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.
By Duncan MacMillian with Jonny Donahoe
Directed by Charlie Flynn-McIver and Starring Scott Treadway
One of the funniest plays you’ll ever see about depression—and possibly one of the funniest plays you’ll ever see, full stop…There is something tough being confronted here—the guilt of not being able to make those we love happy—and it is explored with unflinching honesty.” —The Guardian (UK)
Content Warning: Although the play balances the struggles of life while celebrating all that is wonderful in living each day, Every Brilliant Thing contains descriptions of depression, self-harm, and suicide. It is recommended for audience members 14 and older. If you or somebody you know is struggling, please call 988, The Suicide & Crisis Hotline.
One of classic literature’s most beloved romantic comedies, this sharp social satire takes on the nuances of love and marriage in a way that transcends time — humorously skewering the hypocrisies and absurdities of the English class system, while putting women characters front and center. A local favorite each season, Aquila Theatre returns to bring this classic thrillingly to life, with all the passion, energy and visual flair for which this world-class company is known.
Connect with Aquila Theatre
- Master Class: Learn from Aquila Theatre in a Physical Theatre Master Class on February 4 for actors ages 16+. Learn more here.
- Pre-show Discussions: February 3 & 4 at 7 p.m. Tina McGuire Theatre.
Purchase a subscription to the Music on the Rock® Winter / Spring Concert Series and receive a 10% Discount!
Don’t miss out!
Performances are limited. Join us for a rockin’ night with these enduring tunes and the incredible artists that will have you swooning and hungry for more!
The City of Asheville’s Community and Economic Development Department is now accepting applications for CDBG and HOME grant funds, and for the Housing Trust Fund (HTF) for fiscal year 2023-24.
The Community and Economic Development Department manages and administers programs for Asheville and for a four-county consortium, consisting of Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania and Madison Counties, that provide affordable housing, economic opportunities and other benefits for low-income residents.
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) are federal grant programs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) which provide grant funds for eligible projects to create affordable housing for low-income households and support community development activities to build stronger and more resilient communities.
The City of Asheville’s Housing Trust Fund was created in 2000 to provide a source of local funding to assist in the development of affordable housing in Asheville. Assistance is available in the form of repayable loans at a low rate of interest.
How to Apply:
To download the CDBG/HOME application documents and instructions visit the Community Development Funding Programs page. The deadline to submit an online application for CDBG/HOME funds is February 3, 2023 at 12:00 noon.
To download the Housing Trust Fund documents, view the HTF policy and access the application, visit the Housing Trust Fund webpage. The deadline to submit an application for the Housing Trust Fund is February 10, 2023 at 12:00 noon.
Questions about the CDBG/HOME application process can be sent to the Community Development team via email: [email protected].
We’re putting our build crew back together and we’d love to have you join us. Every 2 weeks, we’ll meet at 9 am for hands-on set construction! Whether your talents are building, painting, or you just want to learn, come out and join us every other Saturday for some creative fun. Tools and work gloves are helpful but not required
This Physical Theatre Master Class is designed to allow participants to experience the requirements and disciplines of working and performing in a physical theatre company. It focuses on forming an ensemble style of acting that will interpret and serve the text, as well as explore the ways in which kinesthetic empathy operates. By sharing some of the Aquila Theatre Company’s rituals, in the form of movement, and improv, the participant will explore the imaginative and physical resources that the company uses to create its own unique theatrical style.
Skill Level: Intermediate
Ages: 16+
La Vie Boheme! Join the HS Company in the musical that shaped a generation of audiences and taught us all to measure our life in love.
