Audience Louisville Arts Season Calendar - 2024-2025

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2024-25 Arts Season Calendar

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Welcome to Audience502’s inaugural Performing Arts Season Calendar!

This guide features the full 2024-25 seasons of the major arts groups in Louisville, including Broadway in Louisville, Louisville Orchestra, Louisville Ballet, Kentucky Opera, Derby Dinner Playhouse, and more.

Audience has been the voice of Louisville’s performing arts community for more than 30 years. You might have seen our name and logo on local theater playbills, or on the monthly magazine we launched during the pandemic to provide an outlet for arts organization to tell their stories when stages went dark.

Now, we’re pleased to provide a comprehensive performing arts calendar that you can keep handy all season long! This quick-reference guide includes enticing show descriptions, so you’ll know what to expect from each performance. At the back of the guide, you can find more information about each performing arts organization, as well as the venues where they perform.

If you’ve picked up a copy of this guide, then you are already a patron of the local arts. Your readership supports our advertisers, who in turn support us, and allow us to bring you this Performing Arts Season Calendar free of charge!

Thank you for being part of the Louisville performing arts community. We’ll see you at the theater!

SEPTEMBER

1-29

DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE: JERSEY BOYS

Follow the evolution of four blue-collar kids who became one of the greatest successes in pop-music history. This award-winning musical takes you behind the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons and features electrifying performances of their chart-topping hits! Visit DerbyDinner.com for performance dates and times.

7-8

BIG FOUR ARTS FESTIVAL

Waterfront Park - Big Four Bridge Lawn

The Big Four Arts Festival has been the most attended two-day event ever held at Waterfront Park on the Big Four Bridge Lawn. The annual event features over 150 juried fine artists, craftsman, jewelers, and artisans as well as live music, handson activities, food, beer, wine and more.

11-22

CENTERSTAGE AT JCC WITH DRAG DADDY PRODUCTIONS: BENT

BENT follows the journey of Max, a gay man in 1930s Berlin, through the vibrant gay and drag scene of Germany to the devastating horrors of Dachau concentration camp. Along the way we encounter many of Max’s former lovers and his family’s desperate attempts to lead him out of Germany and into safety. Max, concealing his true identity under a yellow star of David, ultimately finds solace in his love for Horst, a fellow prisoner marked with a pink triangle for his homosexuality. Despite their bond in the darkness of the camp, both Max and Horst face tragic fates as victims of hatred, violence, and persecution.

12

SPEED ARTS MUSEUM: ART OF BOURBON

Don’t miss Kentucky’s premier bourbon auction where some of the most sought-after bottles of Kentucky Bourbon will be available for auction.

All proceeds support education programs and exhibitions at the Speed Art Museum. Info at SpeedArtMuseum.org

14

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: THE PLANETS

Season Opener!

Conductor: Paolo Bortolameolli

Piano: David Fray

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Let the immersive sound of The Planets transport you through the cosmos, from the blood-red might of Mars to the mystical serenity of Neptune, set aglow by a heavenly choir. Mozart’s effervescent piano concerto channels that magical time when Vienna was the center of everything. An LO-commissioned gem from a 20th-century French legend shows how fertile Kentucky has always been for great music. There’s a whole universe out there beckoning, but you already know the buzz is true: The Louisville Orchestra is the place to be!

OCTOBER

1-6

BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE: LES MISÉRABLES

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

STILL THE WORLD’S MOST POPULAR MUSICAL. Cameron Mackintosh presents the acclaimed production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s Tony Award®-winning musical phenomenon, Les Misérables. Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption — a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit.

2

SPEED ART MUSEUM: THE BACCHANAL

The Speed Art Museum’s Bacchanal is an annual costumed cocktail party that is always the talk of the town and a social event you won’t want to miss. Delight your senses with live performances, drinks and light bites, all through the immersive spirit of art and creativity. Info at SpeedArtMuseum.org.

3-NOV 10

DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE: DRACULA

Professor Van Helsing must hunt down and destroy the evil Count Dracula ending in a shocking confrontation between the King of Vampires and those who would rid the world of him. This adaptation, written by William McNulty, is an action-packed retelling of Bram Stoker’s classic tale of horror. Visit DerbyDinner.com for performance dates and times.

4-6

ST. JAMES COURT ART SHOW

Historic Old Louisville

Rain or shine and free of charge, 2024 marks the 68th Annual St. James Court Art Show. This juried fine arts and contemporary crafts show features over 600 artists from around the United States

and is held among the country’s largest collection of Victorian homes in the heart of historic Old Louisville. This four-square block, outdoor art show takes place annually on the first weekend of October with six unique sections, one art show, spread among St. James Court, Belgravia Court, Fourth Street, Third Street, 1300 Section, West End Baptist Church.

