Lexington, KY - Welcome to our annual Fall Arts Preview. On the following pages, you will find information about the upcoming arts season in Lexington, including visual art exhibits, fall festivals and music, dance and theater season schedules. From experimental theatre and music to more traditional concerts from the Philharmonic and Chamber Chorale, this season contains something for everyone. If we have left off your favorite arts organization or event, please leave us a comment, we'll be sure to update our listing (and make a note for next year).
THEATRE
Studio Players
All productions are held at the Carriage House Theatre (154 W. Bell Ct.) Showtimes are 8 p.m. Fri. -
Sat., 2:30 p.m. Sun., and 8 p.m. opening night.
(859) 225-0370
www.studioplayers.org
The 39 Steps
Sept. 15 - Oct. 9
Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python, and you have "The 39 Steps." The four-member cast plays over 150 characters in this fast-paced whodunit with non-stop laughs and some good old-fashioned romance. Directed by Ross Carter.
Looking for Mrs. Santa Claus
Nov. 17 - Dec. 11
Inspired by a real-life "Mrs. Claus," this world-premiere production tells the tale of a wise elf and a kind-hearted woman who find magic by simply believing in the power of a child's wish. This world-premiere musical was written by local playwright Margaret C. Price. Directed by Alberta Labrillao.
Our Leading Lady
Jan. 19, 2012 -
Feb. 5
Set in Washington, D.C. in 1865, "Our Leading Lady" is a backstage comedy in which a presidential assassination is not merely a national tragedy but also a vexing interruption in a powerful woman's quest for fame and glory. Directed by Scott Turner.
Bad Seed
March 15 - April 1
On the surface, Little Rhoda Penmark is sweet, charming, full of old-fashioned graces, loved by her parents, and admired by all her elders. But Rhoda's mother soon has reason to become very alarmedÖ and afraid. Directed by David Senatore.
The Graduate
May 17 - June 3
Based on the novel by Charles Webb and screenplay by Calder Willingham and Buck Henry. Benjamin Braddock, recent college graduate and prodigal son, returns home and promptly becomes embroiled in an affair with the wife of his father's business partner, one Mrs. Robinson, and soon finds himself falling in love with her daughter, Elaine. Directed by Bob SIngleton.
Actors Guild of Lexington
All productions are held in the South Elkhorn Theatre (4383 Old Harrodsburg Rd.). Showtimes are 8 p.m. Fri., Sat., and opening night; 2 p.m. Sun.
(859) 309-1909
www.actors-guild.org
Breathing Corpses
Oct. 13 - 23
Amy's found another body in a hotel bedroom. There's a funny smell coming from one of Jim's storage units. And Kate's losing it after spending all day with the police. There's no going back after what they've seen.
The Seafarer
Dec. 1 - 11
It's Christmas Eve, and Sharky has returned to Dublin to look after his irascible, aging brother who's recently gone blind. Old drinking buddies Ivan and Nicky are holed up at the house too, hoping to play some cards. But with the arrival of a stranger from the distant past, the stakes are raised ever higher. Sharky may be playing for his very soul.
The Clean House
Jan. 26, 2012 - Feb. 5
Lane's life is in chaos: her maid, obsessed with her quest for the "perfect joke," is not cleaning the house. On the other hand, Lane's sister is obsessed with cleaning. It seems like a match made in heaven until the three women discover that Lane's husband is having an affair -
comic chaos ensues.
The Love Song of J. Robert Oppenheimer
March 1 - 11
This dazzling, award-winning play blends history, fantasy, and speculation to explore the conflicted life and controversial career of Oppenheimer, the Berkeley professor who created the atomic bomb as the director of the Manhattan Project, only to crusade against it after World War II ended.
TBA
May 17 - 27
The final show of AGL's final season will be announced later in the season. Visit the organization's website for updates at a later date.
Balagula Theatre
All shows take place at Natasha's Bistro & Bar (112 Esplanade); showtimes are at 8 p.m. (arrive early for dinner seating).
(859) 749-0899
www.balagula.com
One Flea Spare
Sept 1 - 4, 11 - 14
A wealthy couple is preparing to flee their home when a mysterious sailor and a young girl appear at their boarded up house. Now, quarantined together for 28 days, the only thing these strangers fear more than the plague is each other. By Kentucky native Naomi Wallace.
