Audience Magazine | August 2025 | Louisville Arts & Entertainment by Audience502

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HERE’S TO A NEW ADVENTURE

Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire."

– William Butler Yeats

Amy Higgs Managing Editor

G. Douglas Dreisbach Publisher

It’s that time of year again — the kids are back in school, eager to start the next chapter of their educational journey. Unfortunately, that means we adults have to get back to reality. But just because we aren’t on summer vacation anymore doesn’t mean we have to stop enjoying life and having fun. That’s where Louisville’s performing arts community comes in.

Talk about lighting a fire (thank you, Mr. Yeats) — the calendar for fall is hotter than the August heat! We’ve got not one, but two music festivals on deck for September. Plus, festival organizers just announced some exciting additions and enhancements for this year’s events. Read more on page 20.

If you’re looking for an educational AND entertaining option surrounding Kentucky’s most famous beverage, make sure you check out the Frazier Museum’s new tasting events that blend the flavor of bourbon with stories and music. Read all about it on page 18

PNC Broadway in Louisville kicks off its 2025-26 season with a bang, er, pop — the King of Pop, that is. MJ The Musical will have you “Thriller” dancing in your seat and moonwalking all the way home. For photos and a preview of the show, turn to page 16. For movies, music, food, and more coming to Downtown this fall, check out page 19. As always, for comprehensive calendar of all things performancerelated from now through October, turn to page 7.

Audience Magazine is pleased to bring you these previews, highlights, updates, and more each month free of charge, thanks to the support of our generous advertisers. And thank you for doing your part to support the arts all year long. We give each of you an A+!

See you at the show,

Amy & Doug

KENTUCKY TOURISM Natural Bridge Resort Park

PNC BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE The Heartbeat of a Legend

LOUISVILLE DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP Fall for Downtown

AUDIENCE EVENT OUTLOOK Fall For Our Favorite Events!

FRAZIER HISTORY MUSEUM Bourbon Through the Bluegrass

BOURBON & BEYOND Expansion & Enhancements

TICKET GIVEAWAYS SPECIAL INVITES SHOW PREVIEWS

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

PNC Broadway in Louisville Louisville Downtown Partnership

Danny Wimmer Presents Frazier History Museum

Kentucky Tourism, Arts, and Heritage Cabinet

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

or part without

permission is

Markus as 'MJ' in MJ

Musical

Catch the show at The Kentucky Center Sept. 9-14. Photo by Matthew Murphy.

NEW KENTUCKY HOME

NATURAL BRIDGE RESORT PARK

Scenic grandeur and abundant amenities in Slade, Kentucky

Nestled in the heart of Slade, Kentucky, Natural Bridge State Resort Park is a gem that beckons outdoor adventurers and nature lovers alike. The stunning sandstone arch, a masterpiece sculpted by nature, has captivated travelers from all over the country. While many natural archways exist, none quite compares to the grandeur of Natural Bridge, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the beauty of the great outdoors.

However, there is more to the state park than its iconic arch. Travelers looking to explore Kentucky’s natural landscape will find an abundance of amenities to make their stay unforgettable. Hemlock Lodge, established in 1962, offers 35 well-equipped rooms, each featuring a mini fridge and a private balcony that overlooks the pool and the enchanting Hoedown Island.

Guests can indulge in culinary delights at the lodge's Sandstone Arches Restaurant. Here, you can relish traditional American cuisine while watching local wildlife — birds and squirrels flit about the window feeders. The dining experience is further elevated with a selection of Kentucky Proud wines, ales, and bourbons at both the restaurant and Trails End Tavern.

For travelers seeking a more intimate experience, the park also features cozy one- or two-bedroom cottages nestled into the mountainside. These accommodations offer all the comforts of home, making them an ideal retreat for families or couples seeking to escape the everyday hustle and bustle.

Accessing the breathtaking vistas of Natural Bridge is easy, thanks to the

Skylift that takes visitors to the summit. For travelers enthusiastic to explore the area's rich natural resources, more than 20 miles of interconnected trails await. These paths weave through the lush landscape, connecting to the Red River Gorge trail system and segments of the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail, revealing the park’s stunning flora and fauna up close.

Kentucky boasts a treasure trove of natural wonders, with 44 state parks that include 17 resort parks, 30 campgrounds, and 13 golf courses. Each park holds its own unique allure, but Natural Bridge State Resort Park stands out as a magical place where nature reigns supreme. So why wait? Pack your bags and set your sights on Natural Bridge State Resort Park. Experience the natural

beauty, indulge in delightful dining, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

For more information on planning your visit to Kentucky State Parks, check out parks.ky.gov. Discover all that this scenic state park has to offer — your adventure awaits!

he KY Lotter y has r aised over $5 BILLION for colle ge scholar ships and g r ants.

FALL FOR OUR FAVORITE EVENTS!

As summertime starts to cool off to make way for autumn weather, Louisville’s arts and entertainment scene shows no signs of slowing down. From major concerts and touring Broadway shows to local theater, gallery openings, and outdoor festivals, there’s no shortage of incredible events on the horizon. Whether you're into live music, stage productions, or cultural celebrations, the city is packed with must-see experiences through August, September, and October.

