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HAPPY FALL, Y’ALL
I was benevolent and good; misery made me a fiend. Make me happy, and I shall again be virtuous.
– from Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
Amy Higgs Managing Editor
G. Douglas Dreisbach Publisher
While Halloween is still more than a month away, we prefer to mark the start of Spooky Season in September — when the evenings cool off, and the leaves start to turn. Pumpkin spice latté, anyone?
Seriously, though, it’s not just the weather that makes us want to get cozy by the firepit — Louisville’s arts community lights up the season with scary stories and spinetingling performances. In this issue of Audience Magazine, we highlight a few of them, including Kentucky Shakespeare’s production of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein (page 20), and the thrilling Victorian Ghost Walk in Old Louisville, entering its 17th year (page 18).
But if having the bejesus scared out of you isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other events on the calendar this fall that are guaranteed to bring warmer, fuzzier emotions. One of them is Water for Elephants, the next Broadway in Louisville show on deck for October. Read more about this inspiring story of hope on page 14
If you’re looking to mix bourbon with laughs (um, yes please!), snag your tickets to one of comedian Jim Gaffigan’s shows next month. Hurry, though. They’re almost gone. Learn more on page 16. For literally anything else your heart may desire in terms of live performances, check out our comprehensive Event Outlook, starting on page 7
Thank you to our generous advertisers for allowing us to bring you these and more colorful stories free of charge, in both online and print formats. Be on the lookout for our next print edition on newsstands in October!
And don’t forget, now is a great time to harvest the best deals on tickets for the rest of the 2025-26 season.
Stay Spooky,
Amy & Doug
KENTUCKY TOURISM
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
PNC BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE Loss, Resilience & Hope 18
Step Into the Shadows 4
AUDIENCE EVENT OUTLOOK Fall Arts & Entertainment in Louisville
16 JIM GAFFIGAN
Bourbon Comedy & Kentucky Charm
20
KENTUCKY SHAKESPEARE
Marry Shelley's Frankenstein 7
VICTORIAN GHOST WALK
TICKET GIVEAWAYS SPECIAL INVITES SHOW PREVIEWS
PUBLISHER
The Audience Group, Inc.
G. Douglas Dreisbach
MANAGING EDITOR
Amy Higgs
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Rhonda Mefford
SALES & MARKETING
G. Douglas Dreisbach
CONTRIBUTORS
Louisville Historic Tours
PNC Broadway in Louisville Kentucky Tourism, Arts, and Heritage Cabinet
Kentucky Shakespeare
Your source for the arts and entertainment in Louisville and surrounding areas. © Copyright 2025. The Audience Group, Inc. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Audience® Magazine is published by The Audience Group, Inc. 136 St. Matthews Avenue #200 Louisville, KY 40207 502.212.5177 | Audience502.com TO
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
the Cover: Comedian Jim Gaffigan talks bourbon and more at the Bomhard Theater October 7-9.
Photo by Paul Mobley. Read more on page 16
CUMBERLAND FALLS STATE RESORT PARK
Every true Kentuckian has a Kentucky bucket list. Whether that list leans towards distilleries, historic homes, underground adventures, or natural beauty, it certainly includes Cumberland Falls in Corbin.
The volume of water pouring over Cumberland Falls is the second greatest east of the Mississippi River after Niagara Falls, thus earning the moniker of "Niagara of the South." Yet, Cumberland Fall's most prominent feature is the Western Hemisphere's only regularly occurring moonbow, similar to a rainbow but only viewable on a clear night during a full moon.
Of course, you will need more than one night to take advantage of all this spectacular place has to offer. Plan to stay at the Dupont Lodge, just steps from the Riverview Restaurant. Choose a campsite, or reserve a more private 1-bedroom cabin or a 2-bedroom deluxe cottage, some built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The CCC played an enormous role in the park's
development by constructing everything from trails and picnic shelters to the lodge and cabins.
While lounging on the back patio overlooking the Cumberland River is one way to enjoy an afternoon, a hike on any of the 20 miles of trails is a memorable moment you don't want to miss.
