Performing Arts

"An excellence of connection, not the aesthetics of excellence."
—Bebe Miller

onStage

Five dancers stand in a circle facing out clapping their hands.
World Premiere
Next Performing Arts

SOLE Defined

Zaz: The Big Easy Presented by the Wexner Center for the Arts and The Ohio State University Office of Academic Affairs 

Performing Arts | Theater | Dance

Thu, Sep 4, 2025, 7:00 Pm
Multiple Dates/Times Available
A man in a shirt with a snakeskin design plays a trumpet. His movements are blurred in flashes of light.
Next Performing Arts

Etienne Charles & Creole Soul

Performing Arts | Music

Thu, Sep 18, 2025, 7:00 Pm
Multiple Dates/Times Available
A man in a black shirt and sunglasses smiles as he plays the drums.
World Premiere
Next Performing Arts

Mark Lomax II

Performing Arts | Music

Thu, Oct 2, 2025, 7:00 Pm
Five people in suits and rain boots stand with their hands on the back of the person in front. One is holding an umbrella.
Ohio Premiere
Next Performing Arts

The Old Man and the Sea

Presented by the Wexner Center, Opera Columbus, and Ohio State’s Office of Academic Affairs, and produced by Beth Morrison Projects

Performing Arts | Theater

Fri, Oct 10, 2025, 7:30 Pm
Multiple Dates/Times Available
a blurred image of three dancers sitting on the floor with their hands raised.
Midwest Premiere
Next Performing Arts

Wanjiru Kamuyu

Fragmented Shadows

Performing Arts | Dance

Wed, Oct 22, 2025, 7:00 Pm
Multiple Dates/Times Available
Two dancers on a stage one kneeling with her head back and arms wide the other standing looking down.
Next Performing Arts

Marion Ramirez and Ojeya Cruz Banks

Mareas/Tides

Performing Arts | Dance

Wed, Nov 5, 2025, 7:00 Pm
A group of dancers wearing colorful outfits lay on the floor, holding one dancer above.
World Premiere
Next Performing Arts

Doug Varone and Dancers

Copresented by The Ohio State University Department of Dance

Performing Arts | Dance

Fri, Nov 21, 2025, 7:00 Pm
A man wearing sunglasses sits in a chair next to a table with a saxophone on it.
Next Performing Arts

Immanuel Wilkins

Performing Arts | Music

Fri, Jan 23, 2026, 7:00 Pm
Multiple Dates/Times Available

About the Performing Arts Program

Our performing arts program features singular artists and companies from around the world who are transforming the creation and practice of contemporary dance, music, theater, and cross-disciplinary forms. Audiences enjoy dynamic, one-of-a-kind experiences at our performances, while students and faculty gain invaluable insights and learning opportunities at intimate talks and workshops. Each season, commissions and residencies are awarded to artists making field-defining new works—generous professional and financial support that distinguishes the Wex as a leader in the international performing arts community.

All Performing Arts