Wylie Caudill onstage during ActOut Theatre Group’s 2022 production of “The Normal Heart.” | Photo courtesy of Wylie Caudill
You know him as a talented visual artist, but have you ever seen Lexington’s most famous muralist onstage? That’s right, in addition to being an exceptional artist, Wylie Caudill is also a thespian. Later this month Caudill will appear in ActOut Theatre Group’s production of “Torch Song.”
“Torch Song” will run at the Central Library’s Farish Theatre. Tickets are available for all five performances from Friday, Feb. 28 to Sunday, March 9.
“The Normal Heart” depicts the HIV/AIDS crisis in 1980’s New York City. | Photo courtesy of Wylie Caudill
Written by gay activist and artist Harvey Fierstein, “Torch Song” is the story of Arnold Beckoff, a New York City drag queen. Set in the late 1970s and early 1980s, the play follows Arnold on his search for happiness.
Caudill plays Alan, Arnold’s charismatic lover. Their plans for domestic tranquility include adopting a child, but tragedy strikes before their life together can truly take shape.
Granddam Bourbon Tasting | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | The Manchester | $40 | Find your favorite bourbon as you explore the process, quality + taste profiles of Kentucky’s smoothest spirit.
Salsa Level 1 | 6:15-7:05 p.m. | The Salsa Center | $18+ | This introduction to the vibrant + dynamic dance style doesn’t require experience or a partner, just a sense of adventure.
Wednesday, Feb. 5
Valentine’s Centerpiece Workshop | 6:30-8 p.m. | Poppy’s Flower Bar | $100 | Unleash your flower power to create a seasonal centerpiece with a master florist — your ticket includes a drink + all the supplies you’ll need.
Women’s Circle | 5:00-6:30 p.m. | Lexington Salt Cave | Free | Build a community based on self-love, empowerment + inner balance during this monthly celebration of the feminine.
Thursday, Feb. 6
Trivia | 7:30-9:30 p.m. | Lost Palm | Price of purchase | Venture up to The Manchester’s rooftop bar + sip on a creative cocktail while you show off those trivia skills for a chance to win a $30 gift certificate.
Teen Howl Poetry Series | 5:30-7:00 p.m. | Third Street Stuff | Price of purchase | Kentucky literary giant George Ella Lyon headlines this evening for all ages.
It’s almost Super Bowl Sunday. If you’re not wearing your favorite team’s merch, shop five comfy tees + sweatshirts that say “I’m just here for the snacks” ... literally.
$2 billion. That’s the economic impact of Kentucky’s 18 independent + nonprofit colleges and universities. Transylvania University alone drove $66.3 million into the regional economy through attracting talent, creating jobs, and supporting local businesses. (The Lane Report)
Lexingtonian
Congratulations to UK professors and authors Crystal Wilkinson and Frank X. Walker for being inducted into the Kentucky Writer’s Hall of Fame. The ceremony celebrating the state’s literary legends will take place Monday, March 10 at the Kentucky Theatre. (UKNOW)
Edu
You might need to rethink your St. Patrick’s Day and Holi celebration plans — Fayette County Public Schools will hold a “winter weather make-up day” on Friday, March 14. Eliminating this three-day weekend will prevent the school year running beyond Wednesday, May 28. (LEX18)
Sports
This isn’t their first rodeo, but it could be yours. The UK Rodeo Team is seeking sponsors to help cover the cost of horse care, travel + team expenses. If that ropes your interestcontact the team to see how you can get involved.
Concert
One ticket to Margaritaville, please. The Black Jack Symphony is bringing the sunny stylings of Jimmy Buffett to the Lexington Opera House this May. Presale for “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes” begins Thursday, Feb. 6 at 10 a.m.
Drink
Elevate your game day experience by tuning in at Agave & Rye and sipping on the Margarita Package. Pair your favorite tacos with this combo featuring a bottle of tequila, a bottle of triple sec, two fresh limes, and a half-gallon of signature margarita mix.
Feel Good
Habitat for Humanity is celebrating completion of its 500th Lexington home by building two more. The housing nonprofit first came to Lexington in 1986, and its most recent achievement is home No. 502 off Harrison Trace. (WKYT)
Beauty
We’ll let you in on a secret… Glowing skin goals are within reach. Whether you’re new to skincare treatments or looking to try something different, the local pros at Golden Aesthetic Atelier recently broke down what you need to know before scheduling an appointment.*
Active
Spring is calling, and so are youth sports. Registration is now open for outdoor soccer + flag football at the YMCA. Practices and games kick off in March, welcoming both members and non-members. Get your young athletes ready for an exciting season — register to secure their spot.*
Number
3.5 million. That’s how many Americans subscribe to 1440 — a daily digest for unbiased national news on business, politics, culture, and more. Subscribe for free.*
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Live, laugh + love in LEX
The Kentucky Theatre is the perfect place for a star-studded evening. | Photo by @herdlani
Valentine’s Day is coming up soon. Whether you’re looking to spend quality time with that special someone or celebrate the love between you and your besties, we’ve got you covered.
💝 As you wish
Craft and Movie Time This lights-up, chatting permitted screening of romantic comedy classic “The Princess Bride” is perfect for people who like to go to the movies and get busy. Get busy crafting, that is. Bring your knitting, drawing, or any upholstery-safe craft for a one-of-a-kind movie experience. Tickets for this Saturday, Feb. 8 showing are $9.25.
💚 Something for everyone
Gals, Pals, and Val-entines Whether it’s a Guys Night Out or just the gals, Wise Bird Cider has something for anyone looking to avoid exclusive reservations + expensive menus this Valentine’s Day. Enjoy Cupid-themed cocktails, dinner specials from Little Fork, and a V-Day inspired vendors market.
The Buy
The Buy
Amazon’s No. 1 bestselling water bottle — the Owala FreeSip. It’s a top seller for good reason: Owala has perfected a spout design that allows you to either sip upright through a built-in straw or tilt back to swig a gulp. It’s actually patented.
With no professional football teams in the state, Kentuckians aren’t always sure who to cheer for in the Super Bowl. I went to graduate school near Philadelphia, so that makes me an Eagles fan. But I also enjoy barbecue, so I guess I’m rooting for Kansas City, too. Let me know who you’re rooting for and why.