Berea’s Valentine weekend calendar is getting a twist of suspense this year — and it comes with dinner.

The Spotlight Playhouse will stage “The Tomb,” a murder mystery dinner show presented by The Bluegrass Players, running Feb. 13–15, 2026 at the Playhouse on 214 Richmond Road.

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🏺 The Setup: Pure Escapism

The story drops the audience into Egypt in 1999, where an archaeological team gathers to explore an ancient tomb. As the Playhouse’s show description frames it, romance and tension rise, secrets start surfacing — and then someone turns up dead, leaving the audience to help solve the crime.

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🕵️ What Makes This One Different: You’re Part of the Case

Unlike a traditional play where you sit back and watch the plot unfold, The Tomb is billed as an interactive experience with comic moments and plenty of turns built into the mystery.

And yes — dinner is included as part of the event experience.

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⏰ Showtimes to Know

Berea Tourism’s event listings indicate:

• Friday, Feb. 13 — 6:30–9:30 p.m.
• Saturday, Feb. 14 — 6:30–9:30 p.m.
• Sunday, Feb. 15 — 1:30–4:30 p.m.

(The production runs all three dates, Feb. 13–15.)

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💘 Who It’s Best For

If you’re planning a date night, this is an easy alternative to the standard dinner reservation: you get a meal, a story, and a built-in conversation starter on the drive home (“OK, who did you think it was?”). It also fits group outings — especially anyone who likes clue-solving games, themed experiences, or just laughing at suspicious characters making questionable decisions.

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If You Go

The Tomb — A Murder Mystery Dinner Show (Dinner Included)
Dates: Feb. 13–15, 2026
Venue: The Spotlight Playhouse, 214 Richmond Road, Berea
Listed times: Fri/Sat 6:30–9:30 p.m.; Sun 1:30–4:30 p.m.

BEREA, Ky. — Berea’s winter calendar has no shortage of ways to get out of the house, but some nights do double duty—fun for you, and meaningful for the town.

One of the biggest is coming up on Saturday, Feb. 21: the Berea Arts Council is bringing back “A Chili Night Out,” a benefit concert and dinner at Churchill’s. The Arts Council describes the evening as a cozy community fundraiser featuring live music by MudPi and a hearty chili dinner catered by Honeysuckle, with proceeds supporting the Arts Council’s work and programming in Berea.

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🎟️ More Than “Just a Dinner”

The Berea Arts Council is framing this as one of those “bring a friend and stay awhile” events—good food, live music, and a chance to support the kind of arts activity that quietly shapes the town’s identity year-round.

The setting fits the tone. Churchill’s describes itself as a respectfully restored historic property and notes it is part of the National Register of Historic Places, giving the night a built-in “special occasion” feel without needing formalwear.

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📅 What to Know Before You Go

Berea Tourism’s event listing posts the start time at 6:00 p.m. on Feb. 21.

Tickets are listed online through the event’s ticket page, and the Arts Council has also promoted purchasing tickets online (with some posts noting ticket availability during gallery open hours).

If you’re the kind of person who waits until the last minute, this is one worth booking early—fundraisers like this can tighten up quickly once local groups decide to make it their winter get-together.

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🎨 Make It a February Arts Month

If you’re building a “do something local” February, Berea has another easy night-out option right after: The Spotlight Playhouse has “Finally” A Broadway Revue scheduled for Feb. 20–28, 2026.

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IF YOU GO

What: A Chili Night Out (Benefit Concert & Dinner)
Host: Berea Arts Council
When: Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026 (listed start time: 6:00 p.m.)
Where: Churchill’s (Berea)
Music: MudPi
Dinner: Catered by Honeysuckle
Tickets: Available online via the event ticket page

If winter has you itching to do something that isn’t another errand or another screen, the Berea College Forestry Outreach Center has a solid answer: a full Saturday of free programs at the Pinnacles area on Saturday, Feb. 7—including guided quiet time, outdoor art, and a group hike.

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🗓️ A Feb. 7 Schedule You Can Build a Day Around

All of these Feb. 7 programs are listed through the Forestry Outreach Center calendar, and they’re easy to mix-and-match depending on your energy level:

• Forest Meditations | 10:00–11:00 a.m.
  A guided hour meant to slow down and reconnect—alone, with friends, or with neighbors you haven’t met yet.
• Red Oaks Forest School Art Club | 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
  Red Oaks Forest School brings its monthly art club outdoors at the Pinnacles. The listing calls it “free and open to all,” with a welcoming vibe for any age or skill level.
• Nature Journaling Through the Arts | 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
  If you’ve ever told yourself you want to write, sketch, paint, or even compose music “someday,” this session is designed to give you dedicated time to do it—using the forest as your prompt. Organizers suggest bringing what you love (a notebook, sketchbook, instrument, favorite materials) and note they’ll also have generic supplies available.
• Group Hike at the Pinnacles | 1:00–3:30 p.m.
  A Saturday group hike for anyone who wants company on the trail and a little more context while they walk.

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🎒 What to Bring (So It Stays Fun)

The Forestry Outreach Center’s own program notes point to a “come as you are” spirit, but a couple basics will make the day smoother:

• Dress for comfort inside and outside (layers are your friend in February).
• If you’re doing Nature Journaling, bring the creative tools you’re attached to—your favorite notebook or sketchbook, a particular set of paints, or an instrument—while knowing some materials are also provided.
• For Art Club and the hike, it’s always smart to bring water and something to sit on if you like to pause and look around.
• And because winter weather has its own opinions, it’s wise to check the Forestry Outreach Center’s calendar before heading out in case anything shifts.

