Mississippi State University Riley Center Announces 2023 Spring/Summer Season

MERIDIAN, Miss. (January 17, 2023) – The Mississippi State University Riley Center for Education and Performing Arts unveils a 2023 Spring/Summer Performing Arts Series of musical superstars, theater and comedy featuring one of Mississippi’s own.

The always innovative Aquila Theatre presents Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice on February 9, featuring African American actors in leading roles. As a bonus, area schoolchildren can attend an additional daytime performance just for them.

On March 9, comeback queen and country music troubadour Tanya Tucker performs, followed by a March 18 performance by The Kingdom Choir, the international gospel group made famous at Prince Harry and Meghan’s royal wedding for their mesmerizing rendition of Stand By Me.

Mississippi’s own multitalented comedian and actress Tig Notaro will entertain audiences with her relatable stand-up on April 13. The Beach Boys take the stage May 16, delivering nothing but good vibrations as they perform their catalog of hits. Just ahead of the Fourth of July holiday, Lee Greenwood is sure to get everyone in a patriotic mood when he performs on June 23.

Closing out the season on July 27, the King of Motown, Smokey Robinson, will leave audiences swooning with his ethereal voice. 

“From theater and comedy to a variety of musical acts, we aim to provide something for a range of audiences,” said Dr. Terry Dale Cruse, Associate Vice President and head of Mississippi State University-Meridian Campus. “We are pleased to attract patrons from the local community as well as the rest of the state and region for quality arts and entertainment – plus the restaurants, shops and other attractions that are thriving today in historic downtown Meridian, including the new Threefoot Hotel.”

Season subscriptions to the MSU Riley Center’s 2023 Spring/Summer Performing Arts Series are on sale now, starting at $285 and going up to $575 per person for premium seats.

Special mini-packs are also available, allowing patrons to purchase a bundle of three predetermined shows and claim highly sought-after seats ahead of individual ticket buyers. Ranging from $80 to $285 per person, mini-packs go on sale January 25.

Ticket prices to individual shows vary, starting at $20 and going up to $165 per ticket based on performance and seat selection. Ticket sales to individual shows begin on February 6.

All shows (except the school performance of Pride and Prejudice) start at 7:30 p.m. The MSU Riley Center is at 2200 Fifth Street in downtown Meridian.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.msurileycenter.com or call 601.696.2200.

The MSU Riley Center thanks The Riley Foundation, The Phil Hardin Foundation, Mississippi State University and Friends of the Lady members. Their continued support helps make these shows possible.

MSU Riley Center 2023 Spring/Summer Performing Arts Series

Season subscriptions are on sale now. Mini-packs go on sale January 25. All shows are on sale by February 6.

Aquila Theatre

Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice

Thursday, February 9 | 7:30 p.m.  – This show will go on sale January 25 to the general public.

A 10 a.m. school show is also offered with discounted admission for students, teachers and chaperones only. Online registration is open now and required in advance.

Tickets: $20 adult, $10 student
 

Tanya Tucker

Thursday, March 9 | 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: $35 to $95
 

The Kingdom Choir

Saturday, March 18 | 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: $20 to $60
 

Tig Notaro 

Thursday, April 13 | 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: $25 to $75
 

The Beach Boys

Tuesday, May 16 | 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: $75 to $125
 

Lee Greenwood

Friday, June 23 | 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: $25 to $65
 

An Evening with Smokey Robinson

Thursday, July 27 | 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: $100 to $165
 

Mini Packs – On Sale January 25

Maroon Pack

Pride and Prejudice, February 9

The Kingdom Choir, March 18

Smokey Robinson, July 27

Tickets from $140 to $245 per person

Bulldog Pack

Pride and Prejudice, February 9

Tanya Tucker, March 9

Tig Notaro, April 13

Tickets from $80 to $190 per person

Cowbell Pack

Tanya Tucker, March 9

The Beach Boys, May 16

Lee Greenwood, June 23

Tickets from $135 to $285 per person

For tickets and more info, visit www.msurileycenter.com or call 601.696.2200.