Arts Datebook: St. Louis Fall Arts Events

Theater & Dance

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The Black Rep Purlie (September 10–21). A preacher aims to restore a church to its former glory. A Raisin in the Sun (November 29–December 21). This is Lorraine Hans-berry’s moving story of a Chicago family’s struggles. Edison Theatre, 6465 Forsyth, 314-935-6543, edison.wustl.edu; 314-534-3810, theblackrep.org.

The COCA Family Theatre Series Nearly Lear (November 8). Actress Susanna Hamnett pays homage tothe classic language and story of King Lear with the addition of a little bitof humor and whimsy. Stella, Queen of the Snow (November 22–23).This stage adaptation of the book by Marie-Louise Gay is about siblings Stella and Sam’s adventure to disco-ver their own winter wonderland. 524 Trinity, 314-725-6555, cocastl.org.

Dance St. Louis New Dance Horizons III (October 10& 11). This year will feature pieces by Roni Koresh and Katarzyna Skarpe-towska that will be performed by MADCO and The Big Muddy Dance Company. Blanche M. Touhill Perform-ing Arts Center, 1 University, University of Missouri–St. Louis, 314-516-4949, touhill.org; 314-534-5000. Dance Theatre of Harlem (November 7 & 8). The nation’s first African-American dance company graces St. Louis for one weekend this fall. Fox Theatre, 527 N. Grand, 314-534-1678, fabulousfox.com.

Edison Theatre - Unveiled (September 27). Stereo-types on Muslim culture are chal-lenged in this play written and per-formed by Rohina Malik. Dracula (October 17 & 18). It’s presented by the Missouri Ballet Theatre. Anon(ymous) (October 9–12). This isa contemporary reimagining of Homer’s The Odyssey. Arabesque (October 24 & 25). The evolution of Vietnamese culture is illustrated through dance that symbolizes the rice-farming tradition. Three Acts, Two Dancers, One Radio Host (November 1 & 2). Ira Glass and Monica Bill Barnes & Company con-cocted this show that comprises dance,radio, and a whole lot of funny. Reduced Shakespeare Company: The Com-plete History of Comedy (abridged) (November 14). From Charlie Chaplin toThe Daily Show, this company attempts to make a joke out of every punch line ever told. Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson (November 14–16 & 21–23). This play uses indie rock and a wholelot of sass to tell the life story of An-drew Jackson. Mallinckrodt Center, Washington University, 6465 Forsyth, 314-935-6543, edison.wustl.edu.

Fox Theatre Dirty Dancing (October 21–November 2). There are certain universal truths, in-cluding nobody puts Baby in a corner. Mo-town: The Musical (November 18–30). See box. Annie (December 2–7). One of the most popular musicals of all time includes classics like “Tomorrow.” 527 N. Grand, 314-534-1678, fabulousfox.com.

Kranzberg Arts Center Grand Center District Theater Crawl (September 5). Experience the whole midtown theater scene in one fell swoop. HotCity Theatre: The Normal Heart (September 12–27). Larry Kramer’s play tells the story of the early years of the AIDS crisis. Anti-gone (October 10–26). This is the U.S. premiere of playwright David Slavitt’s translation of Sophocles’ tragedy. 501 N. Grand, 314-289-1500, kranzbergartscenter.org.

The New Jewish Theatre The Diary of Anne Frank (October 11–November 2). See a theatrical adaptation of Frank’s moving dairies, kept while hiding from the Nazis. St. Louis Jewish Community Center, Staenberg Family Complex, 2 Millstone Campus, 314-442-3283, newjewishtheatre.org.

New Line Theatre Bonnie & Clyde (October 2–25). Thisis the sexy narrative of the notorious bank-robbing couple. Washington University South Campus Theatre, 6501 Clayton, 314-773-6526, newlinetheatre.com.

Peabody Opera House - Nice Work If You Can Get It (October 10, 11 & 12). The plot’s set during the 1920s—the perfect setup for a night of songs written by George and Ira Gershwin. The Ghost Brothers of Darkland County (November 29). Written by Stephen King, this musi-cal features music and lyrics by John Mellencamp and musical directionby T Bone Burnett. Pippin (Decem-ber 10–14). This was written by Ste-ven Schwartz, the creator of Godspell and Wicked. 1400 Market, 314-499-7600, peabodyoperahouse.com.

Repertory Theatre of St. Louis - One Man, Two Guvnors (September 10–October 5). Follow Francis Henshall as he attempts to keep two jobs to make ends meet, all the while duping his two bosses. A Midsummer Night’s Dream (October 15–November 9). Shakespeare’s classic is directed by Paul Mason Barnes. Loretto-Hilton Center for the Performing Arts, Webster University, 130 Edgar, 314-968-4925, repstl.org.

Stages St. Louis Fiddler on the Roof (September 5–October 5). This Joseph Stein book has been a stage favorite for decades. Robert G. Reim Theatre, Kirkwood Community Center, 111 S. Geyer, 314-821-2407, stagesstlouis.com.

Music

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2720 Cherokee Performing Arts Center Lee Fields & The Expressions (Sep-tember 20). Fields’ nickname is “Little JB,” for his resemblance to the great James Brown. Rob Garza (Septem-ber 26). Garza is a  former member of D.C. DJ collective Thievery Corporation. EOTO (October 2). The Boulder, Colorado, duo is an electronica side project of The String Cheese Incident. Marco Benevento (November 9). The New Jersey multi-instrumentalist has been part of New York’s avant-garde music scene since the late ’90s. 2720 Cherokee, 314-875-0233, 2720cherokee.com.

Alton Amphitheatret Kenny Rogers (September 6). The classic country singer is known for such hits as “The Gambler.” River Jam (September 13). Performers include the Elvin Bishop Band, Wishbone Ash, Savoy Brown featuring Kim Simmonds, and Point Blank. Mississippi Earthtones Festival (September 20). This celebration of the Mississippi River transforms the local amphitheater into a little eco-village and includes live music. 1 Riverfront, Alton, Ill., 800-258-6645, riverfrontamphitheater.com.

Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center Arianna String Quartet (September 5 & November 7). The St. Louis–based chamber ensemble performs Ludwig van Beethoven’s Quartet in E-flat Major, Op. 127, and Johannes Brahms’ Clarinet Quintet in B minor, Op. 115, on September 5. On November 7, the program includes works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Antal Doráti, Ben-jamin Britten, and Beethoven. John Prine (September 26). One of Amer-ica’s most legendary singer-songwriters, Prine has been praised by Kris Kristofferson and Bob Dylan; his songs have been recorded by a who’s who of artists, including Johnny Cash, Joan Baez, and Ben Harper. Amanda Shires opens. Philharmonia Quartett Berlin (October 18). The internationally ac-claimed string quartet is considered one of the best of its kind in Europe, and it has toured the world over the past 20 years. Jussit (November 9). This group is otherwise known asthe South Ostrobothnian Male Voice Choir, which was founded in 1951 to preserve the vocal folk music of Finland. University of Missouri–St. Louis, 1 University, 314-516-4949, touhill.org.

