El Dorado's Gold, co-presented with The Bridge Initiative
2026-05-10 14:00 - 16:00 (America/Phoenix)
El Dorado’s Gold tells the story of Tucker Callahan, a Black cowboy who returns to his ranch after betraying his family and seeks redemption. His mother presents him with letters from his late great-grandfather, believing they will change his life because “it’s time.”

Season Closing Singalong
2026-05-11 19:00 - 20:30
Join us as we celebrate the close of our phenomenal season by inviting YOU to the mic! Singers from the community are invited to bring short songs, and/or join full-group singalongs. Musical Collaborator extraordinaire Lincoln Wright will be at the historic Steinway piano, leading the way, alongside TBI’s leaders Amie Bjorklund & Brenda Foley as we toast the season’s success and raise the voices of our community.

To participate as a singer, bring sheet music – 2 minutes, please (solo, duet, groups are all welcome). Sign up at the door, first come, first served. Be prepared to stay for the whole event as we will call singers up throughout the evening.

Co-produced by The Bridge Initiative and ASU Kerr in partnership with Musical Theatre Alliance of Arizona.

This project is funded in part by a grant from Scottsdale Arts with funding provided by the City of Scottsdale.

Emma & James – Formal Concert & Filmed Showcase
2026-05-15 19:30 - 21:15
Join Emma & James Music at ASU Kerr on Friday, May 15, for a special formal filmed showcase — an intimate, elevated evening of original live music where the audience becomes part of a professionally captured performance experience.

Doors and bar open for pre-party at 6 p.m. with light bites, door prize drawings and more! Gary Beckert performs an opening set at 7 p.m. Emma and James take the stage at 7:30 p.m. Arrive early for the fun!

Emma & James Music is a husband-and-wife duo known for soulful, smoky vocals, blues- and rock-influenced alternative originals and songs that range from intimate and haunting to deep and emotionally powerful. Joined by additional musicians for this event, they will bring a fuller live sound to a night designed to feel visually memorable, immersive and special.

Guests are invited to dress up and enjoy more than a typical concert. Set in the unique atmosphere of ASU Kerr, this one-night event is created for music lovers, date nights and anyone who wants to be part of something that feels both meaningful and memorable. Guests are also encouraged to arrive early, settle in and enjoy the venue’s pre-show atmosphere, with the bar open before the performance and through intermission.

With a polished live presence shaped by years of performance experience, Emma & James aim to create an evening that feels both personal and cinematic — a special night out where the audience helps create the energy, atmosphere and captured experience of the show itself.

YouTube: @EmmaAndJames (https://www.youtube.com/@EmmaAndJames)

Facebook: @emmaandjames (https://www.facebook.com/emmaandjames/)

Love Letters, co-presented with Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company
2026-05-23 19:00 - 20:30
Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company Presents…“LOVE LETTERS” By A.R. Gurneyfor a Special Engagement with Two Performances Only,at ASU Kerr in Scottsdale.

Pulitzer Prize Nominated “Love Letters” by A.R. Gurney“You cannot stage a play more simply than this, and yet it’s about everything in life. First love, loss of opportunities, loss of life, loss of love…It’s a beautiful play, and all you do is speak it.”

A finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in Drama (1985), this classic American serio-comedy has been performed and loved around the world. In its simplest form, it is a story of friendship and love that spans fifty yearsall told through love letters exchanged between the two character, Andrew and Melissa. The play explores the lives and relationship two people who grew up together, went their separate ways, but continued to share confidences. As the actors read the letters aloud, what is created is an evocative, touching, frequently funny but always telling pair of character studies in which what is implied is as revealing and meaningful as what is actually written down. This funny and touching work is a unique and imaginative theatre piece which, in the words of the author, “needs no theatre, no lengthy rehearsal, no special set, no memorization of lines and no commitment from its two actors beyond the night of performance.”

Director Mike Arseneault says “this beautiful piece of theatre has been a passion of his for a lifetime across four cities and two countries”. This will be the fifth production of “Love Letters” that he has produced in the United States and Canada. Audiences fall in love with the characters, the relationship and the situations. It’s storytelling at its finest. “The audience will laugh out loud and be moved to tears as the stories and incredible friendship unfolds.” says director Mike Arseneault.