Be sure to explore some of our top picks below. For a full list of performing arts and entertainment events in Louisville, check out our complete event calendar at Audience502.com

AUGUST

13-SEPTEMBER 28

Come from Away Derby Dinner Playhouse

Based on actual events, an airplane full of passengers is forced to land in a small town in Newfoundland following the September 11, 2001, attacks. What follows are stories of community, optimism, and hope. The characters and stories are from real-life testimonials, and the theme of coming together is universal.

14-24

CenterStage @ JCC Sound of Music

Trager Family Jewish Community Center

Shapira Auditorium

“The hills are alive…” in this beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein musical. A young, hopeful nun finds love and family when sent to live with a retired

Marine Captain and his seven children. This performance will use a concert format to enhance the score, including “Do Re Mi.” “Climb ev’ry Mountain” and “Edelweiss.”

Sawyer Brown Classic Country Kentucky State Fair

Sawyer Brown is a high-energy country band known for blending country rock with pop and Southern flair. Rising to fame in the 1980s, their chart-topping hits include “Some Girls Do,” “Step That Step,” and “The Race Is On.” Their performances are upbeat, danceable, and crowd-pleasing. Free concert with fair admission.

After Hours @ The Speed Speed Art Museum

The Speed Art Museum comes alive with

an eclectic mix of music, performances, a cash bar plus food available at the cafe, Est. 1927 by Marigold, and of course, art! Experience the Speed after hours as you’ve never experienced it before with something different each month exploring new themes and welcoming artists and entertainers of all kinds. Past events have featured everything from local bands to up and coming DJs, specialty Speed Cinema screenings, dance performances, and fashion shows! There’s truly something for everyone at After Hours.

Arkansauce

Bluegrass/Folk/Americana Zanzabar

Arkansauce is a dynamic, four-piece string band from Northwest Arkansas blending bluegrass, newgrass, folk, Americana, blues, and funk. Their intricate instrumental interplay, strong vocal harmonies, and high-energy improvisation have earned them regional acclaim and expanding tours.

AUDIENCE EVENT OUTLOOK

Blue Öyster Cult Rock

Kentucky State Fair

Blue Öyster Cult is a legendary rock band known for blending hard rock, psychedelic, and progressive elements with sci-fi and occult themes. Their biggest hits include “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper,” “Burnin’ for You,” and “Godzilla,” all showcasing their signature mix of melodic hooks and dark, poetic lyrics. Free concert with fair admission.

17

Roots & Boots: Aaron Tippin, Collin Raye & Sammy Kershaw

Country Kentucky State Fair

Free concert with fair admission

Don’t miss Military Saturday at the Kentucky State Fair with country music at its finest. Tippin, Raye, and Kershaw will keep you singing and dancing with their hits.

Jamey Johnson –

The Last Honkey Tonk Tour Outlaw/Traditional Country, Southern Rock

Louisville Palace

Jamey Johnson is a Grammy-nominated country singer-songwriter known for his rich baritone voice and traditional outlaw country style. His music blends classic country storytelling with Southern rock influences, highlighted in acclaimed albums like That Lonesome Song and The Guitar Song.

Grand Funk Railroad

Classic Rock/Blues/Funk

Kentucky State Fair

Free concert with fair admission

Grand Funk Railroad is a legendary American rock band known for their hard-driving blend of classic rock, blues, and funk. Rising to fame in the 1970s, their hits include “We’re an American Band,” “Some Kind of Wonderful,” and “The Loco-Motion,” showcasing gritty vocals and powerhouse rhythms. Free concert with fair admission.

22 Men In Black

Downtown Drive-In, Brown-Forman Amphitheater, 1301 River Road

Louisville Downtown Partnership’s Downtown Drive-In is a free outdoor

movie night series taking place on select Friday nights thru October. Grab snacks and drinks and enjoy a fan-favorite under the stars. The movie starts at sunset.

23 Ole 60

Southern Rock/Funk Kentucky State Fair

Ole 60, a six-piece band from Hawesville, Kentucky, has rapidly gained national attention with their distinctive fusion of classic country, Southern rock, contemporary folk, and grunge-era rock. Their debut EP, Three Twenty Four, released in 2023, featured the breakout hit “Smoke & A Light,” which topped streaming charts and propelled them into the spotlight. Subsequent releases like “Brother Joe” and the emotionally resonant EP Songs About You have showcased their storytelling prowess and musical versatility. Known for their electrifying live performances, Ole 60 has transitioned from local gigs to headlining national tours and making their Grand Ole Opry debut in early 2025. Free concert with fair admission.

23 Kip Moore

Country

French Lick Resort (French Lick)

Hailed as “an uncompromising, genredefying artist firing on all cylinders” by Vice and “one of country’s more thoughtful artists” by Billboard, Kip Moore has blazed a trail that has included five critically acclaimed albums and more than a dozen charttopping singles. Among those are multi-platinum hits “Somethin’ ‘Bout a Truck,” “Hey Pretty Girl,” “Beer Money,” and “More Girls Like You.” With over 1 billion streams and 2.5 million monthly listeners, he’s performed sold-out headline shows in stadiums around the world.

27

WFPK’s Waterfront Wednesday Sixpence None the Richer, Kashus Culpepper, Roadie Waterfront Park

The WFPK Waterfront Wednesdays is a free monthly concert series held at Louisville’s Waterfront Park from April through September. Hosted by WFPK, it features a diverse lineup of national and local artists across various genres. The event attracts music lovers for an evening of live performances, food trucks, and scenic riverfront views. A staple of Louisville’s cultural scene, it offers a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere celebrating music and community.

