For the second time in as many years, a Grammy Award-winning artist will perform on Opening Night at the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center, as legendary singer and songwriter Kenny Loggins headlines the start of the new 2011-12 season Friday, Sept. 16.

Kenny Loggins has enjoyed incredible success over the past four decades, having continually been celebrated from his work as: an accomplished singer and songwriter; guitar player; one half of a legendary country-rock duo; a massively successful solo artist; a pioneer of the smooth jazz genre; a reigning soundtrack superstar; and an amazing live performer who has made an impact with music fans of all generations.

With 12 platinum albums, and four decades worth of chart-topping hits — including “I’m Alright,” “This Is It,” “Danny’s Song” and “What a Fool Believes” — Loggins will now bring his dynamic sound to the PAC main stage.

An opening night meet and greet will take place prior to the concert for an additional fee. All proceeds from this event will go to the College of the Canyons K-12 Arts Education Program.

Other acts and artists highlighting the 2011-12 PAC season include: Grammy Award-winning vocalist Dionne Warwick, comedian and Saturday Night Live alum Martin Short, Travel Channel’s “No Reservations” host Anthony Bourdain, legendary pianist Roger Williams, Ozomatli, Second City, Momix “Botanicum,” Tao: The Art of the Drum, “101 Years of Broadway,” “Charlotte’s Web,” “The Mask Messenger” and Rennie Harris: RHAW.

“There are so many great artists that will be part of the upcoming COC Presents season,” said Adam Philipson, PAC managing director. “Of course, we are all thrilled about Kenny Loggins and our other talented headliners, but what’s most exciting about this season is the fact that almost every performance will include additional opportunities for students and community members to connect with visiting artists and acts.

“From special receptions to intimate jam sessions, and student bus-in events to master classes, patrons of the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center will have a variety of unique opportunities to experience the season,” added Philipson.

The 2011-12 PAC schedule will offer shows spread across six series selections: Chancellor’s Choice, Great Performances, In Motion, Almost Free Family Series and the all new Sounds of Latin America series and SCV World Music Concert Series.

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 subscriptions are on sale now while individual tickets for Kenny Loggins, Dionne Warwick, Martin Short, Ozomatli and all other performances will go on sale 9 a.m., Saturday, July 16.

Tickets can be purchased online, over the phone, or in person at the PAC box office. It’s recommended that patrons plan to purchase their tickets early for Kenny Loggins, as Opening Night at the PAC sells out fast.

For more information about the PAC 2011-12 season or to purchase tickets please visit www.canyonsPAC.com or call the PAC box office at (661) 362-5304.