Audience is the publishing group for Audience MAgAzine, broAdwAy in louisville’s officiAl plAybills, KentucKy shAKespeAre And other groups in louisville.
publisher
The Audience Group, Inc.
G. Douglas Dreisbach
MAnAging editor Amy Higgs
founding publishers
Jeff and Kay Tull
creAtive director
Rhonda Mefford
sAles & MArKeting
G. Douglas Dreisbach
printing
V.G. Reed & Sons, Louisville, KY
©2025, The Audience Group, Inc.
Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.
Audience ® is published by: The Audience Group, Inc. 136 St. Matthews Avenue #200 Louisville, KY 40207 502.212.5177 Audience502.com
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Audience is a leading information source for the arts and entertainment enthusiasts of Louisville. We keep audiences “in the know” with Audience Magazine and on Audience502.com with a calendar of preferred events, show previews and reviews, ticket
and more. For article suggestions and input, advertising information and general inquiries, contact Doug Dreisbach at ddreisbach@theaudiencegroup.com or call 502-212-2066.
For the second year, we’re pleased to bring you our annual comprehensive guide to the 2025-26 seasons of Louisville’s flagship performing arts organizations, including Broadway in Louisville, Louisville Orchestra, Louisville Ballet, Kentucky Opera, Derby Dinner Playhouse, and more.
The calendar listings included here are intended to serve as quickreference guide for local shows all season long. You will also find a handy dandy snapshot of each performing arts group at the back of the book, as well as a list of the primary venues where they perform.
Audience is proud to have been the voice of Louisville’s performing arts community for more than 30 years. We launched this guide last year as a companion to our longtime publications, including theater playbills and Audience Magazine. Our inaugural guide was a huge hit among arts patrons. We distributed thousands of printed guides at events and businesses all over the community, with many locations requesting more copies!
Thank you for picking up a copy of this guide and supporting the Louisville performing arts community. We’d also like to thank our fantastic advertisers, who allow us to bring you this Performing Arts Season Calendar free of charge.
See you at the show,
G. Douglas Dreisbach Publisher
Amy Higgs Managing Editor
SEPTEMBER
5
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: BEN FOLDS
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center Vocals & Piano: Ben Folds
Singer-songwriter Ben Folds brings his sharp lyrics, dynamic piano style, and genre-blending sound to Louisville for a one-night-only performance with the Louisville Orchestra. Featuring hits from Ben Folds Five, solo favorites, and orchestral arrangements, this concert showcases his signature mix of musicianship and storytelling.
5
RAISE THE BARRE: A BENEFIT FOR THE DANCERS OF LOUISVILLE BALLET
The Biscuit Lounge
Join your friends at Louisville Ballet for a night of dancing, drinks, and fun to help “Raise the Barre” for the Company Artists of Louisville Ballet! The evening offers a chance to celebrate and support the devoted Company Artists – 24 professional dancers who give their time, effort, and dedication to the ballet and have put roots down in this city. 100% of the proceeds will elevate the salaries of these vital members of our company and community. Let’s Raise The Barre and shape the future of Louisville’s arts community together!
6 & 7
BIG FOUR ARTS FESTIVAL
Big Four Lawn – Waterfront Park
The Big Four Arts Festival has been the most attended (20,000+) two-day event ever held at Waterfront Park on the Big Four Bridge Lawn, which consists of four acres of tree-lined walks overlooking the Ohio River, located at the base of the Walking Bridge. The annual festival is held every year on the weekend following Labor Day.
8-OCT 18
STAGEONE FAMILY THEATRE: PETE THE CAT
Walden Theatre at StageOne
For Pete the Cat, life is always an adventure — even when he meets the ultra-organized Jimmy Biddle. When Jimmy freezes during art class, Pete helps him find his creative spark. Join them on a groovy journey of friendship and inspiration — all the way to Paris and back in a VW Bus!
