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.

Wednesday, May 12, 2021
Robert’s Totally Rad Trivia
May 12 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
12 Bones Brewing

Totally Rad Trivia invades 12 Bones South every Wednesday evening for two hours of Pop Culture Trivia. Grab a beer, some BBQ and buckle in for some fun and challenging Trivia.
Thursday, May 13, 2021
Auditions for Macbeth/Pericles
May 13 all-day
Online w/ The Montford Park Players

The Montford Park Players announces open auditions for two shows that will be performed in repertory, Shakespeare’s Macbeth and Pericles, both to be directed by Jason Williams. Rehearsals will begin in July, and the shows will run from Friday, September 3rd through to Saturday, October 9th.
All parts are open to any actor 18 and up, all experience levels, ethnic backgrounds, and gender identities. Individuals/families/couples/friends who are quarantining together are encouraged to audition. The same cast will perform both plays on alternating nights.
Prospective actors and technicians should review the COVID-19 protocols which can be found at https://www.montfordparkplayers.org/…/MPP-ACTOR-SAFETY…. Actors and technicians recruited for this production will be required to abide by all safety protocols as contained in the document. Protocols are, of course, subject to change.
To audition:
1) fill out and submit the audition form located at https://forms.gle/36VBKUfD1vEfvF5w6. Headshots and resumes are appreciated, but not required.
2) Record an audition video of a 1-2 min. video of any Shakespeare of their choosing. It can be a soliloquy, monologue, sonnet or scene. It doesn’t have to be memorized.
Upload the video here: https://driveuploader.com/upload/6XaW3rROQN/ (Be sure and name the video with your name and the word “PericlesMacbeth”).
3) Virtual Auditions will be accepted until midnight May 30th.
Callbacks will be by invitation and will take place at a time to be determined. If an actor has already submitted a resume and Shakespeare video, they do not need to resubmit to be considered.
We’re also looking for stage managers for both shows, and a costume designer for MacBeth. Interested persons should email the director, Jason Williams, at [email protected].
Restaurant Revitalization Fund: What to Expect Next
May 13 all-day
Online w/ Small Business Administration
As registration for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund opens, the SBA has issued guidance on what to expect next.
What to expect next:
  1. As outlined by Congress, the SBA will focus their reviews on the priority applications that have been submitted. Applicants who have submitted a non-priority application will find their applications remain in a Review status while the priority applications are processed during the first 21 days. Applicants in this status should not anticipate any outreach from the SBA during this period.
  2. Following a successful application submission, all applications will first enter a stage called “IRS verification”. This process may take up to seven days and allows the SBA to validate your application submission.
  3. If you have questions about the award calculation, see the program guide, pages 7–9.
  4. The 4506T form is signed with your application during the e-sign process. You do not need to submit an additional 4506T.
  5. If you are entering a state in the address section(s) use the abbreviation in capital letters (e.g., PA, TX, ME, WA, etc.).
  6. For application support, you may submit a message using the platform inbox. For quick answers, this may be your best route.
As a reminder, per federal award program guidelines that require the same and equal information be provided to each applicant, SBA’s team members are limited on responses they can provide to applicants, including specific questions regarding RRF eligibility, potential award amount, and other detailed information.
The Magnetic Theatre: script submissions for One Act Play Festival
May 13 all-day
Online w/ MagneticTheatre

The One Act Festival is scheduled for June 11-26, 2021. Submissions are free and open to all local playwrights with plays 5-15 minutes long!

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

  • Please limit your cast to a maximum of six actors

  • Scripts with minimal set, costume and prop requirements are preferred

  • We are not considering Theatre for Young Audiences at this time

  • We will not accept Screenplays or Musicals at this time

The Magnetic Theatre tends to produce plays that have not received major/recent productions in the Asheville area. We respond primarily to plays with a sure command of language, that are accessible to a diverse and discerning audience, and clear dramatic action that truly uses the resources of live theater.

