Audience Magazine | February 2024 | Louisville Arts & Entertainment

A behind-the-scenes look into Louisville’s performing arts and entertainment during this unprecedented time of reflection and artistic creation.

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FEBRUARY 2024

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LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA LO Celebrates a Big Win for 'The American Project' Page 8

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AND THE WINNER IS… This is a dream come true, and it wouldn't have been possible without the support of our incredible city.”

– Louisville Orchestra on the Grammy for Best Classical Instrumental Solo (via Instagram)

When we tell you that Louisville’s performing arts community is award-winning, it’s not just lip service. As the kids say today, we’ve got the receipts to prove it. The most recent being a 2024 Grammy Award, presented to world-renowned pianist Yuja Wang and Louisville Orchestra’s brilliant Music Director Teddy Abrams for “The American Project.” It was a huge moment on a national stage, and we could not be happier for them.

LO and Teddy are two of our fair city’s treasures. It was wonderful to hear Teddy congratulate the people of Louisville in his Grammy acceptance speech — because when one of us wins, we all win. That’s just how we roll in the Louisville performing arts scene.

We don’t know about you, but we’ll be basking in the Grammy afterglow for a good long time. But that’s not the only reason to get excited during the month of February.

(Yes, there’s more!)

Amy Higgs Managing Editor

First of all, we're thrilled to share a first look at LO's 2024-25 season on page 12.

Check out our Event Outlook on pages 6 and 7 for a taste of the fantastic performances on the calendar between now and the end of March. If you’re looking for a way to support the arts, get the details about Kentucky Shakespeare’s annual fundraiser and special season announcement on page 15.

Plan ahead for festival season with a look at Bourbon & Beyond’s epic line-up on page 20.

If you’re looking for a fun option for locals and tourist alike, check out the Evan Williams Experience historical tour and tasting on page 16.

Thank you to our loyal advertisers for allowing us to bring you these great stories and more each month, free of charge.

Congratulations again to Yuja, Teddy, and LO. While they are winners whether they have hardware on the shelf or not, we believe their Grammy is one of many awards and recognitions to come. And no one will be cheering louder than us when that happens.

As the curtain rises,

Amy & Doug

G. Douglas Dreisbach Publisher

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TABLE of CONTENTS FEBRUARY 2024

8 BEST INSTRUMENTAL SOLO! 12 2024-25 SEASON SNAPSHOT

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Audience Event Outlook

Kentucky Shakespeare: Party for a Cause

Louisville's Bourbon Pioneer

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Winter Activities at Kentucky State Parks

Festival Fever: Spotlight on Bourbon & Beyond

Louisville: Then & Now

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TICKET

GIVEAWAYS

SPECIAL INVITES

SHOW PREVIEWS Subscribe to Visit Audience502.com for articles and information about the arts and entertainment in Louisville including performance previews, reviews, ticket giveaways and more. Subscribe to Audience Magazine for FREE to stay in the know about the hottest events and behind-the-scenes looks.

CLICK TO SUBSCRIBE FREE!

A behind-the-scenes look into Louisville’s performing arts and entertainment during this unprecedented time of reflection and artistic creation.

PUBLISHER

The Audience Group, Inc. G. Douglas Dreisbach MANAGING EDITOR

Amy Higgs CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Rhonda Mefford SALES & MARKETING

G. Douglas Dreisbach CONTRIBUTORS

Danny Wimmer Presents Evan Williams Bourbon Experience Louisville Orchestra Kentucky Shakespeare Festival Kentucky Tourism Arts & Heritage Cabinet University of Louisville Archives & Special Collections

TO READ CURRENT AND PREVIOUS AUDIENCE PLAYBILLS AND PERFORMANCE GUIDES, GO TO ISSUU.COM/AUDIENCE502.

On the Cover: Music Director Teddy Abrams celebrated Louisville Orchestra's first Grammy win on Feb. 4. Read more on page 8.

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 2024. 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 5

AUDIENCE EVENT OUTLOOK

THE HITS OF 2024 KEEP ON COMIN' As 2024 gets into full swing, we are excited about the wide array of awesome concerts, shows, performances, and festivals that are filling up the calendar. We hope you like our preferred event listings below and get the chance to check out a few of them.

