Louisville Ballet is bringing one of the most celebrated names in dance back to Louisville as part of its 75th Diamond Anniversary celebration. Legendary dancer and choreographer Mikhail Baryshnikov will return for an exclusive series of special events surrounding Andrea Schermoly’s production of Carmen in February.
(July 15, 2026) – The Louisville Orchestra has appointed Jude Vaclavik as Chief Executive Officer, welcoming an internationally respected arts leader whose career spans music publishing, artist development, education, composition, and nonprofit leadership.
Vaclavik joins the Orchestra following leadership roles at Universal Music Group and a distinguished career that has included Houston Grand Opera, Boosey & Hawkes, and The Juilliard School.
Derby Dinner Playhouse announced the production of Disney’s THE LITTLE MERMAID that will play through August 9. Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories and Disney’s classic animated film, THE LITTLE MERMAID is a heartwarming musical adventure for audiences of all ages.
Featuring unforgettable music by eight-time Academy Award® winner Alan Menken, with lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater and a captivating book by Doug Wright, this Broadway favorite is filled with memorable songs including “Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl,” and “Part of Your World.”
August 18-23 – Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center – Louisville.Broadway.com
Few stories have captured the emotion and uncertainty of growing up quite like The Outsiders. Now, S.E. Hinton’s beloved coming-of-age classic has been transformed into one of Broadway’s biggest hits as The Outsiders arrives in Louisville. Winner of the 2024 Tony Award for Best Musical, the production delivers a thrilling theatrical experience filled with emotional storytelling, cinematic staging, and a powerful folk-rock score that has audiences across the country raving.
October 30 & 31
The Brown Theatre
Humanity, Horror and High Drama: Louisville Ballet Brings Frankenstein to Life This October
This fall, Louisville Ballet takes one of literature’s most haunting and misunderstood stories and transforms it into a sweeping theatrical ballet experience. On October 30 and 31 at The Brown Theatre, Artistic Director Anthony Krutzkamp unveils Frankenstein powered by LG&E and KU, a new full-length adaptation inspired by Mary Shelley’s groundbreaking novel — a production that promises gothic atmosphere, emotional complexity, cinematic visuals, and a surprisingly human heart.
The Louisville Orchestra’s 2026-27 season promises a compelling mix of beloved classics, daring contemporary works, and ambitious collaborations that reflect the ensemble’s growing artistic reach across Kentucky and beyond. But while audiences will experience the finished performances under the lights of The Kentucky Center’s Whitney Hall and venues statewide, the season’s true heartbeat begins long before the first downbeat.
For the musicians of the Louisville Orchestra, each concert is the culmination of months of study, rehearsal, reflection, and collaboration. Recently, Audience Magazine publisher Doug Dreisbach caught up with some of the orchestra members to share their perspective about what excites them most about the upcoming season, how they prepare for demanding performances, and why performing for Louisville audiences remains deeply meaningful