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🗓️ One More Thing: Make It a February “Two-Weekend” Plan

If you like the idea of outdoors creativity one weekend and indoor entertainment the next, Berea has an easy follow-up.

The weekend after Feb. 7, The Spotlight Playhouse hosts “The Tomb,” a murder mystery dinner show, running Feb. 13–15, 2026 at its Richmond Road venue.

It’s a very different kind of storytelling than journaling in the woods—but it makes for a nice rhythm: quiet and creative first, then social and theatrical.

On winter afternoons when kids have energy to burn and parents are looking for something that doesn’t involve another screen, the Madison County Public Library’s Berea Branch has a simple answer: LEGO Club+.

The weekly program meets in the Berea branch Community Room on Thursdays from 4:00–5:00 p.m.—and the library’s pitch is exactly what it sounds like: they supply the bricks, kids supply the imagination.

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🏗️ What Happens at LEGO Club+?

According to the library’s event listing, LEGO Club+ is designed for elementary-age builders and mixes free-building with a little structure:

• Kids can build whatever their time and imagination allow
• Each week includes an optional build challenge to spark ideas
• When a build is finished, staff take a photo and add it to a “Brick Wall” display in the children’s area

That last part is a small detail with big kid appeal: it gives children a visible “gallery” of their work—something to point to the next time they walk into the library.

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📅 Upcoming Berea Dates

On the library’s “Upcoming Events” list, LEGO Club+ (Berea) appears on:

• Thursday, Jan. 22 — 4:00–5:00 p.m.
• Thursday, Jan. 29 — 4:00–5:00 p.m.

(The program listing also shows it as a repeating Thursday event.)

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🏢 Countywide Note: Richmond Has LEGO Club+, Too

If your family bounces between towns for work, school, or errands, the Richmond branch also runs LEGO Club+—and the library’s description there emphasizes displaying creations in a display case.

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📍 Where It Is and Who to Contact

Madison County Public Library — Berea Branch
319 Chestnut Street, Berea, KY 40403
Phone: (859) 986-7112

The LEGO Club+ listing names Alisha Strunk as the program contact (email and extension listed).

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🎭 A Theater Tie-In for Families Building a Winter Activity Calendar

If LEGO Club+ becomes part of your Thursday routine, families looking for another local creative outlet can also keep an eye on Spotlight Acting School, which offers theater education and performances for youth ages 4–18 and is based at The Spotlight Playhouse (214 Richmond Road, Berea).

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If You Go

LEGO Club+ (Berea Branch)
🗓 Thursdays, 4:00–5:00 p.m. — Community Room
📍 Berea Branch: 319 Chestnut St., Berea

For the most up-to-date dates (weather, holidays, schedule changes), check the library’s Upcoming Events list.

If you were planning to catch “Lil Willy’s Panto-Loons” in Richmond on the originally advertised Jan. 23–24 weekend, the key change is this:
the show is no longer listed on the EKU Center for the Arts’ main public events calendar/show listings. (Several readers have also reported the same after checking the EKU Center site directly.)

At the same time, the production’s own channels have posted that the Richmond-area showings scheduled for “next week” were canceled due to “unforeseen circumstances,” with ticket buyers told to watch for an email from EKU Center.

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What It Appears to Be Moving To

EKU Center’s “series” listing for the show currently posts Li’l Willy’s Panto-Loons at EKU Pearl Buchanan Theatre, and notes that a limited number of free tickets for EKU students are available courtesy of Student Life (ID required).

In addition, EKU Musical Theatre social posts (as indexed publicly) have promoted the production as a spring run with performances beginning Thursday, May 8, at 7:30 p.m. at Pearl Buchanan Theatre—consistent with the idea that the show has shifted into the spring slot.

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Why Some People May Still See January Dates Online

Even when a venue calendar is updated quickly, older event pages and third-party listings can lag. For example, some community event calendars and ticket marketplaces still show the January weekend.

For the most reliable “what’s actually happening,” the best indicator is the venue’s current event calendar plus any official production announcement.

Tip: For the latest, check the EKU Center for the Arts event calendar or follow EKU Musical Theatre on social media.

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Still Want a Show That Weekend? Here Are Specific Options (Jan. 23–25)

If you had set aside Friday or Saturday night (or Sunday afternoon) for live entertainment, here are confirmed alternatives in Berea for that same window:

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🎭 Live Theater Option in Berea

Blazing Guns at Roaring Gulch (or The Perfumed Badge) — The Spotlight Playhouse

• Fri, Jan. 23 — 8:00 p.m.
• Sat, Jan. 24 — 8:00 p.m.
• Sun, Jan. 25 — 2:00 p.m.

For a lot of Berea businesses, Richmond isn’t “another market” — it’s part of the weekly routine. Insurance agencies write policies on both sides of Madison County. Real estate professionals meet clients wherever the listings are. Contractors, health providers, and service businesses follow the work.

That’s why the Richmond Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Chamber Kickoff & Vendor Fair is worth a close look for Berea-area owners who do business in both towns.

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📅 Event Details

The 2026 Chamber Kickoff & Vendor Fair is scheduled for
Tuesday, January 27, 2026, from 12:00 noon to 1:30 p.m.
Organizers describe it as a signature networking event featuring a Chamber Member Vendor Fair and a complimentary light lunch to-go.
It’s free for Richmond Chamber members, and non-members can attend with a $25 ticket. Registration was listed as Jan. 6–Jan. 20 (space limited) and is now closed.

