For one weekend only, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Carousel, A Concert takes Center Stage in a sweeping concert experience that honors the musical’s 80-year legacy. Presented by Arizona Musicfest in collaboration with the Herberger Theater Center, Carousel, A Concert offers a rare opportunity to hear this beloved score performed in its full orchestration by a 40-piece orchestra.

More than a musical, Carousel, A Concert tells a story that lives in the hearts of generations. Its unforgettable songs—like “If I Loved You” and “You’ll Never Walk Alone”—have become part of the American musical landscape. Now, audiences in downtown Phoenix can rediscover the emotional power of this classic through a concert production that celebrates its music.

The cast features Broadway’s Erica Spyres as Julie Jordan (from the 2018 revival of Carousel), James Snyder as Billy Bigelow (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, If/Then), and local favorite Cory McCloskey as the Starkeeper. The production is directed by Mark Stoddard, with Josh Condon leading the Musicfest Pops Ensemble.

Set in a coastal Maine town, Carousel, A Concert follows the complicated romance of a carousel barker and a millworker—two people bound by love and struggling to find redemption. This concert format draws focus to the richness of the music and the raw emotion of the story at its core.

This marks Arizona Musicfest’s debut performance series in downtown Phoenix and a milestone partnership with the Herberger Theater Center.

Performance Dates: Saturday, April 26 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm and Sunday, April 27 at 2:00 pm

Tickets are available at the Herberger Theater Center website or by calling the Herberger Box Office at 602-252-8497.

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Carousel takes center stage at the Herberger Theater Center this April in an unforgettable concert celebration featuring a full 40-piece orchestra and a cast of Broadway-caliber talent.

Presented by Arizona Musicfest and the Herberger Theater Center, Carousel, A Concert offers a rare opportunity to hear one of Broadway’s most iconic scores—performed live and in full orchestration—right here in downtown Phoenix.

The cast includes celebrated Broadway performers Erica Spyres as Julie Jordan (from the 2018 Broadway revival of Carousel) and James Snyder as Billy Bigelow (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, If/Then). Phoenix favorite Cory McCloskey appears as the Starkeeper. The production is directed by Mark Stoddard, with music direction by Arizona Musicfest’s resident artist Josh Condon.

From the soaring “Carousel Waltz” to timeless ballads like “If I Loved You” and “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” this concert event invites audiences to experience the full emotional and musical depth of Carousel—one of the most beloved musicals in the American theater canon.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Rodgers & Hammerstein or new to the magic of this classic, Carousel, A Concert promises an evening of unforgettable music and world-class performance.

Performance Dates:
Saturday, April 26 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm
Sunday, April 27 at 2:00 pm

Location:
Center Stage at the Herberger Theater Center in Downtown Phoenix

Tickets:
Available now at herbergertheater.org or by calling the Herberger Box Office at 602-252-8497.

Arizona Musicfest is expanding beyond its North Scottsdale roots this spring, presenting its first-ever concerts in downtown Phoenix in collaboration with the Herberger Theater Center. As featured in PHX Stages, this exciting milestone marks a bold new chapter—and what better way to debut than with one of Broadway’s most iconic musicals.

In celebration of its 80th anniversary, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Carousel, A Concert will feature a 40-piece orchestra and a cast of Broadway-caliber talent. Erica Spyres, who played Julie Jordan in the 2018 Broadway revival, stars alongside James Snyder (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child) as Billy Bigelow. The production is directed by Mark Stoddard with music direction by Arizona Musicfest’s resident artist Josh Condon.

Set in a coastal Maine town, Carousel is a sweeping tale of love, loss, and redemption. This rare concert production gives audiences the chance to hear its full orchestration live, performed on the main stage of the Herberger Theater in downtown Phoenix.

“Musicfest has a strong and proud tradition of presenting major stars,” said Allan Naplan, Executive & Producing Director of Arizona Musicfest, in the PHX Stages article. “Now with this special concert, we’ll present one of the most beloved Broadway classics of all time in the heart of downtown Phoenix.”

Carousel, A Concert runs Saturday, April 26 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm and Sunday, April 27 at 2:00 pm.

Tickets are available now at herbergertheater.org or by calling 602-252-8497.

Read the full article on PHX Stages: https://phxstages.blogspot.com/2025/01/arizona-musicfest-to-produce-carousel.html

As Sun Records Live! prepares to take the stage at the Herberger Theater Center, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the extraordinary legacy of Sun Records and its founder Sam Phillips. The sound that emerged from this iconic label laid the foundation for modern rock ‘n’ roll, blending genres and creating a new voice for a generation of music lovers.

