ASU Kerr

Learning to Fly: A Tom Petty Tribute
2025-03-28 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Phoenix)
Learning To Fly, the premier Tom Petty Tribute, celebrates 40 years of the life and music of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.Scott Hallock plays Tom Petty. The band reproduces the authentic sounds of Tom’s voice and the studio album arrangements using the correct instrumentation and authentic vintage instruments by Vox, Fender, Gibson, and Gretsch. Learning To Fly has been together for seven years, delivering stellar performances to large sold-out audiences at BLK Scottsdale, McCormick Railroad Park, Sun City’s Sun Bowl, Cactus Jacks, The Monastery, Mesa’s Venture Out, CB Live, plus local theaters and resort communities. Keeping the memory of Tom Petty alive.

Website (http://scotthallock.com/learningtofly/)

Story Collider
2025-04-16 19:30 - 21:00
The Story Collider: True, Personal Stories About Science CIRCUMSTANCES

Join us for an evening of true personal stories about science that explore how circumstances shape our future. Sometimes we end up in situations we can’t control. How we react and adapt helps us shape our future. Story Collider is proud to partner with the ASU Kerr’s Gather Storytelling series, featuring five amazing stories about making the best of our circumstances.

Hosted by Saad Sarwana and Raj Sivaraman.

Phoenix’s Story Collider programs are hosted by storytelling scientists Raj Sivaraman and Saad Sarwana. Sivaraman is a writer, comedian and research scientist, while Sarwana is a physicist, engineer and award-winning storyteller. They’re passionate about sharing science through humor and heart.

Storytellers

Diva Danielle Danielle is a former broadcast journalist with over 20 years of experience in television, radio and print media. Danielle is passionate about her community, the art of conversation through storytelling and engaging others through humor. Danielle enjoys performing as a stand-up comedian and working her business Diva Strong Media LLC as an entrepreneur. She enjoys volunteering in the community, working with nonprofit organizations. Danielle’s community involvement and positive, infectious personality have earned her special awards and recognition for her ability to inspire others going through difficult life challenges.

Dr. Joe RoselleDr. Joe Roselle is an educator, climate activist, and Chief Operating Officer of Urban Farming Education (UFE), where he leads initiatives to bridge the gap between information and action through climate-smart education. With a doctorate in education, Dr. Roselle is passionate about hands-on, problem-based learning that empowers individuals to become environmental stewards. His leadership at UFE focuses on developing regenerative agriculture programs, strengthening community collaboration and fostering educational partnerships that align with global sustainability goals.

An advocate for holistic land stewardship, Dr. Roselle champions composting, soil health and waste-to-resource initiatives, helping communities transition toward sustainable systems. His vision is to inspire a new generation of changemakers who recognize the value of environmental responsibility and collective action in addressing global climate challenges.

Dr. Saira HamidDr. Saira Hamid is a Presidential Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the School of Earth and Space Exploration at Arizona State University. She earned her doctoral degree in geological and planetary sciences in the Fall 2024. As a planetary scientist, she investigates phenomena such as volcanism, climate and the biosphere to better understand the evolution of Earth and other worlds. Above all, she loves to learn, constantly seeking that exhilarating moment when something suddenly makes sense.

Russell Kinner PE Russell Kinner is a retired Industrial Controls Engineer. In his work, he designed equipment to produce consumer goods and pharmaceutical drugs. Originally from Ohio, he moved to the Valley of the Sun a little over 20 years ago. Married in 1974, Russ has three kids and eight grandchildren “who all know that he’s a nerd.”

Mary Jo Pollack Mary Jo Pollack lives life out loud, not only as an award-winning storyteller but also as a general life philosophy. She has appeared at Odyssey Storytelling, Female Storytelling (FST!), Tellers of Tales Tucson, Phoenix Moth StorySLAM, which she won twice, and numerous virtual shows, including the 2022 Toronto Storytelling Festival. Mary Jo loves the 99-second storytelling format.

About Story Collider Across the U.S., Canada, the U.K. and beyond, Story Collider helps scientists and non-scientists alike craft and share powerful, personal narratives about how science has shaped their lives. From scientists and doctors to comedians, artists, firefighters and bartenders, storytellers from all backgrounds take the stage to share unforgettable moments of discovery, curiosity, and transformation.

Founded in 2010, Story Collider is known for its acclaimed weekly podcast—hailed by The Washington Post as “delightful, devastating, and endlessly listenable.” By blending oral storytelling with science, Story Collider reveals the deep and often surprising ways science impacts everyday life.

Don’t miss this unforgettable night of storytelling and science!

For more information, visit storycollider.org/phoenix.

This is a hybrid program. Tune in to the livestream at our YouTube channel below.

Music Theatre Solo Cabarets
2025-04-29 19:30 - 2025-05-01 19:30
three shows (click each date for tickets):

Tuesday, April 29 at 7:30 p.m.Wednesday, April 30 at 7:30 p.m.Thursday, May 1 at 7:30 p.m.

Music Theatre CabaretsDirected by Toby YatsoMusic Direction by Julian Lamarti (April 30 and May 1) and Helen Kohler (April 29)Cabarets created and presented by ASU Music Theatre Performance students!

