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WINTER 2026 THE GREAT GATSBY PNC Broadway in Louisville February 10 - 15
DOLLY PARTON'S THREADS: MY SONGS IN SYMPHONY Louisville Orchestra January 31
PHOTO BY ANDREW KUNG
PHOTO BY JOHAN PERSSON
ROBERT PLANT SWAN LAKE Louisville Ballet February 27 - 28
WITH SAVING GRACE & SUZI DIAN
Louisville Palace March 29
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THE CURTAIN RISES ON 2026 The theater is a place where we gather to remember who we are. – David Mamet
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here’s something unmistakably hopeful about the start of a new year. The calendar turns, the lights dim, and suddenly we’re ready — once again — for the curtain to rise. As 2026 begins, Louisville’s performing arts scene is stepping confidently into the spotlight, and we couldn’t be more excited about what’s ahead. This issue of Audience Magazine celebrates new beginnings in more ways than one. From fresh leadership at some of our most cherished institutions to new sounds and new stories, the arts are reminding us why they matter. Inside these pages, you’ll find a preview of the Broadway shows heading to Louisville in February and March on page 12, offering everything from spectacle to storytelling at its finest. We also sit down with the newly appointed leaders of Louisville Ballet and Kentucky Opera (pages 18 and 16, respectively) to learn how they’re honoring tradition while charting bold paths forward.
Amy Higgs Managing Editor
Music takes center stage as well. Our practical and fun comparison of today’s top music streaming services lets you can choose the soundtrack that best fits your life (page 22). And speaking of live music and community celebration, don’t miss our profile of festival producer and entrepreneur Trevor Cravens on page 24. As always, our comprehensive Event Outlook on page 7 is packed with can’t-miss performances across theater, music, dance, and comedy — proof that there’s no shortage of reasons to get out and experience the arts firsthand. You’ll also find inspiration for travel near and far, including a Broadway getaway to Miami on page 28, plus a preview of the Louisville Orchestra’s Spring Gala, one of the season’s most anticipated nights of music and philanthropy (page 15). At Audience Magazine, our mission remains the same as we enter this new year: to champion the performing arts and connect audiences with the experiences that move them. We’re deeply grateful to our advertisers and partners, whose continued support allows us to bring our stories to you free of charge — and to keep shining a spotlight on the artists and organizations that make Louisville such a vibrant cultural city. Here’s to new seasons, standing ovations, and a year filled with unforgettable moments. See you in the audience,
G. Douglas Dreisbach Publisher
Amy & Doug
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TABLE of CONTENTS WINTER 2026
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15
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BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE:
LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA:
KENTUCKY OPERA:
LOUISVILLE BALLET:
Jazz, Romance, and Dance
A Night of Music and Celebration
A Homecoming and a New Vision
Homecoming in Motion
AUDIENCE EVENT OUTLOOK | 7
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A NOTE FROM GOV. BESHEAR:
STREAMING SERVICES:
AUDIENCE INTERVIEW:
KENTUCKY TOURISM:
BROADWAY GETAWAY:
Streaming Showdown
Trevor Cravens: The Maestro of Festivals
Winter at Kentucky State Parks
Magic City: Sun, Culture, and Showstoppers
A Year of Arts in our New Kentucky Home
February 10 • GALAXIE BAR NULU.ORG/CLASH 2
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TICKET
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SPECIAL INVITES
SHOW PREVIEWS Subscribe to Visit Audience502.com for articles and information about the arts and entertainment in Louisville including performance previews, reviews, ticket giveaways and more. Subscribe to Audience Magazine for FREE to stay in-the-know about the hottest events and behind-the-scenes looks.
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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
Gov. Andy Beshear Kentucky Tourism, Arts, and Heritage Cabinet PNC Broadway in Louisville HB Productions Louisville Ballet Kentucky Opera Louisville Muhammad Ali Airport
TO READ CURRENT AND PREVIOUS AUDIENCE PLAYBILLS AND PERFORMANCE GUIDES, GO TO ISSUU.COM/AUDIENCE502.
On the Cover: From the queen of country to a city playboy, from a feathery princess to hard rock royalty — this month's cover gives just a taste of some the exciting events coming up on the winter calendar.
GOT AN ARTICLE IDEA? Audience Magazine is a platform for the arts in Louisville. If you have an article idea or something you think we should cover, email ahiggs@theaudiencegroup.com © Copyright 2025. The Audience Group, Inc. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.
Audience® Magazine is published by The Audience Group, Inc. 136 St. Matthews Avenue #200 Louisville, KY 40207 502.212.5177 | Audience502.com 3
The KY Lottery has raised over $5.4 BILLION for college scholarships and grants.
• Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES) • Kentucky Tuition Grant • Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship • Dual Credit Scholarship • College Access Program (CAP) • Kentucky National Guard Tuition Award • Teacher Scholarship 4
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A NOTE FROM GOV. BESHEAR
A YEARin OF ARTS our
NEW KENTUCKY HOME A Note From Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear
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We are also honored to host the Governor’s School for the Arts (GSA) program, which has helped more than 8,000 students develop creative skills and prepared them to be future leaders in Kentucky.
elcome to your New Kentucky Home. Team Kentucky is excited to host you, and we have an exciting year ahead, especially in the arts.
We take pride in our arts here in the commonwealth, and there’s a lot to explore. At the Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea, you will find handcrafted items from over 850 Kentucky-based artists and small businesses in one building. Jewelry, pottery, locally made jams, and books are just a few of the kinds of gifts and souvenirs you can find there. Located just off I-75 in Berea, the center is open seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. In Louisville, Kentucky Performing Arts (KPA) operates three amazing venues: The Kentucky Center, the Brown Theatre, and Old Forester’s Paristown Hall. Each year, KPA draws visitors from all 50 states and several countries, showcasing everything from Broadway shows to concerts to ballet and much more. Head to their website, KentuckyPerformingArts.org, to see the latest shows coming up. Each March, the Kentucky Arts Council hosts the Kentucky Crafted Market, featuring the best in the commonwealth’s visual arts and crafts. The annual market will be held March 6 to 8 at the Kentucky Horse Park’s Alltech Arena. In addition to the artists, there will be live music, kids’ crafts, and plenty of great food from local businesses. For more details, visit the Kentucky Arts Council’s website: ArtsCouncil.Ky.gov.
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The arts play a big role in Kentucky’s cultural legacy as well as our economy, generating $6.9 billion annually and supporting over 51,000 jobs. The arts industry also contributes to Kentucky’s booming tourism industry. After our third straight record-breaking year, with $14.3 billion in economic impact and 97,394 jobs, tourism continues to thrive. To ensure we continue the momentum, Team Kentucky will keep taking intentional steps as part of the New Kentucky Home initiative to build a better Kentucky through tourism and economic development, including supporting Kentucky artists and the industry as a whole.