A Steady Rain
Oct. 9 - 12, 16 - 19
"A Steady Rain" focuses on two Chicago policemen who inadvertently return a Vietnamese boy to a serial killer who claims to be the child's uncle. When he later becomes the man's latest victim, the lifelong friendship of the two men is threatened.
The Book of Liz
Nov. 27 - 30, Dec. 4 - 7
A gut-busting production by David Sedaris and Amy Sedaris about Sister Elizabeth Donderstock, who makes cheese balls that sustain the existence of her entire religious community.
Fahrenheit 451
Jan. 29, 2012 -
Feb. 1, 5 - 8
Based on the classic novel by Ray Bradbury, "Fahrenheit 451" touches on the themes of human alienation in the world dominated by electronic media; dangers of state censorship; and the effect of passive consumption on human intellect.
Prize for Women Playwrights
Contest Winner (TBA)
March 25 - 28, April 1 - 4
The Balagula Theatre has partnered with Kentucky Women Writers Conference (KWWC) to develop the first Prize For Women Playwrights, and is the producing theatre for the winning play.
Caligula
June 3 - 6, 10 - 13
The play shows Caligula, Roman emperor, torn by the death of Drusilla, his sister and lover. In Camus's version of events, Caligula eventually deliberately manipulates his own assassination. (Historically, this event took place January 24, AD 41.)
Broadway LIVE
All productions are held at the Lexington Opera House (401 W. Short St.). Showtimes are at 8 p.m. Fri., 2 and 8 p.m. Sat., 2 and 7 p.m. Sun.
(859) 233-3535
www.lexingtonoperahouse.com
Peter Pan
Sept. 23 - 25
Tony Award nominee Cathy Rigby takes flight in an all new production of Peter Pan. Discover the magic all over again of this two time Emmy award winning and two time Tony award nominated production.
Young Frankenstein
Nov. 4 - 6
The classic Mel Brooks movie is alive in this new production, winner of the 2008 Outer Critics Circle Award and the Broadway.com Audience Award for Best Musical.
In the Heights
Jan. 20 - 22
With an amazing cast, incredible Tony Award-winning dancing and a thrilling Tony Award-winning score, "In the Heights" is an exhilarating journey into a vibrant Manhattan community.
Shrek the Musical
Feb. 17 - 19
In a faraway kingdom turned upside down, things get ugly when an unseemly ogre - not a handsome prince - shows up to rescue a feisty princess. Featuring a terrific score of 19 all-new songs, big laughs, great dancing and breathtaking scenery.
Come Fly Away
March 9 - 11
This one-of-a-kind experience combines the seductive vocals of Frank Sinatra with the sizzling sound of a live on-stage big band and the visceral thrill of Twyla Tharp's choreograph.
Midtown Men
April 27 - 29
Audiences from coast-to-coast are raving about this one of a kind concert experience celebrating the music of the 1960s with classic songs by the Beatles, Beach Boys, Motown, The Four Seasons, and more.
UK Department of Theatre
All shows are held in the Guignol Theatre, located in the Fine Arts Building on the University of Kentucky's campus. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Fri. - Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., and 7:30 p.m. opening night.
(859) 257-3297
www.uky.edu/finearts/theatre
The Monkey King
Oct. 6 - 16
Romeo & Juliet
Dec. 1 - 11
August: Osage County
Feb. 23, 2012 - March 4
Thoroughly Modern Millie
April 19 - 29
UK Opera Theatre
Productions are held at various locations.
(859) 257-9331
www.ukoperatheatre.org.
Romeo et Juilette
7:30 p.m. Oct. 22, 28 - 29; 2 p.m. Oct. 23, Lexington Opera House
Inspired by Shakespeare and an overwhelming fan favorite since its Paris premiere, Charles Gounod's "Romeo et Juliette" delivers a timeless tale of love, loyalty, romance and revenge.
Samson and Deliah
3 p.m. Jan. 22, 2012, Singletary Center for the Arts
Falstaff
7:30 p.m. Feb. 25, March 2 - 3; 2 p.m. Feb. 26, Lexington Opera House
Lexington Children's Theatre
All performances are at the LCT Main Stage (418 W. Short St.); showtimes are at 2 p.m. Sun., 2 and 7 p.m. Sat. - unless otherwise noted.