Set in the East Village of New York City, Rent School Edition is about falling in love, finding your voice and living for today. Winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, it has become a pop cultural phenomenon with songs that rock and a story that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Based loosely on Puccini’s La Boheme, Rent School Edition follows a year in the life of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians struggling to survive and create in New York’s Lower East Side, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS. The physical and emotional complications of the disease pervade the lives of Roger, Mimi, Tom and Angel. Maureen deals with her chronic infidelity through performance art; her partner, Joanne, wonders if their relationship is worth the trouble. Benny has sold out his Bohemian ideals in exchange for a hefty income and is on the outs with his former friends. Mark, an aspiring filmmaker, feels like an outsider to life in general. How these young bohemians negotiate their dreams, loves and conflicts provides the narrative thread to this groundbreaking musical.
Please note, this performance is rated PG-13. This musical contains mature themes that center around the AIDS Crisis.
Written by Carlyle Brown
Directed by Stephanie Hickling Beckman
ABE LINCOLN AND UNCLE TOM IN THE WHITE HOUSE portrays a gripping re-imagination of the the events the night before Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. Alone in the Executive Office, President Abraham Lincoln is struggling with signing the Emancipation Proclamation when he is mysteriously visited by Uncle Tom, the fictional character in Harriet Beecher Stowe’s abolitionist novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin; or, Life Among the Lowly. These two iconic characters from life and literature—one real, the other fiction—attempt to understand each other across a chasm of race in the midst of the Civil War. Throughout one late night and into the dawning day, they find themselves crossing over into each other’s world in a tale of suffering, self-discovery, and redemption.
“I hadn’t read the book [Uncle Tom’s Cabin], and I had fallen victim to the mentality that says when you hear the name Uncle Tom you get the picture of the worst individual you could imagine, In reading the book, I found a character of honor and dignity and I thought, maybe this character deserves to be looked at again.” – James A Williams
By Duncan MacMillian with Jonny Donahoe
Directed by Charlie Flynn-McIver and Starring Scott Treadway
One of the funniest plays you’ll ever see about depression—and possibly one of the funniest plays you’ll ever see, full stop…There is something tough being confronted here—the guilt of not being able to make those we love happy—and it is explored with unflinching honesty.” —The Guardian (UK)
Content Warning: Although the play balances the struggles of life while celebrating all that is wonderful in living each day, Every Brilliant Thing contains descriptions of depression, self-harm, and suicide. It is recommended for audience members 14 and older. If you or somebody you know is struggling, please call 988, The Suicide & Crisis Hotline.
A piece of advice from 44 B.C.: Beware the Ides of March. Fresh from his success on the battlefield, a triumphant Caesar returns to Rome a virtual dictator, prompting his close circle to decide that he must be stopped — through whatever means necessary. This striking production breathes new fire and fury into the timeless tale of the fall and rise of Rome’s ruling class, inviting audiences on a journey into the world of conspiracy and betrayal.
Connect with the artists and works in master classes and during pre-show discussions.
Connect with Aquila Theatre
- Master Class: Learn from Aquila Theatre in a Physical Theatre Master Class on February 4 for actors ages 16+. Learn more here.
- Pre-show Discussions: February 3 & 4 at 7 p.m. Tina McGuire Theatre.
The City of Asheville’s Community and Economic Development Department is now accepting applications for CDBG and HOME grant funds, and for the Housing Trust Fund (HTF) for fiscal year 2023-24.
The Community and Economic Development Department manages and administers programs for Asheville and for a four-county consortium, consisting of Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania and Madison Counties, that provide affordable housing, economic opportunities and other benefits for low-income residents.
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) are federal grant programs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) which provide grant funds for eligible projects to create affordable housing for low-income households and support community development activities to build stronger and more resilient communities.
The City of Asheville’s Housing Trust Fund was created in 2000 to provide a source of local funding to assist in the development of affordable housing in Asheville. Assistance is available in the form of repayable loans at a low rate of interest.
How to Apply:
To download the CDBG/HOME application documents and instructions visit the Community Development Funding Programs page. The deadline to submit an online application for CDBG/HOME funds is February 3, 2023 at 12:00 noon.
To download the Housing Trust Fund documents, view the HTF policy and access the application, visit the Housing Trust Fund webpage. The deadline to submit an application for the Housing Trust Fund is February 10, 2023 at 12:00 noon.