9-14
PNC BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE: MJ THE MUSICAL
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Experience the magic of Michael Jackson like never before with MJ The Musical. This electrifying, multi Tony Award-winning Broadway sensation takes you behind the scenes, celebrating the King of Pop’s creative brilliance, iconic moves, and legendary sound. Don’t miss this unforgettable theatrical journey in Louisville!
11-14
BOURBON & BEYOND
Music, Food & Bourbon Experiences
Highland Festival Grounds, The KY Fair & Expo Center
Who’s ready for the return of the biggest and most awesome music festival in the country? The fourday extravaganza returns this year with over 120 artists — from Phish, Noah Kahan, and Sturgill Simpson to Nathaniel Rateliff and The Night Sweats, Alabama Shakes, Jack White, Ringo Starr, Goo Goo Dolls, and Third Eye Blind. Combined with bourbon tastings, chef demos, and food experiences this is a “don’t miss out” festival ideal for music lovers, foodies, and bourbon enthusiasts alike.
18-21
LOUDER THAN LIFE MUSIC FESTIVAL
Crank up the volume: Louisville’s Louder Than Life 2025 is set to return bigger and louder than ever with another electrifying lineup. Expect hardhitting rock, blistering metal, and high-octane performances from headline icons alongside emerging heavyweights. It’s three days of pure intensity — don’t miss the sonic siege. Bands include Slayer, Lamb of god, Rob Zombie, Cypress Hill, and more.
19-20, 25-27
STAGEONE FAMILY THEATRE: SERVANT OF TWO MASTERS
Walden Theatre at StageOne
Get ready for laughter, love, and mistaken identity! The Servant of Two Masters is a fast-paced, wildly funny Italian comedy full of slapstick, schemes, and one very hungry servant trying to serve (and outsmart) two bosses at once. A delightful, highenergy romp that’s fun for all ages!
OCTOBER
1
OPENING DAY AT THE SPEED ART PARK
Speed Art Museum
At the Speed Art Museum, a new outdoor setting invites visitors to slow down, gather, and connect with art and nature. Featuring large-scale sculptures and native plantings, this accessible space is designed
to spark curiosity and build community. Join the free festivities with tours, activities, music, and more.
1-NOV 9
DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE: DIAL M FOR MURDER
A fresh take on the edge-of-your-seat mystery that inspired Hitchcock’s masterpiece! This suspenseful crime thriller unravels a tangled web of blackmail, passion, and revenge with surprising twists that will keep you riveted until the very end!
1-26
KENTUCKY SHAKESPEARE: MARY SHELLY’S FRANKENSTEIN
Kentucky Shakespeare Headquarters
Within every man there is a monster; within every monster, a man. But which is which? An eerie evening of ghost stories crackles to life as Mary Shelley unspools her tale of Victor Frankenstein
and his unholy experiment. This gothic tale of love, horror, and the power to create life — and destroy it — awakens in this visceral, original retelling of Frankenstein. Fresh from the brain of Lookingglass Theatre Company Ensemble Member David Catlin, creator of Moby Dick and Lookingglass Alice, comes a galvanic adaptation of this undying story. See for yourself as this latest invention comes to shocking life at Kentucky Shakespeare’s Headquarters on Myrtle Street!
3-5
ST. JAMES COURT ART SHOW
Named the No. 1 Fine Art and Design Show in the country by Sunshine Artist magazine, the St. James Court Art Show returns for its 69th year in 2025. This juried outdoor event features over 600 artists from across the United States set amid historic Victorian homes in Old Louisville. Spanning six sections, the show is one of the nation’s most profitable art festivals.
4
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: RACHMANINOFF, PIANO CONCERTO NO. 3
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Conductor: Robert Spano
Piano: Tony Siqi Yun
Robert Spano conducts a powerhouse program featuring Rachmaninoff’s “Piano Concerto No. 3,” one of the most demanding and electrifying works in the repertoire. Rising star Tony Siqi Yun takes on the challenge, alongside wide-ranging, searching works by Claude Baker and Christopher Theofanidis.
