The air is crisp, the leaves are getting lovely, scenic hiking trails are beckoning—plus it’s apple season! Autumn is awesome for so many obvious reasons, but it also happens to be the perfect time to take advantage of Hudson Valley culture. Save the dates for these must-see concerts, dance performances, film festivals, art exhibits, comedy shows, and much more.
Art
Woven Together
Foley & Cox, Hudson
September 2–30
The late photographer Fernando Bengoechea’s unique style of woven photography—and his memory—are kept alive by his brother, Marcelo. A selection of his best photographs, produced as two identical prints woven together to create one image, will be available to view and purchase at Hudson design studio Foley & Cox. fernandobengoechea.com
“Abandon Places” and “Perfectly Imperfect”
Rockland Art Center, West Nyack
September 7–28
Rockland Art Center’s free-to-the-public exhibits include an interdisciplinary exploration of the meaning of home and a showcase of Korean-inspired ceramic work by RoCA students. rocklandartcenter.org
Purple Haze
Samuel Dorsky Museum, New Paltz
September 9–December 10
A curated collection of works by multigenerational artists, “Purple Haze: Art and Drugs Across the Americas” examines North America’s relationship with drug use and how it is presented in media. Featured artists include Antonio Caro, Zulema Damianovich, and Dash Snow. newpaltz.edu/museum
Grand Opening: The Robert Olnick Pavilion
Magazzino Italian Art, Cold Spring
Opens September 14
The museum’s new building will make its public debut with exhibitions by glass artist Carlo Scarpa, painter Mario Schifano, and sculptor/painter Ettore Spalleti. magazzino.art
Kengo Kito: Unity on the Hudson
Hudson River Museum, Yonkers
Through September 24
More than 2,100 bold, colorful hula hoops will take over the Hudson River Museum in this installation designed specifically for the gallery space by Japanese contemporary artist Kengo Kito. hrm.org
Silver Linings: Celebrating the Spelman Art Collection
Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center, Poughkeepsie
September 29–January 28
Spanning the 1800s to now, the Spelman College Museum of Fine Art’s collection celebrates sculptures, paintings, photographs, and more by and about women of the African diaspora—and 40 pieces are coming to Vassar College. vassar.edu/theloeb
Mary Heilmann
Dia, Beacon
Opens September 30
Heilmann’s “Starry Night” series is comprised of a group of unstretched canvases stained black and complemented by clay and bamboo objects coated in textured fiber. The pieces will be displayed in a way that creates a galaxy in the gallery space. diaart.org
Wu Chi-Tsung: Synchronicity
Katonah Museum, Katonah
Through October 1
A series of images made through photography and collage that reinterpret traditional Chinese Shan Shui (mountain-water) paintings will take over the project gallery. A video installation detailing the process will accompany Taiwanese artist Wu Chi-Tsung’s first solo exhibition. katonahmuseum.org
Sylvia Sleigh: Invitation to a Voyage
Hudson River Museum, Yonkers
Through October 15
Across 14 large-scale panels (70 feet in length), you’ll find late American artist Sylvia Sleigh’s panoramic depiction of friends and art-world figures gathering on the banks of the Hudson. hrm.org
Its Inside Is Bigger than its Outside
Hudson River Museum, Yonkers
Through October 15
South Korean artist Seongmin Ahn presents a series that blends Eastern and Western art styles. Her paintings depict mysterious open drawers bursting with peonies, plum trees, waterfalls, and butterflies onto the plain outside world. hrm.org
Terraforming: Olana’s Historic Photography Collection Unearthed
Olana State Historic Site, Hudson
Through October 29
A selection of photographs from Frederic Church’s collection of over 2,000 19th-century global prints tells the story of his painting practice and travels. olana.org
Women Reframe American Landscape
Thomas Cole National Historic Site, Catskill
Through October 29
A two-part exhibition that presents 19th-century American painter Susie Barstow as part of the Hudson River School alongside the work of other landscape artists. thomascole.org
Indian Theater: Native Performance, Art, and Self-Determination since 1969
Bard College’s Hessel Museum of Art, Annandale-on-Hudson
Through November 26
The first large-scale exhibition of its kind, this show emphasizes performance and theater’s roles in the development of contemporary art by native populations. Over 100 works and archival materials documenting 1969’s New Native Theater movement will be on display. ccs.bard.edu
Barrow Parke: Systems and Mythologies
University at Albany, Albany
Through December 4
The artistic duo of Mark Barrow and Sarah Parke explore visual systems and patterns through a range of textiles, paintings, and wallpapers. albany.edu/museum
Michael Snow: A Life Survey
The School Jack Shainman Gallery, Kinderhook
Through December 16
A retrospective of artist Michael Snow’s career, featuring works of multiple media and genres that emphasize Snow’s originality, artistic evolution, and cerebral thought. jackshainman.com
Dance
Lori Belilove & the Isadora Duncan Dance Company
Untermyer Gardens Amphitheater, Yonkers
September 3, 5 p.m.