13

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: ORKIDSTRA: FAMILY SPOOKTACULAR

Old Forester’s Paristown Hall

Don’t miss this new free concert series perfect for families and music lovers of all ages.

12

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: BRAHMS X RADIOHEAD

Old Forester’s Paristown Hall

Brahms X Radiohead is an epic symphonic synthesis of Radiohead’s album OK Computer and the Brahms’ First Symphony, composed for full symphony orchestra and three solo vocalists. The piece offers a re-imagined experience of each work by seeing it through the lens of the other, exploring the explosive tension and deep pathos they have in common. Brahms’ 19th-century orchestral sound palette is used throughout, but woven in, superimposed, and inserted are the melodies

and music of Radiohead. At times one hears the themes and lyrics of Radiohead suspended over Brahms’ symphony; at times the orchestra plays the music of Radiohead but filtered through the counterpoint and harmonies of Brahms. Every combination of synthesis is explored in Hackman’s recomposition, as the music moves from one to the other so seamlessly that many times the audience is left wondering which is which, and how the combination was even possible.

13-DEC 31

DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE:

IT’S A WONDERFUL

LIFE

An adaptation of Frank Capra’s classic film brought to vibrant theatrical life! This uplifting story follows the extraordinary lives of ordinary people and celebrates the innate goodness in us all. A holiday must! Visit DerbyDinner.com for performance dates and times.

19

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: CARMINA BURANA

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center Featuring Louisville Chamber Choir

Teddy Abrams leads a massive array of instrumentalists and singers through the earthshaking, life-affirming power of Orff’s Carmina Burana. Wherever the wheel of fate spins you next — love, lust, heartbreak, consolation, maybe a tavern to drown your sorrows — this feast of sound shakes you by the shoulders and implores you to live each day to the fullest while you can. A poignant masterpiece by Teddy’s dear friend and mentor, Michael Tilson Thomas, meditates on the experiences that unite us across different cultures and generations.

23

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: (UN)SILENT

FILM: NOSFERATU

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Dive into a night of thrilling suspense with the Louisville Orchestra’s (Un)Silent Film: Nosferatu on October 23. Watch the iconic silent film Nosferatu (1922), a masterpiece of horror that tells the eerie tale of Count Orlok, a vampire from Transylvania

who brings terror and plague upon his quest for a new home and a fresh victim. This chilling tale comes alive like never before with a haunting live score by Sebastian Chang, performed by the mesmerizing Louisville Orchestra during the film. After a spellbinding world premiere last year, this masterpiece returns for its second annual performance, promising an evening where music and shadow meld into an unforgettable spectacle. Grab your tickets for this unique blend of gothic horror and harmonic beauty. Sebastian Chang, composer for Nosferatu describes the piece: “It took a couple of months to complete the original score. The piece uses different motifs to represent different characters. Because there’s no dialogue it depends entirely on the music to feed the audience the emotions that I want them to lean towards when they’re viewing the film. I did a short score of about four staves, and then I expanded that out to orchestration. My inspiration came from all the great composers of the Classical tradition, and probably all of the old Hollywood scores, from the 50s or the 70s.”

25-26

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: STAR TREK: MUSICAL VOYAGE THROUGH THE STARS

25th: Ogle Center at Indiana University Southeast 26th: Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center Conductor: Bob Bernhardt

Relive the iconic moments and adventures of Star Trek through its unforgettable music. From the original series to The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, Voyager, and beyond, this concert will take you on a sonic voyage through the beloved Star Trek universe. Experience the sweeping orchestral compositions that have become synonymous with the epic space odyssey. From the heroic themes of the starships to the stirring melodies of alien worlds, this concert is a celebration of the rich musical tapestry woven throughout the Star Trek saga. Whether you’re a die-hard Trekkie or simply a fan of great music, the Star Trek: Musical Voyage Through the Stars is an event not to be missed. Secure your tickets now and join us as we embark on a thrilling adventure through the cosmos, all set to the unforgettable music that has captured the hearts of fans for generations.

