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.
In this beloved cult classic, chaos erupts in small-town Texas when the elderly family matriarch, an upstanding member of the community, accidentally dies during a clandestine meeting in a seedy motel room with her married lover. The woman’s family must deal with more skeletons coming out of the closet while preparing for what could be an embarrassing funeral. In this ‘coming out’ story, the hilarious, sad, trashy truth about their lives runs amuck.
Explore the dark side of Beer City on LaZoom’s Ghosted Tour!
Duration
1 hour
About
Come enjoy our most popular Asheville tour!
About
Bachelorette/Bachelor Parties are not permitted on this tour. The Fender Bender Bus is bachelorette/bachelor friendly!
Learn about Asheville’s strange, sometimes sordid past from our ghoulish guides. You’ll laugh! You’ll scream! You’ll discover mysteries and chilling tales of scandal and murder on the blood-stained streets of this picturesque town!
Ghosted runs approximately 60 minutes. Beer and wine are welcome onboard, but no open containers, and absolutely no liquor, please! All beer and wine must be purchased from the LaZoom Room. (Passengers must be at least 21 years old to drink on the bus, and must have valid ID.)
Age Restrictions
17 and up. No exceptions.
What’s Included
A bunch of bus seats
History of murders, ghosts and tragedies in the Land of the Sky
Tongue-in-cheek comedy
A live (not dead) tour guide
What’s Not Included
Bathroom breaks (It’s 60 minutes long – plan accordingly!)
Beer or Wine (Purchase at our bar, the LaZoom Room, and take on the bus)
Laughing (we’ll give you the funny, but it’s up to you to laugh)
Gratuity (guides only accept dead president currency)
Waitlist
If your desired time and availability is full, then please give us a call to be added to the waitlist.
In this beloved cult classic, chaos erupts in small-town Texas when the elderly family matriarch, an upstanding member of the community, accidentally dies during a clandestine meeting in a seedy motel room with her married lover. The woman’s family must deal with more skeletons coming out of the closet while preparing for what could be an embarrassing funeral. In this ‘coming out’ story, the hilarious, sad, trashy truth about their lives runs amuck.
Two-time “Comedy Magician of the Year,” Chipper Lowell, continues to be one of the top favorites among theater-goers, young and old! His original blend of side-splitting comedy, highly original magic, mentalism, hilarious audience interaction, and more, has been entertaining audiences for the last 25+ years!
Chipper has appeared multiple times on The Tonight Show, The Disney Channel, America’s Funniest People!, Street Magic, Show Me the Funny!, Don’t Blink!, That’s Incredible, America’s Funniest People, Everybody’s Talking, two Christmas Magic! specials, as well as 50+ guest appearances on all ten seasons of the CW’s hit series: Masters of Illusion. Described by the press as a “Cyclone of high-energy wit & laughs, and jaw-dropping magic!”, Chipper has performed all over the world, including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, England, Malaysia, Bahamas, Australia, and New Zealand.
Chipper most recently received the prestigious Senator Crandall Award for “Excellence in Comedy” and was nominated three times in the past 8 years for “Stage Magician of the Year!” by the Academy of Magical Arts (aka The Magic Castle in Los Angeles). He was also named as one of the “Top Funniest Magicians” performing today by Magic Magazine and honored with “Specialty Act of the Year!” from the Tahoe Daily Tribune and the Sacramento Bee. In addition to his solo tour dates of his critically-acclaimed solo show – The Chipper Experience! – Where Comedy & Magic Collide! – he has starred in several international stage productions and touring companies, including The Illusionists, Unbelievable!, The HITS!, Moon River & Me, Masters of Illusion – LIVE!, and Circus 1903.
Audiences and critics alike continue to rave about his hilarious onstage antics. Chipper’s show is a nonstop, roller coaster of original magic, mentalism, bizarre juggling stunts, and edgy yet corporate-clean comedy, peppered with rapid-fire ad-libs, improv, and audience participation. Truly a laugh-filled and memorable experience of absolute fun for all!
