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Charleston Celebrates 45th Annual Piccolo Spoleto Festival

Festivals and performances at the Piccolo Spoleto Festival in Charleston

News Summary

Charleston is gearing up for the 45th annual Piccolo Spoleto Festival, running from May 23 to June 8. This vibrant event coincides with the renowned Spoleto Festival USA and features a diverse array of artistic expressions, including theater, music, literature, and visual arts. The festival showcases local talent and emphasizes cultural heritage, offering an engaging programming schedule for family-friendly events and a grand finale that promises to entertain and unite the community.

Charleston is set to celebrate the 45th annual Piccolo Spoleto Festival from May 23 to June 8, coinciding with the renowned Spoleto Festival USA. This event showcases a diverse range of art forms including theater, comedy, literature, music, and visual arts, highlighting Charleston’s rich cultural landscape.

Festival Highlights

The festival will commence with a major kickoff event on May 23 at the U.S. Custom House, featuring a concert by the Charleston Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Ryo Hasegawa. The performance will also showcase guest artist Kyaunnee Richardson, promising an exhilarating experience for attendees.

On the night of May 24, the festival will present the Pajama March, a unique event led by the Seed and Feed Marching Abominable, running from 10:30 p.m. to midnight. The following day, a Memorial Day concert is slated for 3 p.m. at Hampton Park, contributing to the weekend festivities.

Cultural Programming

The festival places a strong emphasis on cultural heritage with events such as “Gullah Geechee Connecting Wid Da Diaspora”, occurring on May 24 to honor the Gullah Geechee heritage. Daily programming will include the Early Music Series, held at 3 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church from May 24 to June 7, featuring classical performances by various musicians.

From May 26 through June 6, L’Organo concerts will take place daily at 10 a.m. at assorted churches, featuring artists like Sarah Carlson and collegiate musicians, with a brief hiatus on May 31 and June 1. Additionally, the Spartina Consort and the North Carolina Baroque Orchestra will perform as part of this series.

Improv and Performance Arts

The festival will also include improv shows as part of the Piccolo Fringe at Theatre 99, featuring “Doozy” with Edi Patterson from June 4 to June 6, and “The Have Nots!” which is Charleston’s longest-running improv show, with performances on May 31 and June 7. A special “Take the Funny and Run” show is scheduled for May 30 to introduce various improv games.

Poetry and Visual Arts

Literary enthusiasts can enjoy the Sundown Poetry Series at Washington Square, featuring both local and visiting poets sharing their work. Meanwhile, the Outdoor Art Exhibition at Marion Square will run throughout the festival, showcasing over 50 artists’ works, promoting the visual arts within the community.

Family-Friendly Events

Family Day on May 24 at Marion Square will offer live music, arts and crafts, kids’ activities, and a farmers market, making it a strong attraction for families looking to engage with the arts.

Conclusion of the Festival

The festival will culminate in a free finale at Hampton Park on June 7, featuring local bands and food trucks, reinforcing the community spirit that the Piccolo Spoleto Festival seeks to promote. This year’s festival aims to bridge gaps between generations and various communities through art, continuing its long tradition of cultural celebration in Charleston.

The Piccolo Spoleto Festival stands as a vibrant tribute to the arts, fostering appreciation and participation across a wide spectrum of cultural expressions, reflecting the unique identity of Charleston.