Questions about the CDBG/HOME application process can be sent to the Community Development team via email: [email protected].
By Duncan MacMillian with Jonny Donahoe
Directed by Charlie Flynn-McIver and Starring Scott Treadway
One of the funniest plays you’ll ever see about depression—and possibly one of the funniest plays you’ll ever see, full stop…There is something tough being confronted here—the guilt of not being able to make those we love happy—and it is explored with unflinching honesty.” —The Guardian (UK)
Content Warning: Although the play balances the struggles of life while celebrating all that is wonderful in living each day, Every Brilliant Thing contains descriptions of depression, self-harm, and suicide. It is recommended for audience members 14 and older. If you or somebody you know is struggling, please call 988, The Suicide & Crisis Hotline.
What: Asheville’s Premier Standup Feature & Open Mic comedy
When: Sunday, February 5, 6:30pm (Come early to get your food and drinks!)
Where: Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co., Theater 2
675 Merrimon Avenue in North Asheville (onsite parking)
Tickets: $14
Comedy open mic. [signup at the door to get 3-5m. Free entry for performing comics, free pizza at comics table]
Hosted by Morgan Bost featuring Allison Shelnut, Jess Cooley and Larry Griffin
FB: https://fb.me/e/3Yb5s4IfD
The Asheville Downtown Association’s (ADA) Wristband Partner Program provides an opportunity for local nonprofits to sell wristbands at ADA events. The selected nonprofit receives a grant of $2,000, as well as the opportunity to share their program of work with the large audiences at these events. Deadline to apply is Friday, February 24, 2023.
The City of Asheville’s Community and Economic Development Department is now accepting applications for CDBG and HOME grant funds, and for the Housing Trust Fund (HTF) for fiscal year 2023-24.
The Community and Economic Development Department manages and administers programs for Asheville and for a four-county consortium, consisting of Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania and Madison Counties, that provide affordable housing, economic opportunities and other benefits for low-income residents.
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) are federal grant programs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) which provide grant funds for eligible projects to create affordable housing for low-income households and support community development activities to build stronger and more resilient communities.
The City of Asheville’s Housing Trust Fund was created in 2000 to provide a source of local funding to assist in the development of affordable housing in Asheville. Assistance is available in the form of repayable loans at a low rate of interest.
How to Apply:
To download the CDBG/HOME application documents and instructions visit the Community Development Funding Programs page. The deadline to submit an online application for CDBG/HOME funds is February 3, 2023 at 12:00 noon.
To download the Housing Trust Fund documents, view the HTF policy and access the application, visit the Housing Trust Fund webpage. The deadline to submit an application for the Housing Trust Fund is February 10, 2023 at 12:00 noon.
Questions about the CDBG/HOME application process can be sent to the Community Development team via email: [email protected].
Recommended for Grades 6-12
The fate of a nation hangs in the balance. Journey to a world of conspiracy and betrayal in Aquila Theatre’s striking new production of Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare. Aquila’s nationally-renowned work gives the classics modern relevance and enriches students’ understanding of English literature. With a modern take on ancient themes of war and violence, this production may contain mature content.
Reservations for individuals (10 people or less): $12 each. To reserve, call the box office at 828-257-4530 ext. 1, email [email protected], or complete the Student Series Reservation Form.
Reservations for groups (11 people or more): $11 each. To reserve, download and complete the Student Series Reservation Form. Please note that all group reservations require a deposit of $1 per ticket. Please contact the box office if you have questions.
Learn more about Aquila Theatre here.
Performance Length: Approx. 2 hours, 20 minutes
February 6-April 17 (Spring Break March 13-17)
MONDAY 4:30PM – 5:30
Instructor: Zoe Zelonky
This fun and high-energy 10-week class combines the three fundamentals of musical theater, acting, singing, and dance, in an accessible and exciting way! With a focus on singing technique, musicality, movement, and storytelling, students will learn new skills and make friends as they develop songs from Broadway musicals. No prior experience is necessary. With new material every semester, this class can (and should) be taken multiple times! We will end the semester with a performance for family and friends on Monday April 24 in the evening!
