PNE adds Cynthia Erivo with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, more acts to summer concert series

Cynthia Erivo, left, and Herbie Hancock perform 'In Other Words' during the 67th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

The PNE has revealed another round of performers for its annual summer concert series—with “Wicked” star Cynthia Erivo set to take the stage alongside the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, as more big names join the lineup.

Another five acts were announced Wednesday, joining the initial five unveiled Tuesday. The PNE said the final five performers will be named on Thursday.

Also among the latest additions set to perform at the new amphitheatre are Mt. Joy, Punjabi Virsa, Train and the Barenaked Ladies.

The PNE said this year’s lineup features a diverse mix of Canadian talent, alternative rock, folk, rap and more.

The first weekend will kick off with Canadian favourites Blue Rodeo and The Guess Who. The PNE calls it a “full-circle moment” as Blue Rodeo was the band that delivered the final performance at the former amphitheatre, which was closed in 2023 after a 59-year run.

Organizers say the summer concert series is one of the fair’s most anticipated events each year—with this season expected to draw even more attention as it debuts its new amphitheatre.

“(It) will officially christen the Freedom Mobile Arch as Western Canada’s newest premier outdoor concert destination,” organizers said in a news release Tuesday. “The state-of-the-art, open-air venue is set to redefine live music in Vancouver.”

The concert schedule is as follows:

• Aug. 22: Blue Rodeo
• Aug. 23: The Guess Who
• Aug. 25: The Beaches
• Aug. 26: Nelly
• Aug. 27: Zedd
• Aug. 28: Mt. Joy
• Aug. 29: Cynthia Erivo with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra
• Aug. 30: Punjabi Virsa
• Sept. 1: Train
• Sept. 2: Barenaked Ladies

Fair admission is included in the price of each concert ticket, which go on sale Monday.

The PNE runs from Aug. 22 to Sept. 7, except for the Mondays of Aug. 24 and 31.