A perfect way to celebrate love! Get ready for some belt laughs and bring a tissue or two. Thanks to the enduing power of “Love Letters”, it has attracted many international actors and famous couple to play the roles of Andrew and Melissa. They include Holland Taylor and A.R. Gurney (original cast), Joanna Gleason and John Rubinstein, Kathleen Turner and John Rubinstein, Colleen Dewhurst and Jason Robards, Mia Farrow and Brian Dennehy, Carol Burnett and Brian Dennehy, Alan Alda and Candice Bergen, Martin Sheen and Anjelica Huston, Stacy Keach and Diana Rigg, Robert Wagner and Jill St. John, Steve Allen and Jayne Meadows, Gerald McRaney and Delta Burke, Matthew Broderick and Laura Benanti, Brooke Shields and John Slattery. Other famous film and TV performers Hollywood Legends: Elizabeth Taylor, James Earl Jones, Charlton Heston, Julie Harris, Christopher Walken, Sigourney Weaver, Sissy Spacek, Laura Linney and Steven Weber (who starred in the 1999 television adaptation), Jeff Daniels, William Hurt, Molly Ringwald, Andrew McCarthy, Whoopi Goldberg, Timothy Dalton and Keir Dullea.

This production presents the script as originally written, which includes outdated cultural depictions, strong language, and mature themes. Recommended for audiences Ages 16+.

This volunteer production is directed by Mike Arseneault, artistic director and executive producer of Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company and presented in collaboration with ASU Kerr.

Love Letters is produced with special licensing permission from Concord Theatricals, 250 West 57th Street, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10107-0102.

PERFORMANCE DETAILS:WHEN (TWO PERFORMANCES ONLY):Saturday, May 23, 2026 – 7:00 pm evening performanceSunday, May 24, 2026 – 2:00 pm matinee performance

WHERE (VENUE):ASU Kerr Cultural Center, 6110 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85253

TICKETS:Tickets are $27 (general admission) or $34 (reserved) excluding ticket fees. Tickets are available to purchase in advance online through Ticketmaster or by telephone by calling the ASU KERR Box Office during Box Office hours (Wednesday – Friday, 10am-5pm) at 480-596-2660. Ticket fee includes parking.

LINK TO TICKETS: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/1900646DFB83EEE9

CAST BIOGRAPHIES:To Be AnnouncedThe cast for this production features Amy Sperry as Melissa Gardner and Mike Arseneault as Andrew Makepeace Ladd III. Biographies will follow and be shared on social media.

ABOUT: SCOTTSDALE OLD TOWN THEATRE COMPANYScottsdale Old Town Theatre Company. (OTTC) is a new volunteer community theatre group produced by RecreateNow LLC that creates FRESH THEATRE. We are honored to perform at the historic ASU KerrCultural Center and share Louise Kerr’s passion for trailblazing as well and building a vital home and community for theatre arts.

Scottsdale OTTC’s inaugural production was the acclaimed original musical revue Songs From Film, which ran for four performances, January 15-18, 2026, at the historic ASU Kerr Cultural Center inScottsdale, Arizona.

The purpose of Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company is to entertain, provoke, educate, inspire and move our audiences with our creative interpretations and storytelling.

Scottsdale OTTC Artistic Director Mike Arseneault was previously founder and artistic director for IOCO Players Theatre in Port Moody located in greater Vancouver, British Columbia. He has been active as a performer, director, and producer on theatre Boards for forty years in Toronto, Portland Oregon, Vancouver, B.C. and Scottsdale, Arizona.

To get involved or become a show sponsor of Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company, contact them by email at scottsdaleottc@gmail.com.

Find out and follow Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company online at:Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/scottsdaleoldtowntheatrecompanyInstagram: www.instagram.com/scottsdaleoldtowntheatreco

Love Letters, co-presented with Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company
2026-05-24 14:00 - 15:30
Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company Presents…“LOVE LETTERS” By A.R. Gurneyfor a Special Engagement with Two Performances Only,at ASU Kerr in Scottsdale.

Pulitzer Prize Nominated “Love Letters” by A.R. Gurney“You cannot stage a play more simply than this, and yet it’s about everything in life. First love, loss of opportunities, loss of life, loss of love…It’s a beautiful play, and all you do is speak it.”

A finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in Drama (1985), this classic American serio-comedy has been performed and loved around the world. In its simplest form, it is a story of friendship and love that spans fifty years all told through love letters exchanged between the two character, Andrew and Melissa. The play explores the lives and relationship two people who grew up together, went their separate ways, but continued to share confidences. As the actors read the letters aloud, what is created is an evocative, touching, frequently funny but always telling pair of character studies in which what is implied is as revealing and meaningful as what is actually written down. This funny and touching work is a unique and imaginative theatre piece which, in the words of the author, “needs no theatre, no lengthy rehearsal, no special set, no memorization of lines and no commitment from its two actors beyond the night of performance.”

Director Mike Arseneault says, “This beautiful piece of theatre has been a passion of his for a lifetime across four cities and two countries”. This will be the fifth production of “Love Letters” that he has produced in the United States and Canada. Audiences fall in love with the characters, the relationship and the situations. It’s storytelling at its finest. “The audience will laugh out loud and be moved to tears as the stories and incredible friendship unfolds” says director Mike Arseneault.

A perfect way to celebrate love! Get ready for some belt laughs and bring a tissue or two. Thanks to the enduing power of “Love Letters”, it has attracted many international actors and famous couple to play the roles of Andrew and Melissa. They include Holland Taylor and A.R. Gurney (original cast), Joanna Gleason and John Rubinstein, Kathleen Turner and John Rubinstein, Colleen Dewhurst and Jason Robards, Mia Farrow and Brian Dennehy, Carol Burnett and Brian Dennehy, Alan Alda and Candice Bergen, Martin Sheen and Anjelica Huston, Stacy Keach and Diana Rigg, Robert Wagner and Jill St. John, Steve Allen and Jayne Meadows, Gerald McRaney and Delta Burke, Matthew Broderick and Laura Benanti, Brooke Shields and John Slattery. Other famous film and TV performers Hollywood Legends: Elizabeth Taylor, James Earl Jones, Charlton Heston, Julie Harris, Christopher Walken, Sigourney Weaver, Sissy Spacek, Laura Linney and Steven Weber (who starred in the 1999 television adaptation), Jeff Daniels, William Hurt, Molly Ringwald, Andrew McCarthy, Whoopi Goldberg, Timothy Dalton and Keir Dullea.

This production presents the script as originally written, which includes outdated cultural depictions, strong language, and mature themes. Recommended for audiences Ages 16+.

This volunteer production is directed by Mike Arseneault, artistic director and executive producer of Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company and presented in collaboration with ASU Kerr.

Love Letters is produced with special licensing permission from Concord Theatricals, 250 West 57th Street, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10107-0102.

PERFORMANCE DETAILS:WHEN (TWO PERFORMANCES ONLY):Saturday, May 23, 2026 – 7:00 pm evening performanceSunday, May 24, 2026 – 2:00 pm matinee performance

WHERE (VENUE):ASU Kerr Cultural Center, 6110 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85253

TICKETS:Tickets are $27 (general admission) or $34 (reserved) excluding ticket fees. Tickets are available to purchase in advance online through Ticketmaster or by telephone by calling the ASU KERR Box Office during Box Office hours (Wednesday – Friday, 10am-5pm) at 480-596-2660. Ticket fee includes parking.

LINK TO TICKETS: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/1900646DFC65F00D

CAST BIOGRAPHIES:To Be AnnouncedThe cast for this production features Amy Sperry as Melissa Gardner and Mike Arseneault as Andrew Makepeace Ladd III. Biographies will follow and be shared on social media.

ABOUT: SCOTTSDALE OLD TOWN THEATRE COMPANYScottsdale Old Town Theatre Company. (OTTC) is a new volunteer community theatre group produced by RecreateNow LLC that creates FRESH THEATRE. We are honored to perform at the historic ASU KerrCultural Center and share Louise Kerr’s passion for trailblazing as well and building a vital home and community for theatre arts.

Scottsdale OTTC’s inaugural production was the acclaimed original musical revue Songs From Film, which ran for four performances, January 15-18, 2026, at the historic ASU Kerr Cultural Center inScottsdale, Arizona.

The purpose of Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company is to entertain, provoke, educate, inspire and move our audiences with our creative interpretations and storytelling.

Scottsdale OTTC Artistic Director Mike Arseneault was previously founder and artistic director for IOCO Players Theatre in Port Moody located in greater Vancouver, British Columbia. He has been active as a performer, director, and producer on theatre Boards for forty years in Toronto, Portland Oregon, Vancouver, B.C. and Scottsdale, Arizona.