NOVEMBER

1-3

LOUISVILLE BALLET: TRIPLE TAKE

The Brown Theatre

World Premiere by Adam Hougland; Music by Igor Stravinsky; Influences by Harald Uwe Kern; Music by Robert Schumann; 502 by Ching Ching Wong; Music by Jack Harlow

Hits of Louisville’s own Jack Harlow and symphonies of Stravinsky and Schumann collide with electrifying new choreography in this mixed-repertory program. Featuring three world premieres by Artistic Director Harald Uwe Kern, Resident Choreographer Adam Hougland, and Ching Ching Wong, this collection of never-before-seen classical and contemporary works will keep you on your toes.

7-17

CENTERSTAGE AT THE JCC: YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN

Charlie Brown and the entire Peanuts gang explore life’s great questions as they play baseball, struggle with homework, sing songs, swoon over their crushes, and celebrate the joy of friendship.

9

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: RICK STEVES’ EUROPE: A SYMPHONIC JOURNEY

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Conductor: Bob Bernhardt

Additional appearance by Rick Steves Rick Steves, America’s leading authority on European travel, teams up with the Louisville Orchestra for a musical journey that begins in the United States, and touches down in seven different European countries. This unique concert celebrates music’s power to stir the patriotic soul. Playing musical tour guide, Rick Steves utilizes his extensive knowledge of European history and culture to help set the context for each piece. Then, the orchestra performs a selection of stirring 19th-century anthems by Romantic-era composers, including Grieg, Smetana, Strauss, Berlioz, Elgar, Wagner, and Verdi. Each selection honors a particular nationality, while the finale, Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” (Europe’s

official anthem) pays homage to the continent’s motto of “United in Diversity.” The music is accompanied by a montage of evocative video images from each country.

15 & 17

KENTUCKY OPERA: MADAMA BUTTERFLY

The Brown Theatre

Music by Giacomo Puccini; Libretto by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa

Swept off her feet by an American soldier, the young Cio-Cio San sacrifices everything for love. Though he departs for America, he promises to return for her, and she waits faithfully. Puccini’s luxurious score sets the tone for this new production set in Japan in the 1940s.

15 & 16

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: RAY CHEN PLAYS BARBER

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center Coffee Series Concert: Nov. 15, 11am

Violinist Ray Chen joins Teddy Abrams and the Louisville Orchestra to render the sublime beauty and thrilling virtuosity of a true American classic: Samuel Barber’s Violin Concerto. Louisville native Valerie Coleman explores hope and inspiration through the lens of the Great Migration and Black Renaissance that reshaped American culture. The diverse threads of our national tapestry converge here, where the new class of the Louisville Orchestra Creator Corps has taken up residency to create music and community. Be with us as we lay that foundation together!

Greek island paradise where the sun always shines, a tale of love, friendship, and identity is beautifully told through the timeless hits of ABBA. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited decades ago.

5 & 6

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: HANDEL’S MESSIAH

5th: Cathedral of the Assumption

6th: Ogle Center at Indiana University Southeast

Prepare to be moved by the timeless beauty of Handel’s Messiah at the Cathedral of the Assumption. Join us for an enchanting evening on as we present Handel’s masterpiece, performed by the exquisite musicians of the Louisville Orchestra and the talented chorus of voices by the Louisville Chamber Choir.

7

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: HANDEL’S MESSIAH - SING-A-LONG

St. Michael Catholic Church

Join us for a unique and joyous Sing Along performance of Handel’s Messiah at St. Michael Catholic Church. This special event invites you to be a part of the music, as the audience joins in with the Louisville Orchestra and the Louisville Chamber

Choir, conducted by Kent Hatteberg. Experience the thrill of singing timeless choruses like “For Unto Us a Child is Born” and the iconic “Hallelujah” chorus in a beautiful communal setting.

13-24

LOUISVILLE BALLET: THE BROWN-FORMAN NUTCRACKER

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center Choreography by Val Caniparoli Music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Join Marie and her valiant Nutcracker prince on a magical journey to the land of the Sugar Plum Fairy. With world-class choreography, sets, and costumes crafted for Kentucky, The Brown-Forman Nutcracker is a must-see local tradition.

13-22

KENTUCKY OPERA: AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS

Kentucky Opera Center for Cultural Health Music & Libretto by Gian Carlo Menotti Sung in English

Amahl and his mother live in poverty, traveling from town to town in the Great Depression. In a world where we often focus on what we can gain, this Kentucky Opera production weaves a poignant narrative that highlights the importance of what we can give. Visit KYOpera.org for performance dates and times.

