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Connect2Culture is your source for arts and culture in the Joplin area. Check out the latest performances, events, exhibits, and classes below. C2C is a nonprofit arts organization "igniting a passion for the arts, culture, and entertainment."
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Midwest Regional
Ballet Presents: Oz
Thursday, May 13–
Saturday, May 15
7:30pm (Saturday 2:30pm)
Bicknell Family Center for the Arts
(1711 S Homer St, Pittsburg, KS)
If I only had a ticket! Experience the classic Wizard of Oz reimagined as a contemporary dance performance. Watch as the students of Midwest Regional Ballet dance (and, in some cases, fly) to the funky, punk-rock covers of this beloved movie. Masks are required, seats will be socially distanced, and only 550 guests will be admitted per show. General Admission Tickets: Balcony $12, Floor $15. Click here to purchase tickets. More information: Kaye Lewis, 620.235.4831.
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Opening Reception: Through the Lens
by Four State Photography Enthusiasts
Friday, May 14 | 6:00–7:00pm
Spiva Center for the Arts,
Upstairs Gallery (222 W 3rd St)
Celebrate the local photographers from the Four State Photography Enthusiasts group, who have captured people, landscapes, and animals with incredible skill. See their work in the group's annual, juried exhibit Through the Lens. More information: Jade Henning, 417.623.0183.
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Small Works Auction
Closing Party
Friday, May 14 | 6:00–8:00pm
Spiva Center for the Arts,
Regional Gallery (222 W 3rd St)
Celebrate the closing of Spiva's annual Small Works Auction with a final bidding party complete with food, music, and what is sure to be a great time! This event will be held both indoors and outdoors under a tent. Click here to browse the available works. More information: Jade Henning, 417.623.0183.
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Joplin Empire Market and
Empire Market Curbside
Saturdays | 10:00am–2:00pm
(Curbside 10:30am–12:30pm)
Joplin Empire Market
(931 E 4th St)
The Joplin Empire Market is the place to find the best in locally grown produce, gourmet foodstuffs, and handmade artisan goods. Housed in a historic brick building adjacent to downtown, this indoor/outdoor public market is Joplin’s newest gathering spot. Vendors selling their goods will be spaced out to accommodate social distancing, with hand washing stations throughout. Advanced online ordering for curbside pickup is still available for you to secure all of your favorite Empire Market goodies! Online ordering begins Tuesdays at 8:00pm and ends Thursdays at 8:00pm and can be made by clicking here. Curbside pickup is held Saturdays from 10:30am–12:30pm. More information: Ivy Hagedorn, 417.986.3914.
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Connect2Culture Presents:
Live from The Sheldon
with Kurt Elling
Saturday, May 15–
Saturday, May 22
Online | Click here to watch!
Connect2Culture, in collaboration with HEC Media and The Sheldon, presents Live From The Sheldon, a monthly, virtual concert series recorded live at The Sheldon Concert Hall in St. Louis, Missouri! May's performance features Kurt Elling, whose unmistakable voice and dynamic repertoire have made him one of today’s most compelling jazz vocalists. From his daring takes on timeless standards, to his emotionally resonant originals, Elling’s performances have been hailed by The Washington Post as “suffused with graciousness, beauty, and, on occasion, heartbreak.” Tune in to see this incredible artist on Connect2Culture's YouTube channel. The performance goes live on Saturday, May 15 at 7:00pm and will be available through Saturday, May 22. This performance is produced by HEC Media, in partnership with The Sheldon and Connect2Culture. Free and open to the public. More information: Chris Peimann, 314.533.9900 X19.
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Saturday, May 15 | 1:00pm
Joplin History & Mineral Museum
(504 Schifferdecker Ave)
Joplin History & Mineral Museum is celebrating a huge milestone – and you’re invited to join the celebration! Stop by the museum between 1:00pm and 3:00pm for cake, punch, and local history. Free and open to the public. More information: Christopher Wiseman, 417.623.1180. |
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Route 358 Live at Northwood
Saturday, May 15 | 7:00pm
Northwood Arts & Event Center
(115 N Wood St, Neosho, MO)
Route 358 is a duo best known for their original music and playful, live performances. Blending music from across multiple genres, this acoustic act is a must-see! Click here to purchase tickets online. Tickets: $10. More information: Jeff Jones, 417.389.4726.
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Bookhouse Cinema Online Streaming
& Indoor Screenings
All Month
Bookhouse Cinema
(715 E Broadway St) &
Online | Click here to stream!