Join us for an evening of entertaining songs and stories, cleverly woven together with a personal touch. Each member of the class develops, writes and performs their own 15-minute solo cabaret act with live piano accompaniment, designed to create an intimate musical experience built on the fundamental concepts of cabaret — being yourself on purpose and connecting with the audience. Featuring 23 young artists, these will be presented over three evenings. Cash bar and refreshments available during the event. Ticket proceeds help to fund the annual Music Theatre Showcase trip to New York City.

Content warning: Contains strong language and other material that may not be suitable for young audiences.

Spiritual Thing: Sound Healing
2025-05-10 19:30 - 21:30
Immerse yourself in this intentional, exhilarating and safe container of sonic bliss! Hear and feel why these artists have sold out every ASU Kerr show, and be welcomed into the positive community connecting through Spiritual Thing.

Back for a third round of heart-opening joy, Spiritual Thing brings sound healing to a new level, offering you a one-of-a-kind hypnotic, analog-meets-digital experience crafted to realign mind, body and spirit.

Their sessions feature the vibrations of an amazing menagerie of sacred global instruments including crystal singing bowls, native flutes, resonant gongs, chimes and more.

Spiritual Thing merges layers of lush synthesizers, harmonizing mantras and soothing vocals with the analog warmth of vintage electric piano and the venue’s unique 1899 Steinway grand piano, then lifts them higher with heavenly effects.

Encourage balance for yourself and others as you feel these frequencies and dive deeply into the waves of their meditative soundscapes. This is space music in more ways than one.

IMPORTANT DETAILS: For this event, guests can choose between three ticketing levels:

-Traditional seating is available in the pews.

-For a more meditative experience, you’re invited to bring your own mat for a pit-level floor or upper level space. Most patrons in these sections lie down for the majority of the event. You are welcome to quietly stretch or sit in your space.

Each mat space is about 3’x6′ per person on the venue’s tiled floor; keep this in mind when selecting your mat as capacity is extremely limited. Please note that mat spaces in the GA Upper Level are also on the floor, not in a seat.

For those purchasing mat space tickets, we encourage comfortable clothing and recommend bringing these items as you will be on the venue’s tiled floor:

-yoga or camping mat

-blanket

-eye covering

-pillow

These items will not be provided by the venue. The recommended supplies will help you relax more completely and ease into the restorative sound healing practice.

Each section is general admission, with no reserved spaces.

Doors open at 7 p.m. Arriving by this time is encouraged to get the best selection of space or seating.

$69 for mat space in the pit (GA FLOOR)$59 for mat space on the upper tier (GA UPPER LEVEL)$49 for a pew seat or streaming ticket (GA PEWS)

Purchase tickets labeled “Streaming” once at the ticketing page if you’d like to watch the livestream. Livestream ticket sales end at 6 p.m. on show day, May 10. All ticketholders will receive the unlisted streaming link in a Know Before You Go email on show day, just case you cannot attend in person.

Comedy @ Kerr
2025-05-28 19:30 - 21:00
Get ready to laugh at our bimonthly comedy series, Comedy @ Kerr! Join us in the Kerr Studio in the heart of Scottsdale for stand up comedy from rotating guests. This event is every other month on the last Wednesday.

THIS EVENT IS 18+, bar for 21+ with ID

Sensitive Content Warning: This comedy show may include adult language, controversial topics, and material that some may find sensitive. The performances reflect the comedians’ unique perspectives and are intended for mature audiences. Viewer discretion is advised.

Jordan CerminaraInstagram @handcutcomedy

Stand-up comic, collage artist, and co-creator of The Art Critique Comedy Show {comedians analyze & auction thrift store art} Jordan Cerminara is a working entertainer at clubs and independent venues across North America. From one-liners to carefully crafted bits and full-blown stories, he brings a high-energy style to the stage with clever wordplay, a gamut of goofy voices, and the pipes of a karaoke legend. His debut comedy album, Cuttin It Up, released with Burn This Records hit #1 on the Amazon and Apple iTunes comedy charts.

Saad SarwanaInstagram @saadsarwana

Saad Sarwana, also known as “Pakistan’s #1 Comedian” and the “The Standup Physicist,” has been a comedian for 25+ years. He has performed in every major comedy club in the US, and over 30 states. Saad’s comedy will have you rolling in laughter as he breaks stereotypes while talking about Physics, family and being a Pakistani-American-Muslim living in the US. In 2024 Saad won “Arizona’s Funniest Person with a Day Job” and “AZ Funniest Clean Comedian”. As a senior member of IEEE, Saad has 35+ Published papers and 3 US Patents. As a certified geek, Saad hosts the “Science Fiction and Fantasy Spelling Bee.” Saad is also a four-time MOTH StorySLAM champion and is the Arizona producer for the Science Storytelling show – The StoryCollider. Saad had appeared on multiple TV shows, including over 100 episodes on the TV show ‘Outrageous Acts of Science’ originally airing on the Science Channel and now streaming on Discovery Plus.