The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.
Photo by Sam English

14

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: HOLIDAY POPS

Louisville Palace

Conductor: Bob Bernhardt

Get ready to usher in the holiday season with Holiday Pops on December 14 at the enchanting Louisville Palace. Under the baton of conductor Bob Bernhardt, this concert promises to be a festive musical celebration filled with the greatest holiday hits. Join us for a heartwarming program featuring the greatest holiday hits that have become timeless classics. From beloved carols to festive favorites, this concert will fill your heart with the spirit of the season. Whether you’re young or young at heart, Holiday Pops is a concert that brings families and friends together to celebrate the joy and wonder of the holidays through music. Secure your tickets now and make Holiday Pops a cherished tradition with your loved ones. Join us for a festive evening of music and merriment that will leave you with lasting memories of the holiday season.

JANUARY

3-4

DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE:

A SALUTE TO THE RAT PACK & FRIENDS

Back by popular demand! Starring DDP favorites Tyler Bliss, Corwyn Hodge & Blake Graham, this concert will put you right back in the showroom of the Sands Hotel circa 1960! You’ll have a ball as the gang takes you through an evening honoring the legacies of Frank, Dean, Sammy and their contemporaries. Full of swingin’ standards and lots of laughs, this is sure to be a performance that will “get under your skin!”

8-FEB 16

DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE: LOVE, LIES & THE LOTTERY

Ever wonder what happens when a multi-milliondollar lottery prize goes unclaimed? Poor Peter never did until he discovers he has the winning ticket and only a week to claim the prize! Will he make it in time? A laugh-out-loud comedy written by Jim Hesselman. Visit DerbyDinner.com for performance dates and times.

17 & 18

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA:

MIDORI AND AN ALPINE SYMPHONY

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center Coffee Series Concert: Jan. 17, 11am

The Louisville Orchestra swells in size and scope to mount an epic alpine adventure, with the intrepid hand of Teddy Abrams guiding the way through the brilliant orchestral swirls of Richard Strauss. The singular talent of Midori illuminates the sunsparkling, ice-encrusted wonder of Sibelius’ Violin Concerto. A pioneering piece by Chou Wen-Chung from the intersection of Eastern and Western cultures, commissioned by the LO 60 years ago, draws you in close enough to hear what lives inside the stillness. Spare yourself the jet lag and take a transformative journey inward to the summit of the soul!

25

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: DER KAISER VON ATLANTIS

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

The Emperor of Atlantis wedges everything you would want from an opera into one uproarious hour: larger-than-life characters, gut-wrenching emotions, sharp-edged humor, ear-friendly tunes, and a heartwarming message to embrace life, no matter the circumstances. Like a diamond that forms when ordinary carbon is subjected to intense pressure, this theatrical marvel was miraculously created inside the Theresienstadt concentration camp, where the Czech-

Jewish composer Viktor Ullmann was imprisoned before being sent to his death at Auschwitz. Paired with music by Creator Corps composer Brittany Green, this program continues the Louisville Orchestra’s “Journeys of Faith,” probing intersections of Black and Jewish cultures.

FEBRUARY

1-2

LOUISVILLE BALLET: A TIME REMEMBERED

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Holocaust, this concert of art, music, and movement tells the story of the healing power of the human spirit to overcome great tragedy. Offering powerful perspectives on both the darkness and the light of humanity. A Time Remembered honors the millions of lives lost and illuminates the spirit of hope in those who survived.

7

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: TIME FOR THREE

Ogle Center at Indiana University Southeast

Don’t miss Teddy Abrams and the Louisville Orchestra when they share the stage with string trio, Time for Three at the Ogle Center.

9

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA:

ORKIDSTRA: DANCE PARTY

Old Forester’s Paristown Hall

Join the Louisville Orchestra and conductor Gabriel Lefkowitz for a free new concert series that is perfect families and music lovers of all ages.

14 & 15

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: RAVEL’S ROMANTIC REVERIE

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center Coffee Series Concert: Feb. 14, 11am

Love is in the air when Maestro Ken-David Masur returns to lead some of the most gorgeous music

ever written for orchestra! Ravel’s luscious textures are an endless banquet for the senses, from the dreamy moonlight of his Piano Concerto’s immortal slow movement to the glowing sunrise of his most picturesque ballet score. That same French air of sonic luxury abounds in Franck’s rendering of the timeless romance of Psyche and Eros. French delight meets Japanese intentionality in the uncommonly sensitive music of Takemitsu, who offers a starryeyed gaze into the heavens.

18-MAR 2

BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE: MOULIN ROUGE!

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eyepopping excess, of glitz, grandeur, and glory! A world where Bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment. Welcome to Moulin Rouge! The Musical! Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza.

