2008-2009 New Season Announcement

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Watch the Full Season Announcement

Arabesque Arts Across America Ballet Broadway Contemporary Dance Contemporary Music Week

Fortas Chamber Music Jazz NSO Classical NSO Pops Theater Young Audiences

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Kennedy Center President Michael M. Kaiser held a press conference to describe many of the exciting highlights that will make up the 2008-2009 performance season. View a list of all performances announced below. Programs and artists subject to change.

Quick Links

• Arts Across America
• Broadway: The Third Generation
• Theater
• Arabesque: Arts of the Arab World
• NSO Classical Concerts
• NSO Pops Concerts
• Contemporary Music Week

• Fortas Chamber Music
• The Kennedy Center Chamber Players
• Ballet
• Contemporary Dance
• Jazz
• Performances for Young Audiences
• NSO Family Concerts
• Etcetera

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Prelude 2008: Arts Across America

The schedule of events for this series will be announced in the coming months.

Broadway: The Third Generation

Reminder	Event Detail	Cast & Companies
	12th Anniversary of Millennium Stage Jan 31, 2009 at 6:00 PM The Kennedy Center presents a free concert celebrating the third generation of Broadway composers, hosted by Stephen Schwartz and featuring Scott Frankel, Michael Korie, Jeanine Tesori, Stephen Flaherty, Lynn Ahrens, and more.
	Ragtime Apr 18 - May 10, 2009 The Kennedy Center presents an all-new production of Ragtime, the Tony-winning musical based on an E.L. Doctorow novel that intertwines three distinct families' stories in turn-of-the-century New York. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Spring Awakening Jul 7 - Aug 2, 2009 Winner of eight 2007 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Spring Awakening makes its D.C. premiere featuring an original score by Grammy-nominated recording star Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )

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Theater

Reminder	Event Detail	Cast & Companies
	Barbara Cook's Spotlight: "Songs for the Theater: The Next Generation" with Rebecca Luker Nov 8, 2008 at 7:30 PM Tony nominee Rebecca Luker (Mary Poppins) performs in this theater cabaret performance series curated by Broadway legend Barbara Cook. (On Sale Now! )
	Frost/Nixon Nov 11 - 30, 2008 This Tony-nominated play starring Stacy Keach recounts one of the most powerful television interviews of all time. How did British talk-show host David Frost elicit the apology the rest of the world was waiting to hear from former President Richard Nixon? (On Sale Now! )
	Barbara Cook's Spotlight: "How Can I Keep From Singing?" with Victoria Clark Dec 6, 2008 at 7:30 PM Tony winner Victoria Clark (The Light in the Piazza) performs in this theater cabaret performance series curated by Broadway legend Barbara Cook. (On Sale Now! )	Victoria Clark
	Legally Blonde The Musical Dec 16, 2008 - Jan 11, 2009 Nominated for seven 2007 Tony Awards, Legally Blonde makes its D.C. premiere. Sorority star Elle Woods doesn't take "no" for an answer. So when her boyfriend dumps her, Elle sets out to go where no Delta Nu has gone before: Harvard Law. (On Sale Now! )
	The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber Dec 23, 2008 - Jan 4, 2009 This grand showcase of Andrew Lloyd Webber's music features vocalists, backed by an onstage symphony, singing his biggest and most memorable hits. (On Sale Now! )
	Barbara Cook's Spotlight: "An Evening with Liz Callaway" Jan 9, 2009 at 7:30 PM Tony nominee Liz Callaway (Baby) performs in this theater cabaret performance series curated by Broadway legend Barbara Cook. (On Sale Now! )	Liz Callaway
	Barbara Cook's Spotlight: "Opposite You" with Jason Danieley & Marin Mazzie Feb 14, 2009 at 7:30 PM Celebrating ten years together, Broadway's golden couple performs in this theater cabaret performance series curated by Broadway legend Barbara Cook. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Alive from Palestine: Stories Under Occupation Feb 26 - 27, 2009 Created by Palestinian artists as a response to the conflict in their homeland, Alive from Palestine features actors from the Al-Kasaba Theater & Cinematheque in Ramallah telling their diverse life stories. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Richard III: An Arab Tragedy Mar 6 - 7, 2009 In this world of tribal allegiances, family in-fighting, and absolute power, the questions of leadership, religion, and foreign intervention at the heart of Shakespeare's play take on powerful new meanings in a modern Arab-Islamic context. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Khamsoun ("Fifty") Mar 14 - 15, 2009 This controversial production chronicles an important period in Tunisia's history, spanning 50 years from the country's independence to 2006. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Ragtime Apr 18 - May 10, 2009 The Kennedy Center presents an all-new production of Ragtime, the Tony-winning musical based on an E.L. Doctorow novel that intertwines three distinct families' stories in turn-of-the-century New York. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	The Color Purple Jul 1 - Aug 2, 2009 Based on the Pulitzer Prize–winning book by Alice Walker, this soul-stirring Broadway musical is an inspiring family saga that tells the unforgettable story of a woman who--through love--finds the strength to triumph over adversity. (On Sale 1/18/2009 )
	Spring Awakening Jul 7 - Aug 2, 2009 Winner of eight 2007 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Spring Awakening makes its D.C. premiere featuring an original score by Grammy-nominated recording star Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )

