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 celebrate human perseverance through faith, as well as jazz music that was composed, arranged or written by African-American artists.
ASE is a critically-acclaimed ensemble that is dedicated to performing provocative, dynamic concerts around the world celebrating the American negro spiritual. The company will be in residency at Transylvania, with classes for students, as well as two performances – the Smith Concert Series, a free community event, and a contemporary concert featuring the best of Broadway.
To say that Bill Blagg has led a life filled with grand illusions and breathtaking magic would be an understatement. He received his first professional magic book from his great-grandfather, which eventually led to building magic props with his dad. These early beginnings paved the way for what is now known as The Magic of Bill Blagg.
Today, Bill is one of the nation’s top touring illusionists. His theatrical brand of magic thrills thousands of people every single year. Bill’s family-friendly live performances leave people in complete disbelief as he creates the impossible in a way only he can do.
To say that Bill Blagg has led a life filled with grand illusions and breathtaking magic would be an understatement. He received his first professional magic book from his great-grandfather, which eventually led to building magic props with his dad. These early beginnings paved the way for what is now known as The Magic of Bill Blagg.
Today, Bill is one of the nation’s top touring illusionists. His theatrical brand of magic thrills thousands of people every single year. Bill’s family-friendly live performances leave people in complete disbelief as he creates the impossible in a way only he can do.
Presented in partnership with Uniting Voices Lexington.
The Transylvania and Lexington communities are invited to celebrate the season on campus at Uniting Voices Lexington’s Winter Festival of Song. Through a geographically and culturally diverse repertoire of songs, as well as a deep emphasis on the historical context of various musical traditions, the structure of Uniting Voices’ programs allow students to discover meaningful connections between their heritage and that of their peers. With this foundation at the core of the organization’s approach, singers forge stronger bonds with each other, creating a sense of collective belonging and personal confidence.
Step into an exclusive, up-close concert with David Howley, founding member of Billboard No.1 band We Banjo 3. This indie folk artist from Ireland weaves soulful vocals, enchanting melodies and evocative storytelling into a mesmerizing blend of music and history. With influences ranging from traditional roots to modern poetry, Howley’s music creates a timeless, transcendent experience.
As one of the most sought after Los Angeles magicians who travels internationally, a regularly performing member of the Magic Castle, and magic consultant for TV/film, Joseph Tran “makes boring disappear!”
Joseph Tran has lived a pretty colorful life: he’s been a stuntman and an actor who has appeared on film, TV and video games speaking multiple languages and he travels all over the world with his magic, all while being an introvert and having stage fright. Inspired by the life-long experience of learning to brush off haters and lean into your weird/nerdy/uncool interests, Tran’s shows combine self-deprecating humor, outrageous stories of his journey from poor kid in Hollywood to less-poor magician in Hollywood, and incredible magic.
Presented in partnership with the Bluegrass Youth Ballet
The Bluegrass Youth Ballet brings back its fantastical production of “Alebrijes: Pedro’s Magical Spirit Creatures.” This one-hour performance is based on the true story of Pedro Linares, a Mexican piñata maker. Bluegrass Youth Ballet performances are educational and incorporate other disciplines such as music, world culture, language arts, social studies or Spanish.
Presented in partnership with the GreenRoom Exchange
Originally from the Guantanamo province of Cuba and now based in New York, Xiomara Laugart is a Grammy nominated vocalist whose music is a brilliant mix of rhythms steeped in her African and Caribbean roots. Known as “The Voice of Cuba,” she has been representing her country and her people, performing at venues around the globe for over 30 years and with the greatest of international talents. A living legend in her native Cuba, she has recorded more than 17 albums.
Grammy-nominated Axel Tosca is a highly talented Cuban jazz pianist and composer who has gained recognition for his virtuosic performances and innovative compositions that blend elements of jazz, classical music, Hip-Hop and Afro-Cuban rhythms. Known for his technical proficiency, soulful playing and innovative approach to jazz, Tosca continues to push the boundaries of the genre and inspire audiences around the world with his music.
