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DIVING INTO SUMMER
Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.
– Pablo Picasso
School is finally out, and summertime is here! For many of us, that means fun trips to the beach or the mountains, or even exciting excursions overseas. If you don’t have summer travel on your calendar, you might simply be looking forward to some downtime to recharge and just — play. Pickleball or softball league, anyone?
Let’s face it, we could all use a break from real life right about now. But did you know you can escape into another world without leaving town? That’s the gift the arts give us, and we are especially lucky to have so many fantastic artists and arts groups right here in Louisville. And even if they’re not based here, we are certainly an essential stop on their tour.
In this issue of Audience Magazine, we’re pleased to give you a break from the daily grind through previews and features on Louisville’s dynamic arts scene.
If you need proof the variety and sheer volume of concerts, theater performances, or comedians hitting Louisville stages this summer, look no further than our monthly Event Outlook on page 7. There is quite literally something for everyone.
After you have perused the short event summaries and marked all the ones you want to buy tickets for over the next few months, turn to page 14 to read all about one of Louisville’s most quietly influential visual artists, whose work is on display at the Speed Art Museum starting this month.
Oh, and school may be out, but Fund for the Arts has launched a new app to keep kids engaged with the arts all summer. Check out the story on page 18. For summer fun just outside Louisville, read all about one of Kentucky’s beautiful parks on page 20, and upcoming events at French Lick Resort on page 22. For cool things to do closer to home, find out what's going on in Downtown Louisville on page 16
As always, we couldn’t bring you the hottest stories without our generous advertisers. Please show them some love when you get a chance.
There’s no doubt the local performing arts calendar is heating up for the season, so get your tickets before they sell out. We’ll see you under the stars.
Stay cool,
Amy & Doug
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
French Lick Resort Fund for the Arts Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet Speed Art Museum
.
On the Cover: Louisville Downtown Parnership has planned a series of events throughout the summer and fall, including Downtown Drive-In nights at Waterfront Park. Read more on page 16.
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 #300 Louisville, KY 40207 502.212.5177 | Audience502.com
JUNE EVENTS IN KENTUCKY PARKS
Celebrate the Great Outdoors All Month
Welcome to June in our New Kentucky Home! With long days and warm weather, this is a glorious time of year in our commonwealth.
As National Great Outdoors Month, June is a wonderful time to explore recreational activities in Kentucky. Kayak or paddleboard on Kentucky’s local waterways, camp at Kentucky State Parks, or go boating on one of our rivers or lakes. The Kentucky Shakespeare Festival offers outdoor theater in Louisville, and Kentucky Trail Towns have wonderful amenities and great hiking. There are many ways to enjoy the Great Outdoors here in Kentucky.
June is also Pride Month, and there are many ways to celebrate. In addition to the Lexington Pride Festival on June 28 and the Kentuckiana Pride Festival on June 21, you can participate in Lexington’s LGBTQ History Walking Tour through the Lexington Public Library. On June 14, Harlan County hosts a Pride March, and Paducah hosts its annual Pride Festival, to name a few.
On June 7, don’t miss Kentucky History Day in downtown Frankfort. This free event celebrates 233 years of our commonwealth. Bring your friends and family for living history performances, military demos, music, food, entertainment for all ages, and more. For additional details, visit history.ky.gov
Head to Louisville on June 14 for the Kentucky Book Festival: Louisville Edition. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., this event will host dozens of authors covering multiple genres, along with lots of literary programming and vendors. Save the date for this free, exciting event taking place at Paristown!
In other literary news, acclaimed writers and former Poets Laureate Crystal Wilkinson and Frank X Walker are leading a
Writing Workshop at General Butler State Resort Park on June 16 and 17. The workshop includes guided writing exercises, group discussions, and opportunities for personal reflection and is open to writers at every level. Limited space is available. Reserve your spot ASAP by calling the park at (502) 732-4384 or by visiting parks.ky.gov/writing-workshop
Juneteenth is coming up on June 19, and communities around the state are planning special events, from SoulFeast Week in Lexington (June 19 to 22) to Bowling Green’s Juneteenth Weekend Celebration 2K25 (June 13 to 15) to Oldham County’s Juneteenth Banquet (June 21). The Kentucky Center for African American Heritage will host a special Juneteenth & Father’s Day Brunch on June 15, and Camp Nelson National Monument invites everyone to join for their first Annual Freedom Day Festival on June 21.
June is an action-packed month in our New Kentucky Home, and these are only a few of the events coming up. Stay tuned for other announcements and events by following us on Facebook @KyTAHC and Instagram @ky.tahc.