Blueberry Hill’s Duck Room Living Colour (September 24). It’s bestknown for the late ’80s hit “Cult of Per-sonality.” Astronautalis (September 26). The indie hip-hop artist’s latest is TBA. Astronautalis appears with Sarah Jaffe and Transit. Il Sogno del Marinaio with Mike Watt (October 1). Watt, the former bassist with legendary punk trio The Minutemen, has formed a new band with Italian musicians Stefano Pilia and Andrea Belfi.  Bahamas (October 3). This is the stage name of Canadian guitarist Afie Jurvanen, who has collaborated with Fiest and Jack Johnson. Bernhoft (October 14). Norwegian musician Jarle Bernhoft’s jaggedy pop has a deep soul and R&B influences. 6504 Delmar, 314-727-4444, 800-745-3000, blueberryhill.com/events/duck.

Chaifetz Arena A Day To Remember (September 17). The Florida rock band’s huge, shouted anthems have been described as being pop-punk, post-hardcore, and emocore. 1 S. Compton, 314-977-5000, thechaifetzarena.com.

The Dark Room Kasimu Taylor Trio (Wednesdays). This trio provides live jazz every week from 6 to 9 p.m. Me & My Piano (Fridays and Saturdays). St. Louis pianists, singers, and composers—including Nate Carpenter, Mo Egeston, Jesse Gannon, Pete Ruthenberg, Leslie Sanazaro, and Matt Villinger—drop in every week to perform covers (and their own material, too). Depth of Field (First Thursdays). Damon Davis and the FarFetched col-lective team up monthly with classi-cal musicians for a showcase of “con-temporary innovation and classical standards.” 615 N. Grand, 314-531-3416, thedarkroomstl.com.

Firebird Bishop Allen (September 3). Catch the Brooklyn indie rock band. Joyce Manor (September 5). The Cali punk band came up with its name during a drunken visit to Disneyland. Clairy Browne and The Banging Rackettes (September 6). Clairy Browne and her backup singers have a punky new take on the classic 1960s girl group. Origin (September 8). It’s a critically acclaimed death-metal band from Topeka, Kansas, arriving with King Parrot, Beyond Creation, Your Chance To Die, and Quaere Verum. BRONCHO (September 10). The Oklahoma band describes its sound as “fuzzy, guitar-driven rock.” Mineral (September 16). Is it even possible for an emo band to come into being in big, brash, sunny Texas? Yes, and Mineral is proof. Bal-ance and Composure (September 23). Pitchfork describes the group’s new-est album as “an unapologetically old-school alt-rock album.” Paradise Fears (September 25). The pop-driven indie band’s latest is You to Believe In. Pomplamoose (October 4). Musical and life partners Jack Conte and Nataly Dawn make unabashed-ly jangly, silly, old-school music. St. Lucia (October 7). Jean-Philip Grobler’s thing is soaring ’80s-style synthpop. The Rural Alberta Advan-tage (October 12). As the name suggests, the band’s Canadian; the sound is solid, old-style indie rock. ODESZA (October 15). The electronica duo from Seattle makes hypnotic, loop-driven music for dancing. Shonen Knife (Oct-ober 18). The legendary Japanese all-girl pop-punk trio’s latest is Overdrive.This Will Destroy You (October 24). The Texas postrock band got itsstart as an instrumental project. Tyler Hilton (October 28). The young singer-songwriter is known for hisclever lyrics. 2706 Olive, 314-535-0353, firebirdstl.com.

Fox Theatre Austin Mahone (September 5). The young pop singer’s fans have been dubbed “Mahomies.” Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band (October 3). Starr, of course, needs no introduction. The folks on this tour often don’t, either—this version of his touring band includes Todd Rundgren, for instance. The Piano Guys (October 18). This classical crossover quartet formed through a piano shop in St. George, Utah. Joe Bonamassa (November 15). The guitar virtuoso was influenced by the blues indirectly—by way of European artists like Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton, and Jethro Tull. 527 N. Grand, 314-534-1678, fabulousfox.com.

The Focal Point  The Foggy Memory Boys (September 5). The St. Louis bluegrass band’s name is a humorous play on the band in O Brother, Where Art Thou? Dutch Schutlz and Friends (September 6). The St. Louis roots musician’s latest is A Block Away. David Gans (September 7). Longtime musician Gans is known for his collaborations with the Grateful Dead. HanaLena Band (September 12). Nashville sisters Hannah and Caroline Melby play old-timey folk and bluegrass music. The Skirtlifters (September 13). The Fayetteville, Ark., group plays the ragtime and Tin Pan Alley songs birthed on riverboats and on the vaudevillian stage. Michael Jonathon (September 19). The folk singer is also the host of WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour. Jake’s Leg (September 26). The Grateful Dead cover band has been performing for 30 years. It appears with Auset Music Project. Leroy Pierson (September 27). The blues guitarist and reggae scholar is also often seen performing at BB’s Jazz, Blues, and Soups. Sarah McQuaid (October 3). The singer-songwriter’s voice has been compared to “honey poured into wine.” Eric Lambert (October 4). The Chicago Americana musician is known for his flat-picking style. Finnegan’s Wake (October 10). This group’s members aren’t descendants of Joyce but rather “Las Vegas’ premier Irish band.” Brian McNeill (October 11). The Scottish singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist performs traditional songs of his country, though not always on traditional instruments—his repertoire includes mandolin, as well as bouzouki and mandocello. Red-Headed Strangers (October 17). One of St. Louis’ best-loved Americana bands named itself after a classic Willie Nelson album. Amy Lord (October 18). The singer has a degree in Scottish music; she is a favorite at The Focal Point. Sins of the Pioneers (October 25). The local roots band features longtime scene veterans, including fiddler Geoff Seitz. David Davis & the Warrior River Boys (October 31). The contemporary bluegrass band’s latest disc is Two Dimes and a Nickel. 2720 Sutton, 314-560-2778, thefocalpoint.org.

The Gramophone Sol Cat (September 2). The poppy, psychedelic Nashville band’s latest single is “Body Like That.” Jason and The Punknecks (September 7). This is a self-described “hell-raising hillbilly punk rock” band. Taj Weekes and Adowa (September 12). The roots reggae musician and poet often sings narrative songs about his Caribbean heritage. Futurebirds (September 13). This band is from Athens, Georgia. Is it as tuneful as R.E.M.? And does it have that slight edge of Athens weirdness? You betcha. Yuna (September 21). Malaysian singer-songwriter Yunalis Mat Zara’ai has been described as “a cross between Mary Poppins and Coldplay.” The Cave Singers (September 30). This Seattle band is made up of former members of Pretty Girls Make Graves, Hint Hint, and Cobra High. Devon Allman (November 8). The son of Allman Brother Gregg, Devon is a regular on the St. Louis scene. 4243 Manchester, 314-531-5700, thegramophonelive.com.