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🤝 Why Berea Businesses Find Richmond Chamber Events Useful

Even if you’re “Berea-first,” Richmond events can make sense when your customers aren’t neatly divided by city limits. The Kickoff is designed for practical introductions — the kind that lead to referrals later, especially in industries built on trust and repeat relationships.

For insurance agencies, that can mean meeting potential referral partners (real estate offices, lenders, property managers). For real estate, it can mean connecting with service vendors and community organizations that help keep deals moving. And for any small business selling services to households, it’s a concentrated way to meet the people who shape where business flows.

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💸 Cost: The “Richmond Is More Expensive” Story May Be Outdated

A lot of business owners remember a time when Richmond membership felt like the pricier option. But based on published information and current messaging, that gap appears far smaller now.

• Richmond’s membership application lists a base annual “Signature Membership” rate of $300/year for 1–5 employees (with higher tiers by employee count).
• Berea’s Chamber Join page states: “Become a member for only $30 per month, or $300 annually!” (Businesses should confirm what membership category best fits their situation.)

When the dues are in the same neighborhood, the decision shifts from sticker price to return on time: Which Chamber will you actually use, and where do your best referrals come from?

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🌐 Berea Businesses Aren’t “Berea Only”

Networking decisions make more sense when you think in service areas, not city limits. Plenty of Berea-based organizations draw customers, clients, and participants from across Madison County and beyond — including education and training businesses.

For example, Spotlight Acting School attracts students from multiple communities, which means its relationships naturally extend into Richmond and other nearby towns. For businesses with that kind of footprint, being visible in more than one Chamber network can match how people actually move across the county.

That’s also what makes Richmond’s Kickoff a solid “test” event for Berea companies: it puts a wide slice of the regional business community into one room — and lets you decide afterward whether deeper involvement makes sense.

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If You Go

2026 Annual Chamber Kickoff & Vendor Fair — Richmond Chamber of Commerce
🗓 Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026 | 12:00 noon–1:30 p.m.
💵 Free for Richmond Chamber members | $25 for non-members
🍽️ Includes: Vendor Fair + complimentary light lunch to-go
📝 Registration window was listed as Jan. 6–Jan. 20 (space limited) and is now closed.

If you’ve ever walked past a glowing studio furnace and wondered what it would be like to create something with your own hands, Berea has a winter answer: Fire & Fern Glass Studio’s Glass Snowman Workshop.

Listed on the Berea Tourism calendar for Saturday, January 24 (10 a.m.–5 p.m.), the workshop invites participants to design and shape a handmade glass snowman—choosing colors for details like the hat and scarf for a keepsake that feels personal instead of store-bought.

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🏺 A New Name in a Familiar Berea Space

Fire & Fern is one of Berea’s newer creative storefronts, but the studio itself carries a longer local lineage. According to the studio’s “Our Story,” Fire & Fern moved into the former Weston Glass Studio location in 2024, continuing a glassblowing presence in that building that dates back to Weston’s founding in 2002. Fire & Fern is now led by Jacob and Lauren Moody, who describe their goal as building a space centered on craft, community, and hands-on learning.

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🧣 What to Expect (and What to Wear)

The workshop is listed as a private class for 1–6 participants, which makes it a solid pick for families, couples, and small groups of friends. Fire & Fern notes that no experience is necessary, but because it’s real hot glass, they recommend natural-fiber clothing like cotton and closed-toe shoes, and ask participants to avoid loose clothing, scarves, and long jewelry.

One more practical detail that matters: your piece needs time to cool. Fire & Fern says creations cool overnight in a kiln and are typically available for pickup the next day (with shipping options sometimes available).

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🎨 Make it a Full “Berea Arts Day”

For visitors or locals wanting to build a full Saturday around the arts, the timing pairs well with other live entertainment in town. That same weekend, The Spotlight Playhouse continues its run of “Blazing Guns at Roaring Gulch (or The Perfumed Badge)”, with a performance listed Saturday night, January 24 (8–9:15 p.m.). It’s an easy way to spend the day creating something tangible—then cap the evening with a show.

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If You Go

Glass Snowman Workshop
Fire & Fern Glass Studio — 217 Adams St., Berea
🗓 Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026 | 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
💵 $75 per participant/snowman | Age 12+ | Pre-registration required

What to wear: natural fibers (cotton) + closed-toe shoes
Pickup: after overnight kiln cooling

If Berea Online looks a little different today, that’s intentional.

As we head into 2026, BereaOnline.com is unveiling a new logo and visual identity—one designed to better reflect what the site has become and where it’s headed next. The update isn’t about chasing trends or reinventing ourselves for the sake of change. Instead, it’s about clarity, focus, and reaffirming our role in the community.

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🎨 Why Change the Logo?

Over the past year, a clear pattern emerged in our coverage. Story after story focused on performances, exhibitions, festivals, artists, musicians, and creative spaces that define Berea’s cultural life. From theater productions to live music and community art events, the site increasingly became a place where local creativity was documented and shared.

That shift prompted a simple question: Does our visual identity still reflect what we do best?

The answer led to a careful redesign process—one that emphasized simplicity, longevity, and meaning. The result is a logo that replaces the “O” in Online with a circular mark divided by a diagonal beam. It’s abstract by design, but intentional in symbolism.

The shape represents focus and attention—a visual metaphor for shining a light on stories, people, and events that matter to Berea. The transparent diagonal cut allows the logo to work across digital and print formats, from screens to signage, without losing its integrity.

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🖌️ Designed for Where We Are—and Where We’re Going

The refreshed color palette builds on Berea Online’s history while clarifying its purpose. Blue remains the foundation, signaling trust, consistency, and credibility. Yellow introduces energy and focus, reinforcing the idea of attention and visibility. Green grounds the mark in place and community.

