Opening Reception | Friday, September 11 | 4-5:30pm

Light refreshments served. Beer, wine and soda available for purchase. Free and open to the public.

Collage Class | Friday, September 11 | 6-8pm | Click here to register

Nate Stromberg’s work explores how everyday objects and images become carriers of memory, identity, and cultural meaning. Whether drawn from archival photographs or contemporary life, his subjects reflect the visual language through which we understand ourselves and our shared history. Familiar forms—cars, household objects, fashion, and architecture—become touchstones that connect personal experience with broader cultural narratives. “I am interested in how ordinary things gain significance over time. Today's commonplace objects become tomorrow's artifacts, revealing the values, aspirations, and contradictions of the culture that created them. By reconfiguring photographic and paper scrap source material into realistic collage, I slow the act of looking and invite viewers to reconsider images that might otherwise be overlooked. My work asks how objects and images shape our understanding of the past, our experience of the present, and the stories we leave behind. In giving familiar imagery a new context, I explore the evolving nature of American identity and the ways visual culture continues to define who we are.”

Friday, September 11th from 6pm - 8pm

Geared towards ages 16 - adult

Instructor: Nate Stromberg

Location: Second Floor Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Learn the basics of collage-style painting in this hands-on class. Participants will begin by drawing or tracing an image onto watercolor paper before exploring magazines to find colors, patterns, and textures to recreate their design using paper fragments. The pieces will be adhered with glue and sealed with acrylic medium to create a finished artwork.

Along the way, Nate will share helpful techniques and creative tips while encouraging experimentation with color, texture, and composition. This fun and engaging class offers a relaxed environment where participants can explore their creativity and become immersed in the art-making process.

Saturday, September 12th from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor:Tressie Kinney

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Clay Cavern at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will learn the basics of working with polymer clay as they create insects by following step-by-step instruction from the instructor. This class introduces basic sculpting, shaping, and texturing techniques.

Minnesota hip-hop sensation Nur-D delivers an electrifying blend of rap, funk, pop, and ‘80s glam-rock energy. Known for his high-energy performances, sharp lyricism, and uplifting message, Nur-D has shared stages with artists like Ludacris, Tyler The Creator, and the Minnesota Orchestra. With infectious charisma and music that celebrates individuality, Nur-D is quickly becoming one of the Midwest’s most exciting rising stars.

Sponsored by Austin, MN PRIDE, Converse Candids Photography LLC, & Austin Human Rights Commission

This event runsfor approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes including intermission.

Cross the Bridge from Audience to Performer!

Join us for a unique music event that builds a bridge for talented music lovers to step on stage and become performing musicians. The Austin ArtWorks Center gallery hosts a house band and wine/beer bar. Come enjoy the music or plan to sing your own song. Free and open to the public.

Performers will each be allowed to present ONE song (opportunity for additional songs if time allows). Sign up in advance or take advantage of a limited number of ‘walk up’ spots each month.

Saturday, September 19th from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor: Sylvia Hernandez

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Upstairs Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will create an acrylic painting on canvas by following step-by-step instruction from the instructor. This class introduces basic painting techniques while encouraging creativity and confidence. Dressing in clothes that can get paint on them is recommended.

Saturday, September 19th from 1pm - 3:30pm

Geared towards ages 18+

Instructor: Spencer Johannes

Location: Clay Cavern at the Austin ArtWorks Center

PROJECT ALCC: TWO YEARS OF LASERS, CLAY & CURIOSITY

The Talk — From Curiosity to Research

1:00pm–2:00pm · Free

It all started with a slate coaster. Its texture reminded me of the carving I use in my own ceramic work, and I started to wonder: could a laser engraver recreate that on clay, or make something entirely new? That one question turned into a two-year journey of testing, experimenting, and learning. In this talk, I'll share where it took me, where my design and ceramic backgrounds finally came together, and the wins and failures that taught me the most along the way. Come see how a laser and a lump of clay can push traditional craft somewhere it's never been. No pottery experience needed, just curiosity. Laser-engraved coasters will be for sale, with proceeds supporting community art supplies at Austin Area Arts.

The Hands-On Class — Paint Your Own Laser-Engraved Tile (registration required)

2:00pm–3:30pm · $5

In this hands-on session, you'll decorate your own pre-engraved ceramic tile and take home a finished piece. You'll learn how to fill the engraved lines with underglaze to create a striking inlay effect, the same technique used in the research, minus the laser. Think of it like a coloring book on a ceramic tile, relaxing, approachable, and open to all ages and skill levels. No experience is required, and guidance is provided every step of the way. Once complete, your tile will be fired and returned to you as a one-of-a-kind piece you decorated yourself.