To get involved or become a show sponsor of Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company, contact them by email at scottsdaleottc@gmail.com.

Find out and follow Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company online at:Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/scottsdaleoldtowntheatrecompanyInstagram: www.instagram.com/scottsdaleoldtowntheatreco

Comedy @ Kerr
2026-05-27 19:30 - 21:00
Get ready to laugh at our bimonthly comedy series, Comedy @ Kerr!

We collect donations for Vista del Camino Food Bank. Hygiene items are especially needed but non-perishable food items are great, too!

This event is every other month on the last Wednesday.

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

Leigh CummingsLeigh Cummings has been delighting audiences with her high-energy stand-up comedy for over a decade. She was born and raised in Tucson, AZ, but now calls the bright lights of Phoenix home. She was a semi-finalist in Arizona’s Funniest Comedian contest and was selected for the Four Corners Comedy Festival. She enjoys performing for a variety of audiences as her comedy is versatile and includes clean comedy sets and performances for women’s groups. Leigh shares the humor in life along with the joys and pains of singledom and womanhood.

Nicole RiesgoA former English teacher, security guard, and 2nd place winner in a toddler beauty pageant, Nicole is an Arizona-based comedian praying she doesn’t miss the light. Described as “oblivious, but in a good way” by friends, as a “detriment to the workplace” by her employer, and as “alert and well-nourished” by her physicians, Nicole has yet to meet a situation she can’t make awkward. When she isn’t third-wheeling her parents at local casinos and Mexican restaurants, she’s spending her evenings tipping bartenders to be her friends, trading traumas with strangers, and reminiscing about her flip-phone-owning days. Find her on Instagram as duchessofsouthtucson, where she enjoys curating stories for former coworkers, loyal bots, and brand-new comedy show friends.

Chase HarterChase Harter is from Phoenix, Arizona his comedy is best known for the erratic levels of ADHD sparking his many interests (which include but are not limited to: Muay Thai Fighting, Oil Painting, niche ways to exercise, dogs, thrifting, archery, etc.) Mixing feel-good sarcasm with a smile while easily navigating being openly gay in a red state, but not making it his full personality, his clever delivery and quick wittedness is unmatched. Chase was recently awarded Best Of Fest at Big Pine Comedy Festival in Chandler.

Peter JordanPeter Jordan is a comedian.

Sari BeliakSari 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.’ She hosts and curates a comedy show at the historic ASU Kerr Cultural Center in Old Town Scottsdale. Sari has performed at Bird City Comedy Festival, Altercation Comedy Fest, Big Pine Comedy Festival, Treefort, and Laugh Riot Grrrl Fest. In 2020, she was a finalist for NBC’s Late Night Writers Workshop, which was an otherwise totally normal and chill year.

CONTENT WARNING: This show is 18+. There may be strong language and adult situations.

Spiritual Thing: Sound Healing
2026-05-30 19:00 - 21:00
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 fourth 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. If your mat is bigger you may not be accommodated. 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 6:30 p.m. Arriving by this time is encouraged to get the best selection of space or seating.

$78 for mat space in the pit (GA FLOOR)$68 for mat space on the upper tier (GA UPPER LEVEL)$48 for a pew seat (GA PEWS)

Livestream ticket also available for $36! Watch from the comfort of your own space, no in-person attendance for this ticket type. You must email boxoffice@asukerr.com after purchase to provide the name on the ticket order and the email address associated with your YouTube account. You must be signed into the same YouTube/Google account to view the livestream.

buy livestream ticket

Let's Rock: From Shakespeare to Tupac
2026-06-27 19:30 - 21:30, 2026-06-28 14:00 - 16:00
Conceived by Rod Ambrose | Directed by James E. Garcia

Visionary Phoenix cultural leader Rod Ambrose invites you to experience the transformative power of spoken word theatricalized in Let’s Rock: From Shakespeare to Tupac. This vibrant “Word Music” showcase features the likes of renowned jazz trumpeter Gabriel Bey, Culture-Hub PHX founder and poet Chris “Truth-B-Told” Owens, artist, poet and choreographer, Therosia Reynolds and spoken word artist and poet Rashaad Thomas. Under the charged direction of James E. Garcia, the cast creates a tapestry of voices, bridging the eloquence of William Shakespeare to the raw, urban poetry of Tupac Amaru Shakur. The show is infused by themes—love, justice, struggle and the enduring activism of hope—that have echoed across generations. Let’s Rock… is more than a performance, it’s a tribute to language as a force for change, a testament to the lasting impact of storytelling and the celebration of artistry and activism.

