A Lecture Demonstration Series for the Curious, the New, and the Devotee 

Sun, Jan 18 • 3 pm
60 Minutes
In the 1940s, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, and Thelonious Monk took jazz to thrilling new heights. The tempos got faster, the harmonies bolder, and the rhythms more complex. Dancers sat down and leaned in to listen. It’s challenging. It’s beautiful. It’s music that asks you to catch up—and rewards you when you do.

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

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Bebop: Jazz Takes Flight

The Scoop