Tuesday, September 22nd from 6pm - 7:30pm

Geared towards ages 21+

Instructor: Katie Stromlund

Location: Second Floor Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Vibrant falling leaves, illustratively simple, with a bold punch of color. Katie Stromlund will walk you through painting a pair of leaves - two 12x12” canvases that can be adjusted to match any decor. Bring a friend, we will have a blast!

Saturday, September 26th from 10am - 3pm & Saturday, October 3rd from 10am - 12pm

Geared towards ages 18+

Instructor: Spencer Johannes

Location: Clay Cavern at the Austin ArtWorks Center

This crash course is designed to teach you the core foundational skills of the pottery wheel. Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate, this class will allow you both the time and instruction to learn and improve upon your wheel throwing skills. Starting with basics, centering, opening through raising walls, and creating volume, you’ll move into learning shaping and fundamentals of form.

The first class on September 26th, students will be throwing on the wheel all day. The pieces will be bisque fired, then the second class on October 3rd, students will be glazing for the duration of the class. Pieces will be glaze fired and ready to be picked up approximately one week later. Students will be notified via email when pieces are ready to be picked up.

Saturday, September 26th from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor: Sylvia Hernandez

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Upstairs Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will create an acrylic painting on canvas by following step-by-step instruction from the instructor. This class introduces basic painting techniques while encouraging creativity and confidence. Dressing in clothes that can get paint on them is recommended.

Appealing to the inner-teenager in each of us, the story, and more importantly the dialogue, makes “Napoleon Dynamite” one of the most quoted movies of our time. Napoleon Dynamite makes us laugh—and laugh hard—over and over again.

This unique evening includes a full screening of "Napoleon Dynamite" followed by a lively, freewheeling, interactive experience, with fan-favorite cast members: Jon Heder (Napoleon Dynamite), Jon Gries (Uncle Rico) and Efren Ramirez (Pedro).The live show—perfect for the whole family—is a wild and hysterical blend of Q&A, comedy improv, game show, and party, with plenty of audience participation. Come join the fun and help celebrate this wonderful movie classic.

Sponsored by Aurora Web Solutions

Add-on: Limited VIP Meet & Greet tickets available to purchase as an add on to your night! Meet & Greet takes place at 5:30pm the evening of the event.

This event has an exclusive (limited quantities, reserved ticket) VIP Meet & Greet at 5:30pm, a screening of Napoleon Dynamite (2004) at 7:00pm, and a Q&A with Jon Heder, Jon Gries, and Efren Ramirez at 8:30pm.

Experience the King like never before. Anthony Shore's Elvis Tribute Show recreates the electric energy of the 1970's Las Vegas era with a massive 11 piece band, complete with soul-stirring strings and a powerhouse horn section. From chart-topping hits to rare fan favorites, this isn't just a tribute- it's a high-octane journey into the height of Rock 'n' Roll royalty.

This is a third-party hosted rental event held at the Historic Paramount Theatre.

Saturday, September 26th from 10am - 3pm & Saturday, October 3rd from 10am - 12pm

Geared towards ages 18+

Instructor: Spencer Johannes

Location: Clay Cavern at the Austin ArtWorks Center

This crash course is designed to teach you the core foundational skills of the pottery wheel. Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate, this class will allow you both the time and instruction to learn and improve upon your wheel throwing skills. Starting with basics, centering, opening through raising walls, and creating volume, you’ll move into learning shaping and fundamentals of form.

The first class on September 26th, students will be throwing on the wheel all day. The pieces will be bisque fired, then the second class on October 3rd, students will be glazing for the duration of the class. Pieces will be glaze fired and ready to be picked up approximately one week later. Students will be notified via email when pieces are ready to be picked up.

Saturday, October 3rd from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor: Sylvia Hernandez

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Upstairs Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will create an acrylic painting on canvas by following step-by-step instruction from the instructor. This class introduces basic painting techniques while encouraging creativity and confidence. Dressing in clothes that can get paint on them is recommended.

