The Laurel of Asheville

Blue Ridge Orchestra's "Boom-De-Ay" May 2nd, ACRHS
2026-05-02 15:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | A.C. Reynolds High School, 1 Rocket Drive, Asheville, 28803
Ta-Ra-Ra, “BOOM-DE-AY”− The Blue Ridge Orchestra echoes its previous program (Ta-Ra-Ra), while celebrating the spirited 26th season finale under the leadership of Music Director Dr. Emily Mariko Eng. The BRO ‘Booms’ with percussive explosions in Natalie Williams’s Sonic Boom, Chaminade’s Callirhoë Suite, Stravinsky’s “Berceuse” and “Finale” from the 1919 version of the Suite from The Firebird, and Ravel’s orchestration of Mussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition.”
“These works are just thrilling,” says Music Director Emily Eng. “Our program celebrates some of the most percussive moments in the orchestral repertoire. But don’t worry: not everything is loud and booming. Soft and sensitive passages build to the moments of triumph and grandeur. We look forward to bringing you on that journey with us!”
The BRO’s home at UNC Asheville is undergoing a multi-year scheduled renovation. While displaced from Lipinsky Hall, we are thrilled to express reverberating, joyful melodies at venues near you! Our passionate group of volunteer musicians will perform in the historically famous A.C.Reynolds High School Auditorium, east of Asheville, and the renowned Diana Wortham Theatre in downtown Asheville.
Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, 3:00 pm
A.C.Reynolds High School
1 Rocket Drive
Asheville, NC 28803
Sunday, May 3rd, 2026, 3:00 pm
Diana Wortham Theatre
Wortham Center for the Performing Arts
18 Biltmore Ave.
Asheville, NC 28801
Tickets: Pricing varies per venue. Please visit our event page for accurate rates. Children 6 and under are always free.
Info:https://blueridgeorchestra.org/boom-de-ay-may-2026, Facebook, Instagram, or call 828-782-3354.

PATIO SHOW: Forty Drop Few & Vaiano’s Paisanos
2026-05-02 17:00 - 19:00 | The Grey Eagle Music Hall and Pub, 185 Clingman Ave, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
– LIMITED PATIO SEATING IS FIRST COME FIRST SERVE
FORTY DROP FEW & VAIANO’S PAISANOS
The “Forty Drop Few” are a trio originally from the southwest that play popular music of the early 1900s. They perform in various styles from the era as a string band and are influenced by nothing other than the old 78 records that they love so well. Their main influences include New Orleans jazz, southwestern fiddle music, classic banjo rags, black string band music, hillbilly harmonies and unique vocals. The trio consists of Ethan Francis, Candra Edwards and Elliot Kennedy who all currently reside in Portland Oregon. The couple, also known as “Stone and Sue” have been playing music together for a decade and met Kennedy who joined them 6 years ago. The three are inseparable and spend all of their time picking apart old tunes, listening to 78s, throwing shows in Portland and traveling around the country together.
Vaiano’s Paisanos, the string band, founded by Rachel Meirs (violin, mandolin); Maxwell Apra(mandolin, tenor banjo, tenor guitar); and Van Burchfield (guitar)—which sometimes balloons to a quintet, thanks to Quentin Bardinet (mandolin, tenor banjo, tenor guitar) and Albanie Faletta (guitar)—is a melting pot of old- instrumentation, with international repertoire gathered from recordings made in New York City. Though the musicians in the band met busking in New Orleans, fiddler in chief Meirs, now based in Louisville, KY, first encountered some of the recordings that inspired this project while working at the Jalopy Theatre over a decade ago. Following in the grand tradition of musical discovery and dissemination by Jalopy Records labelmate and musicological genius Pat Conte, curator of the acclaimed Secret Museum archival reissue series, Vaiano’s Paisanos’ repertoire consists of the masterful melodies immigrants would’ve been humming along and dancing to in the late ’20s and early ’30s. Think Cape Verdean fiddle tunes, Italian mandolin music, pre-Belafonte Calypsos, and Venezuelan waltzes. “Almost everything in our repertoire was originally recorded in New York City,” explains Meirs. “It’s not that we chose to play immigrant music; it’s that we come from a society largely made up of immigrants, and this music is a beautiful byproduct of that melting pot, as are we.” We owe our gratitude to the musicians who originally composed, played, and eventually recorded this music, who all came from different countries and traditions, and all recorded in New York in the 1920’s and 30’s. Of course, we would not have heard any of these songs if not for the people who seek out and and collect old 78’s, and who found ways to share what was on them, so that they eventually made their way to our ears in compilations, blog posts, discord channels, youtube videos, or a CD burned and sent in the mail.