HEARding Cats Philip Gelb (October 25). The Bay Area shakuhachi player and gourmet vegetarian chef joins forces with HEARding Cats for a performance of his famous piece In the Mood for Food, which will feature actual food, music, and poetry. Location to be announced. International Electromatics (Novem-ber 15). This group is otherwise known as Frank Vanaman and Dave Vosh, analog synthesizer masters from Baltimore and members of that city’s SDIY group, which is famous for building its own theremins and synthesizers. Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 N. Grand, heardingcatscollective.org.

The Hettenhausen Center for the Arts Neil Berg’s 101 Years of Broadway (September 25). This musical revue features classic Broadway tunes performed by five Broadway stars. Christine Brewer with Craig Terry and Hugh Russell (October 5). Lebanon, Ill., native—and world-famous opera diva—Christine Brewer celebrates the city’s 200th birthday, along with co-stars from the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Masters Series: Brian Owens and the Music of Marvin Gaye (October 19). St. Louis’ own brilliant Owens performs Gaye’s greatest hits, backed by the St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra. Classic Albums Live: Abbey Road (October 24). Top-notch musicians perform The Beatles’ Abbey Road in its entirety. Cantus: All is Calm (November 30). This chorus performs songs retelling the story of the 1914 Christmas truce between German and Allied soldiers. 400 N. Alton, Lebanon, Ill., 618-537-6863, mckendree.edu/the_hett.

The St. Louis Classical Guitar Society Douglas Niedt (September 27). This classical guitarist began his musical training at age 7 and was soon winning awards from the American Academy of Music. Odair Assad (October 25). This Brazilian guitarist, who often performs with his brother, Sérgio, has recorded for Nonesuch Records. Cavatina Duo (November 28). The duo comprises Spanish flutist Eugenia Moliner and Bosnian classical guitarist Denis Azabagic. Ethical Society of St. Louis, 9001 Clayton, 314-567-5566, guitarstlouis.net.

Jazz at the Bistro Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra Featuring Wynton Marsalis (Octo-ber 3). Jazz at the Bistro kicks off its first season in its new, completely renovated Grand Center headquarters in grand style. Trumpeter and composer Marsalis is the recipient of nine Grammys and is the artistic director of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. David Sanborn (October 8–11). The Kirkwood native and smooth-jazz star has played with a wide range of artists, fromWeen to Bryan Ferry. Jazz keys monster Joey DeFrancesco sits in on his latest record, Enjoy the View. John Pizzarelli Quartet (October 22–25). We’ve been spoiled with multiple visits to Jazz at the Bistro from the Pizzarellis, both Bucky and John. We suggest you just resign yourself to being spoiled some more. Joshua Redman Trio (November 5–8). The Harvard University–educated sax player has a new record, Trios Live; he is a jazz virtuoso but has also skipped outside of genre, playing with bandslike Umphrey’s McGee. Jeff Coffin & the Mu’tet (November 19–22). The three-time Grammy Award winner, saxophone player, and bandleader cut his teeth with Béla Fleck and the Flecktones. Joey DeFrancesco Trio (December 3–6). Organist, trumpeter, and vocalist DeFrancesco has been nominated for a Grammy Award and has played with Miles Davis, James Moody, David Sanborn, and Ray Char-les. Joe Sample (December 17–20). Keyboardist and composer Sample founded the legendary Jazz Crusaders in the early 1970s. 3536 Washington, 314-289-4030, jazzstl.org/jazz-at-the-bistro.

Kranzberg Arts Center Matthew Muneses Quintet (Septem-ber 22). A precocious young Chicago sax player brings his ensemble to town. Jump ’n’ Funk (October 3). A multimedia celebration of musician Fela Kuti features drum and dance workshops with Kreative Pande-monium and a performance by Rich Medina & The Marksman. Additional events are held at 333 Beaumont. MoE. & Friends (October 10). Virtuoso jazz/electronica artist Mo Egeston (who’s worked with Brothers Lazaroff, CoCo Soul, and Thelonius Kryptonite) brings a huge cast of talented St. Louis musicians to the stage. The 442’s (November 26). The quartet features two jazz players and two symphony musicians; the music they create is almost a new genre. Jazz Sessions with Bob Deboo and Friends (Saturdays). Bassist Deboo hosts a rotating cast of local jazz musicians, who sit in with his trio or play during an open session at the end of the night. 501 N. Grand, 314-289-1500, kranzbergartscenter.org.

The Luminary How to Dress Well (September 22). This is solo artist Tom Krell, whoseinfluences include Lou Reed, Young Thug, and Taking Back Sunday. Pitch-fork called his latest, What Is This Heart, a “modern masterpiece.” Sharon Van Etten (October 15). The singer-songwriter’s latest record is the somber, thoughtful, and critically acclaimed Are We There. Mutual Benefit (October 27). After the release of last year’s twinkly, sad, and violin-filled Love’s Crushing Diamond, Stereogum named this group a band to watch. 2701 Cherokee, 314-773-1533, theluminaryarts.com.

New Music Circle Thumbscrew (September 12). The avant-garde jazz trio and composers’ cooperative features Mary Halvorson (guitar), Michael Formacek (bass), and Tomas Fujiwara (drums). Joe’s Cafe Gallery, 6010 Kingsbury. Eli Keszler and Rashad Becker (November 8). Keszler is a percussionist, sound artist, and composer who’s collaborated with artists from T-Model Ford to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra; Becker is a German-Syrian sound artist, composer, and supernatural audio engineer affiliated with Berlin’s Dubplates & Mastering studio. Together, they cre-ate a unique sound installation. The Luminary, 2701 Cherokee. Roscoe Mit-chell and Craig Taborn (December 5). Mitchell came up as a sax player in Chicago during the 1960s, collaborating with that city’s famous AACM collective as a founding member of the Art Ensemble of Chicago; he is still one of the most respected members of the free and avant-jazz community, and he’s also written chamber and contemporary classical music. He’s joined by pianist Taborn, who’s worked with sax player Lotte Anker, bassist William Parker, and drummer Gerald Cleaver. The Stage at KDHX, 3524 Washington, 888-662-7851, newmusiccircle.org.