30

Government Cheese –40th Anniversary

Headliners Music Hall

Government Cheese was a Kentuckybased rock band formed in the mid1980s, blending roots rock, power pop, and punk influences. Known for their energetic live shows and sharp-witted lyrics, the band gained a cult following in the Southeastern United States. Their music featured catchy melodies, driving guitars, and a raw, unfiltered sound that captured the spirit of indie and alternative rock. Don’t miss this 40th anniversary concert to celebrate the band’s history.

SEPTEMBER

4-6

Unbroken Circle Music Festival

Bicentennial Park, Madison, Indiana

The inaugural Unbroken Circle Music Festival is set for Madison, Indiana's Bicentennial Park along the Ohio River. Headliners include the Turnpike Troubadours, Marcus King Band, Charles Wesley Godwin, Paul Cauthen, Vincent Neil Emerson, and more. The lineup also features Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky

Thunder, Evan Honer, Silverado, Drayton Farley, Cole Chaney, Sunny Sweeney, Sons of Habit, Joe Stamm Band, Leah Blevins, Dallas Moore, Isaac Rudd, Vaguely Familiar, and Wild Horses.

5 Louisville Orchestra

Ben Folds

The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall

Singer-songwriter Ben Folds brings his sharp lyrics, dynamic piano style, and genre-blending sound to Louisville for a one-night-only performance with the Louisville Orchestra. Featuring hits from Ben Folds Five, solo favorites, and orchestral arrangements, this concert showcases his signature mix of musicianship and storytelling.

5 Raise the Barre: A Benefit for the

offers a chance to celebrate and support the devoted Company Artists – 24 professional dancers who give their time, effort, and dedication to the ballet and have put roots down in this city. 100% of the proceeds will elevate the salaries of these vital members of our company and community.

Iroquois Amphitheater

nominated band is not content resting on its legacy alone. Always working to expand its audience, Three Dog Night has embraced and been embraced by 21st-century music technology.

7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience

Brown Theatre

Don’t miss 7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience, a stunningly accurate tribute to the music of the Eagles. Using no backing tracks or harmonizers, 7 Bridges faithfully re-creates the experience of an Eagles concert from the band’s most prolific period. Each show features one brilliant hit after another with some mighty Joe Walsh surprises sprinkled into the mix. 7 Bridges offers the perfect blend of songs to capture all levels of Eagles devotees.

Three Dog Night & Little River Band Classic Rock

ever held at Waterfront Park on the Big Four Bridge Lawn. The annual festival is held every year on the weekend following Labor Day at the Big Four Bridge Lawn, which consists of four acres of tree-lined walks overlooking the Ohio River, located at the base of the Walking Bridge.

8-OCTOBER 18

Pete the Cat StageOne Family Theater

Based on the popular children’s books by Kimberly and James Dean, Pete and friends travel the world! With guitar in hand and buddy Jimmy Biddle by his side, adventures await. This play is perfect for any audience age 4 and up.

9-14

PNC Broadway in Louisville:

MJ The Musical Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Experience the magic of Michael Jackson like never before with MJ The Musical. This electrifying, multi Tony Awardwinning Broadway sensation takes you behind the scenes, celebrating the King

of Pop’s creative brilliance, iconic moves, and legendary sound. Don’t miss this unforgettable theatrical journey in Louisville!

9 The Wallflowers Rock

Mercury Ballroom

The Wallflowers, fronted by Jakob Dylan, blend heartland rock, roots rock, and alternative influences into reflective, lyrically rich songs. Best known for their 1996 hit “One Headlight,” they’ve remained a steady force in American rock.

11-14

Bourbon & Beyond Music, Food & Bourbon Experiences

Highland Festival Grounds at The Kentucky Fair & Expo Center

Who’s ready for the return of the biggest and most awesome music festival in the country? The four-day extravaganza returns this year with over 120 artists — from Phish, Noah Kahan, and Sturgill Simpson to Nathaniel Rateliff and The Night Sweats, Alabama Shakes, Jack White, Ringo Starr, Goo Goo Dolls, and Third Eye Blind. Combined with bourbon tastings, chef demos, and food experiences, this is a “Don’t Miss Out” festival ideal for music lovers, foodies, and bourbon enthusiasts alike.

17

WFPK’s Waterfront Wednesday

Paula Cole, Uwade, Maggie Halfman Waterfront Park

a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere celebrating music and community.

18-21

Louder Than Life Music Festival

Highland Festival Grounds at The Kentucky Fair & Expo Center

Crank up the volume: Louisville’s Louder Than Life 2025 is set to return bigger and louder than ever with another electrifying lineup. Expect hard-hitting rock, blistering metal, and high-octane performances from headline icons alongside emerging heavyweights. It’s three days of pure intensity — don’t miss the sonic siege. Bands include Slayer, Lamb of God, Rob Zombie, Cypress Hill, and more.

19

Moana

Downtown Drive-In, Brown-Forman Amphitheater, 1301 River Road

Louisville Downtown Partnership’s Downtown Drive-In is a free outdoor movie night series taking place on select Friday nights thru October. Grab snacks and drinks and enjoy a fan-favorite under the stars. The movie starts at sunset.