By Joe Tracz, Music by Rob Rokicki
Directed by Shelia Sumpter
Lloyd Main Stage
Unleash the power of the Gods.
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is a high-voltage adventure that brings the beloved best-selling novel to life on stage. Join Percy Jackson, the teenage demigod, on an epic quest filled with humor, mythological marvels, and catchy rock-infused songs. With themes of friendship, self-discovery, and embracing uniqueness, this electrifying musical is a must-see for all ages. Mark your calendars now and be prepared to be swept away into a world where legends come to life!
Suitable for all Audiences.
Directed by Angie Flynn-McIver
RIVETING | THOUGHT-PROVOKING | DARK COMEDY
A charming devil arrives in the quiet village of Edmonton to bargain for the souls of its residents in exchange for their darkest wishes. Elizabeth should be his easiest target, having been labeled a “witch” and cast out by the town, but her soul is not so readily bought. As the devil returns –and returns again– to convince her, unexpected passions flare, alliances are formed, and the village is forever changed.
Content advisory: strong language, staged violence
Rediscover the joy of play and creativity with this highly acclaimed, returning fan-favorite company. Humor, happiness and hope abound in this rejuvenating program that takes Pilobolus into uncharted waters — which is exactly where this innovative company feels most at home. Featuring fresh works with new collaborators, these talented dancers create an experience both timely and timeless, proving once again that the human body is the most expressive, universal and magical of media.
Connect with the art and artists
- Dance workshop with Pilobolus — details forthcoming
- Pre-show discussions: Join members of the company and fellow patrons at pre-show discussions, 7 p.m. prior to the 8 p.m. performances.
Rediscover the joy of play and creativity with this highly acclaimed, returning fan-favorite company. Humor, happiness and hope abound in this rejuvenating program that takes Pilobolus into uncharted waters — which is exactly where this innovative company feels most at home. Featuring fresh works with new collaborators, these talented dancers create an experience both timely and timeless, proving once again that the human body is the most expressive, universal and magical of media.
Please be advised: Evening shows for Asheville include topless nudity.
Connect with the art and artists
- Dance workshop with Pilobolus — Saturday, March 23 from 1-2:30 p.m.
- Pre-show discussions: Join members of the company and fellow patrons at pre-show discussions, 7 p.m. prior to the 8 p.m. performances.
THERE IS ONLY ONE.
HER VOICE IS UNDENIABLE. HER FIRE IS UNSTOPPABLE. HER TRIUMPH IS UNLIKE ANY OTHER.
An uplifting comeback story like no other, TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen of Rock n’ Roll. Set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits, this electrifying sensation will send you soaring to the rafters.
One of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, Tina Turner has won 12 Grammy Awards and her live shows have been seen by millions, with more concert tickets sold than any other solo performer in music history.
Featuring her much loved songs, TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL is written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Katori Hall and directed by the internationally acclaimed Phyllida Lloyd.
Recommended for ages 14+.
🏀March Madness: Jock Jams🏀
📣Y’all ready for this?📣
Jock jams, 90s dance bops, and forgotten pep rally bangers with DJ Lil Meow Meow
🏅Saturday 3.23🏅
🏆10pm-1am🏆
⛹️♀️Costumes encouraged⛹️♀️
See you at Little Jumbo 🍸
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SAVE MONEY! With a Flex Pass, you’ll receive a bundle of tickets to use for our upcoming mainstage productions for less than $20 a ticket! This is a deal that just can’t be beat in WNC.
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Classes at the Wortham
Prioritize your health and wellness with a revolving series of ongoing classes for lifelong learners in yoga, dance, theatre, and more.
Classes are held in the Henry LaBrun Studio at the Wortham Center at 18 Biltmore Ave. Please access the front courtyard from the breezeway by White Duck Taco. Signs will then direct you to the studio door to the left. Parking information can be found here.
