In this episode of Talking Art, Miguel Peña, director of Ballet Folklórico del Rio Grande, joins the conversation to explore the artistry and cultural significance of folklórico dance. Composed of alumni from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley—home to the only folklórico dance major in the United States—the company brings the rich regional traditions of Mexico to life through vibrant movement, music, and storytelling.Miguel shares insight into the discipline and creativity behind folklórico performance, from intricate footwork to the visual impact of traditional costumes. The conversation also highlights the company’s work in education, where they introduce students to the fundamentals of folklórico while sharing the cultural stories that shape each dance. With performances at prestigious venues like the Kennedy Center and international tours across multiple countries, Ballet Folklórico del Rio Grande continues to preserve tradition while connecting audiences to the depth and diversity of Mexican heritage.

Appointment bookings at the Alchemist Art Studio have been steady in its first month. Owner Grace DeVrieze is seeking artists to decorate the studio located at 1623 2nd Avenue in downtown Rock Island.

Shelley Cooper — a solo actor, director, playwright, composer and Augie professor — will star in “Master Class” at Moline’s Black Box Theatre, May 15-24.

Oy, “miracle of miracles” the QCA has another chance, in less than 2 years, to take in one of theatre’s most beloved musicals: Fiddler on the Roof which is now playing at Circa 21 Dinner Theatre in Rock Island and directed by Georgette Kleier, who is making her debut at Circa. I certainly hope it won’t be her last visit.

Internationally renowned Danish artist Thomas Dambo is known for creating towering, whimsical trolls that can be found all around the world. Built from reclaimed materials, they've popped up in hidden, natural locations all across the globe. Now, there are four to find in Iowa.

A new film festival celebrating Latino culture and community is coming to Iowa City this weekend. The inaugural Aquí y Allá Latin American Film Festival takes place May 1-3 at FilmScene’s Chauncey cinema and features six new premieres.

The 2026 theatre season is off with a bang – literally. Playcrafters Barn Theatre’s second production is Charles Fuller’s 1982 Pulitzer Prize winning A Soldier’s Play, directed by Renaud Haymon and is a sterling example of Playcrafters’ conscious outreach toward inclusion in their theatre.

In this episode of Talking Art, Monica Leo of Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre joins the conversation to explore the art and impact of puppetry. As founder and lead puppeteer of the West Liberty–based company, Monica has spent decades creating original works, building puppets by hand, and bringing stories to life for audiences across the country and around the world.

Fans of the popular “Church Basement Ladies” franchise have a similar but “different” show to add to their compendium of favorites, that being Richmond Hill Players current production of Bo Wilson’s The Charitable Sisterhood of the Second Trinity Victory Church directed by Mike Skiles.

By late August, concertgoers at Common Chord’s Redstone Room will enter a reworked venue on the ground floor in the historic Redstone Building at 2nd and Main streets, Davenport