10-11
LOUISVILLE BALLET: DRACULA
The Brown Theatre
Sink your teeth into this deliciously dark adaptation of Bram Stoker’s gothic masterpiece, Dracula. This chilling production explores the haunting tale
of Count Dracula, told through the eyes of the madman Renfield, the haunted Mina, and her devoted husband, Jonathan Harker. Just in time for Halloween, this twisted story of obsession reveals a love gone wrong, from first bite to final breath.
11
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: MORGAN FREEMAN’S SYMPHONIC BLUES
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Morgan Freeman joins the Louisville Orchestra live for the Symphonic Blues Experience. Experience the soul of the Mississippi Delta Blues in this one-ofa-kind concert event. Narrated by the legendary Morgan Freeman, this symphonic journey blends storytelling, live blues performances, and orchestral arrangements to explore the music, culture, and legacy of the Delta — where the blues was born.
14-19
PNC BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE: WATER FOR ELEPHANTS
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Step right up for Water for Elephants, the breathtaking new Broadway musical based on the bestselling novel. With stunning acrobatics, unforgettable music, and a powerful love story set under the big top, this spectacular show brings the magic and drama of the circus to life in Louisville.
17
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: BEETHOVEN & BRAHMS
Ogle Center at Indiana University Southeast Conductor: Teddy Abrams
Beethoven’s lyrical “Violin Concerto” pairs with Brahms’ bold “First Symphony” in this emotionally charged program conducted by Music Director Teddy Abrams.
18
SPEED ART MUSEUM: THE ART OF BOURBON
The Art of Bourbon combines Kentucky’s official art museum with Kentucky’s greatest product to produce the region’s premier bourbon and whiskey auction party! Join live online or in person to bid on some once-in-a-lifetime offerings and support the Speed!
23-26
STAGEONE FAMILY THEATRE: AN EVENING OF POE
Walden Theatre at StageOne
Join us for a delightfully macabre evening of stories and poems by the moody brooder from Baltimore, Edgar Allan Poe. Celebrating their 14th season and having performed previously at the Frazier Museum and Belle of Louisville, Under the Boards Theatre (Kelly Moore, Eric Frantz, and Tony Dingman), in partnership with StageOne Family Theatre, will deliver tales of mystery, murder,love, and loss — just in time for the Halloween season!
24-25
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA:
BEETHOVEN’S “PASTORAL” SYMPHONY
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Conductor: Teddy Abrams Violin: Tessa Lark
Teddy Abrams leads a program that explores innovations both old and new featuring Beethoven’s “Pastoral” Symphony, a timeless tribute to nature innovative in its own day. Tessa Lark brings her signature artistry to the world premiere of Lisa Bielawa’s “Violin Concerto No. 2,” alongside bold new Creators Corps works by Anthony Green and Chelsea Komschlies.
29-30
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA:
DISNEY’S HOCUS POCUS IN CONCERT
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Get into the Halloween spirit with Disney’s Hocus Pocus in Concert! Watch the beloved 1993 film on the big screen while the Louisville Orchestra performs John Debney’s enchanting score live.
NOVEMBER
12-DEC 31
DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE: ELF: THE MUSICAL
Get ready for nonstop holiday cheer with Elf: The Musical, a jolly, candy-coated comedy that follows Buddy, a human raised by elves, on his quest to find his real father. Bursting with laughter, heart, and toe-tapping tunes, this festive favorite reminds us that the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!
6-16
CENTERSTAGE AT TRAGER FAMILY JCC: COMPANY
Stephen Sondheim’s Company is a witty, sophisticated musical comedy that redefines love, marriage, and commitment through the eyes of the perpetually single Bobby. With sharp lyrics, bold structure, and unforgettable ensemble numbers, it’s a hilarious yet poignant look at modern relationships, making it one of Broadway’s most innovative and enduringly relevant musicals.
7-15
KENTUCKY OPERA: LA TRAVIATA
Kentucky Opera Center for Cultural Health
For the first time in over a decade, this iconic Verdi opera returns to Kentucky Opera. This groundbreaking production at the Opera Center will bring you face to face with hope and despair, surrounding you with thrilling music, and gorgeous sets and costumes. Immerse yourself in the world of Violetta, a determined and famed courtesan, who abandons everything for love.