Saturday, October 3rd from 12:30pm - 2:30pm
Geared towards ages 14+
Instructor: Spencer Johannes
Location: Clay Cavern at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Learn the foundational skills of surface decorating and glazing in this hands-on workshop. Whether you're just starting out or already have some experience, you'll get the time and instruction to build your decorating skills. We'll start with the basics of clay stages and when to apply each material, then work with underglaze, wax resist, and white slip to see how each one interacts with glaze and changes the look of a finished piece. Every technique gets a live demo before you try it yourself on test tiles or your own work. Bring your own leather-hard or bisque pieces if you'd like to decorate them, and test tiles will be provided so you can experiment freely. All skill levels welcome.

In an oppressive future, a fireman whose duty is to destroy all books begins to question his task. Not Rated

In partnership with The Next Chapter, Inc. Free book giveaway after the movie! You will still need to reserve a $0 ticket for entry either online or at our box office.

In an oppressive future, a fireman whose duty is to destroy all books begins to question his task. Not Rated

In partnership with The Next Chapter, Inc. Free book giveaway after the movie! You will still need to reserve a $0 ticket for entry either online or at our box office.

Tuesday, October 6th from 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Geared towards ages 18+

Instructor: Barbara Mitchell

Location: Second Floor Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

In this hands-on class we will re-purpose beads, chains, charms and other jewelry pieces to create a one-of-a-kind three dimensional piece of art. Class cost includes: 5x7 Frame, chains, beads, charms and other jewelry pieces. Feel free to bring jewelry pieces of your own if you'd like to create a more personalized design.

Friday, October 9th from 6pm - 8pm
Saturday, October 10th from 9am - 5pm
Sunday, October 11th from 10am - 3pm
Geared towards ages 18+
Instructor: Deb D’Souza
Location: Second Floor Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

In this weekend workshop, we will be creating with Smalti - the beautiful Italian glass that has been used in mosaics for centuries. You will learn about different types of smalti, how they are made, and how to cut them with both nippers and hammer and hardie. Instruction includes how to use thin set mortar as a setting medium and how to translate an image with glass for a painterly effect. We will cover basic setting styles, both ancient and modern. Choose a simple design from my collection, or send me an image that you would be interested in creating (remember to keep it simple). You will leave class with a colorful 8” x 8” Smalti mosaic, ready to hang. Use of tools, substrates and materials are included. No art or mosaic experience necessary.

Friday, October 9th from 6pm - 8pm
Saturday, October 10th from 9am - 5pm
Sunday, October 11th from 10am - 3pm
Geared towards ages 18+
Instructor: Deb D’Souza
Location: Second Floor Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

In this weekend workshop, we will be creating with Smalti - the beautiful Italian glass that has been used in mosaics for centuries. You will learn about different types of smalti, how they are made, and how to cut them with both nippers and hammer and hardie. Instruction includes how to use thin set mortar as a setting medium and how to translate an image with glass for a painterly effect. We will cover basic setting styles, both ancient and modern. Choose a simple design from my collection, or send me an image that you would be interested in creating (remember to keep it simple). You will leave class with a colorful 8” x 8” Smalti mosaic, ready to hang. Use of tools, substrates and materials are included. No art or mosaic experience necessary.

Saturday, October 10th from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor: Sylvia Hernandez

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Clay Cavern at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will create a colorful artwork using oil pastels while following step-by-step instruction from the instructor. This class introduces basic blending, layering, and drawing techniques. Please wear clothing that can get messy.

Con artists plan to fleece an eccentric family using an accomplice who claims to be their long-lost uncle. PG-13

To avoid the $2 per ticket online convenience fee, visit our in-person box offices! Austin ArtWorks Center Tue-Fri 10am-5pm & Sat 10am-3pm | Day-of box office at the Paramount Theatre opens 1 hour prior to the movie.

Con artists plan to fleece an eccentric family using an accomplice who claims to be their long-lost uncle. PG-13

To avoid the $2 per ticket online convenience fee, visit our in-person box offices! Austin ArtWorks Center Tue-Fri 10am-5pm & Sat 10am-3pm | Day-of box office at the Paramount Theatre opens 1 hour prior to the movie.

Friday, October 9th from 6pm - 8pm
Saturday, October 10th from 9am - 5pm
Sunday, October 11th from 10am - 3pm
Geared towards ages 18+
Instructor: Deb D’Souza
Location: Second Floor Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

In this weekend workshop, we will be creating with Smalti - the beautiful Italian glass that has been used in mosaics for centuries. You will learn about different types of smalti, how they are made, and how to cut them with both nippers and hammer and hardie. Instruction includes how to use thin set mortar as a setting medium and how to translate an image with glass for a painterly effect. We will cover basic setting styles, both ancient and modern. Choose a simple design from my collection, or send me an image that you would be interested in creating (remember to keep it simple). You will leave class with a colorful 8” x 8” Smalti mosaic, ready to hang. Use of tools, substrates and materials are included. No art or mosaic experience necessary.