Just as important as what was added is what was left out. The new design avoids gradients, heavy effects, or visual clutter. Every element was chosen so the logo can scale, print, and endure. It’s meant to support the journalism, not overshadow it.

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📅 What 2026 Looks Like for Berea Online

This new look reflects more than a design change—it signals a renewed editorial focus.

In 2026, Berea Online will continue to expand its coverage of arts, culture, and community life while maintaining its commitment to thoughtful local reporting. Readers can expect deeper features, more behind-the-scenes storytelling, and continued attention to the people and places that make Berea a creative and engaging town.

The goal is simple: to be present, to pay attention, and to document what’s happening here with care and curiosity.

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💡 Same Mission, Clearer Focus

At its core, Berea Online hasn’t changed. The site remains committed to telling local stories, supporting community dialogue, and highlighting what makes Berea unique. The updated logo and design simply give that mission a clearer visual language.

As 2026 unfolds, Berea Online will continue doing what it does best—observing, listening, and sharing the stories that shape life in Berea.

Now, it just has a look that reflects that purpose a little more clearly.

Berea doesn’t just host music — it grows it.
On Friday, January 23, Berea College’s Department of Music lists Songwriters Night at 7:30 p.m. at the Loyal Jones Appalachian Center, and the best part is the simplest: it’s free.

For locals who’ve never been, Songwriters Night is one of those events that quietly says a lot about Berea. It’s not billed as a polished concert with a velvet-rope vibe. It’s closer to a musical living room: writers, singers, and instrumentalists sharing songs—sometimes new, sometimes still in-progress—because this town still believes art is something you do with your neighbors, not just for them.

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🎤 What Songwriters Night Tends to Be Like

Berea College describes Singer/Songwriter Night as an annual start-of-semester tradition hosted by the Berea College Folk Roots Ensemble, welcoming students, faculty, and community members to share music together.
In a past write-up, the evening included originals and covers, spontaneous harmonies, and an atmosphere where “mistakes” were part of the charm rather than something to fear.

That “open door” approach fits the setting. The Loyal Jones Appalachian Center exists to engage Appalachian communities through learning, partnership, and service, and its gallery is designed to transform—from exhibit space to classroom to performance hall—depending on what the community needs that day.

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🌄 Why This Matters in Berea Right Now

There’s a reason nights like this land well here: Berea is one of the few small towns where you can spend an evening hearing songs that may not exist anywhere else yet — lines scribbled last week, melodies tested out in real time — and still be home at a reasonable hour.

And because it’s on the calendar the same night as other big arts options around town, it’s also a choose-your-own-adventure kind of Friday: you can lean into the listening-room intimacy at the Appalachian Center, or build a full weekend of live performance.

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🎭 A Natural Companion: Live Theater Across Town

If Songwriters Night puts you in the mood for more live storytelling after the last chorus fades, The Spotlight Playhouse opens its next show that same weekend.
“Blazing Guns at Roaring Gulch (or The Perfumed Badge)” runs January 23–25 and January 30–31 at Spotlight’s Richmond Road location.

It’s a different flavor than a songwriter circle — bigger laughs, bigger characters — but it’s the same idea: local audiences showing up to keep Berea’s stages (and the people on them) thriving in winter.

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If You Go

Songwriters Night (Berea College Department of Music)
📍 Loyal Jones Appalachian Center, John B. Stephenson Hall (First Floor), 205 N. Main St., Berea
🗓 Friday, January 23, 2026
⏰ 7:30 p.m.
🎟 FREE

Also opening this weekend:
Blazing Guns at Roaring Gulch — The Spotlight Playhouse

Berea is set for a warm-up from the winter chill with an evening of unplugged music in the heart of Old Town.
Friday, January 23, Top Drawer Gallery hosts “3 Men & A Banjo” from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. as part of the gallery’s ongoing Acoustic Nights series.
Admission is free, with donations encouraged.

🎨 Top Drawer Gallery, long known for showcasing handmade American artistry, has also become a welcoming space for live community entertainment—an easy stop for residents looking for a low-key night out or visitors building a weekend itinerary around Berea’s arts district.

And the live-performance energy doesn’t stop at the gallery doors.
Just down the road, The Spotlight Playhouse opens its next production the same weekend:

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🎭 Blazing Guns at Roaring Gulch (or The Perfumed Badge)

January 23–25 and January 30–31, 2026 – The Spotlight Playhouse

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For anyone planning an arts-filled Friday night, the timing lines up neatly for a music-and-theater weekend in Berea—catch the acoustic set at Top Drawer, then make plans for a laugh-heavy night at the Playhouse.

Together, nights like these highlight what locals already know:
even in the coldest part of the year, Berea stays lively, with small venues and local stages keeping the town’s creative heartbeat strong.

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If You Go

Acoustic Nights at Top Drawer Gallery: 3 Men & A Banjo
📍 Top Drawer Gallery, 202 N. Broadway St., Berea
🗓️ Friday, January 23, 2026 | 7:30–9:00 p.m.
💵 Free admission; donations encouraged.

Also this weekend (and a great pairing):

The Spotlight Playhouse
🎭 Blazing Guns at Roaring Gulch
🗓️ January 23–25 and January 30–31, 2026

The stage is set for a magical run as Disney’s My Son Pinocchio Jr. comes to The Spotlight Playhouse in Berea, January 9–18, 2026. This beloved musical brings the classic tale of Pinocchio to life, offering families and theater fans a heartwarming journey filled with memorable songs, colorful characters, and important life lessons.

