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A SPRING IN OUR STEP
Hope springs eternal in the human breast; man never is, but always to be blest. The soul, uneasy, and confin'd from home, rests and expatiates in a life to come.
– from An Essay on Man by Alexander Pope
Amy Higgs Managing Editor
G. Douglas Dreisbach Publisher
We can’t help but feel a little poetic inspiration … spring is almost here! Once we move the clocks forward on March 9, it’ll be no time until we can pack away the heavy wool sweaters and dig our shorts and sandals out of the closet.
We’re hopeful that we’ve seen the last of the snow and ice for 2025. (Yes, we know there’s been a flake or two as late as May in years past. We choose to be optimistic.). But we’re even more enthusiastic about what’s on the performing arts calendar over the next few months
We’re pleased to bring you some of the highlights in this issue of Audience Magazine. For starters, what’s not to like about the boy who never grew up and his adventures in Neverland? Check out our preview of the iconic musical Peter Pan on page 12.
Find out about an exciting exhibit that celebrates the human imagination in a letter from the Speed Art Museum’s Director on page 18. And read an exciting announcement about the revitalization of a Louisville performing arts landmark on page 20
This is just a taste of what’s to come as the weather warms up. We’re pleased to bring you even more performance previews, spotlights, and other stories in our next quarterly print edition in April.
Thank you to our generous advertisers for making all these stories possible, and for allowing us to bring them to you at no charge
Hope really does spring eternal,
Amy & Doug
KENTUCKY PARKS: Dale Hollow Lake State Park 5
CELEBRATING THE ARTS A Note From Gov. Beshear 12
AUDIENCE EVENT OUTLOOK: Save the Date for These Great Events!
PNC BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE: A Magical Flight 7
SPEED ART MUSEUM: A Letter from the Director 17
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Lights, Camera, Louisville! 18
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 Tourism, Arts, and Heritage Cabinet
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear
PNC Broadway in Louisville Speed Art Museum
TO READ CURRENT AND PREVIOUS AUDIENCE PLAYBILLS AND PERFORMANCE GUIDES, GO TO ISSUU.COM/AUDIENCE502.
Cover:
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Audience® Magazine is published by The Audience Group, Inc. 136 St. Matthews Avenue #300 Louisville, KY 40207 502.212.5177 | Audience502.com
On the
Cody Garcia as Captain Hook and the cast of Peter Pan. Photo by Matthew Murphy. Read more on page 12.
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 HAS ALMOST SPRUNG… 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.
MARCH
NOW THROUGH MARCH 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 government-enforced ban on private toilets. A wickedly funny comedic romp!
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
Rodney Carrington Comedy
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,
AUDIENCE EVENT OUTLOOK
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 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.
22
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
4-6
Louisville Ballet
Cinderella
The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall
Choreographed by Alun Jones, 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.
5
Patterson Hood w. Lydia Loveless
Southern Rock/Alt-Country
Whirling Tiger
Patterson Hood is an American singersongwriter and frontman of the band Drive-By Truckers. His music blends Southern rock, alt-country, and Americana, with lyrics often addressing themes of working-class struggles, personal reflection, and Southern culture. Known for his deep voice and storytelling, he creates emotionally raw, authentic music.
8
Judah & the Lion – The Process Tour
Paristown Hall
Judah & The Lion is an American alternative band known for blending folk, rock, hip-hop, and pop influences into a unique, energetic sound. Formed in Nashville in 2011, the band gained popularity with their 2016 album “Folk Hop N’ Roll,” which showcased their genre-blurring style. Their music features anthemic choruses, banjodriven melodies, and uplifting lyrics, making them a favorite in both indie and mainstream music circles.
9
Louisville Orchestra
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Part 1 (in concert)
The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall
The end begins. Part one of the epic finale Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is here! CineConcerts invites audiences back to witness the beginning of Harry’s most important battle yet,
with the full film accompanied by a live symphony orchestra. Harry, Ron, and Hermione set out to track down the secret to Voldemort’s power!
11
Louisville Orchestra
Michael Feinstein: My Tribute to Tony Bennett
The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall
Michael Feinstein brings to life the iconic songs and legacy of Tony Bennett in a heartfelt tribute. Supported by the Louisville Orchestra, Feinstein pays homage to the legendary Bennett, delivering a symphony of sound that celebrates his 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.
