Calendar of Events
Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.
Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.
Step into the enigmatic world of “Til Death Do We Part” – an enthralling Interactive Murder Mystery Dinner, presented by SKYLARANNA in collaboration with JJ Brown Productions
Whether you yearn for an unforgettable evening of dinner alone or desire the full immersive experience, including an overnight stay, the choice is yours to make.
Price: From $349 to $449 Per Couple (Excludes tax and gratuity)
For any inquiries, call (828) 919 – 7777
TIL DEATH DO WE PART Valentine Weekend Package:
Continental Breakfast
Lodging for 2 guests
Cocktail Reception
Five-Course Dinner
Interactive Murder Mystery Show
Bonfire and S’mores Kit
Date: February 17 – February 18, 2024
SKYLARANNA Resort and SPA
February 17 – Hotel check-in @3pm, Cocktail Reception @5pm, Dinner + Show @6pm, Bonfire @9pm.
February 18 – Breakfast between 9am-11am, Hotel check-out @11am.
Reserve your spot now for a weekend that will linger in your memory!
Act fast, as our exclusive packages are selling out quickly!
Secure your spot now before it’s too late!
What happens when Washington, D.C.’s premiere, political satire group – The Capitol Steps – call it quits after nearly 40 years? Most folks would agree that it was a great run, and the story would end there.
But an intrepid group of cast members and a co-writer would not go quietly into that good night. This band of fools reflected on a world without musical, political satire, and didn’t like what they saw. And just like that The Capitol Fools were born.
While foolish enough to embark on this new journey, they were smart enough to not reinvent the wheel. Fast-paced, laugh out loud show…check. Equal opportunity offenders…check. Skewering both sides of the aisle…check. If a “Steps-style show” is wrong, they don’t want to be right.
The Capitol Fools hold up a mirror to our crazy political culture, providing hilarious song parodies and foolish reflections that continue to inspire belly-laughter. Audiences will continue to see cast members from past seasons of the Capitol Steps performing all the beloved bits, the mind-boggling backward talking spoonerisms, break-neck costume changes, over-the-top impressions, and all-new song parodies reflecting the day’s news. They will give you a memory that will last a lunch time. The spirit, irreverence and D.N.A. of The Capitol Steps lives on with The Capitol Fools!
By Bob Larbey
Directed by Mark Colbenson
Feichter Studio
Step into the world of Cooper and Aylott, residents of “Paradise House” retirement home, as they plot their escape and navigate the rocky road of aging with humor, grace, and… trepidation. Watch as Cooper charmingly flirts with his nurse, engages in witty banter with the cleaning lady, and attempts to bridge the gap with his somewhat estranged daughter. Don’t miss out on this uplifting winter production—it’s a celebration of life, love, and the enduring spirit that connects us all.
Rated PG-13

Flyin’ West is a compelling, crowd-pleasing drama by esteemed playwright Pearl Cleage. Set in the 1890s, the story unfolds in the historic town of Nicodemus, Kansas, one of the many all-black towns established in the American West following the Civil War. Through the eyes of four African-American women, the play delves into their journey of resilience and aspiration as they navigate their lives against the backdrop of the harsh realities of the frontier and the societal constraints of the era. With themes of community, racial pride, and female empowerment, Flyin’ West is a powerful portrayal of the determination and grit of black pioneers, offering audiences a captivating glimpse into an often overlooked chapter of American history.
A talkback with the cast & crew of Flyin’ West will be held following the performances on February 11th and 18th.
In the tradition of The Vagina Monologues and For Colored Girls…, The Glorious World of Crowns, Kinks, and Curls is a collection of monologues and scenes exploring the often complex relationship Black women have with their hair. From Afros to braids, weddings, and funerals, falling in love to grieving a loss, these stories serve as a powerful reminder that for Black women in particular, hair is both deeply personal and political. These heartbreaking, heartwarming, and hilarious stories will take audiences on an unparalleled journey into the world of Black womanhood.
Purchase the Different Strokes! 23-24 Season 4 Production Package! Buy two tickets to each production and get two additional half-price tickets to every show in your package. Purchase your 4 Production Package through the link below and then call the box office at 828-257-4530, ext 1, to purchase your half price tickets.
Dads, Moms, Grandparents, Cousins, Aunts, Uncles, Siblings of all ages are invited to participate in this family theatre camp style production! There are roles for kids, teenagers and adults of all ages. Current, past, and new Playground Stage Families are invited to join!