Comedy @ Kerr
2026-07-29 19:30 - 21:30
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 IDContent warning: There may be strong language and descriptions of adult situations.

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.

Mo Kitazumi Instagram @mokitazumiMo Kitazumi entered the comedy scene during a midlife crisis, pursuing stand-up comedy one open mic at a time. She is an elementary school librarian by day and a stand-up comedian by night. Her comedy draws on her experiences as a woman, family life and the misadventures that happen because she always says, “Yes! And…?” Follow her on Instagram for the latest information on upcoming shows.

Wolf BrownInstagram @gilariouswolfWolf Brown is a Native American stand-up comedian from the village of Bapchule on the Gila River Indian Community. His comedy blends one-liners, storytelling and roasts, and he regularly performs throughout Arizona, including at casinos.

Sharing the experiences of a “rezzy” Native navigating a modern world, his material resonates with a wide range of audiences. He recently gained viral attention on TikTok. Follow him on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @gilariouswolf. His comedy album “Gilarious” (pronounced “hilarious”), was released in September 2024.

Ashley RoseInstagram @ashleyrosecomedyAshley Rose, a Los Angeles native now based in Phoenix, performs throughout the Valley at venues including Stand Up Live, The Improv, Mic Drop Mania and Stir Crazy Comedy Club. An empty nester and mom to three French bulldogs, she brings a sarcastic, deadpan perspective to a wide range of relatable topics. She is the winner of the 2023 Funniest Person With a Day Job comedy competition.

MAOSHO
2026-09-06 16:00 - 18:00
MAOSHO brings together two acclaimed Japanese musicians whose backgrounds span traditional and contemporary music. Jazz pianist and trumpeter Mao Sone joins shamisen performer and folk singer Sho Asano for a program that blends Japanese folk traditions with jazz improvisation.

The duo combines the sounds of Tsugaru shamisen, piano, trumpet and voice in performances that explore connections between Japanese music and jazz. Following a series of well-received concerts in New York City in 2025, MAOSHO continues to share a collaboration that bridges musical traditions while creating something new.

Performers

Mao Sone, piano and trumpet

Sho Asano, shamisen and voice

Program includes

Sakura Sakura Fantasy — Mao Sone

HAYASHI — Mao Sone

My Favorite Things — Richard Rodgers (arr. Sho Asano)

Yagibushi — Japanese folk song (arr. Mao Sone)

About Mao SoneMao Sone is a Japanese pianist, trumpeter and composer known for his work across jazz and contemporary music. A graduate of Berklee College of Music and the Berklee Global Jazz Institute, he performs internationally as both a pianist and trumpeter.

About Sho AsanoSho Asano is a Japanese shamisen performer, folk singer and composer. A former child prodigy and award-winning performer, he has appeared throughout Japan and abroad, bringing traditional Japanese music to audiences around the world.

Feng E
2026-09-23 19:30 - 21:30
Taiwanese ukulele player Feng E returns to the United States.

Following a showcase at the 2026 Folk Alliance International Conference in New Orleans, Feng E brings his live performance to ASU Kerr. The concert offers audiences an opportunity to experience the skill and creativity that have made him one of the most widely recognized young ukulele performers in the world.

He gained international recognition at a young age through appearances on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Asia’s Got Talent and America’s Got Talent, and has built an online audience of nearly 1 million YouTube subscribers.

Rachael Gold and Shannon Wallace
2026-11-06 19:30 - 21:30
Tickets for our first release of 2026-27 shows go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. July 28. Want early access? Become a Friend of Kerr by joining the VIP Club! Learn more at https://asukerr.com/vipclub.

With decades of international performance experience, Shannon Wallace and Rachael Gold blend their talents into a mix of musical genres. They move across jazz, contemporary, Broadway, classical and original compositions while incorporating humor and storytelling throughout the performance.

The show is shaped by both the performers and the audience. Designed to connect with everyone in the room, each performance is engaging and personal.

About the artists:

Rachael Gold

Rachael Gold is a composer and producer, as well as a studio and touring musician. Over the past 30-years, she has performed extensively as a multi-instrumentalist and singer throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.