(859) 254-4546
www.lctonstage.org
Charlotte's Web
Sept. 18 - 25
Charlotte the spider and Wilbur the pig are closer than close when Wilbur finds out he's in danger of becoming bacon. Charlotte is determined to hatch a plan that will save him. Based on the story by E.B. White.
The Boxcar Children
Oct. 16 - 23
When the Alden siblings overhear a social worker saying they might be split up after the accidental death of their parents, the foursome hits the road and along the way discover an abandoned railroad car that they claim as their new home.
The Tales of Edgar Allan Poe
7 p.m. Oct. 28; 2, 7 p.m. and midnight Oct. 29, 2 p.m. Oct. 30
Theatrical renditions of some of the most memorable tales from the Gothic master, Edgar Allan Poe.
Madeline's Christmas
2 p.m. Nov. 26; 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 3; 2 p.m. Dec. 4
No flu will keep Madeline and the other little girls from enjoying Christmas. With some help, Madeline finds a way to nurse her friends back to health and get them to their families in time for Christmas. Based on the book by Ludwig Bemelmans.
Old Jake's Skirts
Dec. 11 - 18
Old Jake doesn't need anyone other than his trusty ole hound dog, Shoestring. But what happens when Jake and Shoestring stumble across a trunk full of calico skirts - calico skirts with many magical and unexpected uses?
Tales of the Shimmering Sky
Jan. 22, 2012 - Jan. 29
Join storytellers as they reenact beautiful, creative fables about the sky from all the world. These stories may be more fantasy than fact, but you will forever look at the sky in a whole new light.
There's a Boy in the Girl's Bathroom
Feb. 26 - March 4
With the unconventional methods of the new guidance counselor at Red Hill School, fifth-grader Bradley begins to open and reveal a heart of gold. Based on the book by Louis Sachar.
Sacagawea: Discovering History
March 17 - 18
Jane's dad is forcing her to accompany him and her brother on a road trip along Lewis and Clark's historical route. Jane will find out what life was like on the trail for Sacagawea, Lewis and Clark's Native American guide.
Goodnight Moon
April 29 - May 13
Based on the book by Chad Henry.
Project SEE Theatre
This is the first full season of plays for the Project SEE Theatre. Shows are held at the Downtown Arts Center (141 E. Main St.), unless otherwise indicated. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Thurs. -
Sat. and 2 p.m. Sun.
(859) 225-0370
www.projectseetheatre.com
boom
Sept. 1 - 4, 8 - 11
"boom" is a three-person comedy exploring the influences of fate versus randomness in the course of one's life, and life as we know it on the planet. It was the most produced show in regional theatre last year.
Almost, Maine
Oct. 27 - 30, Nov. 3 - 5, The Little Theater at Transylvania University
Project SEE
will join the team at Transylvania University for this production through actor training for the student cast as well as performing in the show.
12 Dates of Christmas
Dec. 8 - 11, 15 - 18
"12 Dates of Christmas" is a one-woman show in which a lone actress portrays the many characters that make up Mary's yearlong holiday dating journey.
The Hot l Baltimore
March 1, 2012 - March 4, 8 - 11
This production is set in the lobby of the Hotel Baltimore. It focuses on the residents of the decaying property who are faced with eviction when the structure is condemned. The play draws its title from the hotel's neon marquee with a burned-out letter "e" which was never replaced.
Burn This
May 31 - June 3, June 7 - 10
This production begins shortly after the funeral of Robbie, a young dancer. In light of the tragedy, a group of friends attempts to make sense of their lives and reconsider their own identities and relationships.
DANCE
Kentucky Ballet Theatre
All performances take place at the Lexington Opera House (401 W. Short St.).
(859) 252-5245
www.kyballet.com
The Witches of Doon
8 p.m. Oct. 14 - 15
Based on the Robert Burns poem "Tam O' Shanter," this ballet conjures up a tale of witches and swords and old-fashioned Highland revelry.
The Nutcracker
8 p.m. Fri., 2 and 8 p.m. Sat., 2 p.m. Sun.
Dec. 9 - 18
Kentucky Ballet Theatre's rendition of the timeless holiday classic.
Beauty and the Beast
2 and 8 p.m. March 24, 2 p.m. March 25.
Kentucky Ballet Theatre's own version of the classic fairy tale.
Lexington Ballet
Performances are at various regional locations.