Bree AbrahamInstagram @breeabrahamCritics and fans alike agree, Bree Abraham is a stand-up comedian with a sense of humor. Her comedy has been described. She’s performed on stages for audiences. You can see her. When she’s not onstage, you can find her offstage.

Jennifer GiraloInstagram @jennifer_giralo

Jennifer Giralo is a nerdy comedian who delves into all kinds of lore in her stand-up, from the realms of Middle-earth to the struggles of being a middle child. She has opened for Chris Gethard and brought her unique humor to comedy festivals nationwide. She is co-producer of Roll for Charisma: A D&D Stand-Up Show, a chaotic and hilarious blend of stand-up, improv, and RPGs. You can also find her performing at Phoenix Fan Fusion, where she’s been a regular comedian for the past five years.

Sari Beliak host and curatorInstagram @saribeliakSari Beliak is a writer, comedian and storyteller from Phoenix, Arizona. She is a former senior contributing writer to The Onion and has written for major comedy sites like The Hard Times, Reductress, ClickHole and National Lampoon. She was recently a guest writer on your favorite news quiz show “Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me!” on NPR. She was a finalist for NBC’s Late Night Writers Workshop in 2020, which was an otherwise totally normal and chill year.

A Time for Healing, A Time for Change, A Time for Theater
2025-06-20 19:30 - 2025-06-21 19:30
A Time for Healing, A Time for Change, A Time for Theater

Celebrate Juneteenth and enjoy an evening of live theater at ASU Kerr, featuring “Lost Boys Found” by Julie Amparano Garcia and directed by Anastasia Levkun, and “The Moment” by James E. Garcia and directed by Rod Ambrose. This show is presented by New Carpa Theater Co.

“Lost Boys Found” by Julie Amparano GarciaImagine a world where doors open magically, pools of water spiral down porcelain bowls, and metal boxes cook food in minutes. The refugees of Sudan, known as Lost Boys, found that world in the U.S., thousands of miles from their war-torn nation and squalid refugee camps. Lost Boys Found is about the resilience of the human spirit, based on the oral histories of Sudanese refugees who came to Arizona in search of a new life.

This production contains the sounds of explosives and gunfire.

“The Moment” by James E. GarciaNina and her children, Billy and Kelsey, live quiet lives in the D.C. suburbs. Despite her bookkeeping job at the White House and a 20-year career in government, Nina’s never had much interest in politics, though her mom, Shirley, loves to wax on about her days in the Black Panthers. But the family’s life takes a turn on February 10, 2007—the day an audacious politician with “a funny name” announces his quest to become America’s first Black president. This is the story of one family’s awakening and The Moment that changes the course of their lives and history forever.

Two shows (click each date for tickets):

Friday, June 20 at 7:30 p.m.Saturday, June 21 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets:$27 General Admission (includes fees)$11 ASU students and all students 12 and olderKids 12 and under are free

Comedy @ Kerr
2025-07-30 19:30 - 21:00
Get ready to laugh at our bimonthly comedy series, Comedy @ Kerr! Join us in the Kerr Studio in the heart of Scottsdale for stand up comedy from rotating guests. This event is every other month on the last Wednesday.

THIS EVENT IS 18+, bar for 21+ with ID

Sari BeliakIG: @saribeliak Sari Beliak is a writer and comedian from Phoenix, AZ. She is a former senior contributing writer for The Onion and regular contributor to sites like The Hard Times, Reductress, and McSweeney’s. Her comedy album ‘Dead Dog Mom’ (released on Burn This Records) debuted at #1 on iTunes in May of 2025. She was a guest writer on your favorite NPR news quiz show, ‘Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me.’ In 2020, she was a finalist for NBC’s Late Night Writer’s Workshop, which was an otherwise totally normal and chill year.

Steena SalidoIG: @parkerposerSteena Salido is a Phoenix-based comedian born and raised in Nogales, AZ. She has been delighting audiences statewide since starting comedy in 2016. That’s right, Steena started comedy in 2016 (it wasn’t a thing before then). Her energetic humor has been described as “not now, Steena” by several coworkers. When she’s not on stage performing comedy, she can be found off stage performing comedy.

Zaid ArikatIG: @zaidmoarikatZaid Arikat, Phoenix native. Tours the country. As seen on Don’t Tell Comedy, Big Pine Comedy Festival, and at The Comedy Store.

Brian KohatsuIG: @kohatsucomedyBrian Kohatsu is a comedian born and raised in Arizona. He travels around the country performing in clubs, casinos, corporate events and churches. He has a Dry Bar Special and a new YouTube special – Brian Kohatsu WHAM!!

CONTENT WARNING: This show is 18+. You may hear strong language and adult situations.

The Local Spirits
2025-08-09 19:30 - 21:00
THE LOCAL SPIRITS are a Phoenix-based instrumental quartet that puts a creative spin on instrumental music. These four established Phoenix musicians have come together to create a musical group that channels Jazz, Rock, Bluegrass, Country, Blues, Middle Eastern, and World Music flavors into a style of their own. Guitar and mandolin twin harmonies are woven into drum and bass grooves, creating a genre-defying sound that makes this quartet uniquely creative. They released their 5-song EP in May 2024 and have been releasing singles of new material in preparation for a full-length album.