She has recorded, toured and performed with many entertainers including Kathryn Crosby, Bernadette Peters, Frankie Valli, Bob Newhart, Rob Schneider (SNL), Sister Sledge, The Four Tops, The Platters, Donna Summer and William Joseph (David Foster/producer).

Rachael studied at Berklee College of Music in Boston. She graduated from the Dick Grove School of Music in Los Angeles where she studied arranging and composition under legendary composers such as Dick Grove, Nelson Riddle, Clare Fischer, Tom Scott and Lalo Schifrin.

Gold has produced, written and performed on albums, jingles, TV and film. Her music has been performed and recorded by Mickey Mouse, Sarah Vaughan, Sister Sledge, Eye on Hollywood, and locally at the Arizona Science Center and Fort McDowell Casino.

Rachael’s favorite quote:

“It’s all about the flow.” – Kenny Werner

For more about Rachael: rachaelnicolegold.com

Shannon Wallace

As a professional jazz vocalist, Shannon Wallace has performed nationally and internationally throughout Europe, Asia and North America over the past 30-years.

Whether performing as the front woman of a 20-piece Big Band Orchestra or leading her own jazz ensembles, Shannon has worked with George Benson, Walt Weiskopf (Steely Dan), Gloria Reuben (film and TV actress and singer), Donny Osmond, Grammy-winning jazz musicians Marty Ashby and Lewis Nash, and Charles Lewis, a beloved local jazz musician and Arizona Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame recipient.

Shannon continues to work in television, music, entertainment, music education and health care. She can be heard and seen as a radio, television and internet host, as well as a jingle singer, but her most passionate work is being in service to humanity through music.

Shannon is a certified dementia practitioner and founder and CEO of Musical Memory Care, an in-person, live online and on-demand interactive music and movement workshop that has served participants in 40 countries.

Shannon’s favorite quote:

“Ignorance and arrogance are the artist’s indispensable allies. She must be clueless enough to have no idea how difficult her enterprise is going to be, and cocky enough to believe that she can pull it off anyway.” – Steven Pressfield

For more about Shannon:

www.ShannonWallacesings.com

www.MusicalMemoryCare.com

www.ShannonWallaceMarketing.com

Duo Fuerza, featuring James D'Leon and Alwen Yeung
2026-11-13 19:30 - 21:30
Tickets for our first release of 2026-27 shows go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. July 28. Want early access? Become a Friend of Kerr by joining the VIP Club! Learn more at https://asukerr.com/vipclub.

Duo Fuerza is a piano duo featuring international Steinway artist James D’León and pianist Alwen Yeung. Their four-hand piano concerts combine precision and visual artistry, and their coordination at one keyboard is as engaging to watch as it is to hear.

Praised for “exciting pianism filled with highly powerful emotion” and “sensitive playing and touch,” the duos programs span a diverse repertoire. From Johann Sebastian Bach and Franz Schubert to Astor Piazzolla and George Gershwin, Duo Fuerza showcases the range of four-hand piano performance. Their performances emphasize color, nuance and narrative, transforming familiar works into a shared musical experience.

A hallmark of their concerts is the “Conversations from the Piano” format, where the artists share background on each piece, helping audiences understand the music.

Beyond the stage, Duo Fuerza supports education and community engagement through residencies, masterclasses and outreach initiatives. As ensemble-in-residence at Georgia Southwestern State University, the duo performs nationwide, focusing on collaboration and musical connection.

It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
2026-11-19 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-11-20 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-11-21 14:00 - 16:00, 2026-11-21 19:00 - 21:00
Tickets for our first release of 2026-27 shows go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. July 28. Want early access? Become a Friend of Kerr by joining the VIP Club! Learn more at https://asukerr.com/vipclub.

“It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play”, adapted by Joe Landry, reimagines the classic film as a 1940s radio broadcast performed live on stage, with a small cast of actors playing multiple characters and using vintage sound effects to tell the story of George Bailey.

The play captures the heartwarming tale of George’s life and the impact he has on his community, celebrating the power of community, hope and second chances. Filled with heart, humor and theatrical magic, this holiday event is a seasonal tradition for audiences of all ages.

Presented by Scottsdale Old Town Theatre Company, which also produced “Love Letters” by A.R. Gurney and the original musical revue “Songs From Film.”