11
Neal Francis: Return to Zero Tour
Retro/Funk/R&B
Headliners Music Hall
Neal Francis is a Chicago-based singersongwriter and pianist known for his retro-inspired blend of New Orleans funk, classic R&B, and psychedelic soul. His music features groovy rhythms, rich organ textures, and vintage tones, drawing influence from artists like Dr. John, Allen Toussaint, and The Band, creating a timeless, danceable sound.
17 & 18
Alison Krauss & Union Station
Bluegrass/Country
Louisville Palace
Alison Krauss & Union Station is an awardwinning bluegrass and country band known for their impeccable musicianship and harmonies. Led by Krauss, whose angelic vocals and fiddle playing have captivated audiences worldwide, the band blends traditional bluegrass with contemporary influences. Their music features intricate instrumentation,
17
Live Dead & Brothers:
A Celebration of The Grateful Dead and The Allman Brothers Headliners Music Hall
Prepare to embark on a mesmerizing journey through the golden era of psychedelic blues and the seeds of the “jam band” scene as Live Dead & Brothers takes the stage. Comprising actual and legacy members from the extended Grateful Dead and Allman Brothers families, this exceptional
Guberman from Phil Lesh & Friends, Pete Lavezzoli from Oteil & Friends and special guest, slide guitarist Steve Kimock.
18
Louisville Orchestra
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallow Part 2 (in concert)
The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall
After seven films, it all comes down to this: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 will grace the screen once more — this time in concert! The characters you love are back, battling villains and protecting Hogwarts from Voldemort himself. Hear a live symphony orchestra bring Alexandre Desplat’s music to life and experience all the action as the film is projected onto a giant screen with this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
19
Also performing will be Kentucky-icons Wynonna Judd and S.B. Goodman. Childers’ music blends Appalachian roots with modern storytelling, combining country, folk, and bluegrass influences. Known for his soulful voice and vivid lyrics, his songs explore themes of love, hardship, and small-town life, resonating deeply with diverse audiences.
21
& 22
CAKE
Alt Rock
Iroquois Amphitheater
Originally formed as a somewhat antagonistic answer to grunge, CAKE’s defiant self-reliance and lucid yet everinventive music has made them a nation-state unto themselves with no evident peers in sound or perspective. Their most recent album, “Showroom of Compassion,” debuted at No. 1 on the
22-27
Broadway in Louisville & Juliet
The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall
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.
25-30
My Morning Jacket
Southern Rock/Jam
Louisville Palace
My Morning Jacket is an American rock band from Louisville known for their eclectic blend of indie rock, psychedelic, Southern rock, and folk influences. Led by frontman Jim James, their music features reverb-drenched vocals, expansive instrumentals, and a dynamic mix of atmospheric ballads and high-energy rock anthems. Albums like “Z” and “Circuital” showcase their signature sound, blending ethereal melodies with powerful, jamband-inspired performances.
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.
29
Shen Yun
Performing Arts/Choreographed Dance
The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall
The gong resounds, the curtain opens, and a heavenly scene unfolds before your eyes. Fairies emerge from a sea of billowing clouds. Mongolians ride on horseback across grasslands as vast as the sky. The Monkey King leaps into the sky to fight demons. Classic stories of love and loss, of humor and heroic deeds, come to life. Shen Yun invites you to travel back to the magical world of ancient China. Experience a lost culture through the incredible art of classical Chinese dance, and see legends come to life.
MAY
8, 10, 11, 15, 17, 18
CenterStage 9 to 5: The Musical
The Trager Family JCC
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?
16
Bonnie Raitt
Iroquois Ampitheater
Bonnie Raitt is a legendary singersongwriter and slide guitarist known for her soulful blend of blues, rock, and folk. With hits like “Something to Talk About” and “I Can't Make You Love Me,” her emotive voice and masterful guitar work have earned her multiple Grammys. Raitt’s powerful performances and heartfelt storytelling continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
29
Kevin James: Owls Don’t Walk Comedy
Louisville Palace
Kevin James' stand-up comedy blends relatable humor with animated storytelling, showcasing his talent for turning everyday situations into laugh-out-loud moments. Known for his physical comedy and charming delivery, he explores topics like family life, awkward encounters, and modern challenges. James' warm, down-toearth style and keen observations make his shows a delightful experience for audiences of all ages.
Know of a great concert, performance, or arts event we should share? Email the details to ddreisbach@theaudiencegroup.com.
