Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.

Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.

Tuesday, January 16, 2024
LES BALLETS TROCKADERO DE MONTE CARLO
Jan 16 @ 7:30 pm
Peace Concert Hall

You don’t need to know plié from a jeté to enjoy Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo. The company, affectionately known as the Trocks, brings its internationally beloved troupe of male dancers to Greenville to perform a brilliant combination of skillful pointe work and hilarious parodying of classical ballet favorites like Swan Lake.

In the nearly 50 years since the company’s founding, it has grown to achieve great appeal among more mainstream audiences who flock to theaters throughout the world to see the prima ballerinas perform. The Trocks are “a guaranteed hoot for people who know nothing of ballet and an absolute must for those who think they know the originals” (Sydney Star Observer).

Friday, January 19, 2024
SHREK RAVE
Jan 19 @ 8:00 pm
The Orange Peel

IT’S DUMB JUST COME HAVE FUN. WHO CARES. COOL IS DEAD.

Ages 18+

Saturday, January 20, 2024
Chase Away the Blues
Jan 20 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Tryon Fine Arts Center

TFAC’s popular event, Chase Away the Blues, returns to January in 2024 to brighten up the winter nights! Get ready! The VIP Blues Lounge opens at 5:30 PM with live music open bar and food provided by Tryon Resort in the Pavilion. All are sure to get your feet stomping…

Thursday, January 25, 2024
City Dance
Jan 25 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Friday, January 26, 2024
Wortham Center Student Series PARSONS DANCE
Jan 26 @ 10:00 am
Diana Wortham Theatre

Recommended grades: 4-12
Performance duration: 60 min

With athleticism, grace, and unparalleled innovation, Parsons Dance creates unforgettable contemporary performances that amaze audiences.

Connect with the artists in a post-show Q&A.

Reservations for individuals (10 people or less): $12 each. To reserve, complete the Student Series Reservation Form, call the box office at 828-257-4530 ext. 1, or email [email protected].

Reservations for groups (11 people or more): $11 each. To reserve, complete the Student Series Reservation Form. Please note that all group reservations require a deposit of $1 per ticket. Please contact the box office if you have questions.






PARSONS DANCE
Jan 26 @ 8:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

As one of the world’s premier contemporary dance companies, this talented troupe showcases a dynamic fusion of styles that combines athleticism, grace and unparalleled innovation. Through endless creativity and self-expression, striking choreography and powerful music, Parsons Dance creates unforgettable performances that push the boundaries of dance and bring life-affirming artistry to audiences across the globe.

Connect with the art and artists

  • Dance workshop — details forthcoming
  • Pre-show discussions: January 26 & 27 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, January 27, 2024
PARSONS DANCE
Jan 27 @ 8:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

As one of the world’s premier contemporary dance companies, this talented troupe showcases a dynamic fusion of styles that combines athleticism, grace and unparalleled innovation. Through endless creativity and self-expression, striking choreography and powerful music, Parsons Dance creates unforgettable performances that push the boundaries of dance and bring life-affirming artistry to audiences across the globe.

Connect with the art and artists

  • Dance workshop — details forthcoming
  • Pre-show discussions: January 26 & 27 at 7 p.m.
THE TAYLOR PARTY: THE TS DANCE PARTY
Jan 27 @ 8:00 pm
The Orange Peel
Ages 18+

Hey, Lovers!

Are you ready for it?

THE TAYLOR PARTY, the original Taylor Swift Inspired Dance Party ✨

💃 Come shake it off at our enchanting evening of Swifties, singing and dancing through all TS iconic Eras.

