MARCH
Erika Johnson
MARCH 4 & 5
Blue notes and soulful tunes are coming to Jazz St. Louis in an eagerly awaited appearance by vocalist Erika Johnson. Hailing from East
St. Louis and a student of saxophonist Ronald Carter, Johnson’s spirited performance is an ode to her heritage and musical lineage. An array of St. Louis musicians will provide instrumental accompaniment, including Kasimu Taylor, Willem von Hombracht, and Antonio Foster. Jazz St. Louis, 3536 Washington.
Andrea Carlson: Endless Sunshine
MARCH 6–AUGUST 9
The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis is back with yet another immersive exhibition, this time featuring art on an unconventional medium: birchbark. Andrea Carlson’s collection, Endless Sunshine, harkens to her Grand Portage Ojibwe and Scandinavian ancestry. The exhibit explores how Indigenous history and remembrance displaces the American landscape as it’s portrayed in mainstream museums, archives, and art. Standing before multi-panel paintings, the viewer is confronted with settings that embody Indigenous land dispossession. Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, 3750 Washington.
Dialogues & Conversations
MARCH 6–AUGUST 9
Dialogues & Conversations is an artistic and literary walk-through of the history of the Pulitzer Arts Foundation that takes a truly interdisciplinary approach. A commemoration of the foundation’s 25th anniversary, the exhibition has been organized by founder Emily Rauh Pulitzer herself. It combines works from Pulitzer’s personal collection with pieces from the Saint Louis Art Museum and Harvard Art Museums that recall the beginnings of Pulitzer’s curatorial career. Viewers can also read 12 essays penned by the artists, curators, and architects who have shaped the Pulitzer Arts Foundation— including renowned architect Tadao Ando, who designed the gallery space. Pulitzer Arts Foundation, 3716 Washington.
Roads, Rivers, Rooms, and Reels
MARCH 14, 2026—OCTOBER 31, 2027
Although most St. Louisans are familiar with local Route 66 signage, few know The Mother Road’s origin story. To mark 100 years of the cross-country highway, the National Museum of Transportation is hosting a new exhibition about how Route 66 as we know it today came to be. With a nostalgic touch that includes letters from community members, the exhibit shares memories of the 66 Park-In Theatre, a midcentury sentimental favorite, and a 26-foot model of the steamboat S.S. Admiral, a nod to the roads and rivers that infused St. Louis with life. National Museum of Transportation, 2933 Barrett Station.
Ring of Fire
MARCH 18–APRIL 12
Ring of Fire brings the exhilarating tale of Johnny Cash’s life and loves to the stage at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis. Adapted from the Broadway production of the same name, this musical boasts more than 30 of Cash’s hit songs and stars world-class actors and musicians. The Rep will have a series of special matinée and evening shows throughout the run, including exclusive post-show talks, ladies’ nights, and more. Loretto-Hilton Center, 130 Edgar.
Can’t-Miss Shows in March
3/1: Christopher Cross, The Factory
3/5: Pallbeater, Off Broadway
3/6: Colter Wall, Stifel Theatre; Capstan, Off Broadway
3/7: Zach Bryan, The Dome at America’s Center; October London, Stifel Theatre
3/8: Drew & Ellie Holcomb, The Pageant
3/10: Our Lady Peace, The Sovereign
3/11: Vitamin String Quartet, The Sheldon
3/12: Adam Weiner AKA Low Cut Connie, City Winery; Subtronics, The Factory; Lucero, Old Rock House
3/13: Jordan Ward, Delmar Hall; Filter, Family Arena
3/14: Sawyer Brown and Lonestar, Family Arena
3/15: The Dollyrots, Off Broadway
3/16: NOTHING MORE, The Pageant
3/18: Rick Wakeman & Son, The Sheldon
3/20: 18th Annual Gateway Blues Festival, Chaifetz Arena
3/21: Ladysmith Black Mambazo, The Sheldon
3/22: Slaughter to Prevail, The Pageant
3/24: bbno$, The Pageant; Wednesday, Delmar Hall; Ratboys, Off Broadway
3/26: Ricky Montgomery, The Pageant
3/27: New Edition, Boyz II Men, and Toni Braxton, Enterprise Center; Jacqueline Novak, Delmar Hall
3/31: Machine Girl, Delmar Hall; Jordana, Off Broadway; Bad Suns, Red Flag
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APRIL
Ailey II
APRIL 10 & 11
In celebration of the 60th anniversary of Dance St. Louis, dance company Ailey II will take the stage at the Touhill Performing Arts Center. National dance critics have high praise for Ailey II, the second company of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Choreographed by renowned dancer Chalvar Monteiro, the electrifying, soul-stirring performance centers the music and lyricism of the Father of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Chuck Berry. Attendees can also join the pre-show Q&A, led by Dance St. Louis artistic director Michael Uthoff, for a behind-the-scenes look at the production. Touhill Performing Arts Center, 1 Touhill.