Marvel at these world-renowned dancers as they perform in early 20th-century style programs set to classical music. The show will take place on Untermyer Gardens’ newly expanded amphitheater stage. untermyergardens.org
Kaatsbaan Fall Festival
Kaatsbaan Cultural Park, Tivoli
September 9–10, 22–24, 29–October 1
Immerse yourself in the world of dance for three weekends at this beloved annual event at Kaatsbaan. kaatsbaan.org
Hope Boykin Dance
Orpheum Performing Arts Center, Tannersville
September 16, 7:30 p.m.
A new production from the Hope Boykin Dance company, “…a STATE of love” explores the process of self-discovery through movement and sound. catskillmtn.org
Olivier Tarpaga Dance
Orpheum Performing Arts Center, Tannersville
September 23, 7:30 p.m.
In “Once the dust settles, flowers bloom,” Olivier Tarpaga Dance uses contemporary dance and music to examine conflicts between feminism and jihadism in the West African country of Burkina Faso. catskillmtn.org
Ballet Hispánico
Paramount Hudson Valley, Peekskill
October 20, 8 p.m.
The largest Latine/Latinx/Hispanic cultural organization in the U.S., Ballet Hispánico celebrates diversity through dance. This performance at the Paramount mixes their four major works: Línea Recta, New Sleep, Sor Juana, and Club Havana. paramounthudsonvalley.com
Cinderella
Ulster Performing Arts Center, Kingston
November 10, 7:30 p.m.
A full-scale dance production of the classic fairy tale by the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine comes to Ulster Performing Arts Center. bardavon.org
Film
Woodstock Film Festival
Woodstock
September 27–October 1
A week full of independent cinema made by both local and national directors. Screening locations are available online. woodstockfilmfestival.org
The Princess Bride: An Inconceivable Evening with Cary Elwes
Tarrytown Music Hall, Tarrytown
September 30
See the 1987 fantasy in a new light: this special screening will be followed by a moderated discussion with actor Cary Elwes about behind-the-scenes secrets and the making of the film. tarrytownmusichall.org
FilmColumbia
Crandell Theatre, Chatham
October 20–29
Ten days of features, documentaries, short films, and animations on Columbia County’s biggest movie screen. crandelltheatre.org
On the Big Screen: Nosferatu
The Bardavon, Poughkeepsie
October 28, 7:30 p.m.
Just in time for Halloween, catch the 1922 classic about the vampire Nosferatu, thought to be an unofficial adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, at the Bardavon. The silent film will be accompanied live by Juan Cardona Jr. on the organ. bardavon.org
Yelaine Rodriguez: EBBÓ
SUNY Albany, Albany
Through December 4
Meaning “sacrifice,” this short film follows a Cuban chamber opera playing among shoreline ruins in the Dominican Republic. Two dancers perform in elaborate costumes designed by artist Yelaine Rodriguez. albany.edu/museum
Music
The Dresden Dolls
The Colony, Woodstock
September 1–2
Led by drummer Brian Viglione and singer and pianist Amanda Palmer, this influential punk-cabaret group are back on the road after a long hiatus to perform dark songs that pull inspiration from other musical greats like The Doors, Black Sabbath, and Nina Simone. colonywoodstock.com
ZZ Top
The Capitol, Port Chester
September 6, 8 p.m.
