Latest news with #SpoletoFestivalUSA
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Spoleto Festival USA's founding director of chamber music dies at 96
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – The founding artistic director of chamber music for Spoleto Festival USA has died at 96, according to festival organizers. Charles Wadsworth, born in rural Georgia in 1929, was a preeminent leader in the field of chamber music and helped expand the genre's populist appeal both at Spoleto and around the world. 'Presenting innovative programming and a stable of consummate soloists, he charmed audiences, encouraged generations of virtuoso musicians, and developed a concert format that propelled chamber music concerts and festivals worldwide,' the festival said in a news release Friday afternoon. Wadsworth served Spoleto Festival USA for 50 years until his retirement in 2009. He died Thursday in New York City. You can read more about his life and contributions to chamber music and the festival by clicking here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Spoleto Festival USA returns with opening ceremony
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – A two-week arts festival featuring performances, exhibitions and community celebrations officially kicked off Friday in Charleston. Spoleto Festival USA kicked off with an opening ceremony outside Charleston City Hall on Friday afternoon featuring guest speakers, performances, and The Bell Ringers of St. Michael's Church. The 17-day festival is held in Charleston each spring with performances from renowned artists and emerging performers in opera, theater, dance, and music. 'Spoleto produces and presents work of the highest artistic caliber to diverse and adventurous audiences. Through innovation, education, and a commitment to our community, we harness the power of the arts to foster a culture of belonging and deepen and engage the public's appreciation for the arts in building a better world,' the festival said on its website. For a full look at events, performances, and to purchase tickets online, visit Spoleto's website by clicking here. The event runs through June 8. Meanwhile, the city of Charleston also welcomes Piccolo Spoleto, a community-centered counterpart to the annual arts festival and features visual art exhibitions; classical, jazz, and choral music performances; dance and theater productions, film screenings, poetry readings, and children's programming. 'The festival celebrates both emerging and established talent, presenting professional work across a wide range of disciplines,' said Charleston city officials. The event includes a sunsets serenade with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra on Friday night, an outdoor art exhibition open daily in Marion Square, and artisan showcase at Mation Square – featuring live music – Sunday from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., and a Charleston Concert Band Memorial Day concert at Hampton Park on Monday, May 26 at 3 p.m. You can view the full Piccolo Spoleto schedule of events or purchase tickets by clicking here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.