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NACOGDOCHES, Texas (KETK) — As students prepare to head back to Stephen F. Austin State University for the fall, the college announced its 2025-2026 University Series lineup filled with nationally acclaimed artists.

SFA revealed on Friday that its University Series lineup will return once again, with all performances scheduled at 7:30 p.m. in Turner Auditorium at Griffith Fine Arts Building. This season, themed ‘Season to Share,’ will bring the “Nacogdoches campus and surrounding communities together through the arts with high-quality performances spanning from blues and Celtic music to stand-up comedy and holiday traditions.”

“The University Series is something we are proud to offer,” Dean of the Micky Elliott College of Fine Arts Dr. Gary Wurtz said. “These performances represent a range of artistic disciplines, and we’re grateful to have the opportunity to bring them to Nacogdoches each year. It’s a privilege to provide access to this level of entertainment without our audiences having to travel far from home.” 

University Series lineup

Oct. 24: Marshall Charloff and Purple xPeRIeNCE

Known for hosting the most authentic celebration of Prince in the world, this group will start off the University Series on Oct. 24. “The Minneapolis-based group was created by Prince’s longtime collaborator Dr. Fink and front man Charloff and has toured globally since 2011, bringing the iconic sound, style and energy of Prince to audiences around the world,” SFA said. “The performance is presented in part by Etech.”

Nov. 18: Nutcracker! Christmas Ballet

Celebrating their 33rd year, “Nutcracker! Christmas Ballet” will be performing in more than 100 cities across North America, including Nacogdoches. The show will feature “world-class dancers, Broadway-caliber sets and costumes, and choreography blending ballet, puppetry and acrobatics.”

Tickets for the performance will go on sale Sept. 2, and season tickets will be available Aug. 15 for people who want to secure their preferred seating for each show. “Reserved seating for University Series performances ranges from $25 to $35, with discounts available for seniors, students and children,” SFA said. “Reserved seating for the encore event ranges from $45 to $100 based on section. Discounts do not apply to encore events.”

To purchase tickets, people can visit the SFA box office webpage or call 936-468-6407.

Dec. 9: Eileen Ivers Joyful Christmas

Grammy Award-winning fiddler Eileen Ivers will display her Irish and American roots at this performance, getting the Nacogdoches community in the Christmas spirit. “This festive performance blends traditional Wren Day songs, poems and lively roots music with Ivers’ signature warmth and artistry, creating a spirited celebration of the holiday season,” the university explained.

Jan. 30, 2026: James P. Connolley

The stand-up comic and radio/TV host featured on “America’s Got Talent,” Comedy Central, HBO and Netflix’s “Larry Charles: Dangerous World of Comedy” will be making a stop in Nacogdoches. The community will be able to enjoy James P. Connolley’s “sharp wit and clean humor,” which is loved by audiences nationwide.

Feb. 27, 2026: Sue Foley

The Grammy Award-nominated and five-time consecutive Blues Music Award winner, Sue Foley will be stopping by Nacogdoches to bring her “fiery Texas blues style and refined acoustic performances.”

East Texans can learn more about SFA events and ticket information by visiting the university’s Fine Arts Box Office webpage.

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