In 1954, Elvis Presley walked into Sun Records and changed the music world forever. With his raw talent, good looks, and charismatic personality, Elvis’s “That’s All Right” became the first rockabilly song to gain national attention. His subsequent success led to a wave of breakthrough artists, including Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins. Together, they created a musical tapestry that shaped the sound of the 1950s and 1960s and continues to influence musicians today.

Sun Records was more than just a recording studio; it was the birthplace of rock, country, blues, and gospel. Sam Phillips’s commitment to innovation and willingness to embrace new sounds opened the door for countless artists who would go on to leave their own indelible mark on music history.

Sun Records Live is a celebration of this rich musical heritage. Audiences will experience live renditions of the greatest hits from Sun’s most iconic artists, including Presley’s “Jailhouse Rock,” Cash’s “Ring of Fire,” and Lewis’s “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On.” The show also weaves together multimedia elements that tell the stories behind these legendary songs, offering a glimpse into the artistry and personalities of the musicians who created them.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of Sun Records. Tickets are on sale now, and VIP Meet & Greet packages are available for those looking to get up close and personal with the stars of Sun Records Live! Call (602) 252-8497 or click here to secure your seats today.

Get ready to rock at the Herberger Theater Center in Phoenix, Arizona, from February 28 to March 1, 2025, as Sun Records Live! brings the legendary Sun Records sound to life. With thrilling performances of timeless hits like “Great Balls of Fire,” “Pretty Woman,” “That’s All Right,” and more, this concert celebrates the iconic artists of Sun Records, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, and Jerry Lee Lewis.

Produced by Gershwin Entertainment, Sun Records Live! features a talented cast of musicians from the national tour of Million Dollar Quartet, including Jon Rossi, the creator and Music Supervisor of the show, and Taylor Isaac Gray, known for his portrayal of Jerry Lee Lewis. Together, they deliver a high-energy, electrifying experience that will leave you tapping your feet to every classic hit.

Step into the world of Memphis, where the magic of Sam Phillips’ Sun Records gave birth to rock ‘n’ roll and propelled artists like Carl Perkins, Billy Lee Riley, and Rufus Thomas Jr. to stardom. Relive the unforgettable music and excitement of the era with the best performances and hits like “Folsom Prison Blues,” “I Walk The Line,” “Blue Suede Shoes,” and many more.

Tickets for Sun Records Live! at the Herberger Theater Center in Phoenix are selling fast, so grab yours now before they’re gone! This is your chance to experience the rock ‘n’ roll classics that changed the world.



Sun Records Live! is coming to the Herberger Theater Center in Phoenix, Arizona, from February 28 to March 1, 2025! This incredible evening will transport you to the roots of rock ‘n’ roll, showcasing live performances of iconic songs made famous by Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, and other legendary Sun Records artists. Produced by Gershwin Entertainment, this concert will feature thrilling renditions of classic hits like “Great Balls of Fire,” “Hound Dog,” “Pretty Woman,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and more.

Celebrate the unforgettable Sun Sound and experience the music that revolutionized rock ‘n’ roll. The stars and multi-talented musicians from the national tour of Million Dollar Quartet come together to honor the legendary Sun Records studio in Memphis, Tennessee, where many of these timeless hits were born.

With songs that shaped the course of music history, including “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Ring of Fire,” and “Jailhouse Rock,” the music is the star of this thrilling tribute. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of these legends or new to the magic of Sun Records, this concert offers something for everyone.

Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Tickets for Sun Records Live! at the Herberger Theater Center in Phoenix are on sale now—secure your seats before they’re gone!

On January 24-25, 2025, the Herberger Theater Center presents “Rhapsody & Rhythm: The Gershwin Concert Experience,” an extraordinary event celebrating the timeless brilliance of George and Ira Gershwin. This multimedia concert will immerse audiences in the vibrant world of two of America’s most iconic musical pioneers.

George Gershwin, a self-taught piano prodigy from Brooklyn, revolutionized American music with his ability to blend classical techniques with the soul of jazz. His brother Ira’s unmatched lyricism added wit and depth to their collaborations, resulting in an unforgettable catalog of songs like “I Got Rhythm,” “‘S Wonderful,” and “Rhapsody in Blue.”

“Rhapsody & Rhythm” offers more than a concert; it’s a journey through the lives and legacies of the Gershwin brothers. Featuring captivating live performances paired with rare visual and audio recordings, the show brings their groundbreaking work to life.

Make your plans to experience this celebration of musical genius. Tickets for “Rhapsody & Rhythm” are on sale now. Secure VIP Meet & Greet packages for an exclusive pre-show reception. Call (602) 252-8497 or visit the Herberger Theater Center website to purchase your tickets today!