Pick your Eras outfit, bring your besties, and come party in style! 🕶️

Long live the magic we’ll make. 💎

Sunday, February 4, 2024
Old Farmer’s Ball Annual Meeting + Dance
Feb 4 @ 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
 Bryson Gym, Warren Wilson

Annual Meeting And Dance

Date:          February  4, 2024 / Sunday

Time:         5:00 to 9:00 pm

5 to 6 pm – Snacks & Socializing

6 to 7 pm –  Meeting

7 to 9 pm –  Dance / Lagomorph with David Winston calling

Location:  Bryson Gym, Warren Wilson

Meeting Agenda:

  • Introductions: (10seconds each)
  • Recap of the previous year
  • Presentation of the budget approved by the board.
  • Committees
  • Nominations for new board members
  • Vote on the new board incoming board members
  • Presentation mission and vision of CDSS
  • Open discussion
Wednesday, February 7, 2024
Westie Wednesdays at Continuum ft. Ryan Pflumm
Feb 7 @ 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
CONTINUUM ART

Help us relaunch the Westie scene in a premier venue showcasing spacious dance floors, high ceilings, and a vintage vibe. If you are new to West Coast Swing, come check out for yourself the popular dance style that can be done to a wide variety of music, including pop, country, blues, and contemporary music! For those looking to advance their skills, the Hendersonville WCS community is excited to welcome Pro Instructor Ryan Pflumm to Continuum!

As always, the dress is casual and no partner is needed. Join us for an incredible night of connecting and dancing with our MONTHLY event every FIRST Wednesday!

PRIVATE LESSONS
If you would like to book a private lesson with Ryan for $75 per hour, please message Continuum with the following:

  1. Which timeslot(s)
  2. number of people attending
    Times:
    3:30-4:30pm
    4:30-5:30pm
    5:30-6:30pm
    first come, first served

CLASSES
7:00-8:00pm Intermediate w/ Ryan Pflumm!
7:00-8:00pm Beginner w/ Rachel Harris
8:00-10:00pm Social Dance

Each class is $10 and includes a pass to the social dance. The social dance is $7 without a lesson. Music will be DJ’d by Pro Instructor Ryan Pflumm.

Bring your own beer/wine. Liquor and other beverages above 16% alcohol content are strictly prohibited.

Masks are encouraged but, not required.

Cash, cards, Venmo, PayPal, and Cash app are accepted.

Thursday, February 8, 2024
LaDonna Smith and Susan Hefner / John English and Kris Gruda
Feb 8 @ 7:00 pm
Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center

LaDonna Smith and Susan Hefner

LaDonna Smith and Susan Hefner have a long relationship of working together in creative collaborations. Beginning in 1976, Susan was part of a dance group of young improvisers who collaborated in one of the earliest TransMuseq concerts. She was only 16 years old at the time! Embarking on a career in dance & improvisation she worked with the Alwin Nicolais Dance Theater. She was Director/choreographer of Susan Hefner and Dancers as well as continual improvisatory explorations with LaDonna Smith and Davey Williams TransMuseq projects in Alabama as well as projects & improvisers in the Brooklyn-NYC scene. Significantly, she co-created performance art with percussionist Michael Evans and currently is curator of her Susan’s Salons in both Birmingham and Brooklyn.

Her work often grows from visual wit and ironic images, intended to deliver an irreverent message of freedom while lampooning societal rigidities. Zany images are brought to life through a feminist lens, and the dance language is drawn from physical manifestations of human emotions. Through a process of improvisation and revision she seeks a range of authentic expression, human and vulnerable. Susan and LaDonna will come together for one of a kind collaborative performance at BMCM+AC.

John English is an improviser and photographer from Black Mountain, North Carolina. Kris Gruda is an avant-garde guitarist, sound experimenter, and songwriter based in western North Carolina. He plays in solo and group contexts on electric or acoustic with or without electronics. His guitar-in-car album, Kris Gruda Plays for You, was released on Palilalia Records in 2023. FreeJazzRockSoulNoise.etc.

Friday, February 9, 2024
80s vs 90s Dance Party
Feb 9 @ 8:00 pm
The Orange Peel

All Ages

Rouge: A Cirque and Dance Concert
Feb 9 @ 8:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Expect the unexpected! From Charlotte, Caroline Calouche & Co is making their debut in Asheville with Rouge: A Cirque and Dance Cabaret. Rouge features daring aerial acts, thrilling acrobatics and poetic dance that cannot be missed. The Madame of Ceremonies is your guide for a mesmerizing good time that holds audiences spellbound. Rouge is the perfect event for a date night or night out with friends.

https://www.carolinecalouche.org/

Rouge: Cirque and Dance Cabaret
Feb 9 @ 8:00 pm
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Expect the Unexpected!
Rouge features daring aerial acts, thrilling acrobatics and poetic dance that cannot be missed. The Madame of Ceremonies is your guide for a mesmerizing good time that holds audiences spellbound. Rouge is the perfect event for a date night or night out with friends.

