Audience Magazine | December 2024 | Louisville Arts & Entertainment by Audience502

Your connection to Louisville's arts and entertainment.

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

MAGIC IS ALL AROUND

The joy of brightening other lives, bearing each other’s burdens, easing each other’s loads and supplanting empty hearts and lives with generous gifts becomes, for us, the magic of the holidays.” – W.C. Jones

Amy Higgs Managing Editor

G. Douglas Dreisbach Publisher

Imparting joy and lifting spirits is the very essence of the holiday season, but one could argue that it is at the core of the performing arts community all year round. What offers more of an instant dose of euphoria than the moment when the house lights go down, the orchestra swells, and the curtain rises? Never mind about the moment the crowd is on their feet demanding an encore!

At Audience Magazine, we’re grateful to be able to spread joy all year as well, by sharing the exciting, enthralling, fun, funny, wild, innovative, and dramatic stories of Louisville’s performing arts organizations. We started our monthly publication as an outlet for their stories when stages were dark during the pandemic, but we have continued for nearly five years because no matter what is going on in the world, audiences across Louisville and beyond need to — no, deserve to – hear these stories of love, tragedy, and triumph.

In this issue, we’re pleased to offer a preview of some of the exciting stories that will be told in 2025 — including a special, limited run of a beloved tale of resilience, a summary of some dynamic national and local exhibits on the horizon, plus a full-on smorgasbord of events that will keep your concert/ comedy palate satisfied well into spring.

And starting with our January issue, we are thrilled to bring you a highquality, quarterly print version of the magazine, in addition to the digital edition you have come to love and expect. Look for it on racks at local stores and watering holes near you!

We would like to thank you, our advertisers and staunch supporters, for being a part of the Audience family. We hope you all enjoy every last drop of the holidays, and we’ll see you in the new year!

Magically yours,

Amy & Doug

'PLANE PEOPLE'

2025 ART OUTLOOK

TICKET GIVEAWAYS SPECIAL INVITES SHOW PREVIEWS

A behind-the-scenes look into Louisville’s performing arts and entertainment during this unprecedented time of reflection and artistic creation.

PUBLISHER

The Audience Group, Inc.

G. Douglas Dreisbach

MANAGING EDITOR Amy Higgs

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Rhonda Mefford

SALES & MARKETING

G. Douglas Dreisbach

CONTRIBUTORS

PNC Broadway in Louisville Speed Art Museum

TO READ CURRENT AND PREVIOUS AUDIENCE PLAYBILLS AND PERFORMANCE GUIDES, GO TO ISSUU.COM/AUDIENCE502.

On the Cover: Addison Garner as Beverley Bass in Come From Away See the show January 11 & 12 at The Kentucky Center.

Photo by Matthew Murphy. Read more on page 12.

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

Audience® Magazine is published by The Audience Group, Inc. 136 St. Matthews Avenue #300 Louisville, KY 40207 502.212.5177 | Audience502.com

AUDIENCE EVENT OUTLOOK

ALL THINGS MERRY & BRIGHT

It may be the end of another year, but there is certainly no end to all of the great events on Louisville’s performance calendar! From Christmas pageants to classical ballet, you’ll find something for everyone in December. And as we roll into the new year, there are tons of great comedians, concerts, and theater performances lined up to keep even the biggest Scrooge entertained. Check out some of our favorites below.

For a full list of performing arts and entertainment events in Louisville, check out our event calendar at Audience502.com.

DECEMBER

3-8

Broadway in Louisville: Mamma Mia!

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget! Set on a 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.

3-31

A Wonderful Life Derby Dinner Playhouse

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! Book and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick; music by Joe Raposo; based on “The Greatest Gift” by Philip Van Doren Stern.

A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage Brown Theatre

The critically acclaimed holiday celebration that the whole family can enjoy brings Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the rest of the Peanuts gang together live on stage as they uncover the true meaning of Christmas and perform songs from the unforgettable musical score in a tribute to the legendary composer, Vince Guaraldi. The Broadwaystyle production, complete with all-new

immersive sets, lighting, choreography, and colorful costumes, has sold more than 300,000 tickets over the prior holiday seasons.

