Mass In Troubled Times
2025-11-16 16:00 - 17:30 (America/New_York) | UNCW Kenan Auditorium, 515 Wagoner Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403, Wilmington, NC, 28036, United States
Experience the drama and beauty of two choral masterpieces as Cape Fear Chorale presents Haydn’s Lord Nelson Mass and John Corigliano’s moving and lyrical Fern Hill. Haydn’s bold and triumphant mass—often called his greatest—resonates with urgency and hope, while Corigliano’s setting of Dylan Thomas’s nostalgic poem captures the aching beauty of youth and time. Don’t miss this inspiring afternoon of music, presented by Cape Fear Chorale, orchestra, soloists, and artistic director Aaron Peisner.

UNCW Presents: “unDISCIPLINEd 3”
2025-11-18 17:00 - 18:30 | Beckwith Recital Hall, 5270 Randall Drive, Wilmington, NC, 28403, United States
Join us Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at 5 p.m. in Beckwith Recital Hall for “unDISCIPLINEd 3”, an exciting arts showcase featuring faculty members from Art and Art History, Creative Writing, Film Studies, Music, and Theatre who push the boundaries of their disciplines in unique and inspiring ways.
Featuring:
Nick Hudson / Art & Art History
Michael Ramos / Creative Writing
Michael Betts / Film Studies
Justin Hoke / Music
Elizabeth Wellman / Theatre
Admission is FREE and open to all students, faculty, staff and community members.
Reception to follow in the Cultural Arts Lobby, sponsored by CHSSA Dean’s office.
The Cultural Arts Building is located at 5270 Randall Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403, on the corner of Randall Parkway and Reynolds Drive on the UNCW campus and can be accessed from South College Road or Racine Drive. Visitor parking is in front of the box office entrance to the building.
Interested media should contact Nancy King, at kingn@uncw.edu or (910) 962-4048

CAM After Dark: The Art of Glass and Light - Exhibition Openings
2025-11-20 18:00 - 21:00 | Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S 17th St, Wilmington, 28412
Exhibition Opening & Outdoor Installation Debut
Thursday, November 20 | 6–9 PM
CAM Members: Free | Not-Yet Members: $15 | Students & Educators: Free
See CAM come alive after dark with glowing glass art, a brand-new lit-up outdoor installation, music, and more.
Join us for this luminous evening at CAM as we celebrate the exhibition opening of Magic, Light, and Sacred Geometry: Glassworks by Frederick G. Kahl and the outdoor installation debut of Nested: Where Light Gathers and Nature Holds by Meredith Connelly.
Inside the galleries, explore Frederick Kahl’s radiant glass forms in Magic, Light, and Sacred Geometry—a decade-long exploration of light, reflection, and craftsmanship. At 6:30 PM, Kahl will present an illustrated talk on the innovative techniques and technologies behind his intricate works, created during his 2025 residency with Starworks in Star, NC.
Step outdoors to see Nested: Where Light Gathers and Nature Holds – Outdoor Illuminated Installation by Meredith Connelly, which will transform CAM’s courtyard into a glowing celebration inspired by nature and living forms. The work invites reflection on the beauty, resilience, and interconnectedness of the natural world.
Throughout the evening, enjoy:
A live set by DJ Louis
Free bourbon tastings from Ian Williams of Cook’s Mill
Access to all 3 of CAM’s galleries, open and alive with incredible new fall exhibitions
Food and drinks from CAM Café, open from 5-9 PM. Call 910-777-2363 for dinner reservations.
Visit the CAM Shop for blown glass gifts by regional artists and take home a unique drawing generated on site by Kahl’s exhibition.
Member Preview Tours
Members are invited from 10 AM-5 PM to get an early sneak peak at these two new exhibitions. Members-only tours will be held at 11 AM and 2 PM and are free to members.
Nested: Where Light Gathers and Nature Holds – Outdoor Illuminated Installation by Meredith Connelly, sponsored in part by Dr. Michael A. Freeze and Mx. Lenwood “Bo” Dean.