Show Title: To be revealed at the 5 Year Birthday Celebration!
Dates and Times
Info Sessions & Auditions:
(Participants must choose one date to attend an info session) (Speaking role auditions are optional)
June 12, 2024 – Summer Family Musical Info Session & Speaking Role Auditions
or
June 19, 2024 – Summer Family Musical Info Session & Speaking Role Auditions
Rehearsals:
Evenings July 22nd – August 2nd
Located at Avery’s Creek Community Center
899 Glenn Bridge Rd SE, Arden, NC
Evenings August 5th-8th
Located at Asheville High School Theatre
Performances: August 9th & 10th
Asheville High School Theatre
Optional music learning rehearsals will take place every Wednesday from 6:00-7:30pm throughout the summer starting June 26th 2024
-SEATED SHOW
-LIMITED VIP TICKETS AVAILABLE
Welcome to the most dazzling brunch experience in Asheville! Join award-winning burlesque sensation, Madison Jane and a delectable blend of performers once a month for a Sunday extravaganza of tantalizing tastes and titillating performances. The Haus of Jane’s Burlesque Brunch Showcase is a feast for the senses, where laughter and allure collide, creating a brunch event that’s as unforgettable as the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Please note: While the ticket price covers your entrance into this delicious spectacle, our brunch delights are a separate indulgence. Come hungry for glamour and ready to sip, savor, and be seduced by the artistry of burlesque – where every shimmy tells a story, and every wink is an invitation to revel in the magic. Bring cash to tip your performers and prepare for a Sunday like no other!
By Bob Larbey
Directed by Mark Colbenson
Feichter Studio
Step into the world of Cooper and Aylott, residents of “Paradise House” retirement home, as they plot their escape and navigate the rocky road of aging with humor, grace, and… trepidation. Watch as Cooper charmingly flirts with his nurse, engages in witty banter with the cleaning lady, and attempts to bridge the gap with his somewhat estranged daughter. Don’t miss out on this uplifting winter production—it’s a celebration of life, love, and the enduring spirit that connects us all.
Rated PG-13

Flyin’ West is a compelling, crowd-pleasing drama by esteemed playwright Pearl Cleage. Set in the 1890s, the story unfolds in the historic town of Nicodemus, Kansas, one of the many all-black towns established in the American West following the Civil War. Through the eyes of four African-American women, the play delves into their journey of resilience and aspiration as they navigate their lives against the backdrop of the harsh realities of the frontier and the societal constraints of the era. With themes of community, racial pride, and female empowerment, Flyin’ West is a powerful portrayal of the determination and grit of black pioneers, offering audiences a captivating glimpse into an often overlooked chapter of American history.
A talkback with the cast & crew of Flyin’ West will be held following the performances on February 11th and 18th.

Wilde’s most successful and enduring play is a wonderful and witty comedy of deception, disguise and misadventure. Two bachelors, Jack and Algernon, create alter egos in an effort to avoid tedious social obligations and win the hearts of Gwendolen and Cecily, the two women they adore.
Tanglewood Summer has long been a successful and inspirational part of children’s creative education in Western North Carolina. Our theatre camp has been extremely popular and is well-suited for any young person interested in exploring the exciting world of theatre. Our faculty represents some of the finest talent in the area, and we are thrilled to have them at Tanglewood Summer.
We have something for every kid this summer – whether it’s your first or one-hundred-and-first time trying theatre, Tanglewood Summer is the place for YOU!
Spring Musical
Finding Nemo KIDS
2nd-4th Grades
Mondays
2:30pm-4:00pm
2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26, 3/4, 3/11, 3/18, 3/25, 4/8, 4/15, 4/22, 4/29
*No Class 4/1/2024
Dress Rehearsal: 4/22 2:30-4:00pm
Performance: 4/29/2024 3:30pm
Tuition: $270
Students will learn all about teamwork as they work together with their classmates and a professional Teaching Artist to perform scenes and songs from a short musical. Each actor will receive their own part with lines and songs to learn. Class time will be used for rehearsal and a performance complete with costumes and props will take place on the final class day.
In Person at Weaverville Elementary School
129 S Main St, Weaverville, NC 28787

Come join us for our production classes. We take a limited number of actors in each show, and make sure that each actor, whether a lead or ensemble member, is featured in a way that makes them shine. We pride ourselves on our great ensemble work and have been nationally recognized for our commitment to making sure the entire cast works together to bring these stories to life.
