Hands on.
We are proud to support the Arts.
Since 1904, Stock Yards Bank & Trust has been a cornerstone of the Louisville community. Our team is dedicated to supporting the people and businesses of this city through thick and thin. We provide the resources and experience of a national bank, with the knowledge, familiarity, and trust that can only come from a hometown bank.
A Trusted Partner Since 1904
Member FDIC
MUSIC TO OUR EARS
Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything.”
– Plato
Amy Higgs Managing Editor
G. Douglas Dreisbach Publisher
Well folks, what was possibly the longest month in the history of the world is finally over. If we never see ice and snow again, it will be too soon! Fortunately, toward the end of January, we got a hint of spring weather. That was enough to get us excited about 2025 concerts and music festivals.
While it will be a few more months before we can put on shorts and drag our camping chairs and coolers out of the garage, it doesn’t hurt to start dreaming about upcoming spring and summer shows. In this issue of Audience Magazine, we’re pleased to share two big festival lineup announcements — Bourbon & Beyond in Louisville and Railbird in Lexington. Learn more on pages 20 and 16, respectively.
Not only that, the team behind B&B and Louder than Life, Danny Wimmer Presents, has struck up a local partnership that will bring even more great music to Louisville year-round. Check out our story on page 19
To continue with an issue full of big-deal announcements, Kentucky Performing Arts has shared some exciting news about a new high school awards program that is fostering and celebrating the next generation of performing artists. Read all about it on page 12
As always, we’re proud to be your go-to source for the latest and greatest arts and entertainment calendar. Read our featured picks in the Event Outlook on page 7
Thank you to our generous advertisers for their ongoing support of the performing arts in Louisville. Without them, we couldn’t bring you news about the latest concerts, theater, comedy and other arts performances every month.
Festival season will be here before you know it, so get your tickets now.
Keep on dancing,
Amy & Doug
CELEBRATING THE ARTS A Note From Gov. Beshear
19
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: New Series at Iroquois Park
7 | EVENT OUTLOOK
Check out our top picks for upcoming arts and entertainment events in Louisville.
Audience Friends & Fans weigh in on their favorite music 5
KENTUCKY PERFORMING ARTS: Spotlight on Excellence
16
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Railbird Returns
20
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Bourbon is Back, Baby!
SPEED ART MUSEUM: Engaging Communities Through Storytelling 12
25
22 | FRIENDS & FANS
24 | PERFORMANCE PREVIEW
Broadway in Louisville presents Peter Pan
TICKET GIVEAWAYS SPECIAL INVITES SHOW PREVIEWS
Your source for the arts and entertainment in Louisville and surrounding areas.
PUBLISHER
The Audience Group, Inc.
G. Douglas Dreisbach
MANAGING EDITOR
Amy Higgs
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Rhonda Mefford
SALES & MARKETING
G. Douglas Dreisbach
CONTRIBUTORS
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear
Kentucky Performing Arts
TO READ CURRENT AND PREVIOUS AUDIENCE PLAYBILLS AND PERFORMANCE GUIDES, GO TO ISSUU.COM/AUDIENCE502.
On the Cover: Dont miss Sturgill Simpson Sept.13 at Bourbon & Beyond. Photo by Sterling Munksgard/ Shutterstock. Read more on page 20
GOT AN ARTICLE IDEA?
Audience Magazine is a platform for the arts in Louisville. If you have an article idea or something you think we should cover, email ahiggs@theaudiencegroup.com
© Copyright 2025. The Audience Group, Inc. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.
Audience® Magazine is published by The Audience Group, Inc. 136 St. Matthews Avenue #300 Louisville, KY 40207 502.212.5177 | Audience502.com
Adventure Awaits in
CELEBRATING the ARTS
A Note From Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear
STRETCHING from east to west to right here in Louisville and beyond, our New Kentucky Home is full of rich arts and culture. Whether you seek communities with a vibrant arts scene or want to experience the areas that shaped some of your favorite Kentuckians, like Loretta Lynn, Jack Harlow, Crystal Wilkinson, Silas House, Tyler Childers, and others, you’ll find it’s easy to be inspired in Kentucky.
Kentucky’s thriving $6.5 billion arts industry contributes to our $13.8 billion tourism industry, which has celebrated two backto-back record-breaking years — and we fully expect 2024 to beat those numbers. We’ve shown folks across the globe just how special our home is. We’re thrilled you are joining the 79 million visitors we saw last year to explore the rich heritage that makes our beloved traditions so unique, while also discovering the unexpected surprises that are making our future so bright.
Explore the river town of Paducah in Western Kentucky, one of nine UNESCO Creative Cities in the United States, full of creative experiences like the National Quilt Museum. Take in a Broadway show or hear the Louisville Orchestra at The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts here in Louisville or see the Lexington Philharmonic perform in the Horse Capital of the World. Shop for Kentucky goods at the Berea Artisan Market, and don’t miss out on the chance to hear live music that has shaped our culture from the Appalachian Mountains to the Ohio River.
These are the experiences we’re proud of in Kentucky. Britainy and I are big fans of the arts, and our kids are, too. We are grateful our home has so many arts-filled experiences for families like ours, because art is transformative. It has the power to open our hearts and minds, bringing us joy, comfort, and inspiration. That is why we not only celebrate and honor the arts but also support and expand them through initiatives like the Team Kentucky Gallery in the Capitol, which hosts exhibits featuring works by Kentucky artists, showcasing the beauty and diversity of our commonwealth.
And no matter where your trip leads you, you’ll quickly find it’s the kindness and warm hospitality of our people — including the more than 50,000 Kentuckians working in our arts industry — that will make your experience so memorable.