Bill Dutcher (Guitar)Bill has been an independent recording artist and performer for over 35 years. In that time, he has established himself as a nationally recognized solo-acoustic performer, studio musician, and music instructor. He is the producer of the Extreme Acoustic series at the Musical Instrument Museum, now in its tenth year. He has also represented L.R. Baggs Electronics and Lakewood Guitars from Germany at NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) trade shows. Bill’s talents include six- and 12-string acoustic guitar, Hawaiian guitar, and the rare harp guitar.

Geoff Jouas (Drums/Percussion)Two days after graduating high school, Geoff hit the road as a full-time performer with his band EastonAshe. Over six years, he recorded three albums and toured extensively throughout the Midwest and East Coast. He has an endorsement with The Maryland Drum Company, and still plays that kit to this day. Over his 20 years of drumming, Geoff has played with Jay Allan and The Uncommon Good, Rose Colored Eyes, Nameless Prophets, Capital Down, and American Dali. He brings a blend of passion, precision, and deep musicality to every performance.

Mark Miracle (Mandolin)An award-winning mandolinist, Mark Miracle has played Bluegrass/Americana music for over 40 years. His global performances and expertise have made him a sought-after bandmate, guest artist, and teacher. Mark’s style transcends traditional Bluegrass, embracing experimental sub-genres like Newgrass. He brings harmonic magic to the band’s songs through his spontaneous melodic interplay with acoustic guitar, crafting intertwined harmonies that leave a lasting impression.

Tracy Mortimer (Bass Guitar)A Denver native who’s called Arizona home for the past 38 years, Tracy began playing professionally at age 13 and is a graduate of the Musicians Institute Bass Program in Los Angeles, CA. He’s toured with an impressive list of artists and was the bassist for Sugarloaf in 1990. In 2004, he toured with Alligator Records recording artist Long John Hunter, and has also performed with The Drifters, The Platters, The Contours, and Melba Moore. Tracy is also a member of tribute bands Don’t Look Back (Boston) and Listen to the Music (Doobie Brothers), and was a founding member of The Groove Merchants and Chester White and the Soul Pigs.

Instagram

Facebook

Spotify

Trío Guadalevín
2025-10-14 19:30 - 21:00
Trío Guadalevín took shape in 2014 when three distinct musicians gathered to explore a common interest: musical connections between Mexico and the Mediterranean. Employing a wealth of instruments and techniques the trio researches and often reimagines the musical dialogue between Indigenous, European and African cultures, which define Latin American identity. The ensemble takes a fresh, innovative approach to music with deep roots: from the son huasteco and son jarocho of Mexico, to Afro-Oaxacan music, Sephardic Jewish melodies, Spanish fandangos and xácaras, Arab-Andalusian song and Italian ciaccona and tarantella. Instruments including the guitar, oud, theorbo, baroque guitar, vihuela, jarana, quinta huapanguera, harp, bendir, riqq, bombo, pandero cuadrado, pandereta, teponatzli, cajón and more.

The trio’s commitment to education and community outreach parallels its concert performances. It works extensively with multiple school districts with high numbers of students of color and low-income youth, as well as libraries, grassroots cultural organizations. It has adapted its interactive content for K-2, 3-5, 6-8 and 9-12 grade level strands, connecting to concepts from 21st century skills, cultural equity and social studies. The trio presents in English, Spanish or bilingually. Highlights of educational work include shaping children’s poetry into songs and engaging high schools students of World History, Human Geography, Spanish and Music.

Percussionist Antonio Gómez has studied across Latin America and in Morocco, Spain and Italy. He designs arts education programs and curricula as the Associate Director of Education at Tacoma Arts Live and has produced performing arts and curricular content for universities and PBS. Abel Rocha is a Mexico City-born folklorist, singer and multi-instrumentalist who performs music of Mexico, Venezuela, Peru, Chile and Argentina. He is a foundational member of groups including Correo Aereo and Los Flacos and was recently the subject of the KCTS 9 Seattle Emmy-nominated documentary, Los Artistas. August Denhard performs on lute, theorbo, baroque guitar, oud and vihuela. He is a founder of the Eurasia Consort, and has appeared with Baroque Northwest, the Concord Ensemble and Chicago Music of the Baroque. He is the Executive Director of Early Music Seattle, where he has produced events with Jordi Savall, among others.

The trio has collaborated with Ensamble Continuo Tembembe (Mexico City), Orquesta Sonora Barroca (Guadalajara), Orquesta Northwest’s Latino Chamber Music Festival, Washington State poet laureate Claudia Castro-Luna, La Sala Seattle, international authority on Sephardic Jewish and Iberian music, Paco Díez, Israeli percussionist Dror Sinai, world flute artist Gary Stroutsos, Alma Cimarrona Danza Experimental (Mexico City), Bailadores de Bronce (Seattle), Afro-Venezuelan dancer Milvia Pacheco, Northwest Folklife, the Washington Center for Cultural Traditions and others.