Soup to Nuts Live! Featuring Rob Abernethy
2025-11-20 19:30 - 20:30 | McErny Gallery at WHQR, 254 North Front Street, Suite 300, Wilmington, 28401, United States
Soup to Nuts Live! presents Rod Abernethy at WHQR MC Erny Gallery on Thursday November 20th. Doors open at 6:30 pm and show starts at 7:30 pm.
Rod Abernethy is a unique blend of an authentic southern folk troubadour, master acoustic guitarist, and award winning songwriter and composer for film, TV and video games and the Overall Grand Prize Winner of the 2021 International Acoustic Music Awards. In 2019 he was the Grand Prize winner of American Songwriter’s Bob Dylan Song Contest. His last album Normal Isn’t Normal Anymore, produced by Grammy nominated producer Neilson Hubbard (Mary Gauthier, Kim Richey, Glen Phillips), received rave reviews from No Depression, American Highways and The Wall Street Journal and was the Top 20 CD of 2021 at No. 11 on the Folk International Folk Charts.
Reserve your seats by emailing soup@whqr.org or call 910-343-1640 Ext 203 during regular business hours. ($10 suggested donation)

Campana sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico
2025-11-21 19:30 - 22:30 | UNCW Kenan Auditorium, 515 Wagoner Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403, Wilmington, NC, 28036, United States
Celebrate the magic of the season with a vibrant Mexican Christmas, featuring the world-class music of Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar and the dazzling dance of Ballet Folklorico del Rio Grande.
Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar
Originally from Bakersfield, California, Jimmy Cuellar began his mariachi career as a teenager alongside his father Jaime Cuellar and was a founding member of Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuellar. His dedication to his musical craft drove “El Pollo” to fine-tune his skills on the violin, guitarron, vihuela, guitar and guitarra de golpe, securing him a ten-year tenure with Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano. In subsequent years, Jimmy accompanied well known Latin recording artists Yolanda del Rio, Mercedes Castro, Humberto Herrera, Lila Downs, Vikki Carr, Aida Cuevas, Eugenia Leon, and Jose Feliciano as well as has been an instrumental member in various recoding productions, including the 2010 release of Ry Cooder and The Chieftains, San Patricio.
Beginning In 2005, Jimmy saw Grammy success when he was a featured artist on the Grammy Award winning album cELLAbration: A Tribute to Ella Jenkins. The following year “Llegaron Los Camperos: Concert Favorites of Nati Cano’s Mariachi Los Camperos” received a Grammy nomination for “Best Mexican Album”. 2008 added to his Grammy success with “Cien Por Ciento Mexicano” by Pepe Aguilar with 2009 rounding out a Grammy award to add to his mantle for Best Regional Mexican Album with “Amor, Dolor, y Lagrimas”.
Composer, arranger, multi-instrumentalist, three-time Grammy Award nominated and three time Grammy Award Winner, Mr. Cuellar understands the importance of education. Having received his Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University, Long Beach’s Bob Cole Conservatory of Music in 2009, “El Pollo” decided to continue his musical education and enroll with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas where he is pursuing a Masters in Music Composition. His talents as an educator as well as nationally-regarded expert
in the genre have earned Jimmy a yearly seat as an adjudicator for the statewide Mariachi Competition held in Texas. Mr. Cuéllar is the director of the mariachi program at Redlands Univesity and the director of the new school CUE Music, in Montebello, CA, where he teaches classes on mariachi and other genres of Mexican music.
Ballet Folklorico del Rio Grande
Ballet Folklórico del Rio Grande (BFRG), under the direction of Miguel Peña, is a thirty-member organization comprised of alumni of the internationally recognized collegiate folklórico program offered at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. UTRGV offers the only folklórico dance major in the United States and produces the wellspring of highly skilled professional dancers that comprise BFRG. With numerous state, national, and international concerts under their belt, they have been showcased at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performance Arts in Washington, D.C. for four consecutive years. BFRG has toured the world visiting countries such as Canada, France, Italy, Argentina, and Mexico. Their recent international work includes performances in Santiago, Argentina and Tamaulipas, Mexico. BFRG has also performed nationwide for important artists such as Los Tigres del Norte and Aida Cuevas. They now partner with Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar for joint shows celebrating all aspects of Mexican culture, including the Día de Los Muertos and Christmas holidays.