FEBRUARY

Shakespeare Festival actors, tarot readings, poetry buskers from Sarabande Books, raffles, DJ & dancing, BrownForman cocktails, hors d’oeuvres by Proof, desserts, the group’s 64th season announcement, and more surprises!

10 StageOne Family Theatre: Number the Stars Bomhard Theater During the German occupation of Denmark in World War II, the Nazis closed down Jewish-owned businesses and began to round up the Jews for relocation to concentration camps for the final solution. In this stirring play, young Annemarie and Kirsti Johansen face soldiers, interrogations, fierce dogs, personal danger, the loss of loved ones, and their own fears as they try to help their friend Ellen Rosen escape across the ocean to Sweden safely.

16-24 Kentucky Opera: The Pirates of Penzance Opera | Brown Theatre

14 Jennifer Welch & Angie “Pumps” Sullivan – I’ve Had It – Hot Sh*t Tour Comedy | Bomhard Theater

10 Kentucky Shakespeare in Love 2024 Gala 21c Museum Hotel The special evening features live music from the Jerry Tolson Jazz Trio, theatrical performances from Kentucky

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Museum of Art at the Speed! Be the first to tour the exhibit with museum curators and enjoy entertainment, food, and a cash bar.

Jennifer Welch and Angie “Pumps” Sullivan are taking their podcast on the road. No city is safe from Jen and Pump’s extensive list of “Had Its.” Join this hilarious duo for a night of world class sh*t talking.

Performance dates are February 16, 18, 20, 22 and 24. Leap years come around every four years. For one young pirate, it causes mayhem and turmoil in this comedy about being a “slave to duty.”

W.S. Gilbert’s witty wordplay coupled with Arthur Sullivan’s memorable music make for a rollicking night at the theater.

(Sung in English with English captions.)

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After Hours @ The Speed Speed Art Museum

Sundy Best Country/folk/bluegrass | Mercury Ballroom

Dive into a night of culture celebration for the Grand Opening of India: South Asian Paintings from the San Diego

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Sundy Best is an American country duo formed by Nick Jamerson and Kris Bentley from Prestonsburg, KY.

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Their music is a blend of country, Appalachian folk, bluegrass, rock, soul, and R&B.

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Trey McLaughlin & the Sounds of Zamar Bomhard Theater Trey M. McLaughlin is a passionate vocalist, educator, composer, arranger, and clinician. Known for fusing together an eclectic mix of musical genres, he arranges and performs original works with his own touring and recording ensemble, The Sounds of Zamar, who concluded their first national tour in the 2018-19 season.

17 Louisville Orchestra Star Wars: The Force Awakens Whitney Hall Don’t miss your chance to see your Louisville Orchestra perform the works of Star Wars: The Force Awakens live in concert and featuring a screening of the complete film with a musical score performed live to the film.

stars are in desperate need of a new stage. So when they hear that trouble is brewing around a small-town Indiana prom — and the press is involved — they know that it’s time to put a spotlight on the issue, and themselves. The town’s parents want to keep the dance on the straight and narrow — but when one student just wants to bring her girlfriend to prom, the entire town has a date with destiny. Now, Broadway’s brassiest are coming to join the fight and they are ready to kick-ball-change the world.

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Journey: The Freedom 2024 Tour w. Special Guest TOTO KFC YUM! Center

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Following the success of the 2023 Freedom Tour, legendary rock band Journey has announced a new round of shows for their 50th Anniversary Freedom Tour 2024 featuring very special guest TOTO.

Don’t miss this annual ale fest that rivals the biggest in the country. Over 250 American craft brews, food trucks, a cigar lounge, music and interesting aircraft will be on display at the Bowman Field Airport grounds.

