A magically festive, full-length Nutcracker, featuring professional classical dancers and the Ballet Conservatory’s celebrated pre-professional company. A full production with impressive sets and costumes.

A young girl’s holiday dream comes true. Having crept downstairs at midnight to play with her new Nutcracker doll, Clara is swept up in a fantasy of toy soldiers, giant rats, snow fairies, magic and mystery. After saving her beloved Nutcracker from the King of the Rats, she is whisked away to an enchanted land and dances the night away, meeting a host of enchanting characters.

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The Nutcracker

Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

North Carolina’s oldest professional non-profit ballet company presents the full-length classical holiday tradition, with stars, story, and sugarplums. Clara’s magical journey to the Lands of Snow and Sweets featuring the traditional Tchaikovsky score has become a favorite holiday family tradition.

Dirty Logic is the country’s premier Steely Dan Tribute Band, bringing the musical genius and legendary sound of Steely Dan to life with thrilling precision. This 11-piece powerhouse delivers the experience that true Steely Dan fans and music enthusiasts recognize as authentic passion for the music, skillfully and joyfully recreated. The collective shares the idea that: “playing this music the way that it should be played” means bringing together musicians who are masterful in their craft, who share a deep love and sense of reverence for the music and musicians of Steely Dan.

Dirty Logic – A Steely Dan Tribute

Mark your calendars for a night of fabulous music for a fantastic cause. Our hurricane-relief concert series BLUE RIDGE HOLLER is coming to Asheville’s Wortham Center on Nov. 21!

Blue Ridge Holler

Garrison Keillor Tonight is an evening of stand-up, storytelling, audience song, and poetry. One man, one microphone. There are sung sonnets, limericks, and musical jokes, and the thread that runs through it is the beauty of growing old. Despite the inconvenience, old age brings the contentment of LESS IS MORE.
Your mistakes and big ambitions are behind you, nothing left to prove, and small things give you great pleasure because that’s what’s left. (“I was unhappy in college because it was a requirement for an ntellectual, but then I went into show business and discovered that people won’t pay to be made inhappy; their kids will do it for free.”)

Garrison Keillor Tonight!

This high-energy circus inspired by the sights and sounds of Guinea features gravity-defying acrobatics set to exhilarating percussive rhythms of live Afro-Jazz and West African music. Founded by Guinean-born artist Yamoussa Bangoura, Cirque Kalabanté blends traditional African performance with European circus techniques, creating a vibrant celebration of strength, agility, and cultural pride. The performance reflects Bangoura’s dream of sharing the beauty and artistry of African culture with the world, brought to life by a cast that includes members of his own family and community. 

Cirque Kalabanté: Afrique En Cirque

Join the Grand Kyiv Ballet for the WORLD Premiere of the new Ballet, The Snow Queen.  The Snow Queen is a powerful and cold-hearted ruler who travels the world with the snow, bringing winter wherever she goes.  The tale tells the adventures of a young girl named Gerda and her quest to rescue her friend Kai from the clutches of the Snow Queen.

The Snow Queen

Swan Lake is a ballet masterpiece that tells the story of a prince who falls in love with a beautiful swan princess under a spell. The ballet is renowned for its stunning choreography, intricate set design, and Tchaikovsky’s captivating music. Its themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption continue to resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, making it a timeless classic that has endured for more than a century.

Swan Lake

Stories move on the water. The water moves in all things. Life moves in dynamic patterns that weave like currents and rich tapestries that shape who we are. We may sometimes fall short of such states of grace. We readily receive the gifts the world provides with no explicit expectations in return. Yet reciprocity could very well be our best pathway to survival. We can decide to give back, and now is the time. We were built for this. Made for it. 

The Gift

Juked is a retelling of Sophocles’ tragedy Electra. This version is set in 1950s Asheville and the “kingdom” is a chain of drink houses (private homes offering illegal alcohol) owned by the well-off, African-American Memnon family. Juked examines the relationship between Electra, her mother, and her sister, and asks what happens after tragedy. How do we recover? Juked is part of the Emerging Black Playwrights New Play Series and first debuted in its development phase, as a staged reading in November 2023. 