Little Women Auditions
2025-11-22 09:00 - 12:00 | Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center, 120 South 2nd Street, Wilmington, NC, 28401, United States
Thalian Association Community Theatre will hold auditions for the third youth show of the season, Little Women, Saturday November 22. Auditions will be held at the Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center at 120 S 2nd St Wilmington NC at 9 am. The musical, directed by Stacie Smith, will run at the Community Arts Center January 23 through February 1. If needed, callbacks will be that afternoon and will include reading and singing from the show.
All roles are available. Youth performers of all races and ethnicities are welcome and encouraged to audition.
Those new to the Thalian Association should bring an up-to-date picture with them.
Audition sign up begins Oct. 6th. To sign up for an audition time, please call 910-251-1788.
For auditions, performers should prepare 30 seconds of a song they feel confident singing.
A typical rehearsal week would be Monday- Thursday, 5-7 pm and Saturdays 10-2 pm.
Conflicts are allowed if given up front. Please arrive early enough to fill out both sides of the audition form.
Synopsis
Produced nationally and internationally, Little Women has been praised by critics for its ambition in adapting such a well-known story for the stage. This timeless, captivating story is brought to life in this glorious musical filled with personal discovery, heartache, hope and everlasting love. The original production starred the unparalleled Sutton Foster, who received Tony, Outer Critics Circle and Drama Desk nominations for her performance.
Based on Louisa May Alcott’s life, Little Women follows the adventures of sisters, Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy March. Jo is trying to sell her stories for publication, but the publishers are not interested – her friend, Professor Bhaer, tells her that she has to do better and write more from herself. Begrudgingly taking this advice, Jo weaves the story of herself and her sisters and their experience growing up in Civil War America.
Available Roles:
Jo March
Our story’s protagonist. Passionate, adventurous, and brave. She has the idea of writing Little Women and eventually becomes engaged to Professor Bhaer.
Vocal range top: A5
Vocal range bottom: E3
Professor Bhaer
German Professor who exemplifies proper manners. He is a boarder in Mrs. Kirk’s boarding house and eventually falls in love with Jo.
Vocal range top: F#4
Vocal range bottom: G2
Amy March
The youngest, most energetic sister with a rather pompous air about her. She later marries Laurie.
Vocal range top: Gb5
Vocal range bottom: -1
Meg March
The world-weary, yet hopeful, oldest sister who yearns for a great life. She marries John and has twins with him.
Vocal range top: Gb5
Vocal range bottom: A#3
Beth March
The second youngest sister who tragically dies of Scarlet Fever. Peace-maker, lover, and an optimist who is always encouraging her sisters to dream.
Vocal range top: G5
Vocal range bottom: A3
Marmee March
The girls’ mother. She is the strong backbone of the family, who is courageous in spite of the difficult odds she faces.
Vocal range top: Eb5
Vocal range bottom: Eb3
Mr. Laurence
Laurie Laurence
The bright-eyed boy-next-door with considerable charm. He loves Jo but later falls in love with Amy.
Vocal range top: Bb4
Vocal range bottom: Bb2
Aunt March
A formidable, over-bearing matron and great-aunt to the March sisters. The wealthy socialite in town.
Vocal range top: F5
Vocal range bottom: E3
Mr. John Brooke
Laurie’s tutor and a rather stiff man; shows very little emotion. He later marries Meg and changes.
Vocal range top: F#4
Vocal range bottom: C#3

WSYO Fall Matinee Concert
2025-11-23 16:00 - 17:00 | UNCW Kenan Auditorium, 515 Wagoner Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403, Wilmington, NC, 28036, United States
The Wilmington Symphony Orchestra is proud to present the Wilmington Symphony Youth Orchestras (WSYO) concert, featuring the Youth Orchestra (Linda Estep, Conductor) and the Junior Strings (Lisa Gattuso, Conductor).

