Subscription packages are on sale now for the 2014-15 University Arts Series season. This 19-event series features an exciting mix of nationally touring and professional performances and exciting concerts. This season features the return of Morgantown favorite Blue Man Group, the Broadway production of Sister Act, the hilarious comedy of Wanda Sykes and I Love Lucy Live On Stage. These are just a few events coming to the West Virginia University Creative Arts Center as part of the University Arts Series.

Subscription packages begin with four 4 events and may be purchased at the Mountainlair and Creative Arts Center box offices weekdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and by phone at 304-293-SHOW (7469).

The series line-up includes:

Dancing Pros Live — Wednesday, Nov. 5
In Dancing Pros Live, pros from “Dancing With The Stars,” “So You Think You Can Dance” and dance champions from around the globe compete in a dance-off on the Creative Arts Center stage. Using electronic voting remotes attached to every seat, each member of the audience will get a chance to vote for their favorite couple, becoming part of the show that will dazzle everyone with an amazing caliber celebrity and pro cast, a glamorous set, fantastic costumes, video packages, group numbers, and of course unbelievable dance moves. Don’t miss this incredible show hosted by TV’s Alan Thicke.

Blue Man Group — Sunday, Nov. 9
Experience the phenomenon. Blue Man Group is best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts, which combine comedy, music and technology to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. Although it is impossible to describe, people of all ages agree that Blue Man Group is an intensely exciting and wildly outrageous show that leaves the entire audience in a blissful, euphoric state. With no spoken language, Blue Man Group is perfect for people of all ages, languages and cultures. This unique experience is a form of entertainment like nothing else and guaranteed to be an outing you will never forget.

Melissa Etheridge — Wednesday, Nov. 12
Grammy-winning artist Melissa Etheridge will take the stage to perform songs from her new album, “This is M.E.,” as well as some of her greatest hits like “Come to My Window,” “I’m The Only One” and “I Want To Come Over.” Known for her iconic voice, profound lyrics and riveting stage presence, Melissa will share personal stories about her remarkable journey through life and the inspiration behind some of her most beloved songs.

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker — Thursday, Dec. 11
Moscow Ballet’s spectacular Great Russian Nutcracker is the must-see event of the holiday season. Internationally renowned for its commitment to Russian classical dance, the Moscow Ballet will captivate the entire family as 40 dancers bring this charming classic to life. Watch in awe as a young girl meets her prince on Christmas Eve. The New York Times raves about this performance, calling it a “knock out [that leaves] kids wide-eyed with delight.” Audiences will be enchanted by the Dove of Peace, with its 20-foot wingspan, the larger-than-life puppets and the elegant hand-made costumes—all set to Tchaikovsky’s famous score. Get your tickets today because this performance is sure to be a sell-out.

Wynonna — Friday, Dec. 19
A five-time Grammy winner and New York Times bestselling author, Wynonna’s career has always revolved around telling stories. Whether she’s using her rich, commanding voice to sing one of her countless hits or sitting down for one of her many bold, honest television appearances, Wynonna always gets her point across with unflinching honesty and wisdom gained over the course of her very public life. Now in her latest venture, Wynonna – along with her band, The Big Noise – will bring A Simpler Christmas to you as she performs some of her holiday favorites as well as her greatest hits. Sit back and be reminded of the simple blessings as you ring in the holiday season.

Wanda Sykes — Friday, Jan. 16
Dubbed by her peers “as one of the funniest stand-up comics,” comedienne Wanda Sykes comes to the Creative Arts Center for an evening of incredible comedy. Ranking among Entertainment Weekly’s 25 Funniest People in America, Sykes has showcased her unique and hilarious view of the world in everything from sketch shows, sitcoms, stand-up specials and books. Sykes has been a fixture of television, winning four Emmys for her work on “The Chris Rock Show” and “Inside the NFL,” to appearing on “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” “The New Adventures of Old Christine” and her multiple HBO and Comedy Central stand-up specials. She also appeared in the films “Evan Almighty,” “Nutty Professor 2: The Klumps” and “Down To Earth.” In 2010 she won a GLAAD award for promoting a good image of equal rights for gays and lesbians.

Million Dollar Quartet — Thursday, Jan. 22
Million Dollar Quartet is the high-voltage Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, inspired by the phenomenal true story of the famed recording session that brought together rock ‘n’ roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for the first and only time. This thrilling musical brings you inside the recording studio to experience a monumental night of rock and roll that explodes off the stage. It’s the most fun you’ll have all year. Rock and Roll’s best-kept secret … revealed, Million Dollar Quartet.