19 Ray LaMontagne - Trouble 20th Anniversary Tour

Rock/Blues/Folk

Louisville Palace

Ray LaMontagne is a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter known for his soulful voice and introspective lyrics.

Blending folk, rock, and blues, his music resonates with emotional depth and raw authenticity. Fans can expect a powerful, heartfelt performance filled with favorites like “Trouble” and newer, richly layered material.

19-20, 25-27

StageOne Family Theatre: Servant of Two Masters Walden Theatre at StageOne

Get ready for laughter, love, and mistaken identity! The Servant of Two Masters is a fast-paced, wildly funny Italian comedy full of slapstick, schemes, and one very hungry servant trying to serve (and outsmart) two bosses at once. A delightful, high-energy romp that’s fun for all ages!

20-21

The Thorn Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Elements of movement and dance provide a dazzling new spectacle in this retelling of the Passion of Christ. Emotional and compelling, this production provides a new perspective with themes of love and sacrifice. See the story performed like never before.

Melissa Etheridge & The Indigo Girls Iroquois Amphitheater

For more than three decades, Melissa Etheridge has been one of folk-rock’s most resonant voices, offering comfort and solace to listeners while also serving as a defiant beacon of hope. Etheridge’s 1988 self-titled debut — which she recorded in four days — went doubleplatinum and was hailed widely by critics for its stripped-down take on roots rock, which recalled fellow Midwesterner John Cougar Mellencamp while also channeling the passion of Janis Joplin.

23 & 24

An Evening with Goose Jam Band/Rock/Funk Louisville Palace

Goose is a Connecticut-based jam band known for their improvisational live shows and genre-blending sound. Fusing indie rock, funk, psychedelia, and electronica, they’ve gained a devoted following with dynamic performances and a fresh take on modern jam-band music.

The Filson Historical Society Presents: The Gertrude Polk Brown Lecture Series, Red Scare: Blacklists, McCarthyism, and the Making of Modern America

Author Clay Risen

Bomhard Theater, The Kentucky Center

Capturing the panic that followed the film Oppenheimer, Red Scare is journalist Clay Risen’s vivid narrative of the post-WWII anti-Communist witch hunt. Drawing on newly declassified documents, it traces McCarthyism’s rise and fall — highlighting lives destroyed by political hysteria and drawing haunting parallels to today. A gripping, urgent lesson from history.

26 Jaws

Downtown Drive-In

Brown-Forman Amphitheater, 1301 River Road

Everclear – Sparke and Fade

30th Anniversary Tour

Grunge/Rock

Mercury Ballroom

Everclear is an American rock band known for their raw, emotionally charged songs blending post-grunge, alternative rock, and power pop. Rising to fame in the 1990s with hits like “Santa Monica” and “Father of Mine,” they remain a nostalgic favorite.

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

Ziggy Marley and Burning Spear –Do the Reggae Tour

Iroquois Amphitheater

Ziggy Marley and Burning Spear unite for the Do the Reggae Tour, a powerful celebration of roots and culture. Expect uplifting rhythms, messages of unity, and legendary performances from two of reggae’s most iconic voices in a historic musical journey.

OCTOBER

1-NOV. 9

Derby Dinner Playhouse: Dial M For Murder

A fresh take on the edge-of-your-seat mystery that inspired Hitchcock’s masterpiece! This suspenseful crime thriller unravels a tangled web of blackmail, passion, and revenge with surprising twists that will keep you riveted until the very end!

1-26

Kentucky Shakespeare: Mary Shelly’s Frankenstein

Kentucky Shakespeare Headquarters

Within every man there is a monster; within every monster, a man. But which is which? An eerie evening of ghost stories crackles to life as Mary Shelley unspools her tale of Victor Frankenstein and his unholy experiment. This gothic tale of love, horror, and the power to create life — and destroy it — awakens in this visceral, original retelling of Frankenstein. Fresh from the brain of Lookingglass Theatre Company ensemble member David Catlin, creator of Moby Dick and Lookingglass Alice, comes a galvanic adaptation of this undying story. See for yourself this latest invention come to shocking life!

Opening Day at the Speed Art Park

Speed Art Museum

At the Speed Art Museum, a new outdoor setting invites visitors to slow down, gather, and connect with art and nature. Featuring large-scale sculptures and native plantings, this accessible space is designed to spark curiosity and build community. Join the free festivities with tours, activities, music, and more.

3-5

St. James Court Arts Show

Named the No. 1 Fine Art and Design Show in the country by Sunshine Artist magazine, the St. James Court Art Show returns for its 69th year in 2025. This juried outdoor event features over 600 artists from across the United States set amid historic Victorian homes in Old Louisville. Spanning six sections, the show is one of the nation’s most profitable art festivals.

4

North Mississippi AllstarsStill Shakin’ Tour Blues/Southern Rock/Jam Louisville Palace

The North Mississippi Allstars blend gritty blues, Southern rock, and jam-band improvisation into a high-energy, soulstirring sound. Known for raw guitar riffs, infectious rhythms, and deep Delta grooves, their performances radiate authenticity, spontaneity, and a downhome vibe that gets crowds dancing and hollering along.

Louisville Orchestra:

Rachmaninoff, Piano Concerto No. 3

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Robert Spano conducts a powerhouse program featuring Rachmaninoff’s “Piano Concerto No. 3,” one of the most demanding and electrifying works in the repertoire. Rising star Tony Siqi Yun takes on the challenge, alongside wideranging, searching works by Claude Baker and Christopher Theofanidis.

