to belong.
• “Shucked,” Feb. 25-28 (five performances) — “Shucked” is the Tony Award-winning musical comedy The Wall Street Journal called “flat-out hilarious.” Maizy and Beau are getting hitched when the corn that protects their small community starts to die. The town needs answers. But who will dare to venture beyond the borders of Cob County? Featuring the songs “Woman of the World,” “Somebody Will” and “Independently Owned,” this corn-fed, corn-bred American show is sure to satisfy one’s appetite for great musical theater. “Shucked” is recommended for ages 10-plus.
• “Twilight in Concert: The Film with Live Band,” March 6, 7:30 p.m.— A 12-piece ensemble will perform the unforgettable film score live, synchronized with the movie on a full-size cinema screen. Surrounded by the glow of more than a thousand candles, audience members will be transported back to Forks like never before.
• Emmet Cohen, piano, March 9, 7:30 p.m. — One of the leading jazz pianists of his generation, Cohen is set to make his Lied Center debut. A virtuoso musician, producer and bandleader, he has released 12 albums and is the creative force behind “Live From Emmet’s Place.” The landmark series — more than 140 two-hour livestream performances featuring hundreds of musicians — has amassed more than 100 million views worldwide. Cohen was voted Pianist of the Year in the 2025 DownBeat Magazine Readers Poll. He was also named Pianist of the Year and Livestream Producer of the Year by the Jazz Journalists Association in 2023.
• “Water for Elephants,” March 11-14 (five performances) — The bestselling novel comes to life in a unique, spectacle-filled new musical. Hailed as a Critic’s Pick, The New York Times called it “stunning, emotional, heart-filled and gorgeously imaginative.” A young man jumps a moving train unsure of where the road will take him and finds a new home with the remarkable crew of a traveling circus, and a life — and love — beyond his wildest dreams.

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• Riverdance, March 16-17 (three performances) — Since Riverdance first emerged onto the world stage, its fusion of Irish and international dance and music has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. “Riverdance 30 — The New Generation” rejuvenates the much-loved original show with new choreography and costumes, as well as state-of-the-art lighting, projection and motion graphics. And for the first time, Riverdance welcomes “The New Generation” of performers, none of whom were born when the show began 30 years ago.
• Piano Battle, March 20, 7:30 p.m. — Pianists Andreas Kern and Paul Cibis will go head-to-head in a thrilling, interactive competition where the audience decides the winner of each round. Blending dazzling technique with humor and showmanship, the performance will transform a traditional recital into an unforgettable musical showdown.
• Daniil Trifonov, piano, March 22, 7:30 p.m. — The Grammy-winning pianist makes his Lied Center debut with a program showcasing extraordinary range. He will open the concert with Handel’s “Suite No. 5 in E Major,” followed by Stravinsky’s sole piano sonata and Franz Schubert’s beloved “Wanderer Fantasy.” Trifonov’s stylistic exploration will continue in the program’s second half, featuring Brazilian, Argentine and Dominican composers, as well as his own original tango.

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• “Magic Rocks! Illusionist Leon Etienne,” April 1, 7:30 p.m. — Etienne has gained a following with appearances on “America’s Got Talent,” “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” “Masters of Illusion” and “Penn and Teller: Fool Us.” Don’t miss this jaw-dropping, critically acclaimed show — another Lied Center premiere.
• “Mark Twain Tonight,” April 3, 7:30 p.m. — Emmy Award-winning actor Richard Thomas captures the charm and wit of the famous American writer and humorist in this one-man show. Most recently seen on Broadway in “Our Town” and on tour as Atticus Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird,” and beloved to generations as John-Boy Walton, Thomas is the only actor authorized to perform “Mark Twain Tonight” since the original.
• NoGravity, April 6, 7:30 p.m. — NoGravity is a groundbreaking Italian performing arts company that blends dance, theater and visual artistry in ways that seem to defy the laws of physics. The troupe is celebrated for its works based on Dante Alighieris “Divine Comedy,” creating a dreamlike visual world.
• “Hamilton,” April 13-18 (eight performances) — “Hamilton” follows the rise of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton as he fights for honor, love and a legacy that would shape the course of a nation. Based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography and set to a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, the musical has had a profound impact on culture, politics and education. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s masterpiece has won 11 Tony Awards, seven Laurence Olivier Awards, a Grammy and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

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Special add-on performances

These performances are special events outside of the Lied Center’s curated season.

• 

  Emanuel Ax with Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra, Sept. 11, 7:30 p.m. — Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra kicks off its centennial season under the baton of music director Edward Polochick with Aaron Copland’s “Fanfare for the Common Man” and Tyler White’s “A Fivescore Festival: 100 Measures for 100 Years.” The orchestra will be joined on both pieces by the Cornhusker Marching Band. The group will then pay homage to its first concert, in March 1927, with Mozart’s “Overture to Le nozze di Figaro” and Liszt’s “Les Préludes.” The celebration culminates with seven-time Grammy-winning pianist Ax, who will join the orchestra for Mozart’s “Piano Concerto No. 22.” Patrons can add this event to a Lied Center subscription for $45 (including taxes and ticket fees) to receive best available premium seating. The concert is part of LSO's season, so those subscribers do not need to add the concert to the order form.

• Josh Johnson, Sept. 24, 7:30 p.m. — Johnson is an Emmy-nominated writer, stand-up comedian, actor and NAACP award winner. He was recently named the newest correspondent on Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show,” where he was a writer for six years. He was also a writer and performer on NBC’s “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” He is Comedy Central’s most-watched comedian ever, with 40 million-plus views across its platforms. 
• Matt Matthews, Oct. 15, 7 p.m. — Mathews is a comedian and singer/songwriter whose blend of raw honesty, quick wit and Southern charm has made him a fastest-rising star. He first captured attention during the pandemic with “farm chore” videos that quickly built a following of more than 12 million fans and generated more than a billion views across social media.

Learn more about these shows and others.