Bookhouse Cinema is an independent micro theater and pub in the East Town neighborhood. They show a variety of independent, classic, and foreign films while offering a great pub environment. Attend a variety of screenings at Bookhouse's indoor theatre and enjoy delicious food and drinks from their kitchen. Need a night in? Consult their take out options and stream a variety of films from home. Click here to start streaming. In-person screenings limited to 10 people. More information: Holly Crane, 417.825.5161.
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Joplin Comedy:
Open Mic Comedy Night
Sundays | 9:00pm (Sign-Up 8:30pm)
Blackthorn Pizza & Pub
(510 S Joplin Ave)
Try out your latest stand-up routine or take in the acts of local comedians, all while enjoying tasty pizza from Blackthorn Pizza & Pub. Age restrictions: 18+ until 10:00pm. 21+ from 10:00pm until close. Free and open to the public. More information: Dakoda Potter, 417.540.9186.
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Joplin Arts Fest
Application Process
Thursday, April 1–
Friday, June 18
Online | Click here to apply!
Joplin Arts Fest is Southwest Missouri’s premier fall arts festival – and you can be a part of it! This juried event showcases exceptional talent from 2D and 3D artists exhibiting their original artwork. This year's festival will be held at the Joplin Empire Market, a historic venue that will feature outdoor, courtyard booth spaces and indoor booths. The art festival will be held on Friday evening, September 17, 2021 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm and Saturday, September 18, 2021 from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Click here for additional details or for the application. More information: Ivy Hagedorn, 417.986.3914.
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Senior Show 3
May 10–15, 2021
Missouri Southern State University,
Spiva Art Gallery (3950 E Newman Rd)
An exhibit showcasing the artwork of Missouri Southern State University's graduating seniors. Additional details to come. Free and open to the public. More information: Dr. Christine Bentley, 417.625.9563.
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Larger Than Life
By V. Leigh
May 4–June 2, 2021
Chaos Brewing
(112 S Main St)
Illustrative, colorful, and frequently surrealistic, V. Leigh's oil pastel artwork is truly a sight to behold. Grab a pint at Chaos and spend some time admiring this artist's work. Cheers! Free and open to the public. More information: Veronica Carr.
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Made of Objects
By Amber Mintert
May 1–31, 2021
Joplin Avenue Coffee Company
(506 S Joplin Ave)
Painter and Missouri Southern State University Professor Amber Mintert presents a collection of whimsical works in her exhibit Made of Objects. More information: Linda Teeter, 417.438.5931.
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Through the Lens
By Four State Photography Enthusiasts
May 1–31, 2021
Spiva Center for the Arts,
Upstairs Gallery (222 W 3rd St)
The Four State Photography Enthusiasts are proud to present their annual exhibit Through the Lens. In this juried, photographic exhibition, the skills and talents of local photographers are showcased through spectacular pictures of people, landscapes, and animals. Experience the stunning works of these photographers today! More information: Jade Henning, 417.623.0183.
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Chilling Out with Color
By Connie Miller
May 1–June 30, 2021
Beast and Barrel
(530 S Main St)
Connie Miller, a local, mid-century artist, provides a pop of color in her bold, vivid exhibit "Chilling Out with Color." Free and open to the public. More information: Linda Teeter, 417.438.5931.
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Paint in Motion
By Philip Ledbetter
April 2–May 15, 2021
artCentral Carthage
(1110 E 13th St, Carthage, MO)
After the pandemic reached the four-state area, artist Philip Ledbetter’s exhibit Paint in Motion was postponed. Now, at long last, see this talented artist’s distinctive technique in his latest body of work, which was inspired by the sun, sea, nature, other artists, and music. Free and open to the public; donations appreciated. More information: Alice Lynn Greenwood-Mathé, 417.358.4404.
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Samplings
By Brenda Sageng
April 1–May 31, 2021
Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce
(320 E 4th St)
Brenda Sageng, a Missouri Southern State University adjunct art professor, presents a collection of paintings demonstrating her skill and control. Free and open to the public. More information: Linda Teeter, 417.438.5931.
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PhotoSpiva 2021
March 20–May 15, 2021
Spiva Center for the Arts,
Main Gallery (222 W 3rd St)
Celebrating its 45th year, PhotoSpiva 2021 delivers an exhibit of photographic excellence from artists across the country. Images were selected by juror Adam Finkelston. The week of the exhibit opening, Finkelston will blind judge the work, without knowledge of the entrants or their status as emerging or professional photographers, and without categories to distinguish photographic processes. The competition is open to all US photographers, and any type of photographic process – from traditional to digital to photo-based mixed media – is eligible, as long as it results in a two-dimensional print that has never been shown at Spiva. Free and open to the public; donations appreciated. More information: Jade Henning, 417.623.0183.