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Arabesque: Arts of the Arab World

Reminder	Event Detail	Cast & Companies
	Cie2k_far Dance Company with Khalid Benghrib Feb 24, 2009 at 7:30 PM Moroccan choreographer Khalid Benghrib leads his all-male contemporary dance company in its American premiere. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra Feb 24, 2009 at 7:30 PM Lorin Maazel conducts the Arab and western musicians of the orchestra in its international debut program that includes two new works by their Artistic Director Marcel Khalifé and Beethoven's immortal Fifth Symphony. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Bachir Attar & the Master Musicians of Jajouka Feb 25, 2009 at 7:30 PM Led by Bachir Attar, Morocco's Master Musicians of Jajouka play music that is "an evocation of sustained ecstasy. It is chaotic, cacophonous, sometimes at war with itself. And it is utterly intoxicating"  (Newsweek). (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Alive from Palestine: Stories Under Occupation Feb 26 - 27, 2009 Created by Palestinian artists as a response to the conflict in their homeland, Alive from Palestine features actors from the Al-Kasaba Theater & Cinematheque in Ramallah telling their diverse life stories. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Ensemble Al-Kindi with Sheikh Habboush and the Whirling Dervishes of Aleppo, Syria Feb 27, 2009 at 8:00 PM Syria's Al-Kindi Ensemble, currently rated among the best groups devoted to classical Arab music, joins with the Whirling Dervishes of Aleppo for an evening of music and dance. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	A Taste of the Arab World Feb 28 - Mar 14, 2009 This three-part mini-immersion takes you on a culinary journey into the various regions of the Arab world, learning about the food, land, the people, and the culture of each region. (On Sale Now! )
	Caracalla Dance Theatre: Knights of the Moon Feb 28 - Mar 1, 2009 Lebanon's Caracalla Dance Theatre performs Knights of the Moon, a theatrical extravaganza of jealousy, hidden identities, and love staged by an acclaimed creative team with an original musical score and innovative choreography. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Farida and the Iraqi Maqam Ensemble & Malouma Mar 2, 2009 at 8:00 PM The Iraqi Maqam Ensemble with maqam singer Farida Mohammad Ali performs in a special double-bill event with Mauritanian vocalist Malouma. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Cie La BARAKA: Allegoria Stanza Mar 3, 2009 at 7:30 PM Cie La BARAKA makes its D.C. premiere under the artistic direction of choreographer Abou Lagraa, fusing hip-hop, contemporary dance, and multimedia visuals to stunning effect. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Karima Mansour & MA'AT for Contemporary Dance: Temporament Mar 4, 2009 at 7:30 PM Egyptian dancer and choreographer Karima Mansour makes her North American debut. "Mansour's drive and enthusiasm, her unyielding energy, are infectious" (Al-Ahram). (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Richard III: An Arab Tragedy Mar 6 - 7, 2009 In this world of tribal allegiances, family in-fighting, and absolute power, the questions of leadership, religion, and foreign intervention at the heart of Shakespeare's play take on powerful new meanings in a modern Arab-Islamic context. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Heather Raffo & Amir El Saffar: In Concert: The Sounds of Desire Mar 6, 2009 at 7:30 PM Award-winning author and actress Heather Raffo teams with accomplished jazz trumpeter and Iraqi santoor player Amir El Saffar for a dramatic evening of spoken word and melodic solos. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Aswat: Celebrating The Golden Age of Arab Music Mar 6, 2009 at 8:00 PM With a traditional, 12- to 15-piece Arab orchestra and special guest vocalists, leading Arab composer and multi-instrumentalist Simon Shaheen directs an evening of classic, unforgettable melodies, soul-stirring voices, and lush orchestral arrangements. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Shakespeare in the Arab World Mar 7, 2009 at 5:00 PM This discussion examines Arab-Islamic interpretations of Shakespeare and why the Bard's stories work so well within a cultural context so seemingly far removed. (On Sale Now! )
	Marcel Khalifé and Al Mayadine Ensemble Mar 7, 2009 at 8:00 PM One of the most celebrated Arab musicians and composers, oud player Marcel Khalifé and his group pay tribute to the late contemporary Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish, who was a great influence on Khalifé's music. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Fathy Salama and Orchestra: Sultany Mar 8, 2009 at 7:30 PM Egyptian jazz pianist Fathy Salama's music reflects his tireless efforts to bridge traditional and modern music from the Orient. For his program Sultany, he plays with his orchestra. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Compagnie Thor: D'ORIENT Mar 10 - 11, 2009 Belgium's Compagnie Thor makes its DC debut with Artistic Director and choreographer Thierry Smits's D'ORIENT, born out of his passion for the Middle East. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	OMAN…O Man! Mar 12 - 15, 2009 Bringing together young dancers from the Sultanate of Oman, the Debbie Allen Dance Academy, and the D.C. area, this exciting music and dance extravaganza will transport you to where the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea meet and the desert dunes mystify. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Khamsoun ("Fifty") Mar 14 - 15, 2009 This controversial production chronicles an important period in Tunisia's history, spanning 50 years from the country's independence to 2006. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )

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NSO Classical Concerts

Reminder	Event Detail	Cast & Companies
	Iván Fischer, conductor/All-Wagner Program Oct 30 - Nov 1, 2008 NSO Principal Conductor Iván Fischer leads an all-Wagner program featuring selections from Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, Götterdämmerung, Tristan und Isolde, and Die Walküre. (On Sale Now! )	Iván Fischer
	Michael Christie, conductor/Jennifer Koh, violin, plays Bernstein Nov 13 - 15, 2008 Violinist Jennifer Koh performs Bernstein's Serenade. In his NSO debut, conductor Michael Christie also leads two masterpieces by Stravinsky. (On Sale Now! )	Michael Christie Jennifer Koh
	Yakov Kreizberg, conductor/Lars Vogt, piano, plays Mozart Nov 20 - 22, 2008 Lars Vogt makes his NSO debut in Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 20. Conductor Yakov Kreizberg also leads works by Dvo?ák and Schmidt. (On Sale Now! )	Yakov Kreizberg Lars Vogt Yakov Kreizberg
	Itzhak Perlman, conductor & violin/Bach, Mozart, & Tchaikovsky Dec 4 - 6, 2008 Itzhak Perlman – who exhibits "playing of great honesty" (Los Angeles Times) – performs J. S. Bach's Violin Concerto in A minor. He also conducts Mozart's "Haffner" Symphony and Tchaikovsky's "Pathétique" Symphony. (On Sale Now! )	Itzhak Perlman
	Handel's Messiah Dec 18 - 21, 2008 Get in the holiday spirit with Handel's epic masterpiece, performed each year with a fresh perspective by the NSO and acclaimed guest artists. (On Sale Now! )	Christine Brandes
	Philippe Jordan, conductor/Lynn Harrell, cello, plays Schumann Jan 8 - 10, 2009 Lynn Harrell performs Schumann's Cello Concerto. Philippe Jordan, in his NSO debut, also conducts Prokofiev's Classical Symphony and Beethoven's Symphony No. 4. (On Sale Now! )	Lynn Harrell
	Ilan Volkov, conductor/Leif Ove Andsnes, piano, plays Rachmaninoff Jan 15 - 17, 2009 In his NSO debut, Leif Ove Andsnes performs Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 3. The New York Times says his "elegant pianism… has plenty of sparkle and vigor." Ilan Volkov also conducts works by Stravinsky and Crumb. (On Sale Now! )	Ilan Volkov
	Emmanuel Krivine, conductor/Yundi Li, piano, plays Ravel Jan 22 - 24, 2009 Yundi Li performs Ravel's Piano Concerto in G major conducted by Emmanuel Krivine. Also on the program: Berlioz's Symphonie fantastique. (On Sale Now! )	Yundi Li
	André Previn, conductor/Anne-Sophie Mutter, violin, plays Mozart Jan 31, 2009 at 8:00 PM Two German virtuoso musicians – Kennedy Center Honoree André Previn and "superbly gifted" (The New York Times) violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter - join forces for this one-night-only concert event. (On Sale Now! )	André Previn André Previn
	Iván Fischer, conductor/Bartók & Dvorák Feb 5 - 7, 2009 NSO Principal Conductor Iván Fischer leads a program featuring Bartók's Concerto for Orchestra and Dvorák's Symphony No. 7. (On Sale Now! )	Iván Fischer
	Charles Dutoit, conductor/Yuja Wang, piano, plays Prokofiev Feb 19 - 21, 2009 Charles Dutoit – praised for his "keenly propulsive conducting" by the New York Times – leads the Orchestra in Prokofiev's Piano Concerto No. 2 featuring the NSO debut of Yuja Wang. The program also includes Stravinsky's The Firebird. (On Sale Now! )
	Xian Zhang, conductor/Gil Shaham, violin, plays Stravinsky Feb 26 - 28, 2009 Gil Shaham performs Stravinsky's Violin Concerto. In her NSO debut, Xian Zhang also conducts the Divertimento from Stravinsky's The Fairy's Kiss as well as works by Adès and Weill. (On Sale Now! )	Gil Shaham
	Herbert Blomstedt, conductor/Jonathan Biss, piano, plays Mozart Mar 19 - 21, 2009 Jonathan Biss performs Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 27. Conducted by Herbert Blomstedt, the program also includes Bruckner's Symphony No. 9. (On Sale Now! )
	Nights at the Movies: Buster Keaton's The General Apr 4, 2009 at 8:00 PM Watch the entire classic silent film with the score performed live by the NSO and acclaimed organist Dennis James. (On Sale Now! )
	Kurt Masur, conductor/All-Brahms Program Apr 9 - 11, 2009 The Times of London says "Kurt Masur has extraordinary joie de vivre." With the NSO, he conducts two classics by Brahms: Haydn-Variations and Ein deutsches Requiem. (On Sale Now! )
	Iván Fischer, conductor/Leonidas Kavakos, violin, plays Mendelssohn (Thu. & Sat.) & Tchaikovsky (Fri.) Apr 16 - 18, 2009 NSO Principal Conductor Iván Fischer leads a new work by Daniel Kellogg plus Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 5. Leonidas Kavakos also performs Violin Concertos by Mendelssohn (Thu. & Sat.) and Tchaikovsky (Fri.). (On Sale Now! )	Iván Fischer Iván Fischer
	David Zinman, conductor/Brahms's Symphony No. 4 Apr 23 - 25, 2009 London's The Guardian says "David Zinman has a scrupulous but luxurious touch." With the NSO, he conducts Brahms's Symphony No. 4, Webern's Langsamer Satz, and Schoenberg's Verklärte Nacht. (On Sale Now! )	David Zinman
	Helmuth Rilling, conductor/Haydn's The Creation Apr 30 - May 2, 2009 Helmuth Rilling conducts Haydn's The Creation featuring acclaimed vocal soloists and the University of Maryland Concert Choir. (On Sale Now! )
	Oliver Knussen, conductor/Leila Josefowicz, violin, plays Knussen May 7 - 9, 2009 As part of Contemporary Music Week, Oliver Knussen leads a program that includes his own Violin Concerto. The work features Leila Josefowicz, who the Chicago Sun-Times says "plays with a zest and fiery personality." (On Sale Now! )	Leila Josefowicz
	Jun Märkl, conductor/Garrick Ohlsson, piano, plays Mozart May 14 - 16, 2009 Garrick Ohlsson performs Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 25. In his NSO debut, Jun Märkl also conducts two works by Schumann: Konzertstück for 4 Horns and the "Spring" Symphony. (On Sale Now! )
	Nights at the Movies: A Night on the Red Carpet May 21, 2009 at 8:00 PM Conductor/host Richard Kaufman leads movie music accompanied by images. In this concert, enjoy selections from Oscar-winning movies including Ben Hur, Casablanca, Dr. Zhivago, Out of Africa, and more. (On Sale Now! )
	Mikko Franck, conductor/Karita Mattila, soprano, sings Richard Strauss Jun 25 - 27, 2009 Soprano Karita Mattila "is a powerful presence… in a class of her own" says the Los Angeles Times. She makes her NSO debut in a program conducted by Mikko Franck that includes Richard Strauss's Drei Hymnen and Eine Alpensinfonie. (On Sale Now! )