Off Broadway The Breeders (September 2). Founded by Kim Deal of the Pixiesand Tanya Donelly of The Throwing Muses, The Breeders was never as famous as the pair’s primary bands,but the music was critically acclaimed across the board. Lee Bains III & The Glory Fires (September 3). Sub Pop describes the band’s new record, Dereconstructed, as “a master class in authentic Gulf Coast choogle.”Chris Knight (September 4). TheKentucky singer-songwriter’s tuneful songs have been recorded by Randy Travis and John Anderson. Tom Rus-sell (September 6). The Texas singer-songwriter’s material has been cov-ered by the legends (Johnny Cash! Ramblin’ Jack Elliott!), and he’s still going strong. Kid Congo Powers & The Pink Monkey Birds (Septem-ber 10). The Dublin Evening Herald says this former member of TheGun Club, The Cramps, and NickCave and the Bad Seeds “elevates seedy go-go weirdness to the levelof high art.” Tobacco (September 14). This is the electronica side project of Thomas Fec, otherwise known as Black Moth Super Rainbow. S. Carey (September 15). The S stands for Sean, as in Sean Carey, drummer for Bon Iver. Black Prairie (September 18). The Portland, Ore., bluegrass band released a new record, Fortune, this past spring. An Evening with Mary Gauthier and Sam Baker (Septem-ber 19). These two respected Americana singer-songwriters both have new records and hit the road together to promote them. Trust (Septem-ber 22). The Toronto synthpop duo (well, Pitchfork pegs it as “electro-goth”) has released records on twoof the world’s hippest labels—Brook-lyn’s Sacred Bones and Arts & Crafts. Slaid Cleaves (October 1). The Americana musician plays music inthe tradition of his heroes, includingWoody Guthrie, Johnny Cash, Chuck Berry, and Hank Williams. J Mascis (October 5). The frontman of Dino-saur Jr. has been dubbed one of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Timeby Rolling Stone. Mirah (October 6).The singer-songwriter landed in Brook-lyn by way of Olympia, Washington. Her new album, Changing Light, is the indie rock version of the orchestral, sweeping breakup album. DeathVessel opens. Lucius (October 9). Rolling Stone calls this Brooklyn trio “the best band you may not have heard yet.” Los Straitjackets (Octo-ber 17). The group plays surf rock in lucha libre masks. It sounds gimmicky, but the players have the guitar chops to back it up—they’ve been going since 1988. Deke Dickerson opens. Carolina Chocolate Drops (Octo-ber 19). This old-time string bandfrom Durham, North Carolina, can play the old ditties but isn’t afraid to integrate something like Blu Cantrell’s “Hit ’Em Up Style (Oops!).” 3509 Lemp, 314-773-3363, offbroadwaystl.com.

Old Rock House Orgone (September 6). The L.A. neo-funk band has often played backupfor hip-hop acts. The SteelDrivers (September 6). This Nashville bluegrass band’s latest is Hammer Down, released on Rounder Records. Theband appears as part of The Listen-ing Room Series. Sam Bush (Septem-ber 11). Virtuoso mandolin player Bush is credited as one of the inventors of newgrass. Pokey LaFarge’s Central Time Tour (September 12). St. Louis’ own Pokey LaFarge, he of old-school high style both in clothing and music, returns from his world travels to play his hometown. The show is in the Old Rock House Outdoor Pavilion. Life in Color (September 13). Old Rock House has hosted this popular touring electro-nica fest for several years now. AndyMcKee (September 18). The Ameri-can finger-style picker’s audience has widened from not only his live shows but also his popular videos on You-Tube. Bob Mould Band (September 19). The former Hüsker Dü frontman’s latest is Beauty & Ruin. Cymbals Eat Guitars opens. Snarky Puppy (September 21). The Denton, Texas, fusion band works with a collective of up to 40 musicians. Banda Magda opens. J Boog (September 24). The rap art-ist also has a serious R&B streak. Hot Rain and Proverbial open. Whiskey Myers (September 25). The Texas band released Early Morning Shakes earlier this year through its own Wiggy Thump label. 7Horse opens. Poliça (October 1). Its 2013 record, Shulamith, was dedicated to controversial radical feminist—and St. Louis native—Shulamith Firestone. Greensky Bluegrass (October 2). The happy-go-lucky bluegrass quartet launched10 years ago, and since then, it’s played all over the world, including at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. The Wood Brothers (October 5). Theyplay Americana and blues, and they really are brothers with the last name Wood: Chris and Oliver, respectively. Aaron Carter (October 14). The teen pop sensation is now not a teen any-more—and his musical tastes have grown up, too. Temples (October 15). These young ’uns draw on old-school stuff—T. Rex, Syd Barrett, Hawkwind—and totally own it. The Districts open. Carbon Leaf (October 20). Its new record, Ghost Dragon Attacks Castle, pairs traditional Celtic music with full-onslaught rock ’n’ roll. We Were Promised Jetpacks (October 26).The Scottish indie band’s newestdisc, Unravelling, is called one of its most accomplished to date. Rubblebucket (October 28). The upbeat Brooklyn indie-dance group’s latest is Survival Sounds. Landlady opens. Adrian Belew Power Trio (Novem-ber 21). Belew is an old head—he wasa prog-rock star with King Crimson—and has become a critically acclaimed and well-respected bandleader and guitarist over his multidecade career. Rusko (November 29). The U.K. dub-step DJ came up with the ’90s rave scene, and he’s still doing his thing. Widdler and PlunkiE open. 1200 S. Seventh, 314-588-0505, oldrockhouse.com.