✨ About the Show

My Son Pinocchio Jr. is a family-friendly adaptation of the timeless story, featuring music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. The show puts a fresh spin on the Pinocchio tale, focusing on Geppetto’s perspective as he learns what it means to be a parent. Audiences will enjoy favorites like “When You Wish Upon a Star” along with new songs created just for this production.

🎟️ Performance Details

• Dates: January 9–18, 2026
• Venue: The Spotlight Playhouse, 214 Richmond Road, Berea, KY 40403
• Presented by: Spotlight Acting School
• Showtimes: Multiple performances across two weekends (check ticket link for exact times)
• Tickets: Available online at Spotlight Acting School Tickets and at the door; family-friendly pricing

🌟 Why See My Son Pinocchio Jr.?

This production is perfect for all ages, featuring a talented local cast and a story that celebrates individuality, honesty, and the power of family. The creative team has worked hard to bring the magical world of Pinocchio to life on stage with engaging choreography, vibrant costumes, and enchanting set pieces.

Attending My Son Pinocchio Jr. is a wonderful way to support local youth theater and share the joy of live performance with the whole family. Whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan or discovering the story for the first time, this show promises laughter, inspiration, and fun for everyone.

📍 If You Go

• Dates: January 9–18, 2026
• Location: The Spotlight Playhouse, 214 Richmond Road, Berea, KY 40403
• Tickets: Purchase online at Spotlight Acting School Tickets or at the door
• Admission: All ages welcome

🎨 More Local Entertainment This Weekend

Looking for more to do in the area? Don’t miss the performances of The Adventure of the Clutching Claw at the Spotlight Playhouse for a full weekend of arts and entertainment.

Make plans now to experience the magic of Disney’s My Son Pinocchio Jr. at The Spotlight Playhouse in Berea—where dreams really do come true! ✨

Celebrate Creativity, Community, and Connection at the Berea College Forestry Outreach Center

The Red Oaks Art Club invites the Berea community to an inclusive art event on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at the Berea College Forestry Outreach Center (2047 Big Hill Road, Berea, KY 40403). This event celebrates creativity, diversity, and the welcoming spirit of Berea’s vibrant arts scene. Whether you’re an experienced artist or simply curious about getting creative, the Red Oaks Art Club offers a space where everyone can create, share, and connect through art.

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🖌️ About the Red Oaks Art Club

The Red Oaks Art Club is part of the community programming offered by Red Oaks Forest School, an independent educational group rooted in nature-based and inclusive learning. Though not affiliated directly with Berea College, the club regularly partners with local organizations—such as the Forestry Outreach Center—to make the arts more accessible.

Open to all ages and skill levels, the Red Oaks Art Club is especially welcoming to those who may not have had previous opportunities to explore or showcase their artistic talents. Its mission is to foster creativity and connection, making art a shared experience across generations and backgrounds.

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🎨 Fostering Inclusivity Through Art

Central to the Red Oaks Art Club’s mission is a commitment to inclusivity. The club provides a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment for self-expression, welcoming artists from all walks of life, including those with disabilities or limited access to traditional art spaces. By lowering barriers to participation, the club ensures that creativity remains a tool for joy and community building.

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🌟 Event Highlights: Participant Showcase

The January 10 event will include a participant artwork showcase featuring original pieces created by members of the club and community participants. Expect to see a vibrant mix of styles, themes, and mediums—all reflective of Berea’s uniquely artistic character.

Whether you come to create, observe, or just enjoy the company of fellow art lovers, the event offers a chance to connect with Berea’s creative spirit and explore the power of artistic expression.

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📍 If You Go

• Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026
• Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Location: Berea College Forestry Outreach Center, 2047 Big Hill Road, Berea, KY 40403
• Admission: Free and open to all ages

All are welcome to attend, meet local artists, and learn more about joining or supporting the Red Oaks Art Club.

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🎭 More to Explore in Berea on January 10

Looking to make a full day of creativity in Berea? After visiting the Red Oaks event, head over to The Spotlight Playhouse (214 Richmond Road) for a performance of The Adventure of the Clutching Claw, a fun, family-friendly melodrama presented by the Bluegrass Players. With showings on the evening of January 10, it’s a perfect way to cap off your day of local art and entertainment.

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💬 Get Involved

Interested in becoming a member, volunteering, or supporting the Red Oaks Art Club? The event is a great opportunity to learn more. By participating, you help strengthen Berea’s arts community and support accessible creative spaces for all.

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🗓️ Mark your calendar for January 10 and join the Red Oaks Art Club at the Forestry Outreach Center—where art, nature, and community come together in true Berea spirit.

Bluegrass Players Bring Classic Melodrama to the Stage

The Bluegrass Players are kicking off 2026 with their new production, The Adventure of the Clutching Claw, running January 9–18 at The Spotlight Playhouse in Berea. This show is a classic melodrama—a theatrical genre known for its exaggerated characters, clear distinction between good and evil, and plenty of audience interaction.

What is a Melodrama?

A melodrama is a type of play that features sensational plots, heightened emotions, and characters who are either clearly virtuous or villainous. These shows are designed to be fun and engaging, often inviting the audience to cheer for the hero, boo the villain, and get involved in the action. Melodramas are family-friendly, full of laughs, and perfect for all ages.

About the Show

The Adventure of the Clutching Claw is a comic whodunit packed with twists, turns, and plenty of opportunities for the audience to participate. The story unfolds with suspense and humor, making it a lively and memorable experience for everyone in attendance.

Opening Night and Production Highlights

Opening night on January 9 will launch a week of performances filled with energy, laughter, and classic melodramatic fun. The Bluegrass Players have spent weeks preparing, with a focus on entertaining the community and delivering a polished, interactive show.