With the year ahead full of amazing performances, exhibits, and so much more, I invite you to enjoy all the wonderful experiences our New Kentucky Home has to offer. We know the future we are building is brighter than ever, and we appreciate you being a part of it.
Gov. Andy Beshear
SPRING IS ALMOST HERE…
SAVE THE DATE for GREAT EVENTS!
Louisville’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene continues to deliver a premium lineup of concerts, theater productions, and other events you won’t want to miss. From legendary musicians gracing local stages to groundbreaking performances at The Kentucky Center, the city is buzzing with creative energy.
Whether you're looking to catch a sold-out arena show, an intimate club performance, or a cutting-edge theatrical production, there’s something for everyone. We hope you get a chance to check out some of our top recommendations for upcoming arts and entertainment opportunities in Louisville and surrounding markets!
For a full list of performing arts and entertainment events in Louisville, check out our event calendar at Audience502.com.
FEBRUARY
NOW THROUGH MARCH 2
Gee Horton: Be Home Before the Streetlights
KMAC Museum
Chapter 3, Be Home Before the Streetlights is the third installment in a trilogy of exhibitions by Louisville-born, Cincinnatibased artist Gee Horton. After presenting Chapters 1 and 2 in Cincinnati, Chapter 3 marks Horton’s first time showing in his hometown as well as his first solo museum exhibition. Centering on moments from his past alongside present-day scenes inspired by his family in Louisville, his images, while deeply personal to his own experiences, also embody a universal quest for grace, rehabilitation, peace, and reconciliation.
NOW THROUGH MARCH 2
Tiffany Calvert: The Tulips are Too Excitable
KMAC Museum
At the foundation of Tiffany Calvert’s work is a disruption of the binary — between craft and new media, the technology of the past and present, the physical and the incorporeal. Using Dutch still-life tradition both as inspiration and data, Calvert’s work presents questions related to the screen space, the role of technology within craft, and the perceived incompatibility between the latter.
13
The Magic of Motown
The Kentucky Center, Bomhard Theater
The show’s pitch perfect harmonies, dynamic choreography, and costuming
perfectly capture the sights and sound of Motown. You don’t want to miss a journey through Motown's best, including: The Temptations, The Jackson Five, Diana Ross & The Supremes, The Four Tops, Aretha Franklin, Smokey Robinson, and more!
14 & 15
Louisville Orchestra
Ravel’s Romantic Reverie
The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall
Prepare for a Valentine’s Day celebration with Ravel’s Romantic Reverie and enjoy the baton of conductor Ken David Masur, joined by the acclaimed pianist Louis Lortie. This concert promises to be an enchanting experience for you and your loved ones featuring beautiful, romantic pieces performed exquisitely by your Louisville Orchestra.
AUDIENCE EVENT OUTLOOK
14
Trae Crowder
Comedy
The Kentucky Center, Bomhard Theater
Trae Crowder first gained international attention (or notoriety depending on your politics) in 2016 for his hugely viral series of “Liberal Redneck” comedic “porch rant” videos. Since then, Trae has written a best-selling book, “The Liberal Redneck Manifesto: Draggin Dixie Outta The Dark,” toured the country thrice over playing sold out theatre shows under the WellRED Comedy Tour banner, appeared on “Real Time with Bill Maher” (HBO),
“Nightline” (ABC), “The View,” “Last Word with Lawrence O'Donnell” (MSNBC), NPR, WTF with Marc Maron, MTV, CNN, Huffington Post and in the Veronica Mars reboot, as “Chattanooga Charlie,” among many others.
15
Back 2 Mac: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac Headliners Music Hall
Back 2 Mac is a Louisville-based tribute band dedicated to faithfully recreating the music of Fleetwood Mac. Their performances span hits from the Buckingham/ Nicks/ McVie era, as well as early classics like Peter Green's "Black Magic Woman."
18 – MARCH 2
Broadway in Louisville
Moulin Rouge!
The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall Pop the champagne, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is the winner of 10 Tony Awards — including Best Musical. Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eye-popping excess, of glitz, grandeur, and glory! A world where Bohemians and
aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment. Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza. Directed by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers, Moulin Rouge!
The Musical is a theatrical celebration of truth, beauty, freedom, and — above all — love.
19 – MAR 30
Urinetown The Musical Derby Dinner Playhouse
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!
20, 22, 23, 27 – MAR 1, 2, 6, 8
CenterStage
Disney’s High School Musical
The Trager Family JCC
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
Eats
The restaurants below are certified and recommended by Audience as premium places for pre-show dinner, drinks or mingling. Let them know we sent you!
893-2062
894-8686
Check out our full list of preferred restaurants at Audience502.com.
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.
21
After Hours @ The Speed Speed Art Museum
Enjoy late hours at the Speed Art Museum with food and a cash beverage bar from Marigold Catering as well as other sweet treats and delectable bites. Taking place every third Friday, the Museum will be open until 10 p.m. to experience the Speed “after hours” as you’ve never experienced it before.
22
Marc Maron: All In Comedy
The Kentucky Center, Bomhard Theater
Marc Maron has released five hit standup comedy specials throughout his career. His most recent, “From Bleak to Dark” premiered on HBO February 11, 2023, and received rave reviews from critics and fans alike. Maron’s other specials include “End Times Fun" (2020) on Netflix, which was nominated for a 2021 Critics’ Choice Award, “Marc Maron: Too Real"(2017), “Moe Later” (2015) on Epix, and “Thinky Pain” (2013).
22 Ward Davis
Outlaw Country Zanzabar
Ward Davis is a country singer-songwriter known for his gritty, heartfelt lyrics and traditional sound. Drawing inspiration from outlaw country, Davis has written songs for stars like Willie Nelson and released acclaimed albums like “Black Cats and Crows.”