PERFORMANCE PREVIEW
A MAGICAL FLIGHT
PETER PAN LANDS AT THE KENTUCKY CENTER MARCH 25-30
by NAME
PERFORMANCE PREVIEW
LOUISVILLE audiences, get ready to take flight! Broadway in Louisville is bringing the high-flying, timeless classic Peter Pan to The Kentucky Center from March 25 to 30, promising a spectacular theatrical experience that will enchant audiences of all ages.
A beloved story of adventure, imagination, and the joy of never growing up, Peter Pan has been delighting audiences for over a century. This latest touring production brings fresh energy, stunning special effects, and Broadway-caliber performances to J.M. Barrie’s iconic tale, ensuring a night of theater that is nothing short of magical.
Since its first Broadway production in 1954, Peter Pan has captivated generations with its soaring melodies, daring sword fights, and unforgettable characters. With a soaring score by Morris (Moose) Charlap and lyrics by Carolyn Leigh, along with additional songs from Jule Styne, Betty Comden, and Adolph Green, this cherished musical includes classics like “I’m Flying,” “I Won’t Grow Up,” and “Never Never Land.”
The show’s signature spectacle — Peter Pan’s gravity-defying flight — remains one of the most breathtaking moments in theater. Audiences can expect state-of-the-art flying effects, dazzling choreography, and a visually stunning Neverland that brings the fantasy to life in vibrant color.
WHAT CRITICS AND AUDIENCES ARE SAYING
As the current North American tour makes its way across the country, Peter Pan has been earning high praise from both critics and theatergoers alike. In Chicago, reviewers raved about the production’s stunning visuals and energetic performances.
The Chicago Tribune called it “a dazzling, heartwarming adventure that reminds us why we fell in love with Peter, Wendy, and Captain Hook in the first place.”
In recent performances in other cities, audiences were swept away by the show’s technical marvels, with media praising its “whimsical staging and unforgettable flights of fancy.” Theater lovers applauded the strong performances, with one reviewer noting, “This is Peter Pan as it was meant to be seen — big, bold, and brimming with magic.”
WHAT TO EXPECT IN LOUISVILLE
Louisville audiences are in for a treat as this spectacular production lands at The Kentucky Center. The talented cast brings the beloved characters to life with humor, charm, and
BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE PRESENTS Peter Pan March 25-30, 2025
Nolan Almeida as Peter Pan makes his entrance. Photo by Matthew Murphy.
“Hook’s Tarantella.” (center) Cody Garcia as Captain Hook and the cast of Peter Pan.
PHOTO BY MATTHEW
heart. From the mischievous Peter Pan, who refuses to grow up, to the adventurous Wendy Darling and the delightfully villainous Captain Hook, every role is crafted with care and charisma.
Adding to the magic, audiences can expect:
• Dazzling Stagecraft – Cutting-edge flying technology will have Peter and his friends soaring above the stage in jaw-dropping fashion.
• A Mesmerizing Neverland – Stunning sets and costumes transport the audience into a world of mermaids, lost boys, and thrilling battles with the nefarious Captain Hook.
• Show-Stopping Musical Numbers – The show’s classic songs will have audiences humming along long after the curtain falls.
• A Theatrical Experience for All Ages – Whether you’re introducing a child to Peter Pan for the first time or reliving your own childhood memories, this production promises fun for the whole family.
WHY YOU SHOULDN’T MISS IT
There’s a reason Peter Pan has endured for generations — it’s a tale that speaks to the child in all of us. The sense of wonder, the thrill of adventure, and the theme of holding onto one’s
youthful spirit make it one of the most magical productions in Broadway history.
Broadway in Louisville’s Peter Pan is one of the season’s mustsee shows. Whether you’re revisiting Neverland or discovering it for the first time, prepare to be swept away by a production that soars in every sense of the word.
For tickets and more information, visit louisville.broadway.com.
Eats
restaurants below are certified and recommended by Audience as premium places for pre-show dinner, drinks or mingling. Let them know we sent you!
Bailey Frankenberg as Tiger Lily.
StageOne Academy summer camps encourage students of all ages and abilities to explore and practice the fundamentals – and the fun – of theatre! Choose from a variety of experiences to fit your interest.
2- and 3-week Performance Camps Theme Weeks
Drama Skills Camps
Each session ends with a sharing, and multi-week performance camps culminate in a full production with set, costumes, lights, and more on our stage at Walden Theatre!
