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Athens ArtsMixed Media

Maybe its the natural beauty of Athens County that inspires artists of all kinds to create and perform. Or maybe its our rich history and varied experiences that cry out for expression. Whatever the muse, Athens Countys arts and theater scene is known throughout the region and often recognized nationally.

Performing Arts

The Ohio University Performing Arts Series brings artists from around the world to Athens 2,000-seat Memorial Auditorium. Each season is an eclectic mix: Broadway plays, ballets, musical revues, comedians and international childrens choirs. You never know whos coming to town!

Unleash your inner artist at “ARTS/West: Athens Community Gateway to the Arts” http://www.artswest.blogspot.com/, a performing arts facility open to all.

The Ohio University School of Theater offers world-premiere plays by Pulitzer Prize nominees who also happen to be faculty members. In the summer months, students and faculty team up with community members for Ohio Valley Summer Theater a regional entertainment gem since 1951.

Visual Art

The Dairy Barn Arts Center is an historic landmark and art gallery in one. Exhibits are always changing, but the two staples are Quilt National and Bead International. The building itself dates back to 1914; with its slate roof and three cupolas that recall the days when it actually was a working dairy barn.

If one image captures the spirit of Athens County, it is our native Passion Flower, produced only by the Passion Works Studio. Inspiring and liberating the human spirit through the arts, Passion Works is a studio for artists with and without developmental disabilities.

Tucked inside the former Athens Psychiatric Facility, a gothic behemoth overlooking the Hocking River, youll find the Kennedy Museum of Art with revolving exhibits that bring the world to Southeast Ohio. But for regional flair, visit and shop Art of Ohio.

Music

Athens County is for music lovers. Wander into any restaurant, bar or coffeehouse on Court Street and youre likely to find music being made jazz, folk, bluegrass, rock, R&B or any combination thereof.

But if you need venues devoted to full-time live music, weve got those too. The Ohio University School of Music hosts about 200 concerts in any given year many of them free.

Or try these quintessential Athens experiences

In the late 1800s, Stuarts Opera House was a hot spot on the Vaudeville circuit. Now, it attracts musicians who thrive on playing live, from Richie Havens to Arcade Fire. And theres not a bad seat in the house.

Where do rock legends settle down to build a home and a legacy? Jorma Kaukonen, lead guitarist for Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna, chose Southeast Ohio. His Fur Peace Ranch doesnt raise livestock; it raises world-class guitarists. Whether you stay for a week or just a concert, lots of pickin and grinnin are guaranteed.

All of the Above

Dont know where to start? Athens Countys art scene is eclectic and expansive, but you can sample it all at Final Fridays in Nelsonvilles Historic Square Arts District on the last Friday of every month.

For a cybertaste of the Athens vibe, surf over to Soul of Athens. This is what multimedia was made for!

Athens’ Events (courtesy AthensOhio.com)

  • » Final Friday: Parade of Square-Crows
    September 24, 2010. DonÂ’t miss the Parade of Square~Crows on display outside the shops of the Historic Square Arts District. Vote for your favorite and you could win a prize!
  • » Richard Buckner Concert
    September 24, 2010. BACKSTAGE SHOW with Richard Buckner at Stuart's Opera House
  • » 5th Annual Wheels on Fire Skateboard Competition
    September 18, 2010. Athens, Ohio...we've got a long history in skateboarding. Check out this upcoming competition.
  • » 2010 Cruise-Ins
    May 28, 30-31, June 18, July 3, 16, 30, August 20, September 3, 18, October 1, 2010. 2010 Cruise-In Schedule - Trophies, dash plaques, 50-50, door prizes. DJ's: Jim, Lady J & Clyde
  • » Ohio Pawpaw Festival
    September 18-19, 2010. Join pawpaw fanatics from around the country at the peak of the season for a weekend filled with everything pawpaws from food, beer, music, art, history, trees, people and much more.

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