Thank you for kicking off your summer with us here in Kentucky!
Lindy Casebier Secretary, Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet
T he KY Lotter y has r aised over $5 BILLION for colle ge scholar ships and g r ants.
SUMMER IS FINALLY
HERE… CHECK OUT THESE CAN’T-MISS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS!
Summer in Louisville means longer days, warmer nights, and an unforgettable lineup of arts and entertainment across the city. From show-stopping Broadway tours and cutting-edge theater to live music under the stars, the season promises something for every taste and tempo. Whether you're seeking an indie gem in an intimate venue, or a family-friendly outdoor performance, the region is alive with creative energy and cultural experiences.
Make the most of summer by marking your calendar now — and let Audience Magazine be your go-to guide for the very best Louisville and regional events.
Discover the full season's lineup and plan your next night out at Audience502.com
JUNE
THRU JUNE 20
Speed Art Museum
Brilliant Exiles: American Women in Paris, 1900-1939
During the early 20th century, Paris was the destination of choice for talented and independent American women determined to move beyond the limitations that restricted them at home. Drawn by a strong desire for
independence, they crossed the Atlantic to pursue personal and professional ambitions in a city viewed as the epicenter of modernity. Brilliant Exiles: American Women in Paris, 1900-1939 recaptures the experiences of these unorthodox women who found in Paris the freedom to blaze new trails in a variety of fields, including art, literature, design, publishing, music, fashion, journalism, theater, and dance.
THRU JULY 25
Kentucky Shakespeare Festival
Much Ado About Nothing Central Park
The 65th season kicks off with one of the greatest romantic comedies ever written. It’s a battle of wits, and love is in the air, as mischievous games, pranks, and plots abound in this irresistible comedy. Free to attend.
AUDIENCE EVENT OUTLOOK
THRU JUNE 29
Half-Baked Derby Dinner Playhouse
Derby Dinner Playhouse presents the funny Half-Baked comedy based on two retired brothers and their wives open a struggling Florida café. They cook up wild schemes — including murder for insurance and cannabis-infused appetizers — to save their business. Add a jealous ex and a Latvian loan shark, and the chaos really heats up!
2, 7, 14, 21 & 28
Pinkalicious The Musical Derby Dinner Playhouse
As part of the Children’s Musical Theatre Series, Pinkalicious The Musical is based on the best-selling book by Victoria and Elizabeth Kann. This delightful musical follows a cupcake-loving girl who turns pink from overindulgence. Packed with music, laughs, and a sweet lesson, it’s perfect for ages 3 to 12.
6 & 7
Germantown Schnitzelburg Blues Festival
Corner of Hickory Street and Burnett Ave.
This year, the Kentuckiana Blues Society and Check's Cafe will host the 15th Germantown Schnitzelburg Blues Festival in the heart of this historic neighborhood. The free festival with both indoor and outdoor stages will have four acts on Friday, June 6, and seven acts on Saturday, June 7.
6 Hot Red Chili Peppers: A Tribute to RHCP Mercury Ballroom
Hot Red Chili Peppers is a high-energy tribute band dedicated to capturing
the raw intensity and funky spirit of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. With spot-on musicianship, dynamic stage presence, and a setlist packed with fan favorites, they deliver an electrifying live experience that honors the iconic band's legacy.
6 & 20
Downtown Drive-in
Brown-Forman Amphitheater
Louisville Downtown Partnership’s Downtown Drive-In is an outdoor movie night series taking place on select Friday nights through October. Grab snacks and drinks and enjoy a fan-favorite under the stars. The movie starts at sunset. June 6 features “Happy Gilmore,” with “Fast and Furious” on June 20.
11
The Lemon Twigs Classic/Retro Rock Headliners Music Hall
The Lemon Twigs, led by brothers Brian and Michael D’Addario, fuse retro rock with modern flair, drawing inspiration from ’60s and ’70s legends like The Beatles and Big Star. Known for their intricate harmonies, theatrical live performances, and multi-instrumental talent, the Long Island duo crafts ambitious, genre-blurring music. With critically acclaimed albums, they bring a fresh yet nostalgic energy to rock, earning a devoted following for their bold, vintage-inspired sound.
12-JULY 6
CLUE: A Walking Mystery
The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall
CLUE: A Walking Mystery is an interactive, real-life game experience through Downtown Louisville. Solve puzzles at local businesses, track down scattered mansion furniture, and uncover who did it, where, and with what. Guided by the Butler, groups explore rain or shine in this immersive murder mystery adventure.