Led by local professional artists and educators, our camps are designed to meet students exactly where they are – whether this is their first performance opportunity or they’re a seasoned veteran of the stage.
Adventure Awaits in
DALE HOLLOW LAKE STATE PARK
The Perfect Outdoor Escape for Louisville Residents
FOR Louisville residents looking to escape the city and embrace the great outdoors, Dale Hollow Lake State Park is the perfect getaway. Just under three hours south of Louisville, on the Kentucky-Tennessee border, this stunning destination offers a pristine retreat filled with adventure and relaxation. Regularly ranked among the nation’s top lakes by USA Today, Dale Hollow Lake provides countless opportunities for outdoor recreation.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Whether you’re looking for an actionpacked weekend or a peaceful retreat, Dale Hollow Lake State Park has something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy an array of activities, including hiking, camping, golfing, boating, fishing, and horseback trail riding. The park’s well-maintained trails offer breathtaking views as they wind through rolling woodlands and lead to stunning overlooks above the lake.
STAY IN COMFORT
The state-owned and operated Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park makes adventure easy to find. The Mary Ray Oaken Lodge features 60 comfortable guest rooms, a full-service restaurant offering delicious breakfast and dinner buffets, and a refreshing swimming pool — perfect for those warm Kentucky summer days. The lodge’s prime location atop a bluff provides panoramic views of the lake and surrounding forest, with easy access to a nearby marina, multiple trails, and one of the best golf courses in the state.
For those seeking a more immersive outdoor experience, the park offers 145 campsites, RV hook-ups, and cozy cabin rentals. Whether you prefer roughing it under the stars or enjoying a comfortable stay in a rustic cabin, Dale Hollow has an option that suits your style.
EXPLORE THE TRAILS
Hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking enthusiasts will love the park’s extensive trail system. Many of these trails follow historic logging roads along ridge tops, leading to breathtaking vantage points overlooking Dale Hollow Lake. Wildlife lovers will also appreciate the abundant opportunities for birdwatching and spotting native Kentucky fauna.
ENJOY WORLD-CLASS GOLF
One of the park’s standout attractions is the Dale Hollow Resort Golf Course, a hidden gem for golf lovers. This meticulously maintained course features
rolling Bermuda fairways and recently upgraded bunkers, providing a challenge that both seasoned and casual golfers will enjoy. The course’s signature hole — No. 15 — is a stunning 180- to 190yard par three, requiring a shot over a dramatic ravine. The tee box view extends over the treetops, making it one of the most breathtaking holes in Kentucky golf.
PLAN YOUR ESCAPE
Dale Hollow Lake State Park is the ideal getaway for Louisville residents seeking adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re teeing off on the golf course, exploring scenic trails, or unwinding by the lake, this park offers the perfect balance of excitement and tranquility.
Kentucky is home to 45 state parks, including 17 resort parks and 13 golf courses. For more information about Dale Hollow Lake State Park and other Kentucky State Parks, visit parks.ky.gov.
A LETTER FROM SPEED ART MUSEUM DIRECTOR RAPHAELA PLATOW
Dear Friends,
At its heart, the Speed Art Museum is a celebration of human imagination — the force that fuels creativity, connects cultures, and shapes our future. Imagination thrives when shaped by a variety of experiences and perspectives, and the imaginations of artists, as well as those of visitors, staff, and donors, are woven throughout our galleries.
This powerful ability to imagine reflects our unique human potential and offers a glimpse into what could be. Without our imagination, we wouldn’t be able to envision a future for ourselves, a better tomorrow for our children, or innovative solutions to the challenges we face. Art museums are brimming with creativity, and we celebrate the creative process as a magical, openended journey. But before creation begins, an artist must first imagine.
In a sense, every human creation or invention began as a vision in someone’s mind. Art is a unique manifestation of that imagination. Our imaginings are deeply connected to the cultures we come from the environments we inhabit, and the social and political realities that shape us.
Art, therefore, is not only a reflection of an artist’s unique perspective on the world, but also a window into a lived reality very different from our own. Through art from around the world and across time, we are invited to see through others’ eyes, to experience their imagination with curiosity, empathy, and intellectual engagement. Like a mirror, art can reflect who we are, encouraging deeper self-reflection, but it can also open a door to new understandings of ourselves within the broader tapestry of human experience. When art sparks a shift in our thinking, our imagination unfolds into new territories.
