Now the Conductor and Bandleader of one of America’s most famous music institutions, Paul Mercer Ellington continues his grandfather’s legacy–leading the Duke Ellington Orchestra in concert all around the globe. Born and raised in Denmark, Paul often traveled to other countries with his father, Mercer K. Ellington, who was grooming him to someday lead the family band. One day, Mercer pulled him aside and said “Son, this is all yours, make sure you keep it going!” It became clear to Paul that he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps. Website

The beloved children’s story by E.B White comes to life on the Paramount stage, directed by Rob Barron (current Theatreworks USA productions of Romeo & Juliet, Ferdinand the Bull, Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel, among others). Charlotte’s Web is a tale of an unlikely friendship between a young pig named Wilbur and Charlotte, a wise spider who devises a clever way to save him from a harsh end. This 60-minute play is recommended for audiences age 5 and up.

Two unparalleled artists join forces to create a groundbreaking new Ring for the Met: Maestro James Levine and director Robert Lepage. The cycle launches with Das Rheingold, the prologue to Wagner’s epic drama. “The Ring is not just a story or a series of operas, it’s a cosmos,” says Lepage, who brings cutting-edge technology and his own visionary imagination to the world’s greatest theatrical journey. Bryn Terfel sings the leading role of Wotan for the first time with the company, heading an extraordinary cast.

STAR TREK LIVE is an action-packed, interactive adventure based on the Star Trek franchise. Presented by Mad Science Productions, the show combines science with entertainment, and sparks a world of discovery by teaching and encouraging scientific literacy. Audience members will leave the attraction with an understanding of the different elements of science and technology. STAR TREK LIVE on the Paramount stage is sure to be an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages.

Craig Ferguson entered the world of late night comedy following a diverse and eclectic career that encompasses film, television and the stage. Since taking the helm of the Late, Late Show on January 3, 2005, the show has set all-time viewer records in the five years that it has been on the air. Since winning his first Emmy nomination in 2006 for the Late, Late Show, Craig has seem to become the topic of conversation within the media and a growing trend of success in 2010.

In an era when female singer-songwriters are ever more ubiquitous, Shawn Colvin stands out as a singular and enduring talent. Her songs are slow-release works of craft and catharsis that become treasured, lifetime companions for their listeners. As a storyteller, Colvin is both keen and warm-hearted, leavening even the toughest tales with tenderness, empathy, and a searing sense of humor. Website

René Pape takes on one of the greatest bass roles in a production by renowned theater and opera director Peter Stein, in his Met debut. Valery Gergiev conducts Mussorgsky’s epic spectacle that captures the suffering and ambition of a nation. “Boris Godunov is a masterpiece,” Stein says. “The challenge is to transmit the enormous emotional depth of the whole thing. Boris is the czar, but he is expressing a problem we all have: the consequences of human actions.” Aleksandrs Antonenko, Vladimir Ognovenko, and Ekaterina Semenchuk lead the huge cast.

Warren Miller Entertainment’s 61st annual ski and snowboard film understands the challenges of the snow-dicted. Wintervention gets you the help you need from the people who know. The cast of boards-certified riders includes the most trusted names in ripping — people like Chris Davenport, JJ Thomas, Lindsey Vonn, and Hugo Harrison. Also appearing are some of the top young talent in the field — innovators like Andy Mahre, Jossi Wells, and Zach Black. Website

Dr. Peter Wilson is an engaging and multifaceted American violinist and conductor whose musicianship has been noted as “first-class” by The Washington Post. He was appointed Music Director of the Waynesboro Symphony Orchestra in 2007 and has conducted the National Symphony Orchestra as well as the National Gallery Orchestra.