Autumn LEAF kicks off this weekend at Lake Eden in Black Mountain. Among the dozens of national and international performers, a number of local artists will also be featured on various stages. This list includes:
• Toubab Krewe: World beats and rocker teeth — Toubab Krewe is a perfect amalgamation of the danceable, eclectic sounds that makes LEAF such an exceptional festival. Toubab Krewe got its start in Asheville, but the band only plays on home turf a few times each year. Don’t miss this chance to see them. Friday, Lakeside stage at 10:30 p.m.
• The Blue Ridge Orchestra: Formed in ‘99, “The orchestra is comprised of accomplished amateur, semi-professional and professional musicians who volunteer their time in an effort to make orchestral music more accessible to the community.” Saturday, Brookside dancehall, 5:45-7:45 p.m.
• Snake Oil Medicine Show: One of Asheville’s enduring traditions, Snake Oil blends bluegrass, reggae and their own psychedelic touches. Thursday, Eden Hall, 7-8:30 p.m.; Sunday, The Barn, 1:45-2:45 p.m.
• Kon Tiki describes itself as “a tropical swing and a twist of Hawaiian flair.” Friday, The Barn, 6:45-7:45 p.m.; Saturday, Roots Family Stage, 2:15-3:15 p.m.
• Woody Pines brings a stylish mix of ragtime and country blues to the stage. Or the street corner (he and his band often busk).Friday, Wildwoods, 7-8 p.m.; Saturday, Eden Hall, 6:15-7:15
Woody Pines – Root Hog or Die from Live & Breathing on Vimeo.
• Sirius.B: The self-described “Absurdist gypsy folk funk punk” collective is a multi-year/multi-category winner among Xpress readers in the annual Best of WNC poll. Friday, Eden Hall, 1:30-3 a.m.
• Unifire Theatre: Honestly, it wouldn’t be LEAF without fire dancers. When darkness falls and Unifire’s performers begin to spin flames, reflected in Lake Eden’s water, it’s nothing short of magical. Saturday, waterfront, 9 p.m.
• Warren Wilson Gamelan Ensemble: Here’s what you need to know — the gamelan is an Indonesian instrument made up of a variety of components such as xylophones, drums, bamboo flutes and bowed and plucked strings. An ensemble is made up of many members, and no two ensembles are the same. Saturday, Eden Hall, 10-11:15 a.m.; Sunday, Roots Family Stage, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
• Asheville Hoops Troupe promotes hula hooping for exercise, relaxation and entertainment. Friday, Wildwoods, 5:30-6:30 p.m.; Saturday, Lakeside stage, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
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