llowing multiple Grammy wins, internationally acclaimed vocalist Samara Joy will perform in Madison on Nov. 15 for a Wisconsin Union Theater Jazz Series performance in Shannon Hall at Memorial Union.
Joy’s Grammys include Best New Artist and Best Jazz Vocal Album. At 23, Samara Joy is one of the youngest artists to receive the Best New Artist honor.
She is known for her contemporary interpretations of jazz standards and her warmth in performances, reminiscent of jazz artists Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday. She has introduced classic jazz to millions of listeners through her viral TikTok performances and online collaborations.
The Madison performance will feature selections from Joy’s albums and jazz standards. Her albums include her self-titled debut album “Samara Joy” in 2021, “Linger Awhile” in 2022, and “Portrait” in 2024. She also released the holiday EP “A Joyful Holiday” in 2023.
“When we heard Samara was touring again, we had to have her back,” WUT Director Elizabeth Snodgrass said. “She has a lot of fans in this jazz-loving town, and ticket sales are showing that. We have some tickets left, but people should act quickly.”
Tickets range from $10 to $84 and can be purchased online, in person at the Memorial Union Box Office or by phone at (608) 265-2787. Patrons can save 15%–20% through a build-your-own-subscription option.
This performance is presented by WUT and the Wisconsin Union Directorate Performing Arts Committee. Other performances in the Jazz Series include Jason Moran and the Harlem Hellfighters on Feb. 7, 2026; Emmet Cohen: “Miles & Coltrane at 100” featuring Jeremy Pelt and Tivon Pennicott on Feb. 28, 2026; and Chucho Valdés and Paquito D’Rivera on April 30, 2026.
Patrons can visit union.wisc.edu/theater for WUT ticket information, subscription options, and additional information about WUT events.