Cross the Bridge from Audience to Performer!

Join us for a unique music event that builds a bridge for talented music lovers to step on stage and become performing musicians. The Austin ArtWorks Center gallery hosts a house band and wine/beer bar. Come enjoy the music or plan to sing your own song. Free and open to the public.

Performers will each be allowed to present ONE song (opportunity for additional songs if time allows). Sign up in advance or take advantage of a limited number of ‘walk up’ spots each month.

Friday, October 16th from 1pm - 5pm
Geared towards ages 14+
Instructor: Deb D’Souza
Location: Second Floor Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

We start by making a decorative sheet out of various colored glass, approximately 6" - 8". Then your glass creations will be fused and draped over a mold to create a beautiful glass votive candle holder. All tools and glass provided. Votives/vases will be fired and available for pick up the week following the class. Come join the fun! Space is limited, so register early!

Saturday, October 17th from 10am - 3pm & Saturday, October 24th from 10am - 12pm
Geared towards ages 18+
Instructor: Spencer Johannes
Location: Clay Cavern at the Austin ArtWorks Center

This crash course is designed to teach you the core foundational skills of the pottery wheel. Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate, this class will allow you both the time and instruction to learn and improve upon your wheel throwing skills. Starting with basics, centering, opening through raising walls, and creating volume, you’ll move into learning shaping and fundamentals of form.

The first class on October 17th, students will be throwing on the wheel all day. The pieces will be bisque fired, then the second class on October 24th, students will be glazing for the duration of the class. Pieces will be glaze fired and ready to be picked up approximately one week later. Students will be notified via email when pieces are ready to be picked up.

Saturday, October 17th from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor: Sylvia Hernandez

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Upstairs Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will create an acrylic painting on canvas by following step-by-step instruction from the instructor. This class introduces basic painting techniques while encouraging creativity and confidence. Dressing in clothes that can get paint on them is recommended.

Tuesday, October 20th - Thursday, October 22nd from 4pm - 6pm each day
Geared towards ages 16+
Instructor: Rhonda Baldner
Location: Second Floor Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Discover the versatility of gouache painting in this four-session class series. Gouache is an opaque, water-based paint that combines the blendability of watercolor with the vibrant, matte finish of acrylics. Unlike acrylic paint, gouache can be reactivated with water after it dries, making it easy to layer, blend, and make adjustments as you work.
Throughout this series, students will learn the fundamentals of painting with gouache, including color mixing, layering, blending, brush techniques, and creating depth and texture. After practicing essential techniques, students will apply their skills through guided painting projects while gaining confidence to experiment with their own creative ideas.
This class meets on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday one week in October. All supplies are included, and each student will receive their own pan of gouache paints to take home at the end of the series.

Tuesday, October 20th - Thursday, October 22nd from 4pm - 6pm each day
Geared towards ages 16+
Instructor: Rhonda Baldner
Location: Second Floor Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Discover the versatility of gouache painting in this four-session class series. Gouache is an opaque, water-based paint that combines the blendability of watercolor with the vibrant, matte finish of acrylics. Unlike acrylic paint, gouache can be reactivated with water after it dries, making it easy to layer, blend, and make adjustments as you work.
Throughout this series, students will learn the fundamentals of painting with gouache, including color mixing, layering, blending, brush techniques, and creating depth and texture. After practicing essential techniques, students will apply their skills through guided painting projects while gaining confidence to experiment with their own creative ideas.
This class meets on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday one week in October. All supplies are included, and each student will receive their own pan of gouache paints to take home at the end of the series.

Saturday, October 17th from 10am - 3pm & Saturday, October 24th from 10am - 12pm
Geared towards ages 18+
Instructor: Spencer Johannes
Location: Clay Cavern at the Austin ArtWorks Center

This crash course is designed to teach you the core foundational skills of the pottery wheel. Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate, this class will allow you both the time and instruction to learn and improve upon your wheel throwing skills. Starting with basics, centering, opening through raising walls, and creating volume, you’ll move into learning shaping and fundamentals of form.