Patterns in Nature: The Art of HYBYCOZO
APRIL 10—SEPTEMBER 26
Witness lights and shadows dancing throughout the Missouri Botanical Garden’s grounds during Patterns in Nature. These 21 interactive sculptures by artists Serge Beaulieu and Yelena Filipchuk—some dangling from trees and others standing several feet high—will transform the garden into a geometric wonder by day. After dark, the installations will be illuminated with colorful lights and accompanied by live music, inspiring awe and encouraging exploration. Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw.
A Marvel in Motion
APRIL 11, 2026—FEBRUARY 26, 2028
Today, just a few people can fit inside the average Ferris wheel car, but the earliest models could hold up to 60. At the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair, the Ferris wheel cars were big enough to host an orchestra, a dinner party, and even a wedding. The Missouri History Museum’s exhibit A Marvel in Motion tells the history of that legendary attraction through artifacts, original drawings, and even a near-scale model of a Ferris wheel car. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell.
Beetlejuice
APRIL 24–26
Your favorite striped T-shirt might seem a bit spooky after seeing this Broadway favorite. Based on the 1988 movie of the same name, the musical Beetlejuice hits the Fox Theatre as part of a 29-city tour. After Lydia and her family move to a home that’s already occupied by a deceased couple and a ghoul with a unique fashion sense, things take a fun (if eerie) turn. Fox Theatre, 527 N. Grand.
Greater St. Louis Book Fair
APRIL 30—MAY 3
Whether you fancy the scent of new books or the nostalgia of used ones, check out the Greater St. Louis Book Fair. Since 1950, it has brought classic favorites and new releases to readers throughout St. Louis, as well as CDs, DVDs, and other media. Dozens of collectible books, including several first editions of literary classics, will also be available for sale. The book fair’s opening day requires a paid entry but is free every other day. Queeny Park, 550 Weidman.
Can’t-Miss Shows in April
4/1: GWAR, The Pageant
4/2: ASHNIKKO, The Pageant; I See Stars, Delmar Hall
4/3: SSX, Fubar
4/4: Danielle Nicole, Off Broadway
4/6: Boys Go To Jupiter, Off Broadway
4/8: Indigo De Souza, Delmar Hall; Goalkeeper, Fubar
4/9: Onslaught and Warlord, Red Flag
4/10: Black Pistol Fire, Delmar Hall
4/11: Third Day, Chaifetz Arena; Gladie, Off Broadway
4/12: Brandon Lake, Enterprise Center; Moon Walker, Blueberry Hill Duck Room
4/15: Stephen Wilson Jr., The Pageant; Des Rocs, Delmar Hall
4/17: Fishbone, Off Broadway
4/18: Cody Johnson, Chaifetz Arena; Alyssa Edwards, The Pageant
4/19: Comedy Music Roadshow, Delmar Hall; Everclear, The Sovereign
4/24: Hail The Sun, Delmar Hall; Shovels & Rope, Off Broadway
4/25: Anne Wilson and Peter Burton, Stifel Theatre; Boulet Brothers’ Dragula: Titans 2 Tour, The Sovereign; Jeffy and the Sunken Heads, Fubar
4/26: Behemoth, The Pageant
4/27: Iron & Wine, The Pageant; The Growlers, Off Broadway
4/28: Ethel Cain, The Factory
4/28+29: David Byrne, Stifel Theatre
4/29: Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Fox Theatre; Buckethead, Delmar Hall; Maddox Batson, The Factory
4/30: Esso, Old Rock House
Golden Year
Laumeier Sculpture park celebrates 50 years of merging art and nature
One of the treasures of St. Louis’ arts scene is turning 50, and it is celebrating with a full year of exciting programming. Laumeier Sculpture Park, one of the first and largest sculpture parks in the country, has featured more than 1,000 artists since its founding in 1976. Spread across more than 100 lush acres in Sunset Hills, the park encourages visitors to engage with both art and nature in new ways.
