April in Rowan County brings an exciting lineup of arts events, offering something for every art enthusiast. From gallery exhibitions to live performances, the month celebrates the vibrant artistic community and the diverse talents that make our region shine.
Waterworks Visual Arts Center Presents: "Never Before Seen...Modern Masterpieces"
Now - August 30, 2025
“Never Before Seen…Modern Masterpieces” includes forty works by twenty-eight leading European modernists, including such greats as Kandinsky, Monet, Picasso, and de Kooning. Spanning more than a century of art history, the exhibition will introduce viewers to several pivotal movements from French Impressionism to Abstract Expressionism.
Piedmont Players Presents: "The Wind in the Willows"
April 4 - 13, 2025
This hilarious comedy follows Mole, Rat, Badger, and the impulsive Mr. Toad whose insatiable need for speed lands him in jail! With his beloved Toad Manor under threat from the notorious Chief Weasel and his gang of sinister Wild Wooders, Toad must attempt a daring escape leading to a heroic battle to recapture Toad Hall. Full of humor, wit, and heartwarming lessons of friendship, The Wind in the Willows is the perfect fit for families with kids of any age!
Tupelo Honey - A Van Morrison Celebration at the Swanee Theatre
April 4, 2025
Tupelo Honey is a celebration of the music of the man with many names. They call him “Van The Man”, they call him “The Master”… He was one of the earliest inductees into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and has written some of the most iconic songs in popular music… He is Van Morrison. Join us for a fun night, celebrating the music of Van Morrison.
Strait Country at the Swanee Theatre
April 5, 2025
Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering George Strait's music for the first time, Strait Country Tribute performances transport audiences back to the heyday of traditional country music, delivering an energetic and nostalgic journey through George Strait's incredible discography. So, grab your cowboy hat, put on your dancing boots, and get ready to sing along to all your favorite George Strait hits with the one and only Howard Decker and his incredible band. Get ready for a night of pure country bliss that will make you feel like you're right there at a George Strait concert.
The Salisbury Symphony Presents: "Splinter"
April 13, 2024
This concert celebrates the explorative spirit of the Reed Quintet, showcasing its ability to blend harmoniously while also venturing into new, diverse sonic territories. This versatility not only refreshes familiar soundscapes but also paves the way for groundbreaking musical expressions. Each piece in this program is a step toward defining the unique capabilities and potential of the reeded instruments, aiming to establish these works as foundational to the ensemble's repertoire, much like ancient trees stand as pillars in a forest. Join us for an evening of fresh sounds and innovative music that seeks to carve out new paths in the world of chamber music.
On the Border-Eagles Tribute at the Swanee Theatre
April 11 & 12, 2025
Join us for On the Border - Eagles Tribute at the Swanee Theatre on April 11 & 12, 2025, for an unforgettable night of classic Eagles hits. Doors open at 7:00 PM, with the show beginning at 8:00 PM—this is an 18+ event!
If Picasso Painted the Easter Bunny at Waterworks Visual Arts Center
April 12, 2025
Hop into this class where young artists will create silly bunnies in the cubist-style of Pablo Picasso. Children will learn about the artist Picasso, as well as the art movement, Cubism. Cubism breaks down a picture or idea into pieces, angles, or cubes. Picasso co-invented the style of Cubism and once said, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist when we grow up.” Children will also enjoy making a spring silhouette creation and spin-art Easter eggs.
Lee Street Theatre Presents: "The 39 Steps"
April 18 - May 5, 2025
Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python and you have The 39 Steps, a fast-paced whodunit for anyone who loves the magic of theatre! This two-time Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning treat is packed with nonstop laughs, over 150 zany characters (played by a ridiculously talented cast of four), an onstage plane crash, handcuffs, missing fingers, and some good old-fashioned romance!
REO Survivor & Co. at the Swanee Theatre
April 18, 2025
Get ready for an unforgettable night with REO Survivor & Co. at the Swanee Theatre on April 18, 2025, as they tribute REO Speedwagon, Survivor, and Loverboy. Doors open at 7:00 PM, with the show starting at 8:00 PM—don’t miss out on this rockin’ experience!
Nirvani - Nirvana Tribute at the Swanee Theatre
April 25, 2025
For Nirvani, it's much more than simply being a tribute band. It's about paying homage to a golden era in music and the unique and raw atmosphere Nirvana contributed to that era. Nirvani embodies Cobain, Novoselic, and Grohl in their talent and authenticity. Each band member is dedicated to portraying both the appearance and playing styles of their Nirvana counterparts. This combined with their use of authentic vintage instruments makes Nirvani a live tribute concert experience that leaves audiences simultaneously satisfied and longing for more.
Piedmont Players Presents: "Murder on the Orient Express"
April 25 - May 4, 2025
Famous detective Hercule Poirot is called back from Istanbul to London on urgent business. He intends to secure a first-class compartment on the booked-out Orient Express, run by his former friend and colleague, Monsieur Bouc. While aboard, Poirot meets a host of peculiar characters including an angry businessman, Samuel Ratchett who corners him and demands he investigate a series of ominous letters, threatening Ratchett’s life. Ratchett is later found stabbed in his locked compartment, marking the start of a murder case that must be solved before the arrival time in 48 hours, while the killer is still in their midst! Will Poirot be able to solve the case of the Murder on the Orient Express? Come find out!
Arts in the Park in Granite Quarry, N.C.
April 26, 2025
Arts in the Park began in 2021 and was a huge hit! It is a half day event at our Granite Lake Park. There are many forms of art, and we hope to have representation of them all! This event is a venue for local students to display/show their art (painting, architecture, sculpture, literature, music, performing and cinema). There will be a children’s area to create a take home art piece as well as much more. This event will also be open to vendors/artisans selling handcrafted items. We will also offer attendees the opportunity to purchase food and drink from area vendors.
For more information about other events happening this April, be sure to check out our event calendar and April in Rowan County blog.
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