Full Moon Sound Journey in the Salt Cave
2026-05-02 18:00 - 19:00 | Asheville Salt Cave, 12 Eagle St., Asheville, North Carolina, 28801
The Full Moon is a time of illumination, reflection, and release. Join Latoya for a guided sound journey in the tranquil Salt Cave, where meditation and the healing vibrations of sound invite deep relaxation and inner alignment with the rhythms of the lunar cycle.

Hendersonville Ballet presents "The Enchanted Garden of Le Corsaire and other works""
2026-05-02 19:00 - 20:00 | Blue Ridge Community College, Bo Thomas Auditorium, 180 W Campus Dr, Flat Rock, Henderson County, North Carolina 28731, Flat Rock, NC, 28731, United States
Hendersonville Ballet presents “The Enchanted Garden from Le Corsaire” also featuring the music of French artist “Indila” with original choreography by Betsy Dixon and “Reflections on Helene” with original choreography by Joy Shanahan on May 1-2, 2026 at 7pm at the Thomas Auditorium on the Blue Ridge Community College campus. Tickets available online and at the door.

Eyes Up Here Comedy: Mother's Day Edition
2026-05-02 19:00 - 21:00 | Ginger’s Revenge, 829 Riverside Drive, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
Modelface Comedy presents Eyes Up Here Comedy at Ginger’s Revenge! We are celebrating Mother’s in Comedy!!
Eyes Up Here Comedy is a night featuring all femme comedians and this month we have a special show featuring comedians from Asheville and around the South East. Hosted by local favorite Erin Terry.
ages 18+
doors at 6:30pm, show at 7pm
Tickets $18 GA, $23 Premium Seating

Tryon Little Theater's "Steel Magnolias"
2026-05-02 19:30 - 21:30, 2026-05-03 15:00 - 17:00, 2026-05-07 19:30 - 21:30 | Tryon Little Theater Workshop, 516 S. Trade St., Tryon, 28782
Theater production

The Nude Party
2026-05-02 20:00 - 23:30 | The Grey Eagle Music Hall and Pub, 185 Clingman Ave, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
ALL AGES
STANDING ROOM ONLY
THE NUDE PARTY
For The Nude Party, nearly a decade has flown by in the blink of an eye. In that time, the New York-based band has released a pair of well-received albums, an EP, and played countless shows. Prior to the pandemic, the band was really starting to hit its stride. They had a system in place and were spreading their brand of melodic rock to the masses. In fact, they could count Jack White, Arctic Monkeys, and Orville Peck as vocal supporters, which led to support slots for each. Soon, incredible live appearances at Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, Newport Folk Festival, and Shaky Knees became the norm.
Over the course of the last two years, The Nude Party decided to produce their new album, Rides On, themselves. With the help of Matthew Horner, The Nude Party had as much fun creating as they ever had at any other point in their career. Their new album includes 14 songs that dabble in electro-pop and stripped-down country. The Nude Party coalesced and embraced the spirit of collaboration. They’re excited to begin the next chapter of their career.
At a time when it would have been easy to pack it in, the band continues to persevere.
TOBACCO CITY
Tobacco City is a Chicago-based band that blends cosmic country with a mix of psychedelic rock and honky-tonk soul. Their sound captures the essence of small-town nostalgia while embracing modern-day themes, exploring heartache, longing, and the bittersweet nature of life. With their uplifting energy and authentic songwriting, Tobacco City continues to carve out a unique space in the country-tinged Americana scene.