7-21

StageOne Family Theatre

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever! The Kentucky Center, Bomhard Theater

The Herdmans are the worst kids in the whole history of the world. They lie, steal, and cheat. Now they’ve bullied their way into the church’s annual Christmas pageant! Will the pageant be a disaster as everyone is expecting, or will the spirit of the season change the hearts and minds of the Herdman family?

Samara Joy: A Joyful Holiday feat. The McLendon Family Brown Theatre

With her Grammy Award-winning Verve Records debut, Linger Awhile, 23-year-old Bronx native Samara Joy makes her case to join the likes of Sarah, Ella, and Billie as the next mononymous jazz singing sensation.

Mike Birbigilia: Please Stop the Ride

Comedy

Brown Theatre

Mike Birbiglia is a comedian, writer, director, and actor who has performed his award-winning solo shows worldwide — from the Sydney Opera House to the West End of London to Broadway. His five solo shows, Sleepwalk With Me, My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend, Thank God For Jokes, The New One, and The Old Man & The Pool enjoyed successful runs on and off Broadway and became hit Netflix comedy specials. The shows merge storytelling and comedy in a way that The New York Times has called “Birbiglian.”

13-24

Louisville Ballet: The Brown-Forman Nutcracker Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Join Marie and her valiant Nutcracker prince on a magical journey to the land of the Sugar Plum Fairy. With worldclass choreography, sets, and costumes crafted for Kentucky, The Brown-Forman Nutcracker is a must-see local tradition. Choreography by Val Caniparoli. Music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

13-22

Kentucky Opera: Amahl and The Night Visitors

Kentucky Opera Center

This Kentucky Opera production captures the essential spirit of Christmas and presents Amahl and his mother’s story of the night the Three Kings, following the star to Bethlehem and their stop for shelter at the home of Amahl, a poor, crippled shepherd boy who lives with his widowed mother. Music and libretto by Gian Carlo Menotti. Sung in Italian with English captions.

Louisville Orchestra: Holiday Pops

Louisville Palace

Get ready to usher in the holiday season with “Holiday Pops” 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.

14 Jim Brickman: Comfort & Joy Holiday Concert

Brown Theatre

Renowned songwriter and pianist Jim Brickman is set to spread holiday cheer with his highly anticipated annual tour. As a beloved tradition for many, Brickman's Christmas tour promises to deliver an unforgettable experience filled with music, laughter, and heartwarming moments. With his signature style and undeniable talent, Brickman has become synonymous with the holiday season.

Same As It Ever Was:

A Tribute to Talking Heads Whirling Tiger

Same As It Ever Was is a dynamic Talking Heads tribute band, capturing the energy and essence of the legendary group. Known for their spot-on renditions of classics like “Once in a Lifetime” and “Psycho Killer,” they recreate the infectious rhythms and eclectic spirit of the original band, delivering an authentic, high-energy experience that delights both casual listeners and die-hard Talking Heads fans.

Hot Red Chili Peppers: A Tribute to RHCP Tribute Band

Mercury Ballroom

The ultimate RHCP tribute band hailing from Cincinnati. Bringing the iconic Californian energy to a venue near you, this talented group captures the essence of RHCP's eclectic sound and dynamic stage presence. With infectious rhythms, blistering guitar solos, spot-on vocals, and funky bass, Hot Red Chili Peppers deliver an electrifying performance that pays homage to the legendary funkrock pioneers.

Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder Christmas Bluegrass

Louisville Palace

Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder Christmas deliver a heartwarming blend of bluegrass and holiday spirit. This festive concert features traditional Christmas classics and original songs, showcasing Skaggs’ extraordinary musicianship and the band’s tight harmonies. With joyful performances and a warm atmosphere, audiences are treated to a night of celebration, nostalgia, and the true essence of the holiday season.

21 & 22

Christmas with C.S. Lewis

The Kentucky Center, Bomhard Theater

In the early years of his young adult life, C.S. Lewis believed the story of Christ’s birth was nothing more than feel-good myth. That all changed after a particular encounter with his great friend and fellow author, J.R.R. Tolkien. Although both men loved mythology in general, Tolkien was convinced that the Jesus myth was the one true myth. That was the start of Lewis’ journey from Atheism to Christianity. From that point on Christmas, for Lewis, took on an entirely different meaning.

