Connect2Culture Kicks Off Its 26-27 Performance Season with Michael Cavanaugh and The Second City.

Joplin, Missouri – Connect2Culture (C2C) is thrilled to start its 2026-2027 Performance Season with two performances this September.

“This season, C2C is celebrating ten years of bringing exceptional, live performances to Joplin with another fantastic lineup,” says Emily Frankoski, Executive Director of C2C. “We’re excited to start this can’t-miss season in September with two shows: ‘The Music of Billy Joel, Elton John, & More’ starring Michael Cavanaugh and ‘Laughing For All The Wrong Reasons’ with The Second City.”

All performances in the 2026-2027 season will be held at C2C’s home theater (the 419-seat Beshore Performance Hall) or its outdoor amphitheater (the 1,000-person Leggett & Platt Green) at the Cornell Complex.

The Music of Billy Joel, Elton John, & More Starring Michael Cavanaugh
Sat, Sep. 19, 2026 | 7pm
C2C Venue: Beshore Performance Hall
Ticket Prices: $60 (plus fees)
Genre: Classic Rock • Piano

Michael Cavanaugh rose to fame through his starring role in the Broadway hit Movin’ Out after being personally selected by Billy Joel. In The Music of Billy Joel, Elton John, & More, Cavanaugh delivers a high-energy concert experience featuring the legendary hits of two of rock’s greatest piano icons. Known for his powerful vocals, exceptional piano playing, and magnetic stage presence, Cavanaugh has performed worldwide at major symphony halls, performing arts centers, and iconic venues including Carnegie Hall, thrilling audiences with unforgettable music and showmanship.

Laughing for All the Wrong Reasons with The Second City Sat, Sep. 26, 2026 | 7pm
C2C Venue: Beshore Performance Hall Ticket Prices: $50 (plus fees) Genre: Comedy • Improv

The Second City returns with Laughing For All The Wrong Reasons, a hilarious new revue celebrating nearly 70 years of legendary sketch comedy and improvisation. Featuring a mix of iconic material, fresh new satire, original songs, and audience interaction, the show captures the fearless humor that made The Second City a comedy institution. The company has launched the careers of comedy greats including Tina Fey,

Stephen Colbert, Keegan-Michael Key, and Bill Murray. Performed by the acclaimed Second City Touring Company, this fast-paced production delivers smart, irreverent comedy that feels both timeless and timely.

*May contain adult or mature content. For mature audiences only.

“We can’t wait to share this milestone season with the Joplin area and beyond!” says Frankoski. “And of course, none of this would be possible without the support of our generous sponsors, including our Top Billing Sponsor, Freeman Health System, and our Presenting Sponsors—Sharon and Lance Beshore, Debra and David Humphreys, and EaglePicher Technologies.”

Connect2Culture (C2C) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to igniting a passion for the arts, culture, and entertainment. As Joplin, MO’s community arts agency and a presenter of exceptional performances, C2C enriches the cultural fabric of the region. All performances are hosted at its home, the Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex.

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Reference:

Emily Frankoski, Executive Director
417.501.5550
emily@connect2culture.org