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.

Sunday, October 15, 2023
How Much Does Business Coaching Cost?
Oct 15 @ 12:30 pm – 1:15 pm
online
Virtual! On Zoom!

Have you ever wondered about hiring a Business Coach but don’t know where to start?  Has the cost of coaching seemed like one of the great mysteries you’d like to see demystified?  Here’s your opportunity!!!  ActionCOACH Business Growth Partners is presenting a Learn Over Lunch virtual webinar to give you all the answers you want.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN DURING THE 40-MINUTE WEBINAR

  • The variety of programs we offer to meet the needs of businesses of every size
  • The cost of working with our Expert Team
  • Testimony from past and present coaching clients
A Case for the Existence of God
Oct 15 @ 2:00 pm
NC Stage Co.

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

Death of a Salesman
Oct 15 @ 2:00 pm
HART Theatre
By Arthur Miller
On the Steve Lloyd Stage
Directed by Doug Savitt

A small man can be just as exhausted as a great man.

Arthur Miller’s Pulitzer-Prize winning American classic is a poignant look at the life of everyman Willy Loman, complete with grand hopes and heartbreaking missteps. Willy is on a quest for the American Dream, and wants more than anything for his family to achieve it alongside him. But their own visions of that dream – and their perceptions of who Willy really is beyond his façade – don’t necessarily match up with his reality. Through a series of tragic soul-searching revelations of the life he has lived with his wife, his sons, and his business associates, we discover how his quest for the “American Dream” kept him blind to the people who truly loved him. A thrilling work of deep and revealing beauty that remains one of the most profound classic dramas of the American Theatre.

Suitable for all audiences. Contains heavy subject matter.

MacBeth
Oct 15 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

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.

Young Frankenstein
Oct 15 @ 3:00 pm
Hendersonville Theatre

Book by Mel Brooks
Music and Lyrics by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan
Original Direction & Choreography by Susan Stroman
Presented through special arrangement with Musical Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
www.mtishows.com

Director: Elizabeth DeVault 

Approximate Run Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Rating: PG-13 due to adult humor and content

It’s alive! The electrifying adaptation of Mel Brooks’ monstrously funny film will leave you in stitches. Grandson of the infamous Victor Frankenstein, Frederick Frankenstein (pronounced “Fronk-en-steen”) inherits his family’s estate in Transylvania. With the help of a hunchbacked sidekick, Igor (pronounced “Eye-gore”), and a leggy lab assistant, Inga (pronounced normally), Dr. Frankenstein aims to fulfill his grandfather’s legacy by bringing a corpse back to life. Eventually, of course, the monster escapes and hilarity continuously abounds. With such memorable tunes as “The Transylvania Mania,” “He Vas My Boyfriend” and “Puttin’ on the Ritz,” Young Frankenstein is scientifically proven, monstrously good entertainment.

THE SPLATTER PLAY
Oct 15 @ 4:00 pm
The Magnetic Theatre

THE SPLATTER PLAY
By Abby Auman
Directed by Jessica Johnson

It’s the day of the open house for Tina’s childhood home, which also happens to be her deceased mother’s evil laboratory. Determined to turn the terrors of the lab into selling points, Tina and her optimistic realtor parade a cast of unsavory potential buyers through the home, tormented all the while by the resident creepies and crawlies who aren’t quite as ready to move on as Tina would hope. *Note: there will be blood, so much blood.

The Splatter Play
Oct 15 @ 4:00 pm
The Magnetic Theatre

By Abby Auman
Directed by Jessica Johnson

It’s the day of the open house for Tina’s childhood home, which also happens to be her deceased mother’s evil laboratory. Determined to turn the terrors of the lab into selling points, Tina and her optimistic realtor parade a cast of unsavory potential buyers through the home, tormented all the while by the resident creepies and crawlies who aren’t quite as ready to move on as Tina would hope. *Note: this is an immersive experience and there will be blood, so much blood.

**Content notification: language; violence; blood; gore; strobe light effects; audience-immersive scenes that may include audience members being splattered with stage blood and gore.

The Nat-O-Ween Spooktacular
Oct 15 @ 7:30 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

The Nat-O-Ween Spooktacular returns! This time spookier than ever. Join us in our Black Box Theater to experience the one-and-only Nat Zegree while sitting on the stage, just a few feet away from his dazzling performance. Nat Zegree will take you on a spooky musical adventure that is sure to delight and entertain. Tickets for this fundraising event are 100% tax-deductible and go directly to support Flat Rock Playhouse’s production and operating expenses. ONE NIGHT ONLY, don’t wait! Costumes are welcome!!

