Join us in exploring a world of arts & culture at MSU

The smash hit musical, MAMMA MIA!, is the ultimate feel-good show that is high in demand and keeps audiences coming back for more! The musical combines ABBA's greatest hits, which include: Dancing Queen, S.O.S and Take a Chance on Me. The music is the magical backdrop to an enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship. Don't let this opportunity pass you by!

The Song and Dance Ensemble of West Africa is a powerful group of musicians, coming straight to you from Mali. Their rich musical traditions come alive through this incredible ensemble led by Bamba Dembele. Their unique fusion of folklore and contemporary themes have gained great notoriety around the world. This is a performance not to be missed!

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, is known as one of the most innovative and thrilling dance companies in the United States. Founded in 1977 by the inspiring leadership of artistic director Jim Vincent, this company is one of the most original forces in contemporary dance. The company has had collaborations with artists in music, visual arts and the theatre. They display an incredible prowess of versatility and unparalleled excellence. The Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, hopes to encourage audiences to think and explore emotions through the experience of dance. Chicago Sun Times exclaims, this dance company displays "fluid brilliance and understated virtuosity." You can't experience this awe inspiring performance anywhere else. Prepare to be moved and mesmerized.

GREASE, TIME magazine's 2007 pick for "#1 musical of the year,"is rockin' across the country in this new production direct from Broadway! The one that you want is back! So throw your mittens around your kittens and Hand Jive the night away with the critically acclaimed Broadway musical, GREASE!!

The Russian National Ballet Theatre proudly performs Sleeping Beauty, which is often considered the finest achievement of the classical ballet. Set to the music of Tchaikovsky, Sleeping Beauty is a fairytale that comes alive amidst a lavish theatrical set with magical effects and courtly splendor. Do not miss this magical performance!

Sorority star Elle Woods does not take "no" for an answer! After her boyfriend dumps her for someone "serious" she decides to hit the books and go where no Delta Nu has gone before: Harvard to study law! She proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style! Hailed by critics as "the funniest new musical of the year" and "sheer fun" this broadway show is created by Tony Award-winning director/choreographer Jerry Mitchel of Hairspray; composer and lyricist Laurence O'Keefe of Batboy; Nell Benjamin of Sarah Plain and Tall; book writer Heather Hach of Freaky Friday and scenic designer David Rockwell of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. TIME magazine says it's "an Elle of a show!"

The soul-stirring live music and electrifying dance of the thrilling martial art of capoeira, brings the passion of Brazilian folk traditions to you in DanceBrazil's spirited performances. This performance captures all the life, energy and pulse of its scintillating culture. DanceBrazil has been touring the world for 25 years. It's your turn to experience Brazil's infectious rhythm and color with this gravity defying company. You'll be left cheering for more!

After more than 3,500 performances, 2 1/2 years sold out in Europe, six months in Australia, tours in China, Israel and India, South Africa's longest running show is coming to Wharton Center! The hypnotic heartbeat of the African drum, the soulful saxophone and the haunting pennywhistle, meld Afro- and Euro-centric music and dance into an explosive stampede of song and dance that tells the vibrant and diverse history of South Africa. A cast of 30 energetic performers has created a show so exciting and entertaining that critics hail African Footprint is to South Africa what Riverdance is to the Irish and Stomp is to the Brits!

Experience the phenomenon of Disney's THE LION KING when East Lansing's best-loved musical returns to the Wharton Center stage. Visually stunning, technically astounding and with a musical score like none you've ever heard. Giraffes strut, birds swoop, gazelles leap. As the entire savannah comes to life and as the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. See the Tony Award®-winning Broadway sensation that Newsweek calls "a landmark event in entertainment." The New York Times says, "There is simply nothing else like it." Marvel at the breathtaking spectacle of animals brought to life by a cast of more than 40 actors. Wonder at the inspiration of award- winning director Julie Taymor, who created visual images for this show that you'll remember forever. Thrill to the pulsating rhythms of the African Pridelands and an unforgettable score including Elton John and Tim Rice's Oscar-winning song "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" and "Circle of Life."

The Chicago-based performance artist and women's studies theorist, Melissa Thompson, is teaching and performing with groups of students throughout the year.

Co-Sponsored by the MSU University Activities Board