Juked – RESCHEDULED

“THE MAGICAL MUSIC OF HARRY POTTER” with a special guest from the films!

Experience the best of the Oscar-nominated music from the Harry Potter films in a unique evening of concert, with a star guest, the Magic Film Orchestra & Choir, and magical illusions!

Relive some of the saga’s most moving and memorable compositions:

Hedwig’s Theme – The unforgettable motif that began it all

Double Trouble – Mischief and magic in perfect harmony

The Magical Music of Harry Potter – Live In Concert

Step into the heart of the savanna for an unforgettable evening of music, emotion, and spectacle as The Lion King—Live in Concert takes the stage. This extraordinary event brings to life the beloved musical hits of The Lion King in a breathtaking live performance featuring a symphonic orchestra, dynamic percussionists, and soaring choral harmonies. From the iconic opening chant of “Circle of Life” to the uplifting joy of “Hakuna Matata” and the romantic beauty of “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” this concert is a tribute to one of Disney’s most powerful and enduring stories.

The Music of the Lion King – Live In Concert

The symphonic world of Hans Zimmer with music from James Bond, The Lion King, The Pirates of the Caribbean, Gladiator, The Dark Knight, Inception, Interstellar, Top Gun, Dune and more!

“The Music of Hans Zimmer & Others” is an unforgettable concert and audiovisual experience for all age groups, film enthusiasts, music lovers, and families. The best music will be performed by the Hollywood Film Orchestra in an impressive show with light installations, laser projections, and selected film clips. Star soloists from the Original Broadway Production will perform excerpts from “The Lion King”, Zimmer’s most beloved box office smash hit.

The Music of Hans Zimmer & Others

The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit & The Rings of Power in Concert with a special guest from the films, a symphonic orchestra and the Oscar-winning music of Ed Sheeran, Howard Shore, Annie Lennox, Enya, and more great composers.

The musical world of hobbits and elves from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Lord of The Rings”, “The Hobbit” and “The Rings of Power” will be performed in a unique concert by a film orchestra, choir, and star soloists. The two-hour performance features an original guest star and the greatest music from the films, ranging from the threatening music of Mordor and the shrill sounds of the black riders to the beautiful lyrical melodies of the elves.

The Music of The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit and The Rings of Power in Concert

One of the finest singer-songwriters of her generation, Bonoff’s ballads became hits for legends like Linda Ronstadt and Bonnie Raitt. Her live shows—spare, moving, and transformative—showcase a voice that works timeless magic and continues to captivate audiences around the world. 

Karla Bonoff

Master storyteller Donna Washington delivers delightfully disquieting tales of skin-spinners, sweet-toothed child-eaters, undead lovers, and blood-hungry captains. Perfectly timed for the Halloween season, these stories will get under your skin and revisit you deep in the night

Donna Washington: Of Blood and Bone

Join internationally acclaimed storyteller Donna Washington for a delightful session of fun, interactive, and not-so-scary ghost stories perfect for young audiences. Through the enchanting world of Swamp Stories rooted in African American traditions, students will not only enjoy the tales but also enhance their literary skills. Donna’s animated storytelling style, complete with vocal pyrotechnics and expressive characterizations, will captivate and inspire students, making this an unforgettable educational experience. 

Donna Washington: A Little Shiver

Joanne Shaw Taylor was discovered by Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics at the age of 16, quickly earning a spot on tour with his supergroup, D.U.P., and launching a remarkable career. Celebrated for her extraordinary guitar skills, Joanne has garnered acclaim from notables like Jimmy Cliff, Joe Bonamassa, Stevie Wonder, and Annie Lennox. By her 30s, she became one of the most sought-after guitarists in rock.

Joanne released her debut album, ‘White Sugar,’ in 2009 on Ruf Records, showcasing her distinct soulful voice and advanced songwriting. She followed with critically acclaimed albums like ‘Diamonds In The Dir’” (2010) and ‘Almost Always Never’ (2012), which included the UK radio hit “Soul Station.” Her subsequent albums, ‘The Dirty Truth’ and ‘Wild,’ continued to build her reputation, leading to a performance on BBC’s “Later With Jools Holland.”