Whether you attend a performance, visit a special exhibit, or share your own talents, we invite you to share your artistic adventures with us by tagging #MyNewKyHome in your social media posts. I am excited to continue welcoming folks to our commonwealth as we show the world why our New Kentucky Home is the best place to visit, live, work, and thrive. Together, we are building a bright future, and I appreciate you being a part of it.
Andy Beshear
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ANNUAL MEETING REFLECTIONS OF LOUISVILLE MARCH 18, 2026
KENTUCKY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTER 6
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REGISTER HERE
JANUARY
AUDIENCE EVENT OUTLOOK
A NEW YEAR TAKES THE STAGE 9 2026 opens with a dynamic lineup of performances that set the tone for an exciting year of arts and entertainment in Louisville.
Louisville Orchestra Mozart & Haydn Ogle Center at Indiana University SE
From symphonic milestones and Broadway blockbusters to intimate concerts, comedy, ballet, and can’t-miss special events, Louisville’s arts and entertainment calendar is brimming with inspiration. This first Event Outlook of the new year highlights standout experiences happening across the region — perfect for planning ahead or discovering something new.
Mozart’s radiant “Jupiter” Symphony and Haydn’s lively “Oxford” Symphony come together for a night of classical elegance and charm.
Explore our curated picks below, then find even more live music, theater, dance, and many other events in our complete calendar at Audience502.com.
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 fast-paced fun and plenty of surprises, it’s a hilarious reminder that friendship — and a little competition — never go out of style.
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Kentucky Shakespeare Jane Austen’s Emma Actors Theatre of Louisville, 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 — leading audiences “forward, onward, and upward!” W I N T E R
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10 The Stolen Faces: Celebrating the Music of the Grateful Dead Headliners Music Hall The Stolen Faces are a high-energy Grateful Dead tribute band known for rich harmonies, deep jams, and a faithful yet fresh take on the Dead’s catalog. Their shows blend improvisation, authenticity, and crowd-pleasing setlists that capture the spirit of a true Dead experience. 7
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monumental symphony to life in a performance that captures its depth and intensity.
Ten – A Tribute to Pearl Jam Mercury Ballroom Ten is a tribute band that does more than channel the raw intensity and emotional depth of Pearl Jam’s iconic sound. With powerful vocals, dynamic guitars, and faithful recreations of the band’s greatest hits, Ten delivers an electrifying, authentic grunge-rock experience that resonates with fans old and new.
24-FEBRUARY 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).
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The Dave Matthews Tribute Band: Tomorrow We Die Tour Headliners Music Hall
11 Elvis Tribute Artist Spectacular Brown Theatre The Elvis Tribute Artist Spectacular: Birthday Edition is an era-by-era tribute concert celebrating the music and magic of Elvis Presley. The concert begins with the early rockabilly, the military years, the movie years, the ’68 comeback special in black leather, and closes with the Las Vegas concert years.
The Dave Matthews Tribute Band: Tomorrow We Die Tour delivers a faithful and electrifying recreation of Dave Matthews Band’s iconic rock, jazz, and jam-inspired sound. Fans can expect soaring vocals, intricate instrumentals, and a high-energy, crowd-pleasing live experience.
The Prince Experience Mercury Ballroom
16-17 Louisville Orchestra Teddy Conducts Mahler’s Ninth Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center 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 8
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Louisville Orchestra Dolly Parton's Threads: My Songs in Symphony Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
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Step into Black Violin’s Full Circle Tour, where Grammy-nominated duo Wil Baptiste and Kev Marcus redefine the possibilities of music by merging classical depth with hip-hop’s pulse. This tour captures the essence of returning to where it all began — transformed and reimagined.
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Kentucky Shakespeare Shakespeare in Love Gala 21c Museum Hotel
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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.)
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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 season — an unforgettable night supporting free Shakespeare in the Parks.
16 The Prince Experience brings the unmatched energy, style, and musical brilliance of Prince to the stage. With electrifying vocals, iconic dance moves, and spot-on performances of his biggest hits, the tribute delivers a passionate, high-voltage celebration of the Purple One’s legendary sound and showmanship.
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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 Gatsby's world in this unforgettable theatrical event.
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Gary Owen: No Hard Feelings Tour Stand-up Comedy The Brown Theatre
The event includes a featured African American chef, curated wine and spirits tastings, cigars (weather permitting), and free parking for all guests.
Gary Owen has been entertaining audiences for more than two decades with his sharp observational humor and fearless storytelling. Known for his unapologetic, rule-defying style, his material draws from his personal life, time in the military, and the everyday absurdities that connect people across backgrounds.
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? One Act. Sung in French and English.
With their tight harmonies, flawless note for note renditions of Beatles hits, custom–tailored costumes, vintage instruments, Liverpudlian dialect and precise attention to every detail, Abbey Road is proud to present the “Number Ones… and More” show. The show features virtually every No. 1 single the band achieved in the United Kingdom or United States.
Abbey Road presents Number Ones… and more! Beatles Tribute Bomhard Theater, The Kentucky Center
CenterStage at Trager Family JCC Footloose
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.
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.
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Louisville Orchestra Sounds of a New Nation Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center Destination Smooth Jazz w. Bob Baldwin & Johnny Britt Kentucky Center for African American Heritage Experience an unforgettable evening of smooth jazz featuring two world-class artists — internationally acclaimed keyboardist Bob Baldwin and renowned trumpeter and vocalist Johnny Britt.
John Crist is one of today's fast-rising stand-up comedians, with more than 1 billion video views, over 5 million fans on social media and sold-out shows from coast to coast making Pollstar's Top 100 Global Tours list in 2019 with over 197,000 tickets sold.
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Using huge projection photos and original film footage, featuring a full live band performing all the hits including “Mrs. Robinson,” “Cecilia,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “Homeward Bound,” and many more. John Crist Live Stand-up Comedy Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
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StageOne Family Theatre Young Playwrights Festival Walden Theatre at StageOne
The Simon & Garfunkel Story Brown Theatre
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Kentucky Opera Songbird Kentucky Opera Center for Cultural Health
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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 U.S. declared independence. W I N T E R
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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? 9
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The Phil Collins Story Louisville Palace
Houseplant Indie Rock, Funk Headliners Music Hall
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.)
Houseplant is a high-energy indie jamrock band known for blending groovy rhythms, improvisational jams, and atmospheric melodies. Their sound fuses indie rock, funk, and psychedelic influences, creating a vibrant, freeflowing style that feels both experimental and irresistibly catchy.
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Dropkick Murphys For The People Celtic Punk Rock Old Forester’s Paristown Hall Dropkick Murphys proudly remain Boston’s rock ‘n’ roll underdogs turned champions. Since 1996, the boys have created the kind of music that’s meant to be chanted at last call, in packed arenas, and during the fourth quarter, third period, or ninth inning of a comeback rally.
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Louisville Orchestra Eric Whitacre in Concert Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center 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.”