- Cost: $450 for Legally Blonde
- Tuition includes: all rehearsal and performance materials.
- Families are required to provide a base costume consisting of: solid black tank-top, solid black t-shirt, solid black long-sleeved shirt, and solid bottoms (pants, leggings, shorts, or skirt). Families are also required to provide any dance shoes that are required for the role.
Grades: 6th-12th
Rehearsals: Mondays, 6:00pm-8:00pm
Rehearsals Start: February 19, 2024
Tech Week: May 28-30, 2024
Shows: May 31 – June 2, 2024
Tanglewood Summer has long been a successful and inspirational part of children’s creative education in Western North Carolina. Our theatre camp has been extremely popular and is well-suited for any young person interested in exploring the exciting world of theatre. Our faculty represents some of the finest talent in the area, and we are thrilled to have them at Tanglewood Summer.
We have something for every kid this summer – whether it’s your first or one-hundred-and-first time trying theatre, Tanglewood Summer is the place for YOU!
Dads, Moms, Grandparents, Cousins, Aunts, Uncles, Siblings of all ages are invited to participate in this family theatre camp style production! There are roles for kids, teenagers and adults of all ages. Current, past, and new Playground Stage Families are invited to join!
Show Title: To be revealed at the 5 Year Birthday Celebration!
Dates and Times
Info Sessions & Auditions:
(Participants must choose one date to attend an info session) (Speaking role auditions are optional)
June 12, 2024 – Summer Family Musical Info Session & Speaking Role Auditions
or
June 19, 2024 – Summer Family Musical Info Session & Speaking Role Auditions
Rehearsals:
Evenings July 22nd – August 2nd
Located at Avery’s Creek Community Center
899 Glenn Bridge Rd SE, Arden, NC
Evenings August 5th-8th
Located at Asheville High School Theatre
Performances: August 9th & 10th
Asheville High School Theatre
Optional music learning rehearsals will take place every Wednesday from 6:00-7:30pm throughout the summer starting June 26th 2024
Spring Musical
Finding Nemo KIDS
2nd-4thGrades
Tuesdays
2:30pm-4:00pm
2/6, 2/13, 2/20. 2/27, 3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26, 4/9, 4/16, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14
No Class: 4/2 Spring Break, 4/23 Early Release
Dress Rehearsal: 5/7 2:30-4:00pm
Performance: 5/14/2024 3:30pm
Tuition: $300
Students will learn all about teamwork as they work together with their classmates and a professional Teaching Artist to perform scenes and songs from a short musical. Each actor will receive their own part with lines and songs to learn. Class time will be used for rehearsal and a performance complete with costumes and props will take place on the final class day.
In Person at Glen Arden Elementary School
50 Pinehurst Cir, Arden, NC 28704
Asheville Community Talent Showcase
March 10, 2024
Sunday at 7:30 PM
NOW ACCEPTING SUBMISSIONS
ABOUT
ACT is excited to present the 2024 Asheville Community Talent Showcase, a vibrant celebration of the rich talent from communities across Western North Carolina. Join us as we spotlight the diverse and extraordinary skills of our community members, showcasing the best of our region’s performers on stage.
PRIZES & AWARDS
- One grand prize winner will take home $500!
- Additional Awards & Prizes (TBA)
PARTICIPATION
- Asheville Community Talent Showcase auditions are open to acts of all ages and levels of experience.
- Bring your best skills – singing, instrumentation, plate-spinning, singing, acrobatics, dancing, juggling, baton twirling – the possibilities are endless!
- Each act should be 3 minutes or less.
- Each act should be performance ready at the time of Auditions.
- Acts may audition in person or send in a video submission by February 20, 2024 at 6:00 PM.
- If chosen to participate in the Showcase, acts may be asked to work with a director to elevate their piece.
- There is a $20 suggested donation per act to help cover the costs of administration. This is not a required cost, if it is a barrier to participate.
IMPORTANT DATES
- Auditions: February 20, 2024 – 6:00-9:00 PM
- Mandatory Rehearsal: March 9, 2024 – 1:00-4:00 PM
- Performance: March 10, 2024 – Call Time 5:00 PM, Show Time 7:30 PM
Proceeds from the Asheville Community Talent Showcase support the Tanglewood Teens Senior Scholarship Fund. Tanglewood Teens is ACT’s audition-based performance troupe that provides a unique platform for high schoolers to receive top-level training in acting, singing, dancing, and the performing arts. This inclusive program is designed to develop artistic abilities as well as foster teamwork, discipline, and confidence.