2024 Classes
We’re offering TWO grade levels this summer for our workshops:
Camps run Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm |
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Finding Nemo WorkshopJune 17-21, 2024July 8-12, 2024July 29- Aug 2, 2024 |
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Moana WorkshopJune 24-28, 2024July 15-19, 2024August 5-9, 2024 |
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Pirate Palooza WorkshopJuly 1-5, 2024 |
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The Little Mermaid WorkshopJuly 22-26, 2024 |
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Our Musical Theatre Workshop camps center around favorite stage musicals, where students will learn musical numbers and perform a shortened production at the end of each week. Campers will not only perform in many dance numbers and scenes but will work on the technical aspects that all productions need, like sets, props, and costumes. |
Come enjoy our most popular Asheville tour!
Duration
1 hour and 30 minutes
About
Bachelorette/Bachelor Parties are not permitted on this tour. The Fender Bender Bus is bachelorette/bachelor friendly!
Historical and hysterical, The Hey Asheville tour features outrageously entertaining tour guides, outlandish comedy skits complete with special appearances and loads of Asheville information. You’ll get to see the best of downtown Asheville and the rarely seen but stunningly beautiful Montford neighborhood, not to mention the burgeoning River Arts District! You’ve never had a ride like this. It’s like a vaudeville show on wheels!
Find out what makes Asheville so unique on LaZoom’s City Comedy Tour. It’s the perfect mix of history, comedy, and entertainment. Our guides are trained professional actors working with an original script. It’s like a theatre on wheels! The tour highlights downtown Asheville, historic neighborhoods, the South Slope, and the River Arts District.
Age Restrictions
13 and up. No exceptions.
Stops
10 minute beer & bathroom break at Green Man Brewery
What’s Included
Guided tour of Asheville on a Purple Bus
Funny actors, fun bits
Actual History about Asheville
Green Man Brewery Stop
What’s Not Included
Beer/Wine (Must be purchased from LaZoom or the Brewery Stop)
Cash! You’ll want to tip the guides for changing your life for the better.
There is no better way to DISCOVER and EXPLORE Asheville! Hop-on board one of Gray Line’s nostalgic trolleys for a fully narrated day tour, highlighting the history, homes, hang-outs and hot spots of this “city of surprises.”
Tour Highlights include . . . Downtown Asheville | Montford Historic District | The Grove Park Inn and Grove Park Historic District | Thomas Wolfe District | Pack Square and Asheville Art Museum | Grove Arcade | River Arts District | Biltmore Village
Hop-On and hear the story of a city rich in architecture, history and the arts . . .
Hop-Off and experience its eclectic shops and galleries; its world class culinary and craft brew scenes.
Tour Duration: The complete tour (one loop) lasts approximately 90 to 100 minutes. There is an additional 15 minute stop at the Asheville Visitor Center. The Hop-On/Hop-Off Tour ticket is valid for TWO consecutive days.
Departure Points: Join the Hop-On/Hop-Off Tour at any of the 10 stops. If you’re driving in to join the tour, Stop 1, the Asheville Visitor Center may be your best option. The Visitor Center, located at 36 Montford Ave. just off I-240 at Exit 4C, offers free parking (on a first come-first served basis) and restrooms. The Asheville Visitor Center is the ONLY place to join the Overview Tour.
2024 Flex Pass
The 2024 Flex Pass gets you 4 tickets to use as you’d like for the 2024 Mainstage Season.
2024 Flex Pass Plus
The 2024 Flex Pass gets you 5 tickets to use as you’d like for the 2024 Mainstage Season.
2024 Mainstage Season
Minister of Sorrow
Written by Pam Kingsley
Directed by Noah Stout
Showing May 17-19, 2024
It is 1937. Emma is a pack-saddle librarian who came to her calling by way of a painful route. We learn of her life as she shares some of her favorite people in stories. Our 2023 Appalachian Playwriting Festival Winner.
