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It’s all about variety on SPAC stage
SANFORD — Audiences are asking, and Sanford Performing Arts Center is answering the call with a stellar new 2024-2025 season lineup.
Opening its fifth year on stage, SPAC has added a wide variety of new shows while bringing back a few favorites.
“All good shows start in Sanford,” said SPAC Director Brett Williams. “With super-low ticket prices and tons of free parking, the stunning Sanford Performing Arts Center is Southern Maine’s home for world-class performing arts!”
The season opened with Phat Cat Swinger at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9, the ultimate pop-swing band that brings the vibes of all the favorites.
The 2023-2024 season features 14 shows in the Partners Bank Spotlight Series:
HOLIDAY POPS
7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30
Experience the enchantment of the season with the Strafford Wind Symphony at SPAC! Join us for a delightful evening filled with a sparkling array of beloved holiday tunes that will warm hearts and create lasting memories for the entire family. Get ready to be part of the fun with our traditional sing-along! With 55 dedicated musicians, the Strafford Wind Symphony is celebrated for its outstanding performances across Southern Maine and Seacoast New Hampshire. Known for their exceptional music and professional presentation, they’re a cherished favorite at SPAC, returning for their seventh performance on our stage. $12-$16.
THE VICTORIAN NUTCRACKER
2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7
Now a cherished tradition in SPAC’s holiday lineup, Portland Ballet returns with its beloved classic, A Victorian Nutcracker. This enchanting performance offers a fresh retelling of the timeless story, where a young girl’s Christmas Eve dream is sparked by a mysterious nutcracker gift, leading her on a magical journey to the Sugar Plum Fairy’s Land of the Sweets. Unique to Portland Ballet, this version features the first act set in the historic Victoria Mansion, with characters drawn from Portland’s own past. Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, the production adds a local twist to the classic tale. Experience the grandeur of a big-city show right here in Sanford, without the big-city hassles. $46-$55.
US AIR FORCE HERITAGE OF AMERICA BAND
7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14
The United States Air Force Heritage of America Band, renowned worldwide for over 60 years, brings their exceptional musicianship to SPAC. This distinguished group of more than 40 professional Airmen-musicians performs a diverse repertoire, including orchestral classics, Broadway hits, and patriotic favorites. Through the universal language of music, they perform to instill patriotism, build partnerships, and enhance the reputation of the Air Force and the United States. Their performances honor the contributions of veterans and demonstrate American values to the world. Honor our veterans and values with your attendance at this much-anticipated concert. Free admission!
MIKE SUPER
7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31
Mike Super, the only magician in history to win a live magic competition on primetime U.S. network television, brings his extraordinary talents to the stage with a performance that defies belief. As the winner of NBC’s PHENOMENON and a top finalist on America’s Got Talent, Mike has amazed and entertained audiences worldwide, including celebrities like Howie Mandel, Kim Kardashian, and Penn & Teller. Mike’s impressive production features cutting-edge magic and illusions, an interactive UV stage set, video projection, dramatic lighting, and dynamic music. It combines the excitement of a Broadway play, the energy of a rock concert, and the hilarity of a headline comedian, all immersed in visually stunning deception. $48-$62.
JULIA GAGNON
7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Experience the electrifying talent of Maine’s American Idol finalist Julia Gagnon, live on the SPAC stage! After winning first place in Central Maine Idol in summer 2023, Julia auditioned for American Idol, where Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan gave her three emphatic “yeses” and one of only three platinum tickets, sending her straight to Hollywood. Over a month of knockout performances on international television led her to be one of only seven remaining contestants, with the entire state of Maine cheering her on. $30-$44.
KAREN MORGAN
7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25
Karen Morgan, a celebrated comedian known for her engaging and relatable humor, has captivated audiences with her latest CD, Mean Candy, featured on Sirius XM Radio. She has made notable appearances on Dry Bar Comedy and TV ads for Wal-Mart and Zyrtec, and her comedy has garnered rave reviews from top venues across the country. A licensed attorney in Maine and Georgia, Karen blends her professional insight with comedic talent. Living in Cumberland, she humorously reflects on her life: “Being a mom is like being a lawyer who also runs a daycare, but with less evidence and more laundry!” Her unique perspective combines sharp wit with local charm, making her clean, family-friendly performances both entertaining and resonant. $25-$35.