Jazz at CAM: Sam Fribush Trio
2025-12-04 19:00 - 21:00 | Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S 17th St, Wilmington, 28412
Thursday, December 4 | 7 PM
Join us for Jazz at CAM as we present the Sam Fribush Trio!
Expect a high-energy set that blends deep-pocket funk, soulful grooves, and lush Hammond organ ballads from this modern funk organ trio. With masterful chops and a fresh, forward-thinking approach, Sam Fribush pushes the organ trio sound into bold new territory.
Fribush says, “My intention is to take this music into the future. I’m trying to expand the rules about what organ trio music is.”
Jazz at CAM is must for jazz lovers in the Wilmington area!
CAM Café is open for dinner the night of jazz performances. If you’d like to have dinner before the show, please reserve a table by calling (910) 777-2363. If attending the jazz show, we recommend making your reservation time no later than 6 PM to ensure you make it to the performance on time.
TICKETS
CAM Members: $40
Not-Yet Members: $60
Students and Educators: $15
ABOUT THE MUSICIAN
Keyboardist Sam Fribush is on the frontlines of the Hammond organ revival. His debut release ‘Sam Fribush Trio, Vol. 1: Riverboat’ was produced by Charlie Hunter and recorded in North Carolina. The trio’s recent record ‘People Please’ was released March 15th, 2024. Over the past few years, Fribush has established himself as one of the country’s hottest young bandleaders and ‘People Please’ expands upon the trio’s deep affinity for crispy, wah-wah driven funk, hip-hop beats and sultry B3 ballads. In 2025, he stepped out with DTF (Adam Deitch, Ari Teitel and Sam Fribush) to release ‘Another Side of the Sound’ and put his stamp on the modern funk organ trio.
Born in Greensboro, NC to a musical family, Fribush began his professional career at a young age, playing a variety of instruments including Steel Pan and Banjo.
“To me, Fribush epitomizes the old soul with a youthful spirit. Having grown up immersed in the sounds of everything from Dr. John to Tommy Jarrell, his musical sensibility has an incredibly intuitive flow, and his touch on the piano has always been beautifully unique. With that much natural talent, he wouldn’t necessarily have had to push himself to the limits he has, and it’s been a wonder to witness his evolution into one of the greatest working organ and keyboard players today. His sincerity cuts straight through every note he plays, with a heartfelt smile and mischief-tinged eyes, and his presence in any room feels like a big hug.” – Ric Robertson

Kick Off the 2025 Holiday Season with the Perfect Gift – Greetings! at Brunswick Little Theatre By Tom Dudzick Directed by Stephanie Hall
2025-12-04 19:30 - 2025-12-21 19:30 | Brunswick Little Theatre, 8068 River Road, 8068 River Road SE, Southport, NC, 28461, United States
live theatre performance

Ebenezer! A Musical Christmas Carol
2025-12-12 19:30 - 2025-12-21 14:00 | Thalian Hall Main Stage, 310 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, NC
https://www.thalianhall.org/tact-ebenezer-25
Showtimes
Dates: Friday December 12, 2025 – Sunday December 21, 2025
Friday – Saturday Time: 7:30 pm
Sunday Time: 2:00 pm
Additional Performances Thursday December 18, 2025 7:30 pm and Saturday December 20, 2025 2:00 pm
Location
Main Stage Thalian Hall
310 Chestnut St.
Book, Music, and Lyrics By Frank Trimble All the beloved Charles Dickens characters show up as Scrooge learns the true meaning of Christmas. This musical adaption of Dickens’ famous story showcases diverse musical styles (rock, country, gospel, polka) and varied uses of wording and language that span from one century to the next. The audience will be dazzled with the amazing choreography and unexpected comedic turns in this delightful adaptation. The words and lyrics of Ebenezer–A Christmas Carol come to life from the creative imagination of North Carolina playwright Frank P. Trimble. Make your holidays even brighter with this outstanding production!

Orange Street Pottery Holiday Sale
2025-12-13 10:00 - 16:00
Pottery show and sale presented by staff and student students of Orange St., Pottery

"The Nutcracker" Presented by Wilmington Conservatory
2025-12-13 13:00 - 2025-12-14 15:00 | Wilson Center Cape Fear Community College, 703 N 3rd St, Wilmington, 28401
WILMINGTON CONSERVATORY PRESENTS
THE NUTCRACKER
The Wilmington Conservatory of Fine Arts, established in 2007, is delighted to present the beloved holiday classic The Nutcracker. Back by popular demand after last season’s sold-out performances, this treasured production has become a hallmark of Wilmington’s Christmas celebrations.
Inspired by E.T.A. Hoffmann’s enchanting story and set to Tchaikovsky’s sweeping score by legendary orchestral interpretation by Berlin Philharmoniker Orchestra, The Nutcracker invites audiences into a world of wonder and imagination. With dazzling sets, ornate period costumes, and more than 200 performers—including Wilmington Conservatory dancers, local actors, and hired professional dancers—the stage comes alive with breathtaking artistry and festive cheer.
Journey alongside Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they battle the Rat Queen, travel through a sparkling winter wonderland, and enter the delectable Land of the Sweets. From the graceful Waltz of the Snowflakes to the grandeur of the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier, every scene is filled with unforgettable magic and joy for the entire family.
As Wilmington Conservatory of Fine Arts celebrates its nineteenth season in the ILM community, we are honored to continue sharing this cherished tradition that has captivated audiences for generations. Over the years, WCFA has brought to the Wilson Center stage beloved productions such as “Peter Pan”, “The Sleeping Beauty”, “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe”, “Cinderella”, “Hope Has Come”, “Pinocchio”, “Beauty and the Beast”, “Americana”, and many more beloved favorites.
This Christmas, make memories to last a lifetime and join us for the holiday event of the season—The Nutcracker with the Wilmington Conservatory of Fine Arts this December 13-14th.