14-15, 20-22
STAGEONE FAMILY THEATRE: PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
Walden Theatre at StageOne
Step into the world of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, where wit meets romance and first impressions are just the beginning. This timeless classic comes to life on stage with sharp dialogue, unforgettable characters, and a love story that still captivates after more than two centuries.
Experience the profound and uplifting music that has resonated with audiences for centuries. Under the skilled direction of Dr. Kent Hatteberg, the Louisville Orchestra will bring the rich tapestry of Handel’s composition to life. From the jubilant “Hallelujah” chorus to the moving solos, every note will resonate with emotion and meaning.
6
CENTERSTAGE AT TRAGER FAMILY JCC: L’CHAIM 135
In honor of Louisville Jewish Community Center’s 135th anniversary, they are reimagining the traditional gala with L’Chaim — a high-energy, immersive celebration of legacy, impact, and the future. With a focus on community building, the campus will transform for guests to experience a vibrant, movable feast, guiding guests through an evening of interactive encounters, diverse entertainment, exceptional food and drink, and joyful surprises.
6-21
STAGEONE FAMILY THEATRE: THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER
Bomhard Theater, The Kentucky Center
When the rambunctious Herdman children descend on the annual Christmas pageant, will it be a disaster as everyone expects, or will the spirit of the season change the hearts and minds of the whole town?
12-21
KENTUCKY OPERA: ALL IS CALM
Kentucky Opera Center for Cultural Health
Back by popular demand, Kentucky Opera’s original 2024 production returns! This a cappella opera is set against the words of WWI soldiers from letters and journals to tell the story of December 1914, when soldiers along the Western Front defied their commanders to call an impromptu “Christmas Truce.”
12-22
LOUISVILLE BALLET: THE BROWN-FORMAN NUTCRACKER
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Discover unbelievable magic and unforgettable memories this holiday season with The BrownForman Nutcracker, a Kentucky-crafted tradition. Journey with Marie and her valiant Nutcracker prince to the Land of the Sugar Plum Fairy to
experience a classic story with distinctly local flair. Choreographed by Val Caniparoli, with magic and illusion design by Marshall Magoon, and featuring Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, The Brown-Forman Nutcracker is the holiday tradition you don’t want to miss.
JANUARY 2-3
DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE: SALUTE TO THE RAT PACK AND FRIENDS
Swing back in time with Salute to the Rat Pack and Friends, a dazzling tribute to the legends of Vegas. Featuring the iconic charm, wit, and music of Frank, Dean, Sammy, and their star-studded circle, this show delivers smooth vocals, timeless hits, and old-school glamour in one unforgettable night of classic entertainment and cool.
7-FEB 15
DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE: THE BUNCO SQUAD ROLLS AGAIN
Get ready for laughs, luck, and a little mischief as The Bunco Squad Rolls Again! This spirited comedy reunites a feisty group of dice-rolling friends for another round of neighborhood drama, unexpected twists, and heartwarming camaraderie. With fastpaced fun and plenty of surprises, it’s a hilarious reminder that friendship — and a little competition — never go out of style.
9
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: MOZART & HAYDN
Ogle Center at Indiana University Southeast
Conductor: Teddy Abrams
Mozart’s radiant “Jupiter” symphony and Haydn’s lively “Oxford” symphony come together for a night of classical elegance and charm.
9-18
KENTUCKY SHAKESPEARE: JANE AUSTEN’S EMMA
Actors Theatre, Pamela Brown Auditorium Emma Woodhouse is clever, educated, and energetic — and in imminent danger of going mad with idleness. In a time when respectable ladies are expected to sit quietly at home, she
desperately needs projects — and prides herself on matchmaking, much to the chagrin of her friend Mr. Knightley. But where Emma’s considerable energies focus, screwball comedy follows. A fresh feminist take on a treasured classic, this Emma breaks down convention, expectation, and even the fourth wall with vibrant comic flair — leading audiences “forward, onward, and upward!”