13
Nine Pound Hammer
Cowpunk/Grunge / Laid Back Picker
Rock/Honky-Tonk/Country Punk
The Whirling Tiger
Nine Pound Hammer is a pioneering cowpunk band formed in 1985 in Owensboro, Kentucky, by vocalist Scott Luallen and guitarist Blaine Cartwright. Blending hardcore punk with Southern rock and outlaw country, their music features raw, high-energy riffs and lyrics that delve into themes like rural poverty, alcoholism, and blue-collar life. Known for albums such as Hayseed Timebomb and Sex, Drugs & Bill Monroe, they helped define the cowpunk genre with their aggressive, irreverent style.
Laid Back Country Picker is the alter ego of Kentucky educator David Prince, delivers a unique blend of 1970s guitar rock, honky-tonk, and country punk. Performing alongside his wife, Teresa (“Honey”), on drums, their duo offers high-energy shows infused with wit and authenticity.
13
Justin Willman: Illusionati Tour
Magic/Comedy
Brown Theatre
Justin Willman’s Illusionati tour is an interactive evening of magic, comedy, and mind control for the whole family. Prepare to join a secret society of wonder where the only conspiracy theories are about how the hell he does these things.
14
Turn the Page: A Tribute to Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band
Mercury Ballroom
Turn the Page is the ultimate tribute to the legendary Bob Seger, delivering a powerhouse performance that captures the raw energy and soulful sound of the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer.
With spot-on vocals, classic hits like “Night Moves” and “Old Time Rock and Roll,” and authentic musicianship, this band takes audiences on a nostalgic ride through Seger’s iconic catalog.
15
Boney James
Contemporary Jazz/R&B
Old Forester’s Paristown Hall
Boney James is a Grammy-nominated saxophonist and composer known for his smooth jazz and R&B-influenced sound. Active since the early 1990s, he has released numerous chart-topping albums, blending soulful melodies with contemporary jazz grooves. With his expressive playing and crossover appeal, James remains one of the genre’s most popular artists, earning widespread acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
16
The Gertrude Polk Brown Lecture Series
The Fate of the Day: The War for America, Fort Ticonderoga to Charleston, 1777-1780
Brown Theatre
costly and uncertain, battles rage at Brandywine, Saratoga, and Monmouth. Timed for the Revolution’s 250th anniversary, this deeply researched narrative sheds new light on the sacrifices democracy demands.
Atkinson is a Pulitzer-winning historian and bestselling author.
19
Modest Mouse
Indie Rock
Old Forestor’s Paristown Hall
they gained mainstream success with “Good News for People Who Love Bad News” (2004), featuring the hit “Float On.” Their music blends indie, punk, and experimental rock.
19 TO JULY 26
Kentucky Shakespeare Festival Hamlet
Central Park
Shakespeare’s unparalleled masterpiece is a haunting tale of corruption, betrayal, and revenge. Follow Hamlet through an electrifying and unforgettable journey into the human soul. Free to attend.
20 & 21
Billy Strings
Bluegrass/Rock/Jam
Rupp Arena (Lexington)
Billy Strings is a Grammy-winning bluegrass musician renowned for his masterful guitar skills and dynamic
21
Jake Owen w. Uncle Kracker Country/Rock
French Lick Resort (French Lick)
Jake Owen, a country music mainstay, boasts 10 No. 1 singles, 2.5 billion streams, and ACM awards. Known for hits like “Barefoot Blue Jean Night,” he’s also a philanthropist and music executive. Uncle Kracker blends country, pop, and rock, delivering hits like “Follow Me” and “Drift Away.” A former Kid Rock collaborator, he’s topped pop, adult contemporary, and country charts.
25
WFPK’s Waterfront Wednesday Anderson East, The Kentucky Gentlemen and Candi Jenkins Big Four Lawn at Waterfront Park
WFPK’s Waterfront Wednesdays is a free, monthly concert series held at Louisville’s Waterfront Park from April through September. Hosted by Louisville Public Media’s WFPK-FM, 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, familyfriendly atmosphere celebrating music and community.
28 Louisville Philharmonia Orchestra Iroquois Amphitheater
The Louisville Philharmonia, known as “The Musician’s Orchestra,” is a volunteer ensemble composed of local professional and semi-professional musicians, dedicated to performing classical masterworks and enriching Louisville’s cultural community.
