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Forget Netflix and your group chat—these 12 Louisville-area theatrical performances are delivering drama, laughter, and heart right to the stage. This season, local theater is not only good, it’s unmissable. There are star-studded musicals, free Shakespeare under the stars, edgy immersive plays and student mainstage masterpieces. Grab a seat, sip your cider and watch the curtain rise on the best drama our city has to offer.

Dreamgirls — Redline Performing Arts Pamela Brown Auditorium, 316 W. Main St., Louisville, KY 40202 Runs: Sept 19–28, 2025, evening shows generally 7:30 p.m. A powerhouse Motown-inspired musical full of show-stopping vocals, drama, and backstage heat. Perfect for fans of Broadway-caliber local productions. Broadway World
Emma (Kate Hamill adaptation) — Kentucky Shakespeare Pamela Brown Auditorium, 316 W. Main St., Louisville, KY 40202 Runs: Jan 9–18, 2026, evening shows 7:30 p.m. A witty, feminist take on Jane Austen’s classic. Screwball comedy, charming chaos, and plenty of stage sass make it a must-see. Playmakers Repertory Company
St. Lucy’s Eyes — University of Louisville Theatre Department University of Louisville Theatre, Belknap Campus, Louisville, KY 40292 Season: 2024–25 mainstage, times vary An emotionally charged, contemporary drama exploring family, identity, and resilience. UofL students bring strong performances and high production values. University of Louisville College of Arts & Sciences
Clyde’s — University of Louisville Theatre Department University of Louisville Theatre, Belknap Campus, Louisville, KY 40292 Season: 2024–25 mainstage, times vary Lynn Nottage’s Pulitzer-winning comedy-drama about diner life and human connection. Sharp, witty, and deeply observed. University of Louisville College of Arts & Sciences
Miss Holmes — University of Louisville Theatre Department University of Louisville Theatre, Belknap Campus, Louisville, KY 40292 Season: 2024–25 mainstage, times vary A clever twist on the detective genre. Expect intrigue, humor, and inventive staging from UofL’s talented students. University of Louisville College of Arts & Sciences
Much Ado About Nothing — Kentucky Shakespeare Festival C. Douglas Ramey Amphitheater, Central Park, Old Louisville, KY Summer Series: Ran from: May 28–Aug 10, 2025, wiht more shows to come in Summer 2026Free, professional Shakespeare under the stars. Enjoy classic comedy with talented actors, youth pre-shows, and local food trucks. Kentucky Shakespeare Festival
The Love of Three Oranges — University of Louisville Theatre Department University of Louisville Theatre, Belknap Campus, Louisville, KY 40292 Season: 2024–25 mainstage, times vary Surreal fairy-tale satire with imaginative staging. A lively, playful show that highlights UofL’s creative breadth. University of Louisville College of Arts & Sciences
TimeSlip & Bunbury Theatre Company Various intimate Louisville venues Showtimes: Vary per production Small, boutique theaters offering immersive and inventive performances. Great for a unique, up-close theater experience. TimeSlip & Bunbury Theatre Company
Derby Dinner Playhouse Mainstage Productions 525 Marriott Dr., Clarksville, IN 47129 Showtimes: Vary per production, typically evening shows 7:30 p.m., matinees Sat/Sun 2 p.m. Professional dinner theater with musicals and dramas in-the-round. Enjoy food and entertainment combined for a full night out. Derby Dinner Playhouse
Community Theater Favorites (Highview Arts, Pandora, Little Colonel, Clarksville Little Theatre) Various Louisville-area locations Showtimes: Vary per production Polished community theater productions like Urinetownor A Christmas Carol. Affordable, fun, and beloved by locals. Clarksville Little Theater
Kentucky Shakespeare Holiday / Special Performances Various Louisville locations, including Central Park Seasonal: Holidays, Halloween, or other special events Classic plays with Kentucky Shakespeare’s signature charm. Fun, approachable, and perfect for families or theater enthusiasts. Kentucky Shakespeare Facebook page
Mind’s Eye Theatre Company Various Louisville locations Showtimes: Vary per production Immersive, creative, and sometimes campy theater. Shows like Evil Dead bring adventurous, edgy performances to life this October. Mind's Eye Theatre Company

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Caleb is currently the Managing Editor for LEO Weekly from Southern Indiana, AKA the Suburbs of Louisville, and has worked for other news outlets, including The Courier Journal and Spectrum News 1 KY....