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Joe Bonamassa Blues | Louisville Palace

February 22-March 3 CenterStage presents: The Prom The Shapira Foundation Auditorium Performances are February 22, 24, 25, 29 and March 2, 3. Four fading Broadway

11th Annual Tailspin Ale Festival Bowman Field

MARCH

19 Joe Bonamassa is an American blues rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He started his career at the age of 12 when he opened for B.B. King, and has since released 15 solo albums, out of which 11 have achieved the No. 1 position on the Billboard Blues charts. Don’t miss your chance to see this blues icon in the beautiful Louisville Palace theater.

grown a large fan base and received numerous awards and nominations such as Bluegrass Artist of the Year.

They have made and continue to make their imprint nationwide as they tour and take part in prominent music festivals.

Broadway in Louisville Clue Whitney Hall (8 performances)

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The Magic of Motown Brown Theatre This high-energy homage to the legends of Motown will transport you back in time as you visit the very best of “Hitsville, USA!” The show features a cast of 15 powerhouse vocalists who embody everyone from Diana Ross & The Supremes to Marvin Gaye & The Jackson Five!

Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Col. Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the cult 1985 Paramount movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

2 Mama Said String Band w. The Bibelhauser Brothers Bluegrass | Zanzabar During their time together, Mama Said has become an instant classic, made a notable impact on the Bluegrass State,

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For a full list of performing arts and entertainment events in Louisville, visit our Event Calendar at Audience502.com.

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AUDIENCE APPLAUSE

BEST INSTRUMENTAL SOLO! LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA WINS GRAMMY FOR ‘THE AMERICAN PROJECT’

by Louisville Orchestra

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he Louisville Orchestra, under the baton of Music Director Teddy Abrams, won the award for “Best Classical Instrumental Solo” at the 2024 Grammys on February 4, showcasing their collaboration with worldrenowned pianist Yuja Wang on her album, “The American Project.” This first-ever Grammy win marks a landmark achievement in the orchestra’s illustrious history.

“The American Project” is an ambitious album that combines the rich musical heritage of America with the virtuosic talent of Wang, under the creative guidance of composer and conductor Abrams. This award-winning performance has been praised for its artistic excellence, innovation, and contribution to the classical music landscape.

The piano concerto at the center of the album was written by Abrams for Wang, his Curtis classmate and close friend. Initially intended as a companion piece to Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue,” the work evolved in scope during the composition process to become a masterpiece in its own right. The piano concerto was inspired by multiple musical stylistic sources and offers Wang a singular virtuosic showcase of her unending talents.

ACCOLADES AND CONGRATULATIONS “First, a huge congratulations to the incredible Yuja Wang, who soloed on this extraordinary album and is one of the most talented musicians in the world right now,” Abrams said during

LO Music Director Teddy Abrams at the Grammy Awards on February 4, 2024.

 Yuja Wang. Photo by Ian Douglas.

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PHOTO BY JULIA WESELY

Yuja Wang

Teddy Abrams

I am so proud of everyone at the orchestra, to the people of Louisville and to everybody that made this all happen. Thank you very, very much. − Teddy Abrams

his Grammy acceptance speech. “A giant congratulations to all of my colleagues at the Louisville Orchestra – an orchestra that is famous for its innovation, for putting out so many albums of living composers since it was founded in 1937. I am so proud of everyone at the orchestra, to the people of Louisville and to everybody that made this all happen. Thank you very, very much.”

“We are thrilled to have been a part of the 2024 Grammy Awards, and this win is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and passion of our musicians, staff and board,” said Graham Parker, LO’s Chief Executive. “This accolade is a beacon of artistic achievement and recognition on the global stage. We are immensely proud of Teddy Abrams, Yuja Wang, and everyone involved in making ‘The American Project’ a resounding success.”

LO’s Grammy win not only highlights the exceptional talent within the orchestra but also reinforces its reputation as a leading force in the world of classical music. Starting in the 10

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1940s with its First Edition Records, the Louisville Orchestra is one of the leading commissioners of new orchestral music, with over 500 commissions from such luminaries as Elliot Carter, Chou-Wen Chung, Alberto Ginastera, Witold Lutoslawski, and other 20th century luminaries.

LO’s commitment to innovation, community engagement, and artistic excellence continues to resonate with audiences both locally and internationally.

A milestone in the orchestra’s journey, this Grammy win paves the way for future artistic endeavors and collaborations.