19-MAR 30

DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE: URINETOWN: THE MUSICAL

A side-splitting and award-winning musical comedy about greed, love, and revolution, during a time when a 20-year drought led to a governmentenforced ban on private toilets. A wickedly funny comedic romp! Visit DerbyDinner.com for performance dates and times.

19

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK

Louisville Palace

Embark on an epic adventure like never before with Raiders of the Lost Ark on February 19 at the iconic Louisville Palace. Under the masterful baton of conductor Jason Seber, this concert offers a thrilling and immersive experience as you relive the classic film on the big screen with the live accompaniment of the Louisville Orchestra. Experience the timeless magic of Indiana Jones as you watch Raiders of the Lost Ark on the big screen, while the Louisville Orchestra performs John Williams’ iconic score live. This unique combination of film and live music

Robert Petkoff as Harold Zidler and the cast of the North American tour of Moulin Rouge!

The Musical. Photo by Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade.

will transport you to the heart-pounding world of adventure. Relive the legendary moments and memorable music that have made Raiders of the Lost Ark a cinematic classic. From the daring escape from the boulder to the sweeping themes that accompany Indy’s quest, this concert captures the essence of the film’s excitement. Whether you’re a die-hard Indiana Jones fan or simply looking for a thrilling night at the movies, Raiders of the Lost Ark promises an unforgettable experience that appeals to audiences of all ages. Secure your tickets now for an evening of high-flying adventure, daring escapades, and the unforgettable music of John Williams. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness one of cinema’s greatest adventures brought to life by the Louisville Orchestra at the Louisville Palace!

20-MAR 9

CENTERSTAGE AT THE JCC:

DISNEY’S HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL

It’s the first day after winter break at East High. The Jocks, Brainiacs, Thespians and Skater Dudes find their cliques, recount their vacations and look forward to the new year. Basketball team captain and resident jock, Troy, discovers that the brainy Gabriella, a girl he met singing karaoke on his ski trip, has just enrolled at East High. They cause an upheaval when they decide to audition for the high

school musical that is being led by Ms. Darbus. Although many students resent the threat posed to the “status quo,” Troy and Gabriella’s alliance might just open the door for others to shine as well.

21 & 23

KENTUCKY OPERA: THIS LITTLE LIGHT OF MINE

The Brown Theatre Music by Chandler Carter Libretto by Diana Solomon-Glover

This Little Light of Mine dramatizes the story of Fannie Lou Hamer, a former sharecropper who rose to national prominence at the 1964 Democratic National Convention. As a black woman of humble origins, she spoke truth to power as perhaps no other civil rights leader and shines as an extraordinary reminder that every light, no matter how small, has the power to illuminate the world.

22

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: DECADES: BACK TO THE ‘80S Louisville Palace

Under the vibrant baton of conductor Bob Bernhardt, this concert promises a power-packed

Experience the magic of live music with world-class concerts, renowned guest artists, and breathtaking performances under the visionary direction of Teddy Abrams.

evening filled with the decade’s #1 hit songs. Decades: Back to the ’80s is a power-packed evening of the decade’s #1 hit songs, including “The Power of Love,” “Time After Time,” “Material Girl,” “Another One Bites The Dust,” “Footloose,” “Addicted to Love” and many others. Featuring the music of such ‘80s iconic stars as Madonna, Debbie Gibson, Huey Lewis & The News, Phil Collins, Queen, Joe Cocker, and others, Back to the ‘80s contains all new arrangements by Grammy-winner Jeff Tyzik and features three incredible vocalists. Don’t miss this opportunity to relive the ‘80s in style. Secure your tickets now for an evening of nostalgia, energetic music, and unforgettable fun at the Louisville Palace. Get ready to dance, sing along, and create new memories with the music that defined a generation!

MARCH 1

SPEED ART MUSEUM BALL

The Speed Ball is the most significant annual fundraiser for the Speed Art Museum, providing critical support for the mission of the Speed: For everyone to celebrate art forever through worldclass exhibitions, engaging and relevant community programs, and impactful education and outreach work. White or black tie attire is required. Info at SpeedArtMuseum.org.