Tanglewood Summer has long been a successful and inspirational part of children’s creative education in Western North Carolina. Our theatre camp has been extremely popular and is well-suited for any young person interested in exploring the exciting world of theatre. Our faculty represents some of the finest talent in the area, and we are thrilled to have them at Tanglewood Summer.
We have something for every kid this summer – whether it’s your first or one-hundred-and-first time trying theatre, Tanglewood Summer is the place for YOU!
Students will learn all about teamwork as they work together with their classmates and a professional Teaching Artist to perform scenes and songs from a short musical. Each actor will receive their own part with lines and songs to learn. Class time will be used for rehearsal and a performance complete with costumes and props will take place on the final class day.
Wednesdays
4:30-5:30pm
2/7, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28,
3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27,
4/10, 4/17, 4/24,
5/1, 5/8
**No Class 4/3/2024
Dress Rehearsal: 5/1 5:45-7:15pm (Combined with older class)
Performance: 5/8/2024 6:30pm
Tuition: $250
Students will learn all about teamwork as they work together with their classmates and a professional Teaching Artist to perform scenes and songs from a short musical. Each actor will receive their own part with lines and songs to learn. Class time will be used for rehearsal and a performance complete with costumes and props will take place on the final class day.
Spring Musical 2024 3rd-6th Grades
Finding Nemo KIDS
Wednesdays
5:45-7:15pm
2/7, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28,
3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27,
4/10, 4/17, 4/24,
5/1, 5/8
**No Class 4/3/204
Dress Rehearsal: 5/1 5:45-7:15pm (Combined with younger class)
Performance: 5/8/2024 6:30pm
Tuition: $325
Introducing ?They Said What? ©: A Monthly Game Show Extravaganza Hosted by one of Asheville’s favorites, Zakiya Bell-Rogers
Get ready to experience an evening of laughter, surprises, and entertainment as we proudly introduce ?They Said What? – an innovative monthly game show that combines the best elements of Family Feud™, Jeopardy™, and Let’s Make a Deal™ into a one-of-a-kind, thrilling experience. Hosted by the charismatic Zakiya Bell-Rogers, this game show promises to be an unforgettable event filled with fun, competition, and goodwill.
?They Said What? premieres on January 17th at 6:00 PM at Highland Brewing Company, where a room full of performers and the folks who love them will come together for an evening of interactive entertainment. With Zakiya Bell-Rogers leading the way, there’s no telling what surprises and witty remarks await the audience. This unique fusion of game show format will keep everyone on the edge of their seats and bursting with laughter.
What sets ?They Said What? apart is its philanthropic mission. Each month, the winning organization will receive winnings equal to half the door (ticket sales), providing crucial support for their cause. Additionally, the victorious organization will have the opportunity to return the following month to defend their title and compete for even more winnings. How much they win depends on you! It’s an opportunity for charitable organizations to engage with each other and the community while having a blast.
But the excitement doesn’t end there! Two lucky audience members will also have the chance to win their own prizes, adding an extra layer of excitement and engagement to the event.
Tickets for the first round of ?They Said What? are now on sale and can be purchased through our website or at the venue. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this entertaining and impactful event.
Still have no idea what’s going on? If you’re looking for a fun night, you’ll just have to trust us! Come on, break up the winter doldrums and get your tickets today, by clicking below.
16-time Grammy® award-winning musician, composer, and producer DAVID
FOSTER and acclaimed singer, television, and Broadway star, KATHARINE
MCPHEE are bringing their viral Instagram show on the road.
Coming directly from the Living Room to the stage, this intimate show with
the powerhouse duo will be packed with David‘s hits from Chicago,
Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Josh Groban, Michael Bublé, etc. and Kat’s
biggest songs from American Idol, Smash, and Waitress. Plus some of their
favorites that they just love!
About David Foster
Few other individuals can claim to have their fingerprints on more major moments in all of popular music than David Foster. He has created hit songs for a diverse array of artists including Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Andrea Bocelli, Michael Bublé, Josh Groban, Rod Stewart, Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind & Fire, Diana Krall, Natalie Cole, Michael Bolton, Seal, Chaka Khan, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Chicago, Hall & Oates, Brandy, ’N Sync, Boz Scaggs, and Gloria Estefan.