If you wish to submit a play for consideration, please include a complete manuscript, bio, resume, and any other supporting materials (e.g. reviews) that might help pique our interest in you and your work.

Work at Tanglewood Theatre Summer Camp
May 13 all-day
online w/ Asheville Community Theatre

Work at Tanglewood!

Photo of 6 teacher assistants from past session of Tanglewood Summer Camp
Want to work at Tanglewood this summer? We’re looking for Instructors, Teacher Assistants, Junior Teacher Assistants, and Stage Managers! More information can be found in each application link, and those can all be found HERE!
Women’s Leadership Breakfast
May 13 @ 7:30 am – 9:00 am
Kenmure Country Club

This breakfast organized by the ATHENA of Henderson County Award committee is a fantastic opportunity to explore your own development as a leader while encouraging future leaders to explore their potential!

The program will feature our 2020 ATHENA Award recipient, Mayor Barbara Volk for a Town Hall style discussion on her experience with leadership and mentorship.

There will be a virtual attendance option for this event. 

Established leaders are encouraged to invite an emerging leader to attend this event. Conversations will happen, lives will be touched, leaders will be inspired, and friendships will be formed.

No matter your level of professional/personal development, this event allows the space and time for introspection – an opportunity to celebrate the gifts we have, and the chance to learn more about the skills we would like to grow, all structured around building a supportive network and community.  We hope you can join us!

*In-person attendees will be required to wear masks when not dining, in accordance with the state mask mandate

Event Sponsors:
YPA Social at Ben’s Tune Up
May 13 @ 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Ben's Tune Up

Join us on Thursday, May 13th for our monthly YPA Social!

This month we will be meeting at Ben’s Tune Up on South Slope in Downtown Asheville. Ben’s Tune Up is a sake brewery located in a converted auto shop with an Asian fusion restaurant and beer garden. This also have non-sake options and a full bar.

“Born in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Ben’s American Sake has crafted a fresh new take on an ancient beverage: Sake! Our sake is unabashedly American. We aim to remove any pretension from the experience of serving and drinking this refined spirit. Our sake is easy to approach, with new fruit infusions, light carbonation, and packaged in friendly, familiar bottles and cans. Nothing could be more American than Ben’s!”- Ben’s American Sake

What we’re about

Young Professionals of Asheville (YPA) (http://www.ypasheville.org/) connects young adults in order to better lead and serve the greater Asheville community. YPA welcomes young professionals (ages 21 – 40) living in WNC to join us for events focused on professional development, fostering connection and serving our community.

LINK IS NOW LIVE TO TO BECOME A YPA MEMBER FOR THE 2020-2021 YEAR
https://ashevillenccoc.wliinc24.com/events/2020-2021-Young-Professionals-of-Asheville-Membership-7026/details?fbclid=IwAR3-T31Ak_qIeATULaM1p-YmTnB6TcASvK8GEdhGZc2wEDNVYrtK-9ZN27w

We are happy to announce we will offering YPA membership for the 2020-2021 year for HALF OFF! For the entire month of June, if you sign up to be a YPA member, it will only cost $25! We recognize the membership experience has been a little different lately and we’re happy to still have the ability to connect and provide value to our members through our virtual experiences. We hope we will be back to safe, in-person events soon and hope the reduced cost of membership helps those that may have been negatively affected in these tough times.

