USCA’s Etherredge Center Celebrates 40 Years of Bringing the Arts to Aiken

The Etherredge Center at USCA is celebrating a milestone this year as the Cultural Series enters its 40th season. 

To kick off the anniversary, the Etherredge Center hosted a season reveal event May 22 in downtown Aiken to showcase what audiences can expect. 

"Since it's the 40th anniversary, we wanted to feature performers and shows that had been here before, kind of a 'best of' season," said Paul B. Crook, director of the Etherredge Center. "We went back through 40 years of programming and looked at which performances audiences loved most." 

Since its founding in 1986, the Cultural Series has brought world-class performers, orchestras, theater productions and cultural experiences to Aiken audiences. Over four decades, the series has hosted everything from international ballet companies and symphony orchestras to Broadway performers and acclaimed jazz musicians, becoming a cornerstone of the region's arts scene. 

In 2019, the organization expanded its mission with the launch of the Carolina Series, which highlights state artists and cultural traditions. 

This year's tagline, “World-class shows with a local touch,” reflects both the series' history and its continued commitment to serving the community. 

The Cultural Series will kick off Sept. 12 with a performance by The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra, a band known for its blend of jazz, swing and pop music. Audience members can also purchase tickets to an exclusive black-tie VIP reception held in conjunction with the show.  

For the Carolina Series, which features artists exclusively from South Carolina, the Etherredge Center will partner with the South Carolina Governor's School for the Arts and Humanities.  

“We're going to feature four events with their students, including theater, dance, music, and visual arts students. That's going to be a fun partnership and gives the Carolina Series its own unique identity this year,” Crook said. 

Tickets for the Cultural and Carolina Series will go on sale starting July 13.  

  

Cultural and Carolina Series 2026-27 Lineup 

Cultural Series  

The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra – Sept. 12  
The anniversary season opens with a black-tie celebration featuring the high-energy big band sounds of The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra. The evening will include a VIP reception aimed at donors and sponsors while recognizing past Etherredge Center directors. 

Jerron Paxton and Dennis Lichtman – Nov. 17  
This intimate cabaret-style concert in the Etherredge Center lobby showcases two acclaimed musicians performing acoustic blues, ragtime, early jazz, folk traditions, and original works. Guests will enjoy charcuterie and a cash bar. 

Breach of Peace – Feb. 2  
Written and performed by Mike Wiley, this powerful documentary theatre piece tells the story of the Freedom Riders and the fight for civil rights. The event will coincide with Black History Month programming and community partnerships, including educational workshops and exhibits. 

ARTRAGEOUS – March 21 
Designed for audiences of all ages, ARTRAGEOUS combines live painting, music, dance, and visual arts into an interactive, high-energy family experience celebrating creativity and artistic expression. 

Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana: Quinto Elemento – April 3  
The anniversary season concludes with a visually stunning flamenco performance exploring the concept of "ether," featuring award-winning choreography, live music, and internationally acclaimed dancers. 

 

Carolina Series 

Drama Showcase – Jan. 24  
Governor's School theatre students present a dramatic performance followed by a reception where families can meet faculty and learn about educational opportunities. 

Dance and Visual Arts Showcase – Feb. 7 
A performance by dance students is paired with an exhibition of student artwork, highlighting multiple artistic disciplines from the Governor's School. 

Music Showcase – March 14  
The series concludes with a concert featuring Governor's School music students, celebrating young artistic talent from across South Carolina. 

 

 

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