George Mason University's Center for the Arts

Large Scale Prints

Opening Reception: Tuesday, November 10, 6 to 8 PM

Alan Knezevich, "Alan Knezevich Design Associates: Case Studies"

Amahl and the Night Visitors

Donizetti’s rollicking romantic comedy follows Marie, a young woman who was adopted and raised by an regiment of the French army, and Tonio, a young man who saved Marie’s life and is now desperately in love with her. When the Marquise de Birkenfield discovers that the “daughter” is her long-lost niece, she whisks Marie away to her chateau and arranges her marriage to a nobleman. However, a hidden secret and a surprise appearance by the regiment at the wedding softens the Marquise’s heart and reunites the two young lovers. A rousing combination of romantic love, hilarious antics, and esprit de corps—not to mention intoxicating music highlighted by spectacular vocal writing. Sung in French with English supertitles.

Single Tickets are on sale now!

With David Holt and Richard Watson

This legendary musician returns to the Center for the Arts with long-time collaborator and Grammy-winning banjoist David Holt and grandson, Richard, for an incredible evening of music. Showcasing his universally acknowledged virtuosity of the flatpicking guitar, Doc Watson has mastered a wide range of musical genres, including traditional ballads, fiddle tunes, blues, gospel, country, and contemporary music. His extraordinary talent has been recognized with seven Grammy Awards, a National Medal of the Arts, a National Heritage Fellowship, and the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences Lifetime Achievement Award, and he was even declared a “national treasure” by President Jimmy Carter. Don’t miss this marvelous performance that spans generations and musical traditions!

Single Tickets are on sale now!

Donizetti’s rollicking romantic comedy follows Marie, a young woman who was adopted and raised by an regiment of the French army, and Tonio, a young man who saved Marie’s life and is now desperately in love with her. When the Marquise de Birkenfield discovers that the “daughter” is her long-lost niece, she whisks Marie away to her chateau and arranges her marriage to a nobleman. However, a hidden secret and a surprise appearance by the regiment at the wedding softens the Marquise’s heart and reunites the two young lovers. A rousing combination of romantic love, hilarious antics, and esprit de corps—not to mention intoxicating music highlighted by spectacular vocal writing. Sung in French with English supertitles.

Single Tickets are on sale now!

Racial Politics in a “Post Racial” America

Michael K. Fauntroy

Barack Obama’s election as President of the United States has had a profound impact on discussions of race and politics. Many on all sides of the ideological spectrum now conclude that America’s racial problems are in our collective rear view mirror and continuing to discuss them is merely beating a dead horse. Indeed, some contend that we are entering a new “post racial” America, one in which race is no longer a main issue of concern. Dr. Michael K. Fauntroy examines the concept of a “post racial” America — what it means and its potential impact on American politics.

Featuring the GMU Wind Symphony

In the early 80’s, George Winston burst onto the music scene with his iconic impressionist style, and a collection of seasonal-themed
recordings for which he became so well known. His melodic piano musings instantly found an eager audience. His distinctive style, which he calls “rural folk piano,” finds its influence from his early years in Montana. He is also very inspired by the music of the great New Orleans R&B pianists. There is also a definite pastoral feel to his music that is quintessentially Winston. While he is best known as a pianist, Winston is also accomplished on the guitar and harmonica. In The Winter Show, Winston presents an evening of exquisitely enchanting music that is certain to evoke feelings of the season.

For this holiday performance, please join us in support of a local Washington area food bank by bringing a donation of canned food to the concert. Mr. Winston will also be donating a portion of the artist’s proceeds from his CD sales to the food bank.

Single Tickets are on sale now!

“Nothing proclaims celebration and festivity like the sound of brass instruments. And if those instruments are played by Canadian Brass, there is even greater cause for celebration,” praises the Toronto Star. This extraordinary brass quintet combines virtuosity and showmanship with a playful sense of humor. Now heading into its 38th season, Canadian Brass has elevated the art of brass playing with the excellence and technical virtuosity of their performance, the diversity of their programs, and the deep connections they make with audiences the world over. Returning to the Center with a festive and versatile holiday program featuring classical music, traditional carols, Hanukkah songs, and jazzy renditions of popular seasonal songs, this is a delightful holiday event for the entire family.

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George Mason University Symphony Orchestra and Choruses join forces for an annual concert that features traditional favorites, and the always-popular audience sing-along.

Virtuoso fiddler Natalie MacMaster invokes the holiday traditions of her native Cape Breton in this spirited Christmas show that makes audiences leap to their feet. A Grammy nominee who first picked up a violin at age nine, MacMaster combines Celtic, bluegrass, and contemporary acoustic sounds with jazz, rock, and even classical music. “MacMaster’s a ball of fire, performing jigs and reels with unstoppable, foot-tapping energy and ballads with irresistible, keening passion,” praises the Los Angeles Times. This holiday season, MacMaster demonstrates her fiddling fireworks and ferocious step dancing in a program that mingles Celtic melodies and classic Christmas carols. “Radiant joy ran through her show…maximum entertainment.” (Boston Globe)

Single Tickets are on sale now!

“Some say the best musical instrument of all is the human voice—if you’ve seen Rockapella you know that’s the truth,” says USA Today. This five-man a cappella powerhouse delighted audiences when they last appeared at the Center. This season, Rockapella returns with such holiday classics as "Angels We Have Heard On High" and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," as well as popular new pieces like "Little Mary Snowflake," a funky new version of "The Dreidel Song," and "Matunda Ya Kwanzaa," an original composition honoring the celebration of African culture. Young and old alike are drawn to Rockapella’s humor, style, and artistry; their amazing and innovative “vocal percussion”; and their winning combination of soul, rock, R&B, and jazz. Often remembered for their Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? theme, Rockapella tours widely each year and performs regularly on television and radio.

Single Tickets are on sale now!