28
End of the Line: A Tribute to the Allman Brothers
The Whirling Tiger
End of the Line is a premier Allman Brothers Band tribute act, renowned for authentically capturing the group's soulful Southern rock essence. Led by Justin Smith's raspy vocals, the band features dual guitarists Adam Gorman and Noah Pavey, emulating the iconic Duane Allman and Dickey Betts. With endorsements from The Big House Museum, they honor the Allman Brothers' legacy through dynamic performances and faithful renditions of classic tracks.
28
Downtown Pickleball Street Fest
South Fourth Street, between Jefferson and Market Streets
The Downtown Pickleball Street Fest, hosted by Louisville Downtown Partnership, celebrates the sport of Pickleball and the vibrancy of Downtown. The fest includes Pickleball clinics, open play, and a tournament. Additionally, there will be live entertainment, food trucks, and local breweries.
JULY
2
311 & Badflower
Rock, Reggae, Hip-Hop, Funk
Iroquois Amphitheater
Over the years, 311 has cultivated a dedicated and passionate fanbase, known as the “Excitable Ones.” This community of fans is a testament to the band’s ability to create music that resonates on a deep, emotional level, offering a sense of belonging and connection. 311’s commitment to their fans is reflected not only in their music but also in their interactions with the community, both online and in person.
5
Born Cross Eyed
Grateful Dead Tribute Band
The Whirling Tiger
Born Cross Eyed is a high-energy Grateful Dead tribute band based in Kentucky. Known for their passionate performances and deep improvisational jams, the band captures the spirit of the Dead with authentic musicianship and a love for psychedelic rock. Blending classic Dead tunes with their own unique flair, Born Cross Eyed delivers an unforgettable live experience that keeps fans dancing and celebrating the music of one of rock’s most legendary bands.
3 TO 27
Kentucky Shakespeare Festival
Cymbeline Central Park
Don’t miss Shakespeare’s inventive fairy tale of love, loss, and legacy… An evil stepmother, long-lost princes, a banished lover, dastardly villains, and a lionhearted princess on a quest to Happily Ever After. Free to attend.
11
Southern Accents: The Ultimate Tribute to Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
Mercury Ballroom
Southern Accents is a premier Tom Petty tribute band that authentically recreates the music and energy of the legendary rock icon. Based in Nashville, they deliver passionate performances featuring Petty’s greatest hits, blending heartfelt vocals with masterful instrumentation. With a deep respect for Petty’s legacy, Southern Accents provides fans with an unforgettable, high-energy live experience.
15
Primus: Onward & Upward Tour Funk/Metal/Rock Iroquois Amphitheater
Primus is an experimental rock band known for its quirky, genre-defying sound blending funk, metal, and progressive rock. Led by virtuoso bassist Les Claypool, the band delivers eccentric lyrics, complex rhythms, and a truly unconventional musical experience.
15
Carver Commodore
Alt. Rock/Indie Pop/Southern Grit Zanzabar
Carver Commodore is a five-piece alternative rock band from Florence, Alabama, known for their energetic fusion of garage rock, indie pop, and Southern grit. Their sound draws comparisons to The Strokes and Cage the Elephant, blending catchy hooks with raw, guitar-driven anthems. Their 2023 EP If Nothing Happens showcases a more introspective, stripped-down approach, reflecting on the challenges of creative life and artistic perseverance.
25
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band Country, Folk Rock, Bluegrass French Lick Resort (French Lick)
For nearly six decades, the three-time Grammy Award-winning Nitty Gritty Dirt Band has entertained audiences with their top-shelf musicianship and timeless hits. Now, the band that has carried a torch for American country and roots music is saying so long to the highways and byways they’ve crossed countless times throughout their career. All the Good Times: The Farewell Tour is one last chance to experience the Dirt Band’s mix of reimagined classics and compelling
newer works, including their first major hit “Mr. Bojangles” and chart-toppers “Long Hard Road (The Sharecropper’s Dream),” “Modern Day Romance,” and “Fishin’ in the Dark.”
26
An Evening with Vince Gill Country
The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall
One of the most popular artists in modern country music, Vince Gill is famous for his top-notch songwriting, world-class guitar playing and warm, soaring tenor, all wrapped up in a quick and easy wit. Gill achieved his big breakthrough in 1990 with “When I Call Your Name,” which won both the Country Music Association’s (CMA) Single and Song of the Year awards, as well as a Grammy for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male. In total, Gill has won 18 CMA Awards, 22 Grammy Awards, and eight Academy of Country Music Awards. In 1991, Gill was invited to become a member of The Grand Ole Opry, and in 2007 was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
29-AUGUST 3
Broadway in Louisville
The Wiz
The Kentucky Center, Whitney Hall
Everybody Rejoice! The Tony Awardwinning musical The Wiz is coming to Louisville! This groundbreaking twist on “The Wizard of Oz” changed the face of Broadway — from its iconic score packed with soul, gospel, rock, and fingersnapping ’70s funk to its stirring tale of Dorothy’s journey to find her place in a contemporary world. Audiences get to enjoy the epic grooves of such beloved, timeless hits as “Ease on Down the Road,” which became the show’s break-out single, and the bona fide classic “Home” in this spectacular revival.