WSO's Holiday Mixer
2025-12-17 17:30 - 19:30
The Wilmington Symphony Orchestra is halfway through its 2025-2026 Season and what better way to celebrate than at our Holly Jolly Mid-Season Holiday Mixer: a kitschy fundraiser! Mix and jingle while supporting a great cause!
What to Expect:
– Holiday treats provided; cash bar available.
– Ugly Holiday Outfit Contest — wear your tackiest Holiday outfit and compete for “Best Dressed”!
– Food Drive — help set the table for the Holidays for a family in need by bringing canned goods to the event, benefitting Good Shepherd Center.
– Classic Holiday movies on play.
Get your tickets early and save!
– $20 Regular — through Dec 16
– $25 At the Door
Proceeds benefit the WSO’s Music For Youth Education & Outreach Programs, including the Young People’s Concert, which gives children ages 6+ the chance to experience live classical music and try out instruments in the Wilson Center lobby. This year’s concert will include new sensory-friendly options and areas to make the experience welcoming for all.
Join us for a night of holiday cheer and community spirit!

Nights of Lights
2025-12-18 17:00 - 20:00 | The Bellamy Mansion Museum, 503 Market Street, Wilmington, NC, 28401, United States
Join us for our annual holiday open house which allows visitors to see three levels of the site’s main house and the first level of the original slave quarters building. Visitors will see festive decor that ranges from historically accurate in the slave quarters building to whimsically modern inside the main house. Holiday treats and hot chocolate will be available for purchase in the carriage house visitors’ center. Cash is preferred, but credit cards accepted for transactions totaling $5 or above. Donations greatly appreciated and help us keep this event FREE.
This event is made possible by volunteers who have priority access to the museum’s parking lot. Please plan on utilizing street parking which is abundant and FREE on the blocks surrounding the Museum.

Grinch’s Christmas Spectacular Dec 19-23
2025-12-19 17:00 - 18:00 | Historic Thalian Hall, 310 Chestnut St, Wilmington, 28401
Join the Who’s at Thalian Hall and Witness the “Who-Bilee”! Grow your heart three times this year and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa, Christmas cookies and all the Grinch-mas cheer at the “Grinch’s Christmas Spectacular”! This holiday event-production is an interactive theatrical experience for young audiences, specifically adapted for all ages, featuring local talent ages 8 & up! And the best part? You can meet all the Who’s, the Grinch and his dog Max after the performance! See you at the Who-bilee!

Nights of Lights
2025-12-19 17:00 - 20:00 | The Bellamy Mansion Museum, 503 Market Street, Wilmington, NC, 28401, United States
Join us for our annual holiday open house which allows visitors to see three levels of the site’s main house and the first level of the original slave quarters building. Visitors will see festive decor that ranges from historically accurate in the slave quarters building to whimsically modern inside the main house. You can also meet Father Christmas and on Friday there will be a live performance of Christmas carols. Holiday treats, hot chocolate, and cider will be available for purchase in the carriage house visitors’ center. Cash is preferred, but credit cards accepted for transactions totaling $5 or above. Donations greatly appreciated and help us keep this event FREE.
*Please plan on utilizing street parking which is abundant and free on the blocks surrounding the Museum. There are also paid parking decks nearby.

Wilmington Voices presents Songs of the Season
2025-12-19 19:30 - 21:00 | Little Chapel on the Boardwalk, 2 W Fayetteville St, Wrightsville Beach, NC, 28480, United States
Free holiday concerts, open to the public

Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert Live to Film
2025-12-20 14:00 - 20:00 | Wilson Center Cape Fear Community College, 703 N 3rd St, Wilmington, 28401
Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert Live to Film features a screening of the beloved movie while the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra (WSO) plays the entire score in sync.