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Louisville Ballet Choreographers’ Showcase Louisville Ballet Studios Step into the studio for an intimate, behind-the-scenes 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.
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StageOne Family Theatre Elephant & Piggie’s: We Are in a Play! Bomhard Theater, The Kentucky Center
PNC Broadway in Louisville Beauty and the Beast Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
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The Phil Collins Story celebrates the legendary pop and rock hits of Phil Collins and Genesis. Audiences can expect a high-energy, nostalgic live show filled with iconic songs, dynamic performances, and unforgettable entertainment.
Get ready for a musical experience, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved, award-winning, best-selling children’s books, that will leave audiences doing the “Flippy Floppy Floory” dance all night long! In Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play! Gerald and Piggie take to the stage in a rollicking adventure that is perfect for young audiences.
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.
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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
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Arkansauce Bluegrass/Folk Zanzabar Arkansauce delivers a high-energy blend of progressive bluegrass, folk, and Ozark-inspired roots music. With driving strings, tight harmonies, and jam-band improvisation, they bring a fresh, genrebending twist to modern Americana.
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PNC Broadway in Louisville Riverdance Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center Celebrating three decades of this international phenomenon,
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MARCH - APRIL the show features mesmerizing Irish dance, captivating music, and vibrant storytelling. Don't miss this limited engagement of the reimagined classic.
promises a moody yet intimate rootsmusic experience.
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Bob Dylan: Rough and Rowdy Ways Tour Blues/Folk/Rock Louisville Palace Bob Dylan returns to the road in 2026 with his “Rough and Rowdy Ways Tour," showcasing songs from his acclaimed 2020 album. Expect a soulful blend of folk, blues, and Americana, delivered with stripped-back arrangements and raw emotional intensity — ideal for longtime fans hungry for poetic storytelling and musical depth.
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Robert Plant with Saving Grace and Suzi Dian Folk/Blues Louisville Palace The rock legend himself, Robert Plant, has cleverly created a meld of folk, blues, Americana, gospel and country for a smooth blend that transcends throughout the night. His upcoming “Spring Fever 2026” U.S. tour supports the 2025 album, “Saving Grace,” and
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Brad Williams: The Tall Tales Tour Comedy Louisville Palace
The Avett Brothers Bluegrass/Folk Louisville Palace
Brad Williams is an accomplished comedian and actor who will bring his "Tall Tales Tour" to the Louisville Palace for a night of sharp, unapologetic standup comedy. Fans can expect a night of hilarious, relatable stories, bold humor, and laugh-out-loud moments that showcase Williams’ signature wit and fearless style.
The Avett Brothers bring their heartfelt blend of folk, bluegrass, and raw acoustic energy to the Louisville Palace. Formed by Scott and Seth Avett with bassist Bob Crawford, the Grammy-nominated trio has built a devoted following with rich harmonies, emotional songwriting, and a catalog that moves effortlessly from tender ballads to foot-stomping anthems.
Know of a great concert, performance or event that you want us to share? Email the information to ddreisbach@theaudiencegroup.com
tailspin ale fest louisville’s winter warmer
TICKETS & MORE INFORMATION T A I L S P I N A L E F E S T. C O M W I N T E R
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PERFORMANCE PREVIEW
JAZZ, ROMANCE, AND DANCE
GET YOUR TICKETS NOW FOR THESE THREE GREAT SHOWS! by Audience Magazine
PERFORMANCE PREVIEW BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE PRESENTS
The Great Gatsby Disney's Beauty and the Beast Riverdance
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PHOTO BY MATTHEW MURPHY AND EVAN ZIMMERMAN
s winter gives way to spring, Broadway in Louisville presents a trio of productions that highlight the range and enduring appeal of musical theater. From the JazzAge introspection of The Great Gatsby to the timeless romance of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, audiences are invited to revisit familiar stories through richly imagined staging and music. Riverdance completes the lineup with a brief return that underscores the power of movement and tradition to captivate across generations.
A JAZZ-AGE CLASSIC REIMAGINED FOR THE STAGE
The Broadway cast of The Great Gatsby
THE GREAT GATSBY Feb. 10-15 | Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center The Roaring Twenties return to Whitney Hall when The Great Gatsby arrives February 10-15, 2026 — an opulent new musical adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s timeless novel. With its blend of romance, longing, and dazzling spectacle, this production offers far more than nostalgia: It’s a fully modern musical interpretation of one of literature’s most enduring stories. Set in 1922, the show follows mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby, whose glittering parties mask a private pursuit of lost love Daisy Buchanan. Narrated through the watchful eye of neighbor Nick Carraway, the musical moves between shimmering excess and quiet emotional reckoning, capturing the tension between aspiration and reality that defines Fitzgerald’s world. Jason Howland and Nathan Tysen’s score infuses the era’s jazz pulse with contemporary musical sensibilities — lush orchestrations, driving rhythms, and ballads that reflect the
story’s emotional depth without feeling museum-bound. Paired with Kait Kerrigan’s crisp book, the production strikes a balance between faithful adaptation and fresh dramatic energy. Director Marc Bruni’s staging, lifted from the Broadway run, unfolds across a fluid, revolving set that shifts from Gatsby’s palatial mansion to shadow-lit gardens and vibrant speakeasies. Projections wash the stage in art-deco color, while the ensemble — decked in period glamour — moves with the polish and precision of a world on the brink of change. What emerges is a production that’s visually rich, musically captivating, and emotionally resonant. Gatsby’s green-light dreams feel newly urgent, a reminder of the hopes we chase and the illusions we protect. For Louisville audiences, it’s an invitation to step into the Jazz Age for an evening — champagne shimmer, soulful storytelling, and a classic American tragedy reframed for a new generation.
Samantha Pauly (center) and cast in the Broadway production of The Great Gatsby. Photo by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman.
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Disney's Beauty and the Beast
Tickets are already moving quickly; visit Louisville.Broadway.com to secure your seat. Gatsby’s world may be built on illusions, but this production offers the real thing: a night at the theater that lingers long after the lights fade.
and atmospheric lighting that bring the castle and its enchanted inhabitants vividly to life. The waltzing ballroom, glowing enchanted rose, and bustling ensemble numbers create a visual experience that envelops audiences of all ages.
A BELOVED CLASSIC RETURNS WITH FRESH SPARK
What sets this revival apart is its balance of grandeur and intimacy. Amid the ornate costumes, sweeping sets, and showstopping ensemble pieces lies a story grounded in empathy, courage, and transformation. The performances — particularly Belle and the Beast — give the familiar narrative renewed emotional resonance, speaking as powerfully to longtime fans as to first-time viewers.
DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST March 10-15 | Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center The tale as old as time takes the stage at Whitney Hall March 10-15, 2026, when the 30th anniversary tour of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast brings its signature blend of romance, grandeur, and theatrical magic back to Louisville. This celebrated production revisits the iconic story with renewed energy, honoring the original while embracing the scale and sophistication of today’s Broadway tours. At the heart of the musical is Belle, the intelligent and independent young woman whose compassion transforms both a cursed Beast and the enchanted castle he inhabits. Their journey unfolds amid a rich tapestry of humor, heart, and emotional discovery — supported by the unforgettable Menken, Ashman, and Rice score that has defined an entire generation of musical theatre: “Belle,” “Be Our Guest,” “Gaston,” and the haunting “If I Can’t Love Her.” Director Robert Jess Roth’s staging remains true to the beloved Broadway production, but this anniversary tour enhances the spectacle with updated scenic design, elegant choreography, Riverdance
For Louisville audiences, Beauty and the Beast offers a night of pure theatrical immersion: a celebration of timeless storytelling, soaring music, and the enduring belief that kindness can change even the darkest circumstances. Tickets are available now at Louisville.Broadway.com. This anniversary tour is poised to charm, captivate, and remind us why this musical remains one of Disney’s most treasured creations.
A THREE-NIGHT CELEBRATION OF RHYTHM AND HERITAGE RIVERDANCE March 24-26 | Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center **Special 3-Show Run**
Riverdance returns to Louisville for a special three-show engagement March 24-26, bringing its signature fusion of Irish dance, global rhythms, and breathtaking precision back to The Kentucky Center. Celebrating more than 30 years of worldwide acclaim, this anniversary production pairs the iconic footwork and sweeping music audiences love with refreshed choreography, vibrant visuals, and a dynamic new cast. From its thunderous ensemble numbers to its soulful solos, Riverdance remains an electrifying theatrical experience — athletic, emotional, and instantly uplifting. With only three performances, this limited run is a rare chance to see a cultural phenomenon renewed for a new generation. Tickets available at Louisville.Broadway.com.
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EVENTS WE LOVE
A NIGHT OF MUSIC AND CELEBRATION Louisville Orchestra’s Spring Gala Returns April 16, 2026 by Audience Magazine
“Jim Welch has been a tireless champion of the Louisville Orchestra, helping us remain resilient while also embracing bold new directions,” said Nathaniel Koch, Interim Executive Director of the Louisville Orchestra. “We are thrilled to honor him at this year’s gala, and to mark the occasion with the artistry of Itzhak Perlman, who represents the very best of what music can inspire.” The cocktail reception begins at 5 p.m., with dinner at 6 p.m. at the Muhammad Ali Center. The concert follows at 8 p.m. at Whitney Hall. Guests are encouraged to wear Kentucky spring formal attire.
Violinist Itzhak Perlman will perform at the gala.
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he Louisville Orchestra will host its fourth annual Spring Gala on Thursday, April 16, 2026 — an elegant evening that pairs fine dining, community celebration, and an unforgettable performance by one of the world’s most beloved musicians, Itzhak Perlman. This year’s gala honors Jim Welch, a longtime supporter whose leadership, generosity, and vision have helped guide the orchestra through one of the most transformative eras in its history. Guests will gather at the Muhammad Ali Center for a cocktail reception and dinner,
Two ticket options are available:
where Welch’s profound impact on the organization and the Louisville arts community will be celebrated. The festivities will culminate at The Kentucky Center’s Whitney Hall with a Gala Concert featuring Perlman performing alongside Music Director Teddy Abrams and the Louisville Orchestra. Known for his warmth, virtuosity, and unmistakable sound, Perlman will perform a program of iconic film music, including John Williams’ poignant theme from “Schindler’s List” and Ennio Morricone’s beloved “Cinema Paradiso.” L O U I S V I L L E
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• Full Gala Experience: Includes the cocktail reception, dinner, and concert. • Concert-Only Tickets: Available beginning October 3 at 10 a.m., offering admission to the Gala Concert at Whitney Hall. Proceeds from the Spring Gala will benefit the Louisville Orchestra’s mission to share extraordinary music and meaningful connections with audiences across Kentucky. For reservations and more information, contact Jessica Underwood at junderwood@louisvilleorchestra.org or call 502-585-9403. 15
LOUISVILLE LEADERS
A HOMECOMING AND A NEW VISION Ben Robinson Takes the Helm at Kentucky Opera by Doug Dreisbach
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hen Ben Robinson stepped into the role of General Director and CEO of Kentucky Opera last fall, it felt less like a new hire and more like the closing of a very personal circle. “Kentucky is where I got my start,” he said during a recent interview. Back in the 2008-09 season, Robinson was a studio artist at the Kentucky Opera — fresh out of school, singing five productions in five different languages. “It was like being shot out of a cannon,” he laughs, “but one thing was crystal clear: this is a town that really has a great investment in the arts." Seventeen years later, after a singing career that took him across the country with various roles in Anchorage, Alaska, New York, New Hampshire, and Colorado, Robinson has returned to Louisville — not as a young artist, but as the person charged with steering one of the city’s flagship arts organizations into its next chapter.
CONNECTING WITH MODERN AUDIENCES His mission is straightforward, if ambitious: Make opera feel as immediate, surprising, and emotionally overwhelming as the best shows you’ll find on HBO or Netflix and or even a Broadway show. 16
the social commentary, the sheer humanity — “There’s so many things that are funny, so many things that feel newly relevant even if they were written 300 years ago.” Breaking down intimidation starts with practical bridges. Every Kentucky Opera production, regardless of language, uses supertitles. “Operatic singing is different from microphone singing in say a Broadway show,” Robinson explains. “We need to build that bridge so the audience is with us on every step of the journey.”
Ben Robinson
“I’ve staked my entire career on finding ways to connect a modern audience to opera,” he says, “making it feel relevant and important while sticking to the core truth of what opera is — fantastic music paired with fantastic storytelling.” That core truth, Robinson insists, is actually the opposite of the art form’s dusty reputation. “Opera is such a lowbarrier art form to access,” he says, “even though its perception is completely the opposite.” The unamplified human voice, delivering heightened drama in real time, creates an emotional punch that no screen can match. Death scenes? Sure, opera does those spectacularly. But the humor,
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But subtitles are only the beginning. Robinson is obsessed with the total audience experience — from the moment a season brochure lands in a mailbox to the post-show buzz in the lobby. He wants productions that surprise, that exceed expectations, that compete with the high-quality entertainment people experience on the phones in their pockets. Part of that means leaning into the intimacy of the Kentucky Opera Center for Cultural Health. “Instead of being 30 feet away from the action, you’re three feet away — in the ‘spit zone,’ so close you can get spit on,” he says. “There’s something thrilling about a giant operatic voice hitting you at point-blank range.”
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PHOTO BY ANDREW KUNG GROUP
Kentucky Opera performs All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 in December 2025.
PHOTO BY ANDREW KUNG GROUP
“The composers are dead,” he says wryly. “What are they going to do — send a bolt of lightning if we do something too crazy?”