29 Bare Naked Ladies Pop/Rock Iroquois Amphitheater
Barenaked Ladies is a Canadian rock band known for their quirky, upbeat sound blending pop, rock, and alternative influences. Their music features witty lyrics, catchy melodies, and a mix of acoustic and electric instrumentation. Popular hits like “If I Had $1,000,000” showcase their playful and humorous style.
30
WFPK’s Waterfront Wednesday
Ben Sollee and Friends, Marzz, Sydney Sleadd and the Swarm 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.
AUGUST
1 & 2
Louisville Jazz Festival Iroquois Amphitheater
Louisville jazz festival 2025 with the top names performing in the beautiful Iroquois amphitheater. Featuring the legendary Victor Wooten & the Wooten Brothers, the sultry sounds of Najee and of course the incredible Brian Simpson.
Know of a great concert, performance, or arts event we should share? Email the details to ddreisbach@theaudiencegroup.com. For a full list of our preferred Event Outlook, visit Audience502.com.
closing june 22
Louisville, KY — Step into the world of trailblazing women who defied expectations to reshape art, culture, and society. Brilliant Exiles: American Women in Paris, 1900–1939 celebrates the painters, writers, dancers, publishers, musicians, and designers who found freedom in the City of Light. This major exhibition features more than 65 artworks across various media, unveiling the extraordinary stories of American women who left the constraints of early 20th-century America to pursue artistic and professional ambitions in France.
The Speed Art Museum is proud to be the first and one of only two venues outside Washington, D.C. to host this landmark exhibition in 2025. Originally debuted at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, this exhibition offers a rare opportunity to explore a groundbreaking collection.
This exhibition has been organized by the National Portrait Gallery and received Federal support from the Smithsonian American Women’s History Initiative Pool, administered by the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum.
Frances Cranmer Greenman (1890–1981)
Detail of Self Portrait
Oil on canvas, 1923
The Minneapolis Institute of Art,
Gift of Mrs. Patrick Butler
UNCOVERING A QUIET GIANT
G.C. Coxe Exhibition at the Speed
by Speed Art Museum
This summer, the Speed Art Museum invites visitors to rediscover one of Louisville’s most quietly influential artists with the exhibition G.C. Coxe: The Dean of Louisville Art. Opening June 7, the show marks the latest in a series of exhibitions curated by Dr. fari nzinga, focused on lifting up the legacies of historically significant Black artists connected to the region.
“Coxe was someone who always made himself available,” says nzinga. “He wasn’t just a talented artist — he was a mentor, a teacher, a presence. That’s how he earned the nickname ‘The Dean.’ He guided so many others, both professionals and hobbyists, and left a legacy that stretches far beyond what people may realize.”
Born in 1908, G.C. Coxe came of age in an era of limited opportunity for Black artists. He worked for years as a technical illustrator at Fort Knox and built sets for local theaters, all while quietly creating his own body of abstract artwork. It wasn’t until his late 40s — after the University of Louisville officially integrated — that Coxe was able to formally study art. That pursuit never became his profession, but it remained a lifelong passion.
“He never made a living solely through his art,” nzinga explains. “He supported himself and his family through other work. Yet he produced an incredible amount —
much of it lost to time, sadly. Floods and even fires destroyed some pieces, but what survives is deeply powerful and finally getting the spotlight it deserves.”
The exhibit draws from a wide array of sources — local collectors, institutions like the Filson Historical Society, and
even Coxe’s stepdaughter’s family, who contributed rarely seen works from Florida and California. The show brings together a mix of screen prints, paintings, and works on paper — many of them abstract, a stylistic hallmark that reveals Coxe’s technical background and deeply personal vision.
“People might be surprised by how abstract his work is,” says nzinga. “These are not literal representations. His pieces ask you to interpret, to engage. They’re visual conversations — about his community, his experience, his relationships.”
nzinga compares the viewing experience to reading a challenging novel: “Like Toni Morrison once said, ‘That’s reading, darling.’ This show asks something of you, but it also rewards that attention.”