JEEYOON KIM
3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2
Jeeyoon Kim, celebrated for her innovative approach to classical piano, uniquely blends poetry and black-and-white photography, showcasing her commitment to pushing the boundaries of classical music. Known for transforming traditional performances into interactive experiences, Jeeyoon has captivated audiences with her fresh perspective. Her acclaimed 2016 debut album, 10 More Minutes, and subsequent projects have set her apart in the classical world. Through her engaging performances at venues like Carnegie Hall and her podcast Journey Through Classical Piano, Jeeyoon connects deeply with younger audiences, making classical music accessible and exciting for all. $25-$35.
BROADWAY’S NEXT HIT MUSICAL
7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8
Returning to the SPAC stage, Broadway’s Next Hit Musical presents “The Phony Awards,” an original improvised awards show that guarantees a night of spontaneous music and comedy. Audience members suggest made-up hit songs, and master improvisers create a full-blown, improvised musical from the winning song. Expect memorable characters, witty dialogue, and plot twists that will have you laughing and humming for days. With extensive tours across the U.S. and internationally, and a residency at NYC’s Tony Award-winning cabaret club “54 Below,” this acclaimed show offers a unique and hilarious experience. $29-$39.
THE STEP CREW
7 p.m. Saturday, March 1
This extraordinary show that merges Ottawa Valley stepdance, Irish stepdance, and Tap into one electrifying performance. This dynamic ensemble, featuring virtuosic dancers and musicians from The Chieftains, Cherish The Ladies, and Bowfire, offers a unique dance journey. The show highlights the intricate similarities and vibrant differences between these captivating styles. In addition to the stunning choreography, The StepCrew showcases three world-class fiddlers and a five-piece band, comprising top Celtic musicians. Tickets range in price, Their innovative performances have captivated audiences worldwide, blending traditional rhythms with modern flair to create a truly unforgettable experience. $39-$48.
JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER: NEW ORLEANS SONGBOOK
7 p.m. Saturday, April 5
Immerse yourself in an evening that celebrates the legendary composers and inspired songs of New Orleans — where jazz was born and thrives. Pianist Luther S. Allison and vocalists Quiana Lynell and Milton Suggs highlight the rich legacy of innovation that defines New Orleans. $45-$65.
ONE NIGHT OF QUEEN
7 p.m. Wednesday, April 9
Premier tribute band that brings the iconic sounds of Freddie Mercury and his legendary bandmates delivers a thrilling live show featuring all the Queen classics you love, plus the elaborate costumes, high-energy performances, and captivating visuals. $39-$59.
iLUMINATE
7 p.m. Wednesday, April 23
Featuring a cast of elite dancers, iLuminate combines energetic music from pop, rock, jazz, latin, and hip-hop with extraordinary LED lighting effects created by customized suits synced to proprietary software. As scenes unfold in the immersive “Club iLuminate,” audiences are treated to a multi-sensory adventure of music, dance, illusion, and comedy. This family-friendly performance is perfect for all ages, inviting children 5 and older to join in the fun. $47-$57.
NEIL BERG’S 102 YEARS OF BROADWAY
7 p.m. Saturday, May 31
Step into the spotlight with “102 Years of Broadway,” the highly anticipated sequel to last season’s hit, “101 Years of Broadway,” brought back by popular demand. Organized by the acclaimed Neil Berg, this extraordinary musical revue celebrates over a century of Broadway’s greatest hits with a cast of five Broadway stars. Enjoy iconic songs from legendary shows like Les Misérables, West Side Story, and The Phantom of the Opera, alongside the timeless music of Rodgers and Hammerstein, Cole Porter, George Gershwin, Kander and Ebb, and Andrew Lloyd Webber. $37-$51.
Ticket prices vary by show, each with senior, military, student and subscription discounts. Subscribers enjoy a savings of 20 percent off single ticket prices, plus “first dibs” on tickets to next season, priority notification and ticketing for any additional shows this year, and personalized service on your order.
Online ticketing is available 24/7 at www.SanfordPAC.org. The box office is open for in-person and phone ticket sales Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon, and one hour before every performance. Call (207) 206-1126 or stop by for personal assistance.
Opened in 2019, Sanford Performing Arts Center is located on the campus of Sanford High School at 100 Alumni Boulevard in Sanford, Maine. SPAC features 15 shows in its Partners Bank Spotlight Series, plus two school plays; SPAC also hosts many community productions and benefit shows.