The ensemble’s project, Raíz y Rama, to lead encounters in Mexico and share musical dialogue with Latino majority communities of Eastern Washington received a major award from Artist Trust. Other granting agencies recognizing the ensemble and its members include the National Endowment for the Arts, Jubilation Foundation, 4Culture, Seattle Office of Arts & Culture, Jack Straw and Tacoma Office of Arts and Cultural Vitality. It has participated in multi-artist projects including Migrations: Forced & Chosen at the National Race & Pedagogy Conference and Diásporas en Diálogo for Festival Latinx. Early Music festivals to their credit include Berkeley Early Music Festival, Early Music Seattle, and the Early Music America Summit.

Website

Danae Döerken
2025-11-09 16:00 - 17:30
The Greek-German pianist Danae Döerken belongs to the elite of internationally sought-after artists of a new generation, who captivates audiences and fellow musicians alike with her breathtaking technique, extraordinary stage presence and musical depth. Songs and Images explores works inspired by the sounds and sights that shaped their composers. Schumann’s Forest Scenes are short musical depictions of nine settings he experienced when walking through the forest, while Schubert’s Fantasy Op. 15 is based on his own famous song “Der Wanderer” that speaks about trying to find happiness. Debussy captures three vivid impressions in sound, while Bartòk’s Romanian Folk Dances were influenced by folk tunes that he heard on the street. The program ends with two famous works by Liszt, his Love Dream No. 3 and his Rigoletto-Paraphrase, weaving together four operatic themes from his opera “Rigoletto”, singing together in harmonious unity.

Jarabe Mexicano
2025-11-21 19:30 - 21:00
A BORDEÑO SOUL CHRISTMASMake it a “Feliz Navidad” as Jarabe Mexicano brings their fun-loving exuberance to the stage! Standout vocalists Tavo Alcoser, Kevin Lomes, and Eddy Valencia combine with the dynamic stylings of guitarist Esteban Smith and Danny Brito on drums. Bilingual songs and stories from both sides of the border will entertain you! Sing along to classics made famous by Bing Crosby, Brenda Lee, Elvis, José Alfredo Jiménez, and Tony Camargo. Enjoy Jarabe’s breathtaking Spanish rendition of Schubert’s “Ave Maria” in honor of Mexico’s Lady of Guadalupe. You won’t want to miss “A Bordeño Soul Christmas!”

Website (https://www.marianliebowitz.com/jarabe-mexicano)

Comedy @ Kerr
2025-11-26 19:30 - 21:00
Spend the night before Thanksgiving laughing at stand up comedy at Comedy at Kerr!

Patrick Bean brings his sharp East Coast wit and offbeat life stories to the stage. You may have seen him on Zen Comedy, Amazon Prime, Laugh After Dark TV.

We’ll welcome Olivia Witt, a Brooklyn-based comic whose cool, self-aware humor has earned her spots opening for Demetri Martin and Michael Longfellow.

Crickette Gill joins us, Phoenix’s own rising star known for her meta humor and award-winning sets, Funniest Comic in the Valley 2024, Best of Fest, Black Women in Comedy Laugh Fest.

Kick off the holiday weekend! Get some time out of the house and big laughs and great company at Kerr.

CONTENT WARNING: This event is 18+ due to adult language and situations. Bar for 21+ with ID.

This event is building community. Bring sealed, non-perishable food items or hygiene products to donate to Vista del Camino Food Bank. Hotel toiletries and packaged food products are perfect for donation.

Sticks and Tones
2025-12-05 19:30 - 21:00
Winter Journeys: Sparkling Sounds from Many Lands

Immerse yourself in winter’s sparkle with Sticks and Tones!

This holiday season, treat yourself to a concert that is at once innovative, immersive, and full of wonder. Pianist-composer Henry Flurry and percussionist Maria Flurry present an instrumental menagerie where musical celebration from six continents meets classic carols and original works. The result is a lively journey around the world’s holiday traditions, delivered with their signature humor, warmth, and creative spark.

This is no ordinary holiday concert. It unfolds like a world tour in sound. Playing piano, guitar, water, and world percussion, Henry and Maria will move you from the stillness of Gounod’s “Ave Maria” to the joyous festivity of Hanukkah, the sweet anticipation of Japanese Oshogatsu and more.

Experience songs in their original languages, Latin grooves, and familiar tunes, while steeping yourself in poetry and storytelling woven seamlessly into the program. This is a performance designed to kindle connection, curiosity, and joy in all ages!d appreciation for the sparkle of winter traditions worldwide.

An Instrumental Menagerie

On stage, Sticks and Tones create what has been described as an innovative instrumental menagerie. The performance brims with sound:

Piano and guitar lay a foundation of harmony, counterpoint, and song.

Vibraphone shimmers with crystalline warmth, its vibrato lifting audiences into moments of breathless stillness.

Water percussion adds a magical element, transforming bowls and droplets into voices that soothe and surprise.

Cajón, bells, castanets, tambourine, gongs, and cymbals bring global rhythms and festive sparkle.

Jingle bells and hand percussion connect playfully with traditions close to home.

Every instrument plays a role in an immersive soundscape that invites audiences to hear the season anew.