(859) 233-3925
www.lexingtonballet.org
The Firebird
Oct. 21 - 22, Lyric Theatre
The Nutcracker
8 p.m. Dec. 10, EKU Center for the Arts
Ion Dance
Feb. 10 and 12, Lyric Theatre
Cinderella
April 20 - 22, Lexington Opera House
VISUAL ARTS
UK Art Museum
405 Rose St.
12 p.m. - 5 p.m. Tues. - Sun. (until 8 p.m. Fri.)
(859) 257-5716
www.uky.edu/artmuseum
Lasting Legacy: Gifts of Art from Jim Wenneker
Through Sept. 25
Major donors have helped build the museum's outstanding art collection. This is the first in a series of exhibitions highlighting gifts of art to the museum. Wenneker is a local art collector.
The Art of Insect Illustration
Through Oct. 30
A fascinating collection of insect illustrations lent by the University of Kentucky Entomology Department.
The Veil: Visible and Invisible Spaces
Through Oct. 9
A visual response to the many cultural and political aspects of veils and veiling throughout human history. Artists from the United States, Europe, South and Central Asia, and the Near and Middle East have created 33 powerful works that examine the veil and its stereotypes.
See Blue: Art from the Collection
Oct. 30 - Jan. 22, 2012
The innovative exhibition, gathered from the museum's permanent collection, consists of works of art that feature the color blue. Explore the range of this color, its symbolism and expressive qualities.
Richard Bell: Us vs. Them
Feb. 12 - May 6
The first traveling exhibition in the United States dedicated to the multi-layered work of Aboriginal artist and activist Richard Bell, one of Australia's leading and most controversial artists.
Lexington Art League
207 Castlewood Dr.
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tues. - Fri.; 1 - 4 p.m. Sat. - Sun.
(859) 254-7024
www.lexingtonartleague.org
More Is More and Everything Is Related to Everything
Through Sept. 11
"More is More" examines a common tendency towards multiples and repetition in contemporary art. "Everything Is Related to Everything" is a "printstallation" using graphic theatricality and abundant juxtaposition of unlikely families of signs to illustrate the interconnectivity of all things.
Re:Play
Sept. 23 - Oct. 16
Curated by Sarah Wylie Van Meter from the Lexington Film League, "re:Play" is an all-video exhibition exploring found video and text atop the historical architecture of the Loudoun House.
Nancy Barron & Associates Art Fever
Oct. 22 - Nov. 12
An exhibition of works available for LAL's annual "artful fundraiser," taking place Nov. 12. View the online gallery at www.lexingtonartleague.org before the event and visit the Loudoun House to number your choices. Act fast: it's part of the fun. Call or visit the website for tickets to the fundraiser.
Nude/Body/Figure
Jan. 13, 2012 - March 11
Juried by University of Kentucky Associate Professor of Art History Anna Brzyski & LAL's Exhibitions & Programs Director Becky Alley, "Nude/Body/Figure" examines contemporary art practices and trends concerning the human form.
Morlan Gallery
Mitchell Fine Arts Center, Transylvania University
Noon - 5 p.m. Mon. - Fri. (and special appointment)
(859) 233-8142
www.transy.edu/morlan
Unveiling the Painted Curtain: 21st C Interactive Art
Sept. 16 - Oct. 28
The Morlan Gallery hosts three interactive and generative art works in conjunction with Studio 300, Transylvania's first digital arts and music festival (Sept. 16-17). The exhibit features "Toys' Opera" by Yoni Niv, Elad Shniderman and Adam Kendall; "Heaven Calling" by Tim Polashek; and "Forgetfulness" by Ivica Ico Bukvic.
Beyond Boundaries: New Wok by Nana Lampton
Nov. 10 - Dec. 6
Landscape comes alive when seen through the eyes of poet, business woman and world traveler Nana Lampton. New paintings and sketchbooks from recent travels are included in this exhibition, as well as a slide gallery of Transylvania student travel journals juried by Lampton.
The Millenials
Jan. 17, 2012 - Feb. 10
This juried exhibition seeks to offer a visual entrÈe into the minds of America's largest age group, nicknamed the millennial generation. Aged 18-29, the Pew Research Center has defined this group as, "the American teens and twenty-somethings currently making the passage into adulthood - who have begun to forge theirs: confident, self-expressive, liberal, upbeat and receptive to new ideas and ways of living."
