Donate Contact
Donate Contact
Back
Back
Back
Back
Back

Herberger Theater Center and Arizona Musicfest are teaming up once again to bring a powerful musical to the stage in a limited concert-style production of Ragtime, The Musical. Ragtime, A Theatrical Concert Experience takes Center Stage at the Herberger Theater Center in Downtown Phoenix from April 24 – April 26, 2026. This celebrated collaboration follows last year’s hit production of Carousel and promises another unforgettable experience for Valley audiences.

Winner of four Tony Awards, Ragtime paints a rich portrait of America at the turn of the 20th century. With a vibrant score that blends ragtime, blues, jazz, and traditional Broadway, the story follows three families as they navigate hope, change, and the promise of a better future.

This special concert presentation will feature Broadway guest stars, standout performers from the local theater community, and the 40-piece Musicfest Pops Ensemble, conducted by Musicfest Resident Artist Josh Condon. The production is stage directed by Mark Stoddard and performed exclusively at the Herberger Theater Center.

Experience the energy, emotion, and timeless music of Ragtime in this one-weekend-only event.

Tickets for Ragtime, A Theatrical Concert Experience are available at herbergertheater.org or by calling the Herberger Box Office at 602-252-8497.

After three successful seasons performing on the Kax Stage, Order Chaos Theater Company (OCTC) has been officially named a Resident Company at the Herberger Theater Center. Founded in 2022 by brothers Mark and JP Clemente and a close collaborator, OCTC has quickly established itself as a compelling presence in the Phoenix theater community. The company is known for raw, actor-driven productions that explore vulnerability, truth, and humor through intimate storytelling and community-minded values.

OCTC also partners with local nonprofits and is committed to increasing accessibility through initiatives like the ASL Impact Program, which provides American Sign Language-interpreted performances for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

Order Chaos Executive Director Mark Clemente described the residency as “a meaningful milestone—recognizing the impact of our artists, supporters, and audiences.” Artistic Director JP Clemente added, “Theater should reflect the full range of human experience—who’s in the story, who tells it, and who gets to witness it.” “We are excited about the direction of their Company and are happy to play a role in their future development” expressed Herberger Theater Center’s President and CEO, Mark Mettes.

OCTC’s 2025–2026 season as a Resident Company includes:

For more information and tickets, visit herbergertheater.org or call the Box Office at (602) 252-8497.

What happens when a Broadway leading man steps out of character and into his own story? On October 24, 2025, An Evening with Nick Cartell & Friends invites audiences to find out—live and in person at the Herberger Theater Center.

Best known for his towering portrayal of Jean Valjean in Les Misérables—a role he’s performed over 1,000 times—Nick Cartell is more than a powerhouse voice. He’s a Phoenix native, a former local theater kid, and an artist shaped as much by home as by the spotlight. In this intimate one-night-only event, he returns to the very stage where his story began to share not just the songs that made him, but the moments.

Through a mix of Broadway favorites, Disney gems, jazz classics, and original music from his debut album, Cartell offers a rare glimpse into life behind the curtain. From his early performances at the Herberger Theater with Valley Youth Theatre to national tours and standing ovations across the country, this evening weaves together music and memory in a way only a true storyteller can.

Joined by special guests, Nick reflects on his journey with honesty, humor, and unmistakable heart. This is more than a concert—it’s a celebration of where dreams begin, and a reminder that behind every star is a story worth telling.

For tickets and more information, visit herbergertheater.org.

Valley Youth Theatre brings one of Broadway’s most beloved musicals to life this spring with Annie, running May 9 through June 1, 2025, at the Herberger Theater Center. Full of heart, humor, and unforgettable songs, this classic production is a must-see for audiences of all ages.

Based on Harold Gray’s iconic comic strip Little Orphan Annie, the musical tells the story of a spirited young girl determined to find her family in the midst of the Great Depression. With optimism that’s impossible to resist and the loyal companionship of her dog Sandy, Annie’s journey leads her from a New York orphanage to the lavish world of billionaire Oliver Warbucks—proving that hope can thrive in even the toughest of times.

Winner of seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Annie features a timeless score by Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, with beloved numbers like “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Maybe,” and of course, the rousing anthem “Tomorrow.”

Valley Youth Theatre’s production highlights the incredible talent of young performers from across the Valley, capturing the charm and resilience that have made Annie a global phenomenon for generations. Whether you’re seeing it for the first time or returning to an old favorite, this production promises to warm your heart and lift your spirits.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the joy and magic of Annie—a story that reminds us all that brighter days are always just around the corner.

For tickets and more information, visit herbergertheater.org.