BRIDGING NEW WORLDS Yet, he’s equally excited to return to the grand spaces. Next season will feature productions at both the Brown Theatre and The Kentucky Center’s Whitney Hall. “We’re going to transform those spaces and take you to a completely different, unexpected world,” he promises. Robinson is also planning site-specific, roving work that invites audiences to move with the action, to see a piece from multiple angles, to feel enveloped by it. And because most of the standard repertory is in the public domain, directors have extraordinary freedom to reimagine.
That flexibility will be on full display this season. February brings Songbird (Feb. 13, 15 & 17), a jazz-inflected, speakeasy-set adaptation of Jacques Offenbach’s classic rom-com La Périchole, where two struggling singers and lovers arrive in Prohibition–era New Orleans to find success. Then April 10, 12, 16 and 17, the company presents Scalia/ Ginsburg, a hilarious one-act operatic comedy by Derrick Wang that explores the unlikely friendship between U.S. Supreme Court Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Antonin Scalia.
WHAT TO EXPECT THIS SEASON For first-timers wary of jumping in, Robinson has simple advice: do five minutes of homework. “Listen to a few arias on YouTube, skim the synopsis — like you’d listen to a cast album before seeing a musical. Knowing a little bit helps you get invested.” Then buy a ticket, come to the Opera Center, sit K E N T U C K Y
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three feet from a world-class singer, and let the unamplified voice do the rest. “This season, audiences are going to experience opera up close in a nontraditional space, in highly theatrical productions that rival all the theater, Broadway, and orchestra events they regularly attend,” he says. “They’re going to feel the impact of the music and the drama in a way they really don’t expect. And when people experience opera in the right way, they want to come back for more.” Seventeen years after his Louisville debut, Robinson is betting everything on that addictive power — the power of a 400-year-old art form that can still stop a 2026 audience dead in its tracks. Welcome home, Ben. Louisville can’t wait to see (and hear) what happens next. For tickets and information, visit KyOpera.org.
Scan to listen to the full interview.
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AUDIENCE INTERVIEW
HOMECOMING IN MOTION
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR REIMAGINES SWAN LAKE FOR LOUISVILLE BALLET by Doug Dreisbach
PERFORMANCE PREVIEW
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Swan Lake February 27-28 | Brown Theatre
hen Louisville Ballet announced that Kentucky native Anthony Krutzkamp would become its new Artistic Director, the excitement was immediate and well-earned. A celebrated former principal dancer and a rising leader in the national ballet world, Krutzkamp brings with him not only extraordinary artistic experience but a deep personal connection to the state he still calls home. Sitting down for our interview, he admitted that the position felt both long-awaited and almost unreal. “I was actually worried I’d never make it back home,” he said. “There are probably about 100 legitimate artistic director jobs in ballet. When one opens, you apply. I’d been waiting for this one since I saw the last transition. As soon as I got the email from Leslie Smart, the CEO … I applied within three days.” After a conversation with his wife and kids, he sent in his résumé, marking the beginning of his return. Krutzkamp comes to Louisville after eight years with the Sacramento Ballet and a long performance career that includes a decade as principal dancer with the Cincinnati Ballet and leadership roles in Kansas City. His artistic pedigree spans markets of all sizes, a background that gives him insight into both the universal and deeply local nature of the performing arts. “There are these little differences across markets you’d never expect,” he shared. “In my last job, Saturday matinees would sell out first. Here in Louisville, it’s completely different — Friday sells out first, then Saturday night, then Saturday matinee. People do different things here on Sundays, and kids’ sports schedules vary. Navigating those rhythms is very different from city to city.”
Anthony Krutzkamp in rehearsal with Elizabeth Abbick Pemberton for The Brown-Forman Nutcracker.
creativity with a sense of partnership and play. For him, the dancers are always the foundational spark. “It always comes down to the dancers,” he said. “If you’re really working with an artist and being extremely creative, they’ve got to help you. It’s like ping-pong. I hit the ball, they hit it back, and together we go through the creative process.” He recalled creating his first Swan Lake and the challenge of designing a moment where audiences could witness Odile’s transformation from princess to abducted victim to black swan.
A TRUE ARTISTIC COLLABORATION
“Working with the dancers to figure out how that would happen was amazing,” he said. “I usually come in with an overarching vision, down to smaller moments I want to reach, but the true details come from working hand-in-hand with the artists.”
Understanding audiences is only part of the equation for Krutzkamp. As an artist and choreographer, he speaks about
That collaborative spirit is now fueling one of his first major artistic undertakings in Louisville: a new production of
Sarah Bradley as Odette in Swan Lake. Photo by Andrew Kung.
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Ballet is storytelling without words. It’s pantomime, technique, pirouettes, partnering — it’s movement woven into narrative. I view our company as a museum of art. − Anthony Krutzkamp
Mikelle Bruzina as Odile, Joseph Cox as Siegfried, and Noel Dupuis as Von Rothbart in Louisville Ballet's Swan Lake production from 2005.
Swan Lake, coming to the Brown Theatre February 27-28. While the ballet is one of the most iconic works in the history of the art form, Krutzkamp is approaching it with a reverence for tradition paired with bold new visual and choreographic elements. The production will feature entirely new sets and props designed by Carl Anderson, all built locally. “They’re creating everything here in Louisville — the rock, the entire design of the white acts, the chairs, benches, crossbows, sceptres for the ball … everything besides the costumes,” he explained. The costumes, though not made here, are special in their own right: “We rented them from Philadelphia Ballet, and it’s the first time they’ve ever rented them out. They’re gorgeous.” Choreographically, Krutzkamp is sharing the work with former Artistic Director, Mikelle Bruzina, allowing both to create in their own studios before bringing the production together. He will set the principal roles — Odette/Odile, Rothbart, and Siegfried — while Bruzina handles other sections, including character dances and corps de ballet moments. But even with his fresh approach, Krutzkamp recognizes the sacred elements of a classic. “There are certain parts you shouldn’t touch,” he said. “The partnering section in the third act with the black swan — that’s iconic. Maybe you can nuance it, but you respect it. Solos and patterns can be made more interesting, and the ending of the fourth act can vary. But there’s a moment in the music when the spell must be broken. Don’t mess with that. The nouns and verbs are fixed — the rest is yours.” For newcomers who may be intimidated by ballet’s terminology or tradition, Krutzkamp believes Swan Lake is the perfect entry point. 20
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“Ballet is storytelling without words,” he explained. “It’s pantomime, technique, pirouettes, partnering — it’s movement woven into narrative. I view our company as a museum of art. We’re the contemporary art museum, the fine art museum, the exploratory museum. For our audience and our dancers, seeing a classic work like this and then performing contemporary work two months later really shows the versatility and the education of our city.”
