The marching band and dance team had over 10,000 kids participate, 1977-2019, including a few who’ve started their own performance groups.
New and established dance studios and classes help locals stay fit and feel great
Despite pandemic setbacks, Asheville still offers a wide range of adult dance classes that get feet tapping and spirits soaring. Here’s a look at some new studios and classes on offer, as well as why local instructors and students find dance so fulfilling.
Four of a Kind: Melvin AC Howell on Asheville’s dance scene
The choreographer and owner of Heart & Soul Dance Co. offers his take on upcoming dance performances.
The Mountain Dance and Folk Festival celebrates its 94th year
The long-running showcase of Southern Appalachian music, dance and storytelling takes place Aug. 5-7 at UNCA’s Lipinsky Hall.
Terpsicorps returns to its RAD roots for outdoor performances
Terpsicorps Theatre of Dance artistic director Heather Maloy discusses the company’s return to live performances.
Around town: Hide and Seek
Multidisciplinary artist Kira Bursky celebrates her first print collection. Also: new theater, live music, books, exhibits and more!
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: Actors and poets needed, plus new art exhibits and online events
Want to dance? The Wortham Center for the Performing Arts is hosting a virtual ballet workshop. Want to act? Montford Park Players is currently seeking actors for the 2021 season. Want a free stay at a local bed and breakfast? Submit your poetry to The Writers’ Workshop’s annual contest and see if you win.
Local artists adjust to life after contracting COVID-19
Bob “Zuzu” Welsh, Barrie Barton and Jeff Catanese share their experiences with COVID-19 and its lingering effects.
Local arts leaders spotlight creators to watch in 2021
Local arts leaders in various mediums identify up-and-coming or underseen peers that readers should be on the lookout for in 2021.
Asheville Fringe Arts Festival embraces digital format
The festival’s 19th edition features shows designed for online presentation, plus a few socially distanced outdoor events.
A&E Roundup: YMI, local artists celebrate Kwanzaa
Community leaders and local musicians bring the annual celebration of African American culture online, a local screenwriter’s film debuts online and more area arts news.
A&E Roundup: Digital music showcases bring seasonal cheer
Asheville Music School and A Swannanoa Solstice go digital for the holidays, Moves places a song on TV and more area arts news.
Word on the Street establishes permanent home at Edington Center
The arts-based after-school program centers the leadership and creativity of Black and Brown youths ages 13-19.
Asheville Fringe Arts Festival’s summer series moves online
Fringe Digital Summer offers a virtual alternative. It returns via the Zoom conferencing platform on Wednesday, Aug. 19.
Asheville’s social dance scene practices social distancing
Solo dance workshops are especially accessible for quarantined dance enthusiasts and, Annie Erbsen points out, “There’s also still a lot of music being streamed.”
Videographer Ben Phantom combines music with modern dance
“Right now, I’m focused on putting out singles with music videos that tell stories,” says Asheville guitarist/singer/songwriter Ben Phantom, formerly known as Ben Phan.
ACDT launches Festival of New Dance
“This is an experiment for us to try a different concept with what’s called ‘new dance,’” says Susan Collard. “[It] involves a lot of projection, video and film, and almost everyone in this concert is using some type of collaboration with a filmmaker, a video projector or experimental music.”
Smart Bets: Flamenco Vivo
The acclaimed dance company performs at Diana Wortham Theatre, Feb. 14 and 15.
Asheville Fringe Arts Festival returns for its 18th year
More than 40 local and national acts are scheduled for this year’s Asheville Fringe. The four-day ticketed portion of the festival runs Thursday-Sunday, Jan. 23-26, with additional parties and free events taking place now through Sunday, Jan. 26.
Smart bets: Asheville Mardi Gras Twelfth Night
The party takes place at Eleven on Grove on Monday, Jan. 6.