Saturday, February 10, 2024
Adult Beginner Tap 1: Intro to Tap
Feb 10 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Hendersonville Theatre

Does Tap dancing seem a little daunting? Is it something you always wanted to try but didn’t have the time to commit to months of classes at a time? Whether you are preparing for a show with tap involved or just interested in a new skill for fun, this class is for you. Allison Starling will break down the basics of Tap into easy-to-catch moves that build the foundation of any Tap number. This 8-week class is a comprehensive basics course that you don’t want to miss!

*Tap shoes required and not provided. Below is a link to some reasonably priced shoes. Make sure to order early so your shoes are here in time!

Adult Beginner Tap 2: Kicking it up a Notch
Feb 10 @ 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Hendersonville Theatre

It’s time to build on the basics you learned in Intro to Tap while still refining those foundational steps. Whether you are preparing for a show with tap involved or just interested in a new skill for fun, this class is for you. Allison Starling will break down the basics of Tap into easy-to-catch moves that build the foundation of any Tap number. This 8-week class is a continuation of beginner tap that will push you to learn harder steps and combinations while still allowing you to learn at your own pace!

WNC Dance Repertory Company Benefit Showcase
Feb 10 @ 5:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

WNC Dance Academy presents our annual winter benefit concert featuring the WNC Dance Repertory Company, Stewart/Owen Dance, and other professional local artists.

Going Nowhere Fast – Emo Night
Feb 10 @ 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm
DSSOLVR

EMO NIGHT IS BACK BABY! THIS TIME, WE’RE GOING ON TOUR!

Get ready for…
🖤😭 DSSOLVR’S SUPER EMO VALENTINE’S WEEKEND! 😭🖤
02/10 in Asheville starting at 6pm

Featuring:
-Sing along with DJ XZANEINSANEX @zanebuchholz, @djdeckades, and @dj_sellout
-The Release of Emo Nightmare GF Sour
-Swoopy Hair Photo Booth
-One time only Emo long sleeve shirts
-The Return of L.G. FUAD Jello Shots
-VIP Tour Badges
-Probably more stuff that I forgot

Then the party continues, on Sunday with the BIG GAME playing in both taprooms. 😭💀🏈💀😭💀🏈💀😭💀🏈💀😭

Party on,
xXDSSOLVRXx

Sunday, February 11, 2024
Kids Artistic Review Dance Competition
Feb 11 all-day
Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium

KAR is dedicated to producing world class dance events that provide rewarding and positive experiences for dancers, teachers, and parents. Our competitions give dancers across America the opportunity to showcase their talent and passion on the KAR stage. We also proudly acknowledge the achievements and excellence of dance teachers, choreographers, and parents and appreciate their efforts in helping to make dreams come true! KAR is honored to be recognized as America’s Favorite Dance Competition and look forward to seeing the amazing talent your city has to offer!

Kendra Bunch

(714) 826-8440 ext 1020
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
DRUM TAO 夢幻響
Feb 13 @ 7:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Experience the thrilling rhythms of Japan, the electrifying energy of passionate, percussive performance and the otherworldly theatrical flair of these professional taiko drummers. With vibrant costumes, synchronized movements and thunderous beats, Drum Tao creates a mesmerizing spectacle that’s sure to be an unforgettable evening of entertainment — delivering the spirit of traditional Japanese drumming with all the excitement of contemporary culture.

Fat Tuesday Fiesta ft Tuxedo Junction
Feb 13 @ 7:00 pm
The Grey Eagle
Doors Open: 6:00 PM
-ALL AGES
-MIXED SEATED and STANDING SHOW with DANCE FLOOR

TUXEDO JUNCTION

Calling all music lovers, dancers, and supporters of a worthy cause! Celebrate Mardi Gras during a singular evening benefitting the Asheville Breakfast Rotary Foundation! Tuxedo Junction covers a HUGE variety of danceable hits from Swing Jazz to Classic Rock, Pop, Funk, Motown, Beach, Country, and Rockabilly! All proceeds go back into the community for charitable organizations and scholarships.