If you have any questions or would like more information, don’t hesitate to reach out to me!
Mackenzie HeslerYPA Co-Membership Chair

Open mic Come sing, play, and support fellow artists
May 13 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
White Horse Black Mountain
Friday, May 14, 2021
Auditions for Macbeth/Pericles
May 14 all-day
Online w/ The Montford Park Players

The Montford Park Players announces open auditions for two shows that will be performed in repertory, Shakespeare’s Macbeth and Pericles, both to be directed by Jason Williams. Rehearsals will begin in July, and the shows will run from Friday, September 3rd through to Saturday, October 9th.
All parts are open to any actor 18 and up, all experience levels, ethnic backgrounds, and gender identities. Individuals/families/couples/friends who are quarantining together are encouraged to audition. The same cast will perform both plays on alternating nights.
Prospective actors and technicians should review the COVID-19 protocols which can be found at https://www.montfordparkplayers.org/…/MPP-ACTOR-SAFETY…. Actors and technicians recruited for this production will be required to abide by all safety protocols as contained in the document. Protocols are, of course, subject to change.
To audition:
1) fill out and submit the audition form located at https://forms.gle/36VBKUfD1vEfvF5w6. Headshots and resumes are appreciated, but not required.
2) Record an audition video of a 1-2 min. video of any Shakespeare of their choosing. It can be a soliloquy, monologue, sonnet or scene. It doesn’t have to be memorized.
Upload the video here: https://driveuploader.com/upload/6XaW3rROQN/ (Be sure and name the video with your name and the word “PericlesMacbeth”).
3) Virtual Auditions will be accepted until midnight May 30th.
Callbacks will be by invitation and will take place at a time to be determined. If an actor has already submitted a resume and Shakespeare video, they do not need to resubmit to be considered.
We’re also looking for stage managers for both shows, and a costume designer for MacBeth. Interested persons should email the director, Jason Williams, at [email protected].
CONSERVATORY Rising 8th – 12th Grades Scholarship Available
May 14 all-day
Online w/ Flat Rock Playhouse
One young woman singing on stage
              with three young men. HCPS Teens. Flat Rock Playhouse
              announces a new summer scholarship for teens in Henderson
              County Public Schools.

Announcing an all-new scholarship for exemplary performing arts teens in Henderson County! Selected students will be invited to attend the following Studio 52 summer program with a full scholarship:

CONSERVATORY

Rising 8th – 12th Grades

July 5 – 16, M-F, 9 AM – 2 PM

Learn from industry professionals in this two-week, pre-professional program blending acting & music theatre training as teens hone their skills and find their voice.

Qualified Student Nominees Must:

– Be enrolled in HCPS as a rising 8th-12th grade student for the 2021-2022 school year.

– Exhibit a passion for theatre, music, or dance.

– Serve as a leader within their drama, dance, or music classes at school.

– Provide the name and contact of a HCPS teacher who can serve as a reference.

Need-based scholarships are still available for all Studio 52 Summer Camps. Applications for need-based scholarships can be found on the Studio 52 website. All scholarship applications are due June 1.

Restaurant Revitalization Fund: What to Expect Next
May 14 all-day
Online w/ Small Business Administration
As registration for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund opens, the SBA has issued guidance on what to expect next.
What to expect next:
  1. As outlined by Congress, the SBA will focus their reviews on the priority applications that have been submitted. Applicants who have submitted a non-priority application will find their applications remain in a Review status while the priority applications are processed during the first 21 days. Applicants in this status should not anticipate any outreach from the SBA during this period.
  2. Following a successful application submission, all applications will first enter a stage called “IRS verification”. This process may take up to seven days and allows the SBA to validate your application submission.
  3. If you have questions about the award calculation, see the program guide, pages 7–9.
  4. The 4506T form is signed with your application during the e-sign process. You do not need to submit an additional 4506T.
  5. If you are entering a state in the address section(s) use the abbreviation in capital letters (e.g., PA, TX, ME, WA, etc.).
  6. For application support, you may submit a message using the platform inbox. For quick answers, this may be your best route.
As a reminder, per federal award program guidelines that require the same and equal information be provided to each applicant, SBA’s team members are limited on responses they can provide to applicants, including specific questions regarding RRF eligibility, potential award amount, and other detailed information.
The Magnetic Theatre: script submissions for One Act Play Festival
May 14 all-day
Online w/ MagneticTheatre

The One Act Festival is scheduled for June 11-26, 2021. Submissions are free and open to all local playwrights with plays 5-15 minutes long!