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2021 Small Works Auction
March 20–May 15, 2021
Spiva Center for the Arts,
Regional Gallery (222 W 3rd St)
Good things do come in small packages! At Spiva Center for the Arts, those small packages will measure 12”x12”, 9”x12” or 6”x6” during the 23rd annual Small Works Auction. In this exhibit and auction, more than 70 Spiva member artists create works from jewelry to collage, which they donate for auctioning. The exhibit is not only a great way to raise money for Spiva operations, but an excellent opportunity to offer exposure for the participating artists. Free and open to the public; donations appreciated. More information: Jade Henning, 417.623.0183.
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The ABCs of
Folklore and Slang
By Deby Gilley
March 5–May 30, 2021
Joplin Public Library,
Bramlage and Wilcoxon
Foundation Gallery (1901 E 20th St)
The ABCs of Folklore and Slang is an exhibit featuring 26 linocuts by artist Deby Gilley. Inspired by positive feedback about the titles she gives her works, this series is based on an alphabetical sequence of key letters from the words within the titles. Gilley created these works, which reflect an Ozark heritage, using the relief-printmaking process. “I am hopeful that my chosen images and titles offers a new and refreshing experience to the use of the slang and familiar sayings. Some of the images are people and animals that I know very well," said Gilley. Her book, The ABCs of Folklore and Slang Told in 26 Linocuts, was released in 2020. Free and open to the public. More information: Jill Sullivan, 417.623.7953 x1041.
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Post Mail Art Projekt 2021:
Show Me Mail Art
March 1, 2021–January 31, 2022
Post Art Library
(1901 E 20th St)
In 2014, Post Art Library put out an international call for mail art for an exhibit that has since turned into an ongoing project. Post Mail Art Projekt 2021: Show Me Mail Art is an exhibit of pieces in their collection, as well as an active call for mail art. The call is open to anyone who would like to participate, but Missouri residents are particularly encouraged to send mail art in celebration of the state Bicentennial! Click here for full details, including where to mail art, what will happen to mail art once it is received, and more. Post Mail Art Projekt 2021: Show Me Mail Art is in partnership with Connect2Culture and the Joplin Public Library and will be on exhibit inside the library from March 1, 2021 through January 31, 2022. Free and open to the public. More information: Jill Sullivan, 417.623.7953 x1041.
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Little Acorns: Hooray
for Hummingbirds (Ages 2-8)
Saturday, May 15 | 10:30am
Online | Click here to sign up!
It won't be long before these winged jewels will arrive for their summer nesting season! Learn more about Missouri's smallest and most energetic bird during this fun, virtual program. Registration and a valid email address is required to receive the program link. Click here to register. Free and open to the public. More information: Kensi Tillman, 417.629.3434.
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Paint Your Pet
Saturday, May 15 | 6:30–9:30pm
Create N Sip Studios
(223 W 3rd St)
Celebrate your favorite pet by painting their portrait, no experience needed! Register at least 48 hours in advance and send a picture of your pet to be sketched onto a canvas for you to paint. Allow up to three hours for this event. Cost: $52. More information: John Coleman, 417.680.5434.
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Spiva Art Class
at The ROCC
Fridays | 10:00–11:00am
The ROCC
(1402 S Main St)
The Recovery Outreach Community Center (ROCC), a community center that provides peer recovery support services, is partnering with Spiva Center for the Arts for weekly art classes! Join them every Friday at 10:00am and express yourself, regardless of your artistic abilities. All ages welcome. Free and open to the public. More information: Jade Henning, 417.623.0183.
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Connect2Culture Presents:
Live from The Sheldon
with Kurt Elling
Saturday, May 15–
Saturday, May 22
Online | Click here to watch!
Connect2Culture, in collaboration with HEC Media and The Sheldon, presents Live From The Sheldon, a monthly, virtual concert series recorded live at The Sheldon Concert Hall in St. Louis, Missouri! May's performance features Kurt Elling, whose unmistakable voice and dynamic repertoire have made him one of today’s most compelling jazz vocalists. From his daring takes on timeless standards, to his emotionally resonant originals, Elling’s performances have been hailed by The Washington Post as “suffused with graciousness, beauty, and, on occasion, heartbreak.” Tune in to see this incredible artist on Connect2Culture's YouTube channel. The performance goes live on Saturday, May 15 at 7:00pm and will be available through Saturday, May 22. This performance is produced by HEC Media, in partnership with The Sheldon and Connect2Culture. Free and open to the public. More information: Chris Peimann, 314.533.9900 X19.