Presented in collaboration with ASU Kerr for four performances Nov. 19-21, 2026.

Frank Ferrante's GROUCHO
2026-11-22 15:00 - 17:30
Don’t miss this Groucho Marx tribute show! Dubbed “nothing short of masterful” by the Chicago Tribune, award-winning actor Frank Ferrante recreates his PBS, New York and London acclaimed stage portrayal of the legendary comedian in this fast-paced, 90 minutes of hilarity.

The two-act comedy consists of the best Groucho one-liners, anecdotes and songs including “Hooray for Captain Spalding,” and “Lydia, the Tattooed Lady.” The audience literally becomes part of the show as Ferrante ad-libs his way throughout the performance in grand Groucho style.

Accompanied by his onstage pianist, Ferrante portrays the young Groucho of stage and film and reacquaints us with the likes of brothers Harpo, Chico, Zeppo and Gummo, Charlie Chaplin, W.C. Fields and dignified Marx foil, Margaret Dumont. A show perfect for all ages!

Blue Bayou: A Linda Ronstadt Tribute
2027-01-23 19:30 - 21:30
Tickets for our first release of 2026-2027 shows go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 28. Want early access? Become a Friend of Kerr by joining the VIP Club! Learn more at https://asukerr.com/vipclub.

Arizona’s Big Zephyr Band brings a rich blend of rock, blues, country, soul and R&B to the ASU Kerr stage for an evening of timeless grooves and heartfelt musicianship, with songs that feel both familiar and freshly alive. On this special night, the band turns its focus to the extraordinary life and legacy of Linda Ronstadt.

Formed in the Valley, Big Zephyr is known for its tight musicianship, thoughtful arrangements and the natural chemistry that comes from years of performing together. Drummer and bandleader Bill Babin anchors the group with crisp, steady rhythms, while Jaime Lee Frank delivers powerful vocals, expressive guitar work and flute textures. Mike Edwards drives the bass and vocals, Russ Edwards and JP Escobedo add layered guitars and harmonies and Dave Herring rounds out the sound on keyboards and vocals.

“The Blue Bayou: A Linda Ronstadt Tribute” celebrates one of the most versatile and beloved voices in American music. A 12-time Grammy Award winner and Kennedy Center Honoree, Ronstadt’s career moved effortlessly across rock, country, Latin music and the Great American Songbook as it shaped generations along the way.

From Laurel Canyon-era rock classics to country duets with Dolly Parton and Emmylou Harris, heartfelt traditional Mexican songs and lush Nelson Riddle arrangements, this performance honors the full spectrum of her artistry. Whether you know her as a rock icon, a voice of Americana or a trailblazer who refused to be confined by genre, this evening invites you to rediscover the depth and beauty of her legacy.

Join us for a soaring night of music and celebration where timeless songs meet a live performance designed for listeners of every generation, from lifelong fans to the next wave of music lovers discovering Linda for the first time.

Big Pete Pearson
2027-02-13 19:30 - 21:30
Tickets for our first release of 2026-2027 shows go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 28. Want early access? Become a Friend of Kerr by joining the VIP Club! Learn more at https://asukerr.com/vipclub.

Join in celebrating Big Pete’s 80 years on stage and his 90th birthday!

Big Pete Pearson was born on October 4, 1936, and was raised in Austin, Texas. At nine years old he gave his first performance at a local bar. He became a regular at juke joints such as the Victory Grill, Charlie’s Playhouse, Big Mary’s Bar & Grill, Ernie’s Chicken Shack and Sam’s Showcase. Big Pete has not left the stage since. He is a veteran performer and songwriter of 80 years and has been on many festival and club stages throughout the world.

Pete came to Phoenix In the 1950s and has been involved in the Phoenix blues scene ever since. His physical stature and strong voice command attention. He is a father figure to many blues men and women who have developed their skills while playing in his band. Being one of the first two people inducted into the Arizona Blues Hall of Fame in 1995 and in the Arizona Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, Big Pete is well-known throughout the world.

In recent years, Big Pete has been performing with his European band, The Gamblers. In the United States, he performs with his other band, The Big Pete Pearson Blues Band.

