Lied's 2025-26 highlights include ‘Frozen,’ ‘Hamlet,’ Yo-Yo Ma

The Lied Center for Performing Arts’ 2025-26 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. 

“Every season at the Lied is unique, combining encore performances from legendary artists with breathtaking talent that has never graced the Lied Center stage,” said Bill Stephan, the Lied’s executive director. “This season, we are thrilled to welcome back many of our favorite artists of all time. Yo-Yo Ma, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Boston Pops, Canadian Brass, Mannheim Steamroller and the Philadelphia Orchestra all return to the Lied Center as many of our community’s favorite artists of all time. Presented alongside Lincoln and Nebraska debuts like ‘Disney’s Frozen,’‘Suffs,’ ‘Hadestown,’ ‘Moana’ and so many more, it all makes for a thrilling season with something for everyone.”

“Create Your Own Season” packages go on sale at 11 a.m. May 13 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 2025-26 season includes:

• “Disney’s Frozen,” Aug. 15-24 (13 performances) — Based on the Academy Award-winning animated film, “Disney’s Frozen” includes all the movie’s beloved songs by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, as well as new music written for the stage. In the mountainous kingdom of Arendelle, Princesses Anna and Elsa grow up sheltered inside their castle, isolated from the world and increasingly distant from each other. When Elsa is crowned queen, the magical powers she has tried to conceal from her sister take control, and she flees into the mountains. As a ferocious winter descends on Arendelle, Anna sets off on an epic journey to find Elsa and bring her home — with the help of hardworking ice harvester Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven and a happy-go-lucky snowman named Olaf. Full of magic, humor and a stunning musical score, “Frozen” is a powerful tale of sisterhood, acceptance and finding the real meaning of true love.
• Metro Jazz Quintet, “Broadway Lights and Hollywood Dreams: Greatest Hits from the Broadway Stage and Silver Screen,” Sept. 26 and 27, 7:30 p.m.; “My Funny Valentine: Songs of Love from the Rich Tradition of Jazz,” Feb. 6 and 7, 7:30 p.m.; “Titans of Jazz: The Music of Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, Stan Getz and More,” April 24 and 25, 7:30 p.m., Lied Center Commons — Following sold-out performances in the Lied’s 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons, the quintet returns to perform “club style” in the intimate setting of the Lied Commons. This group of Nebraska musicians performs a wide variety of music from legendary jazz composers. The events will feature table seating, a candlelight atmosphere, and cocktails available for purchase.
• “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical,” Oct. 8-11 (five performances) — This triumphant story of the queen of rock ‘n’ roll is set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits. “Tina” presents Turner’s journey against all odds to become one of the world’s most cherished artists. Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Katori Hall, the musical features such iconic songs as “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” “Proud Mary” and “Hero.” “Tina” is recommended for ages 14-plus due to scenes depicting domestic violence, racist language, loud music, strobe lighting, haze and gunshots.

Courtesy | Julieta Cervantes

• “Hamlet,” Oct. 17, 7:30 p.m. — Experience William Shakespeare’s exhilarating tale of revenge, love and madness in this groundbreaking collaboration between Toronto dance company Côté Danse and renowned multidisciplinary company Ex Machina. This fusion of theater and dance combines the artistic visions of Robert Lepage (Cirque du Soleil, The Metropolitan Opera) and Côté Danse’s founder Guillaume Côte. Audience members can immerse themselves in a world of deceptive appearances, where ghosts and humans rub shoulders among light and shadows, in this innovative retelling of the classic drama.

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  Marilyn Maye, Oct. 22, 7:30 p.m., Carson Theater — Maye holds the record for the most guest appearances by a singer on “The Tonight Show With Johnny Carson” with 76 performances, leading Carson to dub her the “Super Singer.” An icon who has entertained audiences for more than eight decades, Manhattan’s Queen of Cabaret will also be part of “Carson Tonight,” a celebration of Carson’s 100th birthday, on Oct. 23. Maye is a consummate entertainer who breathes new life into the Great American Songbook. She regularly performs for capacity crowds at New York City’s 54 Below and made her Carnegie Hall solo concert debut in 2023.    

• “Carson Tonight: Johnny’s 100th Birthday Celebration,” Oct. 23, 7:30 p.m. — Relive all the magic and laughter of Johnny Carson’s “Tonight Show” with the talented artists who were featured guests during his 30-year late-night run. This special event, hosted by “Seinfeld” writer Pat Hazell, will feature live performances by magician Lance Burton, comedians Wil Shriner and Carol Leifer, singer Marilyn Maye, variety acts Mike Caveney and Tina Lenert and the UNL Jazz Orchestra under the direction of Greg Simon. It will also include highlights of Carson’s most memorable moments and characters.
• “Moana: The Live-to-Film Concert,” Oct. 28, 7 p.m. — Set sail with Moana in this unforgettable experience. Disney Concerts and AMP Worldwide present this North American tour, featuring a full-length screening of the beloved 2016 film on the Lied Center’s giant screen, accompanied by live performances by an ensemble of top Hollywood studio musicians, Polynesian rhythm masters and vocalists.