23
American Aquarium
Alt-Country
Headliners Music Hall
American Aquarium is an alt-country band blending raw storytelling with heartland rock and Southern twang. Led by BJ Barham, their music explores love, loss, and resilience, often reflecting blue-collar struggles. Their sound merges introspective lyrics with anthemic, rootsdriven instrumentation.
25
Tall Tall Trees
Folk/Indie/Bluegrass Zanzabar
Tall Tall Trees is the musical project of banjo innovator Mike Savino, blending elements of folk, indie, and experimental music. Known for his creative use of the banjo, looping, and effects, his sound offers a vibrant mix of melodic storytelling and genredefying instrumentation.
28
Wood Box Heroes w. Aaron Bibelhauser Bluegrass/Country/Blues
Headliners Music Hall
Wood Box Heroes is an acoustic supergroup blending bluegrass, country, blues, and jazz influences. Featuring Barry Bales, Jenee Fleenor, Josh Martin, and Matt Menefee, their music showcases virtuosic instrumentation, rich harmonies, and dynamic storytelling, delivering a fresh take on roots music.
MARCH 1
Tailspin Ale Fest: Louisville’s Winter Warmer
Bowman Field
Don’t miss the largest beer festival in the region with over 50 breweries sampling more than 250 beers. Guests receive a tasting cup upon entry, which they
use to visit the various beer stations for tastings throughout the day. Referred to as “Louisville’s Winter Warmer” this event has turned into a transition into spring and regularly entertains thousands of ale enthusiasts with live music, a silent disco, food trucks and more.
2
Mania: The ABBA Tribute
Brown Theatre
Mania: The ABBA Tribute has successfully toured every continent in the world, playing over 3,000 live concerts in over 35 countries. Recent highlights included a second run in London’s West End where the show performed for a month in the iconic Shaftesbury Theatre, London in May 2021. The show also enjoyed an 80-date sell-out U.S.A. national tour in 2022/2023. Mania continues in its quest to bring the music of the Swedish “Supergroup” to millions of fans, old and new!
7 & 8
Louisville Orchestra
Stravinsky’s Firebird
The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall
Prepare to be transported to a world of enchantment and wonder with Stravinsky’s “Firebird” on March 8 at Whitney Hall. Under the baton of conductor Joseph Young, this concert promises a mesmerizing musical journey.
8
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Bardstown Road
The Ancient Order of Hibernians
St. Patrick’s Day Parade has become a longstanding tradition and somewhat of a passage to spring. Revelers line Bardstown Road from Baxter Avenue to the Mid City Mall as float hosts toss candy, beads, and more to eager fans. Get there early, stay late!
12
Mandy Patinkin in Concert: Being Alive
Brown Theatre
Mandy Patinkin in Concert: Being Alive presents the acclaimed actor / singer / storyteller in his most electrifying role:
concert performer. “Mandy Patinkin is in the business of showstopping,” raves
The New Yorker, and that’s exactly what he does in this powerful, passionate evening of song. Being Alive is a marriage of many of Mandy’s favorite Broadway and classic American tunes, along with selections from his newest recordings on Nonesuch Records, Mandy Patinkin Diary January 2018 and Mandy Patinkin Diary April/May 2018. From Randy Newman to Stephen Sondheim, from Harry Chapin to Rufus Wainwright, Mandy Patinkin takes you on a dazzling musical journey you’ll never forget.
15
The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall
Rodney Carrington is a multi-talented comedian, actor, singer and writer
playing sold-out shows around the world as one of the top 10 highest-grossing touring comedians for the past two decades. As a platinum-recording artist, Rodney has recorded eight major record label comedy albums, followed by three albums on his own record label, and incorporates his songs and comedy for a night of fun and laughs.
15, 22 & 29
StageOne Family Theatre
Lilly and the Pirates
The Kentucky Center, Bomhard Theater
This is the story of Lilly, a 10-year-old worrywart. To keep her concerns at bay, she diligently and fervently lists them in a worry book. Her globe-trotting scientistparents don’t worry about anything. When they learn of a rare sighting of the frangipani fruit fly, they set sail for the fabled Shipwreck Islands. But when the news comes that her parents are shipwrecked, Lilly must overcome her fears and outsmart a bunch of treasurehungry pirates to save them.
15 Houseplant
Jam band/Funk
Headliners Music Hall
Houseplant is a Louisville-based jam band that blends funk, and psychedelic elements to create dynamic, improvisational performances. Their debut EP, “Vibrations of Night,” showcases their groovy, cosmic sound.
16
Paul Taylor Dance Company
Choreographed Dance Brown Theatre
The genesis of the Paul Taylor Dance Company occurred on May 30, 1954, in Manhattan, when dancemaker Paul Taylor first presented his choreography
Rodney Carrington Comedy
with five other dancers on the Lower East Side. That performance marked the beginning of 64 years of unrivaled creativity, and in the decades that followed, Taylor became a cultural icon and one of American history’s most celebrated artists, and was part of the pantheon that created American modern dance. Leading the company that bears his name until his death in 2018, Taylor molded it into one of the preeminent performing ensembles in the world.
20
Donavon Frankenreiter:
The Get Outta Your Mind Tour
Acoustic Rock/Blues
Headliners Music Hall
Donavon Frankenreiter is a singersongwriter and former professional surfer known for his laid-back, beachy, folk-rock sound. Blending elements of acoustic rock, soul, and blues, his music features warm melodies, smooth vocals, and feelgood vibes, often drawing comparisons to Jack Johnson’s mellow, sun-soaked style.