16-17
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: TEDDY CONDUCTS MAHLER’S NINTH
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center Conductor: Teddy Abrams
Mahler’s “Symphony No. 9” is an emotional and introspective work that balances longing, turbulence, and transcendent beauty. Teddy Abrams and the Louisville Orchestra bring this monumental symphony to life in a performance that captures its depth and intensity.
24-FEB 8
STAGEONE FAMILY THEATRE: THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL
Bomhard Theater, The Kentucky Center
When 16-year-old Percy Jackson discovers that he is the half-blood son of the Greek God, Poseidon, his life takes a dramatic turn as he is plunged into a world much bigger than he could possibly have imagined. Adapted from the best-selling book, “The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan, and featuring a thrilling original rock score, The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is an action-packed mythical adventure “worthy of the gods” (Time Out New York).
31
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: DOLLY PARTON’S THREADS: MY SONGS IN SYMPHONY
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Experience Dolly Parton’s iconic songs like never before in this multimedia symphonic event. With Dolly on screen sharing stories behind her music, the Louisville Orchestra, led by Bob Bernhardt, brings new orchestrations of her greatest hits — including “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” and “I Will Always Love You” — to life alongside guest vocalists and musicians. (Dolly Parton does not perform live in this concert.)
FEBRUARY
6
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: BRUCH & BRUCKNER
Ogle Center at Indiana University Southeast Conductor: Teddy Abrams
Romantic lyricism and symphonic grandeur collide in this dramatic pairing. Bruch’s beloved “Violin Concerto,” lush with passion and melodic warmth, contrasts with Bruckner’s monumental “Symphony No. 4,” his “Romantic” symphony full of sweeping vistas and architectural might. This program reveals the emotional spectrum of late Romanticism, led by Teddy Abrams.
7
KENTUCKY SHAKESPEARE: SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE GALA
21c Museum Hotel
Kentucky Shakespeare’s annual Shakespeare in Love Gala, held at Louisville’s 21c Museum Hotel each February, is a stylish cocktail-attire fundraiser featuring jazz, theatrical performances, poetry buskers, tarot readings, silent auctions, and the announcement of the upcoming Shakespeare Festival in Central Park season — an unforgettable night supporting free Shakespeare in the parks.
10-15
PNC BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE: THE GREAT GATSBY
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Step into the Roaring Twenties with The Great Gatsby, a Tony Award-winning musical that brings F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel to life with dazzling performances and a captivating score. Experience the glamour and intrigue of Jay Gatsby’s world in this unforgettable theatrical event.
13-17
KENTUCKY OPERA: SONGBIRD
Kentucky Opera Center for Cultural Health
In this adaptation of Jacques Offenbach’s La Périchole, two struggling singers and lovers, Songbird and Piquillo, arrive in Prohibition-era New Orleans during Mardi Gras to find success. But the licentious mayor Don Andrés takes advantage of their poverty and arranges a sham marriage so he can have Songbird all to himself. Can they overcome their adversaries to find happiness?
13-14, 20-21
STAGEONE FAMILY THEATRE: YOUNG PLAYWRIGHTS FESTIVAL
Walden Theatre at StageOne
Enjoy an evening of bold storytelling and fresh perspectives! The Young Playwrights Festival will feature seven short plays written and performed by the talented Walden Conservatory students.
19-MAR 8
CENTERSTAGE AT TRAGER FAMILY JCC: FOOTLOOSE
Cut loose and feel the beat with Footloose, the high-energy musical that fuses rebellious teen spirit with infectious ‘80s hits. When city kid Ren brings dance back to a small town trapped by strict rules, tensions rise — and so does the rhythm. Packed with heart, humor, and killer choreography, it’s a toetapping celebration of freedom and self-expression.
20-21
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: SOUNDS OF A NEW NATION
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center Conductor: Teddy Abrams Piano: Jonathan Biss
Celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States, this program explores the evolving American
sound. Highlighting works by Schuman, Billings, and Ives, The Louisville Orchestra captures the nation’s history through music. Pianist Jonathan Biss brings elegance and brilliance to Mozart’s “Piano Concerto No. 9,” a work composed the same year the United States declared independence.