The current exhibition, Begin Again: 50 Years and Counting, which opened February 7, is just the first of several programs to mark Laumeier’s golden anniversary. The indoor exhibition looks back on five decades of artist contributions and commissions and includes a rarely seen selection of drawings, sketches, studies, photographs, sculptural models, and maquettes from Laumeier’s archives. Together, they tell the story of projects that have come and gone, as well as some that were never completed.
“Laumeier’s 50th anniversary is a momentous occasion,” said curator Dana Turkovic when Begin Again was announced. “The curatorial theme plays on ‘hidden histories,’ revisiting now-lost works and revealing how we have, since the beginning, approached the concept of sculpture as dynamic and even impermanent… This exhibition is simultaneously a crucial look at our past and a statement of our ongoing values.”
The celebratory 2026 programming continues in April with Begin Again: Juan William Chávez, Garden Wak’a, featuring Laumeier’s 2026 Visiting Artist in Residence in collaboration with 2026 Kranzberg Exhibition Artist Kiersten Torrez. Accompanying events include several hands-on nature opportunities, such as a guided migration bird walk and native pollinator and plant workshop. The final session of the park’s Art Adventurers Summer Camp will also take inspiration from Laumeier’s 50th anniversary: From July 27–31, the theme is “Party Like It’s 1976,” and kids ages 5–11 will experience life as it was in the 1970s through rare film screenings, giant public sculptures, and talks with special guests.
MAY
Ravel’s Daphnis and Chloé
MAY 8–10
More than 300 musicians will come together for this performance of Ravel’s Daphnis and Chloé, Kevin Puts’ 2019 work Virelai (originally commissioned by the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra), and the world premiere of Nathalie Joachim’s Family. Commissioned by the SLSO and composed during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, Joachim’s new piece took inspiration directly from members of the SLSO’s IN UNISON Chorus. This night of music and community will be led by Stéphane Denève, Kevin McBeth, and Erin Freeman. Powell Hall, 718 N. Grand.
Bach’s Magnificat
MAY 17
To close out its 85th year of music and masterworks, the Bach Society of Saint Louis will perform J.S. Bach’s Magnificat, a “joyous and colorful” work meant to embody celebration, as well as C.P.E. Bach’s Magnificat—a vibrant complement. Led by music director and conductor A. Dennis Sparger and featuring soloists Nola Richardson, Kim Leeds, Steven Soph, and Tyler Duncan, this concert is a fitting finale for the ensemble’s landmark season. Peace Lutheran Church, 737 Barracksview.
Fat Ham
MAY 20—JUNE 7
The year of Hamlet continues with the Black Rep’s production of Fat Ham, a modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s drama that puts a queer college student at the heart of the story. This Pulitzer Prize–winning play from James Ijames takes elements from the Bard’s plot and transports them to a barbecue in the American South. There, Juicy—the play’s protagonist—gets a visit from his father’s ghost, who wants his murder avenged. Edison Theatre at Washington University, 6445 Forsyth.
The Tempest
MAY 27—JUNE 21
The St. Louis Shakespeare Festival shows no signs of slowing down following its biggest season ever in 2025. The fest will once again make its home in Shakespeare Glen, where it will mount a free staging of The Tempest. Directed by Rick Dildine and starring Nancy Bell as the sorcerer Prospero, The Tempest will whisk audiences away to a mysterious island where love, trickery, and magic take hold. Shakespeare Glen, Forest Park.