21
Johnnyswim:
When the World is Over Tour
Folk/Pop/Blues
Brown Theatre
Composed of the magnetic duo Abner Ramirez and Amanda Sudano Ramirez, these two are effortlessly enthralling audiences with their heartfelt melodies, intertwining personal experiences, and imaginative tales. Their music is a vibrant tapestry woven with memories, emotions, and dreams, blending singersongwriter tradition with alternative flair, rock vigor, and pop ambition. Through extensive touring, they've cultivated a devoted fanbase worldwide, connecting deeply with listeners.
22 Louisville Orchestra
A Boy Band Symphony
The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall
Relive the magic of the ’90s and 2000s with a symphonic tribute to the greatest
boy band hits, featuring music from NSYNC, 98 Degrees, and O-Town.
23
Nulu Bock Fest & Wurst Fest 2024 Market Street in Nulu
The NuLu Bock Fest & Wurst Fest returns for the seventh year, and we can’t wait! This street festival spanning 4 blocks within the NuLu Neighborhood features the Jefferson County Farm Bureau adult and baby goat races, locally crafted beer, live music, kids activities, local vendors and more! NuLu is coincidentally home to two goat named alleys, Nanny Goat Strut and Billy Goat Strut, making it a fitting place for Louisville’s largest bock beer festival. Local breweries will serve up their 2024 bock beers, along with other selections. There will also be craft cocktails and mixed drinks for sale. Don’t miss a great day of locally brewed bock beers and enjoy the famous goat races on Market Street in a fun and safe atmosphere!
25-30
Broadway in Louisville
Peter Pan
The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall
Broadway in Louisville welcomes the timeless tale of Peter Pan in a magical production that’s sure to delight audiences of all ages. This enchanting musical follows the adventures of Peter, the boy who refuses to grow up, as he whisks Wendy, John, and Michael Darling away to Neverland. Together, they encounter mischievous Lost Boys, feisty pirates led by the infamous Captain Hook, and even a bit of fairy dust from Tinker Bell.
28 Shadowgrass
Bluegrass/Jam
Zanzabar
Shadowgrass is a young, dynamic bluegrass band rooted in traditional Appalachian music while incorporating modern influences. Known for their virtuosic musicianship and energetic performances, they blend classic bluegrass with contemporary flair, showcasing a fresh take on the genre that appeals to audiences of all ages.
29 – JUNE 20
Speed Art Museum
Brilliant Exiles: American Women in Paris, 1900-1939
During the early twentieth century, Paris was the destination of choice for talented and independent American women determined to move beyond the limitations that restricted them at home. Drawn by a strong desire for independence, they crossed the Atlantic to pursue personal and professional ambitions in a city viewed as the epicenter of modernity. Brilliant Exiles: American Women in Paris, 1900-1939 recaptures the experiences of these unorthodox women who found in Paris the freedom to blaze new trails in a variety of fields, including art, literature, design, publishing, music, fashion, journalism, theater, and dance.
APRIL
25
Dwight Yoakam
Classic Country
Iroquois Ampitheater
Dwight Yoakam is a country music icon known for his distinctive honky-tonk sound and electrifying stage presence. Blending traditional country with rock influences, he revitalized the genre with hits like “Guitars, Cadillacs” and “Fast as You.” With his signature twang, tight jeans, and heartfelt lyrics, Yoakam continues to captivate audiences, embodying the spirit of authentic, modern country music.
Know of a great concert, performance, or arts event we should share? Email the details to ddreisbach@theaudiencegroup.com.
SPOTLIGHT on EXCELLENCE
KPA UNVEILS INAUGURAL KPA BRADLEY AWARDS, A CELEBRATION OF
HIGH SCHOOL THEATER
by Kentucky Performing Arts
THE stage is set for an electrifying celebration of high school musical theater as Kentucky Performing Arts (KPA) proudly presents the inaugural KPA Bradley Awards. Sixteen high schools from 10 counties in Kentucky and Southern Indiana have been selected to participate in this prestigious event, which will take place on June 1, 2025, at The Kentucky Center.
An official regional partner of the National High School Musical Theatre Awards (NHSMTA), also known as The Jimmy Awards, the KPA Bradley Awards aim to elevate young talent, offering students a platform to showcase their skills and build a sense of community among the region’s theater programs.
Presented in collaboration with the Louisville Theatrical Association, this initiative mirrors KPA’s commitment to fostering artistic growth, much like the renowned Governor’s School for the Arts.
The KPA Bradley Awards are named in honor of Bradley Broecker, whose central role in bringing touring Broadway shows to Kentuckiana has made an immeasurable impact on the region’s vibrancy.
Awards will be presented across multiple categories, recognizing excellence in acting, design, technical execution, and community engagement. The two students awarded Best Actor and Best Actress in a Leading Role will earn the opportunity of a lifetime — an all-expenses-paid trip to New York City, where they will participate in the 2025 Jimmy Awards. There, they will receive 10 days of private coaching, master classes, and rehearsals with Broadway professionals, culminating in a dazzling national awards ceremony at the iconic Minskoff Theatre.
New Albany Theater Arts' production of Metamorphosis.
The
two students awarded Best Actor and Best Actress in a Leading Role will earn the opportunity of a lifetime — an all-expenses-paid trip to New York City... They will receive 10 days of private coaching, master classes, and rehearsals with Broadway professionals..."
“We are ecstatic to announce the schools participating in the inaugural KPA Bradley Awards,” says Kim Baker, KPA President and CEO. “This program is about more than accolades; it’s about bringing together young artists, celebrating their passion, and nurturing the future of theatre in our region.”
