ASU Kerr

Comedy @ Kerr
2025-01-29 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Phoenix)
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 IDSari Beliak host and curatorInstagram @saribeliak Sari 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.

Xazmin GarzaInstagram @xazminnie

Xazmin Garza is a stand-up comedian, actor and writer living in Arizona. She was a finalist on Max’s “Second Chance Stage” talent competition, which premiered in November 2024, three years after her TV debut on the HBO original special “Comedy Chingonas.” She has toured with Roy Wood, Jr. and was a Funniest Stand Up Finalist in the prestigious New York Comedy Festival in 2019. Xazmin had a supporting role in “Cramming,” a short film that won the audience award at the Brooklyn Film Festival. She has been selected to perform in the Laughing Skull, 10,000 Laughs and Limestone Comedy Festivals—among many others. Xazmin started comedy in Boston before taking her talent to New York, where she was a paid regular at clubs throughout the city. Before comedy, she worked as a columnist in Las Vegas.

Stephanie MorrisInstagram @stephaniemorriscomedy

Stephanie has been doing comedy all around Arizona for three years. She uses comedy to tell stories of motherhood and life experiences.

Jon BoydInstagram @jonnietsunami

Jon Boyd is a rising stand-up comedian known for his sharp observational humor and relatable storytelling. Based in Phoenix, Jon’s comedy dives into everything from cultural clashes and relationships to the awkward realities of being an adult. He’s performed across Arizona, New York and Florida, and is the co-producer of the hit monthly showcase “Comedy City All Stars.” With a mix of wit, charm and authenticity, Jon brings big laughs and fresh perspectives to every stage he hits.

Mira MasonInstagram @flesheating_virus_ | @for.weird.and.for_worseOriginally from Arizona, Mira Mason is an Atlanta-based stand-up comic, visual artist, animator and aspiring clown. In addition to hosting and producing High Voltage Comedy at Culture Shock each month, she can be seen all over Atlanta and the greater Southeast at Laughing Skull, Alley Stage and Don’t Tell. Her semi-surreal illustrations and cartoons can be found in coffee shops, friends of friends’ houses and feral cat colonies across Atlanta. Her new work is currently showing at Dynamic El Dorado comedy theater.

Almost Famous Theatre Company - Fundraising Gala
2025-01-31 18:00 - 20:30
Almost Famous Theatre Company is having its annual fundraising gala. Cocktails, dinner, entertainment, raffles, silent auction and more! Flying in to ASU Kerr Cultural Center on January 31, 2025. 6:30pm to 9:00 pm. Tickets: $150 for an assigned table seat, $100 for general admission seating.

You will have a WICKED good time.

Questions or sponsorship inquiries, please contact jan@almostfamoustheater.com

Almost Famous Theatre Company Website

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Street Corner Renaissance
2025-02-01 19:30 - 21:30
Paying homage to acappella street corner harmonizing, these seasoned vocalists began singing the songs of their youth without instrumental accompaniment. They’ve opened for The Temptations, Boyz II Men, Kool and the Gang, Chuck Berry and Jay Leno. A career highlight includes a six-week engagement in Dubai, UAE.

The world discovered SCR during their performance on The Sing-Off, Season Four. They were also featured in PBS’s “Doo Wop Generations” and live from the Dorothy Chandler Music Center in Los Angeles.

These cats can flat out sing! Their energy and versatile show offer audiences an authentic, interactive street corner experience, with the polish of a seasoned Las Vegas act. Catch their incredible performance at ASU Kerr, where they will bring their unique blend of nostalgia and entertainment to life.

Gather Storytelling – Long Distance
2025-02-05 19:30 - 21:00
Gather Storytelling – Long Distance

Three storytellers gather with our guest host and folk tale teller to share true stories about the experiences and challenges of long-distance connections. From miles apart to close at heart, hear their unique perspectives, and join us for the fan-favorite Q&A session at the end to dive deeper into their stories and insights!

Guest host: Chrissy Dart

Personal storytellers:Abigail Brammer Fouts· Abigail is a Phoenix transplant from New York who has lived in Arizona with her husband, Justin, since 2018.

