Richard Thompson

(PRINCETON, NJ) -- McCarter Theatre Center presents an exciting weekend of performances, starting with the Czech National Symphony Orchestra on Friday and two exciting WXPN Welcomes events: Richard Thompson on Saturday, and Jason Isbell on Sunday.

The renowned Czech National Symphony Orchestra comes to McCarter on Friday, February 21 at 7:30pm. Under the baton of esteemed conductor Steven Mercurio, the orchestra will present a program featuring works by Voříšek, Mendelssohn, and Dvořák, with violin soloist Sandy Cameron and piano soloist Maxim Lando. Known for its compelling interpretations and rich musical heritage, the Czech National Symphony Orchestra brings its artistry to McCarter’s stage for an unforgettable evening.

On Saturday, February 22 at 7:30pm, the legendary singer-songwriter and virtuoso guitarist Richard Thompson will take the stage. With over five decades of musical exploration—from his groundbreaking work with Fairport Convention in the '60s to his emotional solo career—Thompson captivates audiences with his raw talent and powerful storytelling.

Rounding out the weekend on Sunday, February 23 at 7:00pm, don’t miss the McCarter debut of Jason Isbell, one of the most celebrated songwriters of his generation. Known for his authentic lyrics and masterful guitar skills, Isbell’s poignant songs capture the full range of human emotion, resonating deeply with audiences. His live performances are legendary for their energy, passion, and connection with the crowd.

Tickets for all performances are available at mccarter.org or by calling 609-258-2787. McCarter Theatre is located at 91 University Place in Princeton, New Jersey.

McCarter is one of the country’s flagship theaters and a vibrant center for community and the performing arts. Located on the campus of Princeton University, the company is an independent nonprofit, serving as a nationally renowned, multi-disciplinary creative hub for arts and ideas, offering theatre, music, dance, spoken word, and educational programs for all ages.

A two-time Tony Award winner, McCarter’s legacy of artistic excellence dates back to the theatre’s first performances in 1930. Thornton Wilder’s Our Town, Kaufmann & Hart’s You Can’t Take It with You, and William Inge’s Bus Stop all had their premieres on the McCarter stage, paving the way for a long history of collaborations with playwrights to launch remarkable works that have gone on to tens of thousands of performances, reaching millions of audience members around the world.

The company is equally revered for presenting global artists on its stages, including Alvin Ailey, Yo-Yo Ma, Samara Joy, Hasan Minhaj, Jon Stewart, Caetano Veloso, Rhiannon Giddens, Patti Smith, Esperanza Spalding, Lake Street Dive, and Herbie Hancock, among many others. Of the 100,000 community members who directly participate in the company’s work every year, more than 5,000 are students taking part in McCarter’s robust educational offerings in Princeton, Trenton, and schools throughout the region. McCarter leads with values of “justice and joy, and beauty in belonging,” creating stories and experiences that enliven minds, expand imaginations, and engage communities.