At the Speed Art Museum, for nearly 100 years, our vision has been to invite everyone to experience the transformative power of art and the ideas of artists. Over time, we have come
to understand that fulfilling this vision means presenting art that reflects a wide range of experiences and perspectives.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, art museums have a growing responsibility to help audiences engage with the world through the lens and imagination of artists. This gives us intimate, often mysterious insight into the lives and souls of others — insights we may otherwise never encounter. In this way, museums can foster empathy, expand worldviews and highlight the richness of human creativity.
What an opportunity that is! For much of history, the ideas shaping art and culture were often drawn from a select group of voices. Today, our collective human potential is expanding, with more minds and a wider range of perspectives free to imagine and create.
Imagination unfolds and expands with a richness of viewpoints, growing with every act of creative thinking that takes place in studios, workshops, and homes around the globe. This includes the voices of artists and makers previously confined to the periphery of history.
As you wander through our galleries, you encounter the imaginations of artists whose insights and artistic achievements have long been part of the canon of art history, as well as historic and
contemporary creators who are adding new layers to our understanding of specific moments in history, offering fresh sensibilities and perspectives.
Our spring exhibition, Brilliant Exiles, shines a light on a group of maverick American women who sought to expand the boundaries of artistic expression in Paris, far from the social and artistic conventions that dominated the United States at the time.
Immersed in an atmosphere of fresh cultural influences, these artists embraced new ideas that fueled their imaginative breakthroughs — both for themselves and for the future of womanhood and culture. From expanding the boundaries of Western dance by incorporating influences from African and African-American traditions, to reimagining the depiction of the female form in painting, these daring artists forged new pathways.
Brilliant Exiles showcases their courageous and visionary contributions, inviting us once again to witness the transformative power of interconnection and imagination. Then, now, and always.
Sincerely,
Raphaela Platow, Director
Vanessa German's The Holiest Wilderness is Freedom 2 in the recently reinstalled contemporary galleries.
PHOTO BY MINDY
Far Left: Laura Waring, Jessie Redmon Fauset, 1945. National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution; gift of the Harmon Foundation.
Left: Luigi Lucioni, Portrait of Ethel Waters, 1939. Collection of the Huntsville Museum of Art.
LIGHTS, CAMERA, LOUISVILLE!
$70M Film & TV Soundstage Set to Transform Historic Louisville Gardens
LOUISVILLE is rolling out the red carpet for filmmakers with the city’s first-ever dedicated film and television soundstage officially in motion.
Mayor Craig Greenberg has signed off on a major development agreement to bring this $70 million project to life at the Historic Louisville Gardens.
As part of the deal, Mayor Greenberg is committing $10 million in Kentucky General Assembly funding to jumpstart the redevelopment, with construction expected to begin in late 2025. Once completed, the Louisville Gardens Sound Stages will boast two state-of-the-art indoor soundstages, 40,000 square feet of production space, and 40,000 square feet of office space leased to production companies. The facility is projected to create more than 50 full-time jobs, with an average hourly wage of $58.
“As Louisville’s film industry continues to gain momentum, this project cements
our city as a premier destination for movie, television, and commercial productions,” said Mayor Greenberg.
“The Louisville Gardens Sound Stages will breathe new life into a historic landmark, create high-paying jobs, and fuel Downtown’s revitalization.”
This initiative is part of a larger $100 million investment by the Kentucky General Assembly to fund six transformative projects in Downtown Louisville, including the Community Care Campus, LOUMED, a reimagined Belvedere, the Downtown Vacant Building Conversion Program, and the Butchertown Sports & Entertainment District.
“Louisville is the economic engine of Kentucky, and we’re incredibly excited to see these major projects come to life,” said Kentucky Sen. Julie Raque Adams.
The Louisville Gardens Sound Stages is a collaboration between Unbridled Films,
Sylmar Studios, and Poe Cos. — each bringing decades of experience in film production and real estate development.
“Infrastructure like this soundstage gives Kentucky the edge to attract more highprofile productions, strengthening our creative and technical workforce,” said Merry-Kay Poe, of Unbridled Films.
“We’re honored to transform this historic space into a cutting-edge hub for film and media.”
“Sylmar Studios is proud to be part of Kentucky’s growing film industry,” added CEO Tony Guanci.
An official announcement ceremony will be held at the Louisville Gardens in the coming weeks, marking the start of a new era for film and TV production in the Bluegrass State. Stay tuned — big things are coming to the big screen, right here in Louisville!
COMING SOON
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
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
