In his latest novel, One Kind Favor, local author Kevin McIlvoy examines racial violence in a small, rural North Carolina town.
Cornerstones of the WNC arts scene navigate distinct reopening obstacles
The Fine Arts Theatre, Flat Rock Playhouse and Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville face unique challenges on the road to resuming operations.
Video premiere: Life Like Water’s ‘Nothing Stays’
Xpress talks with David Matters, singer and multi-instrumentalist of the local band Life Like Water, about the group’s new music video for their song “Nothing Stays.”
Around town: Say Their Names
The YMI Cultural Center and First Congregational United Church of Christ renew their partnership; Asheville Pizza & Brewing reopens its theater; and more area arts news.
Local bands persevere through pandemic shakeups
Local bands have sustained and grown their fan bases through various creative means during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Taking Action: Live on Linden Avenue
Local band Brushfire Stankgrass launched Live on Linden, a porch concert series, in 2020.
Peggy Weaver wins 2021 Xpress Poetry Contest
Local poet Peggy Weaver earns the 2021 top finish in Xpress’ annual poetry contest.
Around town: Hide and Seek
Multidisciplinary artist Kira Bursky celebrates her first print collection. Also: new theater, live music, books, exhibits and more!
Taking Action: Amanda Wray continues to expand local LGBTQ+ archive
Amanda Wray continues to expand the LGBTQIA+ Archive of Western North Carolina.
Fiber artist Paris Evans grows Milkweed from Instagram to brick-and-mortar
The Charleston transplant has struck a productive balance between commissions and featuring the work of brands she respects.
RADTIP celebrations aim to enhance revitalized river district’s future
City officials team with River Arts District Transportation Improvement Project partners for grand opening celebrations.
Around town: Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre concert series returns
Local bluegrass band Balsam Range will kick off the 2021 Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre concert series. Also: WNC History Cafe returns; Conserving Carolina hosts photo contest; and more.
Local artists work to inspire a picturesque America
For over a decade, local artists Scott “Doc” Varn has been searching out sites depicted in the 1870s publication Picturesque America. In more recent years, he’s put together a coalition of artists to reinterpret these sites as a way to draw greater attention the conversation movement.
Taking action: Stephanie Hickling Beckman
The Different Strokes managing artistic director discusses her theater company’s plans to sustain momentum built during summer 2020’s BLM protests and enact lasting change.
Around town: Asheville Art in Action benefits nonprofits and creators, local actors land major TV roles and more arts news
A new initiative more sustainably helps nonprofits and artists, more live theater returns and other area happenings.
Video premiere: Kathryn O’Shea’s “Fall”
Local singer/songwriter Kathryn O’Shea celebrates the release of her music video, “Fall,” recorded in the Black Balsam area of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Local videographer Laura Boswell filmed the shoot. Xpress caught up with O’Shea to discuss the release. Below is the interview, along with the video premiere. Xpress: Can you speak to the inspiration behind the song? Kathyrn O’Shea: […]
Local musicians find new creative outlets to sustain them during COVID-19
Unable to perform live, many local musicians have redirected their creative talents and discovered new opportunities during the pandemic.
Around town: New books, Shakespeare, fundraisers and more
Transylvania County youth services librarian Laura Gardner celebrates her debut children’s book, Blue Ridge Babies 1, 2, 3. Also: Blue Ridge Community College Theatre Department presents William Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors; Asheville Area Piano Forum hosts its 15th annual Spring Benefit Concert; and more!
Webinar series encourages collaboration through craft
The Center for Craft’s webinar series with UNCA views vital topics through the lens of craft.
Ann B. Ross concludes her Miss Julia series — maybe
The bestselling author discusses life during the pandemic, the decision to end her popular series and its potential second life on the screen.
Local music venues reopen at limited capacities
Representatives from White Horse, The Grey Eagle and The Orange Peel discuss their approaches to welcoming audiences back indoors.