Joanne Shaw Taylor

Back by popular demand, Lightwire Theater returns with DINO-LIGHT—a glow-in-the-dark adventure that captivates audiences of all ages. Using a cutting-edge blend of puppetry, technology, and dance, this visually stunning performance tells the heartwarming story of a curious dinosaur who discovers a world of light and the true meaning of love. Each character is handcrafted from recyclable materials like aluminum rods, PVC pipes, and skateboard wheels, then brought to life with electroluminescent wire that glows brilliantly in the dark. This inventive fusion of engineering and artistry creates a magical, immersive experience unlike anything else on stage. 

Lightwire Theater: DINO-LIGHT

In this visually stunning adventure for all ages, a friendly dinosaur discovers a glowing world and the true meaning of love. Lightwire Theater blends puppetry, technology and dance to tell tender-hearted stories that spark childlike wonder and (literally) light up the darkness. 

Journey into an astonishing universe where Pilobolus transverses the landscape of the human experience with heart-stopping grace, acrobatic power, and breathtaking artistry. Explore the human condition as they fuse sensuality, humor, and physical prowess in a spellbinding performance.   

Pilobolus: Other Worlds Collection

Get ready for a high-energy journey through imagination and movement! Known for their athleticism, humor, and creativity, Pilobolus blends dance, storytelling, and visual surprises into a performance like no other. Students become part of the action with interactive engagement and enjoy laughter-filled moments that spark creativity and connection—leaving them amazed and inspired.  

Pilobolus

Through music, we reflect on the impact of Hurricane Helene, one year later. This program features: the world premiere of Sinfonietta Helene by Asheville-based composer Jay Sanders; Iman Habibi’s Jeder Baum spricht, which is inspired by the beauty of nature and the impact of climate change; and local composer Phillip Rhodes’s Concerto for Bluegrass, a nod to the resilience of WNC. Help us celebrate the region’s inspiring, resilient culture this fall.

Post-Helene: Remembering, Rebuilding, Reimagining

When this Grammy-winning choir hits the stage, they will raise the rafters with a soul-stirring concert of South African freedom songs, spirituals, and classics by Aretha Franklin, Peter Gabriel, and Leonard Cohen. Their rich harmonies, brilliant costumes, and infectious spirit promise to deliver a night of sheer musical exhilaration.

Soweto Gospel Choir: Peace

Adesto Theatre presents Improvised Jane Austen, a completely improvised play performed in the style of Jane Austen. The play is made up on the spot by a cast of trained actors who take an audience suggestion to build an entire world in front of your eyes! You have no idea what will happen and neither do they! You won’t believe there is no script.

Improvised Jane Austen

From the Blue Note in NYC to the Voodoo Rooms in Edinburgh, award-winning singer-songwriter Ariella McManus and passionate guitar virtuoso husband Nicolaas Kraster comprise the soulful duo known as ARIELLA & NICOLAAS. Drawing vocal inspiration from icons like Etta James and Amy Winehouse and stylistic influences including Paco de Lucía and Roy Buchanan, ARIELLA & NICOLAAS captivate audiences with their rich, romantic sound. Having graced the stage with the likes of famed producer Fabrice Dupont, and five-time Grammy-winning bass legend, Victor Wooten, who lists Ariella & Nicolaas as one of his all-time favorite performers, the duo experienced a meteoric rise on Facebook, growing their followers to 370,000 in just one year. From heartfelt ballads to fiery flamenco to bluesy melodies to electrifying rock, ARIELLA & NICOLAAS traverse a multitude of genres and resonate with audiences worldwide.

Ariella and Nicolaas

Music is storytelling, and some of the best stories have been told through centuries-old traditional folk songs. On their new album ‘Northern Sky’, The Wellermen have given this rich traditional musical history a new sound.

The Wellermen’s history is well-known: originators of the sea shanty trend on TikTok, they’ve since gone from strength to strength. Their versions of ‘Misty Mountains’, ‘Nancy Mulligan’, and ‘Hoist The Colours’ have racked up billions of views and led them to appearances on shows like Ant and Dec, Last Week Tonight, The Colbert Show and more.