Enigmatic Remembrances: Collaborative work by Petra Carroll and Rae Goodwin
Feb. 17 - March 23
Artists Petra Carroll and Rae Goodwin's collaborative and individual works explore remembrances through a variety of media and processes to draw the viewer into a shifting experience of time and memory.
Senior Thesis Exhibition
April 2 - 20
Annual Juried Student Art Exhibition
May 4 - 18
MUSIC
Lexington Philharmonic
Performances are scheduled at various locations in Lexington
(859) 233-4226
www.lexphil.org
Visit the organization's website for information and schedules for the Family Series, Kick-Backed Classics, PB&J series and other special events.
Classic Series, 50th Anniversary Season:
Opening Night Celebration with Midori
7:30 p.m. Sept. 30, Singletary Concert Hall
Program -
Berlioz: Roman Carnival Overture. Beethoven: Violin Concerto, op.61 featuring Midori. Tchaikovsky: Waltz and Polonaise from Eugene Onegin. Ravel: La Valse.
The Human Spirit
7:30 p.m. Nov. 11, Singletary Concert Hall
Program -
Barber: Adagio for Strings. Elgar: Enigma Variations, op.36. Vaughan Williams: Dona Nobis Pacem, featuring guest soloists from the Lexington Singers and University of Kentucky Chorale.
Handel: Messiah
7:30 p.m. Dec. 1 - 2, Cathedral of Christ the King
An annual seasonal tradition, featuring guest soloists and the Lexington Chamber Chorale.
Candy Cane Takes a Global Sleigh Ride
7:30 p.m. Dec. 9, Singletary Concert Hall
LexPhil ushers in the holidays with music celebrating cultural traditions around the world. Featuring MadCap Puppets, McTeggert Irish Dancers, Bill Meck, choruses from Asbury University and Centre College, Central Kentucky Youth Orchestra and more.
Composer's Journey
7:30 p.m. Feb. 17, 2012, Singletary Concert Hall
LexPhil launches its Saykaly Garbulinska Composer-in-Residence Program with a week of educational and community outreach programs led by Daniel Kellogg and the world premiere commission in celebration of LexPhil's 50th Anniversary. Program -
Schubert: Symphony No. 8 (unfinished). Daniel Kellogg: LexPhil Commissioned World Premiere. Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5 (Emperor), featuring Lucille Chung.
Americana with Time for Three
7:30 p.m. March 23, Singletary Concert Hall
Program -
Weill: Symphonic Nocturne from Lady in the Dark. Copland: Suite from Billy the Kid. Meyer/arr. Hedges: The American Suite. Arr. Hedges: Shenandoah/Foxdown.
Baroque Splendor
7:30 p.m. April 27, Singletary Concert Hall
Program -
Vivaldi: The Four Seasons, featuring David Halen. Kellogg: Mozart's Hymn, with guest conductor Kelly Kuo. Bach: Concerto for Two Violins BWV 1043, featuring David Halen and Nathan Cole.
The Planets: An HD Odyssey
7:30 p.m. May 11, Singletary Concert Hall
Audiences will be transported from the internal landscape of Hindermith to deep space with the spectacular new high-definition film presentation that will accompany Holst's masterpiece. Program -
Hindemith: Symphonic Metamorphosis. Holst: The Planets - an HD Odyssey, with the Women of the Lexington Singers.
Singletary Signature Series
All shows held at the Singletary Center for the Arts (405 Rose St.)
(859) 257-4929
www.uky.edu/SCFA
Jose Porcel and Ballet Flamenco
7:30 p.m. Sept. 24
Because flamenco is an expression of rhythms, colors and emotions that contains all the vitality, sunniness and passion of the Spanish people, it is a folkloric celebration, where, even when "theatre art" is being provided, irresistible erotic appeal and irrepressible energy remain intact.
Imelda May
7:30 p.m. Oct. 8
Imelda May is unmistakable both in her music (a fusion of surf guitars, blues and rockabilly that wouldn't be out of place in a David Lynch film) and her style, with a solitary curl and shock of blonde in her jet black hair. Her debut album, "Love Tattoo," has gone Triple Platinum.
Huun Huur Tu
7:30 p.m. Oct. 8 (concert is in the recital hall)
Using traditional instruments and drawing subtly on 20th century composers, funky rhythms, and the palette of electronica, Huun Huur Tu transform ancient songs into complex acoustic compositions.
Pink Martini with UK School of Music Symphony Orchestra
7:30 p.m. Dec. 10
Drawing inspiration from music all over the world -
crossing genres of classical, jazz and old fashioned pop - the Pink Martini "little" orchestra was founded in Portland, Ore., in 1994.
Natasha Paremski with UK School of Music Symphony Orchestra
7:30 p.m. Feb. 11, 2012
With her consistently striking and dynamic performances, 23-year-old pianist Natasha Paremski reveals astounding virtuosity and voracious interpretive abilities.
Don Quixote by the Moscow Festival Ballet
7:30 p.m. March 22
Leading dancers from across Russia have forged under Serei Radchenko's direction an exciting new company staging new productions of timeless classics.
Lexington Singers
Concerts are held at various locations around Lexington; visit the organization's website for further information once it becomes available.
www.lexsing.org
Boston Pops
Oct. 15, Rupp Arena
Dona Nobis Pacem
Nov. 11, Singletary Center for the Arts
Kentucky Christmas Chorus
Dec. 13, Singletary Center
Messiah
Dec. 18, Singletary Center
Carmina Burana
March 30, 2012, EKU Arts Center
Festival of Choirs
April 28, Shiloh Baptist Church
The Planets
May 11, Singletary Center for the Arts
With Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra
POPS Concerts
May 19 - 20, Lexington Opera House
Lexington Chamber Chorale
All concerts performed at Central Baptist Church (110 Wilson Downing Rd.).
(859) 317-3353
www.chamberchorale.com
Monteverdi the Maestro
7:30 p.m. Oct. 1
The ensemble performs works from one of Italy's most celebrated composers, Claudio Monteverdi, who was a master of music for church, court and theatre.
Sing Noel
5 p.m. Dec. 1
Enjoy festive sounds and an audience sing-along at the chorale's popular holiday concert. A reception and silent auction follows the concert.
Music from the Land of the Midnight Sun
7:30 p.m. Feb. 11
The chorale will delve into the rich history of Scandinavian music, featuring guest conductor Gary Graden from Stockholm.
Revel in the Spring
7:30 p.m. April 14
A celebration of spring through song, featuring special guests from UK's Academy of Creative Excellence.
University of Kentucky School of Music
All events are held on a stage at the Singletary Center for the Arts, unless otherwise noted.
(859) 257-4900
www.uky.edu/FineArts/Music
UK DMA Recital: Mark Kano, voice
7:30 p.m Sept. 1
UK Jazz Ensemble and UK Lab Band Jazz Concert
7:30 p.m. Sept. 22
5th Annual Kentucky New Music Festival
7:30 p.m. Oct 2 - 5
Keeneland's 75th Post Time with the Pops
8 p.m. Oct. 15, Rupp Arena
The Boston Pops with Keith Lockhart will be joined by the University of Kentucky Symphony Orchestra for a concert saluting Keeneland on its 75th Anniversary.
UK Jazz Spectacular
3 p.m. Oct. 16
UK Concert Band
7:30 p.m. Oct 25
UK Percussion Ensemble
3 p.m. Nov. 6
Kentucky Jazz Repertory Orchestra: Big Band Swing Dance
7:30 p.m. Nov. 12, UK Student Center Grand Ballroom
Featuring the Hepcats Swing Dance Club. Directed by Dick Domek and Miles Osland.
UK DMA Recital: Ming-Hui Kuo, percussion
7:30 p.m. Nov. 29
Alltech Holiday Celebration of Song
6 p.m. Dec. 11, Victorian Square
FALL FESTIVALS
Kentucky Women Writers Conference
(859) 257-2874
www.uky.edu/wwk
The conference (Sept. 16 - 17) features a broad range of workshops, presentations and other literary events with established national and international authors; to attend the conference, visit the organization's website. The Kentucky Women Writers Conference also hosts a number of free events before, during and after the conference's run which are open to the public at various locations in Lexington (listed below).
Poetry of Resilence
8 p.m. Sept. 15, Kentucky Theatre (214 E. Main St.)
A screening of the work in progress by conference presenter Katja Esson; opening with "Waterbody," a film by Bianca Spriggs.
