Summer at the Center Arts Festival
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Spend your Sundays immersed in music that celebrates American culture, creativity, and storytelling. From patriotic classics to Broadway hits and soaring opera, this three-concert series offers something for everyone. See all three concerts for just $50
Summer at the Center Concert Series
Your Sunday Plans Are SolvedSpend your Sundays immersed in music that celebrates American culture, creativity, and storytelling. From patriotic classics to Broadway hits and soaring opera, this three-concert series offers something for everyone. See all three concerts for just $50
June 11 - July 11 | America 250
In honor of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, Towson University’s Summer at the Center Arts Festival presents America 250, a multidisciplinary arts and performance festival taking place June 11–July 11, 2026. This dynamic celebration explores the evolving American story through performance, visual art, film, and community engagement.
Coinciding with Juneteenth and Pride Month, the festival honors the struggles and triumphs of those who have fought—and continue to fight—for freedom, equality, and self-expression. Through these intersecting observances, America 250 amplifies the diverse voices and creative energies that shape our national identity and invites audiences to reflect on whose stories are told, remembered, and celebrated.
Proceeds benefit the TU Foundation.
Group sales available email boxoffice@towson.edu or leave a meassage at 410-704-2787. Click on the events seat map to see other available discounts.
In honor of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, Towson University’s Summer at the Center Arts Festival presents America 250, a multidisciplinary arts and performance festival taking place June 11–July 11, 2026. This dynamic celebration explores the evolving American story through performance, visual art, film, and community engagement.
Coinciding with Juneteenth and Pride Month, the festival honors the struggles and triumphs of those who have fought—and continue to fight—for freedom, equality, and self-expression. Through these intersecting observances, America 250 amplifies the diverse voices and creative energies that shape our national identity and invites audiences to reflect on whose stories are told, remembered, and celebrated.
Proceeds benefit the TU Foundation.
Group sales available email boxoffice@towson.edu or leave a meassage at 410-704-2787. Click on the events seat map to see other available discounts.
June 11, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Exhibitions Reception and Artist Talk
People Get Ready: For nearly a century, Globe Poster Printing Corporation—once one of the nation’s largest showcard printers—has chronicled American music and entertainment through bold, iconic posters. This exhibition highlights the powerful visual legacy of Black American music and its deep connections to cultural expression and civil rights. Read More
Exhibitions Reception and Artist Talk
People Get Ready: For nearly a century, Globe Poster Printing Corporation—once one of the nation’s largest showcard printers—has chronicled American music and entertainment through bold, iconic posters. This exhibition highlights the powerful visual legacy of Black American music and its deep connections to cultural expression and civil rights. Read More
June 11, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Exhibitions Reception and Artist Talk
Vital Beauty: The artists featured in Vital Beauty explore what it means to be in—or from—America, and how this place—its land, communities, and histories—imprints itself on the body. Read More
Exhibitions Reception and Artist Talk
Vital Beauty: The artists featured in Vital Beauty explore what it means to be in—or from—America, and how this place—its land, communities, and histories—imprints itself on the body. Read More
June 12 & 13, 7 p.m.
1776: The Musical
Musical Director, Regina Carlow | Director, Staci Robbins
This fully staged production of 1776 reimagines one of America’s defining moments—the signing of the Declaration of Independence—through a bold, contemporary lens. Drawing inspiration from the acclaimed 2022 revival, the production features a multiracial ensemble of women-presenting actors portraying the nation’s founders, reclaiming a narrative historically told exclusively by men. Presented with complete theatrical design elements that support character, storytelling, and dramatic action, 1776 places the music, language, and ideas of the nation’s founding in dynamic conversation with the present day. Through spirited debate, powerful performances, and a celebrated score, the production invites audiences to engage deeply with questions of democracy, representation, and whose voices are remembered in history.
1776: The Musical
Musical Director, Regina Carlow | Director, Staci Robbins
This fully staged production of 1776 reimagines one of America’s defining moments—the signing of the Declaration of Independence—through a bold, contemporary lens. Drawing inspiration from the acclaimed 2022 revival, the production features a multiracial ensemble of women-presenting actors portraying the nation’s founders, reclaiming a narrative historically told exclusively by men. Presented with complete theatrical design elements that support character, storytelling, and dramatic action, 1776 places the music, language, and ideas of the nation’s founding in dynamic conversation with the present day. Through spirited debate, powerful performances, and a celebrated score, the production invites audiences to engage deeply with questions of democracy, representation, and whose voices are remembered in history.
June 14, 1 p.m.
Love & Trouble
VTDance/Vincent E Thomas
Founder, dancer, and choreographer Vincent E Thomas and his company VTDance present an evening of contemporary dance that explores human connection, resilience, and identity through movement. Love & Trouble is an intimate look into how we love and what our civic actions are to create a more just society.