John Crist: Jokes for Humans Stand-up Comedy

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Crist is one of today's fast-rising standup 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.

7-9

Jim Gaffigan: A Bourbon Set Stand-up Comedy

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Gaffigan, an eight-time Grammy nominee, three-time Emmy winner, and multi-platinum comedian, is a two-time New York Times bestselling author and acclaimed actor, writer, and producer. His Hulu special, “The Skinny” hit nearly 100 million clip views. Gaffigan brings hilarious, observational wit rooted in everyday life.

10

Jamie Lissow: Better Off Dad Stand-up Comedy

Bomhard Theater, The Kentucky Center

Lissow is a comedian and actor who regularly appears on Fox’s top-rated latenight show, “Gutfeld!” He co-wrote and starred in two seasons of Netflix’s “Real Rob.” He’s performed on “The Tonight Show,” “Last Comic Standing,” and with Comedy Central and Dry Bar specials. He co-wrote and starred in “Daddy Daughter Trip,” is working on “The Animal 2,” and continues touring nationwide.

10-11

Louisville Ballet: Dracula

The Brown Theatre

Sink your teeth into this deliciously dark adaptation of Bram Stoker’s gothic masterpiece, Dracula. This chilling production explores the haunting tale of Count Dracula, told through the eyes of the madman Renfield, the haunted Mina, and her devoted husband, Jonathan Harker. Just in time for Halloween, this twisted story of obsession reveals

a love gone wrong, from first bite to final breath.

JJ Grey & Mofro

Southern Rock/Blues/Soul

Old Forester’s Paristown Hall

JJ Grey & Mofro blend Southern rock, blues, funk, soul, and swampy R&B, creating gritty, soulful grooves rooted in Florida’s landscape. Led by JJ Grey’s raspy vocals and socially conscious lyrics, they fuse heartfelt storytelling with raw, electrifying, roots-driven musical energy.

11

Louisville Orchestra: Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Experience the soul of the Mississippi Delta Blues in this one-of-a-kind concert event. Narrated by the legendary Morgan Freeman, this symphonic journey blends storytelling, live blues performances, and orchestral arrangements to explore the music, culture, and legacy of the Delta — where the blues was born.

14-19

PNC Broadway in Louisville: Water for Elephants

Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Step right up for Water for Elephants, the breathtaking new Broadway musical based on the bestselling novel. With stunning acrobatics, unforgettable music, and a powerful love story set under the big top, this spectacular show brings the magic and drama of the circus to life in Louisville.

17-19

David Dominé’s Victorian Ghost Walk

Historic Old Louisville

David Dominé’s Victorian Ghost Walk® celebrates America’s Most Haunted Neighborhood with a cast of real-life characters who return from the grave to tell their stories. Simon Kracht, the infamous resurrectionist who stole just-buried corpses for the city medical college; millionaire Alfred Victor DuPont,

who died at the hands of a scorned mistress, at least according to legend; Lucinda, the grief-stricken lunatic who proclaimed herself “Queen of America” in 1885 – these are just some of the ghosts waiting to entertain you this year.

18

Speed Art Museum: The Art of Bourbon Speed Art Museum

The Art of Bourbon combines Kentucky’s official art museum with Kentucky’s greatest product to produce the region’s premier bourbon and whiskey auction party! Join live online or in person to bid on some once-in-a-lifetime offerings and support the Speed!

23-26

StageOne Family Theatre: An Evening of Poe Walden Theatre at StageOne

Join us for a delightfully macabre evening of stories and poems by the moody brooder from Baltimore, Edgar Allan Poe. Celebrating their 14th season and having performed previously at the Frazier Museum and Belle of Louisville, Under the Boards Theatre (Kelly Moore, Eric Frantz, and Tony Dingman), in partnership with StageOne Family Theatre, will deliver tales of mystery, murder, love, and loss – just in time for the Halloween season!

24 & 25

Louisville Orchestra: Beethoven’s “Pastoral” Symphony Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Teddy Abrams leads a program that explores innovations both old and new featuring Beethoven’s “Pastoral” Symphony, a timeless tribute to nature innovative in its own day. Tessa Lark brings her signature artistry to the world premiere of Lisa Bielawa’s “Violin Concerto No. 2,” alongside bold new Creators Corps works by Anthony Green and Chelsea Komschlies.

29 & 30

Louisville Orchestra: Disney’s Hocus Pocus in Concert Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Get into the Halloween spirit with Disney’s Hocus Pocus in Concert! Watch the beloved 1993 film on the big screen while the Louisville Orchestra performs John Debney’s enchanting score live.

NOVEMBER

6-16

CenterStage at Trager Family JCC Company

Stephen Sondheim’s Company is a witty, sophisticated musical comedy that redefines love, marriage, and commitment through the eyes of the perpetually single Bobby. With sharp lyrics, bold structure, and unforgettable ensemble numbers, it’s a hilarious yet poignant look at modern relationships, making it one of Broadway’s most innovative and enduringly relevant musicals.

