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

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

Her career milestone came with ‘Reckless Heart’ (2019), which broke into the UK Top 20 Album Chart, followed by ‘The Blues Album’ (2021), produced by Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Blues Charts. Her next album, ‘Blues From The Heart Live,’ also hit No. 1 on the Billboard Blues Album chart in 2022.

The Wortham Center is Asheville’s go-to hub for seriously good performing arts — a cozy multi-venue setup where you can catch everything from sharp theatre pieces and dance shows to live music and comedy. It features a classic 500-seat main theater that’s perfect for both nationally touring acts and local productions, along with smaller black box and studio spaces for experimental performances and workshops.

 The center’s vibe is intimate and welcoming, making you feel like you’re part of the show rather than just a spectator. Plus, it’s right in the mix downtown with easy access to great restaurants and after-show hangouts.

For locals, Wortham isn’t just a theater — it’s a beloved gathering spot to experience the arts in all their forms. Fans rave about the consistently professional productions, the stunning restored seats from Radio City Music Hall, and community-focused programs that bring art education and performance opportunities to all ages. 

The addition of smaller venues expanded the kind of performances you can see, from indie plays to dance workshops, making it a hotspot for creative energy year-round. Regulars highlight the friendly staff and refreshingly chill vibe for something so fancy.

Wortham Center for Performing Arts

Discover Asheville, NC’s thriving live music and events scene with our expertly curated guide featuring concerts, festivals, community happenings, and more. Whether you’re searching for live shows from local bands, major concert venues, seasonal music festivals, or family-friendly events, Asheville delivers a wide array of entertainment options to suit all tastes and ages. Stay ahead with up-to-date listings on upcoming music events, cultural festivals, arts showcases, and exciting adventures in Asheville’s vibrant neighborhoods and downtown. Find the best things to do tonight and every day, making your visit or stay in Asheville unforgettable with rich experiences in music, culture, and entertainment.

Joanne Shaw Taylor

The Scoop