About Maria Flurry

Maria Flurry has soloed nationally, showcasing the marimba, vibraphone, and the expressive range of percussion. Her performances with the Detroit, Baltimore, Spokane, Phoenix, Toledo, and Annapolis Symphonies, as well as her principal timpani roles in the Flint, Flagstaff, and Arizona Philharmonics, attest to her versatility and artistry.

Audiences describe Maria’s vibraphone playing as spellbinding. She draws crystalline warmth from its bars, enveloping listeners in serenity. People tell her, “You made the water sing.” Her innovative techniques highlight the element’s versatility and strength, blending it with the piano’s rich resonance to create a sonic embrace. Whether exploring delicate textures or driving rhythms, Maria reveals the lyrical soul of percussion

About Henry Flurry

Henry Flurry is a composer, pianist, and artistic director whose musical journey began in New Orleans. Steeped in jazz, blues, classical, and sacred traditions, he brings this breadth of influence to everything he plays and writes.

At the piano, Henry creates a harmonic dance of humor, joyfulness, and lilt. His artistry tells a story—one shaped by a lifetime of experiences and a composer’s keen ear. As a composer, he has written works for orchestras, choirs, and chamber ensembles, often blending traditions in surprising ways: weaving flamenco dance rhythms into concertos or crafting lyrical lines for guitar and piano.

As Artistic Director of the Arizona Philharmonic, Henry curates seasons that bring top-tier musicians and innovative programs to Northern Arizona. On stage with Sticks and Tones, he shares his gifts as both storyteller and musician, engaging audiences with warmth and imagination.

About Sticks and Tones

Together, Maria and Henry formed Sticks and Tones to bring the joy of music directly to communities. Their performances have been described as playful, inventive, and transformative, with audiences praising the duo’s ability to blend storytelling, humor, and instrumental virtuosity.

Their artistic reach is grounded in genuine cultural curiosity. Both Maria and Henry have studied with musicians from across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas—learning languages, instruments, and traditions firsthand. These experiences enrich their concerts, giving audiences a deep sense of global connection.

The Best of Broadway: The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber & More
2025-12-13 19:30 - 21:00
The Best of Broadway: The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber & More!

Spend a memorable evening with one of the world’s most beloved musical-theater composers, Andrew Lloyd Webber, interpreted by internationally acclaimed countertenor Terry Barber.

Barber breathes new life into hits from ten of Lloyd Webber’s most beloved shows, reacquainting you with characters from “CATS”, “Jesus Christ Superstar”, “Evita”, “Aspects of Love”, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”, “Sunset Boulevard”, Les Miserables, Hamilton, “The Phantom of the Opera”, and more!

“Barber has Star Quality” – Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Embracing audiences with his character and powerful yet ethereal voice, Barber is known for his extreme vocal range as a rare countertenor. As a past member of the multiple Grammy award-winning group Chanticleer, he has been a soloist at many of the world’s best venues from the Metropolitan Opera to Moscow’s Svetlanov Hall.

He can be heard on recordings alongside artists from Madonna, Jewel, Chaka Khan and Cyndi Lauper to the London Philharmonic. Terry’s recent album and tour, the music of Freddie Mercury was considered for 8 Grammy nominations.

Valencia Baryton Project
2026-01-10 19:30 - 21:00
What Jurassic Park did for the dinosaurs, the Valencia Baryton Project has done for an extinct instrument that once roamed the earth (or at least the concert halls of Europe in Haydn’s day)!

Haydn wrote nearly 170 works for the baryton, including 126 for this combination. In addition VBP has commissioned and performs crowd-pleasing new works that breathe new life into the old instrument.

Founded by Matthew Baker, one of only a handful baryton performers in the world, the Valencia Baryton Project has delighted and fascinated audiences in over 100 concerts throughout North, Central and South America as well as Europe and Asia.

“Delightfully inventive” —The Strad

Learn more at their website (https://www.valenciabaryton.com/)

Lacy J. Dalton
2026-01-23 19:30 - 21:00
Lacy J. Dalton (born Jill Lynne Byrem on October 13, 1946 in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania), is an American alt-country singer and songwriter with a career that has spanned many decades and touched the hearts of millions of music fans. Listen to a Lacy J Dalton album for yourself, and feel the authenticity in her delivery. In March 2017 Lacy J Dalton was inducted into the North American Country Music Association International Hall of Fame, and in 2022 she was awarded a Lifetime Career Achievement Award from the Josie Music Awards, the largest independent music awards show in the country.

In 1979 Lacy was awarded the Academy of Country Music’s Top New Female Vocalist of the Year. Then in 1980, she signed by Columbia Records and quickly rose to national prominence with Crazy Blue Eyes, which raced to #7 on the Billboard Country Charts. She also brought home numerous Grammy nominations and 3 prestigious, back to back (1979, 1980, 1981) Bay Area Music Awards for Best Country-Folk Recordings. Lacy’s collaboration with Willie Nelson on his platinum Half Nelson CD was a high spot for her a s she was the only woman featured on that recording, and was awarded a Platinum Record for her participation. She also received a couple of Gold Records from Hank Williams Jr. in 1985 for her support performances throughout his Five-0 Tour. She toured for years with the likes of the Oakridge Boys, Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, and Hank Williams Jr. to name just a few.