The group has now returned with their new album ‘Northern Sky’. Among much-loved traditionals such as ‘Wild Mountain Thyme’, ‘Amazing Grace’, and ‘Red Is The Rose’, you will find more modern songs such as a tribute to Johnny Cash on ‘Hurt’ and a lively version of ‘The Nights’. The band also presents originals ‘Northern Sky’ – inspired by maritime life in the Hebrides in the 18th century, and the humorous ‘Tall Tales’ – a one-upmanship of the telling of wild sea adventures.

THE WELLERMEN – Tour Tales

The Sawtooth Troubadours are an old-time music and cultural experience from the hills of Western North Carolina. While they embrace the traditions of the past, they also push the boundaries that create their own unique sound

A supergroup of sorts drawing from the bands Skunk Ruckus, the Trusty Hucksters, The John Hardy Party and F-5. They bring both an audio and visual show that is rarely seen on stage.

High energy old time, sea shanties, Fiddle Reels, Backwoods BBQ Blues, and lots of genre melding originals. Everything is up for grabs.

The Sawtooth Troubadours

The 17th Annual Music Video Asheville is an event that showcases the collaborations between filmmakers and musicians. Area bands submit their music videos and the best 90 minutes of videos are selected for a viewing and awards ceremony in Downtown Asheville. The red carpet event is a celebration of the creative, unique and diverse music community we have here in the heart of Western North Carolina. 

Music Video Asheville

“Why see a show when you can BE the show!?”

Choir! Choir! Choir! is the fully interactive, participatory show that turns audience into performer! So get ready to laugh, dance and SING! your hearts out with hundreds of other music-lovers just like you. It’s like a big birthday party for the greatest songs of all time and you’re invited!

So grab a friend (or ten), and come out ready to GIVE IT ALL YOU’VE GOT! – all voices welcome, no experience necessary. They Teach, You Sing! Everyone Wins!

This time, Choir!Choir!Choir! Presents: We Will CHOIR! You!: An EPIC QUEEN Sing-Along

We Will Choir! You

Katie Pruitt is living proof of music’s power to transform the way we experience the world. Soon after the arrival of her acclaimed debut Expectations—a 2020 LP on which she documented her journey in growing up queer in the Christian South—the Georgia-bred singer/songwriter/guitarist heard from countless listeners that her songs had impacted their lives on an elemental level. “A lot of people told me how the record helped them navigate their relationships with family—I even had some parents tell me that it helped them understand their children better,” she recalls. With her sophomore album Mantras, the Nashville-based musician now looks inward to explore such matters as gender identity, self-compassion or the lack thereof, and the struggle for peace in times of chaos and uncertainty—ultimately arriving at a body of work that speaks to the strength in undoing harmful self-beliefs and fully living your truth.

KATIE PRUITT – The Time Wasn’t Wasted Tour

 The Return Of The King is the most authentic Elvis tribute in the nation! Starring top tribute artist Tyler Christopher and The Roustabout Showband.

Tyler Christopher is a multi- award winning internationally recognized Elvis Tribute Artist and performer! Tyler Christopher started his professional career at only 16 years old after being invited to and winning at the largest Elvis competition in the Northeastern United States. Tyler’s other accolades and awards accumulated over the years include being ranked in the top 5 in the world at Elvis’s birthplace of Tupelo, MS. Top 3 in King Of Las Vegas and number 1 in Bluegrass Tribute To The King competition as well as current champion of The Indiana Elvis FANtasy Festival. Tyler was sanctioned by Elvis Presley Enterprises to perform 3 years in a row for Elvis night for The Cincinnati Reds 

The Return of the King: An Unrivaled Tribute to Elvis

Praise and Worship Recording is an evening of praise and worship to God through songs, a service found in a Christian setting as a way that the community can come together and be a part of the live recording as we connect with God through music and songs for praise and worship to our God.