Monday, October 16, 2023
Asheville Community Theatre Youth Production Classes
Oct 16 all-day
Asheville Community Theatre

What is a Youth Production?

An ACT Youth Production is an immersive performance workshop that is specially tailored for young artists who aspire to learn and grow in the performing arts. This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity for students to undergo a comprehensive exploration of the theatrical process. Starting with auditions, they are taught how to prepare and present their best selves, and throughout the rehearsal process, students collaborate with the cast in a dynamic and supportive environment. A distinctive feature of this program is the inclusion of choreography and voice training sessions that enable students to discover and improve their vocal prowess and dancing abilities, thus turning them into well-rounded performers. Every aspect is designed to nurture creativity, foster teamwork, and instill a genuine love for theatre. All students are encouraged to participate, regardless of their previous experience or exposure to theatre.

Interested in Technical Theatre classes?

If you’re interested in getting hands-on experience with technical theatre, our Tech & Run Crew class is tailored just for you. Whether you’re a beginner with a budding interest or a seasoned tech enthusiast aiming to sharpen your skills, you will get the opportunity to work on real productions in an education environment.

Tuesday, October 17, 2023
Flyin’ West Auditions
Oct 17 all-day
Asheville Community Theatre--online

Flyin’ West

Performance Dates: February 9-25, 2024
Auditions: October 17 & 24, 2023
Rehearsals: November 20, 2023
Directed by: Candace Taylor

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

Audition Form: These auditions will be held over Zoom. Please click HERE to fill out your audition form and select the day and time you would like to audition.

Audition Slides: Please choose the role that you feel most suited for and come to your audition prepared to perform a reading for that role. You may choose more than one role to prepare. Click HERE to view the audition slides.

Life Stories: A Memoir Writing Workshop
Oct 17 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
North Asheville Library

This workshop is for anyone who wants to bring their real-life stories to the page, whether for publication or simply to record stories for family and friends. Through focused prompts, we will revisit and write about important moments from our lives. Our session will include timed writing exercises, group discussions, and an opportunity to read one’s work aloud in a supportive setting. Please bring paper and a writing implement and come ready to write!

Space is limited, so registration is required.

Lori Horvitz’ first collection of memoir-essays, The Girls of Usually, won the 2016 Gold Medal IPPY Book Award in Autobiography/Memoir. Her creative nonfiction has appeared in a variety of journals including Hobart, South Dakota Review, The New York Times, The Guardian, and Hotel Amerika. Professor of English at UNC Asheville, Horvitz has been awarded fellowships from Yaddo, Cottages at Hedgebrook, VCCA, Ragdale, Blue Mountain Center, and Brush Creek. She holds a Ph.D. in English from SUNY Albany, and an MFA in Creative Writing from Brooklyn College.

Carolina Ballet Theatre: GHOSTS
Oct 17 @ 9:54 pm – 10:54 pm
Gunter Theatre

The Greenville-centric story opens on Halloween night. While most families make their rounds through the well-known neighborhoods, a handful of kids break off from the group. Hoping to reveal an unspoken Greenville secret, they head to an abandoned mansion along the Reedy River. They knock on the door, and after no answer, a brave little girl says, “Let’s go!” and pushes it open. Lightning flashes to reveal a silhouette of a couple who dance a pas de deux to a string quartet medley of several Michael Jackson-inspired tunes. Music By Michael Jackson and Choreography by Hernan Justo.

Warning
Strob lighting and other intense lighting will be used during this show.

Wednesday, October 18, 2023
Asheville Community Theatre Youth Production Classes
Oct 18 all-day
Asheville Community Theatre

What is a Youth Production?

An ACT Youth Production is an immersive performance workshop that is specially tailored for young artists who aspire to learn and grow in the performing arts. This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity for students to undergo a comprehensive exploration of the theatrical process. Starting with auditions, they are taught how to prepare and present their best selves, and throughout the rehearsal process, students collaborate with the cast in a dynamic and supportive environment. A distinctive feature of this program is the inclusion of choreography and voice training sessions that enable students to discover and improve their vocal prowess and dancing abilities, thus turning them into well-rounded performers. Every aspect is designed to nurture creativity, foster teamwork, and instill a genuine love for theatre. All students are encouraged to participate, regardless of their previous experience or exposure to theatre.

Interested in Technical Theatre classes?

If you’re interested in getting hands-on experience with technical theatre, our Tech & Run Crew class is tailored just for you. Whether you’re a beginner with a budding interest or a seasoned tech enthusiast aiming to sharpen your skills, you will get the opportunity to work on real productions in an education environment.

