Kent State Tuscarawas PAC unveils 2026-27 season

The Performing Arts Center at Kent State University at Tuscarawas has announced 15 new shows as part of its 2026-27 season, the PAC’s 16th year of bringing live performances and educational opportunities to the community. The season was unveiled during a special member appreciation event.

“These shows represent one of the most exciting and recognizable season announcements in our history, featuring a dynamic mix of high-profile artists and large-scale touring productions,” said David Mitchell, general manager of the Performing Arts Center. “Since introducing our new programming model last year, we’ve gained greater flexibility to pursue a wider range of opportunities. That flexibility has enabled us to secure exceptional performances, with additional shows still to be announced as the season unfolds.”

The season features a lineup of rock acts spanning multiple generations of classic hits. Kansas will bring its catalog, including “Carry On Wayward Son” and “Dust in the Wind.” Three Dog Night will perform a collection of classics from the late 1960s and 1970s. Always Jovi will perform as a Bon Jovi tribute act, while Fleetwood Gold will celebrate the music of Fleetwood Mac. Michael Cavanaugh returns with a performance honoring the music of Billy Joel and Elton John.

Country music fans can look forward to Sawyer Brown. Since 1984, the band has performed for audiences while remaining one of country music’s enduring acts.

Fans of large-scale theatrical productions will have the opportunity to see two touring productions. The national Broadway tour of Meredith Willson’s “The Music Man,” the six-time Tony Award-winning musical comedy, tells the story of fast-talking salesman Harold Hill and the small town he unexpectedly transforms.

Also returning to the PAC stage is “Riverdance” as part of its 30th anniversary tour. The Irish music and dance production features choreography, rhythms, visuals and Grammy Award-winning music. The anniversary production reimagines the show for a new generation while honoring the production’s original style.

The PAC also will serve as a launch venue for the national tour of “You’ve Still Got a Friend: A Musical Tribute to the Friendship of Carole King & James Taylor.” Inspired by their “Live at the Troubadour” performances and album, the tribute celebrates the friendship between the two songwriters through their music.

Several productions will bring holiday programs to audiences of all ages. “Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol,” featuring music and lyrics by the 11-time Grammy Award winner, reimagines the classic Dickens tale in 1930s East Tennessee. “O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy” also is scheduled, and “Luminare Christmas” returns with rock music, lighting effects and a holiday story.

Continuing its commitment to educational outreach, the PAC will again feature artists who provide workshop and performance opportunities for local students.

“Our educational programs give students the opportunity to perform side-by-side with internationally recognized artists in once-in-a-lifetime experiences on our stage,” Mitchell said. “This season, we are continuing the PACK the PAC pricing initiative, which makes every ticket for designated educational outreach performances just $20.”

Artists participating in the PACK the PAC series include Simply Three, a classically trained trio known for transforming string instruments into a high-energy performance, and Backtrack Vocals, a New York City-based vocal group.

Continuing an initiative introduced last season, the PAC will again offer Cloud Club Seating. Select balcony seats for all PAC-presented performances will be available for $20.

Returning for its fifth season is the world music and food experience that transforms the PAC lobby into a cultural celebration. Passport to Brazil will feature music by Moises Borges and include a meal showcasing Brazilian cuisine.

“We are especially pleased to welcome back the Tuscarawas County Community Foundation as our full-season sponsor,” said Dr. Brad Bielski, dean and chief administrative officer of Kent State University at Tuscarawas. “We’re also incredibly grateful for the continued support of Attorney Richard W. Hinig, First Federal Community Bank, AloNovus and Rodriguez’s House of Stones. Their dedication is a testament to the value of the arts in strengthening our community.”

A complete list of performances and ticket prices is available at www.kent.edu/tuscpac. PAC members have exclusive early access to tickets June 10-25. Single-show ticket sales begin at 10 a.m. June 26. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Performing Arts Center box office, by calling 330-308-6400 or online at www.kent.edu/tuscpac. The box office is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Free parking is available for all shows. The Performing Arts Center is on the campus of Kent State Tuscarawas at 330 University Drive NE, New Philadelphia.