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.
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.

Everywhere across this great land, we see, hear and feel impressions of the peoples that once cultivated it. In this year’s Spring Retreat, we will uplift and honor First Nations, Indigenous & LatinX peoples as a precursor to our Fall Festival, and honor our own community leaders. We also have a yearly focus on Health: mental, physical & emotional wellbeing. It is a time of rejoicing and celebrating those that came before us. A rekindling of the wisdom passed down through generations; a time of honoring beautiful legacies, stories and traditions. Please join as we enter a world of learning through the eyes of the greats, this May 11-14th at LEAF Retreat!
*Assembly Required is the premiere destination for independent designer, bootleg and art toy artists and collectors.
Refining inspiration from a variety of underground and subcultural elements, *Assembly Required honors this turn of the century pop surrealistic art movement, as the melting pot of artistic expression.
2023 will be *Assembly Required’s 5th year running celebrating this avant-garde culture, at The Grey Eagle in the River Arts District.
Saturday, February 4, 2023: 11a-5p
Sunday, February 5, 2023: 11a-4p
More information can be found at www.assembly-required.net
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
Everywhere across this great land, we see, hear and feel impressions of the peoples that once cultivated it. In this year’s Spring Retreat, we will uplift and honor First Nations, Indigenous & LatinX peoples as a precursor to our Fall Festival, and honor our own community leaders. We also have a yearly focus on Health: mental, physical & emotional wellbeing. It is a time of rejoicing and celebrating those that came before us. A rekindling of the wisdom passed down through generations; a time of honoring beautiful legacies, stories and traditions. Please join as we enter a world of learning through the eyes of the greats, this May 11-14th at LEAF Retreat!
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.
-
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.
Everywhere across this great land, we see, hear and feel impressions of the peoples that once cultivated it. In this year’s Spring Retreat, we will uplift and honor First Nations, Indigenous & LatinX peoples as a precursor to our Fall Festival, and honor our own community leaders. We also have a yearly focus on Health: mental, physical & emotional wellbeing. It is a time of rejoicing and celebrating those that came before us. A rekindling of the wisdom passed down through generations; a time of honoring beautiful legacies, stories and traditions. Please join as we enter a world of learning through the eyes of the greats, this May 11-14th at LEAF Retreat!
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.
Everywhere across this great land, we see, hear and feel impressions of the peoples that once cultivated it. In this year’s Spring Retreat, we will uplift and honor First Nations, Indigenous & LatinX peoples as a precursor to our Fall Festival, and honor our own community leaders. We also have a yearly focus on Health: mental, physical & emotional wellbeing. It is a time of rejoicing and celebrating those that came before us. A rekindling of the wisdom passed down through generations; a time of honoring beautiful legacies, stories and traditions. Please join as we enter a world of learning through the eyes of the greats, this May 11-14th at LEAF Retreat!
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.
Everywhere across this great land, we see, hear and feel impressions of the peoples that once cultivated it. In this year’s Spring Retreat, we will uplift and honor First Nations, Indigenous & LatinX peoples as a precursor to our Fall Festival, and honor our own community leaders. We also have a yearly focus on Health: mental, physical & emotional wellbeing. It is a time of rejoicing and celebrating those that came before us. A rekindling of the wisdom passed down through generations; a time of honoring beautiful legacies, stories and traditions. Please join as we enter a world of learning through the eyes of the greats, this May 11-14th at LEAF Retreat!
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.
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.
Time to schedule a Valentine’s date for yourself. During these two classes, you will learn and get to know the basics of classic burlesque dance as well as perfecting a dance routine. Please wear clothes you can move in, and bring a large button-down or sweatshirt as well as a scarf or wrap to play with!

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.
2.9.23 The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement PULP
What: Stand up Comedy at The Orange Peel’s Pulp Lounge
When: Thursday 2.9.2023. 8p-11p, doors at 7:30p
Where: The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement, Pulp Lounge103 Hilliard Ave, Downtown Asheville
Tickets: $14 (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!! .
Open mic comics signup at door get 3-5m. [Free entry for performing comics, free snacks at comics table]
FB Event: https://fb.me/e/3aHkfNBlR
Moira Goree Moira is a comedian from Asheville,NC. With a perfect mix of heavy and humor Moira Goree brings rockstar energy to her intense storytelling and queer comedic presence. She’s a transgender woman who people have called darkly funny and authentic in her delivery. . She performs all over the southeast.She’s opened for Rory Scovel,Myk Caplan & Emma Arnold.
Host Cody Hughes: Cody is a comedian who cut his teeth in Chicago and Atlanta. He is now based out of West North Carolina and tours the Southeast. He has opened for Lewis Black, John Oliver and Maria Bamford among others and hosts the regular Slice of Life Comedy shows at The Orange Peel’s Pulp Lounge.
About Pulp: The speakeasy inspired hideaway offers a cozy space for show-goers to relax and enjoy a beverage during the concert. Boasting over 200 different Bourbons and Whiskeys, alongside a myriad of other spirits, it is a must-visit for cocktail lovers and Bourbon sippers alike. Pulp will also open various other nights to feature local artists and “Slice of Life” open-mic comedy nights. To stay informed with the happenings at Pulp, visit the Orange Peel’s website, and follow @pulp_avl on Instagram.
About Slice of Life Comedy: Slice of Life Comedy is owned and run by long standing Ashevillian Michele Scheve. Michele was the Founder and Publisher of the hit satire newspaper “The Asheville Disclaimer” in 2002 (till 2015). She also Hosts one of 103.3 Asheville FM’ longest running and most popular shows, “Slumber Party AVL”, which began in 2011. In addition to these established platforms, Michele also Co-Founded and Co-Owns Buzz Radio Asheville, which features only local music and comedy 24/7. Slice of Life Comedy began as a partnership, between Michele and comedian Kelly Rowe, doing live shows at Pulp Lounge in 2010, highlighting local up-and-coming comics through Open Mic events. From there, Slice of Life Comedy began booking feature shows, After-Party shows for national headline acts and collaboration with more and more venues and producers in the scene. Today, Slice of Life Comedy is the Premiere Partner for shows at some of Asheville’s most well-known and beloved venues.
Everywhere across this great land, we see, hear and feel impressions of the peoples that once cultivated it. In this year’s Spring Retreat, we will uplift and honor First Nations, Indigenous & LatinX peoples as a precursor to our Fall Festival, and honor our own community leaders. We also have a yearly focus on Health: mental, physical & emotional wellbeing. It is a time of rejoicing and celebrating those that came before us. A rekindling of the wisdom passed down through generations; a time of honoring beautiful legacies, stories and traditions. Please join as we enter a world of learning through the eyes of the greats, this May 11-14th at LEAF Retreat!
With unrivaled arena production quality, Jurassic World comes to life against a backdrop of captivating scenery where dinosaurs from the iconic franchise, including fan-favorite Velociraptor Blue and a Tyrannosaurus rex more than 40 feet in length, take center stage. The production features more than 24 film-accurate, life-sized dinosaurs, with scale, speed and ferocity, operated by animatronics and performers.
Jurassic World’s unmistakable score combined with projection and practical scenery transforms the arena into the dense jungles of Isla Nublar, where real Gyrospheres roll through the valley and scientists work to unravel a corrupt plan and save anew dinosaur from a terrible fate. With pulse-pounding stunts and an original, authentic storyline, this show is guaranteed to make memories that will last another 65 million years.
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

