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December 2017
Sammons Jazz: A 30 Year Jazz Story
This historic performance features the current and previous Sammons Jazz artistic directors.
Find out more »Sammons Cabaret: Linda & Larry Petty
Surely one of the most energetic and charming couples on Earth, Linda and Larry Petty are lifelong performers with a global fan base on land and sea. They close the fall season with "Holiday Memories".
Find out more »January 2018
Sammons Cabaret & Cabernet
Beginning with a wine tasting, this semi-annual evening of fine music and fine wine is highlighted by a cabaret singer showcase with more than ten of the DFW area’s top vocalists. Each singer performs one song with several accompanied by the popular Larry Petty Combo. Reserved tables of eight guests cost $500 and reserved tables of six guests cost $400. Admission for all guests includes the wine tasting, cabaret showcase, light appetizers, beer, soft drinks, coffee, water, and valet parking.…
Find out more »February 2018
Sammons Jazz: Bop & Blow
Get ready for an exciting evening of bebop when pianist extraordinaire Kelly Durbin and his Bebop Band recall the era when Clifford Brown, Hank Mobley, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, and others moved jazz beyond swing. Joining Steve on stage are Mario Cruz on saxes, Ira Basset on trumpet and flugelhorn, Lou Harlas on bass, and Steve Barnes on drums. Magic happens when four amazing saxophonists perform on one stage. Saxomania features Shelley Carrol, Quamon Fowler, Ron Jones, and Chris McGuire…
Find out more »Sammons Cabaret: Kay Ellingson & Jennifer Martin: The Tender Trap
Finding love c'est magnifique! Two successful partnerships, two strong voices, and two excellent musicians unite in a musical demonstration of the wishin' and hopin', the falling and brawling, and the happy and sad, of amour. Kay and Kent Ellingson and Jennifer Martin and her husband, Greg Herring, perform a blend of jazz standards, Latin tunes, pop, and even a little country. Kay and Jennifer both sing lead and harmony. Kent is magical on keys (and on select songs, third harmony); Greg…
Find out more »March 2018
Sammons Jazz: Leigh Tomlinson Memorial Concert
Singer-songwriter Ashleigh Smith, a Georgia native who now calls Dallas home, shows why she won the 2014 Sarah Vaughan International Vocal Competition crown in 2014. She is winning legions of fans, too, with her warm vocals, range of styles, fresh take on classics, and engaging originals. Joel Cross’ talent and dedication as a vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter has captured attention around the globe, including that of Grammy Award®-winning singer India Arie. His band includes Colin Campbell on keys, Mike Luzecky…
Find out more »Sammons Cabaret: B.J. Cleveland: Laughing Matters
With more than 400 shows to his credit as an actor, director, and choreographer, B.J. Cleveland is no stranger to the stage or television screen. His many awards include recognition from the DFW Theater Critics Forum for his acclaimed performance in the regional premiere of The Nance. His fan base covers all ages, thanks to his work with Dallas Children’s Theater, Uptown Players, Kids Who Care, and 1:30 Productions. B.J. wowed the crowd during his Cabaret & Cabernet debut last…
Find out more »April 2018
Sammons Jazz: Sticks & Bones
Beloved drummer Andrew Griffith “keeps up with the Joneses” in this tribute to his favorite drummers: Papa Joe Jones, Philly Joe Jones, and Elvin Jones. With Sergio Pamies on piano, Jonathan Fisher on bass, Shelley Carrol on sax and flute, and Chris McGuire on sax, clarinet, and trumpet, Andrew also honors the history of jazz drumming with a performance by tap dancer Katelyn Harris. Sliding into a second set of swinging jazz is Bones and Such, a unique group of…
Find out more »Sammons Cabaret: Aubree-Anna
Aubree-Anna is a favorite at the WinStar World Casino and local venues like the Warwick Melrose Library and The Kitchen Café, making it a sure bet that her return to Sammons Cabaret will be a winner. The San Antonio native launched the series in February 2012 with a sold-out show and has since earned high praise for her smooth vocals and extensive repertoire of songs (more than 300!) from genres such as the Great American Songbook, jazz, pop, and country.…
Find out more »SAMMONS CENTER 30th ANNIVERSARY CONCERT Featuring Diane Schuur and Arlington Jones & The Brethren
The Sammons Center celebrates its 30th anniversary with a very special concert at Moody Performance Hall. Sammons Jazz Artistic Director, pianist, composer, and Steinway Artist Arlington Jones kicks off the concert with his group, Arlington Jones & The Brethren, in a toe-tapping, finger-snapping, hand-clapping, head-bobbing experience. The Brethren features Brannen Temple on drums and Nick Clark on bass. Internationally-acclaimed jazz vocalist/pianist Diane Schuur leads her ensemble in a memorable concert that showcases the rich stylings of jazz. Discovered “officially” by…
Find out more »May 2018
Sammons Cabaret: Janelle Lutz
Named the 2016 Sammons Cabaret Artist of the Year for her phenomenal cabaret performances at the Sammons Center, Janelle Lutz is also an award-winning actress who has won the hearts of North Texas audiences and critics alike. Her accurate portrayals of Judy Garland leave audiences wanting more, but her roles in productions like “South Pacific,” “Annie Get Your Gun,” “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” and “The Drowsy Chaperone” prove that the California native has boundless talent. Of course, adoring fans don’t mind…
Find out more »Celebrate Dance!
