Music & movement

Discover a breathtaking selection of premier artistry, showcasing legendary soloists, innovative dance companies, and world-renowned ensembles. These captivating performances celebrate the height of human creativity and are guaranteed to leave you inspired.
Poster of Martha Graham Dance Company - GRAHAM100: A Celebration of the Company’s 100th Anniversary in San Francisco.

Martha Graham Dance Company - GRAHAM100: A Celebration of the Company’s 100th Anniversary

Cal Performances' Zellerbach Hall

The legendary Martha Graham Dance Company returns with a powerful program of iconic masterworks and contemporary premieres. This landmark anniversary features the timeless Americana of Appalachian Spring alongside new commissions from visionary choreographers like Jamar Roberts and Hope Boykin.

Poster for Somi at Zellerbach Playhouse.

Somi

Zellerbach Playhouse

Grammy-nominated vocalist Somi Kakoma shines in this captivating performance that bridges the worlds of African jazz, soul, and pop. Her sophisticated "New African Soul" draws deeply from her Rwandan and Ugandan roots, weaving together evocative melodies and storytelling.

Poster of A.I.M by Kyle Abraham in San Francisco.

A.I.M by Kyle Abraham

Cal Performances' Zellerbach Hall

Visionary choreographer Kyle Abraham brings a powerful program exploring the intersections of Black and queer identity. This "post-modern gumbo" of movement features three distinct works performed to live music, ranging from the soulful jazz of Nina Simone to the driving rhythms of Max Roach.

Poster of Chris Thile, mandolin and vocals in San Francisco.

Chris Thile, mandolin and vocals

Cal Performances' Zellerbach Hall

Four-time Grammy winner Chris Thile brings a virtuosic solo performance that showcases his restless musical curiosity. This eclectic program features selections from his latest recordings of Bach’s sonatas and partitas alongside a soulful mix of original songs, bluegrass standards, and more.

Poster of Opera Parallèle - La Belle et la Bête in Berkeley.

Opera Parallèle - La Belle et la Bête

Cal Performances' Zellerbach Hall

This visionary production by Opera Parallèle breathes new life into Jean Cocteau’s cinematic masterpiece by replacing the film's original dialogue with Philip Glass’s hypnotic operatic score. Live singers perform with the projected movie, creating spellbinding fusion of vintage cinema and live theater.

Poster of Silkroad Ensemble with Rhiannon Giddens - Sanctuary: The Power of Resonance and Ritual in Berkeley.

Silkroad Ensemble with Rhiannon Giddens - Sanctuary: The Power of Resonance and Ritual

Cal Performances' Zellerbach Hall

Rhiannon Giddens and the Grammy-winning Silkroad Ensemble return with Sanctuary, a communal program exploring the healing power of musical ritual. This vibrant performance bridges global traditions including Sicilian tarantella, Moroccan Gnawa, and American old-time.

Poster of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in Berkeley.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

Cal Performances' Zellerbach Hall

For over 65 years Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has been dedicated to preserving the African American cultural experience. They continues to inspire global audiences through technical brilliance and soulful storytelling.

The Joffrey Ballet - Midsummer Night's Dream

The Joffrey Ballet - Midsummer Night's Dream

Cal Performances' Zellerbach Hall

The Joffrey Ballet returns with Alexander Ekman’s daring reimagining of Midsummer Night’s Dream, a surreal celebration of the Scandinavian summer solstice. This imaginative production blends classical and contemporary dance with a haunting live score performed by Swedish indie artist Anna von Hausswolff.

Poster of Renée Fleming in Berkeley.

Renée Fleming

Cal Performances' Zellerbach Hall

Celebrated five-time Grammy winner Renée Fleming returns to the stage for a radiant recital of beloved songs and arias. Joined by acclaimed pianist Inon Barnatan, this special performance showcases Fleming’s world-class artistry through a captivating program of classical masterpieces and piano showpieces.

Poster of Lara Downes and Friends - This Land: Reflections on America in Berkeley.

Lara Downes and Friends - This Land: Reflections on America

Cal Performances' Zellerbach Hall

Renowned pianist Lara Downes leads a diverse collective of musical visionaries in a profound exploration of the American story. From reimagined folk anthems to contemporary commissions, this stirring performance honors the complex history and enduring hope of a nation in constant transformation.