Witching Hour, Dark and Dirty Comedy
2026-05-02 21:00 - 23:00 | Eda Rhyne, 101 Fairview Rd, Asheville, 28803
Modelface Comedy presents The Witching Hour Comedy Showcase at Eda Rhyne Distillery
Witching Hour is a dark and dirty comedy show featuring some of the filthiest comics in the South!! Combining dark humor with hauntingly delicious Appalachian cocktails.
This show is ages 21 and up and NC17
Doors at 8:30pm, show at 9pm
Tickets $15 advance, $18 day of

Yoga Taco Mosa
2026-05-03 10:00 - 11:00 | The Grey Eagle Music Hall and Pub, 185 Clingman Ave, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
Join us for Yoga Taco Mosa the first Sunday of every month.
This is a donation based slow flow class lead by the ever so lovely, Clare Desmelik.
Bring your yoga mat, water bottle and an open heart while we honor one another and stretch into our Sunday.
We’ll follow the class with tacos and mimosas at The Grey Eagle Taqueria.

COLD WAX ALCHEMY WORKSHOP WITH GINA LOUTHIAN-STANLEY - DAY 2
2026-05-03 10:00 - 15:00 | Lucy Clark Gallery & Studio, 51 West Main Street, Brevard, NC, 28712, United States
Discover the beautiful layers, textures, and marks that only oil and cold wax can achieve finding inspiration within your own marks, compositions and intuition during this three-day workshop with artist Gina Louthian-Stanley. We will explore various techniques such as working methods, substrates, drying times, opaque and transparent color, pigments and powders, blending, color schemes, glazing, solvent reduction, transfer and printmaking techniques, creating textures, adding collage and more. Plenty of demos and individual discussions.
All skill levels would benefit from this class, especially beginners. (Advanced techniques are an option for those who have taken a prior class.)

Blue Ridge Orchestra's "Boom-De-Ay" May 3rd, Diana Wortham Theatre
2026-05-03 15:00 - 17:00 | Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 S. Pack Square, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States

JORTS! A Comedy Show in Shorts
2026-05-03 19:00 - 21:00 | The River Arts District Brewing Company, 13 Mystery Street, Asheville, 28801
Modelface Comedy presents JORTS! a stand up comedy showcase featuring hot comedy and even hotter knees!
Put on your best jorts or cut up some jeans and make a new pair because tonight we are rolling knees out!
All the comedians will be rocking their best pair and we want to see y’all in yours.
Daisy duke to John Cena, all jort styles welcome
Prizes for all audience members rocking a pair!!
ages 18+
doors at 6:30pm, show at 7pm
Tickets $15

Cass McCombs + Band: Interior Live Oak Live
2026-05-03 20:00 - 23:30 | The Grey Eagle Music Hall and Pub, 185 Clingman Ave, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
ALL AGES
STANDING ROOM ONLY
CASS McCOMBS
Over the past twenty plus years, Cass McCombs has journeyed a singular path as an uncompromising song-carver, guitarist and singer.
Along with the finest squadron of collaborators and bandmates, his music travels gracefully over seemingly contradictory terrain, from infectious guitar riffage to intensely personal lyricism.
In August 2025, Cass released his newest album “Interior Live Oak” to rave reviews including 5 stars from the Guardian, an 8.1 from Pitchfork who said “16 songs and not a throwaway among them…,” a 9/10 from Uncut Magazine, and a rave from Mojo magazine who said “…this is the kind of record it’s impossible to be casual about.”
Interior Live Oak is his most personal album to date, and, more than any previous record, shows his vast range as a lyricist and musician. It draws from everything Cass has created over two decades of experimentation to cut through with a direct and clarifying light.
Cass McCombs will embark on his “Interior Live Oak Live” tour over 2026. He lives in New York City.
LAEL NEALE
Lael Neale’s minimalist drone pop draws inspiration from the Transcendentalists, the alienation of modern life, and a rich array of musical influences—ranging from Dionne Warwick and John Lennon to primitive American gospel and Spacemen 3. Her expansive new record, Altogether Stranger, was written and recorded in the early morning quiet of Los Angeles. Clocking in at just 32 minutes, the 9-song LP covers an unexpected breadth of musical and lyrical terrain—from garage rock nursery rhymes and creation myths to Motorik dance dirges and solitary Omnichord meditations. A brilliant lyricist, Neale has a unique ability to uncover the extraordinary within the mundane, tackling themes of polarity that recur throughout her work—country vs. city, humanity vs. technology, isolation vs. society. This album is her third collaboration with producer Guy Blakeslee who helps expand the tonal palette while staying true to Neale’s commitment to the raw immediacy and hand-made intimacy of home recording.

