Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.
— Thomas Merton

Each year, I think that I will create the series—yet the series instead creates itself. This season seems to have decided that it will burst forth, featuring immensely talented performers and artists.

It is an honor to welcome the prestige of Academy of St. Martin in the Fields Chamber Ensemble, Urban Bush Women, and Anoushka Shankar to our community. And it is a joy to welcome the vitality of Time for Three, Reduced Shakespeare Company, and David Gonzalez. As a whole, the season comprises 10 illuminating performances.

In our world of "never enough time" with work to do, errands to run, and problems to solve, the arts nourish our capacities. Experiencing the arts reminds us that words and numbers cannot explain everything and that multiple perspectives enhance what we know.

The arts contribute to the ability of each of us to live richer, more capable lives in a complex world. The arts also give our young people one more chance to be open to their own possibilities, to explore a global world, and to be engaged within the community that shapes them. This year we have expanded the special youth ticket price of $15 to include every performance. We're also pleased to announce that the Center Stage Dinner Series will be available at $15 per person.

Our guest artists always comment on the spirit of our community. To our regular patrons, we thank you for your loyalty, and if you're a newcomer this season, we offer a special invitation to discover our series. To our sponsors, we especially thank you for championing the arts for all.

Don't hesitate — jump right in! Immerse yourself in the series, and share your spirit with others.

See you at the show,

Tanya M.B. Gertz