Little Women
Written by Kate Hamill
Adapted From the Novel by Louisa May Alcott
Directed by Erika Tyner
Showing June 7-16, 2024
Based on the literary classic, this play explores what it means to be a woman, a daughter, a sister, and a friend. We follow the story of Jo March and her reckoning with society, growing older, and finding her way as a writer with her sisters by her side. Each one exploring similar but different struggles and wins. Set to a backdrop of the Civil War, this play is a reflection of the waves of change that bookmarked author Louisa May Alcott’s life.
Almost, Maine
Written by John Cariani
Directed by Michael Lilly
Showing June 28-July 7, 2024
One night, a place that’s not a place, and six actors collide for this heartwarming play. A collection of vignettes, Almost, Maine shows us a story of falling in and out of love, bearing through life, and the magic of the unknown. Northern lights shine on these nine short plays and show us the beauty of Almost.
Ordinary Days
Written by Adam Gwon
Directed by Jeff Catanese
Music Direction by Lynda Shuler
Showing August 9-18, 2024
Connections are all around us in this impactful play. Lost items, missed taxis, tragedy, they’re all red strings that tie us to one another. Comedic at times, poignant at others, this musical features four characters whose stories are just a handful in the 8.3 million others that create the vibrance of the New York City landscape.
Vanities
Written by Jack Heifner
Directed by Marci Bernstein
Showing September 6-15, 2024
Chronicling the lives of three best friends from Texas, this show follows our cast from girlhood to adulthood and explores their differentiating opinions on life, experiences, and the future. Beginning in 1963 Texas and landing in New York in 1974 this play is an honest and real reflection of the impact of a changing world through a bittersweet comedic lens.
SINGLE SHOW TICKETS
Non-Musicals
Adults: $24
Seniors (60+), Students (18+ with ID), Military (active or retired): $22
Children (under 17): $12
Musicals
Adults: $26
Seniors (60+), Students (18+ with ID), Military (active or retired): $24
Children (under 17): $15
Junior Productions
Adults: $15
Children (under 17): $10
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Imaginative kids can create, explore, and play in Summer Camps at the Wortham Center! With high-energy, low-pressure programs for rising 1st-5th grade campers, week-long camps expand minds, build life skills, and create meaningful friendships through the arts. Register now online or by calling the Box Office at 828-257-4530. Space is limited. A limited number of full and partial need-based scholarships are available upon application through Arts for All Kids. Families who qualify for free or reduced lunch are welcome to apply. Questions? Email Director of Education Anna Kimmell at [email protected]. |
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CREATIVE ARTS CAMP
Rising 1st-2nd Grades
JUNE 24-28, 2024 • 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Little kids with BIG imaginations can dance, sing, act, create, and collaborate in this high-energy, low-pressure arts camp! With engaging activities rooted in creative play, kids will have so much fun expressing themselves through the arts, they won’t even notice they’re also building confidence, improving physical and emotional awareness, honing listening and focus skills, and learning to work within a group. At the end of the week, campers will celebrate what they’ve learned in an informal sharing for friends and family.
$185 in February ($205 after March 1)
PERFORMING ARTS CAMP
Rising 1st-2nd Grades
JULY 15-19, 2024 • 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
In this week-long, half-day summer arts camp, students will have fun exploring the fundamentals of acting, music, and movement. Through engaging activities rooted in creative play, kids will make friends, explore the performing arts, discover new tools for expression, and share what they’ve learned in a short performance presented at the end of the week for friends and family.
$185 in February ($205 after March 1)
CREATIVE ARTS CAMP
Rising 3rd-5th Grades
JULY 8-12, 2024 • 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Kids will have fun exercising their imaginations in this week-long camp exploring the creative arts! With daily activities in acting, dance, music, design, technical theatre, and more, this high-energy, low-pressure camp builds life skills, confidence, and friendships through the arts. Kids will leave feeling empowered to take creative risks on stage and off.
$290 in February ($310 after March 1)
PERFORMING ARTS CAMPS
Rising 3rd-5th Grades
JULY 22-26, 2024 • 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Kids can connect with other creative thinkers as they write, develop, and perform in their own original show! With an emphasis on self-expression, collaboration, and the creative process, kids will have fun exploring daily activities in acting, movement, creative writing, and improvisation in a low-pressure, supportive environment. At the end of the week, young artists will share their newfound skills in an informal performance for family and friends. No prior performing arts experience is necessary, only an open mind.