Show Details

• Dates: January 9–18, 2026
• Venue: Spotlight Playhouse, 214 Richmond Road, Berea, KY
• Tickets: Available at the box office and online at thespotlightplayhouse.com

Don’t miss your chance to enjoy a night of classic melodrama with The Adventure of the Clutching Claw. For more information or to reserve tickets, visit The Spotlight Playhouse website or contact their box office.

RICHMOND, Ky. — Richmond’s new Regional Sports Complex is steadily taking shape as one of the city’s largest public recreation projects to date. Located near Goggins Lane and Tates Creek Road, this multimillion-dollar development aims to serve local athletes, families, and visiting teams from across the region.

Construction Milestones & Current Status

• Sitework & Infrastructure: As of fall 2025, crews have completed major grading, installed utilities, and poured foundational work for parking, walkways, and several field areas.
• Fields: The complex is designed to feature 11 full-size soccer fields, with two also adaptable for youth football. Field surfacing and drainage work are ongoing, with several fields now visibly outlined and irrigation systems being installed.
• Buildings: Construction has begun on restroom facilities, concessions, and maintenance buildings. The main entrance and signage are also underway.
• Parking: Large lots are being paved to accommodate both daily users and major tournament crowds.
• Timeline: City officials report that the project remains on schedule, with a targeted opening for the first phase in late 2026. No major delays have been reported as of December 2025.

Community Impact

Once complete, the sports complex is expected to provide a significant boost to local recreation, youth sports, and tourism. The facility will host local leagues, regional tournaments, and community events, drawing visitors and generating economic activity for Richmond and Madison County.

For More Information

• Richmond Regional Sports Complex and Park – City of Richmond
• WKYT: Richmond’s new sports complex taking shape
• City of Richmond Facebook – Progress Videos & Updates

RICHMOND, KY — Audiences looking for laughter and something delightfully offbeat will find it at the EKU Center for the Arts on January 23 and 24, 2026, as the Appalachian Shakespeare Center at EKU presents “Lil Willy’s Panto-Loons.” This original sketch comedy show takes the stage at 7:30 PM both nights, promising a blend of puppets, pop culture, live music, and irreverent Shakespearean references.

A Wild Night of Comedy

“Lil Willy’s Panto-Loons” is not your typical Shakespeare production. The show delivers a vaguely Elizabethan twist on sketch comedy, combining slapstick, witty wordplay, and musical numbers. Expect a cast of eccentric characters, unexpected plot turns, and plenty of inside jokes for both Shakespeare fans and newcomers alike.

About the Appalachian Shakespeare Center at EKU

The Appalachian Shakespeare Center at Eastern Kentucky University (AppShakes) is dedicated to making classic theater accessible, engaging, and relevant for Appalachian audiences. Founded by EKU faculty and artists, the Center produces both traditional and innovative adaptations of Shakespeare and other classics, as well as new works inspired by the region’s culture and history.

AppShakes is known for its energetic performances, creative outreach, and educational programming. The Center frequently collaborates with EKU students, local schools, and community partners, offering workshops, summer camps, and touring productions throughout the region. Their mission is to “bring the joy and insight of Shakespeare to all people in Kentucky’s Appalachian communities,” emphasizing fun, inclusivity, and a spirit of experimentation.

“Lil Willy’s Panto-Loons” is a perfect example of their playful approach—blending classic literature with contemporary humor and local flavor.

If You Go

• What: Lil Willy’s Panto-Loons – Sketch Comedy Show by Appalachian Shakespeare Center at EKU
• When: January 23–24, 2026, 7:30 PM
• Where: EKU Center for the Arts, Richmond, KY
• Tickets: Available at EKU Center for the Arts or Etix

A Busy Weekend for Local Theater

The same weekend, Berea’s Spotlight Playhouse will present “Blazing Guns at Roaring Gulch.” For more about the history and fun of melodrama in Berea, check out our feature: Melodrama Rides Again: From Frontier Stages to Berea’s Spotlight Playhouse. For Spotlight’s full schedule, visit thespotlightplayhouse.com.

With two unique shows on tap, it’s a great weekend for arts lovers to explore the vibrant local performance scene.

For more information about upcoming performances and ticketing, visit the EKU Center for the Arts website or contact the venue directly.

Flu season is still in full swing, and it’s definitely not too late to protect yourself and your community with a flu shot. With winter bringing more indoor gatherings—from local ball games to Spotlight Playhouse shows and other community events—the risk of catching and spreading the flu increases. Getting vaccinated now can help keep these events running smoothly and protect those most vulnerable in our area.

Why Get Vaccinated Now?

• Flu season isn’t over: The virus can circulate through early spring, so there’s still plenty of time to benefit from the vaccine.
• Protect yourself and others: Vaccination helps prevent illness in you and those around you, especially the elderly, young children, and people with health conditions.
• Keep community events open: Staying healthy means fewer disruptions to local happenings like Spotlight Playhouse performances and other gatherings we all enjoy.

Where to Get a Flu Shot Locally

• Madison County Health Department: By appointment; most vaccines are free or low-cost.
• Baptist Health Richmond: Walk-in and curbside clinics, plus primary and urgent care options.
• CHI Saint Joseph Berea Hospital: Hospital clinics and pharmacy available.
• Walgreens & Walmart: Walk-ins welcome, insurance or self-pay options.
• Kroger Pharmacy, local clinics, and urgent care centers: Many accept walk-ins—just bring your ID and insurance card.