Learn. Watch. Move! The Sammons Center continues its 30th anniversary festivities with the free Celebrate Dance! open house. Come and go as you please and enjoy interactive dance classes and performances from 12 different local performing arts groups and instructors. Complimentary valet parking, light refreshments and the chance to win one of five prizes add to this fun and entertaining day. Admission is free, but advance registration is requested. Free Group Dance Classes: (Meadows Hall, 1st Floor) 1:00pm - 2:00pm: …
Find out more »June 2018
Summer Nights: Music @ The Perot with the Sammons Center
Stay late at the Perot Museum to get your musical fix as you are serenaded by pop-up performances, a presentation on how our brains interpret music, and your own musical creations throughout the Museum on this harmoniously planned evening! Activities are free with general admission. Delicious food and beverages for both kids and adults will be available for purchase. Highlights include -Live musical performances provided by The Sammons Center throughout the evening -Lecture about the brain pathways, featuring the Andrew…
Find out more »Family Art Day at Sammons
Families are invited to the Sammons Center for the Arts, located in the historic Turtle Creek Pump Station, to create art, pet an instrument and experience how art shapes the ultimate family-friendly activity. The free event also features the introduction of Sammie, the Sammons Center’s flying horse toy inspired by the beautifully painted Pegasus statue located in the center’s lobby. Part of the center’s 30th anniversary celebration, this interactive event includes complimentary valet parking and snacks. Free, but registration requested.
Find out more »Sammons Discovery: Dallas Jazz Harp Quartet
Led by award-winning harpist Cindy Horstman, the Dallas Jazz Harp Ensemble performs a magical concert of contemporary jazz on one of the world's oldest instruments. Joined by special guest Michael Medina on bass, the ensemble includes the highly-regarded freelance harpists Laura Logan Brandenburg and Kimberly Snaufer DeRosa. Expect a thrilling adventure featuring original works and standards. The concert is part of the Sammons Center's new Discovery series. Admission includes complimentary valet parking, light appetizers, and beverages. Sammons members receive a…
Find out more »September 2018
Sammons Jazz: Satchmo & New Orleans
It’s Mardi Gras in September! Wycliffe Gordon, one of the top trombonists of his generation, opens the fall season of Sammons Jazz with a two-set tribute to The Big Easy and two of its best-known native sons: trumpet players Louis Armstrong and Wynton Marsalis. Wycliffe starts the concert with a nod to Satchmo by trading his trombone for the trumpet. In the second set, Wycliffe recalls the early days of his career playing New Orleans-style music as the trombonist in…
Find out more »Brews, Bites & Beats
All Local Tastes. All Local Talents. Featuring Musical Guest: The Funky Knuckles Featuring craft beer tasting from three Texas breweries, food, and live music from Dallas jazz local favorite: The Funky Knuckles. Enjoy tastings of local craft beers, sample bites from great local restaurants, live music and tours of the historic Turtle Creek Pump Station. Admission includes 24ooz of beer samples, food samples, music, and free valet parking. Additional beers available for purchase at the event. **This is a 21+…
Find out more »Sammons Cabaret: Corey Breedlove
Spanning a range of genres as wide as Texas, singer/songwriter Corey Breedlove continues to evolve as an entertainer. He retains elements of jazz, country, blues, and rock in his music, creating a sophisticated yet genial sound that has made him a favorite of all age groups. His shows also demonstrate a fondness for the Great American Songbook, a style born out of his purchase of a Frank Sinatra CD for $1. Corey opens the fall 2018 season of Sammons Cabaret…
Find out more »Journalism & The Arts
The Sammons Center continues its 30th anniversary celebration with “Journalism & The Arts,” a free reception and panel discussion on Thursday, September 27, 7:00 p.m. Beginning with the reception to thank local journalists who cover the arts, the event is highlighted by “Keeping the Muse in the News,” a panel discussion addressing ways that journalists and arts groups can work together more effectively during a time of great changes in newsrooms, communications technology and consumer habits. Representing various forms of…
Find out more »October 2018
Sammons Jazz: Swing, Swing, Swing