Each school’s musical production will be evaluated by a panel of three adjudicators, with nominations spanning categories such as Best Overall Musical Production, Outstanding Ensemble Performance, Outstanding Technical Execution, and more. Students identifying as non-binary or gender-fluid will have the option to choose the category in which they wish to be adjudicated.
MEET THE CREATIVE TEAM
KPA has assembled a powerhouse creative team to lead the inaugural awards ceremony, bringing together some of Kentucky’s finest theatrical talents:
Austin Vahle (Staging Director): A seasoned theater educator, director, and stage manager, Vahle has worked with numerous regional and professional theater organizations. Recognized by the Tony Awards and Carnegie Mellon University for Excellence in Theatre Education, he currently teaches theater in Fayette County Public Schools.
Jessica Greene (Music Director): A dynamic musical director and performer, Greene has collaborated with various theater companies and schools throughout Central Kentucky. With degrees in Vocal Music Education and Conducting, she now supports arts education through the Kentucky Department of Education.
Lydia Austin (Choreographer): With over two decades of experience in dance education, Austin specializes in modern, ballet, and jazz choreography. A Lexington native, she is passionate about bringing creativity and movement to the inaugural Bradley Awards stage.
COLLABORATION & IMPACT OF THE AWARDS
Beyond recognizing talent, the KPA Bradley Awards serve as a unifying force for the region’s high school theater programs. The initiative underscores the value of the performing arts in shaping young lives, fostering creativity, and building lifelong skills.
PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS:
• Bryan Station High School
• Daviess County High School
• Youth Performing Arts School (at duPont Manual High School)
• Greenwood High School
• John Hardin High School
• Lafayette High School
As a cornerstone of Kentucky’s cultural landscape, Kentucky Performing Arts (KPA) is dedicated to connecting and inspiring communities through the arts. With a substantial economic impact of $26.3 million annually, KPA brings world-class performances to the state, supports arts education, and strengthens local artistic endeavors. Its three primary venues in Louisville include The Kentucky Center, The Brown Theatre, and Old Forester’s Paristown Hall.
The Jimmy Awards/The National High School Musical Theatre Awards (NHSMTA) program impacts approximately 150,000 students who participate in 55 regional high school musical theatre competitions sponsored by presenters of touring Broadway productions throughout the United States.
Named for Broadway impresario James M. Nederlander, the program has been the catalyst for more than $6 million in educational scholarships since its launch in 2009. Presented by The Broadway League Foundation Inc., the NHSMTA invites two nominees from each local regional ceremony to New York City for a rigorous theater intensive that includes coaching sessions, training, and rehearsals led by some of Broadway’s most accomplished professionals. Nominees will spend 10 days in New York City, and their experience will culminate in an extraordinary talent showcase performed live in front of an audience on a Broadway stage. For more information, please visit www.JimmyAwards.com
The Louisville Theatrical Association, founded in 1938, is a civic, not-for-profit organization with a volunteer board of directors. LTA’s mission is to sustain the Broadway Series as a dynamic and primary source of performing arts entertainment; to maintain the series as a resource to enhance the quality of other arts activities in the Louisville area; to assist in the preservation of historic theatre properties; and to extend community participation in the arts through programs of education.
With the launch of the KPA Bradley Awards, Kentucky Performing Arts is set to shine a well-deserved spotlight on the next generation of theatrical stars, fostering talent, passion, and a love for the stage that will resonate for years to come.
For more information on the KPA Bradley Awards, visit KentuckyPerformingArts.org.
• Franklin County High School
• McCracken County High School
• Kentucky Country Day School
• Randall K. Cooper High School
• Ballard High School
• Floyd Central High School
• Sacred Heart Academy/Sacred Heart School for the Arts
• New Albany High School
• Mercer County Senior High School
• Paul Laurence Dunbar High School
New Albany Theater Arts' production of Seussical The Musical
RAILBIRD RETURNS
RAILBIRD MUSIC FESTIVAL MARKS FIVE YEARS IN LEXINGTON
May 31 - June 1, 2025
THE popular Railbird Music Festival is set to return to The Infield at Red Mile Race Course in Lexington May 31 and June 1 with another great lineup for what will be a great weekend of music and more.
Jelly Roll and Lainey Wilson will headline the two-night festival that includes over 30 artists across three stages. Featured acts include The Red Clay Strays, Ryan Bingham, Gavin Adcock, Cody Jinks, Shaboozey, Luke Grimes, and Blackberry Smoke.
This will be the fifth year for the festival, which was originally held in 2019 at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington. Railbird took a hiatus in 2020 and returned in 2021 to a stellar lineup that included Dave Matthews Band and Jason Isbell. Organizers took another break in 2022 to re-invent the festival to include more concessions, attendee experiences, restrooms, and more. It returned in 2023 to rave reviews, warranting another great weekend in 2024 that featured headliners
Chris Stapleton, The Red Clay Strays, and Tyler Childers.
Set against the backdrop of an historic horse-racing track, the Railbird Festival will also feature curated experiences that celebrate the spirit of Kentucky, including local culinary offerings and bourbon tastings, making it a must-attend event for those seeking
a comprehensive celebration of Kentucky's music and culture.
The festival continues to deliver a great weekend year after year that’s filled with exceptional music, cultural experiences, and the unique ambiance of Lexington, making it a highlight on the calendar for any music enthusiast.
For more information and tickets, visit RailbirdFest.com.
EVENTS WE LOVE
PHOTO BY TAYLOR REGULSKI FOR RAILBIRD 2024
Turnpike Troubadours
Photo by Nathan Zucker for Railbird 2024
EVENTS WE LOVE
NEW SERIES at IROQUOIS PARK
DANNY WIMMER & IROQUOIS AMPHITHEATER
PARTNER FOR MUSIC & EVENTS
DANNY Wimmer Presents, the promoter and creator of Bourbon & Beyond, Louder than Life, and other mega music festivals around the country, recently announced a multi-year partnership with Iroquois Amphitheater to bring an expanded selection of events to the iconic centerpiece of Iroquois Park in Louisville.