27-28
LOUISVILLE BALLET: SWAN LAKE
The Brown Theatre
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and timeless drama of Swan Lake, one of the world’s most beloved and iconic ballets. Set to Tchaikovsky’s heartwrenching score, this tragic tale tells the story of Prince Siegfried, who falls in love with the ethereal Odette. Transformed into a swan by the evil sorcerer Rothbart, Odette and Siegfried’s love faces an impossible battle against dark forces. Can their love break the curse, or will it lead to their undoing?
28
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: CLOUDS IN MY COFFEE: MUSIC OF JONI MITCHELL, CAROLE KING & CARLY SIMON
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
The music of Joni Mitchell, Carole King, and Carly Simon takes center stage in this symphonic tribute to three of the most influential singer-songwriters of all time. Ted Sperling conducts the Louisville Orchestra in fresh orchestrations of iconic hits like “Both Sides Now,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” and “You’re So Vain,” bringing new depth to these timeless classics. (Joni Mitchell, Carole King, and Carly Simon do not perform live in this concert.)
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MARCH
7
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA:
ERIC WHITACRE IN CONCERT
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Conductor: Eric Whitacre
Violin: Anne Akiko Myers
Director: Louisville Chamber Choir, Kent Hatteberg
Grammy-winning composer Eric Whitacre joins the Louisville Orchestra once again for an evening that features his most moving and cinematic works. Featuring violinist Anne Akiko Myers and the Louisville Chamber Choir, the program includes Whitacre’s signature soundscapes, from the lyrical “Seal Lullaby” to the cosmic expanse of “Deep Field.”
7
SPEED ART MUSEUM: THE SPEED BALL
The Speed Ball is the most significant annual fundraiser for the Speed Art Museum, providing critical support for the mission of the Speed. At the Speed Art Museum, everyone is invited to celebrate art forever. They do this through world-class exhibitions, engaging and relevant community programs, and impactful education and outreach work. White or black-tie attire is required for this event.
10-15
PNC BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Don’t miss the enchanting tale of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. The 30th anniversary of the production brings the beloved story to life with stunning sets, memorable songs, and captivating performances.
20-29
LOUISVILLE BALLET: CHOREOGRAPHERS’ SHOWCASE
Louisville Ballet Studios
Step into the studio for an intimate, behind-thescenes experience at Choreographers’ Showcase, where bold new works and creative innovation take center stage. This dynamic annual production highlights the athleticism and artistry of ballet,
providing a unique opportunity to see Louisville Ballet’s talented artists present a series of thrilling new pieces.
21-APR 4
STAGEONE FAMILY THEATRE: ELEPHANT & PIGGIE’S: WE ARE IN A PLAY!
Bomhard Theater, The Kentucky Center
Get ready for a musical experience, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved, award-winning, bestselling children’s books, that will leave audiences doing the “Flippy Floppy Floory” dance all night long! In Elephant and Piggie’s “We Are in a Play!,” Gerald and Piggie take to the stage in a rollicking adventure that is perfect for young audiences.
24-26
PNC BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE: RIVERDANCE
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Celebrating three decades of this international phenomenon, the show features mesmerizing Irish dance, captivating music, and vibrant storytelling. Don’t miss this limited engagement of the reimagined classic.
APRIL
1-MAY 17
DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE: HAIRSPRAY
Step into the colorful world of Hairspray, where big hair and even bigger dreams collide! This vibrant musical blasts the ‘60s with catchy tunes, high-energy dance, and a powerful message about acceptance and breaking barriers. Get ready to dance, laugh, and cheer for Tracy as she fights for love and equality with unstoppable spirit!
10-17
KENTUCKY OPERA: SCALIA/GINSBURG
Kentucky Opera Center for Cultural Health
This hilarious one-act operatic comedy by attorney Derrick Wang explores the unlikely friendship between U.S. Supreme Court Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Antonin Scalia. Though diametrically opposed on the political spectrum, their shared love of opera and humor sealed their bond as friends. This opera follows their journey through a series of trials as they grapple with their opposing views, legal legacies, and their unlikely friendship.
