Big things are coming to Transylvania University as the school’s Mitchell Fine Arts Center launches a full professional performing arts season. International Grammy and Billboard recognized musicians, family friendly entertainment and community arts performances headline the 2024-25 season.
“In our inaugural professional performance season, we’re excited to showcase a mix of international artists and talented performers from right here in our area,” said S. Rebecca Thomas, vice president for academic affairs and dean of the university. “As Kentucky’s oldest college — and as Lexington enters its 250th anniversary year — we want to feature exceptional members of our community, while also providing audiences with cultural performances from around the world.”
The season kicks off in September with the music of Cuba. Presented in partnership with GreenRoom Exchange, Xiomara Laugart and Axel Tosca bring their rhythmic and inspiring music to Transylvania on Saturday, Sept. 7.
The Bluegrass Youth Ballet brings its fantastical production of “Alebrijes: Pedro’s Magical Spirit Creatures” to the Transy stage Friday and Saturday, Sept. 27-28. This one-hour performance is based on the true story of Pedro Linares, a Mexican pinata maker.
As part of the 2024 PumpkinMania festivities, internationally known comedy magician Joseph Tran brings his humor, stories and magic to the stage Friday, Oct. 24.
On Saturday, Nov. 2, step into an exclusive, up-close concert with David Howley, founding member of Billboard No.1 band We Banjo 3. With influences ranging from traditional Irish roots to modern poetry, Howley’s music creates a timeless, transcendent experience.
The holiday season brings Uniting Voices Lexington back to the Transylvania stage Sunday, Dec. 15, with its Winter Festival of Song. The youth choir, based at Transy, is entering its second year of providing its program in central Kentucky.
In 2025, Lexington celebrates its 250th anniversary — and Transylvania its 245th. One of the nation’s top touring illusionists makes an appearance onstage at Transy Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025. “The Magic of Bill Blagg LIVE!” is a family friendly live performance that leaves people in complete disbelief as he creates the impossible in a way only he can do.
In March, the American Spiritual Ensemble brings the music of Broadway and the West End to Transylvania’s stage. Enjoy selections of Broadway pieces that highlight the African-American experience, as well as jazz music that was composed, arranged or written by African-American artists.
Tickets for most of the 2024 performances are on sale now at transy.edu/tickets. Next year’s performances will go on sale in late November during the holidays.
The 2024-25 Transylvania Performance Season is presented in partnership with Fox56.