Nights of Lights
2025-12-20 17:00 - 20:00 | The Bellamy Mansion Museum, 503 Market Street, Wilmington, NC, 28401, United States
Join us for our annual holiday open house which allows visitors to see three levels of the site’s main house and the first level of the original slave quarters building. Visitors will see festive decor that ranges from historically accurate in the slave quarters building to whimsically modern inside the main house. You can also meet Father Christmas and holiday treats, hot chocolate, and cider will be available for purchase in the carriage house visitors’ center. Cash is preferred, but credit cards accepted for transactions totaling $5 or above. Donations greatly appreciated and help us keep this event FREE.
*Please plan on utilizing street parking which is abundant and free on the blocks surrounding the Museum. There are also paid parking decks nearby.

Wilmington Voices in FREE Concert!
2025-12-20 19:30 - 20:30 | 1416 Market Street, 1416 Market Street, Wilmington, NC, 28401-4999, United States
The spirit of the holidays comes alive through the magic of choral music. This captivating concert celebrates the warmth, joy, and beauty of the holiday season, inviting audiences of all ages to gather and share in the festive cheer. Experience the power of live performance as Wilmington Voices takes you on a journey through beloved holiday classics.
*All Music on Market Concerts are free, open to the public and family friendly*
*Tickets are not required. Venue Seating is Limited. Seating is on First-Come, First-Served basis.*

Wilmington Voices presents Songs of the Season
2025-12-20 19:30 - 21:00 | 1416 Market Street, 1416 Market Street, Wilmington, NC, 28401-4999, United States
Free, non-ticked professional choir performance of holiday music

Jazz@CAM: The Triangle Youth Jazz Ensemble
2026-01-08 19:00 - 21:00 | Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S 17th St, Wilmington, 28412
Thursday, January 8 | 7 PM
Join us for Jazz at CAM as we present the Triangle Youth Jazz Ensemble!
Experience the energy and precision of one of the nation’s top high school jazz ensembles, delivering everything from swinging big band classics to fresh, contemporary charts. With remarkable skill and youthful passion, the Triangle Youth Jazz Ensemble proves that the future of jazz is in excellent hands.
Jazz at CAM is must for jazz lovers in the Wilmington area!
CAM Café is open for dinner the night of jazz performances. If you’d like to have dinner before the show, please reserve a table by calling (910) 777-2363. If attending the jazz show, we recommend making your reservation time no later than 6 PM to ensure you make it to the performance on time.
TICKETS
CAM Members: $40
Not-Yet Members: $60
Students and Educators: $15
ABOUT THE ENSEMBLE
Triangle Youth Jazz Ensemble (TYJE) is one of the premier high school jazz ensembles in the country and is part of Triangle Youth Music, an organization dedicated to providing exceptional music education across the Raleigh-Durham region.
TYJE brings together outstanding high school musicians from across the area who are passionate about jazz performance and improvisation. The ensemble performs both classic and contemporary big band repertoire and has earned national recognition for its excellence. TYJE has been selected eight times as a finalist for Jazz at Lincoln Center’s prestigious Essentially Ellington Festival and Competition in New York City, placing it among the top 15 high school jazz bands in the United States.
In 2024, TYJE was the only high school community band invited to perform at the renowned Midwest Clinic in Chicago. The group performs regularly throughout the Triangle and beyond, appearing at regional jazz festivals, community events, and concert series.
TYJE is directed by Dr. Gregg Gelb, a saxophonist, clarinetist, composer, and founder of the Heart of Carolina Jazz Orchestra. Dr. Gelb is an active performer with many jazz groups in the Triangle and frequently appears with the North Carolina Symphony. TYJE exemplifies Triangle Youth Music’s commitment to high-quality, accessible music education for young people across the region.

Curtain Call:Wilmington Youth Theater Honors
2026-01-11 18:00 - 19:00 | Cape Fear Community College Wilson Center, 703 N. 3rd Streer, Wilmington, 28411
CURTAIN CALL was created to educate, connect, and elevate the next generation of theater artists — a joyful showcase celebrating the creativity and passion of young performers and giving them a well-deserved curtain call for their hard work and dedication.
A collaborative effort between the Arts Council of Wilmington and the Wilson Center, Curtain Call Wilmington Youth Theater Honors was born from a shared belief that after years of seeing youth theater recognized in a competitive way at the Wilmington Theater Awards – we realized there’s no single “best” in youth theater – every student, every production, and every performance deserves to shine!
Let’s shine a well-deserved spotlight on young performers from our region and give them their well-earned CURTAIN CALL! Hosted by Andrew Keenan-Bolger:
He is an actor, director, author and filmmaker. He starred as “Jesse Tuck” in Tuck Everlasting on Broadway (Drama League Award nominee). He created the role of “Crutchie” in the Original Broadway Cast of Newsies (Outer Critics Circle nominee) and in the record-breaking Newsies: The Broadway Musical film. Other Broadway: Mary Poppins, Seussical, Beauty and the Beast, A Christmas Carol.
Prior to the event young performers can attend a BROADWAY WORKSHOP on the Wilson Stage with our Master of Ceremonies, Broadway Actor – Andrew Keenan-Bolger from 1-4pm! As for the grand finale, all workshop participants will perform during the evening show at 6pm, creating a once-in-a-lifetime moment on stage! The Workshop
Sign up on the Wilson Website – space is limited: https://pay.performanceclubkids.com/curtaincall
Youth Performers submitted by teachers/local theater directors to perform and showcase their a musical number from the past year – attend for FREE! EMAIL: PCTCforKIDS@gmail.com to submit your students.