A TIMELESS STORY FOR BOTH VETERAN AND NEW AUDIENCES Louisville Ballet’s strength lies not only in its productions but in the people who bring them to life. “The best part is these dancers live here,” Krutzkamp said. “They may have moved from somewhere else, but we have 24 in the main company and 22 in the studio company. They shop here, they have apartments and houses here. They’re a part of this community.” As for how he hopes audiences will connect with this new Swan Lake, he believes the emotional depth of the story — and the Ballet’s execution — will make it resonate with both longtime ballet lovers and first-time attendees. “It’s a work everyone should see because of how important it is to the art form,” he said. “It’s a story of love and perseverance. It’s heartbreaking. And not every city can do this work at this level. We’re special.” Before we wrapped up, I asked Krutzkamp what audiences can expect from Louisville Ballet in the coming seasons as his influence takes shape. “The change here will be palpable as you come to each show,” he replied. “Wear two pairs of socks — I’m gonna blow one pair off.” If his passion, clarity, and contagious enthusiasm are any indication, Louisville audiences are in for an exciting new chapter — one rooted in tradition, driven by innovation, and guided by a leader who has finally come home. Tickets and information for Swan Lake at the Brown Theatre on February 27-28 and other performances can be found at LouisvilleBallet.org.
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Scan to listen to the full interview.
Spell. Laugh. Repeat.
FEB 18 MARCH 29
812-288-8281 DERBYDINNER.COM
Eats The restaurants below are certified and recommended by Audience as premium places for pre-show dinner, drinks or mingling. Let them know we sent you! Area of Town
Restaurant Name
Reservations
Phone
Address
Notes
Downtown
Repeal Oak-Fired Steakhouse
Yes
(502) 716-7372
101 West Main St.
Upscale steakhouse on historic Whiskey Row
Downtown
Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse
Yes
(502) 584-0102
325 West Main St. (Galt House Hotel)
Premium steaks & seafood
Downtown
Mayan Cafe
Yes
(502) 566-0651
813 E. Market St.
Farm-to-table Mexican & Pan-Latin cuisine
Downtown
Walker’s Exchange
Yes
(502) 272-1834
140 N. 4th St. (Galt House Hotel)
Casual Southern Contemporary
Crescent Hill
Pat’s Steakhouse
Yes
(502) 893-2062
2437 Brownsboro Rd.
Premium steaks since 1958
Crescent Hill
Porcini Restaurant
Yes
(502) 894-8686
2730 Frankfort Ave.
Fine Northern Italian cuisine
Highlands
Jack Fry’s
Yes
(502) 452-9244
1007 Bardstown Rd.
High-end Southern fare & cocktails
Check out our full list of preferred restaurants at Audience502.com.
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STREAMING SERVICES
STREAMING SHOWDOWN Which music app fits Louisville’s soundtrack? by Audience Magazine
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f you’re the type who times your day by a playlist — drive-time jazz to get downtown, a pre-show jam-out before a concert — the streaming service you choose matters. They all play the hits, but differences in price, sound quality, discovery tools, and device support change the experience. Here’s a straightforward comparison of the major players (Spotify, Apple Music, Pandora, Amazon Music, YouTube Music) plus a quick look at TIDAL and Deezer so you can pick the best fit for your ears and your wallet.
Discovery king, social features, lots of tier Price: Individual ~$11.99/month (student and family tiers available; free ad-supported tier also offered). Why people like it: Spotify allows users to make playlists, queue songs, and even share jam sessions with friends and other users. Its algorithmic discovery (Daily Mixes, Discover Weekly, Release Radar) is also widely praised — it’s great for finding new local bands, curated playlists and mood-based mixes. The app’s social features (shared playlists, collaborative lists, and newer messaging/“jams” features) make it a natural for communities and friends who swap music. Spotify also offers a robust free tier for casual listeners. Cons: Audiophiles sometimes complain about bitrate/quality compared with 22
lossless services (though Spotify launched a lossless tier rollout plans and has been iterating). Heavy ad interruptions on the free tier and occasional algorithm misses (repeating tracks) can annoy listeners. Best for: Listeners who want discovery, playlists, podcasts, and a social, crossplatform experience.
tier or a more visible social layer. Also, while the sound-quality options are excellent, they can be confusing to set up for non-technical users. Best for: iPhone/Apple device owners and listeners who prioritize sound quality and polished editorial curation.
Radio-first, super simple for casual listening
Polished ecosystem, lossless streaming, spatial audio Price: Individual ~$10.99/month; student and family plans available. No true free tier (trial offers exist). Why people like it: Apple Music shines for listeners invested in Apple’s ecosystem (iPhone, Apple Watch, HomePod). It includes lossless streaming and spatial audio with Dolby Atmos on many tracks — a big draw if you own decent headphones or home audio gear. The curated editorial playlists and exclusive artist content also appeal to fans. Cons: If you live outside the Apple ecosystem, some features feel less seamless. Some users miss a robust free
Price: Pandora Plus and Pandora Premium tiers (around $4.99-$12.99/ month depending on plan and purchase method). Free, ad-supported radio also available. Why people like it: Pandora’s DNA is radio and personality-driven stations. If you want a “set-it-and-forget-it” experience that generates a stream tailored to an artist or mood, Pandora’s algorithmic stations are easy and reliable. The free radio-style listening is still a draw for many users. Cons: Fewer on-demand features (depending on the plan), and the library/ on-demand interface feels less modern
HOW TO CHOOSE: A Quick Checklist • Want discovery and social sharing? Try Spotify. • Deep in the Apple ecosystem or want spatial audio? Pick Apple Music. • Prefer radio-style, low-effort listening? Pandora fits. • Already a Prime/Alexa household? Amazon Music is convenient. • Love music videos and rare live clips? YouTube Music/Premium is for you.
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than Spotify/Apple Music. Audiophiles will note lower audio fidelity compared with lossless services
Spotify’s, though Amazon continues to close the gap. Price hikes over time have also irked some users.
Best for: Drivers, casual listeners, and people who prefer radio-style discovery to playlist hunting.
Best for: Prime members, Alexa households, and people who want one-bill convenience.
Value for Prime members, big catalogue
Music videos plus on-demand audio
Price: Prime members typically pay about $10.99/month for Amazon Music Unlimited; non-Prime about $11.99/ month; family plans available.
Price: YouTube Music/Premium pricing varies; music-only plans and YouTube Premium run near $10.99-$13.99/ month for individuals depending on the bundled option.
Why people like it: If you already pay for Amazon Prime, Amazon Music often represents good value and integrates tightly with Alexa and Fire devices. The service carries a large catalog and is pushing improved sound-quality tiers, making it convenient for smarthome listeners. Cons: The app experience and music discovery tools aren’t as polished as
Why people like it: YouTube Music is great if you care about music videos, rare live clips, covers, and remixes that don’t always show up elsewhere. The integrated YouTube ecosystem makes it easy to switch between video and audio. Background play and offline downloads (YouTube Premium) are big pluses for mobile users.