Catch the iconic Texas rock band on their Raw Whisky Tour playing hits such as “La Grange,” “Sharp Dressed Man,” and “Rough Boy.” thecapitoltheatre.com
The Kingston Trio
Bearsville Theater, Woodstock
September 8, 8 p.m.
Hailing from San Francisco, The Kingston Trio have been playing folk music across the country since the ’50s. Hear them play guitar-centric songs such as “Tom Dooley,” “Reverend Mr. Black,” and “Desert Pete” on the Bearsville stage. bearsvilletheater.com
Meadowlark Fest
Stone Ridge Orchard, Stone Ridge
September 8–10
In its first year open to the public, this outdoor music festival on the grounds of Stone Ridge Orchard will feature sets by vocal quartet DeVotchKa, blues singer Chris Smither, rock duo Babehoven, and many more. A portion of proceeds will be donated to organizations that support local and national farmers, including Farm Aid and Rondout Valley Growers Association. meadowlarkfest.com
Ray LaMontagne
The Capitol, Port Chester
September 12, 7:30 p.m.
The revered songwriter and his trio perform a fan-requested set list that spans a catalog of eight full-length records; folk artist Tomberlin will kick off the night. thecapitoltheatre.com
Shake Rattle & Roll Pianos
City Winery Hudson Valley, Montgomery
September 14
Not just any piano performance, this unique show of dueling pianos covers popular hits of all genres, from Billy Joel to Britney Spears. citywinery.com
Grace Potter
The Egg, Albany
September 17, 7 p.m.
Inspired by a recent solo cross-country trip, artist Grace Potter’s new album “Mother Road” fuses genres like soul, blues, country, and rock throughout tracks that reflect self-exploration and personal growth. theegg.org
Ani DiFranco
Tarrytown Music Hall, Tarrytown
September 22
Grammy winner, feminist icon, and pioneer of the DIY movement, Ani DiFranco’s songs fuse genres like punk, folk, hip hop, and even electronica. tarrytownmusichall.org
Nexus: Farewell Concert
The Bardavon, Poughkeepsie
September 23, 8 p.m.
For 52 years, Nexus has been known as one of the most influential percussion groups. Hear their original compositions live for the final time at their Bardavon farewell concert. bardavon.org
Woodsist Festival
Arrowood Farms, Accord
September 23–24
This annual festival presents two days full of rock, folk, and indie music. Artists on the roster include Kevin Morby, Kurt Vile and the Violators, Woods, Anna St. Louis, and more. woodsistfestival.com
Tubby’s 5 Year Anniversary Weekend
Field Court, Kingston
A staple for live music in Midtown, Tubby’s is celebrating their fifth anniversary with three days full of outdoor performances at Field Court. Acts on the roster include hip-hop duo Armand Hammer, post-punk band Bush Tetras, and psychedelic rock group Ultraam. tubbyskingston.com
Orleans
Paramount Hudson Valley, Peekskill
September 29, 8 p.m.
Originating 51 years ago in the local music mecca of Woodstock, pop-rock band Orleans is still entertaining audiences with hits like “Dance with Me” and “Still the One” across their 17-album catalogue. paramounthudsonvalley.com
Emmet Cohen Trio
Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, Katonah
September 29, 8 p.m.
Joined by vocalist Lucy Yeghiazaryan, pianist Emmet Cohen performs a program of original jazz compositions. caramoor.org
Ben Folds
Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, Troy
September 30, 8 p.m.
The founding member of popular ’90s alternative band Ben Folds Five, the artist has since been touring as a solo act. His work, driven by his piano virtuosity, bends genres, which can be heard on his most recent release, “What Matters Most,” his first album in eight years. troymusichall.org
Jethro Tull’s Martin Barre: A Brief History of Tull
Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Bethel
October 5, 8 p.m.