· Abigail is a staff attorney with the Florence Immigrant and Refugee Rights Project where she spends her days advocating for detained unaccompanied children. ·In her free time, Abigail loves spending time with Justin and their two dogs, Gamgee and Tolkien, trying new restaurants, and singing with the Phoenix Symphony Chorus.

Peter Schumann· In his early years, Peter suffered transforming experiences that changed his life. Driven by urgency and the frailty of life, he set out to discover the world alone at the tender age of 19.

· Peter explored many countries including Thailand, Israel, Egypt, England and Germany; that set the foundation of who he is today. He carved out a trail that opened the gate to coming to America, with nothing but a suitcase and a smile.· Since then, he’s been a Foster’s Drinking, Vegemite lickin’, crocodile-catchin’, Outback Bush-Bashing, Fair Dinkum American.Lucy Wong· Lucy Wong is a veteran who served 14 years in the U.S. Navy during Operation Desert Storm. She continues to give back to veterans, teaching art therapy to demonstrate how creativity can help them cope with chronic illness, depression and mental trauma.

· She is an artist, quilter, published author and storyteller who shares her experiences about growing up as the daughter of Chinese immigrants, her experiences with scleroderma and a military-service related disability contracted during her days as a medical lab technician.

· Lucy was a finalist for a 2020 Governor’s Arts Award and teaches at Arizona Art Alliance in Tempe, Mesa Art League and other organizations.

Seats are not assigned, arrive early for the best seating!

Monique Hasbun
2025-02-07 19:30 - 21:30
Special guest DJ ManifestMonique Hasbun is on the brink of global superstardom with her signature genre-defying music style. Nicknamed The Shakira of Phoenix early in her career, she was selected to perform on Netflix’s La Firma (The Signing in English), the thrilling Latin music competition series for artists hoping to land a recording contract. She impressed reggaeton stars Rauw Alejandro, Nicki Nicole, Yandel and Tainy, the series judges and mentors.

Her musical journey began at age 12 when she taught herself to play guitar, eventually becoming one of Arizona’s leading Latin pop singer-songwriters. Coming from a Latin and Middle Eastern background, Monique has always aimed to infuse her cultural heritage into her music. Gaining international recognition, particularly in Latin America, she beautifully blends Latin, Middle Eastern and American influences, creating songs in both English and Spanish.

Get ready for an upbeat concert of pop, dance and Latin influences from a hometown hero at ASU Kerr!

Monique Hasbun está a punto de alcanzar ser una súper estrella global con su estilo musical característico que desafía los géneros. Apodada “La Shakira de Phoenix” al principio de su carrera, fue seleccionada para presentarse en La Firma de Netflix, la emocionante serie de competencia de música latina para artistas que buscan un contrato discográfico. Impresionó a los jueces y mentores de la serie, las estrellas del reggaetón Rauw Alejandro, Nicki Nicole, Yandel y Tainy.Su trayectoria musical comenzó a los 12 años, cuando empezó a tocar la guitarra de forma autodidacta, convirtiéndose eventualmente en una de las principales cantautoras de pop latino en Arizona. Con raíces latinas y del Medio Oriente, Monique siempre ha buscado infundir su herencia cultural en su música. Al ganar reconocimiento internacional, especialmente en América Latina, combina hermosamente influencias latinas, del Medio Oriente y estadounidenses, creando canciones tanto en inglés como en español.¡Prepárate para un concierto lleno de energía con influencias de pop, y todos los ritmos latinos para bailar de una heroína local en ASU Kerr en Scottsdale!

Coffee at Kerr with Arizona Opera - Studio Cabaret Lecture Recital
2025-02-12 10:30 - 12:00
Studio Cabaret Lecture Recital

Join us at ASU Kerr for a special Arizona Opera event featuring the Director of Artistic Administration and the Director of the Marion Roose Pullin Opera Studio. This presentation will preview the upcoming Studio Cabaret performance, showcasing multiple operas and arias, along with engaging musical examples.