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

  • Please limit your cast to a maximum of six actors

  • Scripts with minimal set, costume and prop requirements are preferred

  • We are not considering Theatre for Young Audiences at this time

  • We will not accept Screenplays or Musicals at this time

The Magnetic Theatre tends to produce plays that have not received major/recent productions in the Asheville area. We respond primarily to plays with a sure command of language, that are accessible to a diverse and discerning audience, and clear dramatic action that truly uses the resources of live theater.

If you wish to submit a play for consideration, please include a complete manuscript, bio, resume, and any other supporting materials (e.g. reviews) that might help pique our interest in you and your work.

Work at Tanglewood Theatre Summer Camp
May 14 all-day
online w/ Asheville Community Theatre

Work at Tanglewood!

Photo of 6 teacher assistants from past session of Tanglewood Summer Camp
Want to work at Tanglewood this summer? We’re looking for Instructors, Teacher Assistants, Junior Teacher Assistants, and Stage Managers! More information can be found in each application link, and those can all be found HERE!
Brunch B’yahad Virtual
May 14 @ 10:30 am – 11:30 am
Online w/ Asheville Jewish Community Center

Brunch B’Yahad is now available through Zoom meeting here.   

Join new and old friends for light brunch, socialization and lively discussion.  Featured guest speakers, and relevant cultural and timely topics will fill our minds.

Son’s of Ralph
May 14 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Jack of the Wood

The Sons of Ralph are the sons of Bluegrass pioneer Ralph Lewis. In the heart of WNC, these masters of Bluegrass are “The Sons of Ralph”. Martin and Don Lewis, Cousin Steve Moseley, and the “other brother” Ozzie Orengo, Jr. have been playing and singing the unique style of bluegrass music since Ralph’s upbringing in Madison County.

Into the Woods, Jr.
May 14 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Asheville Performing Arts Academy

Into the Woods, Jr. Presented by the Company May 14-16, 2021

Be careful what you wish for, as Stephen Sondheim’s and James Lapine’s cockeyed fairytale comes to life in this adaptation of their groundbreaking, Tony Award-winning musical. Into the Woods JR. features all of your favorite characters — Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack (and his beanstalk) and the Witch — in this lyrically rich retelling of classic Brothers Grimm fables.

The musical centers on a baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King’s festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse, and wind up changed forever.

With unforgettable roles, minimal dancing and no chorus, Into the Woods JR. showcases a medium-sized ensemble of talented singers and actors. The sophisticated score has been adapted to make it more accessible to young performers.

Zoe + Cloyd
May 14 @ 7:00 pm
Isis Music Hall

Hailing from opposite ends of the Appalachian mountains, Zoe & Cloyd is renowned fiddler and vocalist Natalya Zoe Weinstein and award-winning bluegrass songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and vocalist John Cloyd Miller. With soaring harmonies and heartfelt songs, the pair seamlessly combine original bluegrass, klezmer, old-time and folk with sincerity and zeal. Zoe & Cloyd will be joined by master musicians, Kevin Kehrberg on bass and Bennett Sullivan on banjo.

Come enjoy an evening of live music, food and drinks at the Isis Music Hall. Reservations are highly recommended.

This concert will also be Live Streamed from the Isis Music Hall Facebook Page

Montford Park Players: A Comedy of Errors
May 14 @ 7:30 pm
Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre

A Comedy of Errors – May 7 – 22

by W. Shakespeare

Slapstick and farce abound in one of the Bard’s early plays. See where he honed his penchant for puns, word play and mistaken identities.