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NSO Pops Concerts

Reminder	Event Detail	Cast & Companies
	D.C. and the Duke/Marvin Hamlisch, conductor Nov 28 - 29, 2008 As part of Jazz in DC, The Jazz Ambassadors Army Field Band joins the NSO Pops over Thanksgiving weekend for a rousing program that will include the music of Duke Ellington, Dr. Billy Taylor, and James Reese Europe. (On Sale Now! )	Dr. Billy Taylor Marvin Hamlisch
	Happy Holidays!: Marvin Hamlisch, conductor Dec 11 - 14, 2008 Make the holidays the most wonderful time of the year with this annual NSO Pops tradition featuring a visit from Santa Claus and acclaimed guest artists. (On Sale Now! )	Marvin Hamlisch
	The Smothers Brothers Feb 12 - 14, 2009 America's favorite brother comedy-music duo joins the NSO Pops for a fun-filled concert celebrating 50 years in show business. (On Sale Now! )
	Jerry Herman's Broadway/Donald Pippin, conductor Mar 12 - 14, 2009 Enjoy favorite songs from such legendary shows as Hello, Dolly!, La Cage aux Folles, Mame, Mack and Mabel, and Milk and Honey. (On Sale Now! )
	The Temptations/Marvin Hamlisch, conductor May 28 - 30, 2009 Now in their fifth decade, Motown sensations The Temptations close out the NSO Pops season with a thrilling concert led by Principal Pops Conductor Marvin Hamlisch. (On Sale Now! )	Marvin Hamlisch