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Cons: Slightly higher price if you want the full YouTube Premium bundle; the app’s music discovery can feel video-first rather than playlist-first. Best for: Fans who value music videos, live footage and the massive userupload catalog. Streaming services are more alike than different — massive catalogs, similar price bands, and cross-platform apps. The deciding factors are features (lossless audio, podcasts, music videos), ecosystem fit (Apple, Amazon, Google), and how you discover music (algorithmic playlists vs. human curation vs. radio). For Louisville readers building a soundtrack for commuting, gig nights, or a slow Sunday listening session, pick the service that matches the way you find new music, and take advantage of free trials to test-drive the listening experience before you subscribe. And in the end, you can always cancel and go to another with the click of a button. Happy Listening!
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AUDIENCE INTERVIEW
THE MAESTRO of FESTIVALS A Conversation with Event Producer & Entrepreneuer Trevor Cravens by Doug Dreisbach
A Goat Race at Bock Fest, on March 28
Scan to listen to the full interview.
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ouisville’s festival season never really ends — and if you’ve ever wondered who’s behind many of the city’s most energetic, eclectic, and wildly fun community events, look no further than local entrepreneur and event producer Trevor Cravens. As co-owner of HB Productions and Crowler Catering, Cravens and his business partner, Tish Gainey, have spent the last decade shaping the city’s cultural calendar with beloved traditions like Tailspin Ale Fest, NuLu Bock Fest, Germantown Oktoberfest, St. Matthews Summerfest, the Bowman Aviation Festival, and nearly 30 other vibrant experiences. Cravens is the kind of person who talks about events with the enthusiasm of someone describing their child’s first steps. His passion is infectious, and his schedule? Nearly unimaginable. “I feel like I’m busy until I hear what you’re up to,” I joked when we sat down for our conversation. “How do you juggle it all?” “We work a lot,” Cravens said with a laugh. “But we’ve also been fortunate to have incredible help — friends, volunteers, and a team that loves these events as much as we do. And when you walk into an event you’ve planned for months and see everyone having fun, it’s all worth it.” 24
THE BIRTH OF A BEERFUELED TRADITION Cravens’ path to event production began in 2014 with the launch of Tailspin Ale Fest, now considered one of the nation’s premier beer events and a bucket-list festival for craft beer followers. Before moving into the event world full-time, Cravens worked with Draft Magazine, where he first developed a love for craft beer culture. That background led him and Gainey to the idea that would change their careers. “It’s a cliché, but Tailspin was literally planned on a napkin at a bar,” Cravens recalled. He and Gainey were sitting at the former Louisville Beer Store in NuLu waiting to meet Sam Calagione, founder of Dogfish Head Brewery. “We were talking about Louisville festivals and realized there wasn’t a winter beer event. So, we decided we needed to put one on.” That scribble on a napkin turned into a festival that now attracts 70 to 80 breweries from Kentucky, across the
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region, and around the country. One thing that makes Tailspin exceptional is the brewery owners and brewmasters themselves often attend. “If New Belgium comes in from Colorado, you’re talking to an actual brewery rep or owner,” Cravens said. “That enhances the experience. People don’t just drink — they learn.” Tailspin returns March 7 at Bowman Field, drawing thousands of attendees with over 300 beers, live music, food trucks, the famous pretzel necklaces, and an atmosphere that feels like a reunion of Louisville’s craft beer family. Tickets typically sell out by mid-February, and Cravens expects this year to be no different.
GOATS, BEER & NATIONAL TV: THE RISE OF NULU BOCK FEST Right on the heels of Tailspin comes one of Louisville’s quirkiest and most beloved street festivals: NuLu Bock Fest, held this year on March 28.
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“It’s honestly one of my favorite events,” Cravens said. “The goat races are wildly entertaining. People love them.”
Oktoberfest, or Bowman Field for Tailspin and the Aviation Festival, Cravens believes the setting is essential.
When the festival first launched, attendance hovered around 5,000. But the year Louisville hosted NCAA Tournament games downtown, the crowd skyrocketed to nearly 25,000. And the goat races? They became a phenomenon.
“Location is just as important as the programming,” he said. “People love being in places they’re not normally allowed to gather.”
“We’ve had companies sponsor goats as team-building activities. We’ve had families do it for birthdays. One sponsor even bought their goat afterward — they loved it so much they took it home.” But the biggest news? ESPN picked up the goat races for its Ocho programming this year, meaning NuLu Bock Fest — and Louisville — will be showcased to viewers around the world. “It’s just another way to put Louisville on the map for something beyond bourbon,” Cravens said.
CLOSING STREETS, UNITING COMMUNITIES In addition to various NuLu events and Tailspin, HB Productions creates experiences all across Louisville. Cravens and Gainey currently produce 32 events annually, closing streets, transforming public spaces, and activating neighborhoods in ways that make
The St. Matthews Summerfest, for example, doubles as a community fundraiser and features live music, family activities, and a wing competition supporting the St. Matthews Fire Department Benevolence Fund. Germantown Oktoberfest, meanwhile, has become a neighborhood staple filled with music, food, stein-holding contests, and an unmistakable sense of local pride.
FROM SHUTDOWN TO STARTUP One of the most fascinating chapters of Cravens’ entrepreneurial journey came in 2020, when the pandemic shut down the entire event industry overnight. “We had Tailspin on March 7. I went to a concert a few days later, and then everything shut down,” Cravens said. Events disappeared. Revenue vanished. And Cravens and Gainey had to act. By mid-April, they launched Crowler Catering, a creative pivot born from necessity — beginning with handmade
They partnered with local restaurants to help sell food and deliver meals across the city. What began as a survival strategy grew into a thriving stand-alone catering business. Today, Crowler Catering serves corporate events, weddings, festivals, and private parties — often bringing along their converted ambulance, cleverly named Thirst Aid. “It’s grown tremendously, and it complements our event work perfectly,” Cravens said.
LOOKING AHEAD: A YEAR PACKED WITH FESTIVALS For anyone wanting to plan their Louisville social calendar, Cravens recommends visiting HBProductionsLLC.com for details on all events, and CrowlerCatering.com for catering needs. The company also posts videos and recaps from past festivals on its YouTube channel, @HBProductionsLLCKY. Audience Magazine will continue listing all HB Productions events on Audience502.com and in our Arts & Entertainment Calendar. Before we wrapped, I asked Cravens what he hoped people would take away from attending one of his events. “Get out and experience events,” he said. “Even if you’re not a beer lover, there’s something for everyone. It’s the ultimate social experience. You get to see your
ESPN picked up the goat races for its Ocho programming this year... It’s just another way to put Louisville on the map for something beyond bourbon. − Trevor Cravens
Louisville feel like a big city with a local heart. “We close down a lot of streets,” Cravens admitted with a grin. “Metro definitely knows our name — for better or worse.” But the locations are intentional. Whether it’s Market Street for Bock Fest, Goss Avenue for Germantown
cocktails and craft beer deliveries at a time when restaurants could only serve drinks to-go. “Everyone was giving cocktails in soup containers with tape on top,” Cravens remembered. “We bought a canning machine and started canning cocktails and craft beers.” W I N T E R
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friends, meet new people, and just enjoy being part of the community.” With a year full of festivals ahead — and ESPN cameras rolling through NuLu — Louisville can thank Trevor Cravens and his team for continuing to bring the city together, one unforgettable event at a time. 25
KENTUCKY TOURISM
WINTER AT KENTUCKY STATE PARKS
John James Audubon State Park Museum
Carter Caves State Resort Park
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eady for cozy season in our New Kentucky Home? Pull on a sweater, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and nestle up to the fireplace in your winter cottage at a Kentucky state park. With fewer crowds, better visibility, and no pesky mosquitoes, winter is a wonderful time of year to visit Kentucky State Parks. Bare branches allow for unparalleled views of the scenery, and fewer fellow visitors mean you are better able to hear and see birds and wildlife.