The Wildflower Trail will delight yearround with its boulders and broad-leafed flora, but a visit in spring will offer a multitude of prized wildflower photos.
The more strenuous Eagle Falls Trail may test your fortitude (and calves), but the
cool mist from Eagle Falls at the end will surely reward your efforts. Dog Slaughter Falls Trail is another trek where the fern and moss-covered journey is as magical as the destination. Also, it lets you check off the third waterfall from your list in one weekend! While Dog Slaughter Falls itself is on National Forest property, you can pick up the "long trail" to get there from just past the Cumberland Falls Visitor's Center.
For those wishing to enjoy this park through water recreation, stop by the Visitor's Center to ask about river paddling and tour opportunities offered by nearby vendors. The Visitor Center also provides ample opportunities for shopping, family entertainment like gem mining, and the ultimate photo op in front of the roaring falls.
Learn more about this mountain gem, its moonbow viewing options, and Kentucky's other 44 state parks, including 17 resort parks with restaurants, 30 campgrounds, and 13 golf courses by visiting parks.ky.gov.
Cumberland Falls Lodge
Rafting at Cumberland Falls
he KY Lotter y has r aised over $5 BILLION for colle ge scholar ships and g r ants.
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!
AUDIENCE EVENT OUTLOOK
FALL ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT IN LOUISVILLE
SEPTEMBER
THROUGH 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 11th attacks. What follows are stories of community, optimism, and hope. The characters and stories are from real life testimonials and the themes of coming together are universal.
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!
As the seasons turn, Louisville’s stages and venues are alive with an incredible lineup of concerts, theater productions, and cultural happenings to carry you through September, October, and November. From Broadway blockbusters at The Kentucky Center to intimate live music experiences and high-energy arena shows, fall brings a mix of performances that promise to inspire, entertain, and delight.
Whether you’re planning a night out at a major touring concert, looking to discover a rising star in one of the city’s smaller venues, or eager to experience innovative new theater, there’s something for every audience this season.
We invite you to explore our top picks and mark your calendars for the best in live entertainment across Louisville and beyond. For a full list of performing arts and entertainment events in Louisville, check out our complete event calendar at Audience502.com
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
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.
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.
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.
25
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
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.
28
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
23
Melissa Etheridge & The Indigo Girls Iroquois Amphitheater
rock, and power pop. Rising to fame in the 1990s with hits like “Santa Monica” and “Father of Mine,” they remain a nostalgic favorite.
30
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:
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
1
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
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.
4
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.
5 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.
5-6
Bowmanfest Bowman Field
Take flight at Bowmanfest with vintage aircraft, family activities, food trucks, and live entertainment. This aviation celebration brings history and fun together at Louisville’s historic Bowman Field.
7-9
Jim Gaffigan: A Bourbon Set Stand-up Comedy
Bomhard Theater, 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.
10-11
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.
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.
11
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.
15
Taste of Louisville
Mellwood Art Center
Savor Louisville’s culinary scene with signature dishes, craft cocktails, and desserts from top local restaurants at Taste of Louisville. A true foodie favorite, this one-night event supports area nonprofits.
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!
18
Steins on Main Fourth Street Live!
Raise a glass at Steins on Main, Louisville’s Oktoberfest-inspired block party. Enjoy craft beers, live music, German bites, and fall festivities at Fourth Street Live! for an evening of Bavarian-style fun.
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 F3 after year, fans anxiously await the moment they can officially hit play on Straight No Chaser favorites.
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.
7-15
Kentucky Opera La traviata Kentucky Opera Center for Cultural Health
For the first time in over a decade, this iconic Verdi opera returns to Kentucky Opera. This groundbreaking production at the Opera Center will bring you face to face with hope and despair, surrounding you with thrilling music, and gorgeous
sets and costumes. Immerse yourself in the world of Violetta, a determined and famed courtesan, who abandons everything for love.