The first class on October 17th, students will be throwing on the wheel all day. The pieces will be bisque fired, then the second class on October 24th, students will be glazing for the duration of the class. Pieces will be glaze fired and ready to be picked up approximately one week later. Students will be notified via email when pieces are ready to be picked up.

Saturday, October 24th from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor:Tressie Kinney

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Second Floor Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will learn the basics of working with polymer clay as they create haunted houses by following step-by-step instruction from the instructor. This class introduces basic sculpting, shaping, and texturing techniques.

Saturday, October 24th from 12:30pm - 2:30pm

Geared towards ages 18+

Instructor: Spencer Johannes

Location: Clay Cavern at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Get comfortable making and attaching handles in this hands-on workshop. Whether you're a beginner or somewhere in the middle, you'll have the time to learn several handle-making methods and figure out which ones work for your hands. We'll cover what makes a handle work and how it should fit a pot, then move into pulling, building, and attaching, with a focus on getting a strong join that won't crack off. You'll watch demos of each method, then practice them yourself. Bring your own leather-hard piece that is ready for handles. A small number of practice pieces will be provided for trying out the methods, but no work will be fired unless you bring your own. All skill levels and abilities are welcome.

Experience the internationally acclaimed Ragamala Dance Company, whose breathtaking choreography preserves and invigorates the South Indian classical dance form of Bharatanatyam. Through precise, geometric movements, expressive facial expressions, rhythmic footwork, and kinetic storytelling, Ragamala’s work - created by Artistic Directors Ranee Ramaswamy and Aparna Ramaswamy - is both a cultural inheritance and a contemporary force that reveals the timelessness and transcendence of the human experience. 

“soulful, imaginative, and rhythmically contagious” — The New York Times

Ragamala’s 2025-26 Minnesota tours are supported in part by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

Thursday, October 29th from 6pm - 8pm
Geared towards ages 16+
Instructor: Lisa Ganser
Location: Second Floor Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Join us for this spooky edition of our oddities class, with coffins, skulls, and spiderwebs.. more details coming soon!

Nate Stromberg’s work explores how everyday objects and images become carriers of memory, identity, and cultural meaning. Whether drawn from archival photographs or contemporary life, his subjects reflect the visual language through which we understand ourselves and our shared history. Familiar forms—cars, household objects, fashion, and architecture—become touchstones that connect personal experience with broader cultural narratives. “I am interested in how ordinary things gain significance over time. Today's commonplace objects become tomorrow's artifacts, revealing the values, aspirations, and contradictions of the culture that created them. By reconfiguring photographic and paper scrap source material into realistic collage, I slow the act of looking and invite viewers to reconsider images that might otherwise be overlooked. My work asks how objects and images shape our understanding of the past, our experience of the present, and the stories we leave behind. In giving familiar imagery a new context, I explore the evolving nature of American identity and the ways visual culture continues to define who we are.”

After a therapist's patient disappears into a dimension beyond reality, she must venture into the unknown to save him. R

To avoid the $2 per ticket online convenience fee, visit our in-person box offices! Austin ArtWorks Center Tue-Fri 10am-5pm & Sat 10am-3pm | Day-of box office at the Paramount Theatre opens 1 hour prior to the movie.

After a therapist's patient disappears into a dimension beyond reality, she must venture into the unknown to save him. R

To avoid the $2 per ticket online convenience fee, visit our in-person box offices! Austin ArtWorks Center Tue-Fri 10am-5pm & Sat 10am-3pm | Day-of box office at the Paramount Theatre opens 1 hour prior to the movie.

The 22nd Row is a 7-piece band of seasoned musicians, impeccably recreating the timeless classics of Elton John, The shoe is hit-filled, authentic sounding celebration of Elton’s greatest songs that will have you clapping your hands and singing along, in not dancing in the aisles! Not just a show, but an EXPERIENCE.

This show will also feature a local opening band Scott Jasmin and the Gracenotes. The Gracenotes' lineup includes Scott Jasmin on lead vocals and acoustic guitar, Scott Anderson on bass guitar, Albert Svenddal on pedal steel guitar and guiro, and Brady Kacon on drums and percussion. Honest, soulful Americana.

Sponsored by Brianne & Nick Erickson

Saturday, November 14th from 10:30am - 12pm

Instructor: Sylvia Hernandez

Geared towards ages 5-10

Location: Clay Cavern at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Students will create an acrylic painting on canvas by following step-by-step instruction from the instructor. This class introduces basic painting techniques while encouraging creativity and confidence. Dressing in clothes that can get paint on them is recommended.