“Rhapsody & Rhythm: The Gershwin Concert Experience” arrives at the Herberger Theater Center in Phoenix on January 24-25, 2025, shining a spotlight on George and Ira Gershwin’s unmatched contributions to American music.

George Gershwin’s groundbreaking work brought jazz into the concert hall with masterpieces like “Rhapsody in Blue” and “An American in Paris.” Ira’s lyrics, filled with humor and sophistication, elevated their songs into timeless pieces that captured the essence of an era. Together, they created classics that have inspired generations of artists.

“Rhapsody & Rhythm” blends live performances with rare archival footage, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the Gershwins’ impact on music and culture. This concert isn’t just a performance—it’s a tribute to their enduring legacy and their ability to bridge genres, from Broadway to jazz to classical.

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the Gershwins’ timeless artistry at the Herberger Theater Center. Tickets are available now, with VIP Meet & Greet options for an enhanced experience. Reserve your seats by visiting the Herberger Theater Center website or calling (602) 252-8497 today!

Prepare to be transported to the golden age of American music at “Rhapsody & Rhythm: The Gershwin Concert Experience,” coming to the Herberger Theater Center on January 24-25, 2025. This multimedia event showcases the Gershwin brothers’ most celebrated works, including “I Got Rhythm,” “‘S Wonderful,” and “Rhapsody in Blue.”

“I Got Rhythm” exemplifies George Gershwin’s innovative approach to jazz, matched perfectly with Ira’s playful and poignant lyrics. “‘S Wonderful” remains a Broadway classic, enchanting audiences with its elegance and charm. And no celebration of the Gershwins would be complete without “Rhapsody in Blue,” George’s groundbreaking symphonic masterpiece that continues to resonate nearly a century later.

“Rhapsody & Rhythm” combines powerful live performances with unique historical footage, creating a concert experience unlike any other. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the Gershwin repertoire, this is a night you won’t want to miss.

Tickets for “Rhapsody & Rhythm” are selling quickly, so secure yours today. VIP Meet & Greet packages are also available for an unforgettable evening. Visit the Herberger Theater Center website or call (602) 252-8497 to book your seats now!

PHOENIX, AZ – December 9, 2024 – The Herberger Theater Center is pleased to announce the addition of five new members to its Board of Directors for the 2024-2025 season. These new members bring a diverse range of expertise and a shared commitment to supporting the arts in downtown Phoenix.

The following individuals have joined the board:

  • Haley Hoekstra, Content Manager at Downtown Phoenix Inc.
  • Christian Hoyt, Machine Learning Engineer at Salesforce
  • Camaley Jennings, Marketing & Project Manager, Social Impact at GitHub
  • Jessica Kokal, Partner at Broening, Oberg, Woods, and Wilson
  • Christopher Rude, Chief Banking Officer (Western Banking) at Sunflower Bank

Meet the New Board Members

Haley Hoekstra is a content manager at Downtown Phoenix Inc. with over three years of experience in marketing. She specializes in creating dynamic campaigns, graphic design, social media, photography, and website design. Her work emphasizes telling the unique stories of Phoenix’s diverse communities and events.

Christian Hoyt is a Machine Learning Engineer at Salesforce. He has more than a decade of experience in data analytics, data engineering, and strategy. Outside of his professional work, Christian is a mentor with Free Arts for Abused Children of Arizona and is passionate about contributing to Phoenix’s performing arts culture.

Camaley Jennings is a Marketing and Project Manager at GitHub, focusing on social impact initiatives. A fourth-generation Arizonan, Camaley’s career includes roles at charity: water, the Clinton Global Initiative, the Obama White House, and the World Food Programme. She is also dedicated to community service and will bring her experience to support the Herberger’s mission.

Jessica Kokal is a partner at Broening, Oberg, Woods, and Wilson, where she specializes in commercial general liability and workers’ compensation defense. Jessica is committed to mentorship and diversity, having chaired her firm’s diversity and recruitment committees and directed the Phoenix Ladder Down program to support women lawyers.

Christopher Rude serves as the Chief Banking Officer for Sunflower Bank’s Western Commercial Banking line. With over 20 years of experience in banking, Christopher is also involved in several community organizations, including serving on the Mental Health Board for Phoenix Children’s Hospital and the St. Vincent DePaul charity golf committee.

About the Herberger Theater Center

The Herberger Theater Center is Arizona’s center stage, offering diverse arts experiences that engage, inspire, and connect the Phoenix community with the world of performing arts. Home to three resident companies—Arizona Opera, Childsplay Theatre, and iTheatre Collaborative—the Herberger Theater is a hub for arts education, outreach programs, and unforgettable live performances.

For more information, visit HerbergerTheater.org.