21 & 22

13th Annual Indoor Holiday Bazaar by The Flea Off Market Mellwood Arts Center

Don’t miss local artists, craftspersons, collectors, food trucks, musicians, and more for the 13th Annual Indoor Holiday Bazaar.

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas

The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall

The holiday tradition continues! Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for more than 35 years, and now he has created a show that features Christmas classics in the distinctive Mannheim sound. The program includes 15 musicians playing more than 20 instruments against a backdrop of dazzling multimedia effects, capturing the spirit of the season in an immersive yet intimate setting.

JANUARY

3 & 4

A Salute to the Rat Pack & Friends Derby Dinner Playhouse

Back by popular demand! Starring DDP favorites Tyler Bliss, Corwyn Hodge, and 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!”

11 & 12

PNC Broadway in Louisville Come From Away!

The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall

Don’t miss the limited return of the true story of the small town that welcomed the world. Broadway’s Come From Away has won Best Musical all across North America and will be at Whitney Hall for a limited three performances. The production takes you into the heart of the remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers on 9/11 and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. Cultures clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night, and gratitude grew into enduring friendships.

11 – 19

Kentucky Shakespeare & Actors Theatre

The Importance of Being Earnest Actors Theatre of Louisville

Kentucky Shakespeare presents its first production on the Actors Theatre of

Louisville stage this January, with a perfect post-holiday pick-me-up! Oscar Wilde’s delightful comedy, subtitled, “A Trivial Comedy for Serious People,” sparkles with vibrant characters, mistaken identities, and farcical antics. When bachelors Jack and Algernon both create alter egos named “Ernest,” the lies quickly spiral into chaos, hilarity, cucumber sandwiches, and Victorian handbags. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience what the London Telegraph calls “the most perfect comedy in the English language.”

16 & 17

Tom Segura: Come Together

Comedy

Louisville Palace

Tom Segura is a renowned stand-up comedian, actor, and podcaster known for his sharp wit and fearless humor. With his signature deadpan delivery, he tackles everyday absurdities and personal anecdotes, often pushing boundaries. Co-host of the popular podcast, “Your Mom's House,” Segura's relatable, yet edgy style has earned him a dedicated fan base and multiple successful comedy specials.

17 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.

17 & 18

Louisville Orchestra

Midori and An Alpine Symphony

The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall

Don’t miss this remarkable concert featuring an incredible performance of Sibelius’ “Violin Concerto” by the

acclaimed violinist Midori along with a powerful presentation of Strauss’ “An Alpine Symphony” by your Louisville Orchestra. As part of the coffee series, come early and enjoy a complimentary Heine Brothers Coffee and a pre-concert talk hosted by 90.5 WUOL before the performance begins. Teddy Abrams, conductor.

Louisville Orchestra

Teddy Conducts Der Kaiser Von Atlantis

The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall

Step into the world of this poignant and thought-provoking opera that explores the themes of power, mortality, and the human spirit. “Der Kaiser von Atlantis” is a powerful allegory that resonates deeply with our times, and this performance promises to be a stirring rendition under the masterful direction of Teddy Abrams.

26 Elvis Tribute Artist Spectacular Brown Theatre

The Elvis Tribute Artist Spectacular is an era-by-era tribute concert celebrating the music and magic of Elvis Presley. The concert begins with the early rock-a-billy, the military years, the movie years, the ’68 comeback special in black leather and the show closes with the Las Vegas concert years.

31 & FEB 1

Lettuce

Funk/Jazz

Mercury Ballroom

Lettuce is: a.) the prime ingredient in a salad, b.) a slang for cash, c.) a green herb that can be smoked, d.) a genrebusting six-member musical collective formed in 1992 by four alumni of the prestigious Berklee College Of Music, or e.) all of the above. If you answered “e,” then you’re in on the sheer magic of a band that both feeds the rich history of funk and combines it with strains of hip-

hop, rock, psychedelia, jazz, soul, jam, go-go, and the avant-garde.

