Lincoln Center announced a vibrant expansion of its 2026 American Songbook series today, headlined by a celebratory concert marking the 50th anniversary of ntozake Shange’s groundbreaking play, for colored girls who have considered suicide / when the rainbow is enuf. The series will also feature a diverse array of programming designed to spotlight underrepresented voices in American musical theater.
The expanded series aims to broaden access to and gratitude for the American Songbook, moving beyond traditional interpretations to encompass a wider range of cultural influences and artistic expressions. This initiative is particularly meaningful as Lincoln Center seeks to engage new audiences and foster a more inclusive representation of American musical heritage, with the for colored girls concert serving as a powerful centerpiece.
The for colored girls concert, scheduled for 2026, will honor Shange’s seminal work, a choreopoem that revolutionized American theater with its unflinching portrayal of the experiences of black women. Details regarding performers and specific dates will be released at a later time.
Beyond the headline event, the 2026 American Songbook series will include curated programs dedicated to the contributions of Latinx, Asian American, and Indigenous composers and lyricists. Lincoln Center intends to commission new works and revive lesser-known musicals, enriching the canon and providing platforms for emerging artists. The series will also incorporate educational initiatives, workshops, and community engagement activities to deepen audience understanding and appreciation.
