2025-2026 Purdue Convocations Season

Press

Five performers in traditional attire enthusiastically play Japanese taiko drums on stage, each holding drumsticks mid-motion, with energetic expressions and dramatic lighting highlighting the scene. From KODO: Luminance

News

Six traditional KODO Japanese taiko drummers perform on stage with large drums, illuminated by bright luminance behind them, creating dramatic silhouettes and a smoky atmosphere.

Purdue Convocations Unveils the 2026–27 Season

May 06, 2026

A large Purdue Day of Giving Thank You! badge is centered over a black-and-white background of people performing athletic or yoga poses, highlighting the power of community support.

Generous community support helped Convos break Purdue Day of Giving records

Apr 30, 2026

A smiling man in a white nurse outfit with a stethoscope stands in front of a blue sky background. Text reads: Nurse Blake But Did You Die? Comedy Tour, November 18, Loeb Playhouse.

Nurse Blake brings his ‘BUT DID YOU DIE?’ Tour to Purdue

Apr 14, 2026

Four smiling women stand on a ship deck, each holding a colorful fan and waving. They appear joyful and confident, dressed in bright casual clothing—celebrating friendship and embracing menopause against a sea view under the blue sky.

‘Menopause the musical 2’ cruises to West Lafayette

Apr 06, 2026

ALL NEWS

Season & Brand Images

Find our press releases and materials here. Click photos below for a high-resolution version.

Convos logo
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Announcement graphic for Purdue Convocations’ 2026/27 season featuring shows: Clue Live on Stage, Kodo, Riverdance, Black Panther in Concert, Shucked, and The Wiz, with a gold sparkly background.
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Announcement for Purdue Convocations 2026/27 season, featuring show titles: Clue, Shucked, Kodō, The Wiz, Black Panther in Concert, and Riverdance 30: The New Generation, on a gold, sparkling background.
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Five performers in traditional attire enthusiastically play Japanese taiko drums on stage, each holding drumsticks mid-motion, with energetic expressions and dramatic lighting highlighting the scene. From KODO: Luminance
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For media inquiries, please contact:
James Britton, Director of Marketing, 765-494-5045 or jamesbritton@purdue.edu

2026-2027 Purdue Convocations season

Mucca Pazza

September 9, 2026 \ All-Day Event
Purdue University Indianapolis Campus

September 10, 2026 | All-Day Event
Purdue University West Lafayette Campus

Like any marching band, you’ll hear Mucca Pazza before you see them—but that’s where the similarities end. Their genre-bending music spans surf rock to Stravinsky, paired with colorful thrift-store outfits, absurdist cheerleaders, and eclectic instruments. A staple of Chicago’s underground since 2004, they bring lively, free pop-up performances to campus.

Presented by the Office of the Vice Provost for Student Life and the Senior Vice Provost/Chief Academic Officer for Purdue in Indianapolis 

A diverse group of people in colorful, mismatched marching band uniforms pose with various instruments in a gymnasium. Some hold brass and woodwind instruments, while others wave bright pom-poms. They are smiling and playful.
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31st Annual West Lafayette Global Fest

FREE EVENT | September 19, 2026 | 3PM
Downtown West Lafayette

Celebrate global cultures at the 31st Annual West Lafayette Global Fest! Presented by the City of West Lafayette, Purdue Convocations, and the International Center, this free, family-friendly event features international music, cuisine, and hands-on cultural activities. Enjoy sights, sounds and flavors from around the world—right in West Lafayette! Main stage headliners include Brazilian singer Bia Ferreira and her messages of feminism, love, and social justice, and Ghanaian musician Gyedu-Blay Ambolleyand his fusion of high-life, Afrobeat, Afropop, funk, and jazz. 