LIVE: Chuck Brodsky
May 14 @ 8:00 pm
White Horse Black Mountain
Saturday, May 15, 2021
Auditions for Macbeth/Pericles
May 15 all-day
Online w/ The Montford Park Players

The Montford Park Players announces open auditions for two shows that will be performed in repertory, Shakespeare’s Macbeth and Pericles, both to be directed by Jason Williams. Rehearsals will begin in July, and the shows will run from Friday, September 3rd through to Saturday, October 9th.
All parts are open to any actor 18 and up, all experience levels, ethnic backgrounds, and gender identities. Individuals/families/couples/friends who are quarantining together are encouraged to audition. The same cast will perform both plays on alternating nights.
Prospective actors and technicians should review the COVID-19 protocols which can be found at https://www.montfordparkplayers.org/…/MPP-ACTOR-SAFETY…. Actors and technicians recruited for this production will be required to abide by all safety protocols as contained in the document. Protocols are, of course, subject to change.
To audition:
1) fill out and submit the audition form located at https://forms.gle/36VBKUfD1vEfvF5w6. Headshots and resumes are appreciated, but not required.
2) Record an audition video of a 1-2 min. video of any Shakespeare of their choosing. It can be a soliloquy, monologue, sonnet or scene. It doesn’t have to be memorized.
Upload the video here: https://driveuploader.com/upload/6XaW3rROQN/ (Be sure and name the video with your name and the word “PericlesMacbeth”).
3) Virtual Auditions will be accepted until midnight May 30th.
Callbacks will be by invitation and will take place at a time to be determined. If an actor has already submitted a resume and Shakespeare video, they do not need to resubmit to be considered.
We’re also looking for stage managers for both shows, and a costume designer for MacBeth. Interested persons should email the director, Jason Williams, at [email protected].
CONSERVATORY Rising 8th – 12th Grades Scholarship Available
May 15 all-day
Online w/ Flat Rock Playhouse
One young woman singing on stage
              with three young men. HCPS Teens. Flat Rock Playhouse
              announces a new summer scholarship for teens in Henderson
              County Public Schools.

Announcing an all-new scholarship for exemplary performing arts teens in Henderson County! Selected students will be invited to attend the following Studio 52 summer program with a full scholarship:

CONSERVATORY

Rising 8th – 12th Grades

July 5 – 16, M-F, 9 AM – 2 PM

Learn from industry professionals in this two-week, pre-professional program blending acting & music theatre training as teens hone their skills and find their voice.

Qualified Student Nominees Must:

– Be enrolled in HCPS as a rising 8th-12th grade student for the 2021-2022 school year.

– Exhibit a passion for theatre, music, or dance.

– Serve as a leader within their drama, dance, or music classes at school.

– Provide the name and contact of a HCPS teacher who can serve as a reference.

Need-based scholarships are still available for all Studio 52 Summer Camps. Applications for need-based scholarships can be found on the Studio 52 website. All scholarship applications are due June 1.

The Magnetic Theatre: script submissions for One Act Play Festival
May 15 all-day
Online w/ MagneticTheatre

The One Act Festival is scheduled for June 11-26, 2021. Submissions are free and open to all local playwrights with plays 5-15 minutes long!

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

  • Please limit your cast to a maximum of six actors

  • Scripts with minimal set, costume and prop requirements are preferred

  • We are not considering Theatre for Young Audiences at this time

  • We will not accept Screenplays or Musicals at this time

The Magnetic Theatre tends to produce plays that have not received major/recent productions in the Asheville area. We respond primarily to plays with a sure command of language, that are accessible to a diverse and discerning audience, and clear dramatic action that truly uses the resources of live theater.

If you wish to submit a play for consideration, please include a complete manuscript, bio, resume, and any other supporting materials (e.g. reviews) that might help pique our interest in you and your work.

Work at Tanglewood Theatre Summer Camp
May 15 all-day
online w/ Asheville Community Theatre

Work at Tanglewood!