The 5 Browns — Monday, Feb. 9
Whether performing individually or together in various combinations from duo to complex five-piano arrangements, The 5 Browns bring a fresh energy and dynamic character to the color and tonal spectrum of their sound—waking up classical music! The 5 Browns—Ryan, Melody, Gregory, Deondra and Desirae—all attended New York’s Juilliard School, becoming the first family of five siblings ever accepted simultaneously. The quintet enjoyed their first wave of critical attention in 2002 when People magazine dubbed them the “Fab Five” and they were featured on “Oprah” and “60 Minutes.” The 5 Browns have released three CDs that each went to No. 1 on Billboard Magazine’s Classical Album Chart. The New York Post has proclaimed: “One family, five pianos and 50 fingers add up to the biggest classical music sensation in years ? When these kids do Rachmaninoff, they’ll make you forget about Marshall amps.” Individually and collaboratively, they have soloed with orchestras around the world, including The National Symphony Orchestra and the Orchestre de chamber de Paris. They have also been featured in the PBS special, “The 5 Browns in Concert.” See the quintet that Entertainment Weekly calls “somewhat otherworldly.”

Richard Marx — Sunday, Feb. 15
Richard Marx’s career as a singer, songwriter, musician and producer has spanned nearly three decades. He has made history with a string indelible hits, including “Don’t Mean Nothing,” “Should’ve Known Better,” “Hold Onto the Nights” and “Right Here Waiting.” He has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, earned 14 No. 1 singles, and is the only male artist to simultaneously chart seven Top 5 singles on Billboard charts. On his latest album, “Beautiful Goodbye,” Marx offers up a set of sensual, electronic–driven soundscapes that explore a more fleeting, carnal side of romance. His touring schedule takes him to locales across the U.S., Europe, China and Russia. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with an unforgettable evening of music from this incredible balladeer.

Sister Act — Sunday, Feb. 22
Sister Act is Broadway’s feel-amazing musical comedy smash! The New York Post calls it “ridiculously fun,” and audiences are jumping to their feet in total agreement! Featuring original music by 8-time Oscar winner Alan Menken (Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Little Shop of Horrors), Sister Act tells the story of Deloris Van Cartier, a wannabe diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a crime and the cops hide her in the last place anyone would think to look—a convent. Under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own. A sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship, Sister Act is reason to rejoice.

Anything Goes — Sunday, March 1
All aboard for this saucy and splendid production of Anything Goes, winner of three 2011 Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival and Choreography. Peppering this Cole Porter first-class comedy are some of musical theater’s most memorable standards, including “I Get a Kick out of You,” “You’re the Top” and of course, “Anything Goes.” Don’t miss what the Associated Press exclaims as, “So delightful, so delicious, so de-lovely!”

The Spinners — Friday, March 6
The Spinners were the greatest soul group of the early ‘70s. Their music defined the lush, seductive sound of Philly soul. With 12 gold records, 18 Top 40 hits, and six Grammy nominations to their credit, they are more popular today than ever. Original member Henry Fambrough is joined onstage by lead singer Charlton Washington, high tenor Marvin Taylor, tenor Ronnie Moss and bass singer Jessie Peck. The five are backed by a soul-infused five-piece band and the result is sophisticated, up-tempo R&B with precision choreography. “Working My Way Back to You,” “Then Came You,” “Games People Play,” “The Rubberband Man,” and the list goes on.

Don Felder — Friday, March 20
Don Felder is a four-time Grammy Award winner, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member, New York Times bestselling author and captivating performer. Felder is best known as a former lead guitarist of The Eagles, one of the most popular and influential rock groups of our time. The band’s record setting compilation “Their Greatest Hits (1971-1975)” sold over 29 million copies in the U.S. alone and was named the RIAA top-selling album of the 20th Century. A 27-year member of The Eagles, Felder put his mark on numerous Eagles milestones. He co-wrote “Hotel California,” one of rock’s all-time greatest tracks. He is celebrated for his lyrical, signature guitar work on “One of These Nights,” “New Kid in Town,” and many more. His husky vocal style and distinct guitar vibe are evident on his new CD “The Road to Forever.” Felder’s latest single, “You Don’t Have Me,” spent 12 weeks in the top 5 on the classic rock media charts hitting No.1 four times. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of music with one of rock music’s guitar legends.

Bela Fleck with Abigail Washburn — Thursday, April 9
Banjoists B�la Fleck and Abigail Washburn have mastered the deceptively intricate art of the duet. Fleck is known for his viruosic, jazz-to-classical ingenuity and as an iconic instrumentalist and composer with bluegrass roots. Washburn, on the other hand, brings the earthly sophistication of a postmodern, old-time singer-songwriter to the mix. Theirs is a one-of-a-kind pairing. Their performances embrace a diversity almost unthinkable—coming from just two banjos and one voice. Washburn’s beguiling composing, playing and singing blend with Fleck’s riveting and virtuosic musicianship to create music both unique and yet familiar in texture. Fleck, a 15-time Grammy winner, has collaborated with Chick Corea, Oumou Sangare, Zakir Hussain, Edgar Meyer, Dave Mathews, Earl Scruggs, and the entire Cleveland Orchestra. Washburn’s banjo has taken her far beyond the usual comfort zone, musically and geographically. An alumnus of Uncle Earl, the powerhouse all-female stringband, Abby’s adopted second homeland is China, and her music resounds with echoes of Appalachia and the tidal wave of emerging Chinese cultural influence. Together, Fleck and Washburn employ the relatively rare three-finger and clawhammer banjo duet to create an explosion of musical white heat.