Get your taste buds ready for The Texas Gypsies’ award-winning recipe of vintage jazzy swing made with the hep cat sounds of the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s, a dash of Western Swing, a sprinkle of Gypsy Jazz, and a pinch of Retro Deco. The Gypsies are leader Steve Curry on guitar, Brian Standridge on trumpet, Eugene Lebeaux on trombone, Mike Sizer on sax, Dale Morris, Jr. on violin, Drew Phelps on bass, and Andrew Griffith on drums. Whether adding a…
Find out more »Sammons Cabaret: Shelley Kenneavy
The Carson Series of Sammons Cabaret continues its fall 2018 season with the vivacious Shelley Kenneavy. Shelley presents "The Best of the Worst, Songs from Broadway Flops - Part II," another endearing show of songs from Broadway productions that didn’t win the hearts of audiences or critics, much less long runs or Tony Awards. Much like her renditions of “So Long Dude” and “Shopping Around” in previous appearances at the Sammons Center, Shelley gives these seldom-heard songs new life thanks…
Find out more »November 2018
Sammons Jazz: Ladies Jazz Night
The talented and inspirational saxophonist Rachella Parks-Washington blows into Sammons Jazz with her trademark uplifting jazz sounds. Since 2001, when she was diagnosed with sarcoidosis, Rachella has concentrated on the power of music as a healing element. Joining her onstage for the first set are Nate Young on piano, Leonard Hayward on violin, Chris DeRose on guitar, Jared Durham on bass, Deon Reed on drums, and Mark Whitsett on percussion. Two outstanding vocalists, Andrea Wallace and Simone Jackson, soar into…
Find out more »Sammons Cabaret: Tony Hakim (SOLD OUT)
Whether as a brilliant singer/guitarist or as the affable owner of The Kitchen Café, Tony Hakim has been a positive force in North Texas. Tony brings his mellow guitar playing and winsome vocals to the Carson Series of Sammons Cabaret in a two-set tribute to Glen Campbell, another singer/guitarist beloved for his authentic style. With a far-ranging repertoire that echoes Campbell’s, Tony’s show promises to be a memorable evening of heartfelt music and fascinating stories about the performer who delivered…
Find out more »December 2018
Sammons Jazz: O.P. to King Cole: My Favorite Trios
Sammons Jazz Artistic Director and Steinway Artist Arlington Jones salutes his two favorite trios, the Oscar Peterson Trio and the Nat King Cole Trio to wrap up the fall season. His love for these legendary groups grew from the tremendous piano playing they exhibited and their feel-good swinging music. Arlington plays Oscar Peterson, who was called O.P. by his friends, in the first set and Nat King Cole in an unforgettable second set. He is joined by James Driscoll on…
Find out more »Making Spirits Bright
This festive new concert is ideal for anyone who is young or young at heart! Enjoy holiday favorites performed by Linda and Larry Petty and other special performers. There's also a fun sing-along! Admission is $25 for adults, $5 for ages 13-18, and free for 12 years and under. Admission includes seasonal beverages, tasty bites, and valet parking.
Find out more »Sammons Cabaret: Jodi Crawford Wright
Lucky theater-goers know her from local productions such as “Nunsense,” “Boy from Oz,” and “The Sound of Music” while opera fans have enjoyed her performances in “Die Fledermaus,” “Suor Angelica,” and “Masque of Angels.” Jodi Crawford Wright has bewitched cabaret audiences across North Texas and thrilled audiences in Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi when she sang as a guest soloist with various ballet companies. Jodi brings her expansive vocal range and commanding stage presence to her "Belly Up To The Barbra"…
Find out more »January 2019
Astrid Merriman Cabaret & Cabernet Fete
Beginning with a wine tasting, the Astrid Merriman Cabaret & Cabernet Fete is a semi-annual evening of fine music and fine wine that kicks off the new season of Sammons Cabaret. The event is highlighted by a cabaret singer showcase with more than ten of the DFW area’s top vocalists. Each singer performs one song with several accompanied by the popular Larry Petty Combo. The singers on January 25 include Linda Petty, Chimberly Byrom, Chris Cree, Jay Gardner, Keron Jackson,…
Find out more »February 2019
Sammons Jazz: Swinging Sticks
The classic sound of jazz clarinet takes the first set in this sold out concert when the Chris McGuire Band salutes legends Goodman, Shaw, and Bechet. The second set features Drum Off, led by Andrew Griffith and Jaelun Washington, who recall the epic drum battles mounted by Elvin Jones and Max Roach.
