McCallum Theatre adds more than a dozen new shows

A host of superstars, emerging artists and desert favorites have been added to the roster of McCallum Theatre’s 2014-2015 season, with Willie Nelson, Ray LaMontagne, Jackie Evancho, Jay Leno, Don McLean and Linda Eder leading the list.

“We are pleased that several terrific shows became available after our subscription brochure went to press in early April,” said Mitch Gershenfeld, President & CEO of the McCallum. “We are excited to add these outstanding artists to what is already an exciting and diverse season of world-class entertainment at the McCallum.”

The complete list of newly added shows includes:

KPLM “The Big 106” Welcomes Lee Brice: Mon, October 20, 8pm $85/75/45/35
Lee Brice is a man whose time has come. On his stunning sophomore album, Hard 2 Love, the four-time Academy of Country Music nominee demonstrates a new maturity and patience, both in his songwriting and vocals.
Ray LaMontagne: Tue, October 21, 8pm $95/75/65/45
Born in New Hampshire, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Ray LaMontagne came to music in one fell swoop: while working in a shoe factory in his twenties, he woke up to the Stephen Stills song “Tree Top Flyer” on the radio and had an epiphany this was his life’s calling. Five years later, in 2004, his debut album, Trouble, was released on RCA to much acclaim, including numerous notable cover versions of its title track. LaMontagne has built a devoted following ever since, over the course of three more studio albums. His fifth studio album, Supernova, was released in May.
All Coachella Valley High School Honor Band: Sun, November 2, 4pm $10 all seats $5 for High School Music Students with voucher. The All Coachella Valley High School Honor Band features exceptional musicians from high school instrumental music programs throughout the Coachella Valley. Under the direction of inaugural Conductor Dr. Allan McMurray, the Honor Band will perform a concert of stunning artistry and refined music making featuring traditional and modern wind band literature.
Vince Gill and The Time Jumpers: Mon, November 10, 8pm $85/75/45/35
One of the most popular singers in modern country music, Vince Gill has a pop sensibility, top-notch songwriting and world-class guitar playing wrapped in a warm tenor and a quick and easy wit. After a solo set by Vince Gill, he’ll be joined by The Time Jumpers, an assemblage of the top Nashville studio players, including Dawn and Kenny Sears, Joe Spivey and “Ranger Doug” Green (of Riders in the Sky). It’s an evening of great Country and incredible Bluegrass music.
Last Comic Standing Live Tour: Sun, November 23, 7pm $65/45/35/25
If you love to laugh and are a fan of stand-up comedy routines, then you won’t want to miss Last Comic Standing Live Tour at the McCallum! This tour features the funniest comedians from NBC’s Emmy-nominated laugh-fest Last Comic Standing, so if you liked the show on TV, you will love these comedians LIVE!
Fitz’s Jazz Caf at the McCallum Co-presented by KJJZ’s Jim “Fitz” Fitzgerald A Peter White Christmas Featuring Rick Braun and Mindi Abair: Fri, December 5, 8pm $75/55/45/25
Peter White leads an all-star lineup featuring Rick Braun and Mindi Abair, performing dazzling arrangements of holiday favorites. A stellar performer and guitar master, White has kept smooth jazz fans worldwide enthralled by his spirited melodies, soulful grooves and inviting, instantly recognizable acoustic guitar tone. Always finding unique ways to bring his modern sensibilities to cherished pop classics, his seasonal renditions are sure to captivate.
Willie Nelson & Family: Wed, January 7, 8pm $100/85/75/65
Legendary Willie Nelson, an American country singer-songwriter, author, poet, actor and activist, returns to the McCallum stage! Presented through the generosity of Harold Matzner.
Jackie Evancho: Fri, January 16, 8pm $125/95/75/55
Since appearing on “America’s Got Talent” in 2010 at age 10, Pittsburgh, PA native Jackie Evancho has released five albums, including a platinum and gold album and three Billboard 200 top 10 debuts. She has astonished audiences with her perfect, beautiful, soprano voice and her presence, poise and charm. Miss Evancho became the youngest person ever to give a solo concert at Lincoln Center, has made two solo PBS specials for the television series Great Performances, and appeared in the 2013 Robert Redford film The Company You Keep. Presented through the generosity of JoAnn McGrath.
Jay Leno: Sat, January 24, 8pm $95/85/75/55
Jay Leno has captivated living rooms across the world for over 20 years with charisma, comedy and charm as host of late night television’s top-rated, “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” Since passing the torch, he’s been busy taking his new, hilarious act on the road for this exclusive tour. See Jay do what he does best and laugh it up for this special night with one of the world’s leading entertainers.
ABBA MANIA: Mon, March 2, 8pm $65/45/35/25
ABBA MANIA is now accepted as the world’s number one touring ABBA production. Featuring a special concert presentation, which celebrates the music of ABBA music in a respectful and enjoyable way, reviving special memories of when ABBA ruled the airwaves. Join in and enjoy all of your favorite songs including:”Mamma Mia,” “Voulez Vous,” “Dancing Queen,” “Winner Takes It All,” “Super Trouper” and many more.
Fitz’s Jazz Caf at the McCallum Co-presented by KJJZ’s Jim “Fitz” Fitzgerald Euge Groove with Special Guest Star Elliott Yamin Tue, March 3, 8pm $65/45/35/25
Sax man Euge Groove has performed with Tina Turner, Joe Cocker and Tower of Power, and his albums have topped the Contemporary Jazz charts. Soulful singer Elliott Yamin placed third on American Idol and his Platinum-selling single “Wait for You” was a Top 10 hit. Together, they equal an amazing night of music.
Don McLean Tue, March 17, 8pm $65/55/45/25
Don McLean is one of America’s most enduring singer-songwriters and is forever associated with his classic hits “American Pie” and “Vincent (Starry Starry Night).” Since first hitting the charts in 1971, Don has amassed over 40 gold and platinum records world-wide and, in 2004, was inducted into the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame.
Linda Eder: Wed, March 25, 8pm $85/65/45/35
Broadway diva and star of the smash hit musical Jekyll and Hyde returns to the McCallum. Don’t miss the highly anticipated return of Linda Eder, the phenomenal talent who has sold out performances at Carnegie Hall and on the Broadway stage!