The PageantTheory of a Deadman (September 3). This Canadian rock band with a twist of country was the first act to sign with 604 Records, a project of Chad Kroeger of Nickelback. The Mighty Mighty Bosstones (September 12). The third-wave ska band from Boston is perhaps best known for the 1997 hit “The Impression That I Get.” Die Antwoord (September 16). This South African “rap-rave” duo has a feral image and filthy lyrics. Iron & Wine (September 17). The folky sound of this ongoing project of singer-songwriter Sam Beam has become more jazz-inflected of late. Social Distortion (September 18). The legendary Southern California punk band’s latest is Hard Times and Nursery Rhymes. Spoon (September 20). The Austin, Texas, band plays fun, loopy indie rock. Jordan Knight and Nick Carter (September 21). They’re on the road together for the Nick & Knight tour. Rise Against (September 23). The Chicago punk band’s most recent record is titled I Don’t Want To Be Here Anymore. Matisyahu (October 1). Also known as Matthew Paul Miller, he created a totally new vision with his mix of rap, reggae, and Orthodox Jewish themes. Radical Something opens. Robin Trower (October 4). The for-mer Procol Harum and Jethro Tull guitarist has branched into his own version of bluesy roots music. Tak-ing Back Sunday (October 6). This Amityville, New York, band is best known for its 2006 hit “MakeDamnSure.” The Used and Frnkiero andthe Cellabration open. George Thorogood & The Destroyers (October 8). If you’ve enjoyed a Bud in a South Side bar anytime within the last 20 years, you’ve surely heard this blues-rock guitarist’s best-known tune, “Bad to the Bone.” Under The Streetlamp (October 12). This band was formed by the actors who played The Four Seasons in the Broadway musicalJersey Boys. Gentleman’s Rule opens. King Diamond (October 22). KimBendix Petersen, better known to the world as King Diamond, is the progeni-tor of Scandinavian death metal. The Pretty Reckless (October 23). Thisis a rock band from New York. Also, the lead vocalist and guitarist is Taylor Momsen of Gossip Girl fame. Ani DiFranco (October 25). DiFranco isa singer, songwriter, poet, and femi-nist icon—she also collaborated with folk singer Utah Phillips. Jenny Scheinman opens. Bassnectar (October 28). California DJ Lorin Ashton’s live shows, which include light shows, are a legacy of his upbringing in a Bay Area commune. Kill Paris opens. Amon Amarth (October 29). A melodic death metal band from Sweden, it plays with Sabaton and Skeletonwitch. Boyce Avenue (November 4). This rock trio is made up of Puerto Rican–American brothers Alejandro, Fabian, and Daniel Manzano; the band’s latest is No Limits. The New Pornographers (November 10). The hard-to-classify band is a little bit rootsy but a littletoo weird and poppy to really qualify for that label; the overarching truth is that the members are brilliant collaborators and songwriters. The band lineup includes A.C. Newman, Neko Case, and Dan Bejar of Destroyer. The Pains of Being Pure at Heart opens. Timeflies (November 11). The Boston duo’s sound is grounded in pop, electro, dubstep, and rock. New Politics (November 12). The Danish band’s sound has been described as post-punk that you can dance to. Better Than Ezra (November 13). The New Orleans indie rock trio’s new record is Crazy Lucky. Here Come the Mummies (November 14). It’s true! Because the members really do dress like mummies—and still somehow play their instruments. They do it quite well, in fact. The Mavericks (Novem-ber 23). The garage-country bandhas broken up and come back toge-ther and is now playing to sold-out houses. 6161 Delmar, 314-726-6161, thepageant.com.

Peabody Opera House Jason Mraz (October 16). Two-time Grammy Award–winning singer-songwriter Mraz rocketed from theSan Diego coffeehouse scene to the top 10. Raining Jane opens. Widespread Panic (October 21 & 22). The Athens, Georgia, jam band melds swamp rock, funk, hard rock, and the groovy wavelengths of Phish and the Dead. 1400 Market, 314-499-7600, peabodyoperahouse.com.

Plush YACHT (September 16). The bouncy electrofunk duo’s newest, Plastic Soul, is its first release since 2011. White Fang and Née open. Parachute (September 18). Overnight is the latest album from this Charlottesville, Virgi-nia, group. This is an all-ages show. Sham 69 (September 22). The old-school English punk band is tour-ing with its 1977 lineup. Total Chaos, Scene of Irony, and Hard Evidence open. Southeast x (Old North) St. Louis (September 27). This show is a benefit for the Old North SaintLouis Restoration Group. Five Eight, The Pauses, and Covus and Canisperform. Moot Davis (October 1). Davis must have some magic goingon with his new record, Goin’ In Hot.A few days after it wrapped, the recording studio burned down—yetthe recordings survived. The Lonesome Threesome opens. 3224 Locust, 314-535-2686, plushstl.com.

The Ready Room The Afghan Whigs (September 12). After breaking up in the early ’00s, this Cincinnati indie band is now back with a less garagey, more soulful sound. Joseph Arthur opens. Five Feeler (September 13). Formed in the late ’90s, this band specializes in straightforward rock ’n’ roll. Man Eating Tiger opens. The Black Lips (September 15). The Atlanta “flower punks” in this band have a new record out called Underneath the Rainbow. The King Khan and BBQ Show opens. Tennis (September 18). Tennis is a husband-and-wife indie duo from Denver that is appearing with Pure Bathing Culture. Ron Pope (Octo-ber 2). The singer-songwriter’s best-known hit thus far is “A Drop in the Ocean.” tUnE-yArDs (October 7).Merrill Garbus is known for her quirky voice, her African influences, and her masterful manipulation of digital sounds. The War on Drugs (October 12). This band is made up of “Philadelphia rock titans,” per its own description—good ’nuff. Charli XCX (October 14). This British singer-songwriter is known for her own songs (e.g., “!Franchesckaar!”) as well as the ones she writes for other artists—including Icona Pop’s “I Love It” and Iggy Azalea’s “Fancy.” Elliphant and Femme open. Allen Stone (October 18). The neo-hippie soul and R&B artist hails from the state of Washington. Bad Rabbits and Tommy & The High Pilots open.St. Paul and the Broken Bones (Octo-ber 29). This soul band performs in suits and bow ties, but the members freak out with the passion of earlier soul artists like James Brown. The band’s newest record is Half the City. Jessica Hernandez and The Deltas open. 4195 Manchester, 314-833-3929, thereadyroom.com.

Scottrade Center Eric Church: The Outsiders World Tour (September 13). Church has been dubbed a “recession-era country star.” Dwight Yoakam opens. Pearl Jam (October 3). Eddie Vedder and company helped define the Seattle grunge sound of the early 1990s. The Black Keys (December 9). See box (p. 17). 1401 Clark, 314-622-5435, scottradecenter.com.

The Sheldon Concert Hall Folk & Roots Festival (Septem-ber 26). This third annual folk fest kicks off in The Sheldon’s acoustically perfect auditorium with a concertfrom Sarah Jarosz with Blue Canyon Boys. Other Grand Center festival venues include Strauss Park, TheFolk School, and The Stage at KDHX. Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives (October 3). The Gram-my Award–winning country musician is inspired by the sounds of the Mississippi Delta and has played with Merle Haggard and Johnny Cash. Hugh Masekela and Vusi Mahlasela (October 4). World-renowned African musicians Masekela and Mahlasela performs a program titled “20 Years of Freedom: Featuring South Africa’s Freedom Songs.” Cornet Chop Suey (October 7 & 8). This St. Louis jazz, swing, and blues band will get you moving. Chick Corea (October 11).The Grammy Award–winning jazzkeyboardist performs a rare soloconcert. 250 Years of St. Louis Music: American Music at Its Best! (October 17). This musical tribute to St. Louis includes appearances by Denise Thimes, Peter Martin, Kim Massie, Billy Peek, and Alarm Will Sound. Willie Watson (October 20). The former Old Crow Medicine Show member performs acoustic guitar, banjo, and jawharp tunes inspired by the traditional music of Appalachia. Chanticleer (October 28). The all-male a cappella vocal ensemble performs 13th-century hymns as well as contemporary gospel. SpokFrevo Orquestra (November 2). This swinging Brazilian big band is led bythe charismatic Maestro Spok. The Wailin’ Jennys (November 7). The roots trio has sung on A Prairie Home Companion and appears at folk festi-vals around the world. The Cavatina Duo (November 8). The duo comprises Spanish flutist Eugenia Moliner and Bosnian classical guitarist Denis Azabagic. Swing Xing! (November 15). This show is subtitled “Three Generations of Swing Guitar,” featuring Bucky Pizzarelli, Frank Vignola, and Vinny Raniolo. That’s all ya need to know. Brian Owens: A Tribute to Nat King Cole (November 18 & 19). Gifted St. Louis singer Brian Owens performs Cole’s classic works, including songs like “Mona Lisa” and “Unforgettable.” Rosanne Cash (November 20). Cash, the daughter of legendary country singer Johnny Cash, is legendary in her own right. Peter Martin Music (November 21). St. Louis’ own jazz piano virtuoso performs with spe-cial musical guests. 3648 Wash-ington, 314-533-9900, sheldonconcerthall.org.