LO extends its heartfelt thanks to its supporters, patrons, and the Louisville community for their unwavering support.

The commission of the piano concerto by Teddy Abrams for Yuja Wang was underwritten by a generous grant from Justus and Elizabeth Schlichting.

For more information about the Grammy, Louisville Orchestra and more, visit LouisvilleOrchestra.org.

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SEASON SNAPSHOT

AN EXTRAORDINARY MUSICAL JOURNEY The Grammy Award Winning Louisville Orchestra Announces 2024-25 Season

by Louisville Orchestra

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he Louisville Orchestra’s (LO) has announced its 2024-25 season — a grand celebration of music that promises to captivate and inspire audiences with a diverse line-up of performances.

showcase the orchestra’s versatility and artistic brilliance.

“Our 2024-25 season is a demonstration of the Louisville Orchestra’s values and unique capabilities,” says Abrams.

“Our programming will showcase the extraordinary musicianship and virtuosity of our musicians in the widest range of repertoire. This breadth of music-making is a core part of our mission; we want to bring the world’s greatest music to Louisville while demonstrating that Louisville has the world’s greatest musical talent at home, too.”

Building on its legacy as a pioneer in the world of contemporary classical music, the orchestra continues to push the boundaries of musical excellence under the dynamic leadership of Music Director Teddy Abrams and Chief Executive Graham Parker.

THE UNIVERSALITY OF MUSIC The upcoming season features an array of performances, each designed to 12

“From ‘Alpine Symphony’ to Michael Tilson Thomas’ ‘Meditations on Rilke,’ from Midori and Ray Chen to world premieres by our very own Creators Corps, we are offering a season of music that will both reflect and strengthen our community,” he adds. “While each program in our season explores powerful and profound narratives and subtexts, every concert will be a celebration of our orchestra, of Louisville, and or the universality of music itself.”

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CLASSICS SERIES Under Abrams’ visionary leadership, this year's Classics lineup features major works, including Holst's “The Planets” as season opener, “Carmina Burana” with a mega choir, “Der Kaiser Von Atlantis,” and “An Alpine Symphony.”

This year will also feature some of the most beloved concertos brought to life by world-famous guest artists Ray Chen, Midori, and Louis Lortie. The season will conclude with the second annual Creators Fest, featuring world premiers

by LO’s Creators Corps composers Baldwin Giang, Brittany Green, and Oswald Huynh.

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COFFEE SERIES LO’s Coffee Series offers the magnificence of the Classics Series in a daytime setting, complete with free coffee. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the same great music in a more casual atmosphere.

NIGHTLITES SERIES The NightLites Series at the Ogle Center at Indiana University Southeast features four spectacular events: Star Trek: A Musical Voyage Through The Stars, a symphonic journey to the stars; Handel's Messiah, a timeless choral masterpiece; Time For Three, where classical meets modern in a unique string performance; and Stravinsky's Firebird, a captivating ballet score. This series blends music, culture, and innovation, offering something special for every audience

orchestral accompaniment. Back by popular demand, Nosferatu, featuring the LO’s new original score, and the whimsical enchanting The Nightmare Before Christmas. Plus, the adventurous and iconic Raiders of the Lost Ark, and the final two movies of the boy wizard saga, Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part 1 and Part 2 “As we announce the Louisville Orchestra's new season, we reaffirm our pledge to be a vital and vibrant part of Louisville’s cultural tapestry," says Parker. "Our orchestra is a place where music meets passion, where tradition meets innovation, and where every concert is an opportunity to inspire and be inspired. We invite you to join us on this extraordinary musical journey.”

“Subscribing to the Louisville Orchestra’s new season means more than just securing the best seats for spectacular performances,” he adds.

“It is a commitment to preserving and advancing the arts in Louisville. In renewing your subscription, you join LO in a powerful statement: that music is essential, that culture matters, and that together, we can keep the arts thriving in our community.”

Season subscription packages for the Classics, Classics Mini A & B, Coffee, NightLites, Pops, and Film series are now available at LouisvilleOrchestra.org.

Single tickets will go on sale later this year.