The exhibition is part of an ongoing effort by the Speed to surface the stories of under-recognized Black artists from the mid-20th century. Previous solo shows in the series have included Dr. Robert L. Douglas — an artist, scholar, and founding director of the University of Louisville’s Pan-African Studies Department — and William M. Duffy, a key figure in the Louisville Art Workshop that began forming in 1957.
“The Workshop is this amazing, littleknown chapter of local history,” says nzinga. “Before I came to the Speed, I taught African American art history and always cited the Spiral Collective in New York as the first Black visual arts collective in the U.S. But Louisville had something happening even earlier — in the West End, in 1957.”
Coxe played an essential role in that movement, mentoring younger artists and teaching screen printing techniques that were foundational to the Workshop’s early success. His influence extends to celebrated figures like Sam Gilliam,
a fellow Louisvillian whose national renown never eclipsed his deep roots in the community.
“Even if you’ve never heard of G.C. Coxe,” nzinga says, “you’ve seen his impact. He helped shape a generation of artists in this city. This exhibition isn’t just about looking back — it’s about understanding where our artistic traditions come from, and who helped make them possible.”
G.C. Coxe: The Dean of Louisville Art opens runs through September at the Speed Art Museum. An exhibition catalog will be available in the museum’s gift shop, offering deeper insights into Coxe’s life and work. This is a rare chance to experience the legacy of a visionary who helped lay the groundwork for Louisville’s Black art community — don’t miss it.
For more information, visit SpeedMuseum.org
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!
DOWNTOWN LOUISVILLE COMES ALIVE
Food, Film, and Fun Await This Summer and Fall
by Audience Magazine
The Louisville Downtown Partnership (LDP) is at the forefront of revitalizing the city’s downtown area through a series of engaging events and initiatives during the summer and fall seasons. These programs aim to foster community engagement, support local businesses, and enhance the vibrancy of the city's urban core.
FOOD TRUCK WEDNESDAYS
Every Wednesday through October, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
South Fourth Street between Jefferson and Market Streets
Food Truck Wednesdays have become a staple in Downtown Louisville, offering a diverse array of culinary delights from local food trucks. Each week features a rotating lineup of vendors, such as Abol Coffee, Celtic Pig, and Frickled
Pickle Express, providing options ranging from gourmet dishes to classic favorites like burgers and tacos. Live music performances, like those by Logan Leet, enhance the festive atmosphere. The event is sponsored by JPMorgan Chase and supported by Louisville Metro’s Department of Licenses, Permits, and Investigations, which assists food trucks in obtaining proper licensing.
DOWNTOWN WORK PERKS
Every fourth Wednesday through October, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Alongside Food Truck Wednesday on South Fourth Street
Downtown Work Perks is a monthly initiative designed to appreciate downtown employees. Held concurrently with Food Truck Wednesday, this program offers complimentary perks
to the first 50 downtown workers each month. For instance, in May, participants received free fresh produce from Sunny Acres Farms. The initiative aims to foster a sense of community and rejuvenate the downtown area by encouraging interactions among workers and supporting local business.
DOWNTOWN DRIVE-IN
Select Friday nights through October; amphitheater opens at 8 p.m., movies begin at sunset
Brown-Forman Amphitheater, Waterfront Park, 1301 River Road.
The Downtown Drive-In series transforms the Brown-Forman Amphitheater into an open-air cinema experience. Attendees can enjoy a selection of classic and family-friendly films under the stars. The 2025 lineup includes:
Open Play at Baird Urban Sports Park, 615 W. Main St.
• July 11: “Pretty in Pink” (PG-13)
• August 1: “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids” (PG)
• August 22: “Men in Black” (PG-13)
• September 19: “Moana” (PG)
• September 26: “Jaws” (PG)
Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. Local vendors, including Ten20 Craft Brewery, offer snacks and beverages for purchase. The events are free and dog-friendly, providing a relaxed environment for all ages.
OPEN PLAY AT BAIRD URBAN SPORTS PARK
Monday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Baird Urban Sports Park, 615 W. Main St.
Baird Urban Sports Park offers open play opportunities for pickleball and wiffle ball enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a mid-week office break or a weekend activity with friends, the park provides a welcoming space for casual games. Participants are asked to bring their own
equipment. The park's accessible location and extended hours make it a convenient option for downtown workers and residents alike.