“Subscription sales for the 2014-2015 were very strong right out of the box,” said Gershenfeld, “and several shows are well on their way to selling out. We encourage everyone to plan ahead and purchase their tickets early to avoid disappointment. Single tickets to ALL McCallum presentations go on sale on Tuesday, September 16th at 8:00am.”

Tickets may be purchased at the McCallum Theatre Box Office, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, or by calling (760) 340-ARTS. Tickets may also be purchased at the Theatre’s secure website at www.mccallumtheatre.com.

McCallum Theatre accepts payments by cash, personal check, VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. Box Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Other highlights of the 2014-2015 McCallum season include the Broadway Series (Anything Goes, Guys and Dolls, Nice Work If You Can Get It and Dame Edna and Barry Humphries’ The Final Farewell Tour); the second annual Palm Desert International Dance Festival; the 16th anniversary of Fitz’s Jazz Caf at the McCallum (including concerts by Patti Austin, Vanessa Williams, Jesse Cook, Storm Large, Gino Vannelli, Steve Tyrell, George Benson and Chris Botti); and a host of other new-to-the-McCallum and returning favorites including: Cheyenne Jackson, Neil Sedaka, John Waters, The Peking Acrobats, Tango Buenos Aires, Itzhak Perlman, Alberta Ballet, Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain, Michael Feinstein, Bob Newhart, Vienna Boys Choir, Susan Graham, Don Williams, 2Cellos, Johnny Mathis, Count Basie Orchestra, Lang Lang and many more.