Bringing the Most Performances in One Season to East Texas
The University of Texas at Tyler R. Don Cowan Fine & Performing Arts Center announced its 2026–27 season, unveiling a dynamic lineup that brings some of the most celebrated names in music, Broadway, entertainment and storytelling to East Texas. With chart-topping artists, smash-hit musicals and nationally recognized performers, the upcoming season promises to be one of the Cowan Center’s most exciting and wide-ranging yet.
“This season reflects our commitment to presenting world-class talent across genres,” said Ryan Poynter, Cowan Center executive director. “From iconic rock and country artists to award-winning Broadway and innovative live experiences, we’re offering something unforgettable for every audience member.”
Season Highlights
• LeAnn Rimes, Sept. 26 — The multi-platinum, Grammy Award–winning vocalist brings her powerhouse voice and emotional artistry to the stage for an intimate, soaring evening of music.
• Foreigner, Oct. 10 — One of rock’s most enduring and beloved bands performs its legendary catalog of hits, delivering the anthems that defined a generation.
• Beetlejuice, Nov. 12 — The hit Broadway musical arrives with its signature blend of outrageous humor, eye-popping visuals and a story that’s both wildly fun and surprisingly heartfelt.
• An Evening with Alton Brown, Nov. 14 — The bestselling author, television personality and culinary innovator takes the stage for a one-of-a-kind blend of storytelling, food science, comedy and live performance.
• The Oak Ridge Boys, Nov. 19 — The iconic quartet returns on their farewell tour, celebrating decades of chart-topping country and gospel music.
• Mannheim Steamroller, Dec. 19 — MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for over 40 years. Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics in the distinctive Mannheim sound.
• Hadestown, March 29 — This acclaimed musical by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and director Rachel Chavkin is winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical and the Grammy Award® for Best Musical Theater Album.
• Bluey’s Big Play, April 15 — Bluey’s Big Play – The Stage Show brings Australia’s favorite family to life in a playful 45-minute performance packed with music, imagination and big heart.
Other acts and artists announced include:
Broadway:
• A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical, Waitress, Shucked and a special Thanksgiving weekend performance of Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol featuring the music of Dolly Parton
Music:
• Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra, The King’s Singers, Mariachi Herencia de Mexico “A Mariachi Christmas,” Boston Brass with UT Tyler Bands, and U.S. Army Field Band Jazz Ambassadors celebrating America’s 250th
Dance and Cirque:
• Martha Graham Dance Company performing Appalachian Spring for America’s 250th, American Ballet Theatre Studio Company and Cirque Mechanics Tilt!
Family and Arts in Education Series – Public performances for families and daytime school group audiences
• Curious George and The Golden Meatball, Chicka Chicka Boom Boom The Musical, Clifford the Big Red Dog and ERTH’s Dinosaur Zoo Live
“This is the most expansive season we’ve ever brought to East Texas, with more announcements to come,” said Jeff Noblitt, UT Tyler vice president for marketing. “This level of variety ensures that audiences can discover something new while also celebrating the artists they love.”
Season subscriptions will be available beginning June 8, with single-ticket sales opening July 13. Season subscribers and Cowan Circle Members receive early access and exclusive benefits. For more information, contact the Cowan Center box office at 903.566.7424. Box office hours are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
With a mission to improve educational and health care outcomes for East Texas and beyond, UT Tyler offers more than 90 undergraduate and graduate programs to more than 11,500 students. Through its alignment with UT Tyler Health Science Center and UT Health East Texas, UT Tyler has unified these entities to serve Texas with quality education, cutting-edge research and excellent patient care. Classified by Carnegie as a doctoral research institution and by U.S. News & World Report as a national university, UT Tyler has campuses in Tyler, Longview, Palestine and Houston.
