Event Dates: June 3-Sep. 28, 2008

St. Louis

Region: Northeast

A thrilling and comprehensive exploration of the history of flight in our region. Photos, personal stories, gallery activities and treasures chronicle St. Louis's relationship with avaition. Flight City evokes the past while challenging you to imgine the future. At the Missouri History Museum in Forest Park.

Event Dates: Feb. 3-May, 11, 2008

St. Louis

Region: Northeast

Miao Xiaochun, an internationally exhibited Chinese artist, uses computer modeling virtual reality technology to explore Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel masterpiece from a variety of new perspectives. On display at the Saint Louis University's Museum of Contemporary Religious Art. There is a free opening reception on Sunday, February 3, 3-5 p.m.

Event Dates: March 2-May 26, 2008

St. Louis

Region: Northeast

The exhibition presents a comprehensive early history of quilt making in the United States, for the period 1760s-1850s. The display was organized by Winterthur Museum and Country Estate. Presented at the Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park.

Event Dates: March 21-June 8, 2008

St. Louis

Region: Northeast

Eight works on paper depict women who are engaged in various facets of needlework, knitting, sewing, embroidering and carding; featuring works by such artists as Childe Hassam and Jean François Millet. The exhibit demonstrates a pronounced interest in the production of handmade crafts during the mid-19th century’s rise of industrial manufacturing in Europe and America. At the Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park.

Event Dates: March 28-Aug. 15, 2008

St. Louis

Region: Northeast

Images of lobsters, oysters, hamburgers, and hot dogs in intense fusions of small, painted dots of color, as the pointillist style of painting becomes the main course in Wilkerson’s Discerning Palette. Wilkerson’s work reflects the Pop Art movement of his era and moved well past it as he cast an ironic eye upon society. Wilkerson not only painted on canvas, he also created sculpture using the same imagery as his prints and paintings. His eclectic quilt works are a patchwork of pizza slices and hot dogs. Opening reception is Friday, March 28, 5: 30 p.m. At the Saint Louis University Museum of Art.

Event Dates: March 28-Sep. 21, 2008

Carthage

Region: Southwest

Exhibit on various entertainment activities and venues in and around Carthage during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. At the Powers Museum.

Event Dates: April 1-May 16, 2008

Columbia

Region: Central

The first national equine art show to be held in mid-Missouri. Curated by the American Academy of Equine Art. The show features 35 paintings and 15 sculptures submitted by award-winning equine artists from across the United States. At the Columbia Art League.

Event Dates: April 3-May 4, 2008

Branson

Region: Southwest

Silver Dollar City presents one of America’s largest international festivals, featuring an all-new Irish Celebration with the fire dancing production Feet of Fire. Singers, dancers and musicians from around the world perform throughout the festival, including the spectacular Zunyi Acrobats of China; the new Watoto Children’s Choir, from Uganda; steel drummers from Trinidad; and pan-flute musicians from Ecuador.

Event Dates: April 9-May 2, 2008

Fulton

Region: Central

An exhibit of artwork by the William Woods seniors class and alumni. Presented in the Mildred Cox Gallery of the Gladys Woods Kemper Center for the Arts at William Woods University.

Event Dates: April 11-May 11, 2008

Kansas City

Region: Northwest

This hilarious off-Broadway musical spoof of Broadway’s best songwriters tells the classic melodrama story, in the form of five mini-musicals, of the heroine who can’t pay her rent. Four talented performers sing and act in styles ranging from classic 1940s Broadway to contemporary rock opera, bringing to life vignettes in the styles of Rodgers and Hammerstein, Stephen Sondheim, Jerry Herman, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Kander and Ebb. At Quality Hill Playhouse. Specific dates and times subject to change; visit their Web site for current schedules.

Event Dates: April 11-May 10, 2008

Columbia

Region: Central

A capstone exhibit featuring the work of Stephens College's graduating design students. The show will be accompanied by a competitive exhibition of work by all levels of Stephens fashion, graphic and interior design students. Located in Davis Art Gallery on corner of Walnut and Ripley Streets.