11
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: COPLAND’S APPALACHIAN SPRING
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Conductor: Teddy Abrams
From sweeping folk melodies to contemporary innovation, this concert bridges past and present. Copland’s Appalachian Spring, performed with the Louisville Ballet, shares the program with the world premiere of a new work by Chelsea Komschlies and Mason Bates’ “Concerto for String Trio,” featuring Time for Three.
16
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: ANNUAL SPRING GALA
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Don’t miss this night to remember. Louisville Orchestra’s annual gala is a highlight of the year, celebrating the orchestra’s impact and raising vital funds to support their mission.
17
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: STEWART COPELAND: POLICE DERANGED
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Drums: Stewart Copeland
Conductor: Bob Bernhardt
Rock legend Stewart Copeland joins the Louisville Orchestra for a high-energy symphonic celebration
of The Police’s biggest hits. With Copeland on drums, guest vocalists, and a full orchestra, this electrifying concert breathes new life into classics like “Roxanne,” “Don’t Stand So Close to Me,” and “Message in a Bottle” — all reimagined (“deranged”) by Copeland himself.
24-25
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA: RHAPSODY IN BLUE
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Conductor: Teddy Abrams
Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” meets bold new sounds in this dynamic concert with Teddy Abrams and the Louisville Orchestra. The evening features the world premiere of Anthony Green’s latest work, marking the culmination of his Louisville Orchestra Creators Corps residency, alongside John Luther Adams’ “An Atlas of Deep Time” — a sweeping exploration of Earth’s geological history.
MAY
5-10
PNC BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE: THE BOOK OF MORMON
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
This nine-time Tony Award-winning satirical comedy follows two mismatched Mormon missionaries on their journey to a remote Ugandan village. Don’t miss this irreverent and hilarious production that has captivated audiences worldwide.
7-16
STAGEONE FAMILY THEATRE: YOUNG AMERICAN SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
Walden Theatre at StageOne
The next generation of actors will bring fresh energy to two of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies. From the witty sparring of Much Ado About Nothing
to the magical mayhem of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, it’s a celebration of love, laughter, and language that’s not to be missed.
7-17
CENTERSTAGE AT TRAGER FAMILY JCC: FIDDLER ON THE ROOF
Tradition takes center stage in Fiddler on the Roof, the beloved musical that balances humor and heartbreak in a changing world. Follow Tevye, a humble milkman, as he navigates family, faith, and shifting cultural tides in pre-revolutionary Russia. With unforgettable songs and rich storytelling, it’s a powerful portrait of love, resilience, and the ties that bind.
23-JUN 27
DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE: RAPUNZEL
Step into the magical world of Rapunzel, a captivating retelling of the classic fairy tale. Follow the adventurous heroine locked away in her tower as she discovers freedom, friendship, and true love. With enchanting songs and dazzling visuals, this musical weaves a timeless story of courage, hope, and breaking free from the ordinary.
27-AUG 9
66TH SEASON OF KENTUCKY SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL IN CENTRAL PARK
C. Douglas Ramey Amphitheater in Central Park
The 66th annual Kentucky Shakespeare Festival returns to Louisville’s Central Park with free nightly performances at the C. Douglas Ramey Amphitheater. Enjoy signature repertory of Shakespeare, Globe Players, Shakespeare-in-Dance, food-trucks, community pre-shows and Late Night Shakes throughout the season.
JUNE
30-JUL 12
PNC BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE: HAMILTON
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
This Tony Award-winning production by Lin-Manuel Miranda blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B, and Broadway to tell the compelling story of America’s Founding Father, Alexander Hamilton.
AUGUST
18-23
BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE: THE OUTSIDERS
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Set in 1967 Tulsa, this gripping adaptation follows Ponyboy Curtis and his Greaser family as they navigate class struggles and search for purpose. Don’t miss this compelling tale of brotherhood and survival.
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