Her hit records are legendary million-airplay cuts: 16th Avenue (the Anthem for Nashville songwriters was voted one of Country’s Top 100 Songs ever by Billboard Magazine), Crazy Blue Eyes, Hillbilly Girl with the Blues, Takin’ It Easy, Everybody Makes Mistakes, and the worldwide hit Black Coffee. Her 2006 album Last Wild Place Anthology went #1 on the World Independent Chart, and a year later went #1 on the American Western Music Chart. In 2019 that same album was awarded the Pete Huttlinger award for Music Excellence by Strictly Country Magazine and the Spirit Awards.

In 2019 Lacy released a 4 song EP titled Scarecrow. When hearing the title song, her good friend Reverend Barbara Ann Fletcher remarked “that song makes you a whole new you, and it makes me a whole new me.” And that’s exactly the response Lacy was hoping for. In 2024 Lacy released an album titled For The Black Sheep, a collection of songs with meaningful lyrics and messages of unity and acceptance for all of us. In addition to her musical career, Lacy has been involved in various service projects through several charitable organizations – namely, the Let ‘em Run Foundation (which she co-founded) working to protect and rehome wild horses and burros, William James Associates Arts in Corrections program in the California prison system, and Rotary International.

Instagram

Facebook

Spotify

Dorsten
2026-01-31 19:30 - 21:00
Dorsten is a captivating folk-rock brother-sister band from Phoenix, Arizona. Influenced by artists like Florence + the Machine, The Lumineers, and KALEO, Dorsten features remarkable vocals from Sophie and masterful instrumentation from Alex.

2024 kicked off with Dorsten releasing an album recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London then touring as support on Mark Ambor’s sold-out World Tour. Dorsten spent this summer releasing more new music and playing major festivals in the USA and Canada.

Dorsten has won multiple awards for their incredible production; they are every step from start to finish – write, record, produce, mix, master, and even creating the album art. Stay tuned for more exhilarating music from Dorsten!

Please check out their music on any music platform and see them at ASU Kerr!

Website (https://dorstenmusic.com/)

Kiara Jayne
2026-02-06 19:30 - 21:00
One of Arizona’s premier vocalists, Kiara Jayne brings her powerhouse voice and magnetic stage presence to the spotlight. Known for her soulful blend of jazz, R&B, gospel and more, Kiara has captivated audiences across the Valley and was recently selected to headline Tempe Center for the Arts’ Jazz Appreciation Month kickoff. Including her talented backup duo The Sugar Mamas, Kiara delivers a concert experience that will be one to remember.

Oscar Peñas
2026-02-07 19:30 - 21:00
Blending jazz, classical and the folk traditions of his native Spain, guitarist and composer Oscar Peñas has carved out a signature voice in modern jazz. Born in Barcelona and now based in Brooklyn, he crafts deeply personal, story-driven compositions that reflect his multicultural background and passion for innovation. A Berklee and New England Conservatory graduate, Penas has led acclaimed ensembles and collaborated with legends like Ron Carter, Esperanza Spalding and Paquito D’Rivera. His upcoming suite “Remote Hoods,” commissioned by the New York State Council on the Arts, celebrates the diversity of New York City. With performances at top venues and a growing discography, Penas continues to push creative boundaries.

This is Oscar’s second appearance at ASU Kerr, he wowed his Arizona audience and we had to have him back!

Website (https://oscarpenas.com/)

Trouble Man - A Tribute to Marvin Gaye
2026-02-14 19:30 - 21:00
Experience The Prince of Soul Trouble Man is a live musical tribute to the legendary Marvin Gaye. With a live band, we bring to you over 16 classic hits of Marvin Gaye from his early days at Motown all the way to his days at Columbia Records.

Step into the timeless groove of Trouble Man, a powerful live musical tribute to the incomparable Marvin Gaye — the “Prince of Soul.” Starring the sensational L. Young and powerhouse vocalist Crystal Starr as Tammi Terrell, this electrifying show features a number of Marvin’s most iconic hits, from smooth ballads to socially conscious anthems that still resonate today.

Website (https://www.troublemanshow.com/)

Los Llaneros
2026-02-15 16:00 - 17:30
Los Llaneros brings the rhythmic music of the Colombian and Venezuelan plains to the stage, featuring harp, cuatro, maracas, vocals and more. Founded in 1978 and led by vocalist Karin Stein with roots in both Indigenous and Spanish traditions, their style features fast-paced rhythms and intricate techniques rarely heard outside the region. Los Llaneros delivers a performance that honors the beautiful culture, history and spirit of the Llanos.

Website (https://www.losllaneros.com/)

Aaron White
2026-02-21 19:30 - 21:00
Aaron White is a Grammy-nominated guitarist, singer-songwriter, Native American flutist and flute maker known for his pioneering role in blending Indigenous music with acoustic and contemporary sounds. A founding member of Burning Sky, he helped shape a genre that earned national acclaim and multiple awards, including Best Flute Recording from the Native American Music Awards.