Martin Barre, guitarist for Jethro Tull, is responsible for the band’s unique sound. Hear his skillful playing of riffs, power chords, and solos in the Event Gallery. bethelwoodscenter.org
Plasmatic Music
EMPAC, Troy
October 6
Composed by late spectral music composer Horațiu Rădulescu, this concert is performed by musicians on clarinet, electronics, organ, and flute. empac.rpi.edu
O+ Festival
Kingston
October 6–8
An annual celebration of art, music, literature, and wellness. Free to the community, this festival offers artists access to healthcare clinics in exchange for performances. Donations encouraged. opositivefestival.org
North Mississippi Allstars
Tarrytown Music Hall, Tarrytown
October 13, 8 p.m.
Playing blues and southern rock tunes to national audiences for over 25 years, this family band hits the road once again with songs from their most recent album entitled “Set Sail.” tarrytownmusichall.org
Violent Femmes
Ulster Performing Arts Center, Kingston
October 14, 8 p.m.
In celebration of the 40th anniversary of their debut album, this folk punk group will play the record in its entirety. Stand out tracks include “Blister in the Sun,” “Add It Up,” and “Kiss Off.” bardavon.org
Gipsy Kings featuring Nicolas Reyes
The Capitol, Port Chester
October 15, 8 p.m.
Fusing Rumba Catalana and flamenco genres, this group from Southern France—led by Nicolas Reyes—have been performing high energy concerts for over three decades. thecapitoltheatre.com
Andy Grammer
The Egg, Albany
October 18, 8 p.m.
This multi-platinum artist makes positive pop anthems that are best shared with audiences at loud, energetic performances. You’ll recognize singles like “Honey I’m Good,” “Fine By Me,” and “Good to Be Alive (Hallelujah).” theegg.org
Abel Selaocoe
Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, Katonah
October 22, 3 p.m.
A genre-bending cellist, Abel Selaocoe moves seamlessly between musical styles, cello techniques, singing, and body percussion during his recitals. caramoor.org
The Knights with Chris Thile
Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, Troy
October 25, 7:30 p.m.
An orchestral collective of adventurous musicians, The Knights perform vibrant sets rooted in classical music. In this show, they’ll take the stage with Grammy-winning mandolinist, singer, and songwriter Chris Thile of the bands Punch Brothers and Nickel Creek. troymusichall.org
Alisa Amador
Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, Katonah
November 3, 8 p.m.
The winner of NPR’s 2022 Tiny Desk Contest, this singer and instrumentalist is known for her bilingual music that spans Latin, jazz, pop, and funk genres. caramoor.org
Cowboy Junkies
City Winery Hudson Valley, Montgomery
November 7
Active since the mid-80s, this country/folk-rock family band are touring to support their most recent album, “Such Ferocious Beauty.” Hear tracks from the record as well as older hits at the winery. citywinery.com
DakhaBrakha
City Winery Hudson Valley, Montgomery
November 10
This quartet from Kyiv plays an unexpected fusion of traditional Ukrainian folk music and strong, worldly rhythms. citywinery.com
Abeo Quartet
Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, Katonah
November 12, 3 p.m.
Caramoor’s 2023-24 string quartet-in-residence plays the music of famous composers Beethoven and Prokofiev, plus the U.S. debut of Lee Bradshaw’s 15-minute piece “Resolve.” caramoor.org
Mat Kearney
Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Bethel
November 12, 8 p.m.
This multi-platinum, folk-pop songwriter has performed with acts like John Mayer and NEEDTOBREATHE. His autumn performance in the Event Gallery closes out Bethel Woods’ 2023 season. bethelwoodscenter.org
The English Beat
City Winery Hudson Valley, Montgomery
November 14
Formed in 1978 in Birmingham, England, The English Beat is a ska-revival band that plays upbeat, funky tunes. You’ll likely recognize popular tracks including “Mirror in the Bathroom” and “Save it for Later.” citywinery.com
The Bacon Brothers
The Egg, Albany
November 17, 8 p.m.
