BROOKINGS — Woodbine Productions and the School of Performing Arts at South Dakota State University announce a once-in-a-lifetime performance by Michael Feinstein with the Carnegie Hall Big Band in “Because of You: My Tribute to Tony Bennett.” 

The concert will take place on at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 15 at the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center, marking the 50th performance in the renowned Woodbine Productions series.

An anonymous donor’s idea 18 years ago was the genesis for a series that’s brought top national and international performers to SDSU.

“Woodbine Productions is fueled by an anonymous donor who underwrites the entire cost of each show, allowing 100% of ticket proceeds to fund music scholarships,” said David Reynolds, director of the School of Performing Arts. “Visiting artists have the opportunity to engage with SDSU students with masterclasses, occasionally inviting them to join on stage to perform. It’s an ingenious model: students benefit from scholarships and star-studded memories; the audience has access to performers rarely found in the Midwest. It perfectly fulfills the donor’s vision.”

Feinstein, celebrated as the “Ambassador of the Great American Songbook,” is a five-time Grammy-nominated artist known for his unparalleled talent in preserving and promoting America’s musical heritage. His illustrious career has seen him perform at prestigious venues worldwide, from the White House to Buckingham Palace, and positioned him to collaborate with legends such as Liza Minnelli, Barbara Cook and the late Tony Bennett himself. 

In “Because of You,” Feinstein will pay a deeply personal tribute to his friend Tony Bennett, performing classics like “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” and “The Way You Look Tonight” alongside the dynamic Carnegie Hall Big Band.

The concert promises to be a memorable celebration of Bennett’s contributions to jazz and popular music, with Feinstein’s signature style bringing these timeless songs to life. As the milestone 50th concert in the Woodbine Productions series, this event holds special significance for the community, offering an extraordinary musical experience while supporting scholarships for SDSU students.

Tickets, with prices ranging from $44-$64 apiece, are available now at www.woodbineproductions.com or by calling the box office at 605-688-6045.