Willy Wonka Jr.

By Timothy Allen McDonald & Leslie Bricusse
In the Fangmeyer Theatre

Do you have the golden ticket?

The delicious adventures of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory light up the stage in this captivating adaptation of Roald Dahl’s fantastical tale. Enigmatic candy manufacturer, Willy Wonka, stages a contest by hiding golden tickets in five of his scrumptious candy bars. Whomever comes up with these tickets will win a free tour of the Wonka factory, as well as a lifetime supply of candy. Four of the five winning children are insufferable brats, but the fifth is a likeable young lad named Charlie Bucket, who takes the tour in the company of his equally amiable grandfather. The children must learn to follow Mr. Wonka’s rules in the factory — or suffer the consequences. Featuring the enchanting songs from the 1971 film, in addition to a host of fun new songs, Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka JR. is a scrumdidilyumptious musical guaranteed to delight everyone’s sweet tooth.

Suitable for all audiences.

Written by Samuel D. Hunter

Keith, a mortgage broker and Ryan, a yogurt plant worker, are two men who, at first glance, have nothing in common. Their meeting, in Keith’s cubicle, evolves from a business discussion to a thoughtful exploration of parenthood, financial insecurity, and empathy. Both intimate and expansive, Samuel D. Hunter’s heartbreaking new play argues for hope even in the face of extreme disappointment as two men with seemingly very different lives grow to care for one another.

Content advisory: strong language

Gross Indecency: The Three Trials of Oscar Wilde

By Moisés Kaufman

Directed by Stephanie Hickling Beckman, Managing Artistic Director of Different Strokes! Performing Arts Collective 

Our Black Box series continues as we welcome to the stage the magnificent work of William Shakespeare. Surrender to a haunting story of ambition and its dark consequences, as a military hero and his wife conspire to seize political power. A terrifyingly prophetic tale of revenge, murder, and madness, Macbeth lays bare the fallout when the darkest side of humanity cheats its way into a position of power.  One of Shakespeare’s bloodiest, scariest, and yet, most popular tragedies.

It’s the brassy, bright, and promising year of 1959. Boston’s Colonial Theatre is host to the opening night performance of a new musical. When the leading lady mysteriously dies onstage the entire cast & crew are suspects. Enter a local detective, who just happens to be a musical theatre fan! Packed with glorious tunes and a witty, charming script filled with delightful characters, Curtains is a hilarious journey for both performers and the audience.

It’s the brassy, bright, and promising year of 1959. Boston’s Colonial Theatre is host to the opening night performance of a new musical. When the leading lady mysteriously dies onstage the entire cast & crew are suspects. Enter a local detective, who just happens to be a musical theatre fan! Packed with glorious tunes and a witty, charming script filled with delightful characters, Curtains is a hilarious journey for both performers and the audience.

It’s the brassy, bright, and promising year of 1959. Boston’s Colonial Theatre is host to the opening night performance of a new musical. When the leading lady mysteriously dies onstage the entire cast & crew are suspects. Enter a local detective, who just happens to be a musical theatre fan! Packed with glorious tunes and a witty, charming script filled with delightful characters, Curtains is a hilarious journey for both performers and the audience.

Music by John Kander. Lyrics by Fred Ebb. Book by Rupert Holmes.

Jack of the Wood : Sunday-Irish Session 

Sundays

1 till who knows when?

Traditional Irish music is kept alive at Jack of the Wood with our unplugged Sunday session.

Jack of the Wood

95 Patton ave

Asheville, NC 28801

(828) 252.5445

http://www.jackofthewood.com/

Songwriter, pianist, vocalist, and activist Nina Simone was one of the most significant musical artists of the 20th century, creating music for the Civil Rights Movement that spanned a wide variety of genres ranging from Jazz to Blues to Classical to Gospel. Honoring this legendary and prolific musician will be a 5-piece ensemble featuring Asheville-NC based vocalists Kelle Jolly and Reggie Headen, accompanied by a trio consisting of WNC locals Derrick Gardner (piano), Connor Law (bass) and Jason DeCristofaro (drums/band leader).

