This summer, the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts schedule is heating up with quality events to bring you to creative utopia. Events range the gamut of art workshops to the best of Broadway. The options are endless in the heart of Center City, as the theater is filled with promising activities to jumpstart the season. Check out our must-see list on the upcoming calendar.
Cats
June 18 – June 30
7:30 pm, 8:00 pm, 2:00 pm, 1:00 pm, 6:30 pm | Forrest Theatre
The record-breaking musical, Cats has graced the stage in over 30 countries and 15 languages. Don’t miss your chance to witness this captivating performance at the Kimmel Center. Rediscover the award-winning score, including one of the most popular in musical theater, “Memory”. Bring the entire family to watch the extraordinary tribe gather to rejoice and decide which cat will be reborn!
Iyanla Vanzant
Thursday, June 20
7:30 pm | Merriam Theater
Known for her riveting work as the host of Iyanla Fix My Life on OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network), Iyanla Vanzant is taking over the Kimmel Center stage. The seasoned life coach will discuss “the little purple book” that travels from page to stage with her signature straight-talk with love and humor. Come to be amongst the diverse audience to heal your heart, get empowered, and feed your soul.
John Cusack: Say Anything
Saturday, June 22
7:30 pm | Academy Of Music
John Cusack was made a star after one of his earliest films, “Say Anything.” 30 years later, fans now get the opportunity to experience a moderated discussion about the comedy, with John answering audience questions as well. Enjoy this special screening of the cult classic film, followed by a conversation about his career and the making of the film.
Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale
Sunday, June 23
3:00 pm | Verizon Hall
The Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale presents the world premiere of Cipher, a new work by Daniel Bernard Roumain and lyricist Marc Bamuthi Joseph. The group is excited to also perform Benjamin Britten’s The Golden Vanity, a short one-act opera written in 1966. The balance of the program also consists of well-loved songs we learned as children. Bring the entire family along to witness classical music at its finest!
The Great American Party on the Plaza
Tuesday, July 2
4:30 pm | Commonwealth Plaza
The entire family can enjoy this FREE festival with activities and live performances, including jazz performers and the U.S. Navy Band Cruisers. Plus, don’t miss casts direct from Broadway representing Dear Evan Hansen and Mean Girls. The indoor festival will include family-friendly activities like face painting, balloon art, themed beverages, picnic-style games, and a ton of exclusive giveaways.
Bring It! Live
Thursday, July 11
7:30 pm | Merriam Theater
After their sold-out 2018 summer tour, these ladies are back by popular demand… and they are ready to bring it! The Dollhouse from Lifetime’s hit series Bring It is returning to Philadelphia. The hip-hop majorette team takes the stage by storm with a show that will leave audience members awed. Fans are promised a mind blowing “all new, hotter-than-ever, never-before-seen” presentation that will have sparks flying.
Grow Up Great
Saturday, July 13
11:00 am | Commonwealth Plaza
If you have a little one who immediately jumps for joy at the sound of a melody, this interactive hour is the place to be! Join Johnny Shortcake for a fun-filled afternoon of singing, dancing, and acting. The Kimmel Center is a proud recipient of partnership funding through PNC’s nationally recognized Grow Up Great program. The $350 million multi-year initiative prepares children five and under for both academic and life success.
Smart Funny & Black with Amanda Seales
Sunday, July 21
8:00 pm | Merriam Theater
With intellectual wit and a high-spirited energy, Amanda originated her unique style of content from the stage to the screen. Witness the pop-culture-obsessed comedian’s love of entertainment with a game show that serves as a safe space for the Black voice. She celebrates the many contributions Black Americans who have made history, pop culture, and more. Come laugh and learn “by any joke necessary!”
For a full list of events, visit the Kimmel Center’s website. Follow the Kimmel Center on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates throughout the season.
What shows and events are you most excited for at the Kimmel Center? Share with us in the comments!
