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In this episode of U-M Creative Currents, host Mark Clague interviews Cayenne Harris, Vice President for Learning & Engagement, and Mark Jacobson, Vice President for Programming and Production, both from the University Musical Society (UMS). This episode is part of a U-M Creative Currents' podcast series building excitement for the inaugural Michigan Arts Festival (September 25 - October 26, 2025).
UMS serves as the University of Michigan's performing arts presenter, bringing world-class musicians, dance companies, and theater works to southeast Michigan. Cayenne is a nationally recognized leader in arts education and community engagement who oversees programs for students, faculty, staff, and the community. Mark oversees dance, music and theater programming with a special passion for jazz, having built U-M's ongoing partnership with Wynton Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra.
Featured Programming & Highlights include:
- Verdi's "Requiem" (September 26)
- Nigamon / Tunai (October 2-8)
- Makaya McCraven (October 10)
- Ballet BC (October 17)
- Belcea Quartet (October 19)
- Philharmonia Orchestra, London (October 24)
- Herbie Hancock (October 25)
- Imani Winds Imani Winds & Andy Akiho, steel drum The BeLonging Project (October 26)
- Special ticket programs, including a free “Bert's Ticket” for U-M students
- October 2025 New Faculty Reception
- Upcoming programming: Gatz (March 2026) and Rhiannon Giddens (April 2026)
Cayenne and Mark discuss UMS's mission to deepen the impact of arts on campus and in the community, share what first-time concertgoers need to know about attending performing arts events, and highlight the special programming and engagement opportunities that connect audiences to world-class artists.
*Production Note: This episode is part of U-M Creative Currents' special Michigan Arts Festival podcast series which kicks off on September 25, 2025 and is produced by Jessica Jenks and edited by Sly Pup Productions.
- Subscribe to the Arts Initiative Newsletter
- Checkout our website
- Learn more about the Michigan Arts Festival