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  Courtesy | Lawrence Sumulong

  Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Nov. 2, 7 p.m. — Experience an evening of unparalleled artistry and musical mastery with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, led by nine-time Grammy-winning trumpeter and music director Marsalis. Bringing jazz from the heart of New York City to audiences around the world, this 15-member ensemble celebrates the spirit of the genre and its enduring influence, performing a vast repertoire from historic compositions to newly commissioned works.

• “Dog Man: The Musical,” Nov. 9, 4 p.m. — Based on the hit series by Dav Pilkey, “Dog Man: The Musical” is a hilarious and heartwarming production following the chronicles of Dog Man, who, with the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture. But while trying his best to be a good boy, can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings? Can he catch Petey, the world’s most evil cat, who has cloned himself to exact revenge on the doggy do-gooder? And will George and Harold finish their show before lunchtime? Find out in this epic musical adventure, recommended for ages 6-plus.
• Soweto Gospel Choir, Nov. 13, 7:30 p.m.— In the concert “Peace,” this Grammy- and Emmy Award-winning choir will present a joyful program of South African freedom songs, traditional spirituals and classics. The concert will also feature the music of Aretha Franklin, Harry Belafonte, Peter Gabriel, Kate Bush and Leonard Cohen. For more than 20 years, the Soweto Gospel Choir has celebrated the unique power of African gospel music, establishing itself as an international treasure. Heralded by Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Barack Obama and Oprah Winfrey, the choir excites audiences worldwide with its earthy rhythms, rich harmonies, brilliant costumes and infectious spirit.

Courtesy | Stephen Garnett

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  Courtesy | Jason Bell

  “An Evening with Yo-Yo Ma,” Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. — The legendary cellist returns to the Lied Center for one night only. Ma has recorded more than 120 albums, won 19 Grammy Awards and performed for nine American presidents. His accolades include the National Medal of the Arts and Presidential Medal of Freedom. He also has been a United Nations Messenger of Peace since 2006 and was recognized as the Lied’s inaugural Artist of Distinction.

• “Canadian Brass Christmas,” Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. — The world-famous brass quintet returns to the Lied Center to make the holiday season merry and bright. This concert will featuring original arrangements and signature takes on holiday classics, including “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “Jingle Bell Rock” and “Christmastime is Here.”
• “A Christmas Story: The Musical,” Dec. 16-21 (eight performances) — From the songwriting team behind the Tony Award-winning musical “Dear Evan Hansen” and the Oscar-winning film “La La Land,” “A Christmas Story: The Musical” brings the classic 1983 film to life on stage. Set in 1940s Indiana, a young, bespectacled Ralphie Parker schemes his way toward the holiday gift of his dreams, an official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot range model air rifle. An infamous leg lamp, outrageous pink bunny pajamas, a maniacal department store Santa and a triple-dog-dare to lick a freezing flagpole are just a few of the distractions that stand between Ralphie and his Christmas wish. “A Christmas Story” was nominated for three Tony Awards, including best musical, in 2013.

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• “Mannheim Steamroller Christmas,” Dec. 23, 7:30 p.m. — For 40 years, Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created shows that feature Christmas classics in the distinctive Mannheim Steamroller sound. This program includes 15 musicians playing more than 20 instruments against a backdrop of dazzling multimedia effects, capturing the spirit of the season.
• “Hadestown,” Jan. 16-18 (four performances) — “Hadestown” won eight Tony Awards, including best musical, in 2019, as well as the 2020 Grammy Award for best musical theater album. From acclaimed singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and original director Rachel Chavkin (“Natasha, Pierre and The Great Comet of 1812”), this timeless love story intertwines two mythic tales — of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and of King Hades and his wife, Persephone. “Hadestown” is a haunting and hopeful theatrical experience sure to captivate audiences.

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• Gabriela Montero, piano, Jan. 26, 7:30 p.m. — Montero’s visionary interpretations and unique compositional gifts have garnered critical acclaim and a devoted following on the world stage. Celebrated for her exceptional ability to improvise, she will perform a real-time improvised score for a screening of Charlie Chaplin’s film “The Immigrant,” as well as classical selections, in her Lied performance.
• Cirque Kalabante, Feb. 5, 7:30 p.m. — “Afrique en Cirque” celebrates the beauty and artistry of African culture as acrobats execute gravity-defying moves and human pyramids, accompanied by the contemporary sounds of live Afro-jazz, percussion and kora. This spectacle of vibrant rhythms, innovative choreography and jaw-dropping acrobatics represents the strength, agility and joys of life in Guinea.