7 & 8

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: STRAVINSKY’S FIREBIRD

7th: Coffee Series concert at 11AM at Whitney Hall

7th: Evening concert at the Ogle Center at Indiana University Southeast at 7:30

8th: Evening concert at Whitney Hall at 7:30

Berlioz’ riotous tribute to Carnival season and Stravinsky’s breathtaking romp through supernatural folklore bracket this celebration of the huge, multigenerational family that the Louisville Orchestra is proud to be! Concertmaster Gabriel Lefkowitz and principal cello Nicholas Finch pull off an unprecedented “double-double,” starring in two double concertos commissioned by the LO. The muscular score by trailblazer Ellen Taaffe Zwilich — composed in 1991, not long after she became the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize

for Music — helped shatter the glass ceiling in contemporary composition. A brand-new concerto from Creator Corps alum Alex Berko spotlights the irrepressible lyricism of this rising star.

22

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: A BOY BAND SYMPHONY

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Get ready for a nostalgic blast from the past with A Boy Band Symphony. Under the skilled baton of conductor Bob Bernhardt, this concert promises an unforgettable evening featuring some of the most iconic hits of the 90s and early 2000s boy band craze with member from three internationally adored boy bands O-Town, 98 Degrees, and NSYNC to relive the magic of the 90s and 2000s with their spectacular showcase of greatest hits.

25-30

BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE: PETER PAN

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

This high-flying musical has been thrilling audiences of all ages for close to 70 years and is now being brought back to life in a new adaptation by celebrated playwright Larissa FastHorse, directed by Emmy Award winner Lonny Price and choreography by Lorin Latarro. The adventure begins when Peter Pan and his mischievous sidekick, Tinker Bell, visit the bedroom of the Darling children late one night. With a sprinkle of fairy dust and a few happy thoughts, the children are taken on a magical journey they will never forget.

APRIL

3-MAY 18

DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE: SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN

Hollywood of the 1920s is the setting for this lighthearted and romantic MGM classic filled with showstopping dance numbers and memorable music. Grab your umbrella, it will rain on stage!

4-6

LOUISVILLE BALLET: CINDERELLA

Choreography by Alun Jones

Music by Sergei Prokofiev

This dreamy and comical story of a servant turned princess is sure to delight the whole family. When Cinderella is forced to endure the antics of two ugly stepsisters, she finds escape through a kindhearted Fairy Godmother, a handsome prince, and one enchanted pair of glass slippers.

4-11

KENTUCKY OPERA: PYGMALION

Kentucky Opera Center for Cultural Health

Music by Jean-Philippe Rameau

Concept by Tara Branham

Céphise is a 1950s housewife trying to live up to her husband’s expectations, while her husband, Pygmalion, is equally committed to finding perfection in his own work. Is perfection worth the cost? This Baroque opera features the Kentucky Opera Baroque Ensemble on period instruments for an authentically ancient sound. Visit KYOpera.org for performance dates and times.

9

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS™ PART 1

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

The End Begins. Experience part one of the epic finale through a CineConcerts event with the full film and live symphony orchestra, bringing Harry’s pivotal battle to life.

11

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: MICHAEL FEINSTEIN’S TRIBUTE TO TONY BENNETT

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Michael Feinstein brings to life the iconic songs and legacy of Tony Bennett in a heartfelt tribute to pay homage to the legendary Tony Bennett, delivering a symphony of sound that celebrates Bennett’s timeless music. The performance will feature beloved hits such as “Because of You,” “Rags to Riches,” “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” “The Best is Yet To Come,” “I Get a Kick Out of You,” “Stranger in Paradise,” and many more. Feinstein’s dynamic interpretations, coupled with the grandeur of the Louisville Orchestra, will create an unforgettable night that honors Tony Bennett’s legacy in all its glory.

18

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS™ PART 2

Louisville Palace

Experience the grand finale with Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows™ Part 2 in concert. Relive the epic battle at Hogwarts™ with Alexandre Desplat’s score performed live alongside the film presented on the giant screen.

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22-27

BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE: & JULIET

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Created by the Emmy®-winning writer from “Schitt’s Creek,” this hilarious new musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told. & Juliet asks: what would happen next if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love — her way.

MAY

8-18

CENTERSTAGE AT THE JCC: 9 TO 5

Pushed to the boiling point, three female coworkers concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot they call their boss. In a hilarious turn of events, Violet, Judy and Doralee live out their wildest fantasy – giving their boss the boot! While Hart remains “otherwise engaged,” the women give their workplace a dream makeover, taking control of the company that had always kept them down. Hey, a girl can scheme, can’t she?

