MIAC Live's 2023-2024 Season Preview
Vibrant, diverse entertainment continues at Mercyhurst University
The staff at Mercyhurst's Institute for Arts and Culture (MIAC) are constantly working to bring premier performing arts events to the people of Erie, and their 2023-2024 season may feature some of their most diverse, interesting, and talented acts yet. According to MIAC's artistic director Brett Johnson, "The Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture strengthens the vibrancy of the Erie region by presenting world-class performing arts experiences that lift the spirit, galvanize the intellect, stimulate the imagination, and encourage the free exchange of ideas."
And they do this by bringing in international performances that are affordable for a wide audience throughout the Erie region. Johnson continues, "By making these programs available and accessible to the broadest possible audience, the institute strives to create an environment of richly varied, inclusive cultural experiences."
Kicking off the season in September is Broadway star and Tony award winner, Sutton Foster, followed by a unique comedic and thought-provoking Cabaret performance from Alan Cumming and Ari Shapiro. The holidays this year will bring a New Orleans Jazz vibe, when the Preservation Hall Jazz Band presents their Creole Christmas ensemble, which is led by the founder of The Preservation Hall's son, Ben Jaffe. He reflects, "People come to Preservation Hall and have transformative experiences, and that's part of our mission: to go out in the world and make that experience available to people."
Transformative experiences are what MIAC strives for — providing entertainment that might not normally be available in Erie. Johnson comments, "Our upcoming season offers more of what patrons have come to expect: dynamic performers, both familiar and new, in a beautiful venue that enhances the energy and intimacy of live performance."
After the new year, expect more show-stopping, diverse performances from Broadway stars Jessica Vosk and Betty Buckley, underground soul superstar Sy Smith, a stomping romp with Step Afrika!, and Tony Award winner Gavin Creel.
It's important that the community continue to support these cultural programs so that their inspirational performances can continue well into the future. According to Johnson, that support can come in the form of donations, promotion, or simply enjoying the events, "Theaters nationwide are struggling to balance ever-increasing production costs with significantly reduced box office revenues, subscriptions, and donations. We can protect these cultural assets, which enrich our communities in countless ways by buying a ticket, purchasing a subscription, or making a donation."
Season tickets are available to purchase now, and individual event tickets will be available on Aug. 15 by visiting miac.mercyhurst.edu
Sutton Foster: Sept. 21
Alan Cumming and Ari Shapiro: Oct. 25
Preservation Hall Jazz Band: Nov. 28
Jessica Vosk: Feb. 29
Sy Smith: Mar. 12
Step Afrika!: Apr. 9
Betty Buckley: Apr. 19
Gavin Creel: May 1