Asheville Performing Arts Academy Programs 2023-2024 Season
Oct 18 all-day
Asheville Performing Arts Academy

2023-2024 Season

The Asheville Performing Arts Academy facilitates a life-long appreciation and advocacy of the arts by providing a loving community where students discover the tools needed to navigate life on and off the stage.

Mission

The Asheville Performing Arts Academy is a school based on unlimited opportunities for students to explore their interests in music, dance, and drama.  We foster a love and appreciation for the arts through student-teacher relationships, which encourage and help you to excel at your dream. We offer high quality instruction and educational experiences because we are committed to the art of teaching and the teaching of the arts.  It is our hope to build art and awareness in the community and provide a home for families to pursue their dreams.

With classes for students of all ages, the Asheville Performing Arts Academy is your place to discover the love of music, drama, and dance in your life.

Asheville Performing Arts Academy… where the arts come alive!

November 10-12, 2023

An APAA Cabaret (Company)

 

December 8-10, 2023

Oliver, Jr. (Prep)

 

December 15-17, 2023

Oliver, Jr. (Community)

February 2-4, 2024

Mean Girls, Jr.

(Middle School Community)

 

February 9-11, 2024

Mean Girls HS Version

(High School Community)

 

March/April 2024

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Homeschool Academy)

April 25-28, 2024

Little Shop of Horros (Company)

 

May 10-12, 2024

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. (Prep)

 

May 17-19, 2024

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. (Community)

A Case for the Existence of God
Oct 18 @ 7:30 pm
NC Stage Co.

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

MacBeth
Oct 18 @ 7:30 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

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.

Thursday, October 19, 2023
Asheville Performing Arts Academy Programs 2023-2024 Season
Oct 19 all-day
Asheville Performing Arts Academy

2023-2024 Season

The Asheville Performing Arts Academy facilitates a life-long appreciation and advocacy of the arts by providing a loving community where students discover the tools needed to navigate life on and off the stage.

Mission

The Asheville Performing Arts Academy is a school based on unlimited opportunities for students to explore their interests in music, dance, and drama.  We foster a love and appreciation for the arts through student-teacher relationships, which encourage and help you to excel at your dream. We offer high quality instruction and educational experiences because we are committed to the art of teaching and the teaching of the arts.  It is our hope to build art and awareness in the community and provide a home for families to pursue their dreams.

With classes for students of all ages, the Asheville Performing Arts Academy is your place to discover the love of music, drama, and dance in your life.

Asheville Performing Arts Academy… where the arts come alive!

November 10-12, 2023

An APAA Cabaret (Company)

 

December 8-10, 2023

Oliver, Jr. (Prep)

 

December 15-17, 2023

Oliver, Jr. (Community)

February 2-4, 2024

Mean Girls, Jr.

(Middle School Community)

 

February 9-11, 2024

Mean Girls HS Version

(High School Community)

 

March/April 2024

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Homeschool Academy)

April 25-28, 2024

Little Shop of Horros (Company)

 

May 10-12, 2024

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. (Prep)

 

May 17-19, 2024

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. (Community)

MacBeth
Oct 19 @ 2:00 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

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.

“Ben + Angela” by David Brendan Hopes
Oct 19 @ 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
BeBe Theatre

The Sublime Theater presents the world premiere of David Brendan Hopes’ “Ben & Angela,” starring Scott Fisher & Kirby Gibson, directed by Steven Samuels. “No matter how long people have been doing it, marriage remains a mystery. In “Ben & Angela,” a young couple follow the twisty, sometimes hilarious, road from first infatuation through the kinks and perils of living life together for the long haul. They each know the other’s weakness. They each know each other’s strength. They know what it will look like when it is perfect.”

A Case for the Existence of God
Oct 19 @ 7:30 pm
NC Stage Co.

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
Oct 19 @ 7:30 pm
Carol Belk Theatre - UNCA Campus

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 

MacBeth
Oct 19 @ 7:30 pm
Flat Rock Playhouse

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.

THE SPLATTER PLAY
Oct 19 @ 7:30 pm
The Magnetic Theatre

THE SPLATTER PLAY
By Abby Auman
Directed by Jessica Johnson

It’s the day of the open house for Tina’s childhood home, which also happens to be her deceased mother’s evil laboratory. Determined to turn the terrors of the lab into selling points, Tina and her optimistic realtor parade a cast of unsavory potential buyers through the home, tormented all the while by the resident creepies and crawlies who aren’t quite as ready to move on as Tina would hope. *Note: there will be blood, so much blood.