Event Dates: April 11-July 6, 2008

St. Louis

Region: Northeast

Freund Fellow Sarah Oppenheimer (American, born 1972) is engaged in studies involving the reconfiguration of the built environment. In past work, she has explored the social navigation of architectural surroundings, as demonstrated in a recent project exploring subway commuters’ newspaper folding habits. Oppenheimer will develop the content of Currents 102 during a month-long St. Louis residency in the fall of 2007. At the Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park.

Event Dates: April 17-June 22, 2008

St. Louis

Region: Northeast

This exhibit tells the story of a predominantly African American labor corps-barely a generation removed from slavery-who worked primarily in white households as cooks, maids, laundresses, nursemaids, butlers and chauffeurs. This program is supported by a Regional Arts Grant. At the Scott Joplin House State Historic Site.

Event Dates: April 23-May 18, 2008

St. Louis

Region: Northeast

The 2006 Tony Award-winning Best Musical is about Rock and Roll Hall of Famers The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi. This is the story of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop music history. They wrote their own songs, invented their own sounds and sold 175 million records worldwide–all before they were 30. Everyone must have a ticket, regardless of age. At the Fox Theatre. For tickets, contact MetroTix, 800-293-5949; www.metrotix.com

Event Dates: Apr. 25-27, May 1-3, 2008

Kansas City

Region: Northwest

The Kansas City Ballet presents one of the most popular ballets in the world. The story of star-crossed lovers has inspired music and dance for more than 400 years. This lavish production, with live accompaniment by the Kansas City Symphony, is sure to be the highlight in an already incredible golden anniversary year. Preformed at the Music Hall.

Event Dates: April 25-July 27, 2008

St. Louis

Region: Northeast

Laerke Lauta (Danish, born 1974) creates video installations that draw from a northern European tradition that ascribes romantic, spiritual and enigmatic qualities to the natural landscape. Lauta’s works are characterized by an undertone of unresolved suspense, the latent fear of some fatal event that is not directly revealed. Her camera does not present a decisive moment but functions instead as an instrument of premonition and doubt. Presented at the Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park.

Event Dates: April 26, 2008

Springfield

Region: Southwest

An exhibition at the Springfield Art Museum of aqueous media paintings by members of the Watercolor U.S.A. Honor Society. The Society was formed in 1985 for the purpose of elevating the stature of watermedia painting and educating the public about the significance of watercolor.

Event Dates: April 27-Oct. 31, 2008

St. Louis

Region: Northeast

The Missouri Botanical Garden presents an outdoor exhibition of 39 whimsical, imaginative mosaic and painted sculptures by French-born artist Niki de Saint Phalle. Created from fiberglass, stones, glass, mirrors and semi-precious materials, the pieces include animals, mythical figures, musicians, athletes and jubilant, dancing women called Nanas. Visitors may touch many of the sculptures; some invite exploration from the inside out.

Event Dates: May 1-June 21, 2008

Jefferson City

Region: Central

Brunet's photographs portray the intricate beauty of insects and provide insight into a moment of their lives. At the Elizabeth Rozier Gallery, located inside Union Hotel.

Event Dates: May 1-June 21, 2008

Jefferson City

Region: Central

Buzz is an exhibit by artist photographer Donna Brunet. Her photographs portray the intricate beauty of insects, providing insight into a moment of the insect’s lives. Shown at the the Jefferson Landing State Historic Site.

Event Dates: May 2-4, 2008

Kansas City

Region: Northwest

The 23rd Brookside Art Annual is located in an eclectic neighborhood in the center of Kansas City. This is the first art show of the year; it draws more thanr 70,000 people from the entire region. There will be more than 180 local and national artists. Food vendors and live music.

Event Dates: May 2, 2008

Springfield

Region: Southwest

A popular and critically-acclaimed fixture on the jazz landscape, Grammy-nominated Karrin Allyson has a warm, throaty sound, a relaxed sense of swing, and an adventurous take on expanding the jazz vocal repetoire. This event is held at the Gillioz Theatre.

Event Dates: May 2-4, 2008

Fredericktown

Region: Southeast

Azaleas; an arts and crafts; country and gospel music; tractor pull; car show; pet show; carnival rides; food; and other activities. At Jaycee Park.