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Contemporary Music Week

Reminder	Event Detail	Cast & Companies
	Composer Spotlight: Lera Auerbach May 1, 2009 at 7:30 PM Continuing in the tradition of great 19th and 20th-century pianist/composers, Auerbach is one of the most widely performed composers of the new generation. She performs a program of her works with cellist Alisa Weilerstein and mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )
	Composer Spotlight: Bruce Adolphe May 2, 2009 at 7:30 PM Composer Bruce Adolphe's chamber music, symphonies, film scores, and song cycles have been performed all over the world. This concert, a selection of his chamber works, features some of today's exciting musicians and the Center debut of the Apollo Trio. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )
	Composer Spotlight: Joan Tower May 4, 2009 at 7:30 PM Sophisticated and technically demanding--yet extremely approachable--composer Joan Tower's music is often personally inspired. Tower on piano is joined first by her frequent collaborators the Muir Quartet and then the Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )
	Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio and Miami String Quartet May 5, 2009 at 7:30 PM These two world-renowned ensembles return for a program with works by Boccherini and Dvorák, as well as the D.C. premiere of a new piano septet written for them by Ellen Taaffe Zwilich in recognition of Contemporary Music Week. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )	Joseph Kalichstein
	The Nash Ensemble of London May 6, 2009 at 7:30 PM The Nash Ensemble of London boasts an eclectic repertoire, from the classics to the contemporary. They perform a program that was chosen by British composer and conductor Oliver Knussen, the curator of the Kennedy Center's Contemporary Music Week. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )
	Oliver Knussen, conductor/Leila Josefowicz, violin, plays Knussen May 7 - 9, 2009 As part of Contemporary Music Week, Oliver Knussen leads a program that includes his own Violin Concerto. The work features Leila Josefowicz, who the Chicago Sun-Times says "plays with a zest and fiery personality." (On Sale Now! )	Leila Josefowicz
	National Symphony Orchestra chamber ensemble: Oliver Knussen, conductor/Contemporary Music Program May 10, 2009 at 7:30 PM British conductor Oliver Knussen leads a chamber ensemble of NSO musicians as part of the Kennedy Center's Contemporary Music Week. The program includes Knussen's Requiem - Songs for Sue featuring soprano Claire Booth. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )

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Fortas Chamber Music Concerts

Reminder	Event Detail	Cast & Companies
	Emerson String Quartet Nov 5, 2008 at 7:30 PM Two seasons ago, the Emersons performed Shostakovich's first eight string quartets, enrapturing Fortas audiences. They return to perform Shostakovich's remaining string quartets, Nos. 9-12 (Nov. 5) and Nos. 13-15 (Nov. 6). (On Sale Now! )
	Emerson String Quartet Nov 6, 2008 at 7:30 PM Two seasons ago, the Emersons performed Shostakovich's first eight string quartets, enrapturing Fortas audiences. They return to perform Shostakovich's remaining string quartets, Nos. 9-12 (Nov. 5) and Nos. 13-15 (Nov. 6). (On Sale Now! )
	Perlman-Schmidt-Bailey Trio Nov 12, 2008 at 7:30 PM For their second Fortas appearance, this acclaimed trio--pianist Navah Perlman, cellist Zuill Bailey, and violinist Giora Schmidt--lends its energetic performance style to works by Beethoven, Mendelssohn, and others. (On Sale Now! )
	Juilliard String Quartet Dec 5, 2008 at 7:30 PM The ever-evolving institution that is the Juilliard String Quartet has become a living American legend. It makes its Fortas debut with Mendelssohn's Quartet in E-flat major, Dutilleux's Ainsi la Nuit, and Ravel's Quartet in F major. (On Sale Now! )
	Augustin Hadelich, violin Jan 25, 2009 at 7:30 PM Juilliard graduate Augustin Hadelich has established himself as an eloquent, versatile, and unique voice among the new generation of violinists. He's joined by pianist Rohan De Silva for works by Beethoven, Prokofiev, Sarasate, and Bartok. (On Sale Now! )
	Guarneri String Quartet: Farewell Tour - Final Concert in Washington Feb 10, 2009 at 7:30 PM After 45 years as one of the world's most revered quartets, the Guarneri embark upon their final tour. For their last DC concert, they play Beethoven's String Quartet in A minor and, with original cellist David Soyer, Schubert's Cello Quintet in C major. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	The Hilliard Ensemble Feb 12, 2009 at 7:30 PM One of the world's foremost vocal groups, this British a cappella quartet makes its Kennedy Center debut, bringing its ensemble virtuosity to bear on great works of the Medieval, Renaissance, and contemporary periods. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Harolyn Blackwell, soprano, with Post-Classical Ensemble Mar 1, 2009 at 7:30 PM One of the brightest stars on stage today, soprano and D.C. native Harolyn Blackwell is joined by Post-Classical Ensemble, self-dubbed as "more than an orchestra," for a unique program of chamber music with roots from Europe's Iberian Peninsula. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Composer Spotlight: Lera Auerbach May 1, 2009 at 7:30 PM Continuing in the tradition of great 19th and 20th-century pianist/composers, Auerbach is one of the most widely performed composers of the new generation. She performs a program of her works with cellist Alisa Weilerstein and mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )
	Composer Spotlight: Bruce Adolphe May 2, 2009 at 7:30 PM Composer Bruce Adolphe's chamber music, symphonies, film scores, and song cycles have been performed all over the world. This concert, a selection of his chamber works, features some of today's exciting musicians and the Center debut of the Apollo Trio. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )
	Composer Spotlight: Joan Tower May 4, 2009 at 7:30 PM Sophisticated and technically demanding--yet extremely approachable--composer Joan Tower's music is often personally inspired. Tower on piano is joined first by her frequent collaborators the Muir Quartet and then the Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )
	Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio and Miami String Quartet May 5, 2009 at 7:30 PM These two world-renowned ensembles return for a program with works by Boccherini and Dvorák, as well as the D.C. premiere of a new piano septet written for them by Ellen Taaffe Zwilich in recognition of Contemporary Music Week. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )	Joseph Kalichstein
	The Nash Ensemble of London May 6, 2009 at 7:30 PM The Nash Ensemble of London boasts an eclectic repertoire, from the classics to the contemporary. They perform a program that was chosen by British composer and conductor Oliver Knussen, the curator of the Kennedy Center's Contemporary Music Week. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )
	National Symphony Orchestra chamber ensemble: Oliver Knussen, conductor/Contemporary Music Program May 10, 2009 at 7:30 PM British conductor Oliver Knussen leads a chamber ensemble of NSO musicians as part of the Kennedy Center's Contemporary Music Week. The program includes Knussen's Requiem - Songs for Sue featuring soprano Claire Booth. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )

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The Kennedy Center Chamber Players

Reminder	Event Detail	Cast & Companies
	The Kennedy Center Chamber Players perform Dvorák, Britten, and Brahms Jan 18, 2009 at 2:00 PM The program includes Dvorák's Terzetto in C major for Two Violins and Viola; Britten's Phantasy Quartet for Oboe, Violin, Viola, and Cello; and Brahms's String Sextet No. 2 in G major. (On Sale Now! )	Tsuna Sakamoto Ricardo Cyncynates David Hardy Daniel Foster Nurit Bar-Josef James Lee
	The Kennedy Center Chamber Players: All-Beethoven Marathon, Part I Feb 15, 2009 at 2:00 PM Don't miss the first concert in this two-part all-Beethoven marathon featuring all of his chamber works for Cello and Piano. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )	Lambert Orkis David Hardy
	The Kennedy Center Chamber Players: All-Beethoven Marathon, Part II Feb 15, 2009 at 4:30 PM Don't miss the second concert in this two-part all-Beethoven marathon featuring all of his chamber works for Cello and Piano. (On Sale 12/11/2009 )
	The Kennedy Center Chamber Players perform Mozart & Messiaen Jun 28, 2009 at 2:00 PM The Players perform Mozart's String Quintet No. 2 K.515 and Messiaen's Quatuor pour la Fin du Temps. (On Sale 4/9/2009 )

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Ballet

Reminder	Event Detail	Cast & Companies
	The Suzanne Farrell Ballet Oct 8 - 12, 2008 One of "the most courageous projects in ballet today" (New York Times), The Suzanne Farrell Ballet performs two Balanchine programs: Episodes with Ballet Austin, Ragtime, and Liebeslieder Walzer, plus "The Balanchine Couple." (On Sale Now! )	Suzanne Farrell The Suzanne Farrell Ballet
	San Francisco Ballet Nov 25 - 30, 2008 Over Thanksgiving week, the renowned company celebrates its 75th anniversary with Artistic Director Helgi Tomasson's full-length Giselle and a mixed repertory program. (On Sale Now! )	San Francisco Ballet
	The Joffrey Ballet: The Nutcracker Dec 11 - 14, 2008 The Joffrey dancers perform a "dazzling" (The Chicago Sun-Times) version of Tchaikovsky's family classic, featuring charming Victorian scenery and costumes. (On Sale Now! )	The Joffrey Ballet
	Mariinsky Ballet (formerly Kirov) Jan 13 - 18, 2009 St. Petersburg's magnificent company returns with the full-length Don Quixote, Petipa's delightful interpretation of Cervantes's tale of romance, chivalry, and bittersweet emotion. (On Sale Now! )	Mariinsky Ballet
	American Ballet Theatre Feb 17 - 22, 2009 ABT's tremendous stars perform Petipa's full-length Swan Lake, plus a program of mixed repertory featuring works by Balanchine, Tudor, and Tharp. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )	American Ballet Theatre
	New York City Ballet Mar 4 - 8, 2009 The acclaimed company, renowned for its purity, balance, and musicality, performs three mixed repertory programs featuring works by Balanchine, Robbins, and Tharp to music performed by the New York City Ballet Orchestra. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )	New York City Ballet
	Bolshoi Ballet Jun 16 - 21, 2009 Moscow's great company performs the exclusive North American performances of Artistic Director Alexei Ratmansky's re-staging of Petipa's full-length Le Corsaire, called "grand" and "luscious" by London's The Independent. (On Sale 4/9/2009 )	Bolshoi Ballet
	The Royal Ballet Jun 23 - 28, 2009 London's acclaimed company presents MacMillan's Manon and a mixed repertory program with works by Ashton, Wheeldon, and McGregor. (On Sale 4/9/2009 )	Royal Ballet