Metalsmithing 101: The Basics 3-Part Series May 4/11/18
2026-05-04 09:00 - 2026-05-18 14:30 | Ignite Jewelry Studios, 84 W Walnut St Unit A, Asheville, 28801
Want to learn to make jewelry? This beginner friendly metalsmithing course teaches the basic skills involved in making your own jewelry. Learn to use a variety of tools and equipment common in a jewelry studio.
This 3 Day Series will teach many techniques including sawing, filing, polishing, soldering, textures, and more!
Included is 4 Open Studio sessions (Wed/Thurs 11-4) valid for 2 months from class start.
Class Times 9am-2:30 pm
Materials Fee: $55 -due at class
Class Times: Mondays 9am-2:30pm May 4/11/18
By the end of the series each students will have at least 2-3 finished jewelry pieces and likely many more!

COLD WAX ALCHEMY WORKSHOP WITH GINA LOUTHIAN-STANLEY - DAY 3
2026-05-04 10:00 - 15:00 | Lucy Clark Gallery & Studio, 51 West Main Street, Brevard, NC, 28712, United States

Butterfly Garden Stakes
2026-05-04 13:00 - 16:30 | Arrowhead Gallery and Studios, 77 Catawba Ave.,, Old Fort, 28762
Create some flutters in your garden!
Students will use pre-cut glass to create their own butterfly; learn how to clean, foil, flux, and solder their creation together.
Copper embellishments and findings can be added to make your butterfly unique. Suitable for outdoor or indoor use.
All materials supplied, including stakes or hardware to hang your piece.

Asheville Symphony Masterworks 7: Unbroken
2026-05-04 14:00 - 16:00 | First Baptist Church of Asheville, 5 Oak Street, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
Two performances: 2pm and 8pm
Darko Butorac, conductor
Adam Golka, piano
The Asheville Symphony’s season finale opens with RAINN, a newly commissioned work by Karena Ingram, whose music is celebrated for its vivid textures. Mozart’s twenty-third piano concerto follows, balancing sophistication with elegance. Finally, Shostakovich’s striking Tenth emerges from darkness into light; searing drama gives way to triumphant resolution as Shostakovich makes a powerful declaration of personal and artistic resilience.
Ingram: RAINN
Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 23
Shostakovich: Symphony No. 10

Free Art Class for Kids!
2026-05-04 14:00 - 2026-12-13 16:00 | Arrowhead Gallery and Studios, 77 Catawba Ave.,, Old Fort, 28762
The Free Art Class for kids happens on the first Sunday of every month from 2 pm to 4 pm. The classes use different media and are taught by volunteer artists who want to share their love of Art with others!
All supplies will be provided.
Join us for an afternoon of fun and learning!
MUST REGISTER ONLINE BEFORE CLASS

Built To Spill w/ The Hypos
2026-05-04 20:00 - 23:30 | The Grey Eagle Music Hall and Pub, 185 Clingman Ave, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
ALL AGES
STANDING ROOM ONLY
BUILT TO SPILL
Built to Spill was formed in 1993 by Doug Martsch and over the years they have toured extensively and made several albums with a rotating cast of musicians, currently featuring Teresa Esguerra (Prism Bitch) on drums, and Melanie Radford (Blood Lemon) on bass.
THE HYPOS
The Hypos are an Asheville, NC/ Memphis, TN band built around the collaboration of veteran songwriters Greg Cartwright (Reigning Sound, Oblivians) and Scott McMicken (Dr Dog, Ever-Expanding). Their eponymous debut album is a playful blend of sounds and styles that is wonderfully hard to categorize but easy to enjoy. Joined by Evan Martin on drums, Kevin Williams on bass and Krista Wroten on violin, the Hypos world is a lush landscape of bouncing rhythms and Earthy acoustics. Scott’s unmistakable voice, brimming with curiosity and wonder, makes the perfect traveling companion to Greg’s road worn croon as they investigate all the sonic possibilities on their 10 song LP. Also, they like Frogs. A lot. What else do you need to know? Oh yeah, this fine album was lovingly mixed by Matt Ross-Spang.