Support from the City of West Lafayette, International Center, Purdue Convocations, Visit Lafayette/West Lafayette, Kettlehut Construction, John Martinson Honors College, Flora Roberts Fund, Bowen Engineering, Henriott Group, IU Health, Purdue Federal Credit Union, Wessler Engineering, BE Represented, Christopher B. Burke Engineering, O.W. Krohn and Associates 

A person with brown skin wearing a colorful headwrap in red, yellow, and green, perfect for the 30th Annual West Lafayette Global Fest, looks directly at the camera. They have tattoos, rings, a septum piercing, and a beaded bracelet.
Bia Ferreira
Black and white photo of a man in a beret and T-shirt playing a saxophone, focused on his performance. Captured against a plain background, this image celebrates the spirit of the 30th Annual West Lafayette Global Fest.
Gyedu-Blay Ambolleyand

The Lord Chamberlain’s Men present William Shakespeare’s Othello

October 14-15, 2026 | 7PM
Loeb Playhouse

This fall, UK theatre company The Lord Chamberlain’s Men brings an historically-informed production of Shakespeare’s Othello to Purdue. Staying true to the Elizabethan era, the performance features an all-male cast, with period costumes, music, and dance. The tragedy follows Othello, whose life and marriage are destroyed by Iago’s manipulation—an intense story of jealousy, deception, and ruin.

Support from Bob & Patti Truitt, Westminster Village with additional support from Leonora & Harold Woodman Endowment for Theatre and Cornerstone Integrated Liberal Arts 

A theatrical poster with a green background displays William Shakespeare’s Othello in large white letters, highlighting this legendary Shakespeare play, with a quote from the Yorkshire Post praising its authenticity in the top right corner.

The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John with Michael Cavanaugh

October 16, 2026 | 8PM
Loeb Playhouse

The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John showcases the greatest hits of two rock piano legends. Starring Tony and Grammy nominee Michael Cavanaugh—handpicked by Billy Joel for Movin’ Out—the show delivers high energy and precision. Dubbed “The New Piano Man,” he captures the iconic vocals and piano style of both artists in a powerful tribute.

Support from Arni’s Restaurant, University Place, Q106.7 with additional support from Union Club and 8Eleven Modern Bistro 

Three musicians perform passionately on stage under warm lights—one plays electric guitar, another sings into a microphone, and the third plays saxophone. The text Michael Cavanaugh, famed for his Billy Joel performances, is displayed above them.
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A young man in a black shirt sits in front of a piano, smiling softly. The background is dark with subtle abstract lines and light flares, creating a modern, artistic atmosphere.
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Bang on a Can All-Stars: 90/90

November 5, 2026 | 7:30PM
Loeb Playhouse

Formed in 1992, the Bang on a Can All-Stars are a dynamic, six-member amplified ensemble that shatters musical boundaries. In this concert, the All-Stars will perform a brand-new arrangement of Philip Glass’ Glassworks in its entirety, alongside Steve Reich’s acclaimed rock quintet 2×5 and New York Counterpoint, in honor of these two legendary composers and their birthday milestones.

Support from Gordon & Harriet Coppoc, Westminster Village, Union Club and 811 Modern Bistro with additional support from Jeanne Compton Endowment for Artistic Excellence and  Based in Lafayette 

Six people, the Bang On A Can All-Stars, stand on outdoor stone steps. One holds a cello, another a clarinet, and a third an electric guitar. They pose in casual and semi-formal clothing by a curved metal railing, with greenery behind them.
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Five musicians from the Bang On A Can All-Stars music ensemble stand together holding their instruments, including an electric guitar, cello, and woodwind, against a light stone wall. They wear patterned, colorful clothing and face the camera as a group.
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Scott Silven’s At The Illusionist’s Table

November 10-14, 2025 | 7PM
John Purdue Room

Scott Silven returns to Purdue with his intimate, mind-bending At the Illusionist’s Table. This 21+ benefit, exclusive to Friends of Convocations, features six seatings of 24 guests. Each includes a bespoke three-course dinner, curated wine and single-malt pairings, and immersive illusion—supporting Purdue Convocations.  

This limited engagement will go on sale exclusively to members of the Friends of Convos in early July. Ticket requests will be filled in Priority Points order. For ages 21+. 

