Chris Botti

The Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center will host renowned jazz trumpeter and innovative contemporary musician Chris Botti live on stage Opening Night, Saturday, Aug. 25, as it kicks off the 2012-13 College of the Canyons Presents season.

Having already established himself as the world’s largest selling jazz instrumentalist, with a collection of Billboard No. 1 and Gold and Platinum-selling albums to his credit, Botti continues to perform for audiences in venues across the world.

After an early career spent playing alongside artists ranging from Frank Sinatra to Natalie Cole and Joni Mitchell, during the 1990s Botti had the opportunity to play extensively with both Paul Simon and Sting — experiences which had a profound impact on the young artist.

Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles

As part of his current tour — which includes stops in Japan, Canada and across the United States — Botti will visit the PAC at 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 25, for a sensational evening of music and pre-show VIP reception benefit, that are sure to be talked about in the Santa Clarita Valley for years to come!

Joining Opening Night headliner Chris Botti as part of the 2012-13 PAC season are:

* Grammy-nominated female mariachi ensemble Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles — Oct. 6, 2012

David Sedaris | Photo by Anne Fishbein

* Best-selling author and award-winning humorist David Sedaris — Nov. 12, 2012

* Grammy Award-winning a capella sensation Take 6 — Nov. 29, 2012

* Grammy Award-winning jazz quartet Manhattan Transfer — Dec. 2, 2012

* Platinum-selling country music star Clint Black — Jan. 19, 2013

* Award-winning ABBA tribute band ABBAMANIA — April 26, 2013

Lili Tomlin

* Emmy & Tony Award-winning comedian & actress Lily Tomlin — June 1, 2013

The 2012-13 PAC schedule will offer shows spread across five series selections: Chancellor’s Choice, Great Performances, In Motion, Almost Free Family and the Sounds ofLatin America Series.

Other acts and artists highlighting the season include: The Improvised Shakespeare Company; the Capital Steps political improve troupe; legendary Irish dance troupe Atlantic Steps; DanceBrazil; Tango: From Gardella to Piazzolla; DRUMLine Live; “Clifford the Big Red Dog”; “Ramona Quimby” and the Pushcart Players children’s theatre ensemble.

Pushcart Players

As in years past, the PAC will also host a number of College of the Canyons theatre, music and dance department productions, as well as community group performances.

PAC series subscription sales will begin 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, June 20, while individual tickets for Chris Botti, Clint Black, Lily Tomlin, David Sedaris and all other performances will go on sale 10 a.m. Saturday, July 14.

Tickets can be purchased online, over the phone, or in person at the PAC box office.

“This is one of the most diverse and eclectic seasons we have ever hosted at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center,” said Adam Philipson, PAC managing director. “I encourage you to explore this year’s season, as there is sure to be something of interest for everyone in the family.”

“After all, where else will you have the opportunity to see Chris Botti, Clint Black, Lily Tomlin and Clifford the Big Red Dog all under the same roof?”

All new to the PAC schedule this season is the inclusion of eight J.A.M (Jazzed and Motivated)sessions being held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday evenings July 5 to Aug. 23, in downtown Newhall.

Sponsored in partnership with The Ford Theatre Foundation, these free interactive J.A.M Session events have been designed to introduce community members to new forms of music and movement, with weekly musical themes including samba, salsa, bluegrass, hip-hip, swing and Bollywood.

For more information about the PAC 2012-13 season or to purchase tickets visit www.canyonsPAC.com or call the PAC box office at (661) 362-5304.