Co-presented with Arizona Opera

Refreshments provided by Renegade Coffee Company, renegadecoffeeaz.com

Coffee events are part of a series of free, informal presentations featuring Arizona Opera performers and guest musicians. We encourage patrons to contribute a suggested donation of $5 and bring a can of food or sealed personal item to be donated to Vista del Camino Food Bank.

Coffee and refreshments are served in the Crescendo Garden at 9:30 a.m.Event begins at 10:30 a.m.

RSVPs open two weeks prior to this event: January 29 at 10:30 a.m.

This is a hybrid event. Tune in live at showtime on our YouTube channel.

Esteban Ramirez
2025-02-14 19:30 - 21:30
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with an enchanting evening of music, poetry and storytelling by the multi-talented Esteban Ramirez. Join us for a soul-stirring performance where Esteban’s mastery of the grand piano intertwines with delicate spoken word. His compositions range from the tender and romantic to the deeply dramatic, creating a beautiful atmosphere that speaks to the heart.

Experience moments of pure musical joy with poignant piano solos. Esteban’s lyrical poetry and immersive storytelling will inspire your imagination, whether you’re sharing this special evening with a loved one or cherishing the company of friends.

This Valentine’s Day, take an unforgettable journey and join us at ASU Kerr for an evening that promises to touch your heart and soul!

ASU Kerr Tuesday Morning Music & Tea
2025-02-18 10:30 - 12:00
ASU School of Music

The Creviston Duo

Christopher Creviston, saxophoneHannah Creviston, piano

The Crevistons showcase a wide variety of intriguing chamber works for saxophone and piano, from romantic to contemporary.

Co-presented with ASU School of Music

Tea events are part of a series of free, informal presentations featuring musicians from the ASU School of Music. We encourage patrons to contribute a suggested donation of $5 and bring a can of food or sealed personal item to be donated to Vista del Camino Food Bank.

Tea and refreshments are served in the Crescendo Garden at 9:30 a.m.Event begins at 10:30 a.m.

RSVPs open two weeks prior to this event: February 4 at 10:30 a.m.

This is a hybrid program; watch the livestream or archived video at ASU Kerr’s YouTube channel.

Qais Essar
2025-02-22 19:30 - 21:30
Experience the wonder of classical music from Afghanistan and India at the historic ASU Kerr, loved for its incredible acoustics and cherished by the Indian classical music community.

Qais Essar opens a sacred sonic time portal connecting the ancient Hindu Kush mountain region to today. As a contemporary Afghan composer and musician, he uses the rabab, a 2,500 year old lute-like instrument, to blend traditional Afghan music with contemporary influences that range from Western rock and indie folk to the evolving traditional sounds found along the Silk Road.

Qais will be joined by Shreyas Iyer. His intricate rhythms on tabla are a perfect complement to the rabab. Expect Indian classical raga, plus folk songs from across Afghanistan, all in Qais’ signature style.

Qais has toured extensively, sharing his sounds globally and selling out venues from the US to Australia and beyond. Experience a performance in the intimate, casual and historic setting of ASU Kerr.

He performed with the Oxford Philharmonic, Stephen Malkmus and composed for the Oscar-nominated film “Three Songs for Benazir.” He also contributed to “The Breadwinner,” produced by Angelina Jolie and directed by Nora Twomey. His original song “The Crown Sleeps” earned him a Canadian Screen Award.

This concert is a perfect opportunity for newcomers to explore Qais’ unique signature sound and for fans of more traditional forms of Afghan and Indian music to witness true virtuosos in action.

Ballet Theatre of Phoenix - 5th Annual Broadway Cabaret
2025-02-23 13:30 - 15:00
An afternoon of Broadway hits featuring top talent from The Phoenix Theatre Company, Arizona Broadway Theatre and more! With performances by students from the Ballet Theatre of Phoenix to support the PLIÉS program.

