American Dreams with Brian Stokes Mitchell

Returning to SPAC for the first time since 2014, two-time Tony® Award–winning Broadway star Brian Stokes Mitchell leads an “American Dreams” program, highlighted by his narration of Aaron Copland’s Lincoln Portrait — a stirring reflection on unity, equality, and democratic responsibility. In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, the program also pays tribute to Marian Anderson’s landmark performance of the work at SPAC 50 years ago, linking past and present in a celebration of American ideals. The evening continues with Broadway favorites, including “Wheels of a Dream” from Ragtime, the role Mitchell originally brought to life, “The Impossible Dream” (Man of La Mancha), and Iryna Aleksiychuk’s Go Where the Wind Takes You…, dedicated to the courageous women of Ukraine, before concluding with Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9, a masterwork inspired by American musical traditions and the nation’s evolving identity. Together, these works honor the past while inspiring hope for the future. The Philadelphia Orchestra at SPAC returns for a three-week summer residency from August 5–22 as part of SPAC’s celebratory 60th anniversary season. Learn more and buy tickets at spac.org