FEBRUARY

1 & 2

Louisville Ballet

A Time Remembered

The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall

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.

1 & 2

Ron White

Comedy

Louisville Palace

Ron White, known as "Tater Salad," delivers stand-up comedy with a distinctive Southern drawl and a glass of scotch in hand. A master storyteller, he blends sharp wit and unfiltered humor, sharing outrageous tales of life, relationships, and everyday absurdities. Famous from the Blue Collar Comedy Tour, White’s laid-back style and razorsharp punchlines create an unforgettable, laugh-out-loud experience.

The Cleverlys

Paristown Hall

The Cleverlys are a one-of-a-kind comedy and bluegrass fusion band, known for their humorous takes on popular songs. Led by Digger Cleverly, the group combines virtuosic musicianship with quirky, family-band personas, delivering unexpected bluegrass renditions of hits ranging from pop to hip-hop. Their energetic performances and witty satire create an unforgettable, laugh-out-loud musical experience.

1 Paula Poundstone

Comedy

The Kentucky Center, Bomhard Theater

Iconic comedian Paula Poundstone is known for her smart, observational humor and a spontaneous wit that

has become the stuff of legend. She regularly plays theaters across the country, hosts a weekly comedy podcast, “Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone,” and is a regular panelist on NPR’s “Wait, Wait… Don’t Tell Me.” Paula has starred in several HBO specials, including “Cats, Cops and Stuff,” which nabbed a cable ACE award for Best Comedy Special.

7

Charles Wesley Godwin Louisville Palace

Charles Wesley Godwin's concerts are a soulful journey through Appalachian storytelling and heartfelt Americana. With rich vocals and poignant lyrics, he weaves tales of love, struggle, and resilience, backed by an authentic blend of folk, country, and bluegrass. His passionate performances and magnetic stage presence create an intimate, immersive experience that resonates deeply with fans of genuine, roots-driven music.

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.

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.

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 government-enforced 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 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

Know of a great concert, performance, or arts event we should share? Email the details to ddreisbach@theaudiencegroup.com.

'PLANE PEOPLE'

by G. Douglas Dreisbach

PNC BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE PRESENTS Come From Away January 11 & 12, 2025

PNC Broadway in Louisville is excited for the return of the hit musical, Come From Away, on January 11 and 12 for three special performances.

The critically-acclaimed musical tells the remarkable true story of what transpired in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, during the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The show, written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, opened on Broadway in 2017 and quickly gained widespread praise for its powerful message of kindness, humanity, and resilience in the face of tragedy.

THE STORY AND SETTING

The narrative is set against the backdrop of one of the most harrowing days in modern history. Following the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) closed American airspace. As a result, 38 international flights, carrying nearly 7,000 passengers from around the world, were forced to land in Gander, a remote town with a population of about 10,000.

What followed was an extraordinary demonstration of compassion and community. Without hesitation, the townspeople opened their homes, hearts, and resources to strangers in need. They provided food, shelter, clothing, and emotional support, creating a makeshift community that broke down cultural and national boundaries. Over the next five days, relationships formed, stories were shared, and a profound sense of unity emerged from the chaos and fear.

THEMES AND MESSAGES

At its core, Come From Away is a story about human connection, kindness, and the resilience of the human spirit. The musical emphasizes the idea that even in the darkest of times, there is goodness to be found. It portrays how ordinary people, faced with extraordinary circumstances, can rise to the occasion and show incredible generosity.

The title itself is derived from a Newfoundland expression referring to visitors or outsiders. Throughout the musical, the “plane people” (as the passengers are called) transform from strangers to part of the Gander community, illustrating themes of inclusion, hospitality, and unity. The story also underscores

Touring cast and band members of Come From Away, 2023. Photo by Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade.

PHOTO BY MATTHEW MURPHY, MURPHYMADE

The touring cast of Come From Away

the notion that humanity’s capacity for compassion often transcends cultural and national differences.