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- Payment plans are available through the Box Office at 828.693.0731.
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A $50 deposit is required to secure the student’s spot in the class. The full payment must be completed by the first day of class.
-
Students and families that register for more than one class are offered a $25 discount for each additional class. This offer applies to multiple classes for one student or family discounts for siblings.
-
*Need-based scholarships are available upon application.
February 6 – April 17 (Spring Break March 13-17)
MONDAY 5:45-6:45PM
Instructor: Zoe Zelonky
In this 10-week session discover the fun and fundamentals of musical theatre technique by integrating acting, singing, and simple choreography in the development of a Broadway repertoire. Students will learn proper vocal technique, story-telling through song, musical theatre-style choreography, and how to work within an ensemble. Apply your skills at the end of class performance for friends and family on Monday April 24 in the evening. With new material every semester, this class can (and should) be taken multiple times.
Dates: February 6 – April 17
Grades: 3rd-5th
Day/Time: Monday 5:45-6:45
Tuition: $190
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- Payment plans are available through the Box Office at 828.693.0731.
-
A $50 deposit is required to secure the student’s spot in the class. The full payment must be completed by the first day of class.
-
Students and families that register for more than one class are offered a $25 discount for each additional class. This offer applies to multiple classes for one student or family discounts for siblings.
-
*Need-based scholarships are available upon application.
The Asheville Downtown Association’s (ADA) Wristband Partner Program provides an opportunity for local nonprofits to sell wristbands at ADA events. The selected nonprofit receives a grant of $2,000, as well as the opportunity to share their program of work with the large audiences at these events. Deadline to apply is Friday, February 24, 2023.
The City of Asheville’s Community and Economic Development Department is now accepting applications for CDBG and HOME grant funds, and for the Housing Trust Fund (HTF) for fiscal year 2023-24.
The Community and Economic Development Department manages and administers programs for Asheville and for a four-county consortium, consisting of Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania and Madison Counties, that provide affordable housing, economic opportunities and other benefits for low-income residents.
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) are federal grant programs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) which provide grant funds for eligible projects to create affordable housing for low-income households and support community development activities to build stronger and more resilient communities.
The City of Asheville’s Housing Trust Fund was created in 2000 to provide a source of local funding to assist in the development of affordable housing in Asheville. Assistance is available in the form of repayable loans at a low rate of interest.
How to Apply:
To download the CDBG/HOME application documents and instructions visit the Community Development Funding Programs page. The deadline to submit an online application for CDBG/HOME funds is February 3, 2023 at 12:00 noon.
To download the Housing Trust Fund documents, view the HTF policy and access the application, visit the Housing Trust Fund webpage. The deadline to submit an application for the Housing Trust Fund is February 10, 2023 at 12:00 noon.
Questions about the CDBG/HOME application process can be sent to the Community Development team via email: [email protected].
February 7 – April 18 (Spring Break March 13-17)
Tuesday 4:30-5:30
Instructor: Christa Matheus
This 10-week class is designed for curious young performers eager to explore the “FUN”-damentals of acting. Through high-energy theatre games, improvisation, pantomime, storytelling, and ensemble-based activities, students will hone their theatre skills, build meaningful connections with other young artists, and discover their creative potential! Showcase what you learned at the end of class performance for friends and family on Monday April 24 in the evening. With new material every semester, this class can (and should) be taken multiple times.
Dates: February 7 – April 18
Grades: 3rd-5th
Day/Time: Tuesday 4:30-5:30
Instructor: Christa Mattheus
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Payment plans are available through the Box Office at 828.693.0731.
-
A $50 deposit is required to secure the student’s spot in the class. The full payment must be completed by the first day of class.