Support from Christ & Cindy Meyer with additional support from Purdue Convocations Innovative Performance Fund 

A person in a suit sits at a dimly lit table with a laptop, illuminated by a three-candle candelabra reminiscent of the Illusionist’s Table, creating a dramatic and mysterious atmosphere inspired by Scott Silven.
A man in a suit stands in dim lighting beside a candle-lit dining table set for several people, an easel and bottle in the background, evoking the mysterious and moody atmosphere of Scott Silven’s Illusionist’s Table immersive experience.
A man in a suit arranges items on a formally set table with lit candles, glassware, and decorative branches, against a dark background.

Nurse Blake: But Did You Die? Comedy Tour

November 23, 2025 | 3PM
Loeb Playhouse

Tickets on sale now: https://convocations.purdue.edu/event/nurse-blake/
  
Nurse Blake arrives in West Lafayette with his hilarious new comedy tour, But Did You Die? The former ICU nurse-turned comedian and healthcare advocate brings fresh material exploring the absurd and wild things patients and their families do. From over-the-top WebMD self-diagnoses to treating the hospital call light like a game show buzzer, nothing is off-limits. 

Support from Outback Presents  
Additional local support from Mad Mushroom 

A smiling man in a white nurse outfit with a stethoscope stands in front of a blue sky background. Text reads: Nurse Blake But Did You Die? Comedy Tour, November 18, Loeb Playhouse.
Nurse Blake, dressed in blue medical scrubs with a stethoscope around his neck, stands against a plain white background, arms crossed as he gestures playfully to the side with a questioning expression.
A man with short brown hair and a beard, wearing a dark blue sweater and black pants, stands smiling against a plain white background.
A man with short hair and a beard stands smiling against a plain white wall, wearing a checked blazer, dark pants, a dark shirt, and white sneakers. His hands are in his pockets and he leans slightly to one side.
A man with short hair and a beard, wearing a black t-shirt, black pants, and white sneakers with black accents, walks confidently while smiling against a plain white background.

Gravity & Other Myths’ Ten Thousand Hours

November 19, 2026 | 7:30 PM
Loeb Playhouse

Featuring eight world-class acrobats, this performance is a tribute to the dedication and intense practice required to achieve physical mastery. By exploring the hidden nuances and grueling backstory behind elite acrobatics, the troupe delivers a love letter to the human body—inviting audiences to deeply appreciate the countless hours of hard work that make their breathtaking skills possible. 

Support from Jeanne Compton Endowment for Artistic Excellence and Friends of Convocations Programming Endowment 
Additional support from Wintek and Holiday Inn City Centre

Six performers do handstands on stage in front of a large neon digital clock display, with two standing on boxes and a drummer playing in the background under purple lighting.
Four acrobats perform a balancing act on stage during Jim Brickman: The Gift of Christmas; one man lifts another on his shoulders while holding the hand of a woman suspended horizontally in midair, as another performer stands in the background.

Doktor Kaboom: Under Pressure!

November 22, 2026 | 3PM
Loeb Playhouse

Be amazed by the power of pressure – and what it can teach us.Equal parts interactive science, comedy, and personal empowerment messages, Doktor Kaboom returns with a new show. Doktor Kaboom: Under Pressure!. The show illustrates physical science concepts that are also metaphors for real-life mental and emotional pressures.

Support from Barash Law, Mad Mushroom, Guido Family Dentistry with additional support from All Aboard for the Arts Endowment and Bill Edward Wilburn Endowment