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Contemporary Dance

Reminder	Event Detail	Cast & Companies
	Martha Graham Dance Company Dec 9 - 10, 2008 America's oldest contemporary dance company returns to perform Graham's full-length Clytemnestra with live orchestra as part of Modern Masters, the Center's celebration of American modern dance. (On Sale Now! )	Martha Graham Dance Company
	Merce Cunningham Dance Company Dec 12 - 13, 2008 The Kennedy Center Honoree and legendary choreographer returns with his company for a program of DC premieres of Cunningham repertory--eyeSpace, Crises, XOVER--as part of Modern Masters, the Center's celebration of American modern dance. (On Sale Now! )	Merce Cunningham Dance Company
	Limón Dance Company Jan 16 - 17, 2009 Marking the 100th anniversary of Limón's birth, the company presents a program of his seminal works--The Traitor, Psalm, Suite from A Choreographic Offering--as part of Modern Masters, the Center's celebration of American modern dance. (On Sale Now! )
	Mark Morris Dance Group Jan 29 - 31, 2009 Returning to the Kennedy Center for the first time since 1985, the groundbreaking company performs Mozart Dances with live orchestra as part of Modern Masters, the Center's celebration of American modern dance. (On Sale Now! )
	Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Feb 3 - 8, 2009 This globally renowned company celebrates its 50th anniversary with a collection of classics plus their highly anticipated new collaboration with Sweet Honey In The Rock as part of Modern Masters, the Center's celebration of American modern dance. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )	Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
	Cie2k_far Dance Company with Khalid Benghrib Feb 24, 2009 at 7:30 PM Moroccan choreographer Khalid Benghrib leads his all-male contemporary dance company in its American premiere. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Karima Mansour & MA'AT for Contemporary Dance: Temporament Mar 4, 2009 at 7:30 PM Egyptian dancer and choreographer Karima Mansour makes her North American debut. "Mansour's drive and enthusiasm, her unyielding energy, are infectious" (Al-Ahram). (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Compagnie Thor: D'ORIENT Mar 10 - 11, 2009 Belgium's Compagnie Thor makes its DC debut with Artistic Director and choreographer Thierry Smits's D'ORIENT, born out of his passion for the Middle East. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company Mar 24 - 25, 2009 This eloquent company, known for its choreographic infusion of energy and dynamic technical virtuosity, performs their new full-length work The Quarrelling Pair as part of Modern Masters, the Center's celebration of American modern dance. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	Paul Taylor Dance Company Mar 27 - 28, 2009 The company returns to perform a program chosen by Taylor: two new works, De Sueños and De Sueños que se Repiten, as well as Mercuric Tidings as part of Modern Masters, the Center's celebration of American modern dance. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )	Paul Taylor Dance Company

