Welcome

First, I thank each of you who have so generously supported UApresents in past seasons. I hope you realize the value of your financial contribution. Your support makes it possible for us to deliver programs that you can be proud to have as a part of our community fabric.

Second, for those of you who are considering contributing to UApresents for the first time this year, thank you. Your philanthropy is crucial as UApresents absorbs a sharp reduction in state funding for the coming season.

The superior quality of the artists and performances that comprise the UApresents season stands solidly among the finest arts presenters in the nation. This season we continue the tradition of excellence in our core genres — classical, dance, jazz and blues and world music — and for the first time we offer summer performances. ‘Summer Fun’ features the ultimate party band, the B-52s and country legend Randy Travis. The season officially opens with ‘The Ultimate Doo-Wop Show’ featuring eight classic artists headlined by Charlie Thomas and The Drifters. We are also proud to host two performances that pair celebrated performers — jazz icons Dave Brubeck with Ramsey Lewis and Broadway legends Barbara Cook with Christine Ebersole. The season continues with top names in every genre including Mannheim Steamroller, B.B. King, Olga Kern, Mark Morris Dance Group, The Chieftains, Michael Feinstein and Lily Tomlin.

This year we will offer all subscribers who are also donors priority in ordering their most desirable seat locations with their subscription orders. For more information about how you can join our family of donors and receive this important advantage please see Giving Opportunities. Your gifts, at whatever level you are comfortable contributing, are valued and appreciated.

The arts provide reminders of what is possible. I look forward to sharing many inspirational moments with all of you in the new season.

Thank you.

Natalie Bohnet, Executive Director, UApresents

The rich and diverse programming of UApresents rivals that of the finest performing arts centers in the United States. The world-class artists and performances UApresents brings to The University of Arizona campus, along with special events like “The Laramie Project” and educational outreach programs, enhance our quality of life and bring Southern Arizona and the UA community together. UApresents reaches out to all through special discounts for seniors, the military, school children and UA students, faculty and staff. For many children, an event at UApresents is their first experience with live performance.

As this exciting new season begins, UApresents is deeply affected by state budget cuts to education. The exceptional team at UApresents is working hard to ensure that this important program continues to thrive. We are particularly grateful to the many individuals and businesses that generously support UApresents with sponsorships and donations and we sincerely thank them. UApresents truly must be a partnership between the campus and the community and more than ever before, the community’s financial support is crucial to enable all of us in Southern Arizona to continue to experience the exhilaration and joy of this outstanding program. With your support, The University of Arizona will do all that it can. UApresents is a treasure we must not lose.

Robert Shelton, President, The University of Arizona