Friday, October 20, 2023
Asheville Community Theatre Youth Production Classes
Oct 20 all-day
Asheville Community Theatre

What is a Youth Production?

An ACT Youth Production is an immersive performance workshop that is specially tailored for young artists who aspire to learn and grow in the performing arts. This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity for students to undergo a comprehensive exploration of the theatrical process. Starting with auditions, they are taught how to prepare and present their best selves, and throughout the rehearsal process, students collaborate with the cast in a dynamic and supportive environment. A distinctive feature of this program is the inclusion of choreography and voice training sessions that enable students to discover and improve their vocal prowess and dancing abilities, thus turning them into well-rounded performers. Every aspect is designed to nurture creativity, foster teamwork, and instill a genuine love for theatre. All students are encouraged to participate, regardless of their previous experience or exposure to theatre.

Interested in Technical Theatre classes?

If you’re interested in getting hands-on experience with technical theatre, our Tech & Run Crew class is tailored just for you. Whether you’re a beginner with a budding interest or a seasoned tech enthusiast aiming to sharpen your skills, you will get the opportunity to work on real productions in an education environment.

Asheville Performing Arts Academy Programs 2023-2024 Season
Oct 20 all-day
Asheville Performing Arts Academy

2023-2024 Season

The Asheville Performing Arts Academy facilitates a life-long appreciation and advocacy of the arts by providing a loving community where students discover the tools needed to navigate life on and off the stage.

Mission

The Asheville Performing Arts Academy is a school based on unlimited opportunities for students to explore their interests in music, dance, and drama.  We foster a love and appreciation for the arts through student-teacher relationships, which encourage and help you to excel at your dream. We offer high quality instruction and educational experiences because we are committed to the art of teaching and the teaching of the arts.  It is our hope to build art and awareness in the community and provide a home for families to pursue their dreams.

With classes for students of all ages, the Asheville Performing Arts Academy is your place to discover the love of music, drama, and dance in your life.

Asheville Performing Arts Academy… where the arts come alive!

November 10-12, 2023

An APAA Cabaret (Company)

 

December 8-10, 2023

Oliver, Jr. (Prep)

 

December 15-17, 2023

Oliver, Jr. (Community)

February 2-4, 2024

Mean Girls, Jr.

(Middle School Community)

 

February 9-11, 2024

Mean Girls HS Version

(High School Community)

 

March/April 2024

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Homeschool Academy)

April 25-28, 2024

Little Shop of Horros (Company)

 

May 10-12, 2024

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. (Prep)

 

May 17-19, 2024

Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. (Community)

The Acting Company presents ODYSSEY: Student Series
Oct 20 @ 10:00 am – 11:40 am
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Embark on an epic journey of adventure, heroism and drama in this stunning theatrical work based on Homer’s timeless epic poem. Recommended for grades 7-12.

The Student Series is open to school groups, homeschoolers, community groups and families.

A Case for the Existence of God
Oct 20 @ 2:00 pm
NC Stage Co.

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

“Romeo + Juliet: In Memoriam”
Oct 20 @ 7:00 pm
Attic Salt Theater

A groundbreaking reimagining of William Shakespeare’s beloved tragedy, “Romeo and Juliet: In Memoriam” is poised to make its debut on Friday, October 13, 2023, in Asheville.

The adaptation is written by Elias Hamilton and Ronnie Z. Nielsen of Asheville. Their unique vision transports audiences to the solemn and emotional setting of the star-crossed lovers’ funeral, infusing new life into Shakespeare’s iconic play and exploring themes of love, loss and reconciliation in a fresh way.

Don’t miss your chance to witness this exceptional adaptation of “Romeo and Juliet,” where young visionaries take center stage, breaking boundaries and proving that age is no barrier to artistic excellence.

“Romeo and Juliet: In Memoriam” premieres on Friday, October 13, 2023, at Attic Salt Theater and runs through Sunday, October 21.

“Ben + Angela” by David Brendan Hopes
Oct 20 @ 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
BeBe Theatre

The Sublime Theater presents the world premiere of David Brendan Hopes’ “Ben & Angela,” starring Scott Fisher & Kirby Gibson, directed by Steven Samuels. “No matter how long people have been doing it, marriage remains a mystery. In “Ben & Angela,” a young couple follow the twisty, sometimes hilarious, road from first infatuation through the kinks and perils of living life together for the long haul. They each know the other’s weakness. They each know each other’s strength. They know what it will look like when it is perfect.”

Curtains: School Edition
Oct 20 @ 7:30 pm
Asheville Community Theatre

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.