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Segerstrom Center for the Arts Marks 40 Years with Expanded Latino Arts Initiative and Names Arturo O’Farrill Inaugural Artist-in-Residence
As it celebrates its 40th anniversary, Segerstrom Center for the Arts is launching an exciting new chapter with an expanded commitment to Hispanic and Latino arts and culture. The initiative is anchored by the appointment of multi-GRAMMY Award–winning composer and bandleader Arturo O’Farrill as the Center’s first Artist-in-Residence, alongside the debut of ¡VIVA! The Spenuzza Series, honoring 257 years of California’s Hispanic heritage.
Widely recognized as one of the most influential voices in Afro Latin jazz today, O’Farrill’s work bridges classical composition, jazz improvisation, and Afro Cuban and pan Latin‑ musical traditions, embodying the spirit of innovation and cultural dialogue at the heart of the Center’s expanded programming.
Spanning music, dance, theater, jazz, and family programming, the initiative will bring together internationally acclaimed artists, community collaborations, and student experiences that celebrate the richness and global influence of Latino cultural traditions. Throughout the 2026–27 season, O’Farrill’s residency will feature performances, new works, and educational programs designed to inspire audiences of all ages.
“We are proud to deepen Segerstrom Center’s commitment to celebrating the remarkable artistic traditions and cultural contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. As we celebrate our 40th anniversary and honor the extraordinary legacy built by Henry Segerstrom, we are equally focused on the future, embracing bold artistic voices and expanding the ways we engage the diverse communities that call Orange County home. Initiatives like ¡VIVA! The Spenuzza Series, made possible through the generous support of the Spenuzza Family, help us bring a wide range of Hispanic and Latino artists and traditions to our stages and classrooms. Welcoming Arturo O’Farrill as our inaugural Artist in Residence is another exciting part of this work, and his artistry and leadership will help deepen the cultural dialogue at the heart of this growing initiative.” Casey Reitz, President and CEO of Segerstrom Center for the Arts.
Together, these efforts create a vibrant platform for Hispanic and Latino voices—deepening community connections and shaping the future of arts in Orange County.
2026–27 Artist in Residence and ¡VIVA! The Spenuzza Programming
- Arturo O’Farrill with the Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra*†September 19, 2026 | Segerstrom Concert Hall | Jazz Series
- SUGAR SKULL! †September 19–20 | Samueli Theater |Family Series
- ARTURO O’FARRILL: COPACABANA NIGHTS*† Friday, February 19, 2027 | Samueli Theater |Jazz Series Add On
- Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández † February 21, 2027 | Segerstrom Hall |Dance Series Add On
- Lucia
March 12, 2027 | Samueli | Jazz Series
- Arcis Saxophone Quartet†March 14, 2027 | Samueli Theater | Chamber Music Series
- Ballet Hispánico: DON Q†
March 26, 2027 | Segerstrom Hall |Dance Series Add On
- Buena Vista Social Club†
March 29 — April 11, 2027| Segerstrom Hall | Broadway Series
- Alfredo Rodriguez band, featuring Pedrito Martinez
April 24, 2027 | Samueli | Jazz Series
- Rumba para Monk Revisited* †
May 7, 2027 | Samueli Theater | Jazz Series
- New Commission: Lowrider Symphony w/ Pacific Symphony*
- July 9, 2027 | Argyros Plaza | Summer Sounds
- WHEN CULTURES COLLIDE*
April 8 – 9, 2027 at 9:30am and 11:30am (both days) | Samueli | Bus In
- Master Class: THE ART OF COMPOSITION*
- Studio D Guest Artist*
*A part of the Artist in Residency Program
†A part of ¡VIVA! The Spenuzza Series
More About Arturo O’ Farrill
Mexican American pianist, composer, and bandleader Arturo O’Farrill is a towering figure in contemporary music, renowned for his genre-defying virtuosity, leadership, and unwavering commitment to social justice through music. As founder and artistic director of both the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra (ALJO) and Belongó (formerly known as the Afro Latin Jazz Alliance), O’Farrill plays a pivotal role in nurturing cultural dialogue through the transformative power of music.
O’Farrill is a 6-time GRAMMY and 2-time Latin GRAMMY winner. “One of our greatest living pianists” (Downbeat), he bridges the gap between Latin rhythms, modern jazz, and contemporary composition, pushing boundaries while maintaining a profound connection to his roots. O’Farrill has released nearly 25 albums as a solo artist, collaborator, and with ALJO. His compositions have been performed by Dr. Cornel West, pianist Lara Downes, and the San Francisco Ballet, and he has earned commissions from Jazz at Lincoln Center and The Philadelphia Music Project among others. Recently named the Bill Evans Fellow at the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music, he has been appointed to key positions and residencies, and has collaborated with Dizzy Gillespie, Harry Belafonte, Lester Bowie, Tito Puente, Wynton Marsalis, Carla Bley, his father Chico O’Farrill, and more.
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Segerstrom Center for the Arts®
SCFTA is an innovative nonprofit organization that champions artistic excellence and fosters a vibrant, inclusive community in Orange County through the transformative power of live performance. As the region’s leading cultural hub, the Center offers a diverse array of programming, featuring international dance companies, Broadway national tours, jazz and cabaret musicians, and an engaging speaker series. Its Education and Community Engagement departments present family-friendly events on the picturesque Julianne and George Argyros Plaza, including outdoor movie screenings, concerts, and lively festivals.
With six stunning venues nestled within a beautiful multi-disciplinary campus, the Center is home to the region’s most esteemed performing arts organizations, including the Pacific Symphony, Philharmonic Society of Orange County and Pacific Chorale as well as two independently acclaimed organizations: Tony Award®-winning South Coast Repertory and Orange County Museum of Art. Segerstrom Center is also home to the American Ballet Theatre William J. Gillespie School and Studio D: Arts School for All Abilities.
The Center continues to uphold the vision of its founder, Henry Segerstrom, remaining true to its mission as the premier arts in Orange County since its inception in 1986 as Orange County Performing Arts Center®.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts applauds its corporate partner Kaiser Permanente, Official Health and Wellness P Partner, and recognizes the Spenuzza Velastegui Family Foundation as the Presenting Underwriter supporting the ¡VIVA! The Spenuzza Series. Celebrating 257 Years of California’s Hispanic Heritage.
The information provided is accurate at the time of printing but is subject to change. Segerstrom Center for the Arts is a public, nonprofit organization. “Segerstrom Center for the Arts” and “SCFTA” are registered trademarks.