Hayes Carll ‘We’re Only Human’ Tour Outlaw Country/Folk/Classic Rock Headliners Music Hall

Hayes Carll is a Texas-born singer-songwriter who blends gritty Americana with wry, literate storytelling. Rooted in outlaw country, folk, and roots rock, his songs pair drawling vocals with sharp-eyed lyrics about love, loss, and small-town characters. Carll’s music recalls Townes Van Zandt and Steve Earle, balancing barroom swagger with poignant insight in equal measure.

12-DECEMBER 31

Derby Dinner Playhouse Elf: The Musical

Get ready for nonstop holiday cheer with Elf: The Musical, a jolly, candy-coated comedy that follows Buddy, a human raised by elves, on his quest to find his real father. Bursting with laughter,

heart, and toe-tapping tunes, this festive favorite reminds us that the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!

14-15, 20-22

StageOne Family Theatre

Pride and Prejudice

Walden Theatre at StageOne

Step into the world of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, where wit meets romance and first impressions are just the beginning. This timeless classic comes to life on stage with sharp dialogue, unforgettable characters, and a love story that still captivates after more than two centuries.

The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show

Brown Theatre

Award-winning comedy icons, writers, actors, and drag queen powerhouses BenDeLaCreme and Jinkx Monsoon are coming back to town with the wildly successful The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show. Throughout the show’s eight-year

history, Jinkx and DeLa have traveled through time a la A Christmas Carol with a wacky multiversal twist, defeated AI overlords trying to replace them, battled it out to define the meaning of Christmas, and led a harrowing rescue mission in The Nutcracker's Land of Sweets. While there's no guessing as to what wild and unexpected directions this year's show will take audiences, fans can expect another year of over-the-top camp spectacle, side-splitting gags, brand new songs, heartfelt storytelling, thrilling dance numbers, and iconic costumes.

Mac McAnally

Jimmy Buffet-style Country/Folk

Louisville Palace

McAnally, a masterful singer-songwriter and guitarist, blends country, folk, and tropical rock with heartfelt storytelling. Fans can expect soulful vocals, captivating acoustic arrangements, and beloved hits, along with engaging tales from his decades-long career in music, both solo and alongside Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band.

21-22

Louisville Orchestra

Yuja Wang & Teddy Abrams Return Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Yuja Wang and Teddy Abrams reunite for a high-octane program celebrating the bold sounds of Hungary. From Liszt’s dazzling Hungarian “Rhapsody No. 2” to Ligeti’s spectacular “Piano Concerto” and Bartók’s thrilling “Concerto for Orchestra,” this concert is a showcase of virtuosity and energy.

‘Twas a Girls Night Before Christmas

Musical Comedy

Bomhard Theater, The Kentucky Center

From the Producers of the box-office smash Girls Night: The Musical comes the new must-see holiday show ‘Twas A Girls Night Before Christmas: The Musical. This new Christmas sequel will feature the five ladies we have all come to know and love gathering for a night in the town to laugh cry, gossip, and just let their hair down during the craziest of times, the holidays!

Eats

restaurants below are certified and recommended by Audience as premium places for pre-show dinner, drinks or mingling. Let them know we sent you!

(502) 894-8686

PERFORMANCE PREVIEW

THE HEARTBEAT OF A LEGEND

A THRILLING START TO PNC BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE'S 2025-26 SEASON by Audience Magazine

Lights shine brighter for Broadway in Louisville audiences as MJ The Musical takes the stage at Whitney Hall for eight electrifying performances in September. It’s a thrilling start to PNC Broadway in Louisville’s 2025-26 season and promises to be a mustsee experience.

THE HEARTBEAT OF A LEGEND

MJ The Musical isn’t a conventional jukebox salute — it’s a bold, behind-the-scenes journey into the creative genius of Michael Jackson. Crafted with a book by two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage and directed and choreographed by Tony winner Christopher Wheeldon, the show embraces the preparation for Jackson’s groundbreaking 1992 Dangerous World Tour.

It does more than celebrate the star; it also explores the complexities behind the music and motion. Through the lens of an MTV documentary crew, the performance captures Jackson’s artistry, vulnerabilities, and the collaborative spirit that propelled him onto unimaginable heights.

A SONIC SPECTACLE: OVER 25 HITS

If you're humming “Billie Jean” in the supermarket or finding yourself pulled into a spontaneous “Thriller” dance, you’re in good company. The production features an exhilarating collection of more than 25 of Michael’s iconic songs, delivering the soundtrack that defined a generation.

ARTISTIC POWERHOUSE BEHIND THE MAGIC

This isn’t just a concert; it’s a polished theatrical marvel. The creative team reads like a Broadway who’s who: set design by Tony winner Derek McLane, lighting by Natasha Katz, costumes by Paul Tazewell, sound by Gareth Owen, and projections by Pete Nigrini. Music is supervised and orchestrated with precision by David Holcenberg and Jason Michael Webb.

LOUISVILLE AUDIENCES WILL BE CAPTIVATED

Theatergoers & MJ Fans Unite: Whether you’re a dyed-inthe-wool fan of the King of Pop or drawn by the theatrical

BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE PRESENTS

MJ The Musical September 9-14, 2025

WHITNEY HALL, THE KENTUCKY CENTER

craftsmanship, this production delivers on both fronts — music that reverberates through your soul, movement that dazzles your eyes, and storytelling that stirs the heart.

An Emotional & Immersive Journey: By weaving performance with narrative, the show lets audiences peer into Jackson’s creative process, capturing both his brilliance and the personal costs of fame. It’s a moving, unforgettable window into a cultural icon.