Good Morning God

From country and western swing to jazz and rock, Redd Volkaert is considered a true giant of country music and the Telecaster guitar. Redd is a Grammy-winner and a guitar-playing legend who is renowned throughout the country music world and beyond.

Volkaert played in Merle Haggard’s backing band The Strangers in the spot previously staffed by Roy Nichols. In addition, he has recorded and performed with a who’s who of country music stars such as George Jones, Dolly Parton, Brad Paisley, Dwight Yoakam, Buck Owens, Alison Krauss, Rhonda Vincent, and many more.

The Redd Volkaert Trio with Steel Guitarist Silas Hamilton

Aliens have arrived from space, and they are turning Rev. Vonnie Braxton’s world upside down. Her congregation is freaking out; her husband is distant, and her faith is challenged. When someone from her past shows up, Vonnie must choose between the way things are and her commitment to social justice. Dear God is part of the Emerging Black Playwrights New Play Series and first debuted in the development phase, as a staged reading in November 2023.

Dear God – RESCHEDULED

Celebrate the season at the beloved local tradition that has captivated audiences for over 20 years! Experience a dynamic mix of new and returning artists, bringing you a festive variety of Celtic, American roots, and world-influenced music. This winter, join a heartwarming tribute to Appalachian culture, filled with holiday cheer. 

A Swannanoa Solstice

With raw emotion, tight harmonies, and impeccable musicianship, The Slocan Ramblers will light up the stage and lift your spirits. Their latest album Up the Hill and Through the Fog transforms hardship into hope with a powerful, joyful soundtrack. Say hello to your new favorite band. 

The Slocan Ramblers

Experience a fresh, take on one of William Shakespeare’s most beloved plays with this captivating rendition of a literary classic. This fast-paced, crowd-pleasing comedy follows a mischievous fairy who creates chaos for four young lovers and a troupe of amateur actors in an enchanted forest. Bursting with mirth, music, magic, and mayhem, this uplifting tale of illusion, love, and transformation comes to life with an electric cast of New York-based artists. The Acting Company, a recipient of the 2003 Tony Award for Excellence in the Theatre, brings this timeless story to the stage with unparalleled energy and creativity. 

The Acting Company presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Akin to a bingeable dramedy carved with the beautiful prose that made Dickens popular, this fast-paced adaptation is filled with unexpected hilarity, escaped prisoners, decaying mansions, and a stunning young heiress of ruthless intelligence. This gripping rise from hardship to high society will enthrall audiences of all ages. 

The Acting Company presents Great Expectations

Sit center stage and step into the spotlight. Join us on the Diana Wortham Theatre stage for an unforgettable evening where every note played helps open doors to the arts for WNC students.

Enjoy intimate on-stage seating, light bites and drinks, a silent auction, and a soul-stirring performance by LP & the Vinyl. Order your tickets today—seating is limited. 

Special Event: LP & The Vinyl – From Blues to Beatles to Bowie

Hailed by The Boston Globe as “the finest Celtic ensemble this country has ever produced,” Solas celebrates 30 years of boundary-pushing Irish music. With fiery instrumentals, rich vocals, and adventurous musicality, their high-energy performance promises a powerful celebration of Irish music—past, present, and future. 

Solas

For over 50 years, Ailey II has merged the spirit and energy of the country’s finest early-career dance talent with the creative vision of today’s outstanding and emerging choreographers. One of America’s most popular dance companies, Ailey II brings fresh perspectives to Alvin Ailey’s legacy—propelling the next generation forward. 

Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance

Circus EVO returns to Asheville with “Solstice: a Winter Circus Experience”! Back by popular demand, Solstice is a one-of-a-kind theatrical journey that blends contemporary circus, dance, and physical theatre into a breathtaking 75-minute performance. Featuring a cast of world-class artists from across the United States, Solstice tells the story of a woman who loses her inner light and finds herself plunged into a surreal world where memories come to life and the ordinary becomes extraordinary.

SOLSTICE: A Winter Circus Experience

A 2X Grammy-winning jazz singer-songwriter, pianist, arranger, and New York-based bandleader—Zuraitis is a trailblazing artist with “a heart as big as her remarkable voice” (Jazz Police). Discover how this dynamic performer and “prolific songwriter” (Broadway World) is redefining vocal jazz.  