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• Van Cliburn Gold Medalist, Feb. 8, 4 p.m. — Once every four years, a new gold medalist emerges from the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. As Nebraska’s official Van Cliburn presenter since 1994, the Lied Center will present the gold medalist for the first time in the state. With such previous winners as Yunchan Lim, Olga Kern, Vadym Kholodenko and Jon Nakamatsu, the Van Cliburn is considered one of the most prestigious contests in classical music.
• “The Best of the Second City,” Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m. — The influential improv troupe, which has produced such comedy stars as Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert and Keegan-Michael Key, returns to the Lied Center to celebrate its 65th year. This high-energy show will blend improv comedy with hilarious songs, classic characters and timeless sketches — handpicked from a rich comedy archive, written by the world’s funniest minds and reimagined by today’s boldest comedic voices.
• “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!” Feb. 19, 6:30 p.m. — Whatever you do, don’t let the pigeon star in his own musical production. With a script by Mo Willems, creator of the best-selling “Pigeon” picture books, this musical is even more fun than staying up late and having a hot dog party. Featuring an innovative mix of songs and feathers, “Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!” is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping.
• Gunhild Carling, Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m. — Known as “the wonder woman of jazz,” this Swedish multi-instrumentalist can do it all. A master of the trombone, bagpipes, recorder, banjo, ukulele, harp and sometimes up to three trumpets at once, Carling brings high-energy vintage swing to the stage with jaw-dropping skill and theatrical flair.
• Boston Pops, Feb. 28, 7:30 p.m. — Led by conductor Keith Lockhart, the Boston Pops, known affectionately as “America’s Orchestra,” will perform a program honoring the United States’ 250th anniversary and celebrating the movie music of iconic composer John Williams. Williams composed the music for more than 100 films, including “Star Wars,” “Harry Potter,” “E.T.,” “Jurassic Park” and “Indiana Jones.” He was also Boston Pops’ 19th conductor, succeeding the legendary Arthur Fiedler. The orchestra remains one of the most recorded, familiar and beloved ensembles in the world today.
• “The Music Man,” March 5-8 (five performances) — There’s trouble in River City, with a capital “T.” This classic musical comedy follows Harold Hill, a fast-talking traveling salesman, as he cons the people of River City, Iowa, into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys’ band that he vows to organize — despite the fact that he doesn’t know a trombone from a treble clef. However, his plans to skip town with the cash are foiled when he falls for Marian, the town’s librarian, who aims to turn him into a respectable citizen. This family-friendly production features the classic songs “Seventy-Six Trombones,” “Trouble,” “’Til There Was You,” “Pickalittle” and “Gary, Indiana.”
• Olga Kern, piano, March 10, 7:30 p.m. — With a vivid onstage presence, dazzling technique and keen musicality, Kern captivates audiences and critics alike. In 2001, she launched her U.S. career at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, winning the gold medal — the only woman in the last 50 years to do so. She has performed at such venues as the Hollywood Bowl, Gilmore Piano Festival and Chamber Music San Francisco and with such ensembles as the St. Louis Symphony, Baltimore Symphony, Detroit Symphony, National Symphony Orchestra, Czech Philharmonic and Filamonica della Scala.
• “Angels Theatre Company Presents: The Rocket Men,” March 12-22, Carson Theater (eight performances) — Six women step into the roles of the former Nazis who helped send Americans to the moon in this NASA story set in North Alabama. Told through the point of view of Heinz Hermann Koelle, a young German rocketeer, the play explores the dynamic relationship of Wernher von Braun and Koelle as they set their sights on space exploration and colonization. A startling new play about the intersection of scientific exploration and moral responsibility, “The Rocket Men” asks what it means to be an American. The production is part of a National New Play Network Rolling World Premiere happening across the country with The Phoenix Theatre, Synchronicity Theatre and Angels Theatre.
• The Fab Four, March 14, 7:30 p.m. — With uncanny, note-for-note live renditions of Beatles’ classics, The Fab Four will transport the audience to the heyday of John, Paul, George and Ringo. This loving tribute band has amazed audiences around the world, picking up an Emmy Award along the way for their PBS special. The Fab Four will perform such classics as “Can’t Buy Me Love,” “Yesterday,” “A Day in the Life,” “Penny Lane,” “Here Comes the Sun” and “Hey Jude.”