-
Students and families that register for more than one class are offered a $25 discount for each additional class. This offer applies to multiple classes for one student or family discounts for siblings.
-
*Need-based scholarships are available upon application.
ACTING
6th – 8th Grades
February 7 – April 19
Tuesday 5:45-6:45
Instructor: Christa Matheus
In this 10-week semester, young artists will learn to create dynamic relationships through theatre games, improvisation, and scene work. With an emphasis on ensemble storytelling, character creation, physicality, and voice and speech, students will leave feeling more collaborative, creative, and confident making bold choices on stage and in life. Apply your skills at the end of semester performance for friends and family on Monday April 24 in the evening. No prior experience is necessary, only an open mind! With new material every semester, this class can (and should) be taken multiple times.
- Payment plans are available through the Box Office at 828.693.0731.
-
A $50 deposit is required to secure the student’s spot in the class. The full payment must be completed by the first day of class.
-
Students and families that register for more than one class are offered a $25 discount for each additional class. This offer applies to multiple classes for one student or family discounts for siblings.
-
*Need-based scholarships are available upon application.
The Asheville Downtown Association’s (ADA) Wristband Partner Program provides an opportunity for local nonprofits to sell wristbands at ADA events. The selected nonprofit receives a grant of $2,000, as well as the opportunity to share their program of work with the large audiences at these events. Deadline to apply is Friday, February 24, 2023.
The City of Asheville’s Community and Economic Development Department is now accepting applications for CDBG and HOME grant funds, and for the Housing Trust Fund (HTF) for fiscal year 2023-24.
The Community and Economic Development Department manages and administers programs for Asheville and for a four-county consortium, consisting of Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania and Madison Counties, that provide affordable housing, economic opportunities and other benefits for low-income residents.
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) are federal grant programs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) which provide grant funds for eligible projects to create affordable housing for low-income households and support community development activities to build stronger and more resilient communities.
The City of Asheville’s Housing Trust Fund was created in 2000 to provide a source of local funding to assist in the development of affordable housing in Asheville. Assistance is available in the form of repayable loans at a low rate of interest.
How to Apply:
To download the CDBG/HOME application documents and instructions visit the Community Development Funding Programs page. The deadline to submit an online application for CDBG/HOME funds is February 3, 2023 at 12:00 noon.
To download the Housing Trust Fund documents, view the HTF policy and access the application, visit the Housing Trust Fund webpage. The deadline to submit an application for the Housing Trust Fund is February 10, 2023 at 12:00 noon.
Questions about the CDBG/HOME application process can be sent to the Community Development team via email: [email protected].
MUSICAL THEATRE
6th – 8th Grades
February 8 – April 19 (Spring Break March 13-17)
WEDNESDAY: 5:00PM-6:00PM
Instructor: Lauren Hopkins & Ethan Andersen
Build on the fundamentals of musical theatre technique by integrating acting, singing, and basic choreography in the development of a musical revue. Expand on principles of vocal technique, music theory, knowledge of Broadway repertoire, expression of character through movement, and learn how to elevate performances by making specific and unique choices on stage. Apply your skills at the end of semester performance for friends and family on Monday April 24 in the evening. With new material every semester, this class can (and should) be taken multiple times!
- Payment plans are available through the Box Office at 828.693.0731.
-
A $50 deposit is required to secure the student’s spot in the class. The full payment must be completed by the first day of class.
-
Students and families that register for more than one class are offered a $25 discount for each additional camp. This offer applies to multiple class for one student or family discounts for siblings.
-
*Need-based scholarships are available upon application.
TEEN ENSEMBLE
February 8 – April 19 (Spring Break March 13-17)
8th-12th Grades
Wednesday 6:30PM-8:00PM
Instructors: Lauren Hopkins & Ethan Andersen
In this collegiate-style class, teen artists will learn from industry experts in a combination of acting and musical theatre training, rehearsal, and performance. Daily classes in acting, movement, and music will challenge students to explore the nuances of theatre technique and provide a framework approaching songs, scenes, and monologues, developed and performed in an original revue at the end of the session. This session is ideal for students who are passionate about theatre, excited to collaborate in a pre-professional environment with peers and industry experts, and looking to grow and develop as artists. Showcase your revue at our end of semester performance for family and friends on Monday April 24 in the evening! With new material every semester, this class can (and should) be taken multiple times.