WINTER FUN AT KENTUCKY STATE PARKS: Take a Winter Cave Tour! Explore the underground wonders of Carter Caves State Resort Park this season. Take a guided tour of Cascade Cave or X Cave on Wednesday through Sunday, now through March 1. Be sure to check out some of the special events planned, such as the Winter Adventure Weekend (January 22-25), Haunted Winter Expedition (February 7) and the Backyard Bird Count (February 15). 26
Book a cottage at John James Audubon State Resort Park! Birdwatchers can view seven types of woodpeckers, waterfowl, mixed flocks, and more. The Audubon Wetlands boardwalk offers a wonderful place to view beavers, otters, turtles, frogs, fish, and many other wild creatures. Be sure to stop by the museum, which includes the Audubon family story and displays of over 200 objects, including Audubon’s stunning masterwork, The Birds of America. Register for the Sandhill Crane Tour and Nature Watch Weekend at Barren River Lake State Resort Park! Each year, thousands of sandhill cranes make Barren River Lake a stop as they congregate in huge numbers to migrate. The lake’s exposed mud flats in winter provide the birds with a perfect spot to rest and socialize as they settle in for the night. The event includes guided van tours at sunset and sunrise on Saturday, January 24, and sunrise on Sunday, January 25. There will also be nightly presentations to enjoy, so be sure to stay for the whole weekend.
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Breathe in the clean mountain air at Natural Bridge State Resort Park! Oneand two-bedroom cottages are available. Additionally, the Hemlock Lodge is open year-round. In addition to the famous Natural Bridge, you can explore the Red River Gorge area and enjoy the historic Nature Center. Winter birdwatching can make it easier to spy various species of woodpeckers, kinglets, nuthatches, wrens, and sparrows. The Sandstone Arches Restaurant boasts gorgeous scenery, and the Trails End Tavern serves Kentucky wine and spirits. Whichever state park you choose for your winter getaway, there are plenty of wonderful options. Be sure to tag @KentuckyStateParks and #MyNewKYHome in your social media posts. Note that most Kentucky State Parks are operating under winter hours through the spring. Before you head out, check the park’s webpage or call ahead for winter operations and availability: parks.ky.gov.
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N O W S H O WI N G A CR O S S K E NT U CK Y
T H E K E N TU C K Y AR TS S P E CI AL L I C E NS E P L A T E ! AV AI L AB LE AT Y O U R C O U N TY C L E R K ’ S O F FI C E A N D AT DR I VE . K Y. G O V. S H O W Y O U R S U P P O RT FO R T H E A R T S A N D H E L P K FT A A DVO C A T E F O R A R TS A N D A R T S E D UC A T IO N .
Kentuckians for the Arts is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization.
kyforthearts.org
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BROADWAY GETAWAY
SUN, CULTURE & SHOWSTOPPERS A Nonstop Escape from Louisville to Miami
Celebrating 20 years of Broadway in Miami, the Arsht Center and Broadway Across America are rounding out their season with three major productions to South Florida: Moulin Rouge! The Musical, The Notebook, and the return of the blockbuster The Book of Mormon. Pair the shows with Miami’s vibrant food scene, glamorous nightlife, beaches, and art-filled neighborhoods, and you have the perfect Broadway Getaway.
THE ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER: THE CULTURAL HEART OF MIAMI
Adrienne Arsht Center
• FI’LIA (SLS Brickell) • Amara at Paraiso • Margot Natural Wine Bar • The Wharf Miami • Blackbird Ordinary
children each year. For Broadway lovers, the Ziff Ballet Opera House offers an elegant, spacious venue with Miami’s signature flair — modern, vibrant, and welcoming. Located downtown, the Arsht is surrounded by restaurants, bars, and cultural landmarks, making it easy to pair your theater night with a memorable evening out.
BETWEEN THE BEACH & BROADWAY When you're not at the theater, Miami offers endless explorations:
There are three blockbuster productions coming up that are well worth planning a trip around.
Opened in 2006 and designed by famed architect César Pelli, the Adrienne Arsht Center stands as a symbol of Miami’s cultural transformation. Now one of the country’s premier performing arts complexes, the Arsht hosts more than 300 events annually — from jazz and classical concerts to flamenco festivals, community celebrations, and major Broadway tours. Its impact on Miami has been profound. The Arsht helped spark billions of dollars in downtown redevelopment and has become home to dozens of free programs, plus more than 100 educational experiences serving 80,000 28
PHOTO BY JUSTIN NAMON/COURTESY ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER
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f you’re craving a getaway that mixes culture, coastlines, and world-class Broadway, Miami should be high on your list. Thanks to easy nonstop flights from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, a long weekend in the Magic City is an effortless escape — and the 2025-26 Broadway season at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts makes it even more tempting.
• Moulin Rouge! The Musical: March 17-22, 2026 • The Notebook: May 5-10, 2026 • The Book of the Mormon: June 9-14, 2026
YOUR PERFECT GETAWAY
DINING & NIGHTLIFE One of the joys of a Miami Broadway weekend is that the theater is only part of the experience. Downtown Miami, Brickell, Wynwood, and the Biscayne waterfront offer endless options for pre-show dining or post-show cocktails — all minutes from the Arsht. • SUGARCANE Raw Bar Grill
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• Wynwood Arts District • South Beach • Brickell & Downtown • Little Havana
Miami’s 2025-26 Broadway season offers something for every theater fan, from the high-voltage spectacle of Moulin Rouge! to the sweeping romance of The Notebook and the comedic brilliance of The Book of Mormon. With direct flights from Louisville and endless dining, sightseeing, and beachside relaxation, a Broadway weekend in Miami is the perfect blend of culture and sunshine. For ticket information and updated season details, visit arshtcenter.org.
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KENTUCKY
Discover the beauty of the Bluegrass State by exploring work from over 850 Kentuckybased artists and small businesses in one convenient location. Open Daily 9 am - 6 pm. Cafe open 9 am - 4 pm. Learn more at kentuckyartisancenter.ky.gov 200 Artisan Way, Berea, KY 40403 “Good Morning Neighbor” watercolor by Pat Banks