$290 in February ($310 after March 1)
Dads, Moms, Grandparents, Cousins, Aunts, Uncles, Siblings of all ages are invited to participate in this family theatre camp style production! There are roles for kids, teenagers and adults of all ages. Current, past, and new Playground Stage Families are invited to join!
Show Title: To be revealed at the 5 Year Birthday Celebration!
Dates and Times
Info Sessions & Auditions:
(Participants must choose one date to attend an info session) (Speaking role auditions are optional)
June 12, 2024 – Summer Family Musical Info Session & Speaking Role Auditions
or
June 19, 2024 – Summer Family Musical Info Session & Speaking Role Auditions
Rehearsals:
Evenings July 22nd – August 2nd
Located at Avery’s Creek Community Center
899 Glenn Bridge Rd SE, Arden, NC
Evenings August 5th-8th
Located at Asheville High School Theatre
Performances: August 9th & 10th
Asheville High School Theatre
Optional music learning rehearsals will take place every Wednesday from 6:00-7:30pm throughout the summer starting June 26th 2024
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Enter for your chance to see Tony Award winners Hamilton and Hadestown (from incredible seats) and get your travel and lodging expenses covered as well. Don’t miss your chance to enter! Tickets are only $45 and going fast.
The Broadway Raffle is Back!
Secure your chance to win a Broadway trip in May 2024! Each $45 ticket enters you to win:
- A pair of tickets to see Hadestown at the Walter Kerr Theatre on May 17 at 7pm. Seats in Center Orchestra, Row D, on the aisle
- A pair of tickets to see Hamilton at the Richard Rodgers Theater on May 18 at 7pm. Seats in Center Orchestra, Row C, on the aisle
- $2500 for roundtrip airfare and hotel accommodations during your stay
- Total package value: apx $3800
Raffle drawing to be held at the closing performance of Witch on April 7, 2024 at 2pm
THAT SOUNDS GREAT! HOW DO I BUY TICKETS?
Tickets are $45 each and there is no limit on the number you may purchase.
Here’s your chance! Asheville Community Theatre is thrilled to offer you the opportunity to win a magical 4-day Disney Cruise for four. By purchasing a raffle ticket, not only do you get a shot at an unforgettable family vacation, but you also support the arts in our community.
Prize Details:
- A Dream Cruise: The winner and three guests will embark on a 4-day journey to the Bahamas aboard a Disney Cruise ship. You’ll stay in a Veranda Cabin with breathtaking views and top-notch amenities.
- Customized Experience: Work with our travel agent, David Lloyd of Foothills Travel, to tailor your trip to perfection. Whether it’s exciting onboard activities or exploring the ports, your adventure will be exactly what you’ve dreamed of.
- Travel Support: We’ve got you covered with an additional $500 to help with transportation to and from Port Canaveral, ensuring a smooth start and end to your magical journey.
- Complete Assistance: From the moment you win to the end of your cruise, you’ll have personalized support to ensure your trip is seamless and unforgettable.
- Tickets are just $50 each, making this the perfect opportunity to potentially win a trip valued at $8,800, while supporting Asheville Community Theatre’s mission to enrich our community through the arts.
Don’t miss out on this chance to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Get your tickets now!
Click here to view the complete set of rules.
Special Awards are given each year in honor and rememberance of the Fletchers.
CUSTOMIZED TOURS:
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A custom half day tour planned with your interests in mind. This option is approximately 3.5 hr and can be morning from 9:30-1; or afternoon from 1:30-5.
We will select 2-3 artist studio options in the Asheville or Weaverville areas based on your input and artist availability. Three studios are standard for this custom half-day option, or two glass studios work well in this time frame (due to glass demo’s taking a bit longer than other mediums).
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A custom full day tour planned with your interests in mind. This option is a full day from 9:30a to approximately 4p.