Click the link below to learn more about the Ballet Theatre of Phoenix Program

Ballet Theatre of Phoenix Website

The Bridge Cabaret - PLUS! co-presented with ASU Kerr
2025-02-24 19:30 - 21:30
Unplugged and Unforgettable

A musical cabaret conceived and performed by BETHANY BACAwith Collaborative Pianist LINCOLN WRIGHT and Mentor ELAINE “E.E.” MOE

Monday, February 247:00pm Preshow* / 7:30pm Performance

Step into a world of intimate musical enchantment with Bethany, where every note tells a story and every performance leaves a lasting impression. With her powerhouse vocals and raw, unfiltered charm, Bethany takes you on a journey through heartfelt ballads, soulful anthems, and unexpected covers that redefine cabaret. It’s a night of music like you’ve never experienced, unplugged and unforgettable.

And… you have a chance to perform!*Bring sheet music to sing with Lincoln during the 7pm preshow. Please come early and sign up – first come, first served! Doors open at 6:45pm

**This program is made possible, fully or in part, by a grant fromScottsdale Arts with funding provided by the City of Scottsdale. TheBridge Initiative projects this season are supported in part by a CCGgrant for general operations from the Arizona Commission on the Arts,which receives support from the State of Arizona and the NationalEndowment for the Arts.**

Learn more about The Bridge Initiative at bridgeinit.org

Phoenix Chamber Music Society
2025-02-25 19:30 - 21:00
Phoenix Chamber Music Society Presents: Arensky String Quartet & Tchaikovsky String Sextet

Join us for an remarkable evening of chamber music at ASU Kerr, featuring the renowned Arensky String Quartet and Tchaikovsky’s String Sextet.

The Arensky String Quartet will showcase the talents of Jaime Laredo (violin), Milena Pajaro-van de Stadt (viola), Sharon Robinson (cello), and Peter Wiley (cello).

Following this, the Tchaikovsky String Sextet will bring the sounds of Russian romance to life with Jaime Laredo (violin), Ruggero Allifranchini (violin), Milena Pajaro-van de Stadt (viola), Nokuthula Ngwenyama (viola), Peter Wiley (cello), and Sharon Robinson (cello).

Don’t miss this spectacular evening of musical mastery, where each piece is performed by some of the world’s finest musicians.

The Bridge Cabaret - PLUS! co-presented with ASU Kerr
2025-03-07 19:30 - 21:30
The Bridge Cabaret – PLUS is thrilled to present the reading of a brand new, never-produced (non-musical) play “GynoChat” by Tucson-based playwright Erin Dietsche. The reading will be followed by a talkback.

Synopsis: Tara Campbell founded the hottest new startup, GynoChat, that helps women get birth control on demand without having to go to a doctor’s appointment. But there’s something darker lurking below the surface of the company’s meteoric rise to fame. How far will Tara go in her quest to improve women’s health?

Director: Catherine Ricafort

Cast: Emily Bingham, Lauren McKay, Felicia Penza, Shonda Royall

**This program is made possible, fully or in part, by a grant fromScottsdale Arts with funding provided by the City of Scottsdale. TheBridge Initiative projects this season are supported in part by a CCGgrant for general operations from the Arizona Commission on the Arts,which receives support from the State of Arizona and the NationalEndowment for the Arts.**

Learn more about The Bridge Initiative at bridgeinit.org

Charles Lewis Quintet + 1
2025-03-12 19:30 - 21:30
Swing with a joyful perennial ASU Kerr fave, Charles Lewis Quintet +1! Adding the special sauce are his fantastic musical pals. Surround yourself with grooving jazz from Brazil and beyond with lush, full sounds from an ensemble led by a living Phoenix legend!

Pianist Charles Lewis was a true friend to our namesake, the late Louise Lincoln Kerr, and is a great buddy to the venue. Learn more about Louise’s living years and unfailing support of culture and arts in the Valley in Charles’ delightful stage banter.

Jazz club vibes and an upbeat evening are in store at ASU Kerr, get tickets now!

Tish Hinojosa
2025-03-15 19:30 - 21:30
Tish Hinojosa is a singer-songwriter from Austin, Texas with a crowd-pleasing musical blend of folk, country, Latin and pop. Her talents have landed her performances at the White House by invitation of President Bill Clinton and collaborations with Joan Baez, Booker T. Jones, Flaco Jimenez, Pete Seeger, Dwight Yoakam and more.