LOUISVILLE ORCHESTRA 2024-25 SEASON SNAPSHOT The Planets | Sep 14, 2024, 7:30PM, Louisville Palace Carmina Burana | Oct 19, 2024, 7:30PM, Whitney Hall (Un)Silent Film: Nosferatu | Oct 23, 2024, 7:30PM, Whitney Hall Star Trek: Musical Voyage Through The Stars | Oct 25, 2024, 7:30PM, Ogle Center, IUS Star Trek: Musical Voyage Through The Stars | Oct 26, 2024, 7:30PM, Whitney Hall Rick Steves' Europe | Nov 9, 2024, 7:30PM, Whitney Hall Ray Chen Plays Barber | Nov 15, 2024, 11:00AM, Whitney Hall Ray Chen Plays Barber | Nov 16, 2024, 7:30PM, Whitney Hall A Nightmare Before Christmas | Nov 23, 2024, 7:30PM, Louisville Palace Handel's Messiah | Dec 6, 2024, 7:30PM, Ogle Center at IUS Holiday Pops | Dec 14, 2024, 7:30PM, Louisville Palace Midori and An Alpine Symphony | Jan 17, 2025, 11:00AM, Whitney Hall Midori and An Alpine Symphony | Jan 18, 2025, 7:30PM, Whitney Hall Teddy Conducts Der Kaiser Von Atlantis | Jan 25, 2025, 7:30PM, Whitney Hall Time For Three | Feb 7, 2025, 7:30PM, Ogle Center at IUS

POPS SERIES The LO’s Pops series, led by Maestro Bob Bernhardt, promises an eclectic mix of nostalgia and innovation. From Rick Steves' Europe, where the celebrated travel expert Rick Steves himself will take you on an auditory and visual tour of Europe through music and storytelling to tribute nights dedicated to the ’80s and ’90s featuring vocal talents from O-Town, NSYNC, and 98 Degrees

Ravel's Romantic Reverie | Feb 14, 2025, 11:00AM, Whitney Hall Ravel's Romantic Reverie | Feb 15, 2025, 7:30PM, Whitney Hall Raiders of the Lost Ark | Feb 19, 2025, 7:30PM, Louisville Palace Decades Back to the 80s | Feb 22, 2025, 7:30PM, Louisville Palace Stravinsky's Firebird | Mar 7, 2025, 11:00AM, Whitney Hall Stravinsky's Firebird | Mar 7, 2025, 7:30PM, Ogle Center at IUS Stravinsky's Firebird | Mar 8, 2025, 7:30PM, Whitney Hall A Night of Symphonic Boy Bands | Mar 22, 2025, 7:30PM, Whitney Hall Harry Potter The Deathly Hallows - Part 1 | Apr 9, 2025, 7:30PM, Louisville Palace Harry Potter The Deathly Hallows - Part 2 | Apr 11, 2025, 7:30PM, Louisville Palace

FILM SERIES

Creators Fest | May 9, 2025, 11:00AM, Whitney Hall

Film enthusiasts are invited to enjoy screenings of timeless classics with live

Creators Fest | May 10, 2025, 7:30PM, Whitney Hall

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South �sian Paintings from the San Diego Museum of �rt FebruaryTickets 16 –atMay 12, 2024 speedmuseum.org

Replete with over 80 jewel-like painted portraits and manuscript illuminations reflecting the rich and diverse artistic traditions of South Asia from the 16th–19th centuries, this presentation promises to dazzle visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

This pair of themed exhibitions – The Throne, The Chase, and The Heart and Elephant in the Room – presents a rare opportunity to showcase some of the very best examples of South Asian painting to be seen outside of India and Pakistan.

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Organized By

Detail: Two lovers sharing a drink Rajasthan, Jaipur, ca. 1780 Ink, opaque watercolor,

Exhibition Support By

and gold on paper

Rose Mary Toebbe Trust

8 21/32 x 7 9/32 in.