From April 26 to May 18, 2025, families and school groups alike are invited to experience Eddie & Vinnie, a heartwarming buddy comedy presented by Childsplay at the Herberger Theater Center. This imaginative and engaging play follows the story of Eddie, a creative boy with dyslexia, and his unlikely sidekick—Vinnie, a hilarious, wise-cracking gecko.

Eddie’s a talented artist who sees the world a little differently. While his schoolwork doesn’t always reflect his strengths, his drawings are full of life, detail, and originality. As the school year winds down, Eddie faces a new challenge: raising his grades or spending the summer in school. With the help of the overly helpful new girl in class and the ever-present (and possibly distracting) Vinnie, Eddie embarks on a journey that pushes him to see his own potential in a whole new light.

Eddie & Vinnie is more than just a comedy—it’s a thoughtful, empowering story that highlights the power of friendship, perseverance, and neurodiversity. Designed to resonate with young audiences, educators, and families, the play raises awareness about dyslexia in a way that’s both accessible and affirming. One in five people are affected by dyslexia, yet misconceptions and stigma persist. This production aims to change that by celebrating the unique minds and strengths of those who learn differently.

With its colorful characters, laugh-out-loud moments, and uplifting message, Eddie & Vinnie opens the door for important conversations about empathy, inclusion, and the value of creative thinking. And for kids who may feel different in the classroom, it offers something even more important: representation and hope.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or simply a fan of meaningful theater, don’t miss this inspiring story that proves sometimes the best way to move forward is to think outside the box.

For tickets and more information, visit herbergertheater.org.

On Friday, October 24 at 7:30 PM, Broadway powerhouse and Phoenix native Nick Cartell returns to the city where his journey began for An Evening with Nick Cartell & Friends—a heartfelt night of music, storytelling, and celebration.

Cartell, best known for his critically acclaimed turn as Jean Valjean in the national tour of Les Misérables, has performed the iconic role more than 1,000 times. But long before his name lit up marquees across the country, Cartell stood on the Herberger stage in a production of West Side Story. This one-night-only concert brings his story full circle.

Between tour stops, Cartell is taking time to share a more personal side of his artistry. Featuring selections from his debut solo album, the evening will blend Broadway favorites, Disney classics, jazz standards, and more—offering a wide-ranging glimpse into the music that shaped his life. Alongside special guests, Cartell will reflect on growing up in Phoenix, chasing his dreams, and the unforgettable highs and humbling lessons of a life onstage.

In addition to Les Misérables, Cartell’s Broadway and national tour credits include Jesus Christ Superstar and Scandalous, and his powerful tenor has captivated audiences coast to coast. This fall, he brings that same passion home.

Whether you’re a longtime Broadway fan, a fellow Phoenician, or someone who simply loves a great story told through song, An Evening with Nick Cartell & Friends promises something rare: a chance to witness a hometown star, at the height of his career, return to the place where it all began.

Tickets are available now at herbergertheater.org or by calling the Herberger Theater Box Office at 602-252-8497.

Original article: Frontdoors Media

On May 4, 2025, the Herberger Theater Center and 22 Valley restaurants hosted the organization’s annual “Plated & Staged” event to benefit the Center and its commitment to bringing together artists and our community for diverse and engaging experiences in the arts. This unique event starts at the Herberger with the fundraising, but doesn’t end until you find out where you are going to dine after the paddle raise!

Co-Chairs: Becky Gonzalez & Dawn Hart

Leading Sponsors: Billie Jo Herberger | The Herberger DelCastillo Family | Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona | Snell & Wilmer | Perkins Coie

The Restaurant Partners: Aftermath Bar & Kitchen | Arcadia Farms Cafe | Buck & Rider | Carcara | Citizen Public House | Call Her Martina | First & Last | Fresh From the Kitchen | Kid Sister | Mancuso’s Restaurant | Mixela | Paul Martin’s American Grill | Pa’La Kitchen | Pyro | Pizzeria Bianco | Santo | Sushi Friend | Sel | Sottise | Valentine | Weft & Warp

Entertainment: Pianist Nicole Pesce & Vocalist Renee Grant Patrick

Auctioneer: Brett Higgins

Notable Moments: Guests enthusiastically participated in a silent auction, live auction and paddle raise — all dedicated to keeping the performing arts accessible to the entire community. The evening concluded with a unique dining experience — 22 local restaurants generously hosted and donated multi-course dinners with wine pairings for tables of eight, making the night truly unforgettable.

Co-Chairs Becky Gonzalez & Dawn Hart
Nicole Pesce & Renee Grant Patrick

Photos courtesy of Herberger Theater Center

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

The latest news, premiering in your inbox