A person in an orange suit and yellow gloves holds a magnifying glass up to their eye, creating a comical enlarged-eye effect. With tool belts around their waist, they resemble Eric Zuber ready for a playful investigation.
A man with spiky blond hair, goggles, and gloves covers his ears and looks surprised. He wears an orange lab coat. Above him, large orange text reads UNDER PRESSURE!.
A person in an orange coat, black gloves, and goggles kneels while humorously holding up a large globe above their shoulders against a white background, mimicking the pose of Atlas.
A person wearing black goggles, an orange lab coat, black pants, and gloves holds a large, toy-like gadget that resembles a futuristic blaster. The background is white.
A man with spiky blond hair and a goatee wears an orange lab coat, black gloves with yellow accents, and round black goggles. He covers his ears with his fingers and makes a surprised, wide-mouthed expression.
A surprised man with spiky blond hair, wearing black goggles on his head, black gloves with yellow stripes, and an orange lab coat, holding his face with both hands against a white background.
A man with spiky blond hair and goggles on his head wears an orange lab coat and black gloves with neon green stripes, holding his face in surprise with his mouth open wide.
A person in an orange lab coat and black goggles holds a large, futuristic toy blaster. They have spiky blond hair and wear yellow gloves, standing against a white background.
A man with spiky blond hair wearing goggles, an orange lab coat, yellow gloves, and a dark shirt holds a large green and gray leaf blower, smiling excitedly at the camera.

Bria Skonberg’s Jingle Bell Swing 

December 6, 2026 | 3PM
Loeb Playhouse

Celebrate the season with Bria Skonberg, a Juno Award–winning vocalist and trumpeter known for her vibrant jazz style. Her holiday show features festive favorites, including her hit cover of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” blending rich vocals, bold trumpet, and a lively mix of classic charm and modern flair.

Support from Bob & Patti Truitt, University Place, and The National Group 
Additional support from Alan & Gail Beck Endowment 

A woman with long blonde hair, wearing a yellow top, stands against a light-colored wall holding a shiny brass trumpet, evoking the lively spirit of Bria Skonberg's Jingle Bell Swing as she gazes to her left with a thoughtful expression.
A woman in a purple sequined dress sits on stairs, leaning against a wall and holding a trumpet. Sunlight comes through a window beside her.
A woman in a long, elegant dark green dress stands against a plain white wall, smiling and holding a brass trumpet by her side.
A woman in a dark green sleeveless dress holds a trumpet and smiles. The background is red with white star accents. Text reads: Bria Skonberg Jingle Bell Swing.

Allison Miller’s Boom Tic Boom

January 22, 2026 | 8PM
Loeb Playhouse

Led by acclaimed drummer and composer Allison Miller, Boom Tic Boom is a critically celebrated jazz ensemble known for razor-sharp precision and diverse, contemporary sonic palette. Along with Miller, the band features an all-star lineup: Myra Melford, Jenny Scheinman, Ben Goldberg, Kirk Knuffke, and Todd Sickafoose. Boom Tic Boom blends classic drummer-led traditions with modern improvisation.

Presented by Drs. Marshall & Berdine Martin and powered by Dr. Sandra Sydnor, Bob & Tammy Loew, and Purdue Bands & Orchestras 

Allison Miller, sporting short hair and a blue shirt, smiles while playing the drum set on stage for Boom Tic Boom, drumsticks in hand and a microphone stand in the foreground.

Clue

January 27, 2027 | 7PM
Elliott Hall of Music

Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

Support from WLFI TV-18 and Purdue Federal Credit Union 

Six actors in colorful costumes, sit at a long dining table on stage, each with dramatic expressions. The backdrop is purple, and a “Clue LIVE ON STAGE!” sign hangs above them.
Photo by Evan Zimmerman
Six people in colorful, vintage costumes sit or stand close together, each holding a different object and a gift box, looking surprised or alarmed—evoking the playful flair of Kinky Boots. Ornate red curtains and a dark wooden wall set the scene.
Photo by Evan Zimmerman
Photo by Evan Zimmerman
Photo by Evan Zimmerman
Photo by Evan Zimmerman
A person in a suit lies flat on their back on a stage floor beneath a large, lit chandelier, with dramatic blue lighting and dark panelled walls in the background.
Photo by Evan Zimmerman
Photo by Evan Zimmerman

Shucked

February 11, 2027 | 7:30PM
Elliott Hall of Music

Shucked is the Tony Award®–winning musical comedy about an unlikely hero, a lovable con man, and an a-maize-ing battle for the heart & soil of Cob County. 