Rishabh and Lopa Mehrotra

(22 x 18.5 cm) The San Diego Museum of Art,

Media Sponsor

Edwin Binney 3rd Collection, 1990.861

Exhibition Season Support By Cary Brown and Steven E. Epstein Debra and Ronald Murphy Sociable Weaver Foundation

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Tickets at speedmuseum.org F R E E !

EVENTS WE LOVE

PARTY FOR A CAUSE

Kentucky Shakespeare to Announce 2024 Season at Gala Fundraiser

SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE GALA Saturday, February 10, 2024 21c Museum Hotel 7-11 PM

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he team at Kentucky Shakespeare is gearing up for a big night of fun with the ninth annual Shakespeare in Love Gala that is sure to be an evening you won’t want to miss.

“We are excited for the gala as it serves as a fundraiser as well as a party,” says Producing Artistic Director, Matt Wallace. “We will also announce our 2024 Shakespeare Festival in Central Park lineup, spend time with our amazing staff, raffle various gift baskets and have some great silent auction items, including a Chef’s Table dinner experience for eight with Chef Todd Alexander and a Churchill Downs Finish Line Suite. There will be opportunities to donate to Kentucky Shakespeare at the event, and people

can also always support with taxdeductible donations online at kyshakespeare.com/donate and with Venmo @KYShakes. Funds raised go to support our many programs from free Shakespeare in the Parks to education tours and community outreach.”

The gala is being hosted at the magnificent 21c Museum Hotel, a unique and soughtafter event space.

“I love that this event doesn’t feel like a typical ‘stuffy gala,’ — it’s fun and easy and just a great party,” adds Wallace.

“With the Jerry Tolson Jazz Trio kicking off the first part of the evening, we’ll have appetizers from Proof and BrownForman cocktails, while guests experience the stunning art in the various galleries K E N T U C K Y

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at 21c, visit with strolling entertainers, poetry buskers from Sarabande Books, and even our very popular couples (or singles) tarot card reader, Regan Wann.”

The summer season announcement will also take place at the gala, with a reveal of the cast and summer shows, accompanied with some live performances.

The second part of the event is a dance party. Guests can purchase the new “dancing and drinks only” ticket for $50 and attend from 9 to 11 PM. There are several ticket options to accommodate groups, couples or solos ranging from $50 to $125.

For tickets and more information, visit KYShakespeare.com/gala.

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CHECK THIS OUT!

LOUISVILLE'S BOURBON PIONEER Evan Williams Bourbon Experience

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entucky’s $9 billion bourbon industry is booming and doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. There are currently more barrels being aged than there are residents in the state. The bourbon boom has given us the luxury of having the best bourbons in the world at our fingertips, and the ancillary impact from the industry has contributed in a big way to tourism — making Kentucky the “Napa Valley of bourbon.”

through the working distillery, explaining the various stages of production of bourbon — from the grains used to fermentation to the maturation in the charred-white oak barrels and rick houses spread around the commonwealth.

bourbon was made and meet the people who were making it, and EWBE would fulfill those desires.

The first distillery on Whiskey Row to offer this type of experience was the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience (EWBE) located on Main Street across from The Kentucky Center.

His words proved to be accurate, and today the booming attraction offers guests the chance to experience an on-site artisanal distillery tour like no other. Celebrating 10 years and almost 1 million visitors, the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience offers guests a glimpse of Louisville’s history and how bourbon was made then, how it is made now, and the magnitude and impact it has had not only in Kentucky, but worldwide.

Heaven Hill Executive Chairman Max Shapira said at the distillery’s opening that after a three-decade slump, bourbon was not only back, but it would become bigger than ever. He knew that bourbon connoisseurs wanted to learn how

The tour begins with an overview about Evan Williams himself and his significant role in Louisville history, then there is a short video presentation of what those days were like for the industry. After the film, the tour guide leads the group

While there is something special about spending a day exploring the distilleries peppered from Bardstown to Frankfort, the popularity of in-town distillery tours continues to grow.

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The tour ends in a tasting room, where guests can enjoy four samples of various Evan Williams products and an explanation of each. A recent tour offered samples of Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch, Evan Williams Bottled-In-Bond, Square 6 (distilled on site and named for the location of the first commercial distillery in Kentucky, and can only be purchased at the gift shop) and the coveted Evan Williams 12-year-old that can also be purchased in the gift shop with a tour ticket.