Pure Prairie League & Poco — Friday, April 24
Pure Prairie League’s signature hit “Aimee” is one of the most well-known and beloved country rock songs of all time. Known for its hits “Two Lane Highway,” “Let Me Love You Tonight” and “Early Morning Riser,” the band’s longevity is a testament to the timelessness of its music. Today, Pure Prairie League has returned to its roots—no sax, but pedal steel guitar—and it’s no surprise that the band is still proving that good music is still good music no matter when or where it’s played. It can easily be argued that country rock pioneers Poco first created the combination of vocal harmonies, country instruments, and rock and roll rhythms that became known as country rock. Four decades later Rusty Young, who wrote and sang “Crazy Love” and “Heart of the Night,” still leads this incredible band. With 24 original albums and 26 “Best of” and anthology collections, Poco remains one the most prolific bands in rock history. See these two legendary bands together on the Creative Arts Center stage.

Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s Beauty & The Beast — Sunday, April 26
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre brings a vivid new story ballet to Morgantown audiences with Lew Christensen’s Beauty and the Beast, an imaginative interpretation of the time-honored tale of inner beauty. From the Beast’s imposing castle to the enchanted forest, Beauty and the Beast illustrates the transformative power of love through striking set design, inventive choreography and a cast of fanciful characters. Under the direction of Terrence S. Orr, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre has built a legacy of excellence and innovation since its founding in 1969.

Camelot — Thursday, April 30
Experience Camelot’s “one brief shining moment” as Lerner and Loewe envisioned it in one of theater’s most legendary musicals. Recount the time-honored legend of King Arthur, Guinevere, Lancelot, and the Knights of the Round Table in an enchanting fable of chivalry, majesty, and brotherhood in this four-time Tony Award-winning show. Camelot tells the story of the legend of King Arthur who rules his kingdom with new ideals, bringing peace to a troubled land. But when his beautiful new Queen Guinevere and the dashing Sir Lancelot, his most trusted knight, give in to their passion for one another, one of the most fabled love triangles of all time ensues. When Mordred, King Arthur’s illegitimate son, catches on and sees a kingdom in chaos, he attempts to destroy all that is Camelot. Intimate and fresh, never has this story of passion, pageantry and betrayal been more captivating. The celebrated score includes the classics “If Ever I Would Leave You,” “The Simple Joys of Maidenhood,” and the title song, “Camelot.”

“Straighten Up & Fly Right” The Nat King Cole Tribute featuring Ramsey Lewis & John Pizzarelli — Sunday, May 3
Nat King Cole broke the pop barrier with his smoky, smooth vocals, stringing along a huge number of solid hits right after his first, “Straighten Up and Fly Right,” soared up the charts in 1943. As a singer, he was called “the best friend a song ever had,” but he was essentially a jazz performer at heart. Even those later tracks crafted for the pop charts belie a piano technique, vocal phrasings and on-the-mark orchestration that are indebted to his early roots in jazz. Ramsey Lewis and John Pizzarelli have crafted a tribute to the titan of ‘50s vocal pop that includes not only his hits but also those singular tracks of sophisticated cool jazz that have influenced their own careers. The Seattle Times calls Pizzarelli “a master of Nat King Cole.” Jazz legend, pianist and composer, Ramsey Lewis has three Grammy Awards and seven Gold records to his credit. Lewis is also a recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters Award. Join us for an incredible tribute to Nat King Cole by two artists who know him best.

I Love Lucy Live On Stage — Tuesday, May 5
I Love Lucy Live On Stage is the brand-new hit stage show adapted from the most beloved program in television history. It’s 1952 and you are a member of the Desilu Playhouse studio audience awaiting the filming of two hilarious and oh-so-familiar “I Love Lucy” episodes. A charming host entertains and enlightens you to the behind-the-scenes filming process of this brand new thing called “television,” the Crystaltone Singers perform advertising jingles in perfect ‘50s style harmony and the sidesplitting antics of America’s favorite foursome – Lucy, Ricky, Fred and Ethel – are presented live on stage and in color for the very first time. It’s a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience TV Guide’s William Keck calls “the most entertaining stage production I’ve seen in years – including Broadway!” The truth is in the title – whether young or old, everybody really does love Lucy.

Series subscription packages are on sale now at the Mountainlair and Creative Arts Center box offices or by calling 304-293-SHOW (7469). All performances are held in the Lyell B. Clay Concert Theatre of the WVU Creative Arts Center.

Ticket prices vary by event. Series ticket prices include sales tax and/or box office fees. Packages begin with a minimum of four events. Current season subscribers must subscribe by Oct. 10 to keep their seating priority from last season. Subscription order forms are available for download at events.wvu.edu. Series prices expire Oct. 15.

The University Art Series is produced by WVU Arts & Entertainment. For tickets and subscription information, call 304-293-SHOW or visit us online at events.wvu.edu. Stay connected with the latest event updates through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram by following @wvuevents.

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CONTACT: David Ryan, WVU Arts & Entertainment
304-293-8222, David.Ryan@mail.wvu.edu