SPIRITED IMPROV GROUP PLAYSHOP SERIES
2026-05-05 12:00 - 14:00 | Homewood, 19 Zillicoa St, Asheville, NC, 28801
ABOUT SPIRITED IMPROV
Spirited Improv is a unique fusion of expressive arts, spiritual practice, and group play that helps you release fear, trust the unknown, and show up as your truest self.
Spirited Improv is a soul-centered community experience that uses improvisational play as the container for spiritual growth, personal transformation, and authentic connection.
Rather than focusing on comedy or performance, we use improv as a living practice, one that invites presence, trust, curiosity, and responsiveness in the moment.
Facilitated by Jessica Chilton, who brings over 20 years of improvisational performing arts experience and 16 years as an expressive arts therapist, weaving creativity, spirituality, and presence into a safe, transformative group experience.
WHAT PAST PARTICIPANTS ARE SAYING
“Spirited Improv is authentic, vulnerable and connective. It meets my need to deeply feel, be seen and see others. On my first night I experienced such a profound healing experience after sharing what was on my heart. It was like a sound, healing touch, full moon energy bath that opened my heart. ” ~ Kate
“Spirited Improv is a fun and little bit edgy way of interacting with the mystery of the moment. You decide how much you want to interact or observe from the audience so you never have to do anything you don’t want to do. It is an opportunity to let go of control and explore the spontaneity of life and creativity in a supportive, safe environment..” ~ Kenyon
“I got to play, move my body, laugh, take joy in watching my friends come alive, give and receive big hugs, and feel the presence of the ancestors who always join me. There’s something so sacred about being present with others while we play, witness and embody what is.” ~ Sue
WHO IS THIS FOR
People drawn to spirituality, personal growth, and inner exploration
Those seeking genuine connection, community, and a sense of belonging
Creatives and non-creatives alike – no improv or performance experience needed
Individuals who value compassion, openness, and radical acceptance
People who want to grow in joyful, embodied ways rather than through heavy or rigid processes
Those who want to make a positive impact by starting with inner transformation
If you’re open, curious, and willing to show up as you are—you belong here.

DANCE WITH THE DEAD + MAGIC SWORD: The Face Off Tour 2026
2026-05-05 20:00 - 23:30 | The Grey Eagle Music Hall and Pub, 185 Clingman Ave, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
ALL AGES
STANDING ROOM ONLY
DANCE WITH THE DEAD
Drawing inspiration from the dystopian and chilling worlds of cult classic horror and science-fiction films, duo Justin Pointer and Tony Kim have spent over a decade crafting a signature fusion of dark electronic music and metal-fueled synth anthems. Hailing from Irvine, California (USA), DANCE WITH THE DEAD continue to push the boundaries of retro-futuristic soundscapes and cinematic storytelling.
The project first emerged on Halloween night in 2013 with their debut release, setting the tone for a career defined by innovation and an ever-evolving sonic identity. Their early work—spanning atmospheric orchestral-leaning pieces and aggressive synth metal—solidified their presence with fan-favorite releases such as Into the Abyss (EP), Near Dark, and crossover hits like “Andromeda” and “Invader.” Their influence within the synthwave world earned them a featured appearance in the acclaimed documentary The Rise of the Synths, narrated by filmmaker John Carpenter.
DANCE WITH THE DEAD’s distinctive sound merges analog synth textures with the raw grit of early heavy metal guitars—a combination shaped by influences such as Hans Zimmer, Justice, Daft Punk, The Misfits, White Zombie, Ozzy Osbourne, Alice Cooper, Kavinsky, Metallica, and John Carpenter. Their catalog has featured notable collaborations as well, including guest contributions from John Carpenter and Cody Carpenter (Driven to Madness), as well as Nick Hipa and professional skateboarder Elliot Sloan (Loved to Death).
MAGIC SWORD
Magic Sword is an ageless tale of good and evil told through an ever expanding graphic novel with each volume accompanied by an original, synth-heavy soundtrack as well as immersive live performances. With the three mediums intertwined from conception, together they create an epic experience for those bold enough to bear witness and come away with a deeper understanding of the ultimate hero’s journey. Armed with a musical and visual aesthetic that has its roots unabashedly buried deep in the golden era of ‘70s and ‘80s fantasy and sci-fi, Magic Sword’s followers are called to another plane of existence where the struggle between light and shadow becomes all too real. The multiverse has aligned to bring the people of the land together for the birth of their album Endless, followed by a tour of the realm searching for the greater good.
MEGAN MCDUFFEE
Megan McDuffee is a Seattle-based award-winning music producer, composer, and recording artist. She grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, and always had something musical going on, from taking private lessons to 11 years of participating in world-traveling choirs. Megan graduated from the University of California Santa Cruz with a Bachelor of Arts in Film Scoring and a minor in Electronic Music. With a desire to further her education, she went on to the Berklee College of Music, earning a Master’s Certificate in Orchestration for Film and TV. By day Megan scores video games, TV shows, and movie trailers, and by night she produces dark, moody, edgy electronica and rock that rides the line between dreams and nightmares.