The entire tour only takes about an hour, from check-in to tasting, leaving plenty of time to enjoy other Louisville attractions.

Overall, the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience is a great way to learn about the history of Kentucky bourbon for locals and tourists alike. And for just $18, it is a bargain you shouldn’t pass up.

For more information, visit EvanWilliams. com/plan-your-trip or call 502.272.2623.

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100 YEARS

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KENTUCKY STATE PARKS all 2024!

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Natural Bridge State Resort Park

DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT

WINTER ACTIVITIES AT

KENTUCKY STATE PARKS

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hile many animals settle down to hibernate for the winter, this time of year means plenty of activities at Kentucky State Parks, from hiking to birding to special events and more.

At Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, winter is an excellent time for elk tours. Since elk were reintroduced to Kentucky in 1997, the elk population has increased significantly, with an estimated population of 11,000 to 12,000. Viewing the animals in the wild is an incredible experience worth waking up early for. Elk tours fill up quickly, and reservations can be made by calling (606) 889-1790. Special packages are available.

Winter provides fantastic birding opportunities as well. At John James Audubon State Resort Park, you may see seven woodpecker species, buteos, and owls. Go on a self-guided birdwatching hike at Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, where nesting pairs of American bald eagles can be viewed.

Over 150 species of birds call the Kenlake State Resort Park area home, including herons, egrets, and gulls. Hood’s Branch Trail and Rock Garden Trail are prime birdwatching spots at Natural Bridge State Resort Park, where you may glimpse kinglets, goldfinches, and wild turkeys.

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park

In the summer, cave tours can book up quickly, making the winter months a smart time to visit. At Carter Caves State Resort Park, you can take a tour through X-Cave, which has two vertical joint passages, or Cascade Cave, the longest scenic cave tour. Carter Caves also hosts selfexploration at Horn Hollow Cave this time of year, along with special caving events.

For more information, call (606) 286-4411.

At Dale Hollow State Resort Park, you can explore Cindy Cave with a guided wild cave tour. Small tours for groups of three or more guests can be specially arranged by calling (270) 433-7431.

State Resort Park is hosting a Sweetheart Weekend on Feb. 10 and 11. Dinner will be accompanied by live music, and guests are encouraged to dress up as famous romantic couples from history for a chance at winning a prize.

As Valentine’s Day swiftly approaches, check out a romantic option to celebrate with your sweetheart: Rough River Dam

For additional information and other events, check the Parks calendar at parks.ky.gov/events.

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In addition to regularly scheduled happenings, Kentucky State Parks is planning special events in commemoration of its 100th anniversary celebration. Stay tuned for more details at Parks.ky.gov, where you can make plans to visit Kentucky’s 44 state parks, including 17 resort parks with restaurants, 30 campgrounds, and 13 golf courses.

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EVENTS WE LOVE

FESTIVAL FEVER

Bourbon & Beyond Announces All-Star Line-up 2024

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oming off the heels of a hugely successful 2023 festival headlined by the biggest names in the music industry, Bourbon & Beyond is preparing for its biggest year ever at the Highland Festival Grounds September 19 to 22, 2024. The festival recently released another all-star line-up featuring headliners Zach Bryan, Tyler Childers, Dave Matthews Band and more.

What has become considered the world’s largest bourbon and music festival, the team at Danny Wimmer Presents continues to elevate the festival experience for Louisvillians and tourists alike.

Now in its sixth year, the four-day destination event is adding two music stages and 40 additional music artists for 2024, expanding to a total of five music stages and 100 music artists, plus the festival’s culinary and bourbon workshop stages.

This year’s line-up is stacked, featuring dozens of legends and breakout stars including headliners Neil Young and Beck on Thursday, Dave Matthews Band and Tedeschi Trucks Band on Friday, Zach Bryan and Cody Jinks on Saturday, and Tyler Childers and My Morning Jacket on Sunday, along with Matchbox Twenty, The National, Whiskey Myers, Black Pumas, The War On Drugs, The Beach Boys, Mt. Joy, Fleet Foxes, Young the Giant, Maren Morris, The Head and the Heart, Melissa Etheridge, Teddy Swims, and many more.