She has released music independently and with A&M, Warner Bros, and Rounder Records. Tish has been featured on Austin City Limits, A Prairie Home Companion and multiple NPR programs. With 17 critically acclaimed albums released during her career and more on the way, Tish has toured the globe with her expansive creative repertoire.

Journey through Tish’s gorgeous blend of music and discover why she is winning over audiences worldwide!

Treasures of Scottsdale: Two Exceptional Stories
2025-03-19 13:00 - 15:00
Join Bruce Wall from the City of Scottsdale for an engaging presentation that uncovers two of the city’s unique treasures. From a transplanted cowboy who sings while on horseback to a former adobe home now used as a concert venue, discover the stories behind Scottsdale’s exceptional landmarks. This talk also explores the fascinating history of ASU Kerr, Louise Lincoln Kerr and her role in shaping arts and culture in the community.

Registration is mandatory. Reserve your spot here.

For questions, email college@ScottsdaleAZ.gov or call 480-312-7898 (note that phone support won’t be available on the day of the event).

Come and connect with the stories behind ASU Kerr and Scottsdale’s thorough history!

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Eric Ramsey
2025-03-21 19:30 - 21:00
Arizona Blues Hall of Famer Eric Ramsey is set to grace the stage at ASU Kerr! An International Blues Challenge winner and Memphis Cigar Box Guitar Award recipient for outstanding guitarist in the Solo/Duo Category, Eric is a three-time champion of the Phoenix Blues Society’s Blues Showdown and a two-time finalist at the Telluride Blues Challenge.

With a style that ranges from delicate fingerpicking to raucous, bluesy bottleneck slide, Eric’s original compositions are both thought-provoking and reflective of his musical influences. A favorite on the folk and blues festival circuits, he’s also known for his open tuning and slide guitar workshops. Don’t miss this unforgettable performance at ASU Kerr!

ASU Kerr Tuesday Morning Music & Tea - Studio of Baruch Meir
2025-03-25 10:30 - 12:00
Studio of Baruch Meir

Enjoy a recital by outstanding students from the piano studio of Dr. Baruch Meir at ASU, showcasing their talent and dedication.

Co-presented with ASU School of Music

Tea events are part of a series of free, informal presentations featuring musicians from the ASU School of Music. We encourage patrons to contribute a suggested donation of $5 and bring a can of food or sealed personal item to be donated to Vista del Camino Food Bank.

Tea and refreshments are served in the Crescendo Garden at 9:30 a.m.Event begins at 10:30 a.m.

RSVPs open two weeks prior to this event: March 11 at 10:30 a.m.

This is a hybrid program. Watch the livestream or archived video:

Comedy @ Kerr
2025-03-26 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.

Sari Beliak host and curatorInstagram @saribeliak Sari 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.

Dana WhissenInstagram @danawhissen

Dana Whissen is not only a hilarious stand up comedian – she’s also a fiercely absurd and quick witted improvisor and cartoonist! Dana produces and headlines her own show called Last Minute Chaos, where she ends the show by doing 40+ minutes of jokes made up on the spot!! She also takes time away from the “make em ups” to perform carefully and thoughtfully written (only on the freeway) jokes about anything and everything!

Jing YuInstagram @jingkwoh

Born and raised in China, Jing has a diverse background spanning China, Europe and America. A passionate performer since childhood, she won Best Stage Actress in China in 1999 and has acted in films, TV, stage dramas and commercials. She was also a poet, journalist and TV/radio host, studying at the prestigious Beijing LuXun Academy. Jing’s first poetry collection, Without That Second Gaze, was published in 2000. Now a rising star in comedy, she draws on her multicultural experiences to create unique material. She has performed in Hong Kong, China, Phoenix and Los Angeles, winning multiple comedy competitions, including Funniest Comedian in the Valley (Round Six) 2024.

Robert DortchInstagram @R_dortch_

Robert is a dynamic comedian known for his sharp wit and relatable humor. Hailing from Phoenix, Robert brings a unique perspective to the stage, drawing inspiration from his experiences navigating life’s absurdities. With a knack for storytelling and clever observations, he effortlessly engages audiences and leaves them in stitches with his hilarious anecdotes. He has performed all over Los Angeles, Phoenix and Chicago.