The group is named for its participants, all of whom have names beginning with the letter B:
* BILL COVINGTON, a North Carolina native and a graduate of the New England
Conservatory of Music in Boston and UNC-Chapel Hill, is a free lance musician and piano
teacher who has played at the Grove Park Inn since 2000 and has been a member of the Bs
for the past twelve years.
*  BRUCE LANG, a transplanted New Yorker, relishes singing and playing upright bass,
guitar, and mandolin. Bruce is also involved in theater productions and operating his family's
Big Creek Recording studio.
* BRYON HEDGEPETH, a noted percussionist and timpanist, has performed at
Hendersonville's First Baptist Church, Brevard Philharmonic Orchestra, Asheville
Symphony, plus the Charlotte and NC Symphonies.
Individually and collectively, The Bs are outstanding musicians and ready to deliver a fun

Join us for Black Mountain’s original Sunday Jam! Hosted by Spiro and Friends, this jam features original jams and favorite covers. Bring your instrument! Sign-ups at the stage starting at 6 PM!

Pisgah Beer, Gluten Free and N/A options available. Family and dog friendly venue.

The taproom is open from 2:00 to 9:00 PM with music beginning at 6:30 PM.

“Odyssey,” a new show from internationally acclaimed group Celtic Thunder, is a fascinating exploration of Irish music and culture, firmly grounded in the ensemble’s impressive history, while ambitiously forging new paths. The word ‘Odyssey’ implies a significant journey, and that’s precisely what audiences are invited on-a sweeping voyage through the heartlands of traditional Irish music, the rhythmic pulse of contemporary Irish music, and the innovative original arrangements that are emblematic of Celtic Thunder’s unique sound.

Celtic Thunder’s shared musical chemistry, steeped in their Irish heritage, gives the show its compelling power, while each member adds their distinctive voice and charm to this musical journey, creating a harmonious blend that appeals to a broad spectrum of tastes. The “Odyssey” songbook weaves a rich tapestry of emotional and musical tones.

Audiences will be swept up in an energetic rendition of “Go Lassie Go,” a traditional folk song that has been given a new lease of life through Celtic Thunder’s vibrant harmonies and fresh musical interpretation. The poignant “City of Chicago” serves as a moving tribute to the Irish diaspora, resonating deeply with its heartfelt lyrics and evocative melodies. And “The Parting Glass,” an iconic classic from the annals of Irish music, is delivered with such profound emotion that it reverberates through the soul.

The talented Celtic Thunder Band lends their instrumental prowess throughout, providing an authentic and sonically rich backdrop to the vocal performances. Their expert musicianship underscores the music’s Irish roots, while their versatility ensures that every song, regardless of genre, is treated with the respect and creativity it deserves.

Memorable musical moments take place on a stage that brilliantly embodies the ethereal mystique of Celtic folklore and the grounded reality of contemporary Irish life. World-class production quality, with a stunning lighting design, paints an atmospheric picture that enhances the emotive resonance of the songs. Detailed and elegant costumes strike a balance between traditional Celtic attire and modern aesthetics, symbolizing the group’s successful fusion of the old and the new.

“Odyssey” is not simply a concert; it’s a powerful theatrical experience that honors Celtic Thunder’s rich musical legacy and simultaneously blazes new trails. An evocative journey through time, sound, and culture, as educational as it is entertaining. The captivating blend of music, storytelling, and atmospheric stagecraft makes “Odyssey” a must-see spectacle for fans of Celtic Thunder and Irish music in general.

It’s the brassy, bright, and promising year of 1959. Boston’s Colonial Theatre is host to the opening night performance of a new musical. When the leading lady mysteriously dies onstage the entire cast & crew are suspects. Enter a local detective, who just happens to be a musical theatre fan! Packed with glorious tunes and a witty, charming script filled with delightful characters, Curtains is a hilarious journey for both performers and the audience.

Coco Live-to-Film Concert features a screening of the complete Disney Pixar film with Oscar® and Grammy®-winning composer Michael Giacchino’s musical score performed live by the 20-member Orquesta Folclórica Nacional de México. In addition to the original score by Giacchino, “Coco” also features the Oscar®-winning song “Remember Me” by Oscar-winning songwriters Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez and additional songs co-written by Germaine Franco and co-director and screenwriter Adrian Molina. Audiences will travel with Miguel (voice of Anthony Gonzalez) on his extraordinary journey to the colorful Land of the Dead to unlock the real story behind his family’s history set to a live orchestra.

Disney Pixar Coco es un evento especial que no te puedes perder. El evento consta de la proyección de la película, mientras la Orquesta Folclórica Nacional de México interpreta la música  del compositor ganador del Oscar® y el Grammy®, Michael Giacchino, en vivo. Además de la música original de Giacchino, “Coco” también incluye la canción ganadora del Oscar® “Remember Me” de los compositores ganadores del Oscar Kristen Anderson-Lopez y Robert Lopez, así como otras canciones coescritas por Germaine Franco y el codirector y guionista Adrian Molina. La voz original de Miguel, Anthony Gonzalez, transportara a los espectadores a la colorida Tierra de los Muertos, para descubrir la verdadera historia de su familia.