Foster is gearing up to take on Broadway with several projects including writing the music for a new musical about the iconic animated character “Betty Boop.” He is also writing the music for a musical based on the Amy Bloom novel and New York Times bestseller Lucky Us.
About Katharine McPhee
Katharine McPhee can most recently be seen starring in the Netflix Original Series Country Comfort. Previously she starred as “Paige Dineen” on the CBS’ spy drama Scorpion and was featured in NBC’s award-winning musical series Smash, executive produced by Steven Spielberg. Her other television credits include CSI: NY, Community, and Family Guy.
McPhee appeared on the big screen in Columbia’s romantic comedy The House Bunny. In addition to her acting career, she finds great success in the music space after her turn on Season 5 of American Idol. McPhee’s first single debuted at #2 on the Billboard’s Hot Singles Sales chart. Her debut album landed on the Billboard 200 chart and went gold in 2008.
McPhee also has a presence in theater, having recently starred in both the U.S. and U.K. productions of Waitress.
Dads, Moms, Grandparents, Cousins, Aunts, Uncles, Siblings of all ages are invited to participate in this family theatre camp style production! There are roles for kids, teenagers and adults of all ages. Current, past, and new Playground Stage Families are invited to join!
Show Title: To be revealed at the 5 Year Birthday Celebration!
Dates and Times
Info Sessions & Auditions:
(Participants must choose one date to attend an info session) (Speaking role auditions are optional)
June 12, 2024 – Summer Family Musical Info Session & Speaking Role Auditions
or
June 19, 2024 – Summer Family Musical Info Session & Speaking Role Auditions
Rehearsals:
Evenings July 22nd – August 2nd
Located at Avery’s Creek Community Center
899 Glenn Bridge Rd SE, Arden, NC
Evenings August 5th-8th
Located at Asheville High School Theatre
Performances: August 9th & 10th
Asheville High School Theatre
Optional music learning rehearsals will take place every Wednesday from 6:00-7:30pm throughout the summer starting June 26th 2024
DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID JR
Grades: 1st-12th
Auditions: February 15 from 4:30pm-6:00pm
*All students will receive a role and be cast in Cast A or Cast B
Rehearsals: Thursdays, 3:30pm-6:00pm
*Exact Rehearsal times will be determined after casting
Rehearsals Start: February 22, 2024
Shows: May 17-19, 2024 (Tech May 13-16, 2024) – each cast will have 2 performances
It’s February, which means ‘the boys are back!’ From the same outstanding musical talent who brought you the Music of Queen, the Eagles, and the Beatles, welcome to Mixtape! The Best of the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s. Come shake off the winter blues with this red-hot rockin’ playlist featuring tunes you know and love. It’ll be ‘a gas,’ ‘far out,’ and ‘totally tubular!’
Standup Comedy featuring Ryan Gordon at The Orange Peel’s Pulp Lounge
When: Thursday February 22, 2024.
7p-9p, doors at 6:30p
Where:
The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement, Pulp Lounge, 103 Hilliard Ave, Downtown Asheville
Tickets: $15 (available at door or The Orange Peel website)
Cocktails available while you laugh the night away to some of the area’s best Stand Up Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!! Free snacks while availability lasts!
Hosted by Hilliary Begley, featuring Ryan Gordon
Comedy open mic is 3-5m each, comics get in free with free snacks!
FB: https://fb.me/e/4Qdi8lxKy
Standup Comedy featuring Ryan Gordon at The Orange Peel’s Pulp Lounge
When: Thursday February 22, 2024.
7p-9p, doors at 6:30p
Where:
The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement, Pulp Lounge, 103 Hilliard Ave, Downtown Asheville
Tickets: $15 (available at door or The Orange Peel website)
Cocktails available while you laugh the night away to some of the area’s best Stand Up Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!! Free snacks while availability lasts!
Hosted by Hilliary Begley, featuring Ryan Gordon
Comedy open mic is 3-5m each, comics get in free with free snacks!