Tips for a Smooth Visit

• Bring your ID and insurance card.
• Most places accept walk-ins, but it’s a good idea to call ahead for current details.
• The process is quick and easy, with minimal downtime.

Community Matters

With so many local venues like Spotlight Playhouse hosting events this season, let’s all do our part to keep gatherings safe and open for everyone. A simple flu shot can make a big difference in keeping our community healthy and active.

Remember: Flu season lasts through early spring, so there’s still time to get protected. Don’t wait—get your flu shot and help keep Berea’s events going strong.

BEREA, KY – If you’re searching for the best Berea KY dinner theater experience, look no further than The Spotlight Playhouse. This December, the Playhouse was alive with holiday spirit as the Bluegrass Players brought “A Merry Mishap” to the stage—a brand-new Christmas dinner show Berea residents will remember for years to come. Directed and written by Chad Hembree, this sold-out event was a milestone for both the Playhouse and the local community.

Why No Christmas Carol This Year?

In November, the talented youth of Spotlight Acting School performed “A Christmas Carol,” allowing young actors the rare chance to play classic roles like Scrooge. Because the kids took on this holiday tradition, the Bluegrass Players presented something original for the December dinner theater—making way for “A Merry Mishap” at the Spotlight Playhouse.

A Fresh Format and Interactive Fun

This was the first time the Christmas showcase was produced as a dinner show in Berea, KY. Lee’s Catering provided a full turkey dinner with all the trimmings, earning rave reviews from guests. Over 40 actors—including grandparents, parents, and children—participated, making the event truly intergenerational. Audiences enjoyed a delicious meal and an immersive, interactive mystery, cementing The Spotlight Playhouse as a leader in Berea KY dinner theater.

The Plot and Audience Engagement

In “A Merry Mishap,” a fundraising chest goes missing, and the audience is drawn into the fun as suspects and clues pile up. The stage manager and PTA president’s frantic interruptions kept everyone guessing, and several guests correctly solved the Christmas dinner show’s central mystery. Their prize? Tickets to the next dinner show, “The Tomb,” coming February 13–15, 2026—a murder mystery set in 1999 Egypt, where romance, danger, and interactive sleuthing await at The Spotlight Playhouse.

Spotlight on Friendship and Tradition

A crowd favorite was Jeremy Grant, director at Madison Southern High School, who reprised his beloved role as Billy Ray—a character that’s been part of the Bluegrass Players’ showcase since 2014. Jeremy and Chad Hembree’s decades-long friendship shone through their on-stage camaraderie, adding warmth and humor to this Berea KY dinner theater tradition. The twist? Billy Ray tried to double the fundraiser money through cryptocurrency—delighting the crowd with a modern, playful punchline.

What’s Next for the Christmas Dinner Show in Berea?

While “A Merry Mishap” won’t return next year, plans are in the works to bring the Christmas showcase back in two or three years—potentially as another dinner show if the youth reprise “A Christmas Carol.” The Spotlight Playhouse continues to set the standard for Berea KY dinner theater and family-friendly entertainment.

As the Playhouse takes a well-deserved two-week break, we wish everyone a Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year, and God’s blessings. Thank you to the cast, crew, and community for making this event such a memorable success!

BEREA, KY — It’s been a “Finding Nemo” weekend in Madison County! While Madison Southern High School wowed audiences with their acclaimed production of “Finding Nemo Jr.”—complete with creative puppetry and glowing reviews in The Real Citizen—Spotlight Acting School joined the excitement by holding auditions for “Finding Nemo Kids” on Saturday, December 13.

As proud sponsors of Madison Southern’s “Finding Nemo Jr.,” Spotlight Acting School decided to ride the wave of enthusiasm by launching their own production for children ages 4–11. The response was fantastic: over 30 eager young actors turned out to audition, and the school is still welcoming new participants until the cast is finalized later this week.

A Welcoming Experience for Young Performers

Participating in children’s theater offers far more than just stage time. For kids ages 4–11, being part of a show like “Finding Nemo Kids” helps build memory and focus, encourages teamwork, and fosters friendships that can last a lifetime. Many adults recall their earliest and most meaningful friendships forming in rehearsal halls and choirs—Spotlight Acting School aims to create those same opportunities for today’s young performers.

Director Daesha Miller is well-known for her positive, nurturing approach, helping each child shine both on and off stage. Saturday morning rehearsals are the norm for Spotlight’s younger casts, with a supportive environment that makes learning fun and confidence-building.

About the Show

“Finding Nemo Kids” is an adaptation of the beloved Pixar film, featuring favorite songs and characters in a format perfect for young actors. The story’s themes of friendship, perseverance, and courage are especially meaningful for children, encouraging them to “just keep swimming” even when faced with challenges.

After several months of rehearsals, the cast will present their performances at The Spotlight Playhouse. (Performance dates will be announced soon—check Spotlight Acting School’s website and The Spotlight Playhouse for updates.)

Why Theater Matters

Studies show that involvement in the performing arts helps children develop essential skills in communication, critical thinking, and empathy. For the youngest students, it’s also a chance to build self-esteem, make new friends, and discover the joy of creative expression.

Interested in Joining?

There’s still time for new students to join the “Finding Nemo Kids” cast before roles are finalized. For more information about enrollment, rehearsal schedules, and upcoming shows, visit Spotlight Acting School.

BEREA, KY — I-75 construction in Madison County, KY has finally reached completion, bringing relief to drivers as all lanes are now open. This milestone wraps up years of lane closures and slowdowns, and marks a major improvement for local commuters and businesses.

