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 Arts Festival 2026:
U T O P I A S
Artist proposals accepted now through December 15th
Kindling Arts Festival 2026 invites you to explore the theme of Utopias: an invitation to imagine what's possible if we let ourselves dream beyond the limits of what is. For our 9th year of radically unique arts programming, we will again feature more than a dozen performances and events from July 23-26, 2026 (Thursday - Sunday) at multiple venues across West Nashville.
The 2026 Festival celebrates the audacity of imagination. We ask: What does it mean to create in the direction of a world that isn’t here yet? How might artists model systems of belonging, justice, and joy that stretch our shared sense of what’s possible? Together, we can make something better, not someday, but here and now.
Emerging and established artists are invited to submit a proposal for performing arts events by Monday, December 15th. As always, the application process is 100% open and free.
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Kindling's Very Special Holiday Special
featuring
The Muppet Christmas Carol
Thursday-Saturday, December 18-20 at 8PM
Darkhorse Theater
Back by popular demand! Kindling‘s Very Special Holiday Special, a cherished annual tradition, returns with the third (and possibly final!) screening of the cult classic The Muppet Christmas Carol with our signature Kindling twist. Building on the hysterical original concept from Jessika Malone & Daniel Carter (Bar Fight), dynamic directing duo Emma Supica & Daniel Jones team up to add exciting new live performances to accompany the iconic film. Throughout the some of our most beloved local actors pay homage to our favorite Muppets, including performances by Emma Supica (embodying the singular Gonzo the Great), Cammie York (inspired by Rizzo the Rat), Seth Nathan Green (Nashville's very own loveable Kermit), and other special surprise guests.