These events collectively contribute to the vibrancy of Downtown Louisville, offering residents and visitors alike a variety of engaging activities throughout the summer and fall seasons. For more information and updates on these events, visit LouisvilleDowntown.org
CULTURAL PASS GOES DIGITAL
FUND FOR THE ARTS SUMMER PROGRAMS
KICK OFF MAY 31 WITH NEW MOBILE APP by Fund for the Arts
As schools across Louisville and Southern Indiana dismiss for summer break, families have a new tool to keep kids engaged, learning, and having fun all season long. The 2025 Cultural Pass and Summer Reading Program officially kick off on May 31, offering young people and their families free access to arts, culture, and educational experiences — and this year, there's a big upgrade: the launch of the brand-new Cultural Pass App.
For the first time, participants can browse events, create custom schedules, get reminders, and even check in at participating venues — all from their phones. The goal, organizers say, is to make the Cultural Pass even more accessible and easier to use.
“We’re incredibly excited to introduce the city to the Cultural Pass App as we work to expand this beloved program and make it more accessible to everyone in our community,” said Andre Kimo Stone Guess, President and CEO of Fund for the Arts. “It is our hope that the Cultural Pass App brings more families on more visits to more partners than ever before, helping our young people get engaged and stay engaged in their arts and culture ecosystem.”
The Cultural Pass is a free program that opens the doors to more than 45 arts, cultural, science, nature, and heritage institutions across Louisville and Southern Indiana. Running from May 31 through August 10, it is available to those who live or work in Jefferson or Bullitt counties in Kentucky, and Clark, Floyd, or Harrison counties in Indiana.
To celebrate the season launch, the Louisville Free Public Library’s Main Branch will host a special Summer Reading and Cultural Pass Kick Off event on May 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Families can enjoy performances and activities from Cultural Pass partners like the Kentucky Science Center, Speed Art Museum, and the Louisville Zoo, alongside food vendors, roaming characters, and hands-on fun for all ages. Staff will also be on hand to assist with signing up for the Summer Reading Program and helping families download and navigate the new Cultural Pass App.
For those unable to download the app, accessibility help is available at participating libraries, including Louisville Free Public Library, Bullitt County Public Library, Charlestown Clark County Public Library, The Floyd County Library, Harrison County Library, and Jeffersonville Township Public Library.
The Cultural Pass App is a collaborative effort presented by Fund for the Arts, Louisville Metro Government, Arts & Culture Alliance (ACA), and the Kentuckiana Cultural Consortium, with support from a wide range of local foundations and sponsors.
Meanwhile, the Louisville Free Public Library's Summer Reading Program continues its longstanding tradition of encouraging kids and teens to read for pleasure throughout the summer. The free, 10-week program offers prizes and incentives to keep young readers motivated.
Participants who complete the program — by reading a set umber of books depending on their age — will earn a backpack or shoulder bag, plus passes to attractions like the Kentucky Science Center, Louisville Bats games, Racing Louisville FC matches, and more. Sweet treats from local favorites like Fazoli’s, Ehrler’s, Raising Cane’s, and Georgia’s Sweet Potato Pie Co. are also part of the rewards.
The Summer Reading Program is open to all children from infancy through 12th grade. To register, visit LFPL.org/SummerReading or call (502) 574-1611.
With two powerhouse programs ready to roll and a new app to make access even easier, Louisville families are all set for a summer packed with adventure, learning, and fun — all at no cost.
StageOne Family Theatre is one of many local performing arts organizations included in Fund for the Arts' Cultural Pass program.
DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT
BUCKHORN LAKE STATE RESORT PARK
Hazard, Kentucky
Deep in the mountains of southeastern Kentucky, just outside the town of Hazard, lies Buckhorn Lake. By damming the Middle Fork of the Kentucky River for flood control, this 1,200-acre lake became an idyllic setting for a Kentucky State Park, one of many created during the great recreation boom of the 1960s.
The land where Buckhorn lodge stands today once held a schoolhouse, and around it, in fact, an entire community. Park visitors can view a miniature recreation of the entire town of Bowlingtown in the lodge lobby, handcrafted by Ance McIntosh Jr.
A visit to Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park means being transported away from the cares of everyday life. A room with a private balcony at the lodge offers views of Buckhorn Lake, the sparkling pool,
and forested hills, as well as a quick walk to the lodge restaurant serving park favorites like fried catfish and Kentucky Hot Browns. Two- and three-bedroom cottages are also a great choice for those wishing for more privacy, a full kitchen, and their own deck and grill.
While doing nothing at all is certainly enticing in this peaceful setting, a game of miniature golf, lakeside shuffleboard,
or a hike on the Leatherwood and Moonshine Hollow Trails can keep the whole family entertained. To fully take advantage of the park’s namesake, a sandy beach is open seasonally, or the marina rents pontoon and fishing boats, and has a launching ramp if you prefer to bring your boat.