The Saint Louis Chamber Chorus Concert I (October 5). The chorus kicks off its season with a program of music featuring Felix Mendelssohn and con-temporary British composer Judith Bingham. Saint Louis Abbey, 500 S. Mason. Concert II (November 9). This program features Heitor Villa-Lobos’ Mass ofSt. Sebastian and Juan Gutierrez de Padilla’s double choir psalms. St. Cecilia, 5418 Louisiana, 636-458-4343, chamberchorus.org. 

St. Louis Symphony St. Louis Symphony Opening Week-end (September 12 & 13). David Robertson conducts; the concert features Yefim Bronfman on piano and Erin Schreiber on violin. The program includes Johannes Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 1, Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending, and Carl Nielsen’s Symphony No. 4, The Inextinguishable. Live at Powell Hall: Pirates of the Caribbean, Dead Man’s Chest (September 19–21). Richard Kaufman conducts the soundtrack to Dead Man’s Chest during a screening of the film. Sibelius, Adams, Prokofiev (September 27 & 28). David Robertson conducts a program featuring JeanSibelius’ The Swan of Tuonela, John Adams’ My Father Knew Charles Ives, and Sergei Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 5. Brahms (October 4 & 5). The St. Louis Symphony Chorus performs a program of Johannes Brahms’ Four Preludes and Serious Songs and Ein Deutsches Requiem. Tchaikovsky (October 10–12). The program, conducted by Cristian Macelaru, includes Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “Polonaise” from Eugene Onegin, Sérénade mélancolique, Pezzo capriccioso, the Fantasy-Overture from Romeo and Juliet, The Tempest, and the 1812 Overture. Leonard Slatkin Conducts (October 17 & 19). Former St. Louis Symphony conductor Leonard Slatkin returns, conducting his own composition, Endgames, as well as Max Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1 and Victor Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique. The performance features David Halen on violin. Gala Concert (October 18). David Robertson con-ducts; the performance features pianist Lang Lang and flutist Mark Sparks performing Johann Sebastian Bach’s Suite No. 2 in B Minor and Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1. Panufnik, Mendelssohn, and Sibelius (October 24 & 25). John Storgårds con-ducts a program featuring Andrzej Pan-ufnik’s Landscape, Felix Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto, and Sibelius’ Symphony No. 1. Live at Powell Hall: Gladiator (October 31–November 2). Justin Freer conducts; the show features the St. Louis Symphony Chorus and the orchestra performing the live soundtrack to a screening of Gladiator. Sibelius, Grieg, Schumann, Liszt (November 7 & 8). Hannu Linto conducts; guest artists include Mar-kus Groh (piano) and horn players Roger Kaza, Thomas Jöstlein, and Tod Bowermaster. On the program: Sibelius’ Lemminkäinen’s Return; Edvard Grieg’s Piano Concerto; Robert Schumann’s Concertstück for Four Horns and Orchestra; and Franz Liszt’s Les Préludes. Beethoven (November 15 & 16). Jun Märkl conducts; the con-cert features Orli Shaham (piano), Helen Kim (violin), and Xiaoxiao Qiang (violin). The all-Beethoven program includes his Piano Concerto No. 1;Romance No. 1 for Violin and Orch-estra; Romance No. 2 for Violin and Orchestra; and Symphony No. 1. Mussorgsky, Massenet, Tchaikovsky, Grieg, Reich, and Copland (Novem-ber 21). David Robertson conducts this concert, featuring violinists Dana Edson Myers, Rebecca Boyer Hall, and Ling Ling Guan. On the program: Modest Mussorgsky’s Night on Bald Mountain; Jules Massenet’s Méditation from Thaïs; Tchaikovsky’s Marche slave; selections from Grieg’s Peer Gynt; Steve Reich’s Duet; and Aaron Copland’s “Four Dance Episodes,” from Rodeo. Schumann and Mahler (November 22 & 23). David Robertson conducts. The performance features mezzo-soprano Susan Graham; tenor Paul Groves; and cellist Daniel Lee.On the program: Schumann’s Cello Concerto and Gustav Mahler’s DasLied von der Erde. Daugherty, Bern-stein, Norman, Gershwin (Novem-ber 28–30). David Robertson con-ducts. The show features Michael Daugherty’s Hell’s Angels, Leonard Bernstein’s “Symphonic Dances” from West Side Story, Andrew Norman’s “Try,” and George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue.” Powell Symphony Hall, 718 N. Grand, 314-534-1700, slso.org.

Books & Film

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Cinema St. Louis St. Louis International Film Festival (November 13–23). One of the largest international film festivals in the Midwest highlights worldwide cinematic achievements for another year. Cate-gories include short subjects, narra-tive features, and documentaries. Children and teens from local schools can gain free entrance to the festival during daytime screenings. See box. 3547 Olive, 314-289-4150, cinemastlouis.org.

Left Bank Books Julia Gibson: Copper Magic (Sept-ember 9). Violet, a 12-year-old grow-ing up on the edge of Lake Michigan, discovers a magical copper hand just in time to save or jeopardize her family and their farm. Gailmarie Pahmeier: The Rural Lives of Nice Girls (September 22). This collection of poems integrates entrancing imagery of the rural Midwest with emotionally charged pieces of loss and loneliness. Kate Gale, William Trowbridge &Ron Koertge (November 19). Gale is the managing editor of the Red Hen Press and editor of The Los AngelesReview. Trowbridge is the poet laureate of Missouri, and Koertge has been honored by the American Library Association. 399 N. Euclid, 314-367-6731; 321 N. 10th, 314-436-3049; left-bank.com.

St. Louis Public Library Bill Donius (September 3) TheSt. Louis native and former CEO’slatest venture, Thought Revolution,is a book containing all his secrets to unlock the hidden potential of your brain. Phil Klay (September 23). View the battlegrounds in Afghanistan and Iraq and the psychologically torn perspectives of soldiers on the front lines through the eyes of Klay in Redeployment. 1301 Olive, 314-241-2288, slpl.org.

