Events
From nationally touring Broadway productions and chart-topping musicians to cultural showcases and campus performances, GPAC is southeastern North Carolina’s premier destination for the performing arts. Explore our season lineup and discover our Special Events!
The Spinners
October 16, 2026
Six decades in and The Spinners are still one of the most beloved acts in R&B — and the catalog proves it. I’ll Be Around, Could It Be I’m Falling in Love, The Rubberband Man, It’s A Shame — these are songs that have outlasted trends, formats and generations of imitators. The group’s 18 gold and platinum records and six Grammy nominations tell part of the story, but the Hollywood Walk of Fame star and their 2023 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame say the rest: The Spinners aren’t just a nostalgia act, they’re a landmark.
Come ready to sing along.
Waka Flocka Flame
October 24, 2026
Get ready for an unforgettable night as Waka Flocka Flame brings his high-energy performance to the Givens Performing Arts Center. Known for chart-topping hits like No Hands, Hard in da Paint and Grove St. Party, Waka Flocka Flame has built a reputation for electrifying live shows that keep audiences on their feet. Don’t miss your chance to experience one of rap’s most dynamic performers live at GPAC during UNCP's Homecoming..
Students
Pick up one free ticket with your student I.D. at the box office through Sept. 4.
One companion ticket may be purchased in advance for $25.
Alumni
Tickets will go on sale Aug. 31 and can be purchased online using your banner I.D.
If you need assistance, please call 910.521.6361.
Faculty & Staff
Tickets will go on sale Aug. 31 and can be purchased online using your banner I.D.
Limit of four per employee.
General Public
Tickets will go on sale Sept. 14.
Lumbee Tribe Showcase
November 19, 2026
Experience the rich culture, history and artistry of the Lumbee people at the Lumbee Tribe Showcase. In December 2025, the Lumbee Tribe became the 575th American Indian tribe to receive full federal recognition. This powerful event features music, dance, storytelling and visual art that celebrates the strength, resilience and beauty of one of the largest Native American tribes east of the Mississippi. Join us for a vibrant tribute to tradition, identity and community.
Come enjoy this FREE, non-ticketed Event!
Reservations are required. Contact the GPAC at 910.521.6361 or simply by email.
The Nutcracker
November 22, 2026
Every December, The Nutcracker reminds audiences why some traditions never get old. Presented by World Ballet Company, this production brings Tchaikovsky’s iconic score to life with all the trimmings — sweeping choreography, elaborate costumes and sets that move from a snow-dusted Christmas Eve to the colorful splendor of the Land of Sweets. The music alone, from the playful Trepak to the luminous Waltz of the Flowers, is worth the trip.
Perfect for all ages and a wonderful introduction to ballet for younger audiences, The Nutcracker is the kind of evening that becomes a family tradition.
Holiday Extravaganza
December 3, 2026
Now in its 18th year, UNCP’s Holiday Extravaganza is one of the Pembroke area’s most beloved seasonal traditions. Join students, faculty and special guests for an evening of music, dance and holiday cheer — from classic carols to high-energy performances — capped off with a community sing-along. It’s a great way to gather the family and get into the spirit of the season.
The Pirates of Penzance
January 25, 2027
Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Pirates of Penzance is one of the great comic operas — full of wordplay, absurdist plotting and tunes that stick with you for days. This production by the New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players brings it all to life with a cast of 23 and a full 17-piece orchestra, the way it was meant to be heard.
The story follows young Frederic, who discovers a rather inconvenient loophole in his apprenticeship to a band of tenderhearted pirates — one that threatens to keep him in their service indefinitely. Mix in a brash Pirate King, the pompous Major-General Stanley and his daughters, and you have the makings of an evening that’s equal parts silly and spectacular. The New York Times called it “an endearing production with high musical standards and spirited performances,” and that’s about right.
Cirque Kalabanté
February 2, 2027
Cirque Kalabanté brings the acrobatic tradition of West African performance to the stage in a show that’s as joyful as it is jaw-dropping. Founded by Yamoussa Bangoura, a Guinea-born performer who trained with some of the world’s leading circus companies, the troupe delivers human pyramids, aerial feats, precision juggling and choreography that moves between ancient tradition and contemporary energy — all set to live Afro-Jazz and percussion.
This is a cirque show with a cultural heartbeat. The athleticism is spectacular, but what sets Kalabanté apart is the warmth and storytelling woven through every act — a genuine celebration of African life, music and artistry that the whole family can connect with.
The Cat in the Hat Live on Stage
March 1, 2027, and March 2, 2027 (matinee)
Dr. Seuss’s most mischievous visitor is coming to the GPAC stage. The Cat in the Hat Live on Stage brings the classic story to life with all the chaos, color and imagination that made the book a childhood staple — Sally, her brother, the long-suffering Fish, Thing One, Thing Two and of course the Cat himself, tall hat and all.
The production has been delighting families across New Zealand and Australia since 2018 and is now making its way across the United States. It’s a perfect first theater experience for young audiences, and let’s be honest — just as fun for the adults who grew up with the book.
The Commodores
April 30, 2027
Few bands have a catalog like The Commodores. From the slow-burn romance of Easy and Sail On to the funk workouts of Machine Gun and Brick House, they built a body of work that has held up across generations — more than 70 million albums sold and a GRAMMY to show for it. The group helped define what R&B and funk sounded like in the 1970s and ’80s, and their influence shows up everywhere in the music that followed.
The Commodores are bringing their Greatest Hits Tour — Live! to the GPAC stage, and if you know the songs, you know what to expect. Come ready.
Special Events
58th Annual Hall of Fame & Alumni Awards
October 23, 2026
Join us for the 58th Annual Alumni Awards & Athletic Hall of Fame Ceremony in the University Center Annex. This signature Homecoming event celebrates the legacy and impact of UNC Pembroke alumni and athletes whose achievements exemplify the spirit of BraveNation.
The Athletics Hall of Fame, established in 1980, honors players, coaches, administrators and teams whose contributions have elevated UNCP’s tradition of excellence on and off the field. In addition, the Alumni Awards will recognize distinguished graduates for their professional accomplishments, service, leadership, and early-career achievements. Together, these honors celebrate the enduring pride, excellence, and commitment that define the UNCP community.
2026 NPHC Homecoming Step Show
October 23, 2026
Experience one of Homecoming's most anticipated traditions at UNCP NPHC Homecoming Step Show! Witness the energy, precision, creativity, and rich traditions of the National Pan-Hellenic Council as participating organizations take the stage with dynamic step performances, music and showmanship. Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating culture and unity.