11
Whose Live Anyway? Improv
Brown Theatre
Whose Live Anyway? is 90 minutes of hilarious improvised comedy and song all based on audience suggestions. Cast members Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Jeff B. Davis, and Joel Murray will leave you gasping with the very witty scenes they invent before your eyes. Audience participation is key to the show, so bring your suggestions and you might be asked to join the cast onstage! Whose Live Anyway? showcases some of the improv games made famous on the long-running TV show as well as some exciting new ones, featuring musical direction by Bob Derkach.
12
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
Elf: The Musical Derby Dinner Playhouse
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
Aziz Ansari: Hypothetical Tour
Comedy
Brown Theatre
Ansari is an award-winning actor, director, writer and comedian. He co-created, writes, directs, and stars in the Netflix original series “Master of None,” for which he has won two Emmys for Outstanding Comedy Writing as well as Emmy and DGA Award nominations for his directing. In October of 2025, he will release the film, “Good Fortune,” which he wrote, directed, and co-stars with Keanu Reeves and Seth Rogen. He is also known for co-starring in NBC’s “Parks and Recreation,” and for being one of the few headlining comedians ever to sell out Madison Square Garden.
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.
15
NuLu Jingle Fest
NuLu District
Kick off the holiday season at NuLu Jingle Fest with live music, festive drinks, shopping, and street-side cheer. The NuLu District transforms into a winter wonderland for one joyful night.
19
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.
20 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.
28
‘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!
DECEMBER
2-7
PNC Broadway in Louisville
Kimberly Akimbo
Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center
Kimberly Akimbo is the winner of five 2023 Tony Awards including Best Musical. Kimberly is about to turn 16 and recently moved with her family to a new town in suburban New Jersey. In this “howlingly funny heartbreaker of a show” (The New Yorker), Kim is forced to navigate family dysfunction, a rare genetic condition, her first crush — and possible felony charges. Ever the optimist, she is determined to find happiness against all odds and embark on a great adventure.
Know of a great concert, performance, or arts event we should share? Email the details to ddreisbach@theaudiencegroup.com.
PERFORMANCE PREVIEW
LOSS, RESILIENCE AND HOPE
WATER FOR ELEPHANTS TELLS THE POWERFUL STORY OF BELONGING by Audience Magazine
PERFORMANCE PREVIEW
BROADWAY IN LOUISVILLE PRESENTS Water For Elephants October 14-19, 2025
WHITNEY HALL, THE KENTUCKY CENTER
The lights of Broadway are ready to shine as Water for Elephants arrives at Whitney Hall at The Kentucky Center from October 14 through 19. This sweeping new musical adaptation of Sara Gruen’s beloved bestselling novel promises an evening that blends the heart of a love story with the breathtaking spectacle of the circus. After a Tony-nominated Broadway debut in 2024, the show is embarking on its first national tour, and Louisville audiences have the chance to experience the magic.
At its core, Water for Elephants is a story about loss, resilience, and finding hope in the most unexpected places. The plot follows Jacob Jankowski, a young man whose life takes a devastating turn when tragedy strikes just as he is about to complete his veterinary studies. With nothing to lose, he jumps aboard a passing train and discovers that it belongs to the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth, a Depression-era traveling circus.
STEPPING INTO THE BIG TOP
What makes Water for Elephants so remarkable as a theatrical event is the way it marries this deeply emotional narrative with the sheer visual wonder of circus artistry.
Louisville audiences can expect far more than a conventional book musical. From the moment the curtain rises, the production immerses theatergoers in the world of the big top through a combination of puppetry, acrobatics, aerial choreography, and live music. The result is a stage that feels alive, with performers soaring overhead, human and animal puppets moving with uncanny realism, and the sounds of a Depression-era circus band filling the hall.
Suddenly, Jacob finds himself immersed in a world of dazzling performers, harsh realities, and fragile dreams. There, he meets Marlena, the star equestrian, and forms a powerful bond with Rosie, the elephant who becomes the heart of the show. As love blossoms and rivalries flare, Jacob is forced to navigate loyalty, cruelty, and courage, all while discovering his own sense of belonging.
It is immersive storytelling at its finest — an experience that does not just tell you a story, but makes you feel as though you’ve stepped into it yourself.