Four siblings wind up entering the magical land of Narnia. Once there, they discover a world inhabited by fantastical creatures and find themselves in a battle to defeat a witch. PG

In partnership with The Next Chapter, Inc. Free book giveaway after the movie! You will still need to reserve a $0 ticket for entry either online or at our box office.

Four siblings wind up entering the magical land of Narnia. Once there, they discover a world inhabited by fantastical creatures and find themselves in a battle to defeat a witch. PG

In partnership with The Next Chapter, Inc. Free book giveaway after the movie! You will still need to reserve a $0 ticket for entry either online or at our box office.

Kick off this holiday season with a celebration of creativity and community!

We invite you to explore our vibrant downtown, where local shops are hosting local artists. Grab a map at any participating store and embark on a journey through art and commerce.

Whether you're a devoted art enthusiast or simply in search of unique holiday gifts, this event promises an evening filled with inspiration and delight.

Support our community, and enjoy a night of festive fun for everyone!

End the night with the Vienna Boys Choir at the Historic Paramount Theatre!

Founded in 1498, the world-renowned Vienna Boys Choir is a group of child musicians that has been delighting music lovers across the globe for six centuries with their purity of tone, distinctive charm and diverse repertoire which includes everything from medieval to contemporary to experimental music. These gifted musicians with voices of unforgettable beauty are part of four touring choirs that hail from dozens of nations and together give over 300 concerts a year around the world. The Fort Worth Star Telegram raves “There’s no more gratifying sound than that of children singing. And there’s no more polished ensemble of children’s voices than the Vienna Boys Choir.”

Sponsored by Belita Schindler & Sandy Bremer

This event runs for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes including intermission.

Photo credit: Lukas Beck

Saturday, December 5th from 10am - 4pm
Geared towards ages 14+
Instructor: Debra D’Souza
Location: Second Floor Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

In this one-day glass fusing class, students will design and create four glass ornaments. Perfect for your holiday gift giving or to keep for your tree or hang in a window. Debra will guide you through the process as you explore the art of fused glass. Sample ornaments will be fired and ready to pick up a week after class. We will cover basic glass cutting skills and fusing techniques. Use of tools, glass and all materials are included. No glass art experience necessary.

This concert is open to the public and free to attend – audience participation encouraged! Wear festive clothing and warm up your singing voices. Patrons must reserve a $0 ticket for entry into the event with the option to donate online or in person to help support the event.

If you play the tuba, sousaphone, euphonium or bass tuba – get ready to start the holidays off with this fun concert! All ages and all levels of experience invited. Registration begins at 8:30am ($15 per player to the Tuba Foundation), with rehearsal to follow.

Player Registration 8:30am
Rehearsal 9am
Free Community Concert begins at 11am

Tuesday, December 8th from 1pm - 3pm

Geared towards ages 14+

Instructor: Deb D’Souza

Location: Clay Cavern at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Come spend an afternoon experimenting with fused glass. We supply everything you will need for cutting, shaping and assembling 4”x4” fused glass works. Space is limited, registering ahead of time is recommended.

Class time will be spent cutting and assembling your fused glass piece. Pieces will stay at the ArtWorks Center to be fired and will be ready for pick up approximately two weeks after the class. Students will be notified via email when pieces are ready to be picked up.

Saturday, December 12th from 1pm - 3pm
Geared towards ages 16+
Instructor: Caroline Porter
Location: Second Floor Gallery at the Austin ArtWorks Center

Bring in the Holiday Cheer with hand painted ornaments! In this class, you’ll get to paint 3 Holiday inspired ornaments on wood rounds. With instructions from Minnesota artist Caroline Porter, students will be shown all three designs: Happy Holly-Days, Holiday Truck and Tree, and Simple Snowflake. Students can choose which designs to use for their 3 wood rounds. Each ornament will be tied with twine.
Instructor will provide all necessary materials for this class, however, if you would like to use your own materials (i.e. brushes, paints, etc.) students are more than welcome to bring their own.

Enjoy student dancers of all ages performing this classic holiday tale. Patrons are required to reserve a $0 ticket for this event but have the option to donate online or in person to help cover the costs of putting on the event.

Cross the Bridge from Audience to Performer!

Join us for a unique music event that builds a bridge for talented music lovers to step on stage and become performing musicians. The Austin ArtWorks Center gallery hosts a house band and wine/beer bar. Come enjoy the music or plan to sing your own song. Free and open to the public.