Did you know famous actor Kevin Bacon is in a band with his brother Michael? The duo brings a shared love of American roots music to the stage with songs that span folk, rock, soul, and country genres. theegg.org
Performance
The Anastasia File
Bannerman Castle, Pollepel Island
September 8–9
A stage reading of a play centered around a woman who claims to be the Grand Duchess Anastasia of Russia. bannermancastle.org
Off Peak
Shadowland Stages, Ellenville
September 15–October 1
In this brand-new play, a former couple reunites on the evening “off-peak” train. Entertaining conversations about their shared past—and differing views on it—prompt ultimate forgiveness. shadowlandstages.org
Dracula
Bannerman Castle, Pollepel Island
September 21–25
Back by popular demand! Adapted from the classic Bram Stoker novel, this production follows vampiric Count Dracula and his victims. bannermancastle.org
Salon Mondialite
EMPAC, Troy
September 22
Explore the concepts of memory, identity, and colonization with musician Miho Hatori. Structured as a type of talk show, the “segments” are sound stories in front of a video backdrop. empac.rpi.edu
Welcome to Night Vale
The Colony, Woodstock
September 26–27
Voice actors from the acclaimed twice-monthly podcast “Welcome to Night Vale” come to the Colony for a live reading of community updates for a fictional desert town. colonywoodstock.com
Phoenix Festival: Live Arts in Nyack
Various locations, Nyack
September 28–October 21
This annual festival brings four weeks of art, classical theatre, and more to the riverside village of Nyack. Get ready for professional shows like “Crime and Punishment,” “Scandalton,” and “Pan,” plus performances from the Children’s Shakespeare Theatre and an ARTS ROCK concert. liveartsinnyack.com
Skeleton Crew
Shadowland Stages, Ellenville
October 6–22
It’s Detroit in 2008—and a makeshift family of workers must reconcile their differences and band together amid the foreclosure of their small automotive factory. shadowlandstages.org
No Strings Marionettes: The Hobbit
Doctorow Center for the Arts, Hunter
October 18–19, 3:45 p.m.
Puppeteers controlling marionettes, life-size body puppets, and more will tell the story of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, a fantastical tale of Bilbo Baggins, who leaves his quiet life at home to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. catskillmtn.org
Comedy
Laughs Along the Wallkill
City Winery Hudson Valley, Montgomery
September 14, October 26, November 16
Every month, catch a set of comedy in City Winery’s Boiler Room. Headliners like Adrienne Iapalucci, Tara Cannistraci, and Isabel Hagen will be accompanied by two upcoming acts. citywinery.com
Pinky Patel: New Crown Who Dhis
The Egg, Albany
September 30, 7:30 p.m.
Known for her commentary and videos made from her “glam cave,” this self-dubbed PTA mom-turned-comedian brings her midlife revelations to the stage. theegg.org
Kevin James: The Irregardless Tour
The Capitol Theatre, Port Chester
October 13, 8 p.m.
Recognizable from his work in television shows and films like “The King of Queens,” “Paul Blart: Mall Cop,” and “Grown Ups,” this comedy giant reflects on topics like his youth, his career, his family, and more. thecapitoltheatre.com
Vic DiBitetto
Paramount Hudson Valley, Peekskill
October 14, 8 p.m.
Vic DiBitetto may be known for his viral video characters, but his topical jokes about shared life experiences come alive on stage. paramounthudsonvalley.com
Alan Cumming is Not Acting His Age
Tarrytown Music Hall, Tarrytown
November 12
The seasoned comedian examines what “acting one’s age” truly means in this show through a combination of jokes and cabaret songs. tarrytownmusichall.org
Lewis Black: Off the Rails!
Paramount Hudson Valley, Peekskill
November 17, 8 p.m.
Grammy Award-winning comedian Lewis Black entertains audiences with his trademark style of ranting and raving about the many absurdities of life. paramounthudsonvalley.com