The Chan Centre Announces the First Wave of Events for its Landmark 2026–2027 Season

The Chan Centre for the Performing Arts announces the first wave of programming for its 2026–2027 season, marking the venue’s 29th year with one of the most ambitious and expansive lineups in its history. Spanning globally celebrated musicians, ground breaking literary voices, and a new series with National Geographic Live, this initial season announcement reflects the Chan Centre’s continued commitment to presenting artists and thinkers who inspire curiosity, connection, and wonder. Additional events and performances will be announced throughout the season.

This year’s lineup welcomes internationally acclaimed musicians including TIME and Forbes’ Most Influential singer Angélique Kidjo, jazz masters Branford Marsalis and Dianne Reeves, and UK band Palace, alongside rising musical voices such as pianist-composers Jean-Michel Blais, Elijah Fox, and violin prodigy Christian Li. Two nights are dedicated to film and film music. The Chan, in co-presentation with VIFF Live, presents the North American Premiere of Jóhann Jóhannsson’s Cinematic Suites, a full orchestral and immersive cinematic celebration of the late composer’s brilliant film score work for five renowned films, including Denis Villeneuve’s acclaimed films Sicario, Arrival, and Prisoners. The Chan Centre and Infidels Jazz will also present the Ghibli Jazz Orchestra, an 18-piece local ensemble that celebrates the music of Joe Hisaishi and the world of Ghibli animation.

Pachinko and Free Food for Millionaires author Min Jin Lee will make her literary Vancouver debut at the Chan Centre to introduce her newest novel, American Hagwon, and Naomi Klein and Astra Taylor will discuss their co-authored book, End Times Fascism, in an event co-presented with the UBC Centre for Climate Justice and Knopf Canada. Beloved culture critic Fran Lebowitz and PEN/Audible Literary Service Award recipient Zadie Smith each return to the Chan to bring their sharp intellect and rigorous discussions of contemporary culture and the breadth of work. Chani Nicholas, the world’s most famous astrologer, will make her Vancouver debut and read more than star signs, as she uses the positions of the planets to analyze our current political climate.

This season the Chan is also thrilled to introduce National Geographic Live, a new speaker series accessible to curious minds of all ages, bringing audiences face-to-face with renowned photographers, filmmakers, and scientists that explore the natural world. From big cats and frogs, to the wonder of the night sky, this season will feature Babak Tafreshi, Dr. Jodi Rowley, and Sandesh Kadur, and will expand the Chan Centre’s programming into scientific storytelling and environmental exploration.

From jazz and classical music, to conservation and the Korean diaspora, through to socially-committed astrology and anti-fascist resistance, the 2026–2027 season invites audiences into conversations and performances that inspire, ask vital questions, and illuminate the world around us.

“This season expands our programming in inspiring new directions. More insightful conversations with renowned writers and thinkers, explorations of natural world with Nat Geo Live, and music programming that brings legends and luminaries alongside the discovery of new voices and talent. We have so much to offer and I couldn’t be more thrilled for what’s to come. And this is just the first wave! Stay tuned for more shows in the coming weeks.”

Jarrett Martineau, Head Curator of the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts