Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms and Spin Doctors
Get ready to relive the best of ’90s rock and alt-jam magic this fall when Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms and Spin Doctors roll into Iroquois Amphitheater in Louisville on September 8 for one unforgettable night of hits and high-energy performance. This co-headlining date — part of a nationwide summer tour — unites three bands synonymous with memorable melodies, harmonica fire, and sing-along classics that helped define a generation.
Tyler Childers & The Lumineers to Headline Railbird Music Festival 2026
One of Kentucky’s biggest music festivals is coming back for a much anticipated music weekend! The Railbird Music Festival is coming back to The Infield at Red Mile in Lexington June 6–7, 2026 with a lineup topped by headliners Tyler Childers and The Lumineers.
This year’s festival promises a mix of Americana, folk, country, and rock, featuring more than 30 artists across three stages — including Zach Top, Ella Langley, Caamp, Mt. Joy, Sam Barber, Muscadine Bloodline, Stephen Wilson Jr., Houndmouth, Robert Earl Keen, Shane Smith & The Saints, The Wallflowers, Margo Price, Watchhouse, Shakey Graves, Waylon Wyatt, Evan Honer, and more.
Louisville Orchestra Announces Free Spring Community Concerts in March
Louisville Orchestra announces an expanded slate of free community concerts this spring, featuring OrKIDStra: The Science of Sound on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at Whitney Hall and Music Without Borders: Voices, Rhythm, and Culture with neighborhood performances on March 26 and 27, 2026. Together, these programs reflect the orchestra’s long standing commitment to accessibility, education, and meaningful connection through live orchestral music. Through its OrKIDStra and Music Without Borders programs, the orchestra continues to remove financial and cultural barriers, inviting families, students, and neighborhood audiences to experience world class music in welcoming, familiar spaces.
Broadway in Louisville Kicks Off 2026 With a Bang – Check Out Our Previews
Broadway in Louisville kicks off 2026 with a trio of unforgettable productions that bring classic stories, iconic music, and global spectacle to Whitney Hall. From Jazz Age glamour of The Great Gatsby to Disney magic with Beauty and The Beast and pulse-pounding Irish dance with Riverdance, these shows promise a winter of must-see theater.
Comedian Nikki Glaser Coming to Kentucky Center October 3
Comedian Nikki Glaser has announced The Stunning Tour, making 29 stops across Europe and North America beginning in June, including The Kentucky Center in Louisville Saturday, October 3, 2026.
Tickets for the newly added shows go on sale Friday, January 9 at 10am (local time) with presale beginning Wednesday, January 7 at 10am (local time) at NikkiGlaser.com and KentuckyPerformingArts.org.
The Maestro of Louisville Festivals: A Conversation with Event Producer & Entrepreneur Trevor Cravens
Louisville’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.
We caught up with Cravens to hear about the in’s and out’s of making great events for the Louisville community. Listen to it here:
A Homecoming and a New Vision: Ben Robinson Takes the Helm at Kentucky Opera
When Ben Robinson stepped into the role of General Director and CEO of Kentucky Opera this 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.”
Listen to the full interview here:
A Night of Music and Celebration: Louisville Orchestra’s Spring Gala Returns April 16, 2026
The 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, where Welch’s profound impact on the organization and the Louisville arts community will be celebrated.
A Homecoming in Motion: New Artistic Director Anthony Krutzkamp Reimagines Swan Lake for Louisville Ballet
When 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.
We caught up with Krutzkamp to hear about his career and what he is looking forward to about his new role at the Louisville Ballet. Listen to the interview here:
Share Your Review – We Want to Hear From You!
You’re the Star of the Show!
We would love to hear about your recent live entertainment experience — whether it was a Broadway in Louisville performance, a concert at the Palace, or a night under the stars at Kentucky Shakespeare, let us know what you thought!
Share your thoughts below — we may feature your review (and your first name and city) in Audience Magazine or on Audience502.com!
Brett Shepherd, Chief Development Officer, Appointed Fund for the Arts Interim President/CEO
Fund for the Arts’ Board of Directors has appointed Brett Shepherd as the Interim President and CEO of the organization, starting January 1, 2026. Shepherd has served as the organization’s Chief Development Officer since August 2022.
In June 2025, current President and CEO Andre Kimo Stone Guess announced his plan to depart Fund for the Arts at the end of June 2026, completing five years at the helm of the organization. Guess will work alongside Shepherd in the transition period.
“Brett has been critical to the success of Fund for the Arts since starting in 2022, and I am so grateful for him for stepping into this leadership role,” said Guess. “I’m excited to work together to ensure a smooth transition for our stakeholders and staff.”
Lindsey Stirling Brings Her High-Energy “Snow Waltz Tour” to the Yum! Center — and Louisville Fans Are Thrilled
International violin sensation Lindsey Stirling is set to bring her electrifying “Snow Waltz Tour” to the KFC Yum! Center on December 19, and Louisville fans are buzzing with excitement. Known for blending virtuosic violin with pop, electronic, and even dubstep influences, Stirling has carved out a unique place in modern music — and her live shows are unlike anything else on today’s concert scene.
Streaming Showdown: Which Music App Fits Your Soundtrack?
If you’re the type who times your day by a playlist — drive-time jazz to get downtown, a pre-show jamout 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.
Mayor Craig Greenberg & Louisville Orchestra Present A Free Tribute Concert – Thursday Nov. 20
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg and the Louisville Orchestra will present a free tribute concert for the community following the tragic loss of UPS Airlines Flight 2976. The program is intended to honor the memory of those who lost their lives, recognize the courage of the first responders who answered the call, and acknowledge the efforts of the many UPS employees who supported the company’s response.
CLICK HERE for more details about the concert.
Performance Spotlight: A Velveteen Rabbit Christmas @ Derby Dinner Playhouse thru Dec. 20
Derby Dinner Playhouse is excited to host the holiday musical “A Velveteen Rabbit Christmas” thru December 20th as part of their Children’s Musical Theatre. Don’t miss this classic Musical where Christmas presents come to life as a very special toy discovers what it truly means to be real and is changed forever in this enchanting holiday musical based on the classic book by Margery Williams. Santa leads us back to the 1920’s to experience this classic tale in a new and vibrant way, and helps us realize the true spirit of Christmas.
Kentucky Opera Names Ben Robinson as General Director and CEO
The Kentucky Opera recently named Ben Robinson as its General Manager and CEO. The acclaimed director and arts leader returns to his roots to lead Kentucky Opera’s next chapter. An accomplished singer, stage director, and arts executive, Robinson brings creative vision, operational expertise, and a deep commitment to opera as a community-building force.
Most recently, Robinson was General Director of Anchorage Opera and Managing Director of Lyric Fest in Philadelphia. In Anchorage, Robinson led a season that expanded community programming, forged new artistic partnerships, and closed with a six-figure operating surplus.
Holiday Magic in Louisville: Your Ultimate Guide to Festive Shows, Music & Cheer!
The holidays are shining bright in Louisville! From dazzling light displays and heartwarming stage productions to concerts that bring the spirit of the season to life, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this season. Whether you’re laughing along with Elf at Derby Dinner Playhouse, taking in the timeless beauty of The Nutcracker, or rocking out with JD McPherson and Sara Evans, Louisville’s stages are bursting with seasonal joy.
So grab your coat, gather your friends and family, and experience the magic of the holidays all across the city — because there’s no place like Louisville for the holidays!
A Christmas Carol Returns to Actors Theatre Dec. 4-21
It’s the homecoming Louisville has been waiting for. After years away from the stage, Actors Theatre’s A Christmas Carol returns to the Pamela Brown Auditorium, December 4–21, in a heartwarming, spirit-lifting production that rekindles the magic, memory, and meaning of the holidays. Tickets are on sale now at actorstheatre.org starting at $30.
After years of anticipation, it’s the return of a Louisville institution. For generations, families have gathered at Actors Theatre to share Dickens’ timeless tale of redemption and joy. Now, A Christmas Carol is back where it belongs—on the mainstage.
Performance Preview: PNC Broadway in Louisville: Kimberly Akimbo (Dec. 2-7)
If Water for Elephants is a sweeping epic, Kimberly Akimbo is its delightfully offbeat counterpart: a small-scale story with enormous heart.
Winner of the 2023 Tony Award for Best Musical, along with four other Tonys including Best Score and Best Book, Kimberly Akimbo has been hailed as one of the most original, funny, and touching musicals in years.
Music Go Round Ticket Giveaway: Mac McAnally-November 21 @ The Louisville Palace (Free to Enter)
Don’t miss your chance to see 10-time CMA Musician of the year Mac McAnally live at The Louisville Palace on November 21!
The hit songwriter, and longtime Jimmy Buffett friend and bandmate, brings an evening of stories and songs you know by heart to Louisville — and you could be there for FREE!
Enter your information below for a chance to win! (Winners will be announced November 10)
Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms and Spin Doctors
Get ready to relive the best of ’90s rock and alt-jam magic this fall when Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms and Spin Doctors roll into Iroquois Amphitheater in Louisville on September 8 for one unforgettable night of hits and high-energy performance. This co-headlining date — part of a nationwide summer tour — unites three bands synonymous with memorable melodies, harmonica fire, and sing-along classics that helped define a generation.
Tyler Childers & The Lumineers to Headline Railbird Music Festival 2026
One of Kentucky’s biggest music festivals is coming back for a much anticipated music weekend! The Railbird Music Festival is coming back to The Infield at Red Mile in Lexington June 6–7, 2026 with a lineup topped by headliners Tyler Childers and The Lumineers.
This year’s festival promises a mix of Americana, folk, country, and rock, featuring more than 30 artists across three stages — including Zach Top, Ella Langley, Caamp, Mt. Joy, Sam Barber, Muscadine Bloodline, Stephen Wilson Jr., Houndmouth, Robert Earl Keen, Shane Smith & The Saints, The Wallflowers, Margo Price, Watchhouse, Shakey Graves, Waylon Wyatt, Evan Honer, and more.
Louisville Orchestra Announces Free Spring Community Concerts in March
Louisville Orchestra announces an expanded slate of free community concerts this spring, featuring OrKIDStra: The Science of Sound on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at Whitney Hall and Music Without Borders: Voices, Rhythm, and Culture with neighborhood performances on March 26 and 27, 2026. Together, these programs reflect the orchestra’s long standing commitment to accessibility, education, and meaningful connection through live orchestral music. Through its OrKIDStra and Music Without Borders programs, the orchestra continues to remove financial and cultural barriers, inviting families, students, and neighborhood audiences to experience world class music in welcoming, familiar spaces.
Broadway in Louisville Kicks Off 2026 With a Bang – Check Out Our Previews
Broadway in Louisville kicks off 2026 with a trio of unforgettable productions that bring classic stories, iconic music, and global spectacle to Whitney Hall. From Jazz Age glamour of The Great Gatsby to Disney magic with Beauty and The Beast and pulse-pounding Irish dance with Riverdance, these shows promise a winter of must-see theater.
Comedian Nikki Glaser Coming to Kentucky Center October 3
Comedian Nikki Glaser has announced The Stunning Tour, making 29 stops across Europe and North America beginning in June, including The Kentucky Center in Louisville Saturday, October 3, 2026.
Tickets for the newly added shows go on sale Friday, January 9 at 10am (local time) with presale beginning Wednesday, January 7 at 10am (local time) at NikkiGlaser.com and KentuckyPerformingArts.org.
The Maestro of Louisville Festivals: A Conversation with Event Producer & Entrepreneur Trevor Cravens
Louisville’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.
We caught up with Cravens to hear about the in’s and out’s of making great events for the Louisville community. Listen to it here:
A Homecoming and a New Vision: Ben Robinson Takes the Helm at Kentucky Opera
When Ben Robinson stepped into the role of General Director and CEO of Kentucky Opera this 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.”
Listen to the full interview here:
A Night of Music and Celebration: Louisville Orchestra’s Spring Gala Returns April 16, 2026
The 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, where Welch’s profound impact on the organization and the Louisville arts community will be celebrated.
A Homecoming in Motion: New Artistic Director Anthony Krutzkamp Reimagines Swan Lake for Louisville Ballet
When 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.
We caught up with Krutzkamp to hear about his career and what he is looking forward to about his new role at the Louisville Ballet. Listen to the interview here:
Share Your Review – We Want to Hear From You!
You’re the Star of the Show!
We would love to hear about your recent live entertainment experience — whether it was a Broadway in Louisville performance, a concert at the Palace, or a night under the stars at Kentucky Shakespeare, let us know what you thought!
Share your thoughts below — we may feature your review (and your first name and city) in Audience Magazine or on Audience502.com!
Brett Shepherd, Chief Development Officer, Appointed Fund for the Arts Interim President/CEO
Fund for the Arts’ Board of Directors has appointed Brett Shepherd as the Interim President and CEO of the organization, starting January 1, 2026. Shepherd has served as the organization’s Chief Development Officer since August 2022.
In June 2025, current President and CEO Andre Kimo Stone Guess announced his plan to depart Fund for the Arts at the end of June 2026, completing five years at the helm of the organization. Guess will work alongside Shepherd in the transition period.
“Brett has been critical to the success of Fund for the Arts since starting in 2022, and I am so grateful for him for stepping into this leadership role,” said Guess. “I’m excited to work together to ensure a smooth transition for our stakeholders and staff.”
Lindsey Stirling Brings Her High-Energy “Snow Waltz Tour” to the Yum! Center — and Louisville Fans Are Thrilled
International violin sensation Lindsey Stirling is set to bring her electrifying “Snow Waltz Tour” to the KFC Yum! Center on December 19, and Louisville fans are buzzing with excitement. Known for blending virtuosic violin with pop, electronic, and even dubstep influences, Stirling has carved out a unique place in modern music — and her live shows are unlike anything else on today’s concert scene.
Streaming Showdown: Which Music App Fits Your Soundtrack?
If you’re the type who times your day by a playlist — drive-time jazz to get downtown, a pre-show jamout 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.
Mayor Craig Greenberg & Louisville Orchestra Present A Free Tribute Concert – Thursday Nov. 20
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg and the Louisville Orchestra will present a free tribute concert for the community following the tragic loss of UPS Airlines Flight 2976. The program is intended to honor the memory of those who lost their lives, recognize the courage of the first responders who answered the call, and acknowledge the efforts of the many UPS employees who supported the company’s response.
CLICK HERE for more details about the concert.
Performance Spotlight: A Velveteen Rabbit Christmas @ Derby Dinner Playhouse thru Dec. 20
Derby Dinner Playhouse is excited to host the holiday musical “A Velveteen Rabbit Christmas” thru December 20th as part of their Children’s Musical Theatre. Don’t miss this classic Musical where Christmas presents come to life as a very special toy discovers what it truly means to be real and is changed forever in this enchanting holiday musical based on the classic book by Margery Williams. Santa leads us back to the 1920’s to experience this classic tale in a new and vibrant way, and helps us realize the true spirit of Christmas.
Kentucky Opera Names Ben Robinson as General Director and CEO
The Kentucky Opera recently named Ben Robinson as its General Manager and CEO. The acclaimed director and arts leader returns to his roots to lead Kentucky Opera’s next chapter. An accomplished singer, stage director, and arts executive, Robinson brings creative vision, operational expertise, and a deep commitment to opera as a community-building force.
Most recently, Robinson was General Director of Anchorage Opera and Managing Director of Lyric Fest in Philadelphia. In Anchorage, Robinson led a season that expanded community programming, forged new artistic partnerships, and closed with a six-figure operating surplus.
Holiday Magic in Louisville: Your Ultimate Guide to Festive Shows, Music & Cheer!
The holidays are shining bright in Louisville! From dazzling light displays and heartwarming stage productions to concerts that bring the spirit of the season to life, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this season. Whether you’re laughing along with Elf at Derby Dinner Playhouse, taking in the timeless beauty of The Nutcracker, or rocking out with JD McPherson and Sara Evans, Louisville’s stages are bursting with seasonal joy.
So grab your coat, gather your friends and family, and experience the magic of the holidays all across the city — because there’s no place like Louisville for the holidays!
A Christmas Carol Returns to Actors Theatre Dec. 4-21
It’s the homecoming Louisville has been waiting for. After years away from the stage, Actors Theatre’s A Christmas Carol returns to the Pamela Brown Auditorium, December 4–21, in a heartwarming, spirit-lifting production that rekindles the magic, memory, and meaning of the holidays. Tickets are on sale now at actorstheatre.org starting at $30.
After years of anticipation, it’s the return of a Louisville institution. For generations, families have gathered at Actors Theatre to share Dickens’ timeless tale of redemption and joy. Now, A Christmas Carol is back where it belongs—on the mainstage.
Performance Preview: PNC Broadway in Louisville: Kimberly Akimbo (Dec. 2-7)
If Water for Elephants is a sweeping epic, Kimberly Akimbo is its delightfully offbeat counterpart: a small-scale story with enormous heart.
Winner of the 2023 Tony Award for Best Musical, along with four other Tonys including Best Score and Best Book, Kimberly Akimbo has been hailed as one of the most original, funny, and touching musicals in years.
Music Go Round Ticket Giveaway: Mac McAnally-November 21 @ The Louisville Palace (Free to Enter)
Don’t miss your chance to see 10-time CMA Musician of the year Mac McAnally live at The Louisville Palace on November 21!
The hit songwriter, and longtime Jimmy Buffett friend and bandmate, brings an evening of stories and songs you know by heart to Louisville — and you could be there for FREE!
Enter your information below for a chance to win! (Winners will be announced November 10)
Got an idea? A story? A show update? A review? Let us know...we would love to hear from you!