Exhilarating Stagecraft: Expect cinematic visuals, dramatic choreography, and cutting-edge design — all tailored to make Whitney Hall feel like a portal into an era of music history.

It’s Not Just a Show: This is more than a performance — it’s a theatrical event.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Prepare for a nearly two-and-a-half-hour theatrical journey, including one intermission. It's packed with visual flair — from dynamic ensemble numbers to close-up glimpses into pivotal moments. It’s a high-energy celebration wrapped in a deeply human story.

Whether you're reliving the “Thriller” era or discovering MJ’s artistry anew, MJ The Musical delivers theatrical brilliance, emotional resonance, and electrifying energy. Make it a date, prepare to be dazzled.

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

 Jordan Markus as 'MJ' and the cast of the MJ First National Tour. Photo by Matthew Murphy.

PHOTO BY MATTHEW

MURPHY

Josh A Dawson as “Quincy Jones” and Erik Hamilton as “Michael”

BOURBON THROUGH THE BLUEGRASS

Frazier History Museum Shares the Stories & Sounds of Whiskey

The Frazier History Museum will host an exciting new bourbon tasting event, starting September 8, that will take place every Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday through December 22. Bourbon Through Bluegrass brings the history of the evolution of bourbon alive through storytelling and music.

Led by local bourbon icon Bernie Lubbers, a.k.a. The Whiskey Professor, and Bluegrass legend Steve Cooley, this live musical experience brings Kentucky’s Native Spirit to life — literally. As the stories of bourbon’s past unfold, they are paired with the appropriate Kentucky whiskeys and live renditions of the music that shaped a culture.

Kentucky musicians are highlighted through the songs of Arnold Shultz, Clayton McMichen, Merle Travis, and Bill Monroe. Audiences will hear about their influence on the worldwide music scene, kept alive today by artists like Alison Krauss and Billy Strings.

More about Bernie Lubbers

Lubbers is a Louisville native who traveled the country from 1985 to 2005 as a full-time professional standup comic with regular appearances on the national radio program, “The Bob & Tom Show.”

Jim Beam lured him off the road in 2005 to represent its brands alongside the iconic Fred Noe as Bourbon Ambassador. Then, Heaven Hill persuaded him to work with the legendary Parker Beam in 2012, where he still serves as their Global Whiskey Ambassador Emeritus.

Whiskey writer Fred Minnick credits Bernie with “single-handedly bringing

bottled in bond whiskey back to the forefront.” An article in the March 2025 issue of Garden & Gun Magazine called Bernie “Mister Bottled In Bond.”

More about Steve Cooley

Based right here out of Louisville, Cooley has been pickin’ the banjo professionally since the early 1970s. His longest hitch was for 18 years touring with the Dillards (The Darlings on “The Andy Griffith Show”) where they were nominated for four Grammys. He has also toured with Grandpa Jones. The Father of Bluegrass Music himself, Bill Monroe, called Cooley personally on the phone to ask him to join the Bluegrass Boys on tour.

Morehead State University, along with Bluegrass legend Bela Fleck, recently created a scholarship in his name: The Steve Cooley Bluegrass & Banjo Music Scholarship Endowment.

Don’t Miss Out

Bourbon Through Bluegrass — people will hear it, taste it, and feel it. Live music being played on legendary instruments, paired with historic spirits. It is not just a tasting. It is a multi-sensory celebration of Kentucky’s roots. Only in Kentucky. Only in Louisville. Only at the Frazier!

For more information about the events and to buy tickets, visit FrazierMuseum.org

Bernie Lubbers, a.k.a. The Whiskey Professor, and Bluegrass legend Steve Cooley

FALL FOR DOWNTOWN

Eat, Drink, Dance, & Discover What's Happening in the Heart of the City

FOOD TRUCK WEDNESDAY

Every Wednesday through October 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

South Fourth Street between Jefferson and Market Streets

Food Truck Wednesdays is a weekly lunchtime event that takes place every Wednesday from the spring to the fall, serving lunch options and featuring live music. Sponsored by JPMorganChase, the event series shuts down the street to vehicles so that food trucks can set up shop, allowing Downtown employees, visitors, and convention-goers to take advantage of the open streetscape and participate in a fun atmosphere and additional lunchtime options. Picnic tables will also be stationed on the plaza across from food trucks to provide supplemental seating.

DOWNTOWN WORK PERKS

Every fourth Wednesday 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

South Fourth Street between Jefferson and Market Streets

Downtown Work Perks is a new monthly appreciation program for Downtown employees. Kicking off in May and running through October, the event series takes place every fourth Wednesday in conjunction with Food Truck Wednesday, providing Downtown workers with a rotating complimentary perk each month.

DOWNTOWN DRIVE-IN

Select Fridays | Movies begin at sunset Brown-Forman Amphitheater, Waterfront Park, 1301 River Road

• August 22 Men in Black (PG-13)

• September 19 Moana (PG)

• September 26 Jaws (PG)

• October 3 Mean Girls (PG-13)

• October 10 Ghostbusters (PG)

Downtown Louisville is buzzing with excitement this fall, offering a full slate of fun, free, and festive events for all ages. From weekly food trucks and lunchtime perks to outdoor movies, Oktoberfest celebrations, and a Halloween-themed silent disco, there's always something happening in the heart of the city.