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Jazz

Reminder	Event Detail	Cast & Companies
	Keys to New Orleans: Allen Toussaint, Henry Butler, Jon Cleary Nov 7, 2008 The Keys to New Orleans features three Crescent City music legends--Allen Toussaint, Henry Butler, and Jon Cleary--joining forces for a spectacular tribute to the Big Easy. (On Sale Now! )
	KC Jazz Club: Javon Jackson with Les McCann: Swiss Movement Revisited Nov 8, 2008 Saxophonist Javon Jackson and pianist Les McCann come together to perform in a concert that revisits McCann's 1969 hit album Swiss Movement, recently re-released by Rhino/Atlantic. (On Sale Now! )
	Discovery Artist in the KC Jazz Club: Dan Tepfer Nov 14, 2008 Critics have called New York-based pianist/composer Dan Tepfer "brilliant" (Boston Globe) and "one of tomorrow's jazz stars" (Eugene Weekly). He was recently named the 2007 Cole Porter Fellow in Jazz of the American Pianists Association. (On Sale Now! )
	KC Jazz Club: Frank Wess Quintet Nov 21, 2008 Flutist, saxophonist, NEA Jazz Master, and Kennedy Center Living Jazz Legend Frank Wess has been praised by the Washington Post for his "soulful lyricism" and "great artistry." (On Sale Now! )
	Ellington Voices: Classical to Jazz with Nnenna Freelon and Harolyn Blackwell Nov 22, 2008 at 7:30 PM Vocalists Freelon and Blackwell explore the intersection of classical music and jazz through the musical genius of Duke Ellington in this world premiere Kennedy Center–commissioned concert. (On Sale Now! )	Nnenna Freelon
	D.C. and the Duke/Marvin Hamlisch, conductor Nov 28 - 29, 2008 As part of Jazz in DC, The Jazz Ambassadors Army Field Band joins the NSO Pops over Thanksgiving weekend for a rousing program that will include the music of Duke Ellington, Dr. Billy Taylor, and James Reese Europe. (On Sale Now! )	Dr. Billy Taylor Marvin Hamlisch
	NPR's A Jazz Piano Christmas Dec 4, 2008 Join the Kennedy Center and National Public Radio when top jazz pianists and other artists perform their favorite holiday songs. An annual NPR tradition, the concert will be recorded for later broadcast. (On Sale Now! )
	A Jazz New Year's Eve Dec 31, 2008 Ring in the New Year in style with a sizzling late-night jazz performance by the Grammy-winning ensemble New York Voices and the Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Big Band. (On Sale Now! )
	Benny Golson at 80 Jan 24, 2009 at 7:30 PM The Kennedy Center salutes the 60-year career of award-winning saxophonist and NEA Jazz Master Benny Golson in a concert with appearances by the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, Al Jarreau, Ron Carter, and others. (On Sale Now! )
	So in Love: An Evening of Cole Porter, with Patricia Barber Feb 13, 2009 at 7:30 PM Vocalist Patricia Barber performs music from The Cole Porter Mix--her 2008 Blue Note Records CD that includes "I've Got You Under My Skin," "What Is This Thing Called Love?," and "You're the Top." (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	So in Love: An Evening of Cole Porter, with Ann Hampton Callaway Feb 13, 2009 at 9:30 PM Enjoy a sexy, suave, and swinging time with vocalist Ann Hampton Callaway and her Trio, as they take a cosmopolitan romp through the Cole Porter songbook. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	"Dedicated to You": Kurt Elling in a John Coltrane/Johnny Hartman Tribute Feb 28, 2009 Kurt Elling brings Ernie Watts, the Ethel String Quartet, and the Laurence Hobgood Trio aboard for Dedicated to You, Elling's creative re-imagining of John Coltrane's collaboration with "romantic balladeer" Johnny Hartman. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	KC Jazz Club: Edmar Castaneda Trio Mar 27, 2009 "A jazz harpist of imposing talent" (The New York Times), Colombian-born Edmar Castaneda has turned the New York jazz scene on its ear, transforming the harp into a percussive lead instrument. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	KC Jazz Club: René Marie: Voice of My Beautiful Country Mar 28, 2009 MAXJAZZ recording artist and Kennedy Center favorite René Marie has been called "a jazz singer with the talent, the imagination, and the sheer presence to be included in the very top level of performers" by the Los Angeles Times. (On Sale 12/11/2008 )
	The Blue Note Records 70th Anniversary--On Tour Apr 5, 2009 Blue Note Records artists--pianist Bill Charlap, trumpeter Nicholas Payton, saxophonists Ravi Coltrane and Steve Wilson, guitarist Peter Bernstein, drummer Lewis Nash, and bassist Peter Washington--perform well-known hits from this renowned label's vault. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )
	Discovery Artist in the KC Jazz Club: Marc Cary and the Focus Trio May 1, 2009 As cool and collected as they come, pianist/composer and DC native Marc Cary has been ranked by DownBeat Magazine as one of the four "most multi-dimensional" keyboard players on the scene today. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )
	KC Jazz Club: John Clayton and Gerald Clayton: Father and Son May 2, 2009 Three-time Grammy-nominated bassist John Clayton's talents are consistently in demand. His son, pianist Gerald performs with an "Oscar Peterson–like style, highly controlled touch and dynamics and rhapsodic, episodic soloing" (The New York Times). (On Sale 2/12/2009 )	Gerald Clayton
	Discovery Artist in the KC Jazz Club: Ambrose Akinmusire May 8, 2009 Winner of the 2007 Thelonious Monk International Jazz Trumpet Competition, Ambrose Akinmusire performs music that works its "way under the skin, delivering a tickle one moment and an electric jolt the next" (Variety). (On Sale 2/12/2009 )
	KC Jazz Club: Roger Kellaway: Tribute to Oscar Peterson May 9, 2009 Roger Kellaway "is a rare pianist with the technical command and historical knowledge to recreate a portion of Oscar Peterson's ‘power, clarity, musicality, and will to swing,' all while sounding like himself" (JazzTimes). (On Sale 2/12/2009 )
	Mary Lou Williams Women in Jazz Festival - 14th annual May 14 - 16, 2009 Hosted by Dee Dee Bridgewater, the festival marks its 14th thrilling year with three evenings of star-studded performances featuring the world's top female jazz artists. (On Sale 2/12/2009 )

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Performances for Young Audiences

Reminder	Event Detail	Cast & Companies
	NSO Children's Concert with Iván Fischer Nov 2, 2008 NSO Principal Conductor Iván Fischer introduces children to the world of classical music through short, carefully selected works performed by NSO ensembles. (On Sale Now! )
	Native Pride Dancers Nov 22 - 23, 2008 Larry Yazzie, American Indian World Champion Fancy Dancer, along with his young son Jessup and the Native Pride Dancers honor the gifts of American Indian music and dance that have been passed down from their ancestors. Ages 5+. (On Sale Now! )
	The Trumpet of the Swan: A Novel Symphony Dec 4 - 6, 2008 Though Louis is a trumpeter swan, he was born without a voice. Will the brass trumpet that his father gives him bring freedom, fame, fortune, and love? This world premiere Kennedy Center commission is based on E.B. White's classic. Age 7+. (On Sale Now! )
	Jason and the