Simply Charmed - Drop-In
2026-05-06 11:00 - 2026-05-28 15:00 | Ignite Jewelry Studios, 84 W Walnut St Unit A, Asheville, 28801
**Show up at Ignite Jewelry Studios anytime between 11pm and 3pm to make your charms! This is the perfect way to spend a part of your day while visiting our downtown Asheville metalsmithing studio and gallery. Come stamp and hammer a charm to your liking! Choose from more than 60 styles of metal stamps and a variety of jewelers hammers to complete your charm. You will start with a rectangular brass base, (or upgrade to sterling silver in a variety of shapes and styles) then choose your silver accent piece, and finally a gemstone of choice. After a quick demo by the instructor you can spend the next 45 minutes to complete your masterpiece. Our magnetic tumbler will polish your piece to perfection and you have an option of some finishing patinas as well. Upgrade to earrings, make additional pendants for friends etc. $45 Base Price includes a brass charm, gemstone drop, jump ring, and base metal chain. (Some silver upgrades available for additional cost and additional pieces may be purchased to make gifts, extras, etc!) This is family friendly, kid friendly ages 6 and up (but the littles will need help with the hammering), and a great rainy day or indoor activity in downtown Asheville!

Asheville Improv Festival - Opening Night!
2026-05-06 18:30 - 20:30 | Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 S. Pack Square, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
Asheville Improv Festival | Night 1 | Wednesday 6:30PM
Doors: 5:30pm | Show: 6:30pm
Join us for opening night of the 2026 Asheville Improv Festival! Kicking off the Fest we’ve got a killer lineup of local and regional acts, performing at the wonderful Tina McGuire Theatre, located within the Wortham Center for the Arts in downtown Asheville!
The lineup:
Whimsical Groundhogs
Saturday Manitee
Gal Pals
Intermission
Tater Tits
5 Horsemen of Existentialism
Bernese Mountain Hogs

Jonathan Scales Fourchestra
2026-05-06 20:00 - 23:30 | The Grey Eagle Music Hall and Pub, 185 Clingman Ave, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
ALL AGES
SEATED SHOW
LIMITED NUMBER OF PREMIUM SEATING TICKETS AVAILABLE
JONATHAN SCALES FOURCHESTRA
You’ve heard this before, but the whimsically named Jonathan Scales Fourchestra is really tough to describe. Veering from in-your-face, jaw dropping chops and passion, to those quiet moments when the background noise disappears and you hold your breath to take in a soundscape of solitude, the power trio of electric bass (E’Lon JD), drums (Maison Guidry), and steel pans (Jonathan Scales) combines elements of jazz, classical, and progressive rock, peppered with Latin rhythms and soulful outbursts of funk. From club and festival stages across North America and Europe, and tours of Africa, Southeast and Central Asia as a Cultural Ambassador for the US Department of State, to their NPR Tiny Desk Concert featuring Béla Fleck, the Fourchestra’s live shows make even the most jaded listeners forget where they are… even if just for a precious moment.
This may seem an odd thing to say, but on the verge of releasing their eighth studio recording, Jonathan Scales Fourchestra is only now truly embracing their identity as a group. For many years, Jonathan’s live band was a fluid lineup of top-notch musicians, and even included an “all-star” version with bassist MonoNeon (Prince, Nas), drummer Sput Searight (Snarky Puppy, Snoop Dogg) and percussionist Weedie Braimah (Trombone Shorty, Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah), as well as a number of other marquee players. Now, however, the Fourchestra is a decidedly indivisible band, and Jonathan is writing for the trio, not just the pans.

