The Cincinnati Pops Announce 2019-20 Season; Renee Elise Goldsberry and More

The Cincinnati Pops Orchestra and Conductor John Morris Russell announce the details of the Pops' 2019-20 season at Music Hall, presented by PNC. The season features nine subscription programs, additional concerts, and the Lollipops Family Series. Highlights of the new season include three performances in September with Rene?e Elise Goldsberry, winner of the Best Featured Actress Tony Award for her portrayal of Angelica Schuyler in the smash hit musical, Hamilton. Other Pops debuts include soul singer Ledisi, Grammy-winning pianist and songwriter Bruce Hornsby, as well as jazz piano sensation Marcus Roberts with a unique take on Gershwin's iconic Rhapsody in Blue. Legendary band leader Paul Shaffer of Late Show with David Letterman fame also makes his Pops debut, joining Mr. Russell for concerts celebrating Cincinnati's musical legacy with tributes to King Records, Herzog Studios and more.

"America's Wonders in 3D" combines dramatic 3D imagery from the National Parks set to a live orchestral soundtrack for three performances in October. The Pops puts a new spin on music of the 1980's in a special one-night-only concert in November, "Totally 80s," led by guest conductor Stuart Chafetz, and the perennial "Holiday Pops" concerts return in December with five performances led by Mr. Russell and featuring the return of Broadway sensation Megan Hilty.

The season closes with Mr. Russell conducting "Dreamworks Animation in Concert," which features music and animation from such popular films as Shrek, How to Train Your Dragon, Kung Fu Panda, Madagascar, The Prince of Egypt and more.

"The new Pops season continues our journey and celebration of the American musical experience," said Mr. Russell. "Through the rich tapestry of orchestra color and texture, our Orchestra will highlight music from film and stage, and collaborate with an array of remarkable performers whose unique styles, and artistry weave together the story of American music making. We look forward to sharing it all with both ardent fans and our newest friends from throughout our community-the Pops is where all Cincinnati meets."

Off subscription, the Pops performs Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back September 6, 7 and 8 at Music Hall, and as previously announced, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of AzkabanTM at Music Hall January 3, 4 and 5, 2020.

Pianist and crooner Tony DeSare and singer Capathia Jenkins both return to the Pops to pay homage to Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald on New Year's Eve with returning guest conductor Damon Gupton.

The Lollipops Family Concert series features Mr. Russell conducting The Snowman on December 7 at Music Hall. Prokofiev's popular Peter and the Wolf will be featured on the March 28, 2020, concert. The Lollipops Family series is presented by United Dairy Farmers and Homemade Brand Ice Cream and receives additional support from the Cincinnati Symphony Club.

Mr. Russell and the Pops will also perform "Red, White and Boom" on the Fourth of July at Riverbend Music Center with Rozzi's Famous Fireworks. More details will be announced later.

Season tickets (subscriptions) are available now, online or through the Music Hall Box Office 513.381.3300. Subscribers save up to 20 percent off regular ticket prices and get priority seating and unlimited ticket exchanges, among other benefits.

Single tickets for the 19-20 season go on sale to the general public July 30. For most Pops concerts, single tickets start at $25 for adults and $20 for children. Pops Family Concerts, which include "America's Wonders in 3D," "Holiday Pops" and "Dreamworks Animation in Concert," are $15 for children, courtesy of Graeter's Ice Cream.

Photo Credit: Walter McBride / WM Photos