The Downtown Drive-In is an outdoor movie night series, taking place at BrownForman Amphitheater on select Friday nights through October. Movies will begin at sundown, with the amphitheater open an hour before to allow guests to grab their spot. The event includes snacks and beer for purchase. Movie-goers are also welcome to bring blankets and lawn chairs to the viewing. No tickets are required for the outdoor film screenings. Events are weather dependent.

STEINS ON MAIN

Saturday, October 18 | 2 p.m. – 7 p.m.

RePurposed, 615 W. Main St.

Prost to Louisville! Join the Louisville Downtown Partnership and Against the Grain Brewery for Steins on Main, a German-inspired Oktoberfest celebration in the heart of Downtown Louisville. On Saturday, October 18, Steins on Main will feature German-inspired

cuisine, games, and contests, music, and an expanded lineup of local breweries. The event is sponsored by Block By Block, Cornbread Hemp, and Wilson & Muir Bank & Trust.

DOWNTOWN SILENT DISCO Friday, October 25

Big Four Lawn, Waterfront Park, 1101 E. River Road

The Downtown Silent Disco is back on Friday, October 24! Guests are invited to come wearing their favorite Halloween costumes for a night of spooky fun, food, drink, and dancing under the city lights. This year’s event will include a Trunk or Treat addition. The event is for all ages, allowing visitors and residents the opportunity to dance the night away underneath the glow of Louisville’s skyline. Produced by Louisville Silent Disco, the event will feature a choice of three stations.

BOURBON & BEYOND AND LOUDER THAN LIFE Announce

EXPANSION & ENHANCEMENTS

Festival producer Danny Wimmer Presents has announced a major site expansion and extensive enhancements to elevate the experience for fans at both the upcoming Bourbon & Beyond and Louder Than Life festivals in September.

These incredible upgrades to the 2025 festival site are possible as part of DWP’s recently announced 10-year lease agreement with Kentucky Venues to host Bourbon & Beyond and Louder Than Life at the Highland Festival Grounds at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville. The lease runs from 2026-2035 and showcases both DWP’s and the city’s commitment to Louisville’s cultural and economic future.

The newly expanded festival footprint for Bourbon & Beyond, held September 11 to 14, and Louder Than Life, held September 18 to 21, makes greater use of the Kentucky Exposition Center’s infrastructure, creating a more comfortable and resilient experience for fans. More space will improve the crowd flow, and there will be more room for all to relax and enjoy the onsite festival experiences.

Starting this year, all festival passes will include free access to amusement rides inside Kentucky Kingdom. In addition, a seventh stage has been added to Louder Than Life, featuring a dozen new music artists — XweaponX, Haywire 617, Silly Goose, Unearth, War of Ages, Convictions, Upon A Burning Body, The Browning, Fight From Within, Orthodox, Fox Lake, and 156/Silence.

“This move has been years in the making, and we’re thrilled to finally bring it to life,” said Wimmer. “With Bourbon & Beyond, and Louder Than Life both growing year over year, we knew it was

time for more space, more comfort, and more ways to elevate the fan experience beyond just the music. The new layout delivers so much to be excited about: expanded shade, indoor experiences, airconditioned areas, and — thanks to our collaboration with Kentucky Kingdom — an amusement park inside the festival. It’s a truly unique addition that brings incredible value to fans, along with more food options, more ways to cool off, and so much more to explore. I’m ecstatic because this is just the beginning of something truly special for our festivals in Louisville.”

Here are some of the key updates and enhancements to the festival grounds:

More Comfort & More Space:

• DWP is rolling out sitewide enhancements to make festivalgoers’ weekends smoother, more comfortable, and easier to keep cool.

• An immersive merch experience inside the climate-controlled Kentucky Expo Center, featuring festival gear, additional activations, and lounge seating.

• More tree-shaded areas throughout the grounds to beat the heat

• Expanded turf zones at the main stages and general admission areas

• A more spacious layout designed to let fans stretch out, sway easy, and savor every moment between sets

• An added main entrance to help ease the flow and get fans in the gates quicker

• Bourbon & Beyond will be more than doubling its General Admission Lawn Chair Pass capacity and releasing more for purchase.

All Festival Passes Now Include:

• Free access to amusement rides inside Kentucky Kingdom from 2 to 9 p.m. (closed to the public during the festivals)

• Attractions include the Giant Wheel (ferris wheel, with extended hours), Lightning Run roller coaster, Scream Extreme and Skycatcher, for a total of 18 fan-favorites

• Extra shaded areas, picnic spots, and restrooms

• Select concessions, shopping, and air-conditioned indoor dining

VIP Got An Upgrade:

• MINT VIP is now 35% larger than ever before, with an expanded layout designed for extra comfort

• Brand-new three-story shaded viewing platform offering an elevated view of both main stages (replacing former outdoor patio)

• Added large shade structure for additional coverage throughout VIP area

Transportation & Festival

Entry Improvements:

• Festival site will be able to better utilize the infrastructure in place on the festival grounds, including roadways and parking as they were originally designed

• A second festival entrance will be added

• Dedicated rideshare/taxi area

• Shuttles will be vastly improved

Visit YouTube for virtual videos of the reimagined festival sites, or visit bourbonandbeyond.com or louderthanlifefestival.com.