Performers will each be allowed to present ONE song (opportunity for additional songs if time allows). Sign up in advance or take advantage of a limited number of ‘walk up’ spots each month.

Dazzling and delighting audiences across the world, The Moanin' Frogs feature six saxophones from sopranino to bass in an amphibious blend of jazz, classical, pop, a cappella singing, and comedy. From the blazing virtuosity of their classical training to the madcap stage antics of their vaudeville roots, listeners will experience a new and exciting take on chamber music. Expect to hear many of your favorite holiday classics and more!

This event runs for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes including intermission.

The Griswold family's plans for a big family Christmas predictably turn into a big disaster. PG-13

To avoid the $2 per ticket online convenience fee, visit our in-person box offices! Austin ArtWorks Center Tue-Fri 10am-5pm & Sat 10am-3pm | Day-of box office at the Paramount Theatre opens 1 hour prior to the movie.

The Griswold family's plans for a big family Christmas predictably turn into a big disaster. PG-13

To avoid the $2 per ticket online convenience fee, visit our in-person box offices! Austin ArtWorks Center Tue-Fri 10am-5pm & Sat 10am-3pm | Day-of box office at the Paramount Theatre opens 1 hour prior to the movie.

When a man inadvertently makes Santa fall off his roof on Christmas Eve, he finds himself magically recruited to take his place. PG

Sponsored by Belita Schindler. Belita is generously covering the cost of all tickets and non-alcoholic concessions for this event. You will still need to reserve a $0 ticket for entry either online or at our box office.

When a man inadvertently makes Santa fall off his roof on Christmas Eve, he finds himself magically recruited to take his place. PG

Sponsored by Belita Schindler. Belita is generously covering the cost of all tickets and non-alcoholic concessions for this event. You will still need to reserve a $0 ticket for entry either online or at our box office.

With a total running time of 55 minutes, “TRUTH” is an immersive, scripted live production that creatively merges live narration, captivating live musical performances (by JazzReach’s acclaimed resident ensemble, Metta Quintet) and stunning video projections. Audiences of all ages will experience the vitality and dynamism of the live jazz experience with opportunities to learn about Coltrane’s legacy and prominent place in both American and world culture.

The program will be presented in four chapters:

1945-1955: Early Years: Youth, North Carolina and Philadelphia
1957-1962: In Pursuit of a Sound: Thelonious Monk and Miles Davis / The Prestige and Atlantic Records’ Years
1962-1965: Manifestation: The Quartet / Impulse Records Years
1966-1967: Searching for the Next: Meditations and Explorations in the Avant Garde

Bursting from the US Midwest, BIG GRAVITY captures earthy tones of long ago Japan, exploding with a planetary new world coming to life.

Training eleven hours a day for seven years in the Japanese Alps, founder Megan Chao Smith earned the reputation and nickname "GREAT POWER” in Japan. Their new Minnesota-based troupe, BIG GRAVITY, brings the soul of the Japanese mountain to the stage, transporting audiences to sacred other worlds. Fellow Minnesotan taiko stars, including rising star Emily Harada of Tokyo beginnings, ignite the stage with new masterful stick work, ushering audiences away with soulful harmonies of shinobue bamboo flutes.

Taiko is the Japanese word for drum and refers to the modern style of playing these drums. Wadaiko (in Japan) and kumi daiko (in North America) is movement infused, heart-pounding, dynamic group drumming. Think of it as a high energy performance art that combines music, dance, martial arts, athletics, and culture.

Come celebrate the Lunar New Year as we kick off the year of the goat!

This event runs for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes including intermission.

The Austin Symphony presents a Chamber Concert featuring the music of the great masters of the orchestral repertoire. A wine and cheese tasting will also be offered as a thank you to those who have donated to the orchestra.

Tired Souls opens in Montgomery, Alabama on December 1, 1955 – the day Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a city bus to a white man. Her determination was the catalyst that inspired Montgomery’s black citizens to abandon all travel on city buses until they were no longer forced to sit in the back or stand when a white person boarded. But there were others who came before Mrs. Parks and laid the groundwork for this pivotal moment. Tired Souls introduces audiences to Jo Ann Robinson, Claudette Colvin and others so instrumental in lighting a fire under the Civil Rights movement and changing the course of U.S. history forever.