Support from Visit Lafayette/West Lafayette and Bob and Patti Truitt 
Additional support from Guido Family Dentistry 

A bright yellow ear of corn with green husks is set against a yellow background. Bold black text reads shucked, and below in yellow text: The Tony Award-winning musical comedy.
A group of people dressed in country attire lies in a circle on straw, holding hands and corn cobs in the center. The text reads: shucked: The Tony Award-winning musical comedy.

Michael Davidman

February 13, 2027 | 8PM
Loeb Playhouse

Experience pianist Michael Davidman—winner of the 2025 American Piano Awards Christel DeHaan Classical Fellowship. Davidman is celebrated for his expressive depth and technical brilliance. A leading voice among rising American pianists, he brings dynamic interpretations and compelling artistry to the stage in an unforgettable live performance.

Support from Janet Nine, Bob & Patti Truitt, Janet & David Elmore, and Mike & Pam Luenz Classical Music Endowment        
Additional support from Robert B. & Patricia Peyton Truitt Piano Performance Endowment, Gordon & Harriet Coppoc, University Place, and Piano Giving Circle

Michael Davidson, a young person with curly hair, wearing a black suit and a beaded necklace, stands in front of a textured gray and dark brown background, smiling slightly at the camera.
A young man with curly hair in a dark shirt looks at sheet music while holding a pencil. The background features musical notes and the name Michael Davidman in elegant script.

Richard Thomas in Mark Twain Tonight!

February 16, 2027 | 7:30PM
Loeb Playhouse

Emmy-Award® winning Actor and 2025 Theater Hall of Fame Inductee Richard Thomas—star of hit TV shows Ozark and The Waltons and Broadway’s The Balsuters and To Kill a Mockingbird—brings to life “the nation’s one true comic genius” (The New York Times) in Mark Twain Tonight!, written and originally performed by Hal Holbrook. Join the millions who have cheered for the legendary one-man show, bursting with Twain’s “uproariously funny” and “pungently wise” (Time Magazine) humor.

Support from University Place and Friends of Convocations Programming Endowment    

An older man in a suit holds a cigar, with text beside him that reads: Richard Thomas stars in Mark Twain Tonight! by Hal Holbrook on a dark blue background.
An older man in a white suit gestures while speaking on stage next to a podium draped with an American flag, reminiscent of Mark Twain Tonight. The background is dark with blue stage lighting.

Riverdance 30

 February 24, 2027 | 7:30PM
Elliott Hall of Music

Since Riverdance first emerged onto the world stage 30 years ago, its fusion of Irish and international dance and music has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. To celebrate the 30th year milestone, Riverdance returns to Purdue with a spectacular production that rejuvenates the much-loved original show with new innovative choreography and costumes, and state-of-the-art lighting, projection, and motion graphics.  

Support from Lafayette Media Group and Friends of Convocations Programming Endowment 

A row of dancers in sparkling blue and green costumes perform a high-kick routine on a reflective surface under a colorful sunset sky, with the Riverdance 30th Anniversary logo in the top right corner.
Seven dancers perform a synchronized routine on stage with dramatic lighting and fog, dressed in matching teal costumes, in front of a large backdrop featuring an ornate, illuminated face.
A performer in a green costume stands on stage with large, dramatic wings spread wide, surrounded by a burst of golden glitter or smoke against a dark background.
Two dancers in vibrant green and blue costumes perform a dramatic, close pose on stage, appearing to be mid-dance, with theatrical lighting and a dark, nature-themed backdrop behind them.
Riverdance Saturday Matinee 11025
A male dancer in a green shirt and black pants leaps gracefully with arms extended, performing on stage with a scenic backdrop of mountains, water, and a dramatic, colorful sky.
A female dancer in a green costume and black tights performs a high leap on stage, with dramatic lighting highlighting her in midair and musicians playing in the dimly lit background.
Two dancers in green costumes perform an Irish dance on stage, smiling as they step in sync. The background is dark with subtle lighting highlighting the dancers.
A line of dancers in coordinating costumes performs a synchronized high-kick routine on stage, with motion and energy evident in their movements and expressions.
A large group of performers in colorful costumes dances in a straight line on stage, with dramatic lighting and a vivid backdrop displaying a cloudy sky.
Riverdance Saturday Matinee 11025