Photo of 6 teacher assistants from past session of Tanglewood Summer Camp
Want to work at Tanglewood this summer? We’re looking for Instructors, Teacher Assistants, Junior Teacher Assistants, and Stage Managers! More information can be found in each application link, and those can all be found HERE!
Grab Brunch at River’s End
May 15 @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
River’s End Restaurant

River's End Restaurant exterior

River’s End Restaurant is an iconic spot for locals and visitors to Bryson City. Enjoy spectacular views of the gorge, with paddlers passing through as they complete their Nantahala River Rafting trip. Stop in for year-round lunch and dinner, with weekend brunch during the summer season, and choose from a wide range of appetizing entrees, burgers, salads, pizza, and sandwiches. Hang out for a while and enjoy a large selection of signature cocktails, wine, and beer, including local favorites.

In River’s End Restaurant, every seat has a view of the river! Enjoy music by the river and views of paddlers passing through as they complete their Nantahala River Rafting trip. Join our waitlist online to reserve a table or order online and grab your meal to go, for a sunny lunch right by the river!

Bold Souls Morning Yoga
May 15 @ 9:45 am – 10:45 am
Bold Rock Hard Cider (Mills River, NC)

Bring your yoga mats to Bold Rock for a mindful way to begin your Saturday! Get your “ohm” on with a local trainer and yoga instructor as they lead a fun and playful yoga session. This class is open to all levels of yoga experience for a $5 suggested donation!
After yoga, feel free to have a cider or some delicious lunch from the food truck.
Outdoor Mainstage: In The Middle of Nowhere
May 15 @ 2:00 pm
The Magnetic Theatre

MAINSTAGE OUTDOORS

IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE

By Bret Murphy
Directed by Katie Jones

Cynthia Scott is a retired art professor who escapes to the Black Mountains of North Carolina after a harrowing experience in her “previous” life. Despite her fiercely independent nature, she eventually forms a relationship with Del, a young man who has recently been released from prison. They challenge each other in unexpected ways… but the question remains, will either of them accept forgiveness?

May 1-16, 2021
Saturdays at 2pm and 6pm
Sundays at 2pm

Into the Woods, Jr.
May 15 @ 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Asheville Performing Arts Academy

Into the Woods, Jr. Presented by the Company May 14-16, 2021

Be careful what you wish for, as Stephen Sondheim’s and James Lapine’s cockeyed fairytale comes to life in this adaptation of their groundbreaking, Tony Award-winning musical. Into the Woods JR. features all of your favorite characters — Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack (and his beanstalk) and the Witch — in this lyrically rich retelling of classic Brothers Grimm fables.

The musical centers on a baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King’s festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse, and wind up changed forever.

With unforgettable roles, minimal dancing and no chorus, Into the Woods JR. showcases a medium-sized ensemble of talented singers and actors. The sophisticated score has been adapted to make it more accessible to young performers.

Outdoor Mainstage: In The Middle of Nowhere
May 15 @ 6:00 pm
The Magnetic Theatre

MAINSTAGE OUTDOORS

IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE

By Bret Murphy
Directed by Katie Jones

Cynthia Scott is a retired art professor who escapes to the Black Mountains of North Carolina after a harrowing experience in her “previous” life. Despite her fiercely independent nature, she eventually forms a relationship with Del, a young man who has recently been released from prison. They challenge each other in unexpected ways… but the question remains, will either of them accept forgiveness?

May 1-16, 2021
Saturdays at 2pm and 6pm
Sundays at 2pm

Taylor Martin and Song Dogs
May 15 @ 7:00 pm
Isis Music Hall

One of Western North Carolina’s most respected songwriters backed by his ever revolving cast of virtuoso musicians.  From folk to bluegrass through blues and country Taylor’s original compositions are well mixed with an obscure selections of the American songbook.

Come enjoy an evening of live music, food and drinks at the Isis Music Hall. Reservations are highly recommended.

Montford Park Players: A Comedy of Errors
May 15 @ 7:30 pm
Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre

A Comedy of Errors – May 7 – 22

by W. Shakespeare

Slapstick and farce abound in one of the Bard’s early plays. See where he honed his penchant for puns, word play and mistaken identities.