CHARACTERS AND STRUCTURE

One of the musical's most distinctive features is its ensemble cast. There are no traditional lead roles; instead, the show relies on a dozen actors who each play multiple characters. These roles range from the passengers on the planes to the locals in Gander, capturing a wide variety of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. The actors seamlessly transition between characters, often switching roles with just a simple costume change or a shift in accent.

Key figures include:

• Capt. Beverley Bass, a pioneering female pilot, who wrestles with the gravity of the situation while maintaining composure for her crew and passengers. Her character represents strength and the professional challenges faced by women in aviation.

• Claude Elliott, the mayor of Gander, exemplifies leadership and community spirit. His determination to provide for the unexpected guests embodies the town’s spirit.

• Bonnie Harris, an animal welfare worker, focuses on the often-overlooked plight of the pets traveling in the cargo holds, adding an additional layer of compassion.

• Kevin and Kevin, a gay couple, face personal tensions and cultural differences, highlighting themes of acceptance and personal growth.

Through these characters, the musical paints a nuanced picture of diverse human experiences during an unprecedented event.

The story of Gander and its residents serves as an enduring example of humanity’s capacity for goodness...

STAGING AND DIRECTION

The staging of Come From Away is minimalistic but dynamic. The set, designed by Beowulf Boritt, primarily consists of a few chairs and tables, which the actors rearrange to create different settings — from airplane cabins to the town’s community center. This simplicity places the focus squarely on the performances and the story. The seamless transitions and lively choreography contribute to the show’s brisk pace, reflecting the urgency and emotion of the events.

Director Christopher Ashley’s approach emphasizes authenticity and sincerity. His direction ensures that the characters’ experiences feel real and relatable, avoiding sentimentality. Instead, the production’s emotional impact arises organically from the narrative and the performances.

CRITICAL AND POPULAR RECEPTION

Come From Away has received widespread critical acclaim for its heartwarming and uplifting portrayal of an extraordinary act of kindness. It was nominated for seven Tony Awards in 2017, winning Best Direction of a Musical for Ashley. Critics have praised its ability to find hope and humanity in the aftermath of tragedy, as well as its portrayal of the goodness that can emerge in times of crisis. The show’s message of unity and compassion has resonated deeply with audiences around the world.

The musical has also found success beyond Broadway, with productions in London, Toronto, and Australia, as well as a North American tour. Its universal themes and relatable characters have made it a global phenomenon, touching hearts across different cultures and languages.

IMPACT AND LEGACY

Come From Away has become more than just a theatrical production; it is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of community. It reminds audiences that even in the face of unimaginable events, acts of kindness and compassion can have a profound impact. The musical’s portrayal of real people and real events lends it an authenticity that resonates deeply, encouraging empathy and understanding.

The story of Gander and its residents serves as an enduring example of humanity’s capacity for goodness, offering a beacon of hope in challenging times. Come From Away not only entertains but also inspires, reminding us all of the importance of connection, community, and kindness.

For more information and tickets, visit louisville.broadway.com/shows.

The touring cast of Come From Away

PHOTO

EXHIBITS YOU'LL LOVE

2025 ART OUTLOOK

New Year, New Reasons to Visit The Speed

The Speed Art Museum is Kentucky's oldest and largest art institution, offering a wide variety of exhibits crossing over mediums and spanning over hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Founded 1925 by philanthropist Hattie Bishop Speed and opened in 1927, it began as a small, classical building and has since expanded into a modern, dynamic space with a diverse collection that spans 6,000 years and features European, American, and contemporary art, as well as African and Native American works.

The new year brings with it an array of exciting opportunities and reasons to frequent the famed museum and see all it has to offer. We will be highlighting these opportunities in each issue of Audience Magazine in 2025. Here is a preview:

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

Honoring Hattie Bishop Speed

As the Speed Art Museum approaches its centennial celebration, there will be

several reflections on the vision of the museum’s founder, Hattie Bishop Speed, who, in 1925, founded Kentucky’s oldest and largest art museum with the belief that art could transform lives and uplift the community. She was a trailblazer of her time, redefining cultural norms and creating a lasting impact here in Louisville.