Audiences may already be familiar with Water for Elephants from the best-selling novel or its 2011 film adaptation starring Reese Witherspoon and Robert Pattinson. But the stage version takes the story to another level, elevating the emotional resonance through live performance.
Unlike film, where the circus can feel distant and cinematic, the theater brings you right into the action — close enough to feel the rush of the performers flying through the air, or the hush that falls when Rosie takes center stage. This immediacy is one of the reasons critics hailed the Broadway production, which earned seven Tony Award nominations in 2024, including Best Musical.
For more information and tickets, visit Louisville.Broadway.com
BOURBON, COMEDY, AND KENTUCKY CHARM
Comedian Jim Gaffigan returns to Louisville October 7 – 9
by Doug Dreisbach, Audience Magazine
ECLICK HERE to listen to the interview in its entirety.
ight-time Grammy-nominated comedian and actor Jim Gaffigan returns to Louisville October 7 to 9 for a three-show run at the Bomhard Theater at The Kentucky Center — and this time, he’s bringing something extra neat: bourbon.
In a recent conversation with Audience Magazine, Gaffigan offered a spirited preview of what fans can expect from his upcoming Louisville performances, which he’s dubbed his “Bourbon Set.”
“My bourbon awakening — my bourbon birth, if you will — happened during the pandemic,” Gaffigan said. “Since then, I’ve developed material about bourbon, American whiskey, the culture, the
history, and just my general obsession with it.”
Louisville audiences will be the first to see this specialized show, though still part of his Everything is Wonderful tour, the Louisville performances are designed as a celebration of Kentucky’s signature spirit and its cultural impact.
“What’s great about doing shows in Kentucky is that you can talk about bourbon as long as you want and no one minds,” Gaffigan joked. “In other parts of the country, people start to wonder if I’m secretly working for the American Whiskey Council.”
Though known for clean comedy and signature bits about Hot Pockets and dad life, Gaffigan's latest material leans into
CAN'T-MISS COMEDY
his growing bourbon fandom, making Louisville an ideal city for this boozy blend of laughs.
A LOVE LETTER TO BOURBON COUNTRY
While Gaffigan admits he’s still developing his bourbon palate, his enthusiasm is unmistakable.
“I started out loving wheated bourbons, but now I really appreciate older, higherproof bottles,” he said. “I’m not big on flavored whiskey or finished bourbons. Give me something bold, something with character.”
Among his favorites? Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel, King of Kentucky, and local boutique brands like Pursuit United — not just for the flavor, but for the people behind the product.
“I love meeting the folks from these distilleries,” Gaffigan said. “They often come to the shows, and I get to nerd out with them backstage. And hey — sometimes I walk away with a free bottle. That doesn’t hurt.”
WRITING FOR THE BOURBON BUFFS
Gaffigan's writing process is constantly evolving, often shaped by his touring schedule and tested live on stage.
“I don’t really use a script,” he explained. “Every show is a little different. It depends on the city, the venue, and even my mood. Stand-up is a conversation, and the audience tells you what works.”
And while Gaffigan frequently writes with his wife, Jeannie, feedback from his five children is … mixed.
“My 16-year-old daughter? Zero interest. But my 21-year-old might find something funny — depending on the topic,” he said. “My shows are mostly for adults, especially the bourbon ones. That said, I like material that resonates with everyone — from teenagers to grandparents.”
A MIDWESTERN GUY WITH KENTUCKY TIES
Though born in Indiana, Gaffigan has a soft spot for Kentucky.
“I’ve become a real fan of Louisville,” he said. “I love the bourbon, the horseracing, and the charm. And I love walking Whiskey Row — it’s like Disneyland for bourbon drinkers.”
He also fondly recalled performing at Bourbon & Beyond and exploring nearby towns like Bardstown and Lexington.
“You’re going to think I’m pandering,” he admitted with a laugh, “but Kentucky really is one of my favorite places to perform.”
And while he's a touring powerhouse, don’t expect to spot him at too many live concerts.
