The North Central College Fine and Performing Arts Center in Naperville, Illinois, is set to host an array of captivating performances this season. The Wentz Concert Hall will welcome the Chicago Sinfonietta for a unique exploration of the Black female experience titled "Black Being," followed by the DuPage Symphony Orchestra's "Beyond Beautiful." Additionally, the college's Departments of Music and Theater will present a variety of concerts and productions throughout the remainder of the 2024-2025 season, offering something for every taste and age group.
The upcoming events promise a rich cultural experience with innovative performances that blend various art forms. Highlights include Flutronix's electro-acoustic tribute to Martin Luther King Jr., newly commissioned texts by poet laureate Jaki Shelton Green, and a diverse lineup of faculty recitals and student showcases. Tickets are available through the North Central College Box Office, ensuring easy access to these remarkable events.
Innovative Performances Celebrate Cultural Diversity
North Central College kicks off the second half of its 2024-2025 season with a groundbreaking performance by the Chicago Sinfonietta. On January 19, the Wentz Concert Hall will come alive with "Black Being," a multimedia exploration of the Black female experience. This event features the composer-performer duo Flutronix, who seamlessly merge classical music with hip-hop and electronic elements. Through a combination of lighting, poetry, and orchestral soloists, this performance pays homage to Martin Luther King Jr. while giving voice to the complexities of Black womanhood.
This one-of-a-kind event celebrates influential creators and socially conscious changemakers. Flutronix, composed of Nathalie Joachim and Allison Loggins-Hull, are known for their innovative approach to music, blending genres and pushing boundaries. The newly commissioned texts by poet laureate Jaki Shelton Green add another layer of depth to the performance, providing powerful narratives that resonate with contemporary issues. The concert not only honors historical figures but also highlights the ongoing struggles and triumphs of Black women today. With tickets priced between and , this performance offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience a fusion of art and activism.
Diverse Offerings Enrich the Community
Beyond the Chicago Sinfonietta, the North Central College Fine and Performing Arts Center continues to enrich the community with a wide range of performances. In February, the DuPage Symphony Orchestra returns to the Wentz Concert Hall with "Beyond Beautiful," a concert that promises to captivate audiences with its musical excellence. Scheduled for February 16, this event features a selection of pieces that highlight the orchestra's versatility and talent. Tickets for this performance range from to , making it accessible to a broad audience.
The Departments of Music and Theater at North Central College have planned an extensive lineup of events for the remainder of the season. From theatrical productions like "The 39 Steps" and "Assassins" to faculty recitals and student showcases, there is no shortage of opportunities to engage with the arts. Notable events include the Department of Music Honors Recital on February 8, the Winter Choral Festival on February 19, and the Spring Choral "Finale!" Concert on April 4. Each performance offers a unique perspective and contributes to the vibrant cultural landscape of Naperville. For those interested in jazz, several faculty recitals and ensemble concerts provide a platform for exploring this genre in depth. Whether you're a seasoned arts enthusiast or new to the scene, North Central College's offerings ensure there's something for everyone.