Sweden’s “Queen of Swing” Gunhild Carling Opens 2026/27 Season
Wednesday, August 8, 2026 
Centenary University | Hackettstown, New Jersey
Internationally acclaimed multi-instrumentalist brings an electrifying evening of jazz, swing, and vaudeville to the Sitnik Theatre on September 12, 2026
Centenary Stage Company will open its 2026/27 season with an extraordinary evening of music, swing, and entertainment when internationally acclaimed Swedish performer Gunhild Carling takes the stage at the Sitnik Theatre on Saturday, September 12, at 7:30 p.m.
Known around the world as Sweden’s “Queen of Swing, Jazz, and Vaudeville,” Carling is a virtuoso multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, composer, and entertainer whose electrifying performances have captivated audiences across the globe. Bringing her distinctive blend of jazz, swing, funk, comedy, and vaudeville to Hackettstown, Carling promises to launch Centenary Stage Company’s new season with an unforgettable night of live performance.
Born into the legendary Carling Family musical dynasty, Carling was surrounded by music from an early age, picking up her first instrument before she could walk. Today, she is an accomplished performer on an astonishing array of instruments, including trombone, trumpet, recorder, ukulele, piano, harmonica, and bagpipes. Her performances combine virtuosic musicianship with showmanship, humor, and the theatrical flair that has made her a worldwide sensation.
Carling has amassed more than 70 million views on YouTube, building a global following that spans generations and musical tastes. Her appearances with Postmodern Jukebox introduced her dynamic performances to millions of viewers, while her residencies at New York City’s renowned Birdland further established her reputation as a distinctive voice in the jazz world.
Her career has taken her to some of the world’s most celebrated stages and festivals. She has toured with the legendary Count Basie Orchestra, under the direction of Scotty Barnhart, and has performed at venues including Carnegie Hall, as well as jazz festivals, clubs, and concert stages around the world.
Whether leading her own big band, performing in an intimate jazz club, or entertaining thousands at a major festival, Carling brings an extraordinary energy and personality to every performance. Her shows blend the timeless appeal of swing with the theatrical excitement of vaudeville, creating a live experience that is far more than a traditional concert.
“Gunhild Carling is an incredible way to begin our new season,” said Christopher Young, General Manager of Centenary Stage Company. “She is an extraordinary musician and performer who brings tremendous energy, humor, and excitement to everything she does. We’re thrilled to welcome her to Centenary and give our audiences the opportunity to experience her remarkable talent live.”
The September 12 performance will officially launch Centenary Stage Company’s 2026/27 Professional Season, featuring an exciting lineup of theatre, music, dance, and special events throughout the year.
GUNHILD CARLING
Saturday, September 12, 2026 | 7:30 p.m.
Sitnik Theatre at the Lackland Performing Arts Center
Centenary Stage Company
715 Grand Avenue
Hackettstown, NJ
Tickets: $30–$45 in advance; $5 more on the day of the performance.
Tickets & Information: www.centenarystageco.org | (908) 979-0900
The Centenary Stage Company Box Office is located in the Lackland Performing Arts Center at 715 Grand Avenue, Hackettstown, NJ. Box Office hours are Monday through Friday, 1:00–5:00 p.m., and two hours prior to each performance.
The 2026/27 Season of Performing Arts at Centenary Stage Company is made possible through the generous support of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, The Shubert Foundation, the Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation, the Sandra S. Kupperman Foundation, the John and Margaret Post Foundation, the New Jersey Theatre Alliance, and CSC corporate sponsors including Heath Village, Visions Federal Credit Union, Explore Warren, and the Hackettstown Rotary Club, along with the many members and supporters of Centenary Stage Company.
HACKETTSTOWN, NJ, ARTICLE CONTENT
Contact: Christopher Young | (908) 979-0900
ABOUT CENTENARY UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1867 by the United Methodist Church, Centenary University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs grounded in a strong liberal arts foundation and career-focused learning. Located in Hackettstown, New Jersey, with an equestrian center in Washington Township, Centenary provides students with hands-on, personalized educational experiences that prepare them for success in a global and evolving workforce. Guided by its commitment to student success, university vitality, and world engagement, Centenary empowers students to lead lives of purpose, impact, and lifelong achievement.