Event Dates: May 2-3, 2008

Richmond

Region: Northwest

This annual festival features children’s activities; a parade; largest morel mushroom contest; sanctioned BBQ contest; talent show; Christian music show; golf tournament; 5K run; and more than 160 craft and food booths. Fresh morel mushrooms may be available.

Event Dates: May 3, 2008

Salem

Region: Southeast

Children’s free fishing tags can be picked up 5 p.m.-8 p.m. at the Montauk State Park hatchery office the night before the event, or all day during the event. All children must have a tag. No daily tag fee will be required for children younger than 16. A special designated fishing area will be provided, however, participants may fish anywhere in the park.

Event Dates: May 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 2008

Kansas City

Region: Northwest

A world premiere, sung in English with electronic text. The Lyric brings history to life in this opera about the truly epic abolitionist, John Brown. Audiences will be immersed in the tumultuous days of Lawrence, Kansas, in the 1850s. Through gorgeous choral music, composer Kirke Mechem tells Brown's story with meticulous detail and the inclusion of historical figures like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Frederick Douglass. Presented at the Lyric Theatre.

Event Dates: May 3, 2008

Mindenmines

Region: Southwest

Experience the beauty of springtime on the tallgrass prairie. Join park staff for a leisurely walk among new grasses and colorful wildflowers. Identification, uses, gardening tips and more will be shared.

Event Dates: May 3, 2008

Lexington

Region: Northwest

The Friends of the Anderson House will demonstrate the dances popular during the Victorian era. Visitors are encouraged to join in the fun. Anderson House is located at the Battle of Lexington State Historic Site.

Event Dates: May 3, 2008

Lebanon

Region: Central

Kids fish free at Bennett Spring State Park. The hatchery staff will give away special packets. There will be educational exhibits and demonstrations for the kids to enjoy. A free lunch will be provided for kids younger than 16.

Event Dates: May 3-4, 2008

Revere

Region: Northeast

The open house features Civil War reenactors and other living history presenters. Listen to musicians playing Civil War era tunes and other old time favorites. Free hot dogs and refreshments will be served. Battle of Athens State Historic Site is located on Route CC.

Event Dates: May 3, 2008

Lee's Summit

Region: Northwest

See the age old traditions of sheep shearing, carding, dyeing, spinning, felting and weaving of wool.

Event Dates: May 3, 2008

St. Louis

Region: Northeast

One of the largest Cinco de Mayo celebrations in St. Louis. Groove to the beats of Javier Mendoza, Boogie Chyld, Tamborazo Mixteco and Live Mariachi while you savor authentic Mexican cuisine and drinks. Visit their Web site for details. Ready to fiesta?

Event Dates: May 3, 17, June 7, 2008

Miami

Region: Northwest

American Indian artists will visit Van Meter State Park to paint a symbol on a large bison hide, which is a permanent exhibit in Missouri's American Indian Cultural Center. Each artist represents one of the nine American Indian tribes that lived in Missouri, all of which will eventually use the hide as a canvas to represent their tribe. Traditionally, American Indians would paint symbols and pictures on a hide to record an important event or tell a story about their lives. Each tribal council has approved a simple emblem representing their people and appointed an artist to paint it on the hide. The nine tribes include: Missouria; Osage; Delaware; Ioway; Peoria-Illinois; Kanza; Kickapoo; Shawnee; Sac; and Fox.

Event Dates: May 3-4, 2008

Springfield

Region: Southwest

The Ozark Empire Fairgrounds will be crawling with Monster Trucks. Take a ride in a Monster Truck; see the Monster Truck Thunder Drags and the Mud Bog Challenge.

Event Dates: May 3, 2008

Augusta

Region: Northeast

Enjoy live music on the patio; spectacular views, award-winning wines, wine tasting. At Mount Pleasant Winery.

Event Dates: May 3, 2008

Independence

Region: Northwest

Discounts at historic sites and Independence Square shops. Enjoy trolley rides, and free cake.

Event Dates: May 4, 2008

Augusta

Region: Northeast

Enjoy live music on the patio; spectacular views, award-winning wines, wine tasting. At Mount Pleasant Winery.