STEP AFRIKA!
Feb 13 @ 7:30 pm
Peace Concert Hall

Founded in 1994 by C. Brian Williams, Step Afrika! is the first professional company dedicated to the tradition of stepping—a polyrhythmic, percussive dance form that uses the body as an instrument. Under Mr. Williams’ leadership, stepping has evolved into one of America’s cultural exports, touring more than 50 countries across the globe. Step Afrika! is one of the top 10 African American dance companies in the world.  Step Afrika! promotes stepping as a contemporary dance genre through critically acclaimed performances and arts education programs. Creatively engaging audiences in this nascent art form, the Company creates full-length productions that expand on stepping’s unique American history.

Step Afrika! blends percussive dance styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities; traditional West and Southern African dances; and an array of contemporary dance and art forms into a cohesive, compelling artistic experience. Performances are much more than dance shows; they integrate songs, storytelling, humor, and audience participation. The blend of technique, agility, and pure energy makes each performance unique and leaves the audience with their hearts pounding.

The Company reaches tens of thousands of Americans each year through a 50-city tour of colleges and theatres and performs globally as Washington, DC’s one and only Cultural Ambassador. Step Afrika! has earned Mayor’s Arts Awards for Outstanding Contribution to Arts Education (2005); Innovation in the Arts (2008); and Excellence in an Artistic Discipline (2012); and performed at the White House for President Barack Obama and the First Lady.

Critically Acclaimed works, such as The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence and Drumfolk, tour major U.S. cities. Step Afrika! is prominently featured at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture with an interactive exhibit on the art form of stepping.

Wednesday, February 14, 2024
Wortham Center Student Series DRUM TAO 夢幻響
Feb 14 @ 10:00 am
Diana Wortham Theatre

Recommended for grades 3-9
Performance duration: 60 min.

Experience the thrilling rhythms of Japan in a percussive and mesmerizing spectacle by this company of professional taiko drummers. With vibrant costumes, synchronized movements and thunderous beats, Drum Tao creates a mesmerizing spectacle that’s sure to be an unforgettable evening of entertainment — delivering the spirit of traditional Japanese drumming with all the excitement of contemporary culture.

Reservations for individuals (10 people or less): $12 each. To reserve, complete the Student Series Reservation Form, call the box office at 828-257-4530 ext. 1, or email [email protected].

Reservations for groups (11 people or more): $11 each. To reserve, complete the Student Series Reservation Form. Please note that all group reservations require a deposit of $1 per ticket. Please contact the box office if you have questions.






Sponsored by

DRUM TAO 夢幻響
Feb 14 @ 7:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre

Experience the thrilling rhythms of Japan, the electrifying energy of passionate, percussive performance and the otherworldly theatrical flair of these professional taiko drummers. With vibrant costumes, synchronized movements and thunderous beats, Drum Tao creates a mesmerizing spectacle that’s sure to be an unforgettable evening of entertainment — delivering the spirit of traditional Japanese drumming with all the excitement of contemporary culture.

Thursday, February 15, 2024
Free Line Dancing and Two-Stepping
Feb 15 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Banks Ave Bar
Steppin’ Out AVL presents “Butts & Boots,” free line-dancing and two-stepping, with lessons included. No boots, partner or experience needed.
Come and learn some fun, easy line dances in a friendly, inclusive environment.
Sunday, February 18, 2024
Family Dance
Feb 18 @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Harvest House Community Center

Old Farmer’s Ball hosts family dances and waltzes at the Harvest House Community Center.

Mission & Vision

Our mission is to bring joy to our community by cultivating folk and social dance and music traditions.

Our vision is of people coming together to experience the joy of dance and music.

