The Mann Center for the Performing Arts has announced its special programming for its 50th anniversary in 2026. This accompanied the Mann Center’s announcement of its transformational $70 million capital campaign, with $56 million of that already raised.
As a centerpiece of its 50th anniversary programming, the Mann Center has commissioned composer Peter Boyer and librettist Mark Campbell to create an original oratorio about the 1876 Centennial Exhibition, which took place in part on the very grounds which The Mann Center occupies. Entitled A Hundred Years On, Boyer and Campbell’s new work (c. 45 minutes in duration) will be premiered by The Philadelphia Orchestra and The Crossing (Donald Nally, conductor), along with five vocal soloists, on June 17, 2026. The conductor, soloists, and stage director for the performance will be announced at a later date.
The Philadelphia Inquirer published an in-depth article by Peter Dobrin about The Mann Center’s 50th anniversary campaign and 2026 programming, including this new work.
Major support for this program is provided by The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage, with additional support provided by America250 PA and Philadelphia Funder Collaborative for the Semiquincentennial.