The collaboration launches with a fresh new logo, website, and branding, ushering in a dynamic lineup starting this spring that will feature an increased mix of new concerts and community events alongside cherished favorites like “Iroquois Amphitheater’s Hollywood Classics Under The Stars” free movie series and the Jack O’ Lantern Spectacular, with additional concerts and special events to be unveiled in the coming weeks and months.
The Iroquois Amphitheater is a 2,400-seat open-air venue nestled within the scenic Iroquois Park. Originally built in 1938 as part of the Works Progress Administration (WPA), the amphitheater has been a staple of Louisville’s cultural scene for decades. It was initially designed for community performances and events, but over the years, it has evolved into one of the city’s premier locations for live music and entertainment, blending natural beauty with state-of-the-art sound and lighting.
The spring and summer schedule already looks impressive, featuring great concerts, movie nights, and more.
UPCOMING EVENTS AT IROQUOIS:
• April 21 & 22 – Cake
• April 25 – Dwight Yoakam
• May 8 - Shine On: Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular
• May 9 - Taylor Shines: Laser Spectacular
• May 10 – Bonnie Raitt
• May 13 – Pulp Fiction (Free Movie Night)
• May 17 – Wilco
• May 20 – Caddyshack (Free Movie Night)
• May 27 – Dr. Strangelove (Free Movie Night)
• May 30 – Wallows
• June 28 – Louisville Philharmonia
• July 29 – Barenaked Ladies
• August 1 & 2 – Louisville Jazz Festival
• August 28 - Tom Keifer & L.A. Guns
• September 5 – Three Dog Night & Little River Band
• September 23 – Melissa Etheridge & Indigo Girls
For a full list of concerts and events or to buy tickets, visit at IroquoisAmphitheater.com
Iroquois Park Amphitheater
BOURBON IS BACK, BABY!
BOURBON & BEYOND MUSIC FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES 2025 LINEUP
September 11 - 14, 2025
BOURBON & Beyond has unveiled another thrilling roster of musical artists and bourbon experiences for its 2025 festival. Held September 11 to 14 at Highlands Festival Grounds at the Kentucky Exposition Center, this highly anticipated weekend offers a fantastic blend of world-class music, top-tier bourbon, and gourmet food, and brings in tens of thousands of fans each year.
The 2025 lineup for “The World’s Largest Bourbon & Music Festival” features an eclectic mix of rock, blues, folk, and country, with top headliners including Sturgill Simpson, Phish, Noah Kahn, The Lumineers, and more.
“Bourbon & Beyond is the best lineup of the year — bringing together the biggest names in rock, Americana, and alt, alongside country icons and breakout artists,” said Danny Wimmer of Danny Wimmer Presents. “It’s a festival that doesn’t just celebrate one sound but the best of all of them, paired with worldclass bourbon, incredible food, and that unmistakable Kentucky vibe. From the start, our vision was to create an experience that blends music, culinary, culture, and community in a way that only Bourbon & Beyond can. The crowds are huge, the energy is unmatched, and every year, we take it up a notch. If you love music, a breathtaking atmosphere, and the best bourbon on the planet: this is the festival to experience.”
Bourbon & Beyond has received widespread acclaim from national media. The 2024 event was named a must-see festival by national media outlets including: Forbes, Garden & Gun, People, Rolling Stone, SPIN, Thrillist, USA Today, US Magazine and more. In addition, Bourbon & Beyond was named 2024 Festival of the Year by leading live entertainment organization IEBA after welcoming a record-setting 210,000 fans over four days, marking the largest music festival in Kentucky history. It has also been nominated as Pollstar “Festival of the Year” for the past two years.
Now in its seventh year, Bourbon & Beyond will feature more than 120 artists performing on five stages during the four-day event, as well as a uniquely immersive festival experience with daily workshops and demonstrations showcasing America’s best chefs and Louisville’s vibrant bourbon and culinary culture on
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS
the festival’s workshop stage for The Bourbon Experience and The Culinary Atelier. Hosted by bourbon expert Chris Blandford, Chef Amanda Freitag, Chef Ed Lee and Chef Chris Santos, the festival’s bourbon tastings and culinary workshops pair world-renowned master distillers and some of the country’s top chefs, with some workshops featuring celebrity guest appearances.
Bourbon & Beyond stands out for its immersive experience, offering more than just music. Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado, a foodie, or a music lover, this festival delivers an incredible atmosphere filled with Southern charm, great vibes, and unforgettable performances. Set in Louisville, the heart of Bourbon Country, it’s a must-visit event for anyone looking to indulge in the best of Kentucky’s culture.
Tickets, camping passes and more lineup information can be found at BourbonandBeyond.com.
Thursday, September 11:
The Lumineers, Alabama Shakes, Cage The Elephant, Pat Benatar, Collective Soul
Friday, September 12:
Phish, Joe Bonamassa, Muscadine Bloodline, Trampled by Turtles, Trombone Shorty, Gavin Degraw, Marc Cohn, 10,000 Maniacs
Saturday, September 13:
Sturgill Simpson, Jack White, Third Eye Blind, Pixies, Ringo Starr and His All-Starr Band, 49 Winchester, Flatland Calvary, Marcy Playground
Sunday, September 14: Noah Kahan, Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats, Blue Traveler, Goo Goo Dolls, Foreigner, Gin Blossoms, Spin Doctors, Leftover Salmon
WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO?