Values

  • Welcoming – A safe and inviting space for dancers, musicians, and callers.
  • Community – We value respect, inclusiveness, diversity, consent, and multigenerational interaction.
  • Ownership – Volunteer investment in the organization.
  • Joy/Smiles – Presence in the moment.
  • Development – Artistic growth and skill of callers, musicians, and dancers.
Monday, February 19, 2024
Monday Night Dance: Community contra dance
Feb 19 @ 8:15 pm – 10:30 pm
St. George's Center for Art and Spirit

Welcome to our weekly community contra dance in West Asheville!  The Monday Night Dance has been around for decades, and we are carrying the torch forward! We are a loving, kind, and safe dance community and highly encourage masking during the dance. No derogatory comments in relation to masking will be tolerated! We encourage non-maskers to mask while partnering with a dancer wearing a mask, or to at least ask if the person would like them to mask while they dance with them.

Practicalities

Time: Contra dancing 8:15–10:30pm, with a beginner lesson starting at 7:45 and a waltz session ending the evening.

Location: St. George’s Center for Art and Spirit, 1 School Rd., Asheville, NC 28806

Cost: $12–$45 sliding scale, CASH ONLY. Please pay as much as you can afford to cover the cost of the wonderful live music, the caller, sound person, rent, and other expenses! ATMs are available at banks on Patton Ave., as well as cash back options at local gas stations and grocery stores.

Requirements: Face masks and sign-in agreeing to the dance’s Safety Guidelines.

Please enter through the front red doors to the sanctuary. Extra parking available in the lots between Moore’s Foot and Ankle and St. George’s (please avoid parking in front of their practice.) This is a scent-free dance. Please bring your own water and water bottle. Beginners are encouraged to attend! Beginner-friendly dances start the contra dancing in lieu of a lesson.

Community Focus

The Monday Night Dance is more than just a dance; the community is deeply rooted. Folks are welcome to sell their wares, like jewelry, dance shoes, dance clothes, pottery, etc. They are also welcome to leave business cards and help wanted or work needed ads. Additionally, the Take Some Leave Some Closet is a new feature of the MND. You can take any clothes, food, produce, feminine products or first aid supplies that we have, and as you are able you can also leave some to replenish. Private times to receive from the closet can also be arranged during the week depending on to the dance organizer’s availability.

Safety

We emphasize safety here at the MND. Mask wearing is strongly encouraged, and courtesy to those choosing to mask is required. No discrimination to those wearing masks will be tolerated! In addition, this is a family and LGBTQ-friendly dance and a safe event for ALL races, ethnicities, genders, ages, shapes, and sizes. Accordingly, no discrimination, inappropriate sexually predatory behavior, racist or discriminatory comments, bullying, or verbal or physical abuse of ANY kind will be tolerated. See our Safety Guidelines for more info.

Volunteers and Donations

Ours is a dance built on volunteerism, and we need your help to survive! Please consider volunteering or becoming a patron by giving a monetary gift. Opening, door and closing help are some of the volunteer jobs available. Those completing their entire shift dance free! Email [email protected] for more info and to sign up. 

Finally, please follow, like and join us on Facebook!

Thanks so much and see you on the dance floor!

Thursday, February 22, 2024
Free Line Dancing and Two-Stepping
Feb 22 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Banks Ave Bar
Steppin’ Out AVL presents “Butts & Boots,” free line-dancing and two-stepping, with lessons included. No boots, partner or experience needed.
Come and learn some fun, easy line dances in a friendly, inclusive environment.
City Dance
Feb 22 @ 7:30 pm
Landmark Hal

Beginner’s workshop lesson at 7:30 P.M., then 8-11 P.M. Contra Dance with Country Waltzing at the break and the final dance. This is a partner dance but it’s not necessary to come with a partner. We have different live bands and callers.

Old Farmer’s Ball Thursday Dance
Feb 22 @ 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Bryson Gym Warren Wilson College

Our Thursday Dance

This dance is fragrance-free (no perfume, cologne, strong deodorant, etc.), out of respect for those with sensitivities.

Schedule

  • Every Thursday night (except as indicated on the calendar)
  • Beginner lesson at 7:30 pm (advanced dancers are welcome to help out during the lesson!)
  • Dance 8 pm – 11 pm

Cost

  • Non-members: $12
  • OFB Members: $10
  • Warren Wilson community: $1

If this is your first time dancing with us, your second dance is free!