About the Movie: Despite his family’s baffling generations-old ban on music, Miguel (voice of Anthony Gonzalez) dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz (voice of Benjamin Bratt). Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead following a mysterious chain of events. Along the way, he meets charming trickster Héctor (voice of Gael García Bernal), and together, they set off on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history. Disney and Pixar’s Coco is directed by Lee Unkrich (Toy Story 3), co-directed by Adrian Molina (story artist Monsters University) and produced by Darla K. Anderson (Toy Story 3).

The Orquesta Folclórica Nacional de México of the Ballet Folclórico Nacional de México by Silvia Lozano, is a musical group that stands out for its ability to fuse pre-Hispanic instruments with instruments from the colonial era, thus creating a unique and distinctive sound that evokes the rich history and culture of Mexico.

This orchestra is made up of expert musicians who are highly trained in the interpretation of a wide variety of genres and styles of Mexican folk music, such as Mariachi music, Jarana music, Son music, and Huapango music, among others. In addition, their repertoire includes songs and instrumental pieces dating from pre-Hispanic and colonial times, which allows them to connect with the country’s historical and cultural roots.

Among the instruments used by the Orquesta Folclórica Nacional de México are traditional pre-Hispanic drums, such as the “Huehuetl “and “Tepobaztli”, as well as flutes, “Ocarinas” and other pre-Hispanic wind instruments. They also use guitars, violins, double basses, and other stringed instruments that date back to colonial times, resulting in a unique and surprising sound combination.

In conjunction with the dancers of the Ballet Folclórico Nacional de México by Silvia Lozano, the Orquesta Folclórica manages to transmit to the public the energy, passion, and diversity of Mexican culture through its music and dance, creating an authentic and exciting experience for all those who have the pleasure of enjoying the show.

Mac Arnold & Plate Full O’ Blues returns to Hendersonville Theatre in September for a command performance! Alabama Blues Hall of Fame member Mac Arnold’s first band included James Brown on piano. He toured and recorded with the Muddy Waters Band and recorded LPs with Otis Spann and John Lee Hooker. Mac moved to Los Angeles and produced Soul Train with his friend Don Cornelius. He even played bass on the Sanford & Son television show when he wasn’t playing bass for Otis Redding and B.B. King. After retiring from show business to become an organic farmer, Mac is back with his own band and a “plate full” of CDs, building a new foundation in blues, soul and funk.

​As part of the Muddy Waters Band, Mac helped shape the electric blues sound that inspired the rock and roll movement of the late 60’s and early 70’s. Regular guests of the band included Eric Clapton, Paul Butterfield, Mike Bloomfield, and Elvin Bishop. The Muddy Waters Band (as a unit) shared the stage with the likes of Howlin’ Wolfe, Elmore James, Jimmy Reed, Junior Wells, Big Joe Williams, and Big Mama Thornton just to name a few. During this time, Mac played on John Lee Hooker’s “live “album, Live at the Café Au Go-Go, as well as Otis Spann’s classic recording “The Blues is Where It’s At”.

Mac later formed the Soul Invaders which backed up many artists, including The Temptations and B. B. King. In the early 70’s, he moved to Los Angeles to work at ABC Television and LAFF RECORDS (Redd Foxx). This led to working on the set of Soul Train from 1971 to 1975 and then working with Bill Withers (“Lean On Me”) before moving back to South Carolina in the 80’s.

​Mac now resides in Pelzer, SC, where at the age of ten he got his first taste of the blues when he learned to play his brother Leroy’s home-made guitar. Going back to his roots. Mac is serving up a mess of Blues with his own band, “Mac Arnold & Plate Full O’ Blues”. The band consists Austin Brashier on guitar and vocals, Max Hightower on harmonica and vocals, Rick Latham on drums, Mike Frost on bass, and Mac Arnold on vocals and Gas Can Guitars.

The Blues Music Awards have taken notice of Mac Arnold over the past few years. Mac was on hand for the 31st annual Blues Music Awards held May 6, 2010 in Memphis. Mac accepted the award for Best Historical Album for his participation in the 1966 recording Muddy Waters – Authorized Bootleg: Live at the Fillmore Auditorium (Geffen Records) The recording was released in 2009.

LEAF isn’t just for kids! Join us in the Mezzanine while you wait for your youth to finish their class or just to hang out!

In this 8-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. With new material every semester, this class can (and should) be taken multiple times. We will end the semester with a taped video performance that will be emailed out to all families!

