Folks, I’m gearing up for a whirlwind weekend spent going back and forth between St. Louis and Columbia, Missouri. True/False Film Festival takes over my old college stomping grounds Thursday through Sunday, and I’ll be soaking up all the art, music, and film I can on Thursday, Friday, and Sunday. But on Saturday, I’ll be trekking out to St. Charles with my mother for the Ozark Mountain Daredevils’ show at Family Arena. We’ve been waiting for this one since her birthday back in October, and I’m ready to hear some hits before returning to True/False on Sunday. I have a feeling I’ll still be recovering from this weekend by the time I get around to writing next week’s missive, but some things are just plain worth it. Speaking of worth it, this edition is packed full of worthwhile additions to your calendar—and your playlists—from our usual lineup of new weekly events to the annual spring and summer arts guide. Here’s to planning ahead. As always, thanks for subscribing, and feel free to reply to this email with your thoughts, ideas, and questions. Until next time!
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2024 Art in Bloom arrangement by Rebecca Bodicky, Alice Blue Collective. Courtesy of the Saint Louis Art Museum.
Die Zauberflote
Head to the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center this weekend to take in the fantastical story of Prince Tamino and the lovely Pamina as Winter Opera St. Louis stages Mozart’s Die Zauberflote (The Magic Flute). This timeless classic features a whimsical score and a colorful cast of characters, including Sarastro, the Queen of the Night, and the birdcatcher Papageno. February 28 & March 2. Kirkwood Performing Arts Center, 210 E. Monroe.
Art in Bloom
Art in Bloom returns to the Saint Louis Art Museum this weekend, bringing vibrant blossoms into the galleries. The annual celebration of flowers and fine art sees local floral designers interpret dozens of pieces in the museum collection using natural materials. There’s a full lineup of Art in Bloom events throughout the weekend—including demonstrations, family events, and afternoon tea service—so check out the calendar to find the best time to stop in and smell the roses. February 28–March 2. Saint Louis Art Museum, 1 Fine Arts.
The Hitmakers
For our March issue, music writers Joseph Hess and Steve Leftridge curated a collection of artists and bands that local music fans need to know right now. The expanded online list features a dozen entries covering everything from fast-picking bluegrass to high-brow hip-hop. In order to help you get to know them better, SLM has created a Spotify playlist featuring 11 of the 12 featured acts. (Next time you see Graham Curry, tell him to get into the studio ASAP.) Just hit play to discover your next favorite local artist.
On Her Terms
Bestselling author and Human Rights Campaign Visibility Award winner Amy Spalding is headed to the Novel Neighbor’s Neighborhood space on Saturday to celebrate the release of her newest romance novel, On Her Terms, a “sweetly sexy, gloriously relatable sapphic rom-com.” Spalding will be joined in conversation by local author Gabe Montesanti, and a signing line will follow the event. March 1. The Neighborhood at Novel Neighbor, 7905 Big Bend.
Bach at the Bistro. Photography by Klings & Things Photography.
St. Louis spring and summer arts guide
Concerts, performances, art, and more to fill your calendar
Our annual spring and summer arts guide is back to highlight some of the most exciting exhibitions, concerts, performances, and other events of the next five months. In addition to the listings for each month, be sure to check out our highlights on big birthdays for the Regional Arts Commission and Opera Theatre of St. Louis, as well as a “Roaring” new exhibit at the Saint Louis Art Museum.