Be sure to explore specialty shops in the town of Hazard and see the famous Mother Goose House, the one-of-a-kind log cathedral built in 1928, or take the long way home to try to spot the 40 4-foot by 4-foot quilt blocks that have been painted and displayed throughout the region.
Learn more about this mountain gem along with Kentucky’s other 44 state parks, including 17 resort parks with restaurants, 30 campgrounds, and 13 golf courses by visiting parks.ky.gov.
FRENCH LICK RESORT WEEKEND CONCERT GETAWAY
The only thing better than a concert night? How about an entire concert weekend!
A short 75-minute jaunt from Louisville, French Lick Resort is the sweet spot of entertainment destinations: easy drive, great acts at the right price, and — best of all — so much to explore at the resort before or after the concert. Make a weekend of it at one of their three hotels: the historic French Lick Springs Hotel, West Baden Springs Hotel, or the Valley Tower Hotel.
JAKE OWEN WITH SPECIAL GUEST UNCLE KRACKER
Saturday, June 21
Why you’ll want a seat at this show: Two terrific acts on one ticket. You can “Drift Away” with Uncle Kracker, who’s always the soundtrack of good times with his boldly breezy blend of country, pop, rock, and hip-hop. And could Jake Owen’s hits be more perfect singalong songs for summer nights? Kick back for a “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” and go “Beachin’” with one of country music’s biggest voices who has produced 10 No. 1 singles.
Add it to the weekend itinerary: Book a Bourbon Tasting Train Package and pre-game for the concert in style. This joint venture between the resort and the nearby French Lick Scenic Railway offers a train excursion with bourbons and paired appetizers, plus overnight accommodations at the end of the evening. You can take the 5 p.m. train ride and be back in plenty of time to see the headliners take the concert stage at 8.
More of a wine person? Try the afternoon Wine & Canvas event at West Baden Springs Hotel, and have dinner at Ballard’s in the Atrium under the hotel’s iconic dome before the concert.
NITTY GRITTY DIRT BAND
Friday, July 25
Why you’ll want a seat at this show: It’s the last call to see this three-time Grammy-winning group. They’re taking one final victory lap on All the Good Times: The Farewell Tour. You’ll be able to hear their first major hit, “Mr. Bojangles,” plus chart-toppers “Long Hard Road (The Sharecropper’s Dream),” “Modern Day Romance,” and “Fishin’ in the Dark.”
Add it to the weekend itinerary: Make it over to French Lick Casino and keep the good times (and the music) rolling. They’ll have DJ entertainment going until 1 a.m. both nights this weekend with Hot Summer Nights on Friday and country line dancing on Saturday. Once you’ve tried your hand at the slot machines, blackjack table, or sportsbook, it’s just a short walk or a free trolley ride to your hotel room.
KIP MOORE
Saturday, August 23
Why you’ll want a seat at this show: Because the whole world has caught on to this country star who’s produced more than a dozen chart-topping singles. Moore’s tour sweeps through Canada, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Netherlands, and the U.K. this year before coming back to the U.S.A. to thrill fans with “Somethin’
‘Bout a Truck,” “Hey Pretty Girl,” “Beer Money,” and “More Girls Like You.”
Add it to the weekend itinerary: Have dinner with an unforgettable view at the Sunday evening Sunset Dinner at The Mansion at Pete Dye — well worth staying an extra day. Horse-drawn carriage rides at the hotels are another slice of luxury. And if you’re looking for some fun in the sun, play a round at Sand Creek, the resort’s new short course perfect for seasoned golfers and firsttimers alike.
SHAGGY
Friday, October 11
Why you’ll want a seat at this show: After a summer full of country and roots artists, switch up the beat with one of the biggest reggae artists of all time. Even after all these years, you haven’t forgotten the words to Shaggy’s classics, like “Angel” and “It Wasn’t Me.” A twotime Grammy winner, Shaggy’s feel-good, high-energy shows always deliver.
Add it to the weekend itinerary: See the future stars of golf in their biggest event of the season. The Korn Ferry Tour Championship returns to The Pete Dye Course at French Lick Resort, where the tour’s top finishers will be awarded their PGA Tour cards for the 2026 season. You just might see world-class golfers of the future, as players like Scottie Scheffler and Zach Johnson are Korn Ferry Tour alums.
For tickets and more information, visit FrenchLick.com or call 888-936-9360.