American Patchwork Quartet (APQ) is on a mission to reclaim the immigrant soul of American Roots Music. With several Grammy awards among its members, APQ brings together diverse backgrounds and talents to reimagine timeless songs from America’s past. By weaving together the music, stories, and experiences of many people, APQ creates a beautiful musical tapestry that draws connections between contemporary American culture and its immigrant roots. Their repertoire includes expert reimaginings of classic songs such as “Wayfaring Stranger,” “Pretty Saro,” and “Beneath the Willow.”

Conceived by Clay Ross, a multi-Grammy award-winning musician known for his work with Ranky Tanky, APQ represents an earnest effort to reconcile traditional Southern roots with decades of experience collaborating in New York City’s jazz and world music scenes. With a sound that blends jazz refinement, country twang, West African hypnotics, and East Asian ornaments, APQ creates a musical patchwork that celebrates both differences and commonalities, serving as a metaphor for a more inclusive nation.

Since launching in 2020, APQ has covered nearly 20,000 miles together. Their impressive credentials include collaborating with prestigious cultural institutions such as Carnegie Hall in NYC, Forbes Center in VA, Weis Center in PA, and Walton Center in AR. The group made their international festival debut in 2022 at the World Expo in UAE. APQ has received both residency and touring grants from South Arts and Mid-Atlantic Arts, and they have been selected as official showcasing artists at Western Arts Alliance, Arts Midwest, NC Arts Market, and Folk Alliance. Their debut album, recorded at Echo Mountain Studio’s in Asheville, NC will be released in Fall of 2023.

Coco Live-to-Film Concert features a screening of the complete Disney Pixar film with Oscar® and Grammy®-winning composer Michael Giacchino’s musical score performed live by the 20-member Orquesta Folclórica Nacional de México. In addition to the original score by Giacchino, “Coco” also features the Oscar®-winning song “Remember Me” by Oscar-winning songwriters Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez and additional songs co-written by Germaine Franco and co-director and screenwriter Adrian Molina. Audiences will travel with Miguel (voice of Anthony Gonzalez) on his extraordinary journey to the colorful Land of the Dead to unlock the real story behind his family’s history set to a live orchestra.

Disney Pixar Coco es un evento especial que no te puedes perder. El evento consta de la proyección de la película, mientras la Orquesta Folclórica Nacional de México interpreta la música  del compositor ganador del Oscar® y el Grammy®, Michael Giacchino, en vivo. Además de la música original de Giacchino, “Coco” también incluye la canción ganadora del Oscar® “Remember Me” de los compositores ganadores del Oscar Kristen Anderson-Lopez y Robert Lopez, así como otras canciones coescritas por Germaine Franco y el codirector y guionista Adrian Molina. La voz original de Miguel, Anthony Gonzalez, transportara a los espectadores a la colorida Tierra de los Muertos, para descubrir la verdadera historia de su familia.

About the Movie: Despite his family’s baffling generations-old ban on music, Miguel (voice of Anthony Gonzalez) dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz (voice of Benjamin Bratt). Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead following a mysterious chain of events. Along the way, he meets charming trickster Héctor (voice of Gael García Bernal), and together, they set off on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history. Disney and Pixar’s Coco is directed by Lee Unkrich (Toy Story 3), co-directed by Adrian Molina (story artist Monsters University) and produced by Darla K. Anderson (Toy Story 3).

The Orquesta Folclórica Nacional de México of the Ballet Folclórico Nacional de México by Silvia Lozano, is a musical group that stands out for its ability to fuse pre-Hispanic instruments with instruments from the colonial era, thus creating a unique and distinctive sound that evokes the rich history and culture of Mexico.

This orchestra is made up of expert musicians who are highly trained in the interpretation of a wide variety of genres and styles of Mexican folk music, such as Mariachi music, Jarana music, Son music, and Huapango music, among others. In addition, their repertoire includes songs and instrumental pieces dating from pre-Hispanic and colonial times, which allows them to connect with the country’s historical and cultural roots.

Among the instruments used by the Orquesta Folclórica Nacional de México are traditional pre-Hispanic drums, such as the “Huehuetl “and “Tepobaztli”, as well as flutes, “Ocarinas” and other pre-Hispanic wind instruments. They also use guitars, violins, double basses, and other stringed instruments that date back to colonial times, resulting in a unique and surprising sound combination.

In conjunction with the dancers of the Ballet Folclórico Nacional de México by Silvia Lozano, the Orquesta Folclórica manages to transmit to the public the energy, passion, and diversity of Mexican culture through its music and dance, creating an authentic and exciting experience for all those who have the pleasure of enjoying the show.