9 & 10

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: CREATORS FEST

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center Coffee Series Concert: May 9, 11am

You might have noticed how the Louisville Orchestra has attracted a national spotlight for its transformative, trendsetting programming. Maybe you’ve also seen the members of the Creator Corps living and working in your communities, integrating their pathbreaking music into the fabric of the city. So you know this is no ordinary concert of contemporary music — this is what happens when committed people (including you!) come together to forge a future where creativity and connection matter. Will the orchestra’s next Grammy be minted here? Be in the room when Andrew Norman’s hyper-kinetic piano concerto Split is recorded live.

13-18

BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE: SHUCKED

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

SHUCKED is the Tony Award®–winning musical comedy The Wall Street Journal calls “flat out hilarious!” And nobody knows funny like economists. Featuring a book by Tony Award

Lorna Courtney and the cast of & Juliet.
Photo by Matthew Murphy

winner Robert Horn (Tootsie), a score by the Grammy® Award–winning songwriting team of Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally (Kacey Musgraves’ “Follow Your Arrow”), and directed by Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien (Hairspray), this corn-fed, corn-bred American musical is sure to satisfy your appetite for great musical theater.

29-AUG 3

BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE: THE WIZ

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

This groundbreaking twist on The Wizard of Oz changed the face of Broadway — from its iconic score packed with soul, gospel, rock, and fingersnapping 70s funk to its stirring tale of Dorothy’s journey to find her place in a contemporary world. Audiences get to enjoy the epic grooves of such beloved, timeless hits as “Ease on Down the Road,” which became the show’s break-out single, and the bona fide classic “Home” in this spectacular revival.

PRIVILEGE NOT ART RIGHT A IS A

GROUP INFORMATION

502-561-1003

Louisville.Broadway.com

Broadway in Louisville brings the best of Broadway theater to the heart of Kentucky. Hosting a variety of acclaimed shows and musicals, they bring a vibrant cultural experience to Whitney Hall at the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts for audiences of all ages. Broadway in Louisville combines top-tier performances with local charm, making them a cornerstone of the city’s arts scene.

502-587-8681

LouisvilleOrchestra.org

This has always been an orchestra of innovation, creativity and excellence. Today, LO is changing the idea of what a 21st century orchestra can be. Led by Emmy-winning Music Director, Teddy Abrams, this season brings audiences the classics as well as adaptations of new age music into orchestral masterpieces.

502-583-2623

LouisvilleBallet.org

Louisville Ballet makes moving art that respects tradition, encourages innovation, and fosters life-long learning. We inspire connection, conversation and a profound sense of community, by striving for bold collaborations, by nurturing the next generation of artists, by celebrating diversity, and by creating access for all.

502-584-4500

KYOpera.org

Kentucky Opera, founded in 1952, is a renowned performing arts organization based in Louisville. It produces classic and contemporary opera works, showcasing talented local and international artists. The company aims to enrich the community through high-quality productions, education, and outreach programs. With a focus on artistic excellence, Kentucky Opera creates immersive experiences that celebrate the power and beauty of opera.

502-574-9900

KYShakespeare.com

Entering its 64th season, the Kentucky Shakespeare Festival in Central Park is the longestrunning free, non-ticketed Shakespeare festival in the United States. Grounded in the works of Shakespeare, they enrich communities through accessible, inclusive, professional theatre experiences that educate, inspire, and entertain diverse audiences.

502-584-7777

KentuckyPerformingArts.org

Kentucky Performing Arts, formerly known as The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts, is a premier cultural institution in Louisville. It hosts a wide range of performances, including theater, music, dance, and more. Dedicated to fostering the arts, the center provides diverse programming, educational initiatives, and community engagement. Its state-of-the-art venues attract audiences and artists, enriching the region’s cultural landscape.

812-288-8281 DerbyDinner.com

Currently in their 50th season, Derby Dinner Playhouse is noted for their professional productions of Broadway musicals and lighthearted comedies. Each dinner theatre production comes alive with the magic of lights, costumes, a live orchestra, and a stage full of professional performers. This seasons line-up includes Jersey Boys (Aug./Sept.), Dracula (Oct./Nov.), A Wonderful Life (Nov./Dec.), Singin’ In the Rain (April/May) and more.

502-459-0660

JewishLouisville.org

CenterStage at the Trager Family JCC is Kentucky’s oldest community theater company with a mission to transform lives, empower individuals through the exploration of character and to share stories through live theater. The season runs from August through May and offers diverse, high-quality productions with a blend of classic and contemporary performances. This season’s line-up includes The Music Man, Bent, and You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown.