“Honestly, I’d rather go out to dinner than stand in a crowded amphitheater,” he confessed. “At Bourbon & Beyond, I was definitely more excited about the bourbon than the music — though the lineup was fantastic.”
LAST CALL: WHY YOU SHOULDN’T MISS THIS SHOW
So, why should fans grab tickets to this bourbon-soaked comedy event?
“If you’re a bourbon nerd — or even just bourbon-curious — you’ll get it,” Gaffigan said. “These shows are a love letter to bourbon culture, and if you share the obsession, you’ll feel right at home.”
Jim Gaffigan’s “Bourbon Set” at the Bomhard Theater is nearly sold out. For tickets, visit KentuckyPerformingArts.org .
Jim Gaffigan
PHOTO BY PAUL MOBLEY
STEP INTO THE SHADOWS
The 17th Victorian Ghost Walk Returns to Haunt Old Louisville
by Audience Magazine
Every October, as the crisp autumn air settles over Old Louisville and the golden leaves crunch underfoot, the neighborhood transforms into something far more mysterious. Gas lamps flicker against red-brick mansions, voices whisper from shadowed porches, and, for three unforgettable nights, the spirits of the past rise once again. This year marks the 17th Victorian Ghost Walk, a beloved theatrical production that’s as much about community as it is about ghosts.
From October 17 to 19, history lovers, thrill seekers, and Halloween enthusiasts will converge at the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum, the starting point for an immersive journey through “America’s Most Haunted Neighborhood.”
Presented by the South Fourth Street Association and directed by local theater talent Keith McGill, the event offers 13 performances each night, with tours departing every 15 minutes starting at 6 p.m. For two hours, guests stroll through the stunning streets of Old Louisville, stepping onto porches and into parlors where costumed actors bring legendary local spirits to life.
A WALK THROUGH TIME — AND THE AFTERLIFE
The Victorian Ghost Walk is not your average haunted house or jumpscare attraction. It’s a living history performance woven into the very fabric of the neighborhood. Local actors inhabit real figures from Old Louisville's past —
some famous, others infamous, but all fascinating.
Regular attendees will recognize familiar characters like Jennie Bowman, the illfated maid murdered in her employers’ mansion; Lucinda, the self-declared Queen of America who roamed the streets in 1885; and the ill-starred millionaire Alfred Victor DuPont, whose tragic end was whispered about in scandal sheets of his day. Even Madison Julius Cawein, Kentucky’s own “Keats,” returns to recite his poetry and share tales steeped in Victorian-era ghost lore.
These portrayals aren’t just spooky fun — they’re windows into the city’s history. The performances blend folklore, fact, and theatrical flair, making each stop on the tour an education in the uncanny. Since the first Victorian Ghost Walk in
2004, it has evolved into Old Louisville's most-anticipated Halloween event of the season.
WHY THIS WALK MATTERS
While the ghosts may get top billing, the Victorian Ghost Walk has a very real-world mission: to raise funds for and awareness of the Old Louisville neighborhood. Known for its stunning collection of Victorian mansions — one of the largest contiguous displays of such architecture in the country — Old Louisville requires ongoing preservation efforts and local involvement to keep its historic charm alive.
The proceeds from this event not only specifically support community initiatives spearheaded by the South Fourth Street Association, but they also help promote outreach projects and neighborhood programming that keep the area vibrant year-round. This event also brings in valuable tourist dollars to local shops and small businesses.
Emma Pon Bench
In a time when so many historic districts across the country face threats from neglect or redevelopment, the Victorian Ghost Walk stands as a testament to what a community can achieve when it rallies around its heritage. Buying a ticket isn’t just purchasing an evening of entertainment — it’s an investment in the preservation of Louisville’s cultural treasures.
A LABOR OF LOVE
The magic of the Victorian Ghost Walk comes from more than just good storytelling. It’s built on the passion of dozens of local actors, dedicated volunteers, and homeowners and innkeepers who open their porches and parlors to visitors.
