Performing Arts Announces Spectacular Fall 2026 Lineup

From jazz to holiday favorites, the Butte College Performing Arts Department is bringing a diverse lineup of performances to the Black Box Theatre this fall.

The Fall 2026 performing arts season features more than a dozen concerts and theatrical performances showcasing the creativity and talent of Butte College students, faculty and guest artists. This season also includes opportunities to hear emerging musicians from the North State.

“This season really highlights the incredible range of talent we have at Butte College,” said Ryan Heimlich, chair of the Butte College Performing Arts Department. “Our students are performing everything from jazz, classical and contemporary music to theatre and popular music, and they’re doing it at a remarkably high level. We’re excited to share their hard work and creativity with our community.”

The season begins Wednesday, Oct. 7, with the Fall 2026 Performing Arts Faculty Recital at 12:30 p.m. The free performance features Butte College music and theatre faculty, along with special guest artist Dr. Bradley Martin of CSU, Chico on piano.

The lineup continues with the Fall 2026 Pop Band Show on Oct. 22, featuring three student pop bands performing covers, original songs and more. On Oct. 28, the Butte College Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combos present Swing, Soul, Samba & Beyond, an evening exploring everything from swing and soul jazz to Brazilian grooves and contemporary big band music, with a special tribute to Dolly Parton and an exciting drum battle.

Theatre takes center stage Oct. 29 with Heroes & Villains, featuring Butte College acting students bringing iconic heroes and villains to life in a free performance.

In November, audiences can experience the Symphonic Band Concert: Intersections — Where Music, Culture & Perspective Meet on Nov. 5, followed by Conversations: Percussion & Chamber Ensemble Concert on Nov. 10 and Strings & Stories, featuring the Butte College choir and guitar ensemble, on Nov. 12.

The department will also take its music out into the community with Friday Night Jazz at Discovery Bar & Kitchen in Chico on Nov. 13. The free event features Butte College student jazz combos and faculty guests, followed by an open jam session for musicians who want to join in.

The fall theatre season continues in December with William Shakespeare’s beloved comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by Erin Horst. Performances are scheduled for Dec. 3–5 and will bring magic, romance, mistaken identities and plenty of comedy to the Black Box Theatre.

The season concludes with two festive performances. A Kaleidoscope Holiday on Dec. 10 brings together Butte College ensembles, student-led groups, chamber groups and soloists for a fast-moving celebration featuring seasonal favorites, jazz, classical, contemporary and popular music. And on Sunday, Dec. 13, at 2 p.m., the Butte Winds Jazz Ensemble takes the stage with an all-star lineup of local music educators and professional musicians. The concert features swinging holiday favorites, featured soloists and big band jazz, highlighted by the Glenn Miller Orchestra’s take on Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite. It’s a festive afternoon of holiday music with a big band twist.

The season closes Dec. 16 with the Fall 2026 youth band & Orchestra Concert, featuring the North Valley Youth Wind Symphony and North Valley Youth Orchestra.

“Performing arts are such an important part of the college experience,” Heimlich said. “These performances give our students a chance to develop their skills, collaborate with one another and perform for a live audience. We invite everyone to come out, support our students and experience the energy they bring to the stage.”

Tickets for all ticketed performances are $10 for general admission and $5 for students, unless otherwise noted. Several performances are free. For the complete fall 2026 performing arts schedule and tickets, visit butte.edu/music.