Brilliant Exiles: American Women in Paris, 1900-1939

MARCH 29 - JUNE 22

The Speed Art Museum is the first and one of only two museums in 2025 to host this exciting exhibition outside of Washington, D.C., where it is currently on display at the National Portrait Gallery. Opening March 29 and running through June 22, this marquee exhibition celebrates American women artists who defied convention to thrive creatively

in early 20th-century Paris. Much like Hattie Speed championed art as a vehicle for progress in Kentucky, these women made groundbreaking contributions that shaped the international art world.

Phase 1 of Speed Outdoors FALL 2025

Opening in fall 2025, the Speed’s Art Park and sculpture garden embodies Hattie Speed’s forward-thinking attitude by creating a new outdoor space for art, nature, and community engagement.

The Speed’s Permanent Collection

With masterpieces spanning centuries, the museum’s collection is a testament to Hattie Speed’s enduring belief in the power of art to connect people and ideas. The museum recently completed a comprehensive reinstallation of its permanent galleries, putting more work on display than ever before and also offering visitors the chance to experience thematic displays that draw connections between historical and contemporary issues, showcasing strengths in

ceramics, glass, decorative arts, Dutch and Flemish Renaissance paintings, and newly acquired contemporary pieces. The Speed also houses the most comprehensive collection of works by Kentucky artists, telling the diverse stories of the state’s past and present. New acquisitions continue to reflect the Speed’s mission to include voices historically underrepresented in art, ensuring the museum evolves to mirror its community.

SPECIAL OFFERINGS IN JANUARY, FEBRUARY, AND MARCH

As we look forward to the start of the new year, here are some highlights that you won’t want to miss in the first few months of 2025:

Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrored Room: Let’s Survive Forever – Runs through January 12, 2025. Yayoi Kusama is an icon of global contemporary art, and this is one of her most immersive artworks to date that explores ideas of “selfobliteration” through repetition and play with space, light, color, and time.

Kathia St. Hilaire: Invisible Empires –Runs through February 9, 2025. Informed by her experience growing up in AfroCaribbean neighborhoods in South Florida, New York-based artist Kathia St. Hilaire (American, born 1995) seeks to celebrate and illuminate the complex histories of the communities she comes from through innovative, mixed-media studio processes.

Winslow Homer: American Storyteller, Part 2 – Runs through April 20, 2025. Widely regarded as one of the foremost and influential American artists of the 19th century, Winslow Homer began his career as a freelance commercial illustrator designing wood engravings for popular illustrated weekly publications such as Harper’s Weekly, Appleton’s Journal of Literature, Science, and Art, and Ballou’s Pictorial Drawing-Room Companion.

Speed Cinema – If you are looking for a premium experience for casual

moviegoers and cinephiles alike, the Speed Cinema line-up always has interesting subjects and offerings with programming that reflects the museum’s broader mission of fostering meaningful engagement with art and ideas. On February 23, Speed Cinema’s free Sunday Showcase “Celebrating Black Stories” features the audience favorite and awardwinning films from the latest New York International Children’s Film Festival.

For more information, visit SpeedMuseum.org .

Opposite Page: Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrored Room: Let’s Survive Forever; Above Left: Katharine Nash Rhoades by Alfred Stieglitz; Above: Self-Portrait by Frances Cranmer Greenman

Repeal

Explore endless reflections - on view through January 12, 2025.

GIVE A WORLD OF WONDER

The gift of membership at the Speed Art Museum offers free admission to thought-provoking exhibitions, access to exciting events, discounts on Speed Cinema screenings, and infinite ways to connect with art and creativity.

YAYOI KUSAMA. INFINITY MIRRORED ROOM – LET’S SURVIVE FOREVER, 2017

and

SHARE THE SPEED WITH SOMEONE YOU LOVE.

speedmuseum.org/belong

Courtesy of the artist, David Zwirner, Ota Fine Arts,

Victoria Miro. Collection of the Art Gallery of Ontario

Kentucky State Parks’ 13 Golf Courses

offer award-winning play, along with private cabins or lodges with restaurants for your stay. Enjoy trails, marinas, and an amazing variety of golf tracts. Packages allow for flexible length of stay and golf options across our new Kentucky home. Contact your park of choice for pricing and availability.

Plan your trip at parks.ky.gov/golf