Love & Trouble
VTDance/Vincent E Thomas
Founder, dancer, and choreographer Vincent E Thomas and his company VTDance present an evening of contemporary dance that explores human connection, resilience, and identity through movement. Love & Trouble is an intimate look into how we love and what our civic actions are to create a more just society.
June 14, 3 p.m.
A Patriotic Salute | Towson Wind Symphony
The Towson Wind Symphony celebrates Flag Day with a festive concert of beloved American favorites. The program includes The Star-Spangled Banner, selections from The Incredibles, Fantasy on “Yankee Doodle”, Lift Every Voice and Sing, America the Brave, The Washington Post, and more—honoring tradition, patriotism, and the rich legacy of American music.
A Patriotic Salute | Towson Wind Symphony
The Towson Wind Symphony celebrates Flag Day with a festive concert of beloved American favorites. The program includes The Star-Spangled Banner, selections from The Incredibles, Fantasy on “Yankee Doodle”, Lift Every Voice and Sing, America the Brave, The Washington Post, and more—honoring tradition, patriotism, and the rich legacy of American music.
June 19 - Juneteenth Celebration
The Juneteenth holiday commemorates June 19, 1865, when the Union Army arrived in Texas with federal orders proclaiming the end of slavery. The orders came nearly two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation declared enslaved people in the Confederate states free.
The Juneteenth holiday commemorates June 19, 1865, when the Union Army arrived in Texas with federal orders proclaiming the end of slavery. The orders came nearly two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation declared enslaved people in the Confederate states free.
5:30 p.m.
People Get Ready | Exhibition and Artist Talk
Join the authors of People Get Ready for a discussion of their new book of iconic concert posters and the profound connections between Black American music, visual culture, and the Civil Rights Movement. This talk explores how Globe Poster Printing Corporation’s work reflects the power of music as both artistic expression and social change.
People Get Ready | Exhibition and Artist Talk
Join the authors of People Get Ready for a discussion of their new book of iconic concert posters and the profound connections between Black American music, visual culture, and the Civil Rights Movement. This talk explores how Globe Poster Printing Corporation’s work reflects the power of music as both artistic expression and social change.
7 p.m.
August Wilson Celebration
This powerful celebration honors the life, legacy, and enduring influence of August Wilson, one of America’s most important playwrights and chroniclers of the Black experience. Through scenes, readings, panel discussions, and conversation, the event highlights Wilson’s monumental American Century Cycle, capturing the triumphs, struggles, humor, and resilience of African American life across ten decades. Rooted in community and collective memory, the August Wilson Celebration affirms theater’s power as a mirror of lived experience and a catalyst for understanding, connection, and change.
August Wilson Celebration
This powerful celebration honors the life, legacy, and enduring influence of August Wilson, one of America’s most important playwrights and chroniclers of the Black experience. Through scenes, readings, panel discussions, and conversation, the event highlights Wilson’s monumental American Century Cycle, capturing the triumphs, struggles, humor, and resilience of African American life across ten decades. Rooted in community and collective memory, the August Wilson Celebration affirms theater’s power as a mirror of lived experience and a catalyst for understanding, connection, and change.
June 20, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
DANCE Celebrate!
Join us for a FREE Day of Dance! Step into the studio and experience the joy of movement. No experience and no registration required—just come ready to dance!
With classes for everyone, you can explore: Parent & Me classes for little movers, fun classes designed just for Tweens, High-energy Family Hip Hop and a variety of adult dance classes for all levels. You’ll have the opportunity to see two performances from our spring dance concert. Whether you’re trying dance for the first time or returning to the floor, there’s a class waiting for you!
DANCE Celebrate!
Join us for a FREE Day of Dance! Step into the studio and experience the joy of movement. No experience and no registration required—just come ready to dance!
With classes for everyone, you can explore: Parent & Me classes for little movers, fun classes designed just for Tweens, High-energy Family Hip Hop and a variety of adult dance classes for all levels. You’ll have the opportunity to see two performances from our spring dance concert. Whether you’re trying dance for the first time or returning to the floor, there’s a class waiting for you!
June 20, 7 p.m.
Rita Libretto Is: The Ring Cycle
By Rebecca Kidnie | Directed by Jessica Harika
Co-produced by River City Opera
Wagner’s Ring Cycle is often considered the pinnacle of operatic achievement—but who has time for all four operas? In this wildly entertaining and accessible performance, Rita Libretto sings, narrates, and reenacts the entire epic using handmade sock puppets, audience interaction, and a healthy dose of humor. Whether you’re new to opera or a seasoned aficionado, this fast-paced and irreverent take offers insider jokes, dramatic highlights, and an unforgettable operatic adventure.