Asheville Improv Festival - Thursday 5PM Show
2026-05-07 17:00 - 18:30 | Wortham Center for the Performing Arts, 18 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 28801
Asheville Improv Festival | Night 2 | Thursday 5PM
Doors: 4:30pm | Show: 5:00pm
Kicking off night 2 of the Fest at the wonderful Tina McGuire Theatre, located within the Wortham Center for the Arts in downtown Asheville, is a lineup featuring a local team, a team from the Raleigh/Durham area, a half local/half Denver team, and a team from DC literally called Half & Half.
The lineup below is in order of performance.
The lineup:
Aftermath (Asheville/Denver)
Half & Half (Washington, DC)
Mostly Millennials (Asheville)
Losing is OK (Asheville)
Play Cousinz (Raleigh/Durham)

Mosaic Art Walk & Benefit 2026
2026-05-07 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Asheville, participating galleries - details at MosaicArtWalk.com, Asheville, 28801
Mark your calendars for one of Asheville’s most anticipated spring evenings of art, community and connection. Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty’s Art Walk & Benefit returns on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 5 to 8 p.m., bringing together downtown Asheville’s vibrant creative scene in support of local nonprofits.
This free public event will unfold across 11 downtown Asheville galleries and creative spaces, inviting attendees to stroll from stop to stop to experience inspiring artwork and connect with organizations doing meaningful work in Western North Carolina. Each location will be paired with a different nonprofit partner and hosted by Mosaic agents, for a night that celebrates both creativity and impact – all against the eclectic backdrop and electric energy of downtown Asheville. Enter to win 11 local vacation raffle packages, curated by Mosaic brokers, with proceeds benefiting our 11 nonprofit partners. Find event details at MosaicArtWalk.com.

Antidote Comedy featuring Nathan Owens
2026-05-07 19:30 - 21:00 | antidote, 151 Coxe Avenue, Asheville, NC, 27106, United States
Every Thursday Modelface Comedy brings the best local and touring comedians to Asheville! This week we have Southern favorite Nathn Owens on the rooftop at Antidote!
Chemist Spirts welcomes top comedians for a night of laughs. Enjoy a stunning AVL sunset from the rooftop bar at Antidote while giggling and sipping a classic cocktail.
Nathan Owens is a stand up comedian from Atlanta and has traveled throughout the United States, Ireland, and the UK spreading his own brand of awkward funny. Proud to be born in West Virginia and raised in Georgia Nathan brings his own stories and unique observations to the stage. You can checkout his debut album Name Brand Human and watch the special on youtube now plus his latest drop Possum Daddy on youtube and wherever you listen to comedy! Nathan has opened for Dustin Nickerson, Brian Bates, Aaron Weber, Matt Braunger, Katherine Blandford, and many more!
ages 21+
doors at 7pm, show at 7:30pm
Tickets $15 advance, $18 day of

Slice Standup Comedy Contest
2026-05-07 19:30 - 21:30 | PULP Under The Orange Peel, 103 Hilliard Avenue, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
The Slice of Life Comedy Asheville Spring Standup Contest 🌼
Thursday May 7, 7:30p-9:30p, doors at 6:30p
The Orange Peel’s Comedy Basement, Pulp Lounge
103 Hilliard Ave, Downtown Asheville
Tickets: $18 (available at door or The Orange Peel website)
These shows sellout!
Hosted by Hilliary Begley from NETFLIX & AMAZON PRIME
Cocktails available while you laugh the night away to some of the area’s best Stand Up Comics in a ridiculously fun adult environment!!
Free snacks while availability lasts! You may bring your own food in (no outside drinks)!
How it Works:
Audience votes thru written ballots throughout the night. Comics on the show will do 3-5m of standup comedy. This show’s 3 top comics will be paid & brought back to compete in our spring pageant finale, date TBA.
Go to SliceofLifeComedy.com for more contest information. Contact Michele with any questions, or to sign up to perform at sliceoflifecomedy@gmail.com
