What to watch: Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center delivers a busy May packed with local dance showcases, big-name stand-up comedian Bert Kreischer, a symphonic rock tribute to Led Zeppelin, and intimate chamber performances by a string quartet. The lineup caters to families, music fans, and lovers of laughter across multiple weekends.

  • Absolute Dance Recital 2026 — Friday, May 1, 6:30 p.m., Saturday, May 2, 1 p.m. & 5 p.m., and Sunday, May 3, 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. Absolute Dance marks 25 years “In Our Element” with this multi-day recital. Local dancers showcase years of training through energetic performances full of technique, creativity, and community spirit.
  • Midland Festival Ballet Presents Petite Paquita — Saturday, May 9, 6:30 p.m.
    This mixed-level spring recital draws from the classic ballet Paquita and Ludwig Minkus’ lively, Spanish-flavored score. Dancers blend traditional technique with character and flair for a joyful, rhythm-driven performance suitable for all ages.
  • Midland Dance Academy Presents Spring Concert “C’est la Vie” — Wednesday, May 13, 6:30 p.m.
    Advanced dancers explore Parisian themes in this spring showcase. “J’Adore Paris!” features a variety of styles and scenes that highlight creativity, artistry, and expressive talent from the academy’s top performers.
  • Bert Kreischer: Permission to Party — Thursday, May 14, 7 p.m.
    Outback Presents the high-energy comedian known as Rolling Stone’s “Number One Partier in the Nation.” On his Permission To Party World Tour, Bert brings authentic storytelling, sharp humor, and crowd-pleasing antics.
  • The Music of Led Zeppelin with the West Texas Symphony — Saturday, May 16, 7:30 p.m.
    The West Texas Symphony reinterprets classic Led Zeppelin hits with full orchestral power. This collaboration transforms rock anthems into a dynamic symphonic experience.
  • Tammie Locklar’s Dance Studio Presents Retro Rewind — Monday, May 18, 7 p.m. and Tuesday, May 19, 7 p.m.
    Celebrating 34 years in the Permian Basin, Tammie Locklar’s dancers deliver tap, ballet, jazz, and hip hop numbers in a fun “Retro Rewind” theme. This family-friendly recital entertains all ages.
  • Permian Basin String Quartet — Friday, May 29, 7:30 p.m. (Rea-Greathouse Recital Hall)
    Enjoy an intimate evening of chamber music from the Permian Basin String Quartet and friends in the venue’s recital hall. Perfect for classical music enthusiasts seeking a closer, refined performance.
  • Clarity Dance Academy Recital 2026 — Saturday, May 30, 10 a.m.
    Clarity Dance Academy’s second annual recital, “Barnyard Boogie,” brings farmyard fun to the stage with pigs, ducks, cows, and more. Young dancers deliver a playful, high-energy morning show.

Go deeper: The Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center is located at 1310 N. FM 1788, between Midland and Odessa. Most tickets are available now through the official venue site or Etix. Wagner Noël recommends buying directly from authorized sellers to avoid counterfeits. Prices vary by show.