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• Stars of American Ballet, March 19, 7:30 p.m. — Stars of American Ballet brings together today’s most remarkable ballet talents to highlight the rich diversity and expressive range of contemporary and classical dance. With a program including George Balanchine’s “Apollo,” Marius Petipa’s “White Swan Pas de Deux” and Twyla Tharp’s “Brel” solo, this performance will celebrate the artistry, emotion and versatility that define the evolving landscape of ballet. Featuring a cast of principal and soloist dancers from the New York City Ballet and other renowned companies, with live music for select pieces, this collective returns to the Lied Center for a glorious evening of ballet masterpieces.
• “Dirty Dancing in Concert,” March 22, 7 p.m. — Enjoy the 1987 classic like never before, digitally remastered and projected on a full-size cinema screen, with a live band and singers performing the movie’s iconic songs. Directly following the film, the performers will throw an encore party sure to take audience members back to the time of their lives.
• The Philadelphia Orchestra, March 26, 8 p.m. — The world-renowned orchestra returns to Nebraska for its third performance at the Lied Center — and its first at the venue in more than 20 years. Praised by The New York Times as “a formidable musician and a powerful communicator” as well as “a conductor with a vision,” Marin Alsop leads the orchestra in a program featuring Ludwig van Beethoven’s dramatic “Leonore Overture No. 3,” Johannes Brahms’ intricate “Variations on a Theme of Joseph Haydn” and Robert Schumann’s masterwork “Symphony No. 2.”

Courtesy | Todd Rosenberg

• Red Hot Chilli Pipers, April 4, 7:30 p.m. — Get ready for a bagpipe-powered concert like you’ve never seen before. The Red Hot Chilli Pipers (yes, pipers) fuse traditional Scottish music with classic rock anthems — from Queen to AC/DC — with explosive energy and humor.
• “Capital City,” April 9-12, Carson Theatre (five performances) — In this searing original play, inspired by Nebraska author Mari Sandoz’s novel of the same name, the Great Depression has divided the people of a fictional Midwestern city into the rich and the poor. To what lengths will the have-nots go to regain their land, homes and dignity? How far will the haves go to make sure they control it all? Performed in Animal Engine Theatre Company’s signature physical style, actors create a detailed portrait of shanty towns, high society balls, striking workers and backroom schemes with just their bodies and song. Animal Engine returns to the Lied Center for this original commission after performing the Willa Cather-inspired epic “Henrietta Solway” in 2023.
• Sons of Serendip, April 16, 7:30 p.m. — This classical-crossover quartet won the hearts of fans and judges alike as finalists on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” with their ethereal and emotionally stirring interpretations of pop music, arranged with a unique blend of vocals, harp, piano and cello. Sons of Serendip has uplifted audiences around the world through collaborations with the Boston Pops and Cynthia Erivo and as part of Oprah Winfrey’s 2020 Vision Tour.
• The Moth, April 17, 7:30 p.m. — Hailed as “New York’s hottest and hippest literary ticket” by The Wall Street Journal, The Moth brings the power of personal storytelling to millions of people each year. In its 25-year history, The Moth has presented more than 50,000 stories, told live and without notes, by people from all walks of life to standing-room-only crowds worldwide. “The Moth Podcast” is downloaded more than 100 million times a year, and the Peabody Award-winning “The Moth Radio Hour” airs weekly on more than 575 public radio stations across the U.S. The Mainstage is the quintessential Moth experience, a two-act show where the storytellers and a notable host share personal stories to be recorded for future episodes. The Moth is recommended for ages 16 and up (or 13 and up, with parental guidance) due to mature content and language.
• REZA, April 18, 7:30 p.m. — REZA has taken the art of illusion to a new level, delivering his rock concert-style magic show to audiences around the world. Back by popular demand, his thrilling production “Edge of Illusion” features such grand-scale illusions as making motorcycles and helicopters materialize out of thin air.

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• “Suffs,” May 5-10 (seven performances) — Behind every powerful woman … are more powerful women. Direct from Broadway comes this new musical about the brilliant, passionate and funny American women who fought tirelessly for the right to vote. Created by Shaina Taub — the first woman to independently win Tony Awards for best book and best score in the same season — the musical explores the triumphs and failures of a struggle for equality that is far from over. “Suffs” won the Outer Critics’ Circle Award for best new musical in 2024. It is recommended for ages 10-plus due to mature language.
• Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, May 22, 7:30 p.m. — Star of stage, screen and record, Noone is regarded as one of rock 'n' roll’s finest and most versatile entertainers. This concert will feature some of the biggest hits of the 1960s, including “I’m Into Something Good,” “I’m Henry VIII, I Am,” “There’s a Kind of Hush” and “Mrs. Brown You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter.” With 20 top-40 hits and more than 60 million records sold, Noone is the real deal.
• Glenn Miller Orchestra, June 18, 7:30 p.m. — The popular big band returns to the Lied Center stage with such classics as “Tuxedo Junction,” “Moonlight Serenade” and “Chattanooga Choo Choo.” Get “In the Mood” for an evening of swing as the 17-piece orchestra dazzles and delights.

For more information on these shows and others, click here.

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