Saint Louis Dance Theatre Spring Series
MAY 29–31
Saint Louis Dance Theatre will cap off its 2025–26 season, Love Languages, with a weekend of performances dedicated to human connection. The program comes to a crescendo with the company’s premiere of Stephanie Martinez’s kiss., which the choreographer describes as a love letter to “the fundamental human needs to be seen, to be heard, and to be honored.” In addition to kiss., Saint Louis Dance Theatre will also perform favorites from its repertoire. Catherine B. Berges Theatre at COCA, 6880 Washington.
Can’t-Miss Shows in May
5/1: R&B Lover’s Tour, Chaifetz Arena; Devon Allman’s Blues Summit, The Pageant; Joyce Manor, Delmar Hall; Jeffrey Martin, Off Broadway; Jay Webb, Old Rock House; Melissa Etheridge, The Factory
5/2: Foghat and Nazareth, Family Arena
5/3: Vana, Delmar Hall; Allie X, Off Broadway
5/4: Lambrini Girls, Delmar Hall
5/5: Marc Broussard, Delmar Hall; Bahamas, Off Broadway; Powerman 5000, The Sovereign
5/8: The Moss, Off Broadway
5/9: Nate Smith, The Pageant
5/11: Bring Me the Horizon, Enterprise Center; All That Remains, The Sovereign
5/14: Happy Landing, Old Rock House
5/15: Dayseeker, The Pageant; Anime Rave, Delmar Hall
5/19: Arm’s Length, Delmar Hall; Kid Cudi, Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
5/23: Phil Wickham, Chaifetz Arena
5/24: The Mountain Goats, Delmar Hall
5/27: Joshua Ray Walker, Off Broadway
5/29: Sam Bush, The Sheldon; Jackie Venson, Off Broadway; Kyle Smith, Old Rock House
5/30: Claypool Gold, The Factory
READ MORE: Add these upcoming book releases to your spring/summer TBR list
JUNE
We Will Rock You
JUNE 4–27
New Line Theatre is closing out its 34th season with a bang, staging the “fantastical rock fable” We Will Rock You. With 24 songs by Queen—including “Somebody to Love,” “Who Wants to Live Forever,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” and many more—and a story and script written by Ben Elton, the show was a West End smash. Check out New Line’s calendar for special performances and events, an after-party on opening night, a “Bohemian” night, and a post-show talkback. The Marcelle, 3310 Samuel Shepard.
Webster Arts Fair
JUNE 5–7
Each year, Webster Arts decamps from its gallery and takes over the Green at Eden Theological Seminary for a full weekend of fine art, food vendors, live music, family activities, and more. Be ready to browse the booths and take home a new favorite masterpiece from one of the dozens of artists who bring their talents and wares to charming historic Webster Groves each summer. Eden Theological Seminary, 475 E. Lockwood.
A Streetcar Named Desire
JUNE 7–26
In a season full of exciting performances, Opera Theatre of Saint Louis is taking time to honor one of St. Louis’ own with André Previn’s operatic adaptation of Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire, conducted by Daniela Candillari and featuring stage direction from Patricia Racette. Intense and affecting, Streetcar will be one of the summer’s most poignant dramas. Loretto-Hilton Center, 10 Edgar.
God of Carnage
JUNE 11–28
The New Jewish Theatre’s second production of the 2026 season, God of Carnage, invites audiences to be flies on the wall as two sets of parents gather in a Brooklyn living room to settle a playground scuffle between their sons. What begins as a polite meeting of liberal values and good intentions devolves into chaos, comedy, and—of course—carnage. This production is directed by Gad Guterman, associate professor of theater history at Webster University’s Sargent Conservatory of Theatre Arts. The Wool Studio Theatre at the J, 2 Millstone Campus.
