Celebrate a Decade of Artistry: 7 Must‑See Events at AT&T Performing Arts Center’s 10‑Year Anniversary
For a decade, the AT&T Performing Arts Center (PAC) has stood as a cornerstone of Dallas’s Arts District, opening its doors in October 2009 and consistently delivering world‑class performances. This anniversary season showcases an exceptional roster of comedians, celebrities, Broadway stars, opera singers, and dancers.
PAC houses the Winspear Opera House, Wyly Theatre, and Strauss Square, complemented by the scenic Sammons Park for outdoor concerts and community gatherings. Resident companies span a diverse artistic spectrum, including Anita N. Martinez Ballet Folklorico, Dallas Black Dance Theatre, Dallas Opera, Dallas Theater Center, and Texas Ballet Theater.
Here are just a few of the events the PAC is offering for this special year in its history:
1. Aug. 22-25: “Charlie & the Chocolate Factory.” From August 22–25, the Winspear Opera House presents a musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic, ‘Charlie & the Chocolate Factory.’ Audiences will enjoy live performances of beloved songs like ‘I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,’ while a pre‑show buffet by Wolfgang Puck Catering awaits at the Skyline Terrace.
2. Sept.17: “Anka Sings Sinatra: His Songs, My Songs, My Way.” On September 17, Canadian legend Paul Anka, a close associate of Frank Sinatra, delivers a one‑night tribute at the Winspear. Expect fresh takes on Sinatra classics.
3. Sept.19: Jeff Goldblum & the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra. September 19 hosts Jeff Goldblum and the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra in Strauss Square. The actor‑musician will showcase his jazz piano and vocal talents during an intimate outdoor concert.
4. Sept. 21: “Now You See Them, Soon You Won’t” with Steve Martin and Martin Short. September 21 features comedy duo Steve Martin and Martin Short in CitySquare’s ‘A Night to Remember.’ Their recent Netflix special will set the tone for an evening of sketches and one‑liners.
5. Oct. 25-26: “BODYTRAFFIC.” October 25–26, the Moody Performance Hall hosts BODYTRAFFIC, a flagship show of TITAS/DANCE UNBOUND 2019‑20. The company’s choreography pushes the boundaries of contemporary dance.
6. Oct. 26: “Piff the Magic Dragon.” On October 26, Piff the Magic Dragon performs at the Wyly Theatre, blending comedy and magic from his acclaimed Vegas residency.
7. Nov. 22-24: “Once.” November 22–24, the Winspear presents ‘Once,’ the Tony‑award‑winning stage adaptation of the indie film. Audiences will be drawn into a moving love story through powerful ballads.
Additional summer and fall offerings feature Lyle Lovett and his Large Band, saxophonist Kenny G, and the 2019‑2020 Broadway season with productions like ‘The Color Purple,’ ‘An American in Paris,’ and ‘The SpongeBob Musical.’
The center’s enduring success is rooted in generous philanthropy from families such as the Winspear, Wyly, and Hamon, along with the Sammons Corporation. Yet its vitality also stems from the active participation of members and patrons. Beyond its dynamic season, PAC enriches the Dallas community by delivering arts‑education initiatives through the Open Stages program and offering complimentary tickets to families in need.
Header photo credit: Carter Rose