“To have one of the most influential artists of all time, Neil Young, headline Bourbon & Beyond this year is so incredibly special. Not only do I love his music, but I think there is a real authenticity in his craft that has inspired generations of artists to find their true voice,” says Danny Wimmer. “To have 20

such a timeless artist share the stage with some of today’s best storytellers and craftsmen is something truly exceptional. Plus, being able to celebrate hometown heroes, My Morning Jacket and Kentucky’s own, Tyler Childers, this year's Bourbon & Beyond lineup is truly a career highlight for me. We can’t wait to see everyone this September to celebrate the pure magic of this festival and the great city of Louisville.”

In addition to four full days of music on five stages, the festival experience will include daily workshops and demonstrations hosted by Chris Blandford, Amanda Freitag, Ed Lee, and Chris Santos — pairing world-renowned master distillers and celebrity chefs with guest artist appearances and a who’s who of Kentucky personalities — as well as a variety of additional onsite experiences.

Featuring the best bluegrass bands, line dancing and expertly curated picks of Kentucky’s finest, the bourbon trail is coming to Louisville. A highlight of the festival will be spending time in the Kroger Big Bourbon Bar. Bourbon lovers can also stop by Chris Picks MiniBar for select single barrels curated especially for Bourbon & Beyond; The Hunter’s Club for rare and vintage sips; and the Tiki Barrel Bar for the perfect oasis to make the festival vacation complete.

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Fans can enjoy other cocktail offerings at Blackened Presents, The Whiskey Bar. In addition, music lovers and musicians can spend time at The Music Experience powered by American Musical Supply, featuring music gear to play, giveaways, special deals, selfie stations, guitar and drum contests, and more.

Attendees can also enjoy a variety of onsite food and beverage offerings inspired by Kentucky’s explosion in the culinary world. Selections from local and regional restaurants are specially curated

by Southern Hospitality Concessions LLC. Bourbon & Beyond and Danny Wimmer Presents’ companion festival, Louder Than Life, which takes place the following weekend, generated millions in local economic impact in 2023 and drew more than 300,000 attendees booking over 60,000 hotel room nights and creating a visitor boom at local restaurants and other businesses, including bourbon distilleries along the Urban Bourbon Trail.

Bourbon & Beyond has been nominated

by Pollstar as the 2024 Global Festival of the Year.

Tickets for the 2024 event, as well as hotel, camping and parking information can be found at BourbonandBeyond.com.

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LOUISVILLE LANDMARKS

LOUISVILLE: THEN & NOW Main Street, between Second and Third, 1937 vs. 2024

We are excited to partner with the University of Louisville Archives and Special Collections department to bring you snapshots of Louisville’s past and present. Be sure to find them on Facebook for more great historic photos and descriptions!

These photos are of Main Street between Second and Third streets, comparing 1937 with today.

In the post-Civil War era, the Louisville Board of Trade coined the motto, "Louisville: The Gateway to the South," to promote the flow of Louisville's manufactured goods to southern states via the Louisville & Nashville Railroad.

This motto appeared in lights atop the Kentucky Electric Co.’s riverfront generating station after that company merged with three other local utilities in 1913 to form Louisville Gas & Electric Co. The sign, photographed here in 1937, welcomed arrivals to Louisville until blackouts were imposed during World War II. The LG&E building was still standing (minus its massive smokestacks) until 2006, when construction for the new University of Louisville indoor basketball arena broke ground. The KFC YUM! Center was finished in 2010 and serves as the home base for UofL men's and women's basketball teams, and has attracted many incredible performers.  Above: 1937: Waterside station, Louisville, Kentucky. ULPA Caufield & Shook Collection. Below: iPhone photo, 2024. Caption in part by James E. Manasco with assistance from Archives & Special Collections for Louisville: Then and Now.

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The KY Lottery has raised over $4 BILLION

for college scholarships and grants.

To learn more visit: KYLottery.com