Designed for the serious art lover! Lunch is included, and this tour allows for the possibility of visiting 4 artist studios that are 30-60 minutes away from Asheville: for example in Waynesville, Marshall, Burnsville, Penland or Spruce Pine. Many of western NC’s professional artists live in these locations, so come explore more of the region with me – your local art insider!
Tour rates per participant: New Glass Plus 1 tour $65/ea. | Custom half day $85/ea. | Custom full day $165/ea.
For custom tours, planning ahead is key. Art Connections provides tours for couples and small or medium size groups. These tours are based on your interests, your time frame, and which artists are available for a visit. I know that everyone who considers a tour has different thoughts on what they’d enjoy seeing. Maximize your visit by planning ahead with me. Having worked for over 30 years with so many of the artists in Western NC, I can accommodate participant interests and find options that are a good fit for each request.
Just use the Contact page and send in an inquiry, we’ll go from there and work out the details.
Recommended for grades 3-12
Production duration: 60 min.
One of the world’s most exciting dance companies, Pilobolus celebrates movement and creativity in a lively, interactive performance created for student audiences. Humor, happiness and hope abound in this rejuvenating program featuring fresh works.
Connect with the artists in a post-show Q&A.
Reservations for individuals (10 people or less): $12 each. To reserve, complete the Student Series Reservation Form, call the box office at 828-257-4530 ext. 1, or email [email protected].
Reservations for groups (11 people or more): $11 each. To reserve, 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.
Join us for a North Carolina winery tour and celebrate a date night, bachelorette party, retirement, family, or a weekend away while sampling our favorite local beverages along the way. Our standard tour includes visits to three Asheville area vineyards. With safe and reliable transportation provided, you can sit back, relax and just have fun.
Included:
- Round trip transportation*
- Three vineyard visits
- Tastings at two of your three stops. Let’s just say that the pours at the first couple of locations are generous so we like to leave the third-stop beverage choice up to you.
- Time commitment = up to 5 hours
Want to include specific vineyards on your Asheville wine tours? If you have “must-see” wineries in mind or want to craft a full day catered to your group’s interests, we’re always happy to create a custom experience. Reach out any time!
THERE IS ONLY ONE.
HER VOICE IS UNDENIABLE. HER FIRE IS UNSTOPPABLE. HER TRIUMPH IS UNLIKE ANY OTHER.
An uplifting comeback story like no other, TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen of Rock n’ Roll. Set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits, this electrifying sensation will send you soaring to the rafters.
One of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, Tina Turner has won 12 Grammy Awards and her live shows have been seen by millions, with more concert tickets sold than any other solo performer in music history.
Featuring her much loved songs, TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL is written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Katori Hall and directed by the internationally acclaimed Phyllida Lloyd.
Recommended for ages 14+.
By Joe Tracz, Music by Rob Rokicki
Directed by Shelia Sumpter
Lloyd Main Stage
Unleash the power of the Gods.
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is a high-voltage adventure that brings the beloved best-selling novel to life on stage. Join Percy Jackson, the teenage demigod, on an epic quest filled with humor, mythological marvels, and catchy rock-infused songs. With themes of friendship, self-discovery, and embracing uniqueness, this electrifying musical is a must-see for all ages. Mark your calendars now and be prepared to be swept away into a world where legends come to life!
Suitable for all Audiences.
Directed by Angie Flynn-McIver
RIVETING | THOUGHT-PROVOKING | DARK COMEDY
A charming devil arrives in the quiet village of Edmonton to bargain for the souls of its residents in exchange for their darkest wishes. Elizabeth should be his easiest target, having been labeled a “witch” and cast out by the town, but her soul is not so readily bought. As the devil returns –and returns again– to convince her, unexpected passions flare, alliances are formed, and the village is forever changed.
Content advisory: strong language, staged violence
Based on a story by Daphne du Maurier and made famous by Alfred Hitchcock, four strangers grapple with birds who have been transformed from creatures of beauty into terrifying, menacing predators.