Subterranean Books Ann Leckie (October 8). The science-fiction sequel to Ancillary Justice, Ancillary Sword, was the winner of a Nebula Award, the Arthur C. Clarke Award, the British Science Fiction Association Award, a James Tip-tree Honour, and the Kitschies’ Gol-den Tentacle. University City Public Library, 6701 Delmar, 314-862-6100, subbooks.com.

Tavern of Fine Arts River Styx at the Tavern: Amit Majmudar and Murray Farish (Sep-tember 15). Local short-story writer Farish is joined by Cleveland poetand novelist Majmudar. River Styxat the Tavern: Sena Jeter Naslundand Jason Sommer (October 20). Naslund is a Harper Lee Award win-ner; poet Sommer’s latest is The Laughter of Adam and Eve. 313 Belt, 314-367-6731, left-bank.com.

Webster University Film 

Series Illuminate Film Festival: A Century through Cinema (September 5).The film series is shedding light on100 years in the film world with live music and award-winning films such as The Marathon and The Fresh-man. Marsha Mason’s Only When I Laugh (September 19). Mason is a Webster University alumna and is returning to her campus to showcase her acclaimed film for one evening. Winifred Moore Auditorium, 470 E. Lockwood, 314-968-7487, webster.edu/film-series.

Visual Art

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Bruno David Gallery Buzz Spector: “New Work” (Sep-tember 5–October 4). Spector, the Jane Reuter Hitzeman and HerbertF. Hitzeman Jr. Professor of Art atWashington University, is internationally known for his photographs, printmaking, installations, and sculptures, as well as for his poetryand critical writing. His work often centers on books, authors, and book culture. Leslie Laskey: “Embrology” (October 17–November 15). A professor emeritus of architecture at Wash. U.,Laskey is known for his elegant, gra-phic works on paper, shown here with “Frank Schwaiger: Ritual Acts…” Tom Reed: “New Work” (Novem-ber 21–January 17). The master printmaker and painter’s work is often “characterized by colorfully muted tree stumps, teepees, totem poles, and flowers.” 3721 Washington, 314-531-3030, brunodavidgallery.com.

Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis Mel Chin: “Rematch” (Septem-ber 5–December 20). See box. Mark Flood: “Another Painting” (September 5–January 3). Houston-based artist Mark Flood’s recent work incor-porates lace and text. 3750 Washington, 314-535-4660, camstl.org.

Craft Alliance Center of Art + Design “Precision Cut” (September 5–October 26). This showcase presents the latest in woodwork, including furniture, sculptures, and designs from national artists. The exhibit is curated by Steve Keeble and Stefanie Kirkland. 6640 Delmar, 314-725-1177; craftalliance.org.

Duane Reed Gallery “Repetition, Rhyme, Pattern” (September 12–October 18). Cu-rated by Jane Sauer, this exhibition examines the umbrella idea of repetition, looking at themes of rhythm, pattern, echo, and more. 4729 McPherson, 314-361-4100, duanereedgallery.com.

fort gondo/beverly Stephanie Schlaifer and Cheryl Wassenaar: “Clarkston St. Polaroids” (September 6–October 4). Shown with the ex-hibit at beverly: See works from Chicago sculptor Joseph Cassan and former St. Louisan and gondo collaborator Mike Schuh, who’s now in Chicago. “Ilene Berman” (October 18–Novem-ber 15). Shown with the exhibit at beverly: VSA Missouri, which works with artists with disabi-lities, presents its annual anthology exhibition, this year titled “Turning Clocks Forward Again.” “Peter Pranschke” (November 27–December 29). Shown with the exhibit at beverly: See work bySt. Louis artist Cole Lu, whose installations grapple with tech-nology, language, film, and meta-physics. 3151 and 3155 Chero-kee, fortgondo.com.

Foundry Art Centre “Fiber Fever” (through Sep-tember 19). This group showof fiber art is juried by MarkNewport, artist-in-residenceand head of fiber at the Cran-brook Academy of Art. “Pho-tography V” (September 26–November 7). This open-theme exhibition invites artists using photographic processes with traditional and experimental methods to show their work.520 N. Main Center, St. Char-les, 636-255-0270, foundryartcentre.org.

Gallery Visio “Comic Explosion” (August 27–September 26). Comic art, an interactive workshop, and anartist symposium make this ex-hibition of local artists an ad-venture in comic books. “New Student Photo Project” (Octo-ber 8–31). The gallery partners with the university’s New Stu-dent Programs to curate a sel-ection of Instagram images por-traying the early weeks of school for new students. Millennium Student Center, 1 University, University of Missouri–St. Louis, 314-516-7922, umsl.edu/~galvisio.

Laumeier Sculpture Park Kranzberg Exhibition Series 2014: Tom Huck, “Bugs” (Octo-ber 3). The St. Louis printmaker translates his “Bugz” series intoplayground springers for a perm-anent exhibit at Laumeier’s Children’s Sculpture Garden. “Laune: A Dance Performance” (October 4). Kranzberg Exhibition Series artist, dancer, and choreographer Ashley McQueen has choreographed a commissioned piece featuring dancers treading on the beautiful grass growing in Laumeier’s Way Field. 12580 Rott, 314-615-5278, laumeiersculpturepark.org.

The Luminary “Late capitalism, it’s like, almost over” (September 19–closing date to be announced). This group show is the second installment in the Luminary’s “Sporadic Democracy” series. 2701 Cherokee, 314-773-1533, theluminaryarts.com.

Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum Drawing Ambience: Alvin Boy-arsky and the Architectural Association” (September 12–January 4). This collection of architectural drawings is from Alvin Boyarsky, who served asthe chairman of the Architectu-ral Association in London untilhis death in 1990. “Encounter-ing the City: The Urban Experience in Contemporary Art” (September 12–January 4). Sculpture, photography, video, and painting are used to examine the urban landscape.“Picturing Narrative: Greek Mythology in the Visual Arts” (September 12–January 4). Artistic works re-veal the connection between visual expression and ancient Greece, looking at the way artists have both been inspired by ancient Greece and influenced public perception of it. Wash-ington University, Forsyth and Skinker boulevards, 314-935-4523, kemperartmuseum.wustl.edu.

Millstone Gallery “Breathe: Maria Ojascastro and Rudy Zapf” (through Septem-ber 28). Using their work as a reflection on resilience, the artists share their works in media including print, paint, text, and found objects. COCA, 524 Trinity, 314-725-6555, cocastl.org.

Missouri History Museum“Watershed Cairns” (August 16–February 8). St. Louis is naturally bound to the rivers and streams that populate the region, ashighlighted by this photography exhibit. “The Louisiana Pur-chase: Making St. Louis, Re-making America” (October 25–April 19). The Missouri History Museum dives into the decision that doubled the size of thecountry and its impact on thecity. 5700 Lindell, Forest Park, 314-746-4599, mohistory.org.

