Spring is in full swing, and Scottsdale Arts is marking the season with a lineup of performances, exhibitions, and interactive experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, contemporary art, or something a little more hands-on, there’s no shortage of ways to dive into the local arts scene this April.
Performances and Events
The spotlight shifts to a milestone celebration at Scottsdale Civic Center with The ARTrageous Gala on April 11. This signature event honors 50 years of the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, bringing together the community for an evening inspired by decades of artistic innovation.
Mid-month brings a mix of creativity and intrigue. On April 15, art lovers can attend the opening reception for “Nancy Kravetz: Color Forms the Day,” while April 17 invites guests back to SMoCA for Mystery in the Museum, an interactive, clue-solving adventure through the galleries.
For those who prefer to explore the outdoors, Cycle the Arts celebrates its 20th anniversary on April 19 with a free, citywide bicycle tour of public art, starting at Arabian Library.
Music fans have plenty to look forward to as well. Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors take the stage alongside Ellie Holcomb on April 19, offering an evening of heartfelt Americana. Later in the month, HOMEGROWN on April 25 showcases Arizona’s dance community with works from choreographers Liliana Gomez, Alicia Nascimento, Candy Jimenez, and Halley Willcox. The month wraps with The Wood Brothers on April 30, blending folk, blues, and soul into a richly textured live performance.
Wellness returns to SMoCA on April 23 with Glow Up @SMoCA: Gentle Yoga, inviting participants of all levels to relax and recharge within the glowing environment of “Infinite.”
Looking Ahead
The momentum continues into May with an appearance by David Sedaris on May 2 at the Orpheum Theatre, where audiences can experience his signature wit and storytelling. Later in the month, AJ’s The Art of Wine on May 16 transforms the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts into a stylish seasonal tasting event inspired by summer flavors and design.
Exhibitions to Explore
Art lovers can take their time exploring a wide range of exhibitions throughout the month. “Nancy Kravetz: Color Forms the Day,” on view from April 3 through June 14, highlights the artist’s decades-long exploration of color and form at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.
“Teaching Artists,” running through April 19, reflects on the connections built through creative collaboration, while “Mark + Making” at SMoCA dives into the role of line, gesture, and process in contemporary art.
Also at SMoCA, “Tender Alchemy: Beth Ames Swartz and Julianne Swartz” explores transformation through the works of a mother-daughter duo, while Squidsoup · Infinite continues to captivate visitors with its glowing, immersive environment through August.
Beyond museum walls, the Scottsdale Public Art collection offers more than 160 permanent installations scattered throughout the city, making art an everyday experience in parks, streets, and public spaces. From high-energy performances to quiet moments of reflection, Scottsdale’s arts scene is offering something for every mood this April—an invitation to get out, explore, and be inspired. For more: Home – Scottsdale Arts.