FB: https://fb.me/e/4Qdi8lxKy
Host Hilliary Begley-
Hilliary will make you cry with laughter. With her larger that life personality!! Voted repeatedly Asheville’s Favorite comic in the Mountain Xpress. Film debut in the Netflix original Dumplin’ as Aunt Lucy, or “Jennifer Anniston’s fat sister,” In Austin Film Festival winning movie When We Last Spoke with Cloris Leachman, now streaming on Amazon Prime. https ://youtu.be/legRwEg4j-o
Featuring Ryan Gordon-
Born in Western North Cackalacky, Ryan started his comedy journey in nearby Asheville. After gaining traction on social media, he took to the stage to tell his jokes. With over 300K followers across different social media platforms, his videos have been viewed hundreds of millions of times. He has been in a few comedy festivals including the World Series of Comedy and Blue Ridge comedy festival.
Contact Michele at [email protected] for more info!
Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.
Undeniably the reigning virtuoso of the violin, Itzhak Perlman enjoys superstar status rarely afforded a classical musician. Beloved for his charm and humanity as well as his talent, he is treasured by audiences throughout the world who respond not only to his remarkable artistry, but also to his irrepressible joy for making music.
Having performed with every major orchestra and at concert halls around the globe, Mr. Perlman was granted a Presidential Medal of Freedom – the Nation’s highest civilian honor – by President Obama in 2015, a Kennedy Center Honor in 2003, a National Medal of Arts by President Clinton in 2000, and a Medal of Liberty by President Reagan in 1986. Mr. Perlman has been honored with 16 GRAMMY® Awards, four Emmy Awards, a Kennedy Center Honor, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and a Genesis Prize.
In the 2022/23 season, Mr. Perlman conducts the LA Philharmonic at the Hollywood Bowl and the Houston Symphony on Mozart’s Requiem, and is joined by an illustrious group of collaborators — Emanuel Ax, Jean-Yves Thibaudet and the Juilliard String Quartet — in a special Itzhak Perlman and Friends program appearing in only three locations: Toronto’s Roy Thomson Hall, UMS Ann Arbor and Carnegie Hall. He continues touring An Evening with Itzhak Perlman, which captures highlights of his career through narrative and multi-media elements intertwined with performance, to Boston, Philadelphia, Long Island, Akron, Austin and Naples (Florida). He plays season-opening concerts for the Colorado Symphony, Vancouver Symphony and Florida Orchestra, and recitals across the United States with longtime collaborator Rohan De Silva.
He currently serves as Artistic Partner of the Houston Symphony in a partnership that commenced in the 2020/21 season and culminates at the end of 2023/24. He performs 9 programs across three seasons that feature him in versatile appearances as conductor, soloist, recitalist and presenter.
Mr. Perlman has an exclusive series of classes with Masterclass.com, the premier online education company that enables access to the world’s most brilliant minds including Gordon Ramsay, Wolfgang Puck, Martin Scorsese, Ron Howard, Helen Mirren, Jodie Foster and Serena Williams, as the company’s first classical-music presenter.
James McMurtry is a Grammy-nominated folk-rock singer-songwriter, guitarist, bandleader, and occasional actor. A luminary in the Americana space, he weaves stories that resonate with gritty authenticity and emotional depth. His songwriting is celebrated by critics and fellow artists alike, with John Mellencamp raving, “James writes like he’s lived a lifetime,” and Jason Isbell lauding, “I don’t think anybody writes better lyrics.”
In August 2021, McMurtry released The Horses and the Hounds, his first collection in seven years. The album showcases his seasoned songwriting, seamlessly blending personal narratives with elegance (“Canola Fields”) and high energy (“If It Don’t Bleed”), and his ability to inhabit characters from various walks of life, as noted by critics who describe his work as subversive, funny, vulnerable and always poignant.
The release follows in the footsteps of McMurtry’s albums Complicated Games (2015), Just Us Kids (2008) and Childish Things (2005), all of which scored endless critical praise. Just Us Kids earned McMurtry his highest Billboard 200 chart position in two decades (since eclipsed by Complicated Game) and notched Americana Music Award nominations. Childish Things spent six full weeks topping the Americana Music Radio chart in 2005 and 2006, and won the Americana Music Association’s Album of the Year, with “We Can’t Make It Here” named the organization’s Song of the Year. Other accolades include a 1996 Grammy nomination for Long Form Music Video for Where’d You Hide the Body and an American Indie Award for Best Americana Album for It Had to Happen (1997).
Touring year-round, McMurtry consistently throws down powerhouse performances backed by his band.
McMurtry will be joined by opening act BettySoo.

