Laurie Anderson live in Santa Cruz

Experience Laurie Anderson live on September 26th

Laurie Anderson will perform at the Rio Theatre in Santa Cruz, California on September 26, 2026. Anderson is a pioneering artist known for her experimental music, incorporating spoken word, electronic music, performance art, and visual media. Her work often explores themes of storytelling, technology, and the human condition. She gained prominence in the early 1980s with the single "O Superman," and has since released numerous albums and created large-scale multimedia presentations.

The Rio Theatre itself opened in 1949 as a single-screen cinema. Throughout its history it operated primarily as a movie house showing first-run films. Facing closure in 2006, it was purchased by a non-profit organization and subsequently renovated to become a multi-use performing arts venue. The Rio now hosts live music, film screenings (including independent and repertory cinema), theatre productions, and community events. The building retains much of its original Art Deco architecture while offering modern amenities. It serves as a significant cultural hub for Santa Cruz County, prioritizing accessibility and diverse programming. The venue’s capacity is approximately 450 people.