David Dominé, founder of Louisville Historic Tours and the mind behind the “America’s Most Haunted Neighborhood” moniker, has been at the heart of this tradition since its beginning. His expertise in Louisville’s history, both spectral and otherwise, infuses the event
with authenticity and intrigue. Under his creative guidance — and with McGill’s directorial vision and the production support of neighborhood liaison Susan Coleman Layman — the 17th installment promises to set a new bar for immersive, site-specific theater.
DON’T MISS YOUR CHANCE
Whether you’re a longtime Louisvillian, a curious first-timer, or an out-of-state repeat guest, the Victorian Ghost Walk offers a chance to see this part of the city in a new way. The architecture alone is worth the trip; add in the heartfelt performances, moonlit streets, and the thrill of brushing up against history’s darker edges, and you’ve got a fall night
AUDIENCE IS THE PREMIER MEDIA PLATFORM
you won’t soon forget — especially if you combine it with dinner at a neighborhood eatery such as Buck’s Restaurant or the Old Louisville Tavern, or a night at one of many charming B&Bs like the Louisville Bourbon Inn, The Dupont Mansion, Central Park Bed & Breakfast, or the Samuel Culbertson Mansion.
For more information, visit LouisvilleHistoricTours.com. Tickets for this rain-or-shine event are available now at redpintix.com with groups departing every quarter hour starting at 6 p.m. They sell out quickly every year, so secure yours early. Step into the shadows, meet the ghosts and help keep Old Louisville’s history alive — one haunting at a time.
As the publisher of Audience Magazine, the official playbills for Broadway in Louisville, Kentucky Shakespeare, and other groups, our goal is to promote and raise awareness of live theater performances, concerts, festivals, and events in Louisville.
Advertising with Audience allows companies to align their brands with arts and entertainment enthusiasts in Louisville as well as show their support for live theater performances, concerts, festivals and more in the community. For more information, call Audience publisher, Doug Dreisbach at (502) 212-2066 or email ddreisbach@theaudiencegroup.com.
Kentucky Shakespeare Brings Mary Shelley's FRANKENSTEIN to Life This October
This Halloween season, Kentucky Shakespeare continues its fall tradition with a chilling new production: Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein by David Catlin. The Louisville premiere runs October 1 to 26 at Kentucky Shakespeare’s Headquarters in Old Louisville.
First staged at Chicago’s Lookingglass Theatre in 2019, Catlin’s adaptation reimagines Shelley’s iconic gothic tale. On a stormy night in a villa attic, Shelley and her friends challenge one another to craft the scariest story. As Shelley’s tale of Victor Frankenstein and his creation unfolds, her own grief, fears, and secrets blur with the monstrous narrative. The
result is an electrifying exploration of love, vengeance, mortality, and the thin line between creator and creation.
The production is helmed by Producing Artistic Director Matt Wallace and features a powerhouse local cast: Zachary Burrell, Sasha Cifuentes, Mollie Murk, Nick Wills, and Crystian Wiltshire.
The award-winning design team includes Jesse AlFord (lighting), Karl Anderson (scenic), Laura Ellis (sound), Donna Lawrence-Downs (costumes), and Sam Powers (properties). Fight choreography is by Justin Jackson, dialect coaching by Joy Lanceta Coronel, and intimacy choreography by Hannah Pruitt.
PERFORMANCE DETAILS
Dates: October 1–26, 2025
Times: 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m. matinees on Saturdays and Sundays (no matinees opening weekend; added evening shows on Sunday, October 5, and Monday, October. 13)
Tickets: $29 | Available at KyShakespeare.com
Audience members can add a $20+ donation when purchasing tickets to receive a commemorative Frankenstein T-shirt.
Run time: ~2 hours, with one intermission
Venue: Kentucky Shakespeare Headquarters, 616 Myrtle St., Louisville, KY
Content advisory: This production includes mature themes — discussions of sex, depression, death (including loss of children), as well as depictions of violence and murder.
Supported by Louisville Metro, Fund for the Arts, Kentucky Arts Council, Givaudan Sense Colour, and Don Stevens & Libby Marbury.
Kentucky Shakespeare's production of Frankenstein features an all-star cast.