Marvel Studios’ Black Panther Live in Concert

February 25, 2027 | 7:30PM
Elliott Hall of Music

In 2018, Marvel Studios’ Black Panther quickly became a global sensation and cultural phenomenon, showing a new dimension of what Super Hero films could be. Now you can relive the excitement of T’Challa becoming king and battling Killmonger all while a live orchestra performs Ludwig Göransson’s Oscar® and Grammy®-winning score live to picture.

Local support from Davis Family Endowment, Union Club, and 8Eleven Modern Bistro 
Additional local support from East End Grill and Ripple & Company 

Marvel Studios Black Panther logo in bold blue and gold letters, with "Live In Concert" and "IN CONCERT LIVE TO FILM" below, Disney Concerts and Marvel logos in the corners, all set against a striking black background.
A person dressed in a Black Panther superhero suit with silver accents and a stylized mask stands against a dark, blurred background, channeling the power and presence of the hero as if ready for a Live In Concert appearance.
Marvel Studios’ BLACK PANTHER T’Challa/Black Panther (Chadwick Boseman) Photo: Matt Kennedy ©Marvel Studios 2018

TEDxPurdueU: Unseen

 February 27, 2027 | 2PM
Loeb Playhouse

Every breakthrough has a hidden story. Unseen celebrates the people behind the work, the ideas ahead of their time, and the voices shaping culture, science, and society without recognition. From unsung contributors to quietly radical thinking, it reveals what history overlooked and what we still ignore—showing that the most powerful forces are often the ones we fail to notice.

Support from the Student Fee Advisory Board 

The TEDxPurdueU logo shines on a blue abstract background, with "Unseen" echoed in large, subtle text behind. Below the logo: x = independently organized TED event.

KODO One Earth Tour: Luminance

March 5, 2027 | 8PM
Elliott Hall of Music

KODO: Luminance transforms rhythm into radiant storytelling, blending powerful taiko drumming with global influences. Featuring iconic pieces like O-daiko and Monochrome alongside new works, Kodo celebrates 40+ years of connection, culture, and sound—bringing audiences together in a vibrant, unforgettable performance.

Support from University Place and Visit Lafayette/West Lafayette 

Six traditional KODO Japanese taiko drummers perform on stage with large drums, illuminated by bright luminance behind them, creating dramatic silhouettes and a smoky atmosphere.
A group of performers in traditional Japanese attire play taiko drums on stage. One person stands at the front singing or speaking, while others play drums in the background. The scene is lit dramatically.
A smiling performer in traditional Japanese attire energetically plays large taiko drums on stage, surrounded by other drummers and drums, against an orange backdrop.
A group of Japanese taiko drummers perform energetically on stage, wearing traditional black and white costumes. The central drummer smiles and lifts a drumstick in the air, while others play drums in the background.
Five performers in traditional attire enthusiastically play Japanese taiko drums on stage, each holding drumsticks mid-motion, with energetic expressions and dramatic lighting highlighting the scene. From KODO: Luminance

The Wiz

April 28, 2027 | 7PM
Elliott Hall of Music

 
This groundbreaking twist on The Wizard of Oz changed the face of Broadway—from its iconic score packed with soul, gospel, rock, and 70s funk to its stirring tale of Dorothy’s journey to find her place in a contemporary world.  

Everybody rejoice—this dynamite infusion of ballet, jazz, and modern pop brings a whole new groove to easing on down the road. 

Support from Zebra Landscaping and Westminster Village 

The words THE WIZ appear in large, bold, gold letters on a black background, with a bright light shining through the letter I in WIZ.