Find out more »Sammons Discovery: Andy Timmons
Acclaimed guitarist Andy Timmons performs two sets featuring very different styles. He and fellow guitarist Nick Knirk open with music from artists as varied as Django Reinhardt and The Ventures to Jeff Beck and Queen. Timmons goes solo in the second set for his rendition of the Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.
Find out more »Sammons Cabaret: Goga
Influenced by American artists Buddy Guy, Marvin Gaye, and Barry White, singer Goga combined their sound with his Eastern European roots to put a new spin on an extensive repertoire of 2,000 songs encompassing jazz, blues, R&B, soul, and international favorites.
Find out more »March 2019
Sammons Jazz: Leigh Tomlinson Memorial Concert
This sold-out concert begins with a timeless first set showcases singers Carolyn Lee Jones, Sandra Kaye, Heather Paterson, and Tony Hakim. The all-star tribute to beloved jazz singer Leigh Tomlinson continues with innovative vocalists Garry Williams, Tatiana Mayfield, Candace "Mahogany" Miller, and Damon K. Clark. To be placed on the wait list, call the Sammons Center at (214) 520-7788.
Find out more »Sammons Cabaret: Sheran Goodspeed Keyton
This force of nature named Sheran Goodspeed Keyton not only sings, she acts, directs, choreographs, and teaches. Along with her award-winning portrayals of Bessie Smith and Mahalia Jackson, her role as Etta James so impressed one critic that she was tapped as "one of Dallas' reigning musical theater divas."
Find out more »Sammons Center Presents: José André Trio
Returning to the Sammons Center this March, the José André Trio will perform in a one-night-only concert. Born in Bolivia, blind with cerebral palsy, José has stunned audiences all over the world with his artistry, speed, and accuracy. His playful and inspired compositions bridge jazz, rock, blues, bossa nova, Latin American folklore, and world music. In honor of the Sammons Center’s commitment to sharing the therapeutic power of the arts, José, and the great work they do on behalf of…
Find out more »April 2019
Sammons Jazz: Jazz Springs Eternal
This sold-out concert begins with renowned jazz harpist Cindy Horstman fronts 2tone and the Dallas Jazz Harp Ensemble in a two-for-one set where strings rule. Pianist and composer Dave Zoller and Evidence share their appreciation of Thelonious Monk with selections from their recordings of the jazz giant's works. To be placed on the wait list, call the Sammons Center at (214) 520-7788.
Find out more »Sammons Cabaret: Diana Sheehan
Respected for her expansive stage work off-Broadway, on national tours, and in regional theaters across the nation, Diana Sheehan's cabaret shows have been produced in New York, Boston, and San Francisco. Her breathtaking vocals and skilled interpretations are on full display at Sammons Cabaret when she performs "Liner Notes: A Life in Song." This concert is sold out. To be placed on the wait list, please call (214) 520-7788.
Find out more »“Bolden” Film Premiere
Free, but reservations required. Email your name and desired number of seats to rsvp@sammonsartcenter.org. Click here to watch the film trailer.
Find out more »May 2019
Sammons Jazz: Artistic Director’s Concert
Sammons Jazz Artistic Director and Steinway Artist Arlington Jones leads The Brethren in a sold-out, two-set tribute to the series' past artistic directors: Vicho Vicencio, Roger Boykin, and James Gilyard. The concert also celebrates the release of the "Sammons Jazz Directors Cut" CD/DVD marking the 30th anniversary of the acclaimed concert series. To be placed on the wait list, call the Sammons Center at (214) 520-7788.