Nicole Zuraitis

Since its founding in Los Angeles in 2007, BODYTRAFFIC has been a powerful force in contemporary dance. This internationally renowned dance company is celebrated for its technical prowess and versatility, with artists expertly mastering a repertoire that spans ballet, contemporary, modern, Afro-Cuban, and hip hop genres. Known for its stunning performers and diverse technical mastery, BODYTRAFFIC is committed to a dynamic repertoire that captivates both dance lovers and newcomers alike. 

Bodytraffic

Based on the award-winning graphic novel by Jason Reynolds and Raúl the Third, this adaptation follows middle-schooler Portico Reeves—aka Stuntboy—whose superpower is keeping everyone safe as he navigates identity, emotional wellness, empathy, and growing up. Living in the biggest apartment building on the block, Portico faces everyday challenges, including his parents’ impending divorce and dealing with anxiety, which he calls “the frets.” Through humor, heart, and heroism, this performance will engage students in important conversations about resilience and the power of human connection. 

TheaterWorksUSA presents Stuntboy, In the Meantime

Grammy-nominated master instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, storyteller, activist, and author—McCutcheon is folk music’s true Renaissance man. Wherever he performs, his legendary charm resonates with audiences of every generation. 

“The most impressive instrumentalist I’ve ever heard” —Johnny Cash

John McCutcheon

The minute this groovy blue cat meets The Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking—except young Jimmy, the most organized second grader on Earth. Together, they set out on an adventure of friendship and art. Based on the popular book series by Kimberly and James Dean, this musical adaptation brings Pete’s laid-back, fun-loving spirit to life. With catchy tunes and vibrant performances, students will be engaged in a delightful journey that emphasizes creativity, teamwork, and the joy of embracing new experiences.

TheaterWorksUSA presents Pete the Cat

One of Scotland’s most innovative musical exports, this skilled contemporary folk act fuses Highland and Island traditions into a fresh, distinctive sound rooted in heritage. Their multi-award-winning performances match “fiery intensity with exquisite finesse” and are “as polished as [they are] passionate” (The Scotsman). 

Breabach

Inspired by James Weldon Johnson’s Lift Every Voice and Sing, this powerful musical suite by composer Reginald Golden blends jazz, blues, gospel, folk, and spirituals. Each movement honors both the struggle and resilience of the Black experience, while celebrating the beauty and richness of its cultural legacy. 

Reginald Golden and the Reginald Golden Singers: Stony the Road

A bumbling crew, a mysterious yellow bird, and a chase that defies reality launches kids into a wild world with no words. Just laughter, wonder, and theatrical magic for all ages, backgrounds, and imaginations. Join Liars and Believers on an adventure filled with masks, puppets, and gibberish, as they race over land, across the sea, and through the air, battling pirates and monsters—all without ever leaving the storage room. 

Liars & Believers presents Yellow Bird Chase

Experience an exciting collection of contemporary choreography performed by Wortham’s company-in-residence, Stewart/Owen Dance. From elegant to electric, this program features ensemble works and guest choreographers—each with a distinct creative voice. Known as Asheville’s hub for contemporary dance, Stewart/Owen Dance captivates audiences with their innovative performances and commitment to artistic excellence. 

Stewart/Owen Dance + Guests

Winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and written by Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater through what Entertainment Weekly called, “the most gorgeous Broadway score this decade,” Spring Awakening explores the journey from adolescence to adulthood with a poignancy and passion that is illuminating and unforgettable. This landmark musical is an electrifying fusion of morality, sexuality and rock and roll.

Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

18 - 20 Dec, 2025

The Nutcracker

Dec 21, 2025

A Swannanoa Solstice

Jan 16, 2026

The Slocan Ramblers

Jan 23, 2026

The Acting Company presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Jan 24, 2026

The Acting Company presents Great Expectations

18 - 20 Dec, 2025

The Nutcracker

12 - 14 Dec, 2025

The Nutcracker

Wortham Center for the Performing Arts