VENUES IN THE ‘VILLE

THE KENTUCKY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

Whitney Hall, Bomhard Theater, MeX Theater

501 W. Main St., Louisville 502-584-7777

KentuckyPerformingArts.org

The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts is the premier live entertainment venue in Louisville. Home to three theaters varying in size and use, each showcasing a diverse array of performances that cater to all tastes. The venue is also home to Broadway in Louisville, Louisville Orchestra, Louisville Ballet and touring shows and special events throughout the year. The stunning architecture and state-of-the-art facilities enhance every performance, making it a must-visit destination for arts enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of theater, music, or dance, The Kentucky Center offers a vibrant and dynamic arts scene that enriches the community and celebrates creativity.

THE BROWN THEATRE

315 W. Broadway, Louisville 502-584-7777

KentuckyPerformingArts.org

The Brown Theatre is a historic gem of Louisville. Built in 1925, the theater offers an exquisite backdrop for a variety of performances. Renowned for its stunning architecture and exceptional acoustics, this 1,400-seat venue has been a cornerstone of Louisville’s cultural scene for nearly a century. Hosting concerts from Kentucky Opera and an eclectic mix of other live performances including concerts, jazz performances, and other national touring acts, there is always something exciting happening on the stage. With its elegant design and rich history, the Brown Theatre provides an immersive experience that combines the charm of a bygone era with world-class entertainment for all.

THE LOUISVILLE PALACE

625 S. Fourth St., Louisville 502-583-4555

LouisvillePalace.com

The Louisville Palace is a stunning, historic theater in Downtown Louisville, renowned for its opulent, Spanish Baroque architecture and intricate interior design. Opened in 1928, the Palace features a grand auditorium with a starry night ceiling and lavish details. It is considered by many to be the best indoor music venue in the region and hosts a diverse array of events, including concerts, film screenings, and live performances. The venue features a large atrium lobby area with a balcony on the second floor overlooking the main floor gathering space. In addition, each floor offers a large bar area offering cocktails, wines, beers and more, as well as a VIP lounge for the ultimate pre-concert hang out area. Some of the biggest names in music have played this stage and new concerts are announced regularly, so keep an eye on their web-site for the latest line-ups.

DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE

525 Marriott Drive Clarksville, IN 812-288-8281

DerbyDinner.com

Derby Dinner Playhouse, located in Clarksville, Indiana, just across the river from Louisville, is a popular dinner theater offering a unique entertainment experience. Established in 1974, it combines pre-show meals and drinks without ever missing the show. The playhouse hosts various live performances, ranging from musicals and comedies to children’s theater and more. Known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere, Derby Dinner Playhouse is a cherished venue for both locals and visitors.

OLD FORESTER’S PARISTOWN HALL

724 Brent St., Louisville 502-584-7777

KentuckyPerformingArts.org

Paristown Hall is a modern, vibrant music and event venue in Louisville’s historic Paristown neighborhood. Opened in 2019, it offers an intimate space with state-of-the-art sound and lighting, perfect for concerts, cultural events, and community gatherings. With its industrialchic design and outdoor areas, Paristown Hall has quickly become a key destination for live entertainment in the city.

OTHER VENUES WE LOVE:

Headliner’s Music Hall headlinerslouisville.com

Iroqouis Amphitheater iroquoisamphitheater.com

KFC YUM! Center kfcyumcenter.com

Mercury Ballroom mercuryballroom.com

New Albany Riverfront Auditorium cityofnewalbany.com

Ricky B’s Club Cafe facebook.com/rbclubcafe

Stevie Ray’s Blues Bar stevieraysbluesbar.com

The Mellwood Tavern themellwoodtavern.com

Whirling Tiger thewhirlingtiger.com

Zanzabar zanzabarlouisville.com

As the publishers of the official playbills and performance guides for Broadway in Louisville, Kentucky Shakespeare and other groups, as well as Audience Magazine, our goal is to promote and help raise awareness of live theater performances, concerts, festivals and more in Louisville.

Advertising with Audience allows companies to align their brands with arts and entertainment enthusiasts in Louisville as well as show their support for live theater performances, concerts, festivals and more in the community.

For more information, call Audience publisher, Doug Dreisbach, at 502-212-2066 or email ddreisbach@theaudiencegroup.com.

TAH Kentucky Gift Cards are perfect gift ideas for any occasion for anyone on your gift list. Gift cards can be used at all Kentucky State Resort Parks (except Breaks Interstate Park), the Kentucky Artisan Center, the Kentucky Horse Park and the Kentucky Historical Society’s 1792 Store. Use gift cards to purchase anything from meals to lodging or gift shop items.

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