Picturing Independence
JUNE 12, 2026—JANUARY 24, 2027
As the nation commemorates its 250th year, the Saint Louis Art Museum is marking the occasion with a free exhibition dedicated to patriotic imagery across centuries. Curated by Amy Torbert, the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation Associate Curator of American Art, Picturing Independence is organized into two sections: Picturing Revolution, which explores themes of the Revolutionary War and military service, and Symbols of the New Nation, which highlights American icons such as the bald eagle, the Stars and Stripes, and the Statue of Liberty. Saint Louis Art Museum, 1 Fine Arts.
Can’t-Miss Shows in June
6/2: Kings Kaleidoscope, Old Rock House
6/5: Telegraph South, Fubar; HARDY, Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
6/6: Satsang, Old Rock House
6/9: Solya, Off Broadway
6/10: Joe Jackson + Band, The Pageant; Citizen Soldier, Delmar Hall
6/12: Amyl and the Sniffers, The Factory
6/13: Megan Moroney, Enterprise Center; The Beths, The Pageant; Sammy Hagar, Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
6/19: Tigers Jaw, Delmar Hall; MGK, Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
6/24: Kelsy Karter & the Heroines, Off Broadway; Meghan Trainor, Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
6/27: Louis Tomlinson, Chaifetz Arena
6/30: Derek Hough, Stifel Theatre
July
South Pacific
JULY 6–12
Love and war are in the air at Forest Park. The Muny’s lineup includes Broadway favorite South Pacific, a heart-wrenching romance that sees the flirtations and trials of both an American World War II nurse and a charismatic older plantation owner, and a Marine and an islander. The thought-provoking musical from composer/lyricist duo Rodgers and Hammerstein won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1950. Its timeless tunes include “Some Enchanted Evening” and “There Is Nothin’ Like a Dame.” The Muny, 1 Theatre.
MATI
JULY 17–19
MATI, formerly known as Music at the Intersection, is leaving September behind and embracing summertime block party vibes with a move to July. The indoor-outdoor fest will include five main stages this year: The Sovereign, The Big Top, Jazz St. Louis, Sophie’s Artist Lounge, and, for the first time, The Fox Theatre. Grab a pass to enjoy the full experience, or stop by the free community block party for carnival rides, local eats, shopping, art activations, performances, and more. Grand Center.
Disney’s The Little Mermaid
JULY 17–19
Dive beneath the waves to follow a young mermaid’s journey at the Center of Creative Art’s upcoming production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Based on the cherished 1989 animated film, this tale of mermaid Ariel’s fascination with life on land soars with fan-favorite songs such as “Under the Sea” and “Kiss the Girl.” Appropriate for viewers of all ages, it’s a perfect family outing. Catherine B. Berges Theatre at COCA, 6880 Washington.
St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase
JULY 17–26
The 26th Whitaker St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase returns to the Hi-Pointe Theatre this summer, with a lineup of full-length narrative films and documentaries, alongside short films from genres that range from fiction to documentary. Organized by Cinema St. Louis, the 10-day festival gives regional talent a platform by spotlighting projects led by St. Louis filmmakers or those with local ties. Last year’s showcase had more than 75 films and a dozen curated programs, so keep an eye out for more details as the event approaches. Hi-Pointe Theatre, 1005 McCausland.
Guys and Dolls
JULY 24—AUGUST 23
The classic musical comedy Guys and Dolls is headed to the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center as part of STAGES’ 40th season. The gamblers, showgirls, and missionaries of this Broadway favorite set the stage for dramatic plot twists and plenty of giggles as they swindle and preach their way through New York City, hoping for a little luck to come their way. Kirkwood Performing Arts Center, 210 E. Monroe.
Can’t-Miss Shows in July
7/9: Tyler Childers, Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
7/10: Cinderella’s Tom Kiefer with Buckcherry, Family Arena
7/11: The Fray, St. Louis Music Park
7/18: John Violinist, City Winery
7/24: Death Cab for Cutie, Stifel Theatre; 5 Seconds of Summer, Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
7/25: Forrest Frank, Enterprise Center; Black Crowes, Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
7/28: Evanescence, Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
7/31: Benjamin Tod and the Inline Six, The Pageant
MARK YOUR CALENDAR: Looking for some of the biggest concerts coming through St. Louis this year? Check out The Big St. Louis Concert List.