Jason SantiagoInstagram @jasonsantiagocomedyJason Santiago, a Bronx native and former Army Sergeant, is a natural on the mic with a relatable anecdotal comedy style. His humor, drawn from fatherhood, growing up in New York and embracing life’s changes, resonates with audiences nationwide. Performing coast to coast, he has shared the stage with top comedians like Joey Medina, Nick Guerra and Martin Moreno. With a growing following, Jason is regularly booked at major clubs including Mic Drop Mania, Laugh Factory, The Comic Strip and Standup NY.

Learning to Fly: A Tom Petty Tribute
2025-03-28 19:30 - 21:00
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/)

Coffee at Kerr with Arizona Opera - AIDA Preview
2025-04-02 10:30 - 12:00
AIDA Preview

The splendor of Egypt comes to life through this visually arresting, projection-based concert production of Verdi’s Aida in its first Arizona Opera performances in over a decade. Featuring some of the most breathtaking music in the operatic repertoire, Aida tells the story of forbidden love amidst political intrigue and war. As the looming shadow of war envelops the sands of Egypt, princess Aida confronts the challenges posed by a web of love, loyalty, and betrayal.

Co-presented with Arizona Opera

Refreshments provided by Renegade Coffee Company, renegadecoffeeaz.com

Coffee events are part of a series of free, informal presentations featuring Arizona Opera performers and guest musicians. We encourage patrons to contribute a suggested donation of $5 and bring a can of food or sealed personal item to be donated to Vista del Camino Food Bank.

Coffee and refreshments are served in the Crescendo Garden at 9:30 a.m.Event begins at 10:30 a.m.

RSVPs open two weeks prior to this event: March 19 at 10:30 a.m.

This is a hybrid program. Tune in to the livestream or archived video at our YouTube channel.

The Bridge Cabaret - PLUS! co-presented with ASU Kerr
2025-04-04 19:30 - 21:30
Bringing you the best local talent, The Bridge Cabaret – PLUS! features traditional cabaret performances with a couple of play and musical theatre readings thrown into our calendar to keep you on your toes!

April play reading: The Joy of Theatre by Germaine Shames

Synopsis: Four thespians, longtime friends, test the bounds of artistic expression under the watchful eye of an autocratic regime. When they stage a controversial play, the consequences exceed their worst nightmare. This is a darkly comedic sociopolitical fable about the fragility of creative freedom and what one seemingly powerless band of misfits willingly risks in its service.

Playwright Shames shares, “I wrote this play because democracy needs theatre as much as theatre needs democracy.”

**This program is made possible, fully or in part, by a grant fromScottsdale Arts with funding provided by the City of Scottsdale. The Bridge Initiative projects this season are supported in part by a CCG grant for general operations from the Arizona Commission on the Arts, which receives support from the State of Arizona and the National Endowment for the Arts.**

Learn more about The Bridge Initiative at bridgeinit.org

The Storm: Two Generations, One Timeless Tradition
2025-04-11 19:00 - 21:00
The Storm: Two Generations, One Timeless Tradition

Experience an electrifying evening of Indian classical music with The Storm, featuring sitar maestros Ustad Shahid Parvez Khan and son Shakir Khan, alongside tabla virtuoso Anubrata Chatterjee. These three world-renowned artists will take you on a mesmerizing musical journey, blending tradition with innovation in a performance full of passion and mastery.

Join us in Phoenix for this unforgettable concert as part of their 2025 North American Tour. Don’t miss the chance to witness the storm of melody and rhythm created by these extraordinary musicians.

ASU Kerr Tuesday Morning Music & Tea - ASU Percussion Group
2025-04-15 10:30 - 12:00
ASU Percussion Group

Experience a program of dynamic, expressive, and surprising works for percussion performed by the ASU Percussion Group.