We are excited to catch up with some of our friends and fans of Audience to hear what they are listening to. With so much great new music coming out, we hope you discover a new band or two and catch them at a show soon!
DOUGLAS DREISBACH, 47
Publisher, Audience Magazine
Preferred music genres: Mix of everything from jam bands to outlaw country
Streaming preference: Spotify
Next concert: Ward Davis at Zanzabar
What I am listening to:
1. Charles Wesley Godwin, Country/Americana/Folk
2. Paul Cauthen, Country/Americana/Rock
3. Grateful Dead, Folk/Bluegrass/Rock/Jam Band
AMY HIGGS, 52
Managing Editor, The Audience Group Consultant, Write Is Might Louisville LLC
Preferred music genres: My tastes cover the full spectrum, from Loretta Lynn to Kendrick Lamar, and everything in between.
Streaming preference: Apple Music
Next concert: Alison Krauss & Union Station, April 18, The Louisville Palace
What I am listening to:
1. Sting & The Police, Rock/Pop
2. Prince, R&B/Soul/Rock/Pop
3. Tom Waits, Alternative/Indie/Singer-songwriter
RHONDA MEFFORD, 42
Creative Director, The Audience Group
Owner/Designer, Frosting Creative Co.
Preferred music genres: I like all musical genres, but mostly listen to pop, rock, and grunge
Streaming preference: Amazon Music
Next concert: My husband is the drummer in The Swerve, so I pick The Swerve! Support local music!
What I am listening to:
1. Lady Gaga, Pop
2. Chappell Roan, Pop
3. Everything from the '90s!
HILL HARCOURT, 50
Owner, Ashton Advertising
Preferred music genres: Jam bands to classic rock. Streaming preference: iTunes/Relisten
Next concert: Billy Strings in Nashville
What I am listening to:
1. Greensky Bluegrass, Bluegrass/Jam Band
2. Billy Strings, Bluegrass/Jam Band
3. Phish, Jam Band
GORDON HETTINGER, 55
Realtor, Weichert Realtors
Preferred music genres: Really all over the place... indie, garage, psyche, folk, trad country
Streaming preference: iTunes
Next concert: TBD
What I am listening to:
1. Bob Dylan, Rock/Blues/Folk
2. Guided By Voices, Garage Rock/Indie Rock
3. Billy Childish, Garage Rock/Punk Rock/Blues Rock/Rockabilly
PERFORMANCE PREVIEW
PETER PAN
MARCH 25 - 30, 2025
BROADWAY in Louisville welcomes the timeless tale of Peter Pan in a magical production that’s sure to delight audiences of all ages. This enchanting musical follows the adventures of Peter, the boy who refuses to grow up, as he whisks Wendy, John, and Michael Darling away to Neverland. Together, they encounter mischievous Lost Boys, feisty pirates led by the infamous Captain Hook, and even a bit of fairy dust from Tinker Bell.
The production promises a breathtaking blend of soaring acrobatics, captivating choreography, and a vibrant score that includes classic songs like “I’m Flying” and “I Won’t Grow Up.” The show’s stunning sets and dazzling special effects transport viewers to the fantastical world of Neverland, making it an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Perfect for families, longtime fans of the story, and those new to J.M. Barrie’s beloved tale, Peter Pan offers a heartfelt message about the joy of childhood, the power of imagination, and the courage to embrace life’s adventures. Whether you're a fan of Broadway or looking for an evening filled with wonder and nostalgia, this production is a must-see. Fly to the theater and let Peter Pan remind you that some magic is too extraordinary to leave behind.
For more information on showtimes and tickets, visit louisville.broadway.com.
“I Won’t Grow Up!” Nolan Almeida as Peter Pan (center) and the cast of Peter Pan.
PHOTO BY MATTHEW
Cody Garcia as Captain Hook.
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS AT THE SPEED: ENGAGING COMMUNITIES THROUGH STORYTELLING
Artist-in-Residence Makes the Power of Film Accessible to All
by Speed Art Museum
THE Speed Art Museum’s Community Connections Artist in Residency program is a dynamic initiative designed to foster meaningful relationships between the museum and local communities through teaching and offering individuals the opportunity to tell their stories using technology that is likely already at their fingertips.
To help facilitate this initiative, the museum has named Demi Gardner as Artist-in-Residence for 2024/2025. She will collaborate with residents of Louisville’s Historic West End to explore self-identity, community relationships, and storytelling through filmmaking.
This inspiring residency includes workshops for students ages 12 to 17 and adults 18 to 55-plus, where participants will learn filmmaking fundamentals, connect with local professionals, and create impactful “call-to-action” PSA-style videos addressing social issues in their community.
As a Louisville native and filmmaker, Gardner’s work is rooted in the power of storytelling. She is passionate about amplifying voices, fostering empathy through film, and celebrating the vibrant
spirit of her community in every project she takes on.
WORKSHOPS SPAN VARIOUS AGE GROUPS
The Finding Your Lens program is designed for teens 12 to 17 years of age and explores the world of activism through social media. Students discover fundamental filmmaking skills to help their communities gain a voice by creating public service announcements to stimulate discussion around issues their communities face.
The Finding Your Department: Discovering Film Career Options is
designed for adults ages 18 to 55 and beyond and introduces a variety of career options the film industry has to offer. No prior knowledge is necessary. Participants will gain exposure to film equipment and local industry leaders and will walk away from the class with public service announcements on issues that are important for their communities.
Gardner has dreamt of being in the film industry since she was young and has always been interested in opportunities to tell a story.
“I always thought I was going to be an actor, and in high school, I did theater and really loved it,” she said. “But then I took a technology class and video editing was part of the class, and I fell in love with directing and just being behind the camera.”