Sonia Sanchez Series: Tananarive Due
4 p.m. Sept. 16, Carnegie Center (251 W. Second St.)
This series brings a major thinker in multicultural and human rights issues to Lexington, to travel the neighborhoods performing a series of intimate lectures and small group sessions; the guest's visit culminates in this keynote address.
Gypsy Poetry Slam
8 p.m. Sept. 16, Downtown Arts Center
(141 E. Main St.)
Featuring Kirsta Franklin, hosted by Bianca Spriggs.
An Evening with Francine Prose and Danzy Senna
8 pm. Sept. 17, Memorial Hall
A keynote reading from the authors.
Stars with Accents
7 p.m. Sept. 18, Carnegie Center
Featuring Jan Isenhour, Fannone Jeffers and Jane Gentry Vance.
Roots & Heritage Festival
Sept. 9 - 30
www.rootsandheritagefestival.com
Various events take place throughout Lexington during the Roots & Hertiage Festival's run; the popular street festival, which features vendors, food and multiple music stages along Elm Tree Lane, will take place from Sept. 9 - 11. Visit the festival's website for a complete of scheduled events for the entire festival.
Street Festival
The African Marketplace and Street Festival will take place from Sept. 9 - 11, vendors will be set up along Elm Tree Lane, with many activities scheduled throughout the day, including musical performances on the main stage in the evening (listed below). The festival parade is scheduled from 11 a.m. - Noon Sept. 10, for entry forms and route information, visit the festival's website.
Sept. 9
Theodis Ealey
Norman Connors
Sept. 10
The Deele
Carl Carlton
The Rick James Stone City Band
Sept. 11
Gospel Extravaganza
WRFL presents Boomslang: A Celebration of Sound and Art
Sept.18 -
27
www.boomslangfest.com
This year marks the third annual installment of Boomslang, a multi-venue festival in celebration of independent music, art and media. Presented by WRFL, the festival will feature music, film, fashion and literary events across a 10-day span, with the music portion of the event culminating over the weekend of Sept. 23 - 25. The weekend's festivities will also include free community "SkillShare" workshops and the inaugural "Queerslang," a separate event under the Boomslang banner geared toward celebrating the local LGBT arts community.
Weekend passes guarantee entry to all Boomslang events ($50/$40 UK students). Many events are free or ticketed separately as well. Tickets and more information available at the festival's website.
Sept. 18
Boomslang and the Kentucky Women Writer's Conference present Stars with Accents: a Literary Celebration, featuring readings by Jane Gentry, Fanonne Jeffers and Sallie Bingham, and a Q&A moderated by Katerina Stoykova-Klemer (7 p.m., Carnegie Center)
Sept. 23
Those Darlins, Scott Carney of Wax Fang, Big Freedia, Miss Cass, John the Baptist (8 p.m. - 2:30 a.m., Cosmic Charlie's)
Cough, Below, They Yearn for What They Fear, Stampede (9 p.m. - 2 a.m., The Green Lantern)
Sept 24
Ty Segall, Woodsman, RC Pro Am, Street Gnar, Pujol and more (Noon - 6 p.m., Bar Lexington)
Pelican, Sir Richard Bishop, Swans, Secret Chiefs 3, Another7Astronauts, Horseback (8 p.m. - 1 a.m., Buster's Billiards & Backroom)
Queerslang presents SSION and MEN (11 p.m., Cosmic Charlie's)
Community SkillShare Workshops (Noon - 4 p.m., Awesome Inc.)
Sept. 25
Julianna Barwick, Hong Shao's Pipa Club, R. Stevie Moore (3 - 6 p.m., Natasha's Bistro and Bar)
Tom Tom Club and Psychedelic Furs (8 p.m., Buster's Billards and Backroom)
Lexington Fashion Collaborative Neighborhood Series (6 p.m., Tuska Gallery)
Sept. 27
WRFL's Sureel Film and the Lexington Film League present the Lexington premiere of "Open Five," a film by Kentucky native Kentucker Audley (7 p.m., Kentucky Theatre).
Christ the King Oktoberfest
11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Oct. 7 - 8, Christ the King Cathedral (299 Colony Blvd.)
www.ctkoktoberfest.com
Christ the King's Oktoberfest is an annual fall institution in Lexington, featuring adult and children's attractions, great food, good beer, and a stellar music lineup. Visit the festival's website for a full list of scheduled events.