Find out more »Sammons Cabaret: Terry Loftis
The suave and urbane Terry Loftis closes the spring season of Sammons Cabaret with a musical trip to the great cabaret shows performed by Bobbie Short, Nina Simone, and other great nightclub singers. His cabaret show features tunes like “Satin Doll”, “Laura,” “Someone to Light Up My Life,” and so many other great standards.
Find out more »Sammons Discovery: Rhett Butler
Although known for playing two guitars at once, Rhett Butler is an accomplished guitarist whose true gift is his mastery of multiple styles. Recently inducted into Buddy magazine's Texas Tornado Hall of Fame, he has played alongside Joe Satriani, Tommy Emmanuel, and Eric Johnson. Currently a third-year medical student, Rhett reprises his trademark hammer-on playing style in this rare North Texas appearance.
Find out more »August 2019
Astrid Merriman Cabaret & Cabernet Fête
Beginning with a wine tasting, the evening is highlighted by a showcase of more than 10 of DFW's top singers. Each singer performs a selection from the Great American Songbook, Broadway, jazz, and pop, and most are accompanied by the Larry Petty Combo. Light appetizers and free valet parking included in admission. Single tickets are $60 per person; reserved tables of eight are $500 each and tables of six are $400 each.
Find out more »September 2019
Brews, Bites & Beats
Local Tastes & Local Talent. Featuring Musical Guest: Stockton Helbing Performs "Famous Beats Through Pop History" Featuring craft beer tasting from three Texas breweries, food, and live music from a local favorite: Stockton Helbing. Enjoy tastings of local craft beers, sample bites from great restaurants, live music and tours of the historic Turtle Creek Pump Station. 24 oz of beer samples and food samples available, music, and free valet parking. Stockton Helbing – drums Mike Urness – guitar Justin Schenk…
Find out more »October 2019
Journalism & The Arts
Arts communicators, arts journalists and journalism students are invited to attend this free event presented by the Sammons Center. A reception with light refreshments begins at 7 p.m., followed by a panel discussion about ways that journalists and arts groups can work together more effectively. Panelists are moderator Chris Heinbaugh, VP of External Affairs at the AT&T Performing Arts Center; Anne Bothwell, Vice President Arts, KERA; Alexa Conomos, co-anchor, Morning After with Ron and Alexa; Lauren Smart, Journalist and Professor…
Find out more »December 2019
Making Spirits Bright: Holiday Concert & Sing-along
Perfect for the young and young at heart, Making Spirits Bright features holiday music by Linda and Larry Petty and other local talent, seasonal beverages, tasty bites, and a sing-along. The event includes a fabulous holiday raffle. The grand prize is a Saks Fifth Avenue VIP Experience in Beverly Hills. Second prize is a matching set of custom opal and sapphire jewelry; third prize is a deluxe Dallas staycation. Winners will be announced at 8 p.m. Guests can also brighten…
Find out more »March 2020
Celebrate Dance! 2020
To ensure the safety and well-being of our patrons and artists, Celebrate Dance has been postponed. We hope to announce the rescheduled date soon.
Find out more »November 2020
Come Together: Sammons Jazz Artistic Director’s Virtual Concert
In appreciation of our members’ patience and ongoing support, the Sammons Center for the Arts premieres “Come Together: Sammons Jazz Artistic Director’s Virtual Concert" at 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, on Vimeo. Featuring Sammons Jazz Artistic Director and Steinway Artist Arlington Jones in a jazz double feature of his own compositions, the two-set, 150-minute-long performance opens with '73 Swing. Arlington, drummer Andrew Griffith, and bassist James Driscoll, who were all born in 1973, form a group reminiscent of the famed…
Find out more »December 2020
2020 D’JAM Legends of Jazz Awards
A virtual event honoring 2020 D’JAM (Dallas Jazz Appreciation Month) Jazz Legends for their contributions to the North Texas jazz community. The 2020 honorees are Johnny Case — Musician, John Murphy — Educator, Chuck Mandernach — Supporter and Caleb McCampbell — Innovator. To receive the Zoom link, email info@sammonsartcenter.org.
Find out more »Music From and Inspired by SOUL Sweepstakes
The Sammons Center, home to the long-running Sammons Jazz series, marks the December 25, 2020, release of Pixar's SOUL on Disney+, by giving away a new LP, Jon Batiste's "Music From and Inspired by SOUL." Batiste, who wrote and performed the film's jazz songs and served as a cultural consultant, may be best known for being the bandleader on "The Late Show With Stephen Colbert." Use the official entry form below for your chance to win the LP. Please note…
Find out more »