Auditions for the musical 1776, Jan. 12-13
2026-01-12 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-01-13 19:00 - 21:00 | Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center, 120 South 2nd Street, Wilmington, NC, 28401, United States
Thalian Association Community Theatre will hold auditions for a special project co-produced with Thalian Hall, 1776, January 12 and 13 at 7 pm. Auditions will be held at the Community Arts Center, 120 S. 2nd Street in downtown Wilmington. The production, directed by Chandler Davis, runs March 12-15 at Thalian Hall.
*March 12 is a morning school show
Please prepare 30 seconds (16 bars) musical theatre style song to sing. You may bring sheet music if you prefer but it is not mandatory. An accompanist will be provided.
Audition sign-up will begin December 17th. PLEASE CALL 910-251-1788 TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TIME.
ROLES MAY BE PLAYED BY PERFORMERS OF ANY GENDER.
Callbacks will be January 14 at the Community Arts Center. Please be prepared to read from a provided script and sing from the show.
Actors of all ethnicities are welcome and encouraged to audition for our entire season!
Synopsis:
The seminal event in American history blazes to vivid life in this most unconventional of Broadway hits. 1776 puts a human face on the pages of history as we see the humans behind the national icons: proud, frightened, uncertain, irritable, charming, often petty and ultimately noble figures, determined to do the right thing for a fledgling nation.
It’s the summer of 1776, and the nation is ready to declare independence… if only our founding fathers can agree to do it! 1776 follows John Adams of Massachusetts, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania and Thomas Jefferson of Virginia as they attempt to convince the members of the Second Continental Congress to vote for independence from the shackles of the British monarchy by signing the Declaration of Independence.

Kiln Build with Ben Owen III
2026-01-16 - 2026-01-24 | Fat Cat Pottery, Inc., 2500 Blue Clay Road, Wilmington, 28405
Get ready for an incredible opportunity at Fat Cat Pottery! We’re thrilled to host a 4-day kiln building workshop led by renowned potter Ben Owen — right here at our Wilmington studio.
Join us January 16, 17, 18 & 23 as Ben guides students through an immersive learning experience that combines in-depth lectures, kiln design + function, glaze insights, and hands-on construction of a gas reduction kiln on site. You’ll learn side-by-side with Ben as the kiln is built from the ground up, culminating in a full group firing.
This is a chance to study with a master, expand your firing knowledge, and be part of an exciting milestone for Fat Cat Pottery.
Registration opens December 2nd. Space is limited — secure your spot early!
910-395-2529 to register