- Payment plans are available through the Box Office at 828.693.0731.
-
A $50 deposit is required to secure the student’s spot in the class. The full payment must be completed by the first day of class.
-
Students and families that register for more than one class are offered a $25 discount for each additional class. This offer applies to multiple classes for one student or family discounts for siblings.
-
*Need-based and merit-based scholarships are available upon application.
By Duncan MacMillian with Jonny Donahoe
Directed by Charlie Flynn-McIver and Starring Scott Treadway
One of the funniest plays you’ll ever see about depression—and possibly one of the funniest plays you’ll ever see, full stop…There is something tough being confronted here—the guilt of not being able to make those we love happy—and it is explored with unflinching honesty.” —The Guardian (UK)
Content Warning: Although the play balances the struggles of life while celebrating all that is wonderful in living each day, Every Brilliant Thing contains descriptions of depression, self-harm, and suicide. It is recommended for audience members 14 and older. If you or somebody you know is struggling, please call 988, The Suicide & Crisis Hotline.
The Asheville Downtown Association’s (ADA) Wristband Partner Program provides an opportunity for local nonprofits to sell wristbands at ADA events. The selected nonprofit receives a grant of $2,000, as well as the opportunity to share their program of work with the large audiences at these events. Deadline to apply is Friday, February 24, 2023.
The City of Asheville’s Community and Economic Development Department is now accepting applications for CDBG and HOME grant funds, and for the Housing Trust Fund (HTF) for fiscal year 2023-24.
The Community and Economic Development Department manages and administers programs for Asheville and for a four-county consortium, consisting of Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania and Madison Counties, that provide affordable housing, economic opportunities and other benefits for low-income residents.
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) are federal grant programs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) which provide grant funds for eligible projects to create affordable housing for low-income households and support community development activities to build stronger and more resilient communities.
The City of Asheville’s Housing Trust Fund was created in 2000 to provide a source of local funding to assist in the development of affordable housing in Asheville. Assistance is available in the form of repayable loans at a low rate of interest.
How to Apply:
To download the CDBG/HOME application documents and instructions visit the Community Development Funding Programs page. The deadline to submit an online application for CDBG/HOME funds is February 3, 2023 at 12:00 noon.
To download the Housing Trust Fund documents, view the HTF policy and access the application, visit the Housing Trust Fund webpage. The deadline to submit an application for the Housing Trust Fund is February 10, 2023 at 12:00 noon.
Questions about the CDBG/HOME application process can be sent to the Community Development team via email: [email protected].
February 9-April 20 (Spring Break March 13-17)
THURSDAY 4:30PM – 5:30
Instructor: Eleanor Palmer
This fun and high-energy 10-week class combines the three fundamentals of musical theater, acting, singing, and dance, in an accessible and exciting way! With a focus on singing technique, musicality, movement, and storytelling, students will learn new skills and make friends as they develop songs from Broadway musicals. No prior experience is necessary. With new material every semester, this class can (and should) be taken multiple times! We will end the semester with a performance for family and friends on Monday April 24 in the evening!
Dates: February 9 – April 20
Day/Time: Thursday 4:30-5:30
Grades: K-2
Instructor: Eleanor Palmer
Tuition: $190
Location: Studio 52
1855 Little River Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731
- Payment plans are available through the Box Office at 828.693.0731.
-
A $50 deposit is required to secure the student’s spot in the class. The full payment must be completed by the first day of class.
-
Students and families that register for more than one class are offered a $25 discount for each additional class. This offer applies to multiple classes for one student or family discounts for siblings.
-
*Need-based scholarships are available upon application.