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MARIETTA -- Marietta College's Esbenshade Series will open its 46th season Oct. 15, bringing dance, music and a lecture on music history to the community through March.
The 2026-27 season features five events at Peoples Bank Theatre and the college's Alma McDonough Auditorium. All events begin at 7 p.m.
"I'm excited to say we have another eclectic mix of artists for our 46th season," said Todd Burge, the series' director. "Some are true legends, recognized around the world; all are masters of their craft."
Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance will open the season at Peoples Bank Theatre on Oct. 15. Founded by Alvin Ailey in 1974, the company features early-career dancers and emerging choreographers. It is led by artistic director Francesca Harper.
Musician, writer and historian Elijah Wald will speak Nov. 19 at Alma McDonough Auditorium about music history and the challenges of documenting it.
Wald, a 2002 Grammy Award winner, has written extensively about American music. His book "The Mayor of MacDougal Street" helped inspire the Coen brothers' film "Inside Llewyn Davis," while "Dylan Goes Electric!" became the basis for "A Complete Unknown." His most recent book, "Jelly Roll Blues: Censored Songs and Hidden Histories," examines overlooked histories of early blues and jazz.
The Richard Thompson Band will perform Jan. 28, 2027, at Peoples Bank Theatre. Thompson co-founded British folk-rock band Fairport Convention as a teenager in the 1960s before pursuing a solo career. Artists including Bonnie Raitt, Robert Plant, Elvis Costello and R.E.M. have recorded his songs.
Indie duo The Army, The Navy will perform Feb. 11 at Peoples Bank Theatre. Maia Ciambriello and Sasha Goldberg make up the group, which released two EPs in 2024. Its debut album, "Fake Brave Life," explores vulnerability, heartbreak and the challenges of sharing creative work.
Singer-songwriter and guitarist Ellis Paul will close the season March 21 at Peoples Bank Theatre. His songs explore hope, love and loss, and his music has appeared in films including "Me, Myself & Irene," "Shallow Hal" and "Hall Pass."
More information about the series is available at marietta.edu/esbenshade-series.