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We are Nashville's home for radically unique, independent artists.
Founded in 2018, Kindling Arts develops innovative new works by Nashville’s experimental artists, empowering diverse creators with the resources required to explore challenging ideas in a multidisciplinary context. By providing local artists with space, resources, and practical support, Kindling promotes underrepresented voices and aesthetics, making space for boundary-pushing work that would otherwise be impossible. Kindling’s core programming includes the annual Kindling Arts Festival, a multi-day celebration of local artists that showcases more than a dozen diverse performances and events in various venues throughout Nashville, as well as unique arts events year-round.


UPCOMING

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Kindling's Very Special Holiday Special
featuring
The Muppet Christmas Carol


Thursday-Saturday, December 19-21 at 7:30pm

Darkhorse Theatre

Back by popular demand! Kindling‘s Very Special Holiday Special, a cherished annual tradition, will once again feature an unforgettable screening of the cult classic The Muppet Christmas Carol alongside live performances from some of Nashville’s most exciting talent. The evening will include some of our most beloved local actors paying homage to our favorite Muppets, including performances by Emma Supica (embodying the singular Gonzo the Great), Joe Mobley (inspired by Rizzo the Rat), Seth Nathan Green (Nashville's very own loveable Kermit), and a special surprise by burlesque-theater superstar GrandmaFun. Take a breather from the holiday madness to enjoy this hilarious and heartwarming evening!

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2025 Festival Applications Now Open


Deadline: Sunday, January 5, 2025 by 11:59pm Central Time

As always: no fee to apply! 

Fortunes & Fates sets the stage for Kindling Arts Festival 2025! For our 8th year of radically unique arts programming, we will again host a wide variety of performances and events from July 24-27, 2025 (Thursday - Sunday) at multiple venues across West Nashville. Artists from any performance medium are encouraged to submit their boldest, most daring new performance creations for consideration. Continuing Kindling's commitment to radical accessibility, there is no fee to apply.

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Best Summer Arts Festival

Kindling Arts Festival 2021
(including programming at OZ Arts, The Barbershop Theater, Nashville School for the Aerial Arts, and Centennial Park)

Best Local Theater Performance

The Naughty Tree at the Blue Room (River Timms, Fable Cry, Lenin Fernandez)

Best Wrestling-Karaoke Crossover

Bar Fight!  (Jessika Malone, Diego Gomez, Daniel Carter)  

Best Summer Ticket
 

Kindling Arts Festival 2023 with highlights including The Cackleberry County Fair
immersive party, Bar Fight 2666: Broken Vows and Amm Skellars' Silver Platter at OZ Arts Nashville, and readings of new plays at the Global Education Center

GET UPDATES ABOUT KINDLING ARTS!

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To support the work of Kindling Arts and Nashville-based artists, please consider making a tax-deductible donation today.
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