Her passion lies with the West End and making the power of film accessible to Black people, as well as teaching kids the power of storytelling and the power of picking up your phone. She says that kids can record just as well as anyone in a pinch, you just have to get your story down.
“I really want to empower my community and teach my people to tell their own story and not wait for anybody else to tell it for them,” Gardner said.
What really got Gardner into filmmaking was her involvement in community work and her time at a nonprofit called Peace Education, which taught kids how to use social media for good. Unfortunately, that program doesn’t exist anymore. Gardner believed in its benefits and wanted to bring that back to teach kids how to use the tools they already have in their hands, as well as how to look at social media in a different way.
“I was lucky enough to get a couple grants through the Kentucky Foundation for Women, and Elizabeth Colon Nelson stumbled upon an article the KFW sent out and reached out to me about potentially working with the Speed,” Gardner said. “She loved what I was doing and wanted to see how we could work together.”
The program is all about “finding your lens” and teaching kids and adults the foundation of storytelling and the basics of filmmaking. From that, they will
make a PSA about their community and what they would like to change, or what they would like to see happen in their community.
MAKING FILM MORE ACCESSIBLE
The workshops and collaborations so far have been inspiring.
“It has been wonderful that our older folks come out and enjoy the program and have more energy than me!” Gardner said. “We have an 84-year-old woman who works eight hours every day and then makes sure she comes to class. It is really refreshing to see. Then we also have a couple students that bring their kids along, and it is nice to see them connect over film and learning film together.”
The Find Your Department workshop was created because Gardner wanted to make it easier for the Black community to see that the film industry is an option for them. She also liked the idea of hosting the programs at the Shawnee Library to make them easily accessible and eliminate the transportation barrier
for those that wanted to attend. The programs are free and the technology is provided, so there is also no cost barrier to participate.
“We want to make this as accessible as possible,” Gardner said. “The tools will be provided and if someone doesn’t have a phone to film on, we have iPads for them to use.” she said.
The program has been a success so far, according to group feedback and Gardner’s peers at Speed.
“Demi has more than exceeded my expectations in every way,” said Colon Nelson, Associate Director of Community Belonging at the Speed Museum. “Working with Demi has been truly enlightening in terms of what is possible, what is happening in the community, and how to ignite change with whatever tool you have.”
The Community Connections Artist in Residency program was started by Colon Nelson’s predecessor, Toya Northington, and supported two previous Artists-inResidence, Shauntrice Martin and Ashlee Phillips.
In every opportunity, there is also a challenge, so Colon Nelson has been intentional about fully supporting Gardner and her vision.
“Because the program was dormant for two years, I wanted to make sure that we were supporting artists from the power of positionality that we have at the Speed, and that it was as reciprocal as possible. I feel that that has really been the shape of things,” Colon Nelson said.
The program is exciting not only for the students, but when Gardner sees that passion and excitement from the
students in the workshops, she gets a lot out of it as well.
“I can’t really tell you what it means to the students, but for me, it really brightens my day because this person realizes they have the power to take charge of their own story, and they can shape it in any way they want and it really gives them a chance to say,
‘This is who I am, this is what I'm doing.’” she said.
For more information, visit bit.ly/speed-air-gardner
PROGRAM TIMES AND LOCATIONS:
Finding Your Lens
Ages 12 to 17
March 3 – 6, March 10 – 13
Shawnee Public Library
In this workshop series, participants will explore the world of filmmaking by creating their own short educational videos – PSAs –with the Speed Art Museum Community Connections Artistin-Residence, Demi Gardner. This class will focus on developing an understanding of filmmaking, identifying social issues, and crafting a call-to-action PSA on their social topics. The eight sessions will explore self-identity, community relationships, and storytelling through filmmaking.
Finding
Your Department
Adults Ages 18 to 55-plus
March 8, 15, 22
Shawnee Public Library
In this workshop series, participants will explore the world of filmmaking by learning how to break into the industry. Participants will learn from and interact with department heads of the film industry. The class will offer hands-on experience and networking opportunities for adults interested in working in film. After meeting with industry professionals, the class will focus on identifying social issues in their communities and crafting a call-toaction PSA on their social topics.
No prior knowledge is necessary. Participants will gain exposure to film equipment and local industry leaders and will walk away from the class with public service announcements on issues that are important for their communities.
SHAPE YOUR YEAR WITH ARTFUL INSPIRATION AND COMMUNITY
A membership to the Speed Art Museum is your path to a year filled with creativity, culture, and connection. Whether you’re discovering new artists, attending thought-provoking programs, or simply enjoying unlimited access to our diverse collections, your membership allows you to celebrate art in meaningful ways all year long. Join us and make 2025 your most inspiring year yet!
BRILLIANT EXILES: AMERICAN WOMEN IN PARIS, 1900-1939
March 29 – June 22, 2025
LOUISVILLE’S BLACK AVANT-GARDE: GLOUCESTER CALIMAN (G.C.) COXE
June 9 – September 7, 2025
CURRENT SPEED: VIAN SORA
October 2, 2025 – January 18, 2026
October 17, 2025 – February 1, 2026
OTHERWORLDLY JOURNEYS: THE FANTASTICAL WORLDS OF BOSCH AND BRUEGEL LAVON VAN WILLIAMS JR. EVERYTHING MUST CHANGE
November 6, 2025 – March 8, 2026
GENERAL MEMBERSHIP BECOME A MEMBER TODAY!
Brilliant Exiles: American Women in Paris, 1900-1939
Organized by the National Portrait Gallery
Frances Cranmer Greenman
Detail of Self-Portrait Oil on canvas, 1923
The Minneapolis Institute of Art, Gift of Mrs. Patrick Butler