Co-presented with ASU School of Music

Tea events are part of a series of free, informal presentations featuring musicians from the ASU School of Music. We encourage patrons to contribute a suggested donation of $5 and bring a can of food or sealed personal item to be donated to Vista del Camino Food Bank.

Tea and refreshments are served in the Crescendo Garden at 9:30 a.m.Event begins at 10:30 a.m.

This is a hybrid program. Watch at showtime or see the archived video at our YouTube channel.

RSVPs open two weeks prior to this event: April 1 at 10:30 a.m.

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.

Shrek the Musical JR. - Rancho Solano Preparatory School
2025-04-24 19:00 - 2025-04-27 14:00
five shows (click each date for tickets):

Thursday, April 24 at 7 p.m.Friday, April 25 at 7 p.m.Saturday, April 26 at 2 p.m.Saturday, April 26 at 7 p.m.Sunday, April 27 at 2 p.m.

Shrek The Musical JR.

Get ready for a hilarious, heartwarming adventure with Shrek The Musical JR.! Based on the DreamWorks Animation film and the book by William Steig, this fun-filled show brings Shrek, Donkey, Fiona, and a whole cast of fairy-tale misfits to life on stage.

With book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and music by Jeanine Tesori, this adaptation keeps all the charm of the Broadway production, plus a singalong favorite—“I’m A Believer” by Neil Diamond!

Join us for a story about friendship, self-acceptance, and what it really means to find your happily ever after.

Presented by Rancho Solano Preparatory School.

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.

Seussical Jr.
2025-05-13 18:00 - 2025-05-15 18:00
three shows (click each date for tickets):

Tuesday, May 13 at 6 p.m.Wednesday, May 14 at 6 p.m.Thursday, May 15 at 6 p.m.

Seussical Jr

Seussical Jr. is a fantastical musical extravaganza that brings to life the world of Dr. Seuss in a way you’ve never seen before! Join the Cat in the Hat as he tells the whimsical story of Horton the Elephant, who discovers a speck of dust containing an entire community of tiny Whos. Follow Horton’s journey as he protects the Whos, faces challenges, and proves that ‘a person’s a person, no matter how small.’ Featuring beloved characters like Gertrude McFuzz, Mayzie LaBird, and the mischievous Cat in the Hat, this heartwarming tale is filled with unforgettable music, colorful characters, and messages about friendship, loyalty, and the power of imagination. Perfect for audiences of all ages, Seussical Jr. will transport you to the wonderful world of Seuss!

Presented by Pardes Jewish Day School

The Bridge Cabaret - PLUS! co-presented with ASU Kerr
2025-05-19 19:30 - 21:30
“Taking the Wheel” a musical cabaret with Damon J. Bolling and Collaborative Pianist Josh Condon

From Damon J. Bolling: ‘Taking the wheel’ is about choosing to live with intention—to no longer drift through life as a passenger, but to steer your own course, even when the road ahead is uncertain. That choice takes love, and it takes courage. It took me a long time to understand that life doesn’t simply happen—we have to meet it halfway, with open hands and an open heart. Nothing is promised, nothing owed. To begin, we must be brave—and sometimes even fearless enough to try, to risk, to hope.

“The songs I’ve chosen for this performance are often sung by women, and that’s no accident. They are an ode to the strong women who shaped me—who showed me what resilience, grace, and love look like. Through their strength, I learned to find my own.

“I’m still on that journey of becoming, of reaching, and of trying—and if you are too, I hope these songs bring you comfort, and a sense of connection. We are all navigating life in our own way, but for a moment, through music, we travel together.”

7 p.m. Preshow7:30 p.m. start

Open piano bar and song share will begin at 7 p.m. – bring sheet music to sing accompanied by our pianist on ASU Kerr’s gorgeous Steinway. Please arrive early to participate in this fun pre-show activity.

**This program is made possible, fully or in part, by a grant from Scottsdale Arts with funding provided by the City of Scottsdale. The Bridge Initiative projects this season are supported in part by a CCG grant for general operations from the Arizona Commission on the Arts, which receives support from the State of Arizona and the National Endowment for the Arts.**

Learn more about The Bridge Initiative at bridgeinit.org