Clay Fulton & the Lost 40 are a dynamic roots rock band hailing from Rochester, MN. With a blend of gritty Americana, folk-infused melodies, and raw, heartfelt lyrics, they capture the ups and downs of life, love and loss through genuine storytelling with hope for things to come. Their sound is a fusion of influences spanning generations, echoing the timeless spirit of classic rock, and the clever wit and vulnerability in Fulton's lyrics and songwriting reminiscent of the Old Town school of folk music. From foot-stomping anthems to introspective ballads, The Lost 40 deliver an authentic music experience that resonates with audiences of all ages, and keep you coming back for more.

Since its inception in 2021, the Lost 40 have performed throughout the Midwest and abroad at major festivals like SXSW, Lumberjack Days, Caravan Du Nord, Mid West Music Fest, and shared bills with The Suburbs, Your Smith, Charlie Parr, The Big Wu, Nur-D, and more.

Hailing from Austin, Minnesota, Manic Culture is an alternative rock band creating gritty, atmospheric music rooted in honesty and emotional depth. Their sound blends driving guitars and moody textures with lyrics that confront the realities of addiction, mental illness, and the complicated question of what it means to be human.

Rather than turning away from life’s darker moments, Manic Culture leans into them—transforming struggle into connection. Their debut single, “Obey,” offers a first glimpse into a sound that is both raw and immersive, with more music on the way as the band works toward releasing their first EP.

At its core, Manic Culture exists to build connection. Through vulnerable storytelling and powerful sound, the band hopes to reach listeners on a human level and leave them with a sense of peace in the chaos.

Ticket prices shown are for advance sales. Price will increase by $5 on Saturday March 27th.

This show was rescheduled from an April 2026 postponement. If you previously purchased tickets to this event, they will be valid for the new date. Please reach out to amy@austinareaarts.org for questions regarding this.

Theatre 55 is proud to present La Cage Aux Folles! Set against the glittering backdrop of the French Riviera, this heartwarming farce explores themes of family, love, and the importance of staying true to yourself.

The score features iconic show tunes, including "The Best of Times" and the legendary anthem of self-acceptance, "I Am What I Am." You may remember the movie version, The Birdcage, starring Robin Williams and Nathan Lane. The show follows a Saint-Tropez drag club manager and his star performer whose lives are upended when their son announces his engagement to the daughter of an ultra-conservative politician.

THEATRE 55—ENRICHING THE LIVES OF ELDERS AS ARTISTS, AUDIENCES, AND LIFELONG LEARNERS

This event runs for approximately 2 hours including intermission.

A fast-paced, high energy circus show for all ages, showcasing incredible feats of juggling, hula hoops, unicycle, aerial, circus stunts, contortion, magic and audience interaction all wrapped up in a blanket of comedy. Simply put: the most unique 2-person circus show you will ever see! Featured in Hugh Jackman’s hit movie, The Greatest Showman (2017), The Great DuBois have amassed an impressive list of credits, including the Tony Award winning “Pippin” on Broadway, “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno”, “Late Night with David Letterman”, Britney Spears World Circus Tour, and the movie “Burlesque” to highlight just a few. The award-winning combination of Michael DuBois and Viktoria Grimmy have five generations of circus performing between them, a spectacular theatrical set for proscenium stages, and have performed countless shows at theatres, universities, cruise ships, fairs and festivals all over the world.

This event runs for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes including intermission.

Pack your bags, we’re going to take you on a musical journey like no other with TAKE3. This unique trio of violin, cello, and piano brings together the power and energy of rock music with the sophistication and beauty of classical Bach. Experience a fusion of styles that will leave you breathless and wanting more. With their virtuosic performances and electrifying stage presence, TAKE3 is a must see that will thrill audiences of all ages.

Sponsored by Randy & Ann Bailey

This event runs for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes including intermission.

Based in Minnesota’s Twin Cities, The 7 Wonders of Rock is a high-energy 120-minute live production featuring iconic hits from Foreigner, Heart, Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeppelin, Journey, Queen, Styx, and more. The show delivers a fully immersive theatrical rock experience, combining multimedia production with standout vocal power—featuring three lead vocalists and seven singers total. Rich harmonies, layered arrangements, and memorable a cappella moments create a signature “wall of sound” audiences consistently remember.

This show will also feature a local opening musician Amanda Grace. Amanda is a Minnesota native singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, releasing music drifting between folk, alt- pop/rock and Americana. With roots as a pianist her writing is thematically varied with an emphasis on melody; with ballads wrapped in warm vocals.