What Drivers Need to Know

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) project included repaving all travel lanes, drainage and slide repairs, bridge barrier wall work, exit ramp upgrades, restriping, and safety enhancements along roughly 12 miles of I-75 between mile marker 86 (south of Richmond) and the Clays Ferry bridge near mile marker 98.

The project began in earnest in 2022, with alternating lane closures, reduced speed zones, and shifting traffic patterns causing delays for commuters and freight traffic alike. While the project was originally scheduled for completion by late October 2025, crews managed to reopen all lanes ahead of schedule by mid-October. Final finishing work—including shoulder improvements, striping, and occasional intermittent closures—will continue through the end of the year, but major travel disruptions are over.

For more on local road projects, see our infrastructure improvements roundup.

What Drivers Can Expect Next

• All Lanes Open: Interstate traffic now flows freely through Madison County, with barrels and barriers removed.
• Finishing Touches: Occasional short-term lane closures may occur for shoulder work or striping, but these will be minimal compared to past disruptions.
• Safer, Smoother Travel: Drivers benefit from new pavement, improved drainage, and upgraded bridge barriers.
• Economic Relief: Local officials and businesses anticipate improved access and renewed economic activity now that the highway is fully open.

For project updates, visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

Community Response

Local news outlets report widespread relief among residents, commuters, and business owners, with many expressing optimism about the positive impact on daily life and regional commerce. “I-75 construction in Madison County was a headache, but having all lanes open again is a huge relief,” said one local driver.

For continued updates, visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s website or local news outlets.

Before Netflix, before radio—even before motion pictures—there was melodrama. With caped villains, valiant heroes, and a call for audience cheers and boos, this theatrical genre swept across America in the 19th century. Today, that same spirit is alive and well in Berea, where The Spotlight Playhouse is reviving a tradition of laughter, suspense, and shared spectacle.

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Traveling Troupes and Theatrics: How Melodrama Swept a Nation

Though its roots trace back to European theater, melodrama truly found its stride on American soil. Traveling troupes brought the genre to life in opera houses, barns, and makeshift frontier stages, making it accessible and wildly popular in communities large and small.

Notable 19th-century stage figures like Laura Keene helped popularize theater in America; future screen stars such as William S. Hart also got their start on stage, exemplifying the era’s theatrical spirit. While not all were dedicated melodramatists, their work contributed to a thriving American stage culture in which melodramatic styles flourished.

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Heroes, Villains, and Audience Cheers: What Makes Melodrama Tick

A classic melodrama is easy to spot: a noble hero, a virtuous damsel, a scheming villain, and comic sidekicks all collide in a whirlwind of peril, slapstick, and last-minute rescues.

Music underscores the action, inviting the audience to boo, cheer, and hiss in all the right places. These productions mattered because they offered affordable, family-friendly entertainment to the masses—often with moral lessons and plenty of spectacle. The interactive nature made every show a true community celebration.

In many ways, venues like The Spotlight Playhouse echo the makeshift stages of old—where neighbors came together, not just to watch a show, but to feel part of one.

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While melodrama may have been born in the 1800s, its heart still beats in small-town theaters across America. This January, Berea audiences can experience that legacy firsthand.

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Spotlight on the Stage: Melodrama Returns to Berea This January

The Spotlight Playhouse—known for its community-centered programming and educational outreach—will host two lively melodramas in January 2026, keeping the art form vibrant in Kentucky and beyond.

The Adventure of the Clutching Claw (January 9–18, 2026)

A classic mystery melodrama packed with twists, comic chaos, and crowd-pleasing antics! When the priceless Clutching Claw emerald vanishes during a gala at the manor, everyone’s a suspect. Enter the bumbling Detective O’Reilly, who must untangle a web of outrageous alibis, eccentric suspects, and slapstick mishaps. Will the cunning villain be unmasked before the final curtain? Audiences will love the parade of quirky characters, red herrings, and moments to boo, cheer, and join the fun.

This production marks the directorial debut of Faith Worley, bringing fresh vision to the Spotlight stage.

Blazing Guns at Roaring Gulch (January 23–31, 2026)

Step into the wild west! In this high-stakes showdown, the mustache-twirling villain, Snipe Vermin, has his sights set on stealing the town’s gold mine and running honest folks out of Roaring Gulch for good. Courageous townsfolk, led by the quick-witted heroine, Sally West, and the brave but slightly clueless Sheriff Harry Heartstone, must band together to save their home. With shootouts, slapstick, a saloon full of surprises, and a cast of colorful frontier characters, this production promises laughter, adventure, and a full dose of frontier justice.

Directed by Kat Davis, a Spotlight regular with many shows under her belt, this production features a cast of local favorites and new faces alike.

Both productions showcase local talent, with actors drawn from Berea and nearby communities.

“We love how melodrama invites the audience into the story,” says Chad Hembree, Executive Director at Spotlight. “It’s theater at its most fun—people laugh, boo, and leave feeling like they were part of something special.”

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A Living Legacy: Why Melodrama Still Charms Audiences Today

By staging these shows, Spotlight Playhouse honors a uniquely American tradition—one where the audience is part of the action, and the line between stage and seats is joyfully blurred.

Melodrama’s spirit of community, humor, and hope continues to resonate, making it as important today as it was on the frontier.

Don’t miss your chance to experience melodrama in January—where the art lives on, and everyone’s invited to boo, hiss, cheer, and laugh!

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🎭 Melodrama 101:

• Hero: Noble, brave, slightly clueless
• Villain: Mustache-twirling, sneaky, boo-worthy
• Audience Role: Boo! Hiss! Cheer! Laugh!
• Where to Catch It: Spotlight Playhouse, January 2026