Over his career, Big Pete has worked with musicians such as Ray Charles, B.B. King, Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, Tina and Ike Turner, Big Joe Turner, Etta James, Aaron Neville and the Neville Brothers, Koko Taylor, Gate Mouth Brown, Johnny Ace, T.D. Bell, Big Mama Thornton, T-Bone Walker, Screamin’ J. Hawkins, Pinetop Perkins, Joey DeFrancesco, Buddy Guy, Janiva Magness, Erbbie Bowser, Blues Boy Hubbard, Candye Kane and many others.

Big Pete has recorded several albums. His most notable releases include “One More Drink,” “I’m Here Baby” — which reached No. 1 worldwide and won best blues album at the Independent Music Awards in 2007 — “Finger in Your Eye,” and his 2009 release, “The Screamer.” Since its release, “The Screamer” has reached No. 1 on blues charts worldwide.

In April 2012, Big Pete released “Choose,” his first album recorded with the Italian blues band, The Gamblers.

Today, Big Pete can be seen performing in Europe with The Gamblers. Songs from his latest album, “Stepping Out,” are played on the TV shows “Chicago Fire” and “Chicago P.D.”

Pete’s band:

Lead guitar: Scotty Spenner

Rhythm guitar: Jim Robertson

Bass: Curt Arndt

Saxophone: Chris Scowron

Drums: Claire Griese

Dave Stamey
2027-02-25 19:30 - 21:30
Tickets for our first release of 2026-2027 shows go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 28. Want early access? Become a Friend of Kerr by joining the VIP Club! Learn more at https://asukerr.com/vipclub.

Dave Stamey has made it his life’s work to celebrate the rural American West. Over the past two decades, he has recorded 11 albums of original music, traveled hundreds of thousands of miles and performed thousands of shows in pursuit of that mission.

He lives in the far northeastern corner of Tulare County, California, where the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains begin just outside his back door.

This is cowboy poetry and western song from one of the great heroes of the genre. Dave has sold out every previous ASU Kerr show and prices will go up as the show gets closer; purchasing your tickets ASAP is highly recommended so you don’t miss out on this one!

Charles Lewis Quintet + 1
2027-03-03 19:30 - 21:30
Tickets for our first release of 2026-2027 shows go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. July 28. Want early access? Become a Friend of Kerr by joining the VIP Club! Learn more at https://asukerr.com/vipclub.

Join us for an evening of Latin jazz with perennial ASU Kerr favorite Charles Lewis. Settle in for an uplifting night of lively rhythms and glorious grooves inspired by the music of Latin America, performed by a true Phoenix jazz legend.

Pianist Charles Lewis shares a special connection to ASU Kerr, having been a close friend of our namesake, the late Louise Lincoln Kerr. Through his engaging stage presence and charming storytelling, he brings to life the music, the history and spirit of the venue itself.

With lush ensemble arrangements and an inviting jazz-club atmosphere, this performance promises an energetic and joyful evening of live music in one of the Valley’s most intimate listening spaces.

Ken Koshio: A Story of Migration with Our Heartbeats
2027-03-13 19:30 - 21:30
Tickets for our first release of 2026-2027 shows go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. July 28. Want early access? Become a Friend of Kerr by joining the VIP Club! Learn more at https://asukerr.com/vipclub.

Ken Koshio: A Story of Migration with Our Heartbeats

A powerful, one-night-only experience of rhythm, spirit, and connection.

Born in Nagoya, Japan, and based in the United States since 1998, Ken Koshio is a singer, songwriter and taiko artist whose life journey bridges cultures, histories and traditions. From his early days as a folk-rock musician in Los Angeles to his Thousand Cranes Tour honoring 9/11, where he carried 10,000 origami cranes across America to Ground Zero, Ken’s work has always been rooted in healing, hope and human connection.

Now based in Phoenix, Ken discovered taiko drumming as a calling within his DNA. Trained by a Hiroshima atomic bombing survivor and certified in Hiroshima Jidaiko, he carries forward the spirit, memory and message of peace through rhythm.

“A Story of Migration with Our Heartbeats” is a deeply moving journey through music and storytelling, tracing the migration of humanity. Blending Japanese taiko, American folk rock and Native American influences, including collaborations with Hopi artists, Ken creates a performance that transcends borders and time.

At its core is the heartbeat, the rhythm shared by all life. Each beat carries resilience, prayer and the footsteps of our ancestors, connecting the memory of Hiroshima with the ancient wisdom of indigenous cultures.

This concert is a living prayer.

Come experience the heartbeat that connects us all.