Event Dates: May 4, 2008

Springfield

Region: Southwest

The combined Missouri State University choirs and the University Symphony continue their tradition of presenting the great Masterworks of classical music. Performances showcase the talents of student musicians, ensembles and soloists. This event is held at the Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts.

Event Dates: May 7, 2008

Florissant

Region: Northeast

The Golden Dragon Acrobats represent the best of a time-honored tradition that began more than twenty-five centuries ago. Their 25 member professional troupe combines award-winning acrobatics, traditional dance, spectacular costumes, ancient and contemporary music and theatrical techniques to present a show of breathtaking skill and spellbinding beauty. At the Florissant Civic Center Theatre.

Event Dates: May 8, 2008

Salem

Region: Southeast

This trout tournament is open to persons 60 years of age or older. Two classes are designated, fly or bait, with two prizes in each class for heaviest fish and heaviest stringer. Registration is at the Dorman L. Steelman Lodge at Montauk State Park.

Event Dates: May 8-Oct. 6, 2008

St. Louis

Region: Northeast

A special exhibition of 115 paintings by Missouri artist Billyo O’Donnell. Billyo has captured the beauty of his home state by painting one scene on site in each of Missouri’s counties and in the city of St. Louis. This exhibition explores the artist’s seven-year process of research, travel, sketching and painting that resulted in this body of work. A commemorative volume has been published by the University of Missouri Press. At the St. Louis Mercantile Library, UM-St. Louis. Closed saturdays and memorial day.

Event Dates: May 9, 2008

Kansas City

Region: Northwest

REO Speedwagon will perform in the Star Pavilion at Ameristar Casino Hotel Kansas City.

Event Dates: May 9-11, 2008

Kansas City

Region: Northwest

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at this eighth annual event, featuring great music, food, dancing and exhibits.

Event Dates: May 9-Aug. 3, 2008

St. Louis

Region: Northeast

Largely concentrated in the period 1940-1969, the images in this exhibition, chosen by Gordon Parks himself, represent the finest works of his prolific career. At the Saint Louis Art Museum in Forest Park.

Event Dates: May 10-Nov. 2, 2008

Kingsville

Region: Central

This remarkable exhibit of contemporary African stone sculpture will showcase more than 40 sculptures drawn from the collection of the Chapungu Sculpture Park of Zimbabwe, Africa. They are the work of three generations of artists, most of whom are Shona. The Shona people are the majority ethnic group in Zimbabwe. They have lived in southern Africa for more than 800 years. Their hand-carved works are made of serpentine, verdite, opal, cobalt and springstone in shades of yellow, brown, red, green and gray. Stone carving workshops, music performances, discovery stations and self-guided evening sculpture tours during complement the exhibit.

Event Dates: May 10-11, 17-18, 2008

Kingsville

Region: Central

Visit Iris Hill on the east side of Powell Gardens for a spectacular display of this spring favorite. Iris expert Dr. Norlan Henderson will be on hand to give advice for your own iris gardening endeavors. Note: Mother Nature dictates peak bloom time—check their Web site for updates.

Event Dates: May 10, 2008

Davisville

Region: Southeast

This event recalls the town picnics held in nearly all small communities during the early 1900s. Period craft demonstrations, musicians and storytellers give the Dillard Mill State Historic Site the flavor of days long past. Vendors will sell handmade period products and crafts; food and drink will be available for purchase.

Event Dates: May 10, 2008

Arrow Rock

Region: Northwest

A treat for all your sense. Enjoy the sights, scents and sounds at the garden show, where you'll find beautiful plants, decorative statuary, wind chimes and more. Step inside the Old School House for the Taste of Missouri, where you can sample and purchase dozens of made-in-Missouri food products.

Event Dates: May 10-June 1, 2008

Branson

Region: Southwest

This festival, presented at Silver Dollar City, celebrates Americana at its best with hundreds of award-winning bluegrass performances, scrumptious barbecue and a large selection of of barbecue sauces.

Event Dates: May 10, 2008

Wildwood

Region: Northeast

Wish upon a star and search for craters in the moon. The St. Louis Astronomy Society will bring telescopes to help you understand the constellations, star clusters and planets. Meet at the field by the Babler statue at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park.