"In Search of Memory" Angela Rowe & Karen Paden Crouch
2026-01-16 10:00 - 2026-03-01 17:00 | 970 Inspiration Drive, Wilmington, NC 28405, 970 Inspiration Drive, Wilmington, NC, 28405, United States
Through their collaborative exhibit “In Search of Memory,” Art in Bloom Gallery is honored to feature artists Angela Rowe & Karen Paden Crouch! Inspired by the enduring power of memories, Angela and Karen combine their distinct talents to evoke the shared experiences which shape us. Write Angela & Karen:
“Memories have the power to bind us. They tap into our shared experience evoking images and icons from the culture that has shaped us. Even inside a mind troubled by dementia, old memories remain strong and help sustain us. This body of work is about making memories and keeping memories alive. We hope it evokes a place or a moment in time we can share to find healing ground in our fragmented world.”
Join us in Mayfaire on Sunday, January 18th, 2-5pm for our Artist Reception! Meet the artists, enjoy special refreshments, and listen to live music by Robert Beauchene. And celebrate Traudi Thornton’s (1940-2023) legacy through her Final Raku Sale! In alignment with her kiln restoration at Fat Cat Pottery, we’ll release our final selection of Traudi’s ceramics from storage — 70+ masterpieces pit-fired with Traudi’s stunning glazes!
About the Artists
Although Angela Rowe grew up drawing and making objects, she took other career paths, working as an architectural historian, in arts administration, and managing high complexity global projects for IBM. Since 2013 Angela has focused on making art, maintaining a studio practice at ACME Art Studios since 2014.
Angela enjoys moving between the three freely based on which medium fits what she wants to say at a given time. Primarily a painter, Angela also works representationally with ceramics and papier-mâché. Her collage / mixed media work is largely non-representational. Regardless of the medium, all share her same intention of portraying things which are more than they superficially seem. Angela wants to suggest a story, show a certain light, a moment, a mood, a shared memory. She takes her own reference photos. These are images which said something to her.
After more than twenty years of trial practice, Karen Paden Crouch traded her law office for the welding shop and began learning direct metal sculpture. Despite a successful career advocating for clients, nothing has ever been so frightening and exciting to Karen as sharing her own artwork. Whether it is good or bad, understood or misunderstood, trite or significant, it has come from within her.
Karen works in bronze, copper and steel to create organic pieces for the house and garden. An avid gardener, Karen grounds her work in the structure and movement of living things. Although Karen begins with a vision, sometimes the very piece that sparked the idea will be the piece that gets cut out as the sculpture evolves. But Karen has always lived by instinct and, with assembled pieces and bronzes alike, the sculpture will tell her where to go if she is patient and listens.

Yoga at CAM
2026-01-17 09:00 - 10:00 | Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S 17th St, Wilmington, 28412
Saturdays 9-10 AM | January 17–February 14 (5-week series)
Inside the Galleries at CAM | In partnership with Wilmington Yoga Center
Start your new year with intention. Join us for a 5-week, all-levels yoga series held inside Cameron Art Museum’s galleries—an immersive experience where movement and art come together. Surrounded by the art on view, you’ll deepen your practice while connecting with a welcoming community of art and yoga-lovers.
Sessions will be held Saturday mornings from 9-10 AM. Series runs from January 17-February 14. Each session is designed to ground your body, calm your mind, and inspire your weekend.
Space is limited to 20 participants to maintain a peaceful, intimate setting. Early registration is recommended.
Series investment: $90 | CAM Members: $80
Registration is handled through Wilmington Yoga Center.

Living Waters: Artist Tour & Talk with R. Stein Wexler
2026-01-18 13:00 - 15:00 | Cameron Art Museum, 3201 S 17th St, Wilmington, 28412
Join artist R. Stein Wexler for an artist talk on Living Waters, an immersive installation that reflects on the unifying and essential role of water in human life.
The installation sits within an emergency shelter that includes 7 jerricans of water gathered along the Cape Fear River watershed, a video installation of the surface of that body of water, and an audio collage composed of recorded water rituals and the sounds of water.
Begin with a guided tour at 1 PM led by the artist, registration required.
After, Wexler will discuss her work and process in a moderated conversation at 2 PM with Gene Felice, artist and Assistant Professor of Digital Art at UNCW.
Join us for the tour, the artist talk, or both. Links below to register.
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
R Stein Wexler (she/her) is a public- and installation-artist trained as an urban planner. Her projects are research-based, community-engaged, and critical of dominant structures. She creates place-based work in collaboration with local communities to tell (hi)stories. Shaped by empathy, deep listening, and authentic connection, her work results in gatherings, process documentation, immersive and interactive installations, workshops, exhibitions, and policy change. Her work often offers numerous points of entry, be it through sensory experiences, information-sharing, participation in the creation process, or community- and connection-building.
ABOUT THE MODERATOR:
Gene A. Felice II, Assistant Professor in Digital Art at UNCW, bridges his creative practice across art, science, education and design, developing a sustainable network of innovation, living systems, and emerging technologies. His hybrid practice grows at the intersection of nature and technology, developing coactive systems as arts science research. Throughout his creative process, emerging technologies such as 3D printing, laser cutting & CNC milling hybridize with older methods such as wood fabrication, lost wax bronze casting, ceramics, glass casting and more. While keeping site specific histories in mind, he achieves confluence by merging these varied passions into a system of creative collaboration.
