Idina Menzel, Capathia Jenkins, Hugh Panaro and More Set for Philly Pops 2026/2027 Season
Music director Chris Dragon leads the orchestra at Marian Anderson Hall at the Kimmel Center.
The Philly Pops has revealed its 2026/2027 concert season led by Music Director Chris Dragon and held in Marian Anderson Hall at the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia. In addition, the orchestra is launching their first subscription series. Subscribers have the chance to order tickets, select seats and be informed early about all upcoming performances.
The season of concerts in the Kimmel Center brings back popular Philly Pops guest artists and music that audiences crave. It begins on October 24 at 3 p.m. with Broadway à la Nero, a celebration of the Broadway sound through the musical lens of Grammy award-winning pianist and Philly Pops Emeritus Music Director, Peter Nero. The concert features Philly's own Broadway star Hugh Panaro, pianist Charlie Albright, the Philly Pops Chorus with Music Director Chris Dragon.
The holiday season returns in grand fashion with A Philly Holiday Spectacular, presented December 11, 12 and 13. A beloved Philadelphia tradition, this year's production, conducted by Chris Dragon, features three-time Grammy nominated Ryan Shaw and singer/songwriter Morgan James, along with the Philly Pops Chorus, St. Thomas Gospel Choir, and the Philadelphia Boys Choir.
The subscription series concludes on April 3, 2027 at 3 p.m. with ICON, a program celebrating songs that have shaped decades and generations, the music of Whitney Houston, Diana Ross, Prince, Elvis and many more. Guest conductor is Lucas Waldin, and the beloved Capathia Jenkins and Ryan Shaw are featured vocalists.
The list of concerts taking place throughout the year where tickets are ordered individually through the Philly Pops website are:
June 6 at 8 p.m.
St. Vincent Live with the Philly Pops - This six-time Grammy winner brings her tour to Philadelphia at the Met.
July 3 at 7 p.m.
Idina Menzel with the Philly Pops conducted by Music Director Chris Dragon during Wawa Welcome America's Pops on Independence concert on Independence Mall. Tickets are free – bring a lawn chair or blanket.
August 21 at 8 p.m.
The Philly Pops with Gregory Alan Isakov, an evening blending indie folk and symphonic sound conducted by Music Director Chris Dragon at the Highmark Mann Center.
August 27 at 8 p.m.
Labrinth and the Philly Pops conducted by Jonathan Taylor Rush at the Highmark Mann Center.
August 28 at 8 p.m.
A Jerry Garcia Symphonic Celebration with the Philly Pops conducted by Music Director Chris Dragon at the Highmark Mann Center.
September 18 at 8 p.m.
Boyz II Men with the Philly Pops conducted by Anthony Parnther at the Highmark Mann Center, bringing one of Philadelphia's most beloved R&B groups together with the orchestra for what promises to be a major hometown event.
September 25 at 7 p.m.
Leslie Odom, Jr. with the Philly Pops at Finneran Pavilion in Villanova, PA, under the direction of Music Director Chris Dragon.
Beyond these major performances, the Philly Pops will continue its commitment to community access with several Artcinia concerts in Philadelphia neighborhoods, a performance at Immaculata University, and additional free appearances at locations including Headhouse Square on South Street, Eakins Oval, Dilworth Park, the Kimmel Arts Festival, and an Eagles tailgate event. These performances are designed to reduce barriers to entry and bring live orchestral music directly into the everyday life of the city.
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