Museum of Contemporary Religious Art Rebecca Niederlander: “Axis Mundi” (September 14–closing date to be announced). The first site-specific installation for the museum features L.A. artist Rebecca Niederlander, who will use 2-D, 3-D, and multidimensional components to consider the connections between people and the surrounding world. Saint Louis University, 3700 West Pine Mall, 314-977-7170, slu.edu/mocra.xml.

Saint Louis Art Museum “Janaina Tschäpe: The Ocean Within” (through October 19). A 2013 video reflects on views of the landscape, whether real or imagined, through the eyes of German and Brazilian artist Janaina Tschäpe. “Louis IX: King,Saint, Namesake” (August 29–November 2). This exhibition presents both notable art from the titular royal’s reign and later works inspired by the 13th-century king. 1 Fine Arts, Forest Park, 314-721-0072, slam.org.

Saint Louis University Museum of Art “The Dream” Presented by The Winter Family Collection and “The Dreamer” (through Octo-ber 12). The exhibit features 85 pieces, including sculptures, paint-ings, works on paper, and fine art prints by 25 artists, including Edson Campos, Alicia LaChance, Mackenzie Thorpe, Harry Weber, and Bruno Vekemans. 3663 Lindell, 314-977-3399, slu.edu/sluma.xml.

White Flag Projects “A Film to be Determined by Sara Greenberger Rafferty” (September 5). White Flag continues its artist-curated film series, withthe movie only announced just before screening time. “Shit Like Hair” (September 6–Octo-ber 18). White Flag opens its fall season in the main gallery with a group show. New York artist DenaYago’s work will be on exhibit in the library. “A Film to be Determined by Rob Pruitt” (September 19). White Flag continues its artist-curated film series, withthe movie only announced just before screening time. “Lucas Blalock” (November 8–Decem-ber 20). Frieze describes Blalock’s heavily manipulated photographs as “hyper-real and hyper-false.” 4568 Manchester, 314-531-3442, whiteflagprojects.org.

World Chess Hall of Fame“A Memorable Life: A Glimpse into the Complex Mind of Bobby Fischer” (through June 7). Never-before-showcased ma-terials make this collection anin-depth look into the life and career of Bobby Fischer. “LivingLike Kings” (October 9–April 26). The connection between hip-hop and chess is formed by their shared history as cultural markers. 4652 Maryland, 314-367-9243, worldchesshof.org.

Fairs & Festivals

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Big Muddy Blues Festival (August 30 & 31). This year’s fest-ival features headliners Guitar Shorty and Samantha Fish, with appearances from Lil’ Ed and the Blues Imperials, Tinsley Ellis, and more national and local blues acts. Free, with ticketed special events. 3 p.m. to midnight both days. La-clede’s Landing, 314-241-5875, bigmuddybluesfestival.com.

St. Louis World’s Fare (September 12, 13 & 14). Em-brace the history of the city with the St. Louis World’s Fare, a new annual festival showcasing art, music, dance, and food in Forest Park. Free. 4–10 p.m. Fri, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Sat & Sun. stlworldsfare.com.

The Great Forest Park Balloon Race (September 19 & 20). See box.

Taste of St. Louis (September 19, 20 & 21). This year marks the 10th anniversary of Taste of St. Louis, a culinary festival and cultural fair that feeds all of the senses. 4–10 p.m. Fri, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Sat, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Sun. Chesterfield Central Park & Amphitheater, 631 Veter-ans, Chesterfield, 314-534-2100, tastestl.com.

Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival (September 20). Pack up your lawn chairs for 11 solid hours of jazz and blues. With kids’ activities and restaurants providing food and drinks for all ages, it offers wide appeal. Free. Noon–11 p.m. Stages at Lockwood and N. Gore avenues and Lockwood and Allen avenues, oldwebsterjazzfestival.com.

Greater St. Louis Hispanic Festival (September 26–28). This event includes Hispanic folkloric dancers, live music, food and drinks from Latin and South America, a Los Niños Kids Corner, and more. Free. 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri & Sat,11 a.m.–9 p.m. Sun. 314-837-6100, hispanicfestivalstl.com.

Art in the Park (September 28). Over 60 artists from Missouri and Illinois will participate in this event. Visitors can browse booths with pottery, glass, textiles, jewelry, sculpture, paintings, photography and more while listening to the Ralph Butler Band and The Presentations. Food is provided by neighborhood restaurants, and kids can tap into their own creativity in a kids' art area or by watching robotics projects by students and Bishop DuBourg High School's Robotics Team. There will also be vintage autos at the Saint Louis Hills Classic Car Show, and a game played by the Lafayette Square Cyclones Vintage Baseball Club. There will also be an art raffle; proceeds go to benefit public art in the park. Free. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Francis Park, Nottingham and Childress, 314-752-3185. 

Strange Folk Festival (September 27 & 28). Autumn Wiggins, proprietor of The Up-cycle Exchange, founded this annual indie craft festival. She focuses on quality, not quantity—she’s capped it at 150 vendors to ensure that browsing handmade, recycled, and vintage wares in O’Fallon Community Park is a totally fabulous experience. The event also includes live music, food from local restaurants, and kids’ activities, with “friendly, leashed” dogs allowed as well. Free. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Sat & Sun. O’Fallon Community Park, 401 E. Fifth, O’Fallon, Ill., strangefolkfestival.com.

Best of Missouri Market (October 3, 4 & 5). The Missouri Botanical Garden hosts this three-day event each year that features more than 120 Missouri food pro-ducers and crafters. It draws in about 25,000 people each year to shop around the toys, jewelry, handicrafts, fruits, vegetables,and more. 6–9 p.m. First LookFri, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. market hours Sat (plus 8–9 a.m. members’ hour), 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Sun. Mis-souri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw, 314-577-5100, mobot.org.

The American Arts Experience – St. Louis (October 3–19). This annual multi-genre, multiplatform, multiday extravaganza celebrates art with an American accent. Participa-ting organizations include ArtSt. Louis, Dance St. Louis, Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, Metro Theatre Company, The Sheldon, the St. Louis Symphony, The Hett Center for the Arts, and more. Venues, times, and prices vary; visit website for details. americanartsstl.org.

Highland Arts Council Art in the Park (October 11 & 12). Highland Arts Council presents the 11th annual Art in the Park event, a two-day juried art fair that presents a vibrant selection of artwork amid the rich colors of fall. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sat, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sun. Lindendale Park, 2005 Park Hill, Highland, Ill., 618-558-0054, highlandartscouncil.org.

Gardenland Express (November 22–January 3).The Gardenland Express Holi-day Flower and Train Show charms guests each year witha range of G-scale trains chug-ging along 900 feet of track decorated with flowers. $5 in addition to garden admission for adults and children, garden members free. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily. Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw, 314-577-5100, mobot.org.