Rita Libretto Is: The Ring Cycle
By Rebecca Kidnie | Directed by Jessica Harika
Co-produced by River City Opera
Wagner’s Ring Cycle is often considered the pinnacle of operatic achievement—but who has time for all four operas? In this wildly entertaining and accessible performance, Rita Libretto sings, narrates, and reenacts the entire epic using handmade sock puppets, audience interaction, and a healthy dose of humor. Whether you’re new to opera or a seasoned aficionado, this fast-paced and irreverent take offers insider jokes, dramatic highlights, and an unforgettable operatic adventure.
June 21, 3 p.m.
Opera, Broadway & the American Voice
Maryland Opera Artistic Director James Harp
Maryland Opera presents a Summer Serenade featuring beloved selections from both opera and Broadway, performed by three acclaimed singers. In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the program highlights work by American composers.
Opera, Broadway & the American Voice
Maryland Opera Artistic Director James Harp
Maryland Opera presents a Summer Serenade featuring beloved selections from both opera and Broadway, performed by three acclaimed singers. In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the program highlights work by American composers.
June 25 & 26, 7 p.m.
Lily, Arthur
By Sache J. Satta
Set in 1943, Lily, Arthur follows Private “Mac” McAllister, a young accompanist assigned to perform with Miss Lily Arthur, a singer entertaining the troops. Lily is, in fact, the alter ego of Captain Arthur Lily of the U.S. Army. When Mac is asked to create a female persona and perform a “sister act,” he becomes entangled in a complex romantic triangle involving Arthur and Captain Connie Heller of the Women’s Army Corps. The play traces Mac’s awakening as a proud gay man on the threshold of the postwar homophile movement.
Lily, Arthur
By Sache J. Satta
Set in 1943, Lily, Arthur follows Private “Mac” McAllister, a young accompanist assigned to perform with Miss Lily Arthur, a singer entertaining the troops. Lily is, in fact, the alter ego of Captain Arthur Lily of the U.S. Army. When Mac is asked to create a female persona and perform a “sister act,” he becomes entangled in a complex romantic triangle involving Arthur and Captain Connie Heller of the Women’s Army Corps. The play traces Mac’s awakening as a proud gay man on the threshold of the postwar homophile movement.
June 27, 7 p.m.
The Margin is Now the Center: Contested Bodies on Screen | Panel Discussion and Film Screening
The Margin is Now the Center: Contested Bodies on Screen is an exploration of Queer, Birthing and Marginalized bodies. This short film/video program will showcase work from artists and activists who are exploring what it means to be embodied and fully accepting of oneself during a time when marginalized bodies are actively being attacked politically and socially. In collaboration with Rooted, a black Queer healing collective in Baltimore, this three-hour event will include short film screenings followed by community conversations with the creators and activists focused on embodiment practices.
The Margin is Now the Center: Contested Bodies on Screen | Panel Discussion and Film Screening
The Margin is Now the Center: Contested Bodies on Screen is an exploration of Queer, Birthing and Marginalized bodies. This short film/video program will showcase work from artists and activists who are exploring what it means to be embodied and fully accepting of oneself during a time when marginalized bodies are actively being attacked politically and socially. In collaboration with Rooted, a black Queer healing collective in Baltimore, this three-hour event will include short film screenings followed by community conversations with the creators and activists focused on embodiment practices.
June 28, 3 p.m.
Give My Regards to Broadway | A Tribute to Lady Liberty and the Great American Musical
Join Carolyn Black-Sotir and American Music Theatre Artists for a rousing tribute to America’s greatest cultural treasure—the Broadway musical. Spanning more than 130 years, the program features work by iconic composers and lyricists whose music reflects the social, political, and cultural moments that have shaped our nation.
Steeped in the music, movement, and words of the American people, the Broadway musical is an essential part of our heritage—connecting us to our past while offering insight into the present. The program traces the influence of immigrant communities and African American artists in shaping this uniquely American art form.
At a time when the nation remains deeply divided, Give My Regards to Broadway reminds us of the beauty and power that emerge when diverse voices, cultures, and ideas come together. Join Carolyn and company as they invite you to “come along and listen to the lullaby of Broadway.”
Give My Regards to Broadway | A Tribute to Lady Liberty and the Great American Musical
Join Carolyn Black-Sotir and American Music Theatre Artists for a rousing tribute to America’s greatest cultural treasure—the Broadway musical. Spanning more than 130 years, the program features work by iconic composers and lyricists whose music reflects the social, political, and cultural moments that have shaped our nation.
Steeped in the music, movement, and words of the American people, the Broadway musical is an essential part of our heritage—connecting us to our past while offering insight into the present. The program traces the influence of immigrant communities and African American artists in shaping this uniquely American art form.
At a time when the nation remains deeply divided, Give My Regards to Broadway reminds us of the beauty and power that emerge when diverse voices, cultures, and ideas come together. Join Carolyn and company as they invite you to “come along and listen to the lullaby of Broadway.”