For nearly three decades, Aaron has performed across Arizona and the U.S., collaborating with legendary artists like Jackson Browne, Taj Mahal and John Densmore. His music is featured in acclaimed films and documentaries, and his handcrafted flutes are on display at the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix. Through concerts, residencies and cultural programs, Aaron continues to share the power of Native music and its ability to heal, inspire and connect.

Website (https://www.aaronwhitemusic.com/)

Charles Lewis Quintet with Diana Lee
2026-02-25 19:30 - 21:00
Swing with a joyful perennial ASU Kerr fave, Charles Lewis Quintet plus 1! This time, the +1 is powerhouse vocalist Diana Lee, known for her crystal-clear tone, dynamic range and performances with legends like Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross and Garth Brooks. She and Charles will be full of fun and surprises in this one! Surround yourself with grooving jazz from Brazil and beyond, brought to life by a band of top-tier musicians led by a living Phoenix legend.

Pianist Charles Lewis was a dear friend to our namesake, Louise Lincoln Kerr, and remains a beloved figure in the Valley arts scene. Come for the music, stay for the stories.

Alicia Waller & The Excursion
2026-02-27 19:30 - 21:00
Join vocalist Alicia Waller for an expansive evening as she brings her ensemble, Alicia Waller and The Excursion, to ASU Kerr. Featuring a lively blend of jazz, soul and vernacular sounds, Waller will perform fresh material from her highly anticipated debut album, Louder Then, along with selections from her acclaimed EP, Some Hidden Treasure (2020). Known for the luminous warmth of her voice and captivating approach to soul, Waller creates a wonderfully expressive sound that has been praised as a synthesis of splendor and depth.

Website (https://www.aliciawaller.com/)

Piano Heist
2026-03-06 19:30 - 21:00
In 2022, lifelong friends Nico Rhodes and Patrick Courtin were taken aback by the stark realization that the piano had fallen out of favour. Determined to restore its luster and reclaim its title as the ultimate instrument, they embarked on an exhilarating journey. Drawing inspiration from the masterpieces of legendary composers, songwriters, and performers over the last three centuries, they crafted a mesmerizing show that spans the spectrum from classical piano masterpieces to vibrant boogie-woogie, romantic ballads, and epic 80s synth battles in Piano Heist: Keys are the Champions! This enchanting experience unfolds as a delightful blend of theatrical magic, humour, audience engagement, touching narratives, a sprinkle of history, and an explosion of musical creativity. Tours have taken them across Canada and the Western U.S., captivating audiences with over 140 performances in both quaint towns and bustling cities. Looking ahead, they are excited to unveil a brand-new Christmas production in 2025: A Very Merry Heistmas!

Website (https://pianoheist.com/)

Winston Churchill - Solo Theatre by Randy Otto
2026-03-08 16:00 - 17:30
WINSTON CHURCHILL – LIVE | A PORTRAIT OF RESILIENCE AND LEADERSHIP

Randy Otto’s portrayal of Winston Churchill is a testament to the power of performance in exploring history. Whether delivering Churchill’s iconic speeches or engaging in on-on-one dialogs during “Ask Winston,” Otto conveys the essence of quick Churchillian wit, fierce tenacity and that never give in resolve, which inspired not only the British people but brought the rest of the free world together, defending liberty and freedom.

Through his dedication, research and passion for storytelling, Otto brings to life the complexities of a remarkable leader, reminding us of the enduring relevance of Churchill’s legacy and the lessons it imparts for future generations.

Dina Preston Band
2026-04-17 19:30 - 21:00
Join the Dina Preston Band as they launch their 2026 “We’ve Been Everywhere” Tour on April 17 at ASU Kerr!

Hailing from Arizona and having performed in 44 countries, the Dina Preston Band brings a fresh, powerful fusion of Americana, blending country, rock, blues, and soul to the Kerr stage. More than just a band, they are storytellers who transform life’s journeys into unforgettable songs, merging global influences with boots-on-the-ground authenticity.

Led by the powerhouse vocals of Dina Preston and the skilled guitar and leadership of her husband Don Ortiz, the band shines with Michael Ghormley’s deep bass grooves, Kenny Skaggs’ multi-instrumental talents and rich vocals, and Henry Lara’s dynamic drumming. Their chemistry and passion create live shows packed with energy, emotion, and connection.

Don’t miss the exclusive VIP experience, only 24 tickets available! VIPs will enjoy:

Premier front-section seating (rows 1 and 2)

A meet & greet with the band and Andre House staff

A signed copy of the We’ve Been Everywhere album or CD

This special night also supports a vital cause: a portion of ticket proceeds will benefit Andre House of Hospitality, a Phoenix nonprofit serving individuals experiencing homelessness. Andre House will also be present at the concert to share more about their mission and impact.

Learn more about Andre House of Hospitality at andrehouse.org

Expect an evening of original songs, crowd-favorite covers, and stories inspired by life on the road and real human experience, all in support of music with a mission.

Instagram

Facebook

Spotify