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Downtown Poetry Reading
and Open Mic
Third Mondays | 6:00–8:00pm
Joplin Avenue Coffee Company
(506 S Joplin Ave)
A poetry reading and open mic event! Open mic sign-up begins at 6:00pm. Featured reader, Kalyn McAlister, begins at 6:15pm. At 7:00pm, open mic readings will follow Stone's reading. This event occurs on the third Monday of each month – same place, same time. More information: Allison Blevins.
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Ben Miller's Acoustic Songwriter Night
feat. Hadden Sayers and Paul Benjaman
Monday, May 17 | 6:30pm (doors 6:00pm)
The Coda Concert House
(2120 E 24th St)
A night of original songs and stories featuring talented songwriters and musicians Hadden Sayers, Paul Benjaman, and Ben Miller! There is a suggested, minimum donation of $25. More information and reservations: Jeff Morrow. In response to reservations, a confirmation email with the address, directions, parking etc. will be sent in return. All proceeds benefit the artist performing.
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Joplin Area Town and Country
Quilters Show and Tell
Tuesday, May 18 | 1:00pm
Schifferdecker Park (W 4th St)
A chance to show off quilting accomplishments! Although there will be no lecture, pot luck lunch, or guest speaker, members of the Joplin Area Town and Country Quilters are encouraged to show their latest quilting projects completed since the last informal get-together. Quilters who attend are asked to bring their own lawn chairs and to meet at the brown, wood pavilion by the tennis courts. In the case of rain, the gathering will be cancelled. If interested in joining, dues are $20 a year and membership is open to quilters of all ages and abilities. The Joplin Area Town and Country Quilters asks that only members of the group attend this event. More information: Kathy Knapp, 417.825.7078.
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Third Thursday
Thursday, May 20 | 5:30–8:30pm
Main Street in Downtown Joplin
After nearly one year without it, Third Thursday, Joplin's premiere cultural event, is back! Every third Thursday, March through October, thousands of people gather on Main Street in Downtown Joplin to enjoy local artisans, music, entertainment, and food. Free and open to the public. More information: Lori Haun, 417.501.9649.
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Heartland Opera Theatre Presents:
Hits from Opera and Operetta LIVE!
Thursday, May 20 | 6:30pm
Carmine's Wood Fired Pizza
(524 S Joplin Ave)
Mozart, Verdi, Gilbert and Sullivan, Bizet and more! Heartland Opera Theatre has brought together local artists to sing some of opera’s most beloved music. Join them to hear well-recognized tunes that everyone will enjoy! Free and open to the public. More information: Emily Larson, 512.796.2553.
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Pratt Presents:
Comedy Open Mic
Thursdays | 8:00pm
Brew Pub & Parlor
(813 S Main St)
Listen to some great local comedy or try your latest stand-up routine at Brew Pub & Parlor! Free and open to the public. More information: Travis Pratt.
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Downtown Joplin Clean Team
Friday, May 21 | 5:30–6:30pm
Route 66 Mural
(617 S Main St)
Do you love your downtown? Do you wish to keep it what it is - creative, colorful, and connected? Do you have an hour after work to dedicate your time? By joining your neighbors in one or more Clean Team events, you can keep Downtown Joplin looking fresh and alive. Click here to sign up and pitch in. Downtown Joplin Alliance will provide supplies, though you’re more than welcome to bring extra brooms, rakes, or gloves. Unable to attend a Clean Team event? Gather friends, family, or coworkers and take 10-15 minutes walking around Downtown Joplin, cleaning up any trash and debris. Then, share before and after pictures of your efforts with #trashtag on Downtown Joplin Alliance's Facebook page! The Clean Team will meet at the Route 66 Mural on Main Street. Free and open to the public. More information: Lori Haun, 417.501.9649.
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Heartland Opera Theatre Presents:
Hits from Opera and Operetta LIVE!
Friday, May 21 | 6:30pm
Big Spring Park
(Neosho, MO)
Mozart, Verdi, Gilbert and Sullivan, Bizet and more! Heartland Opera Theatre has brought together local artists to sing some of opera’s most beloved music. Join them to hear well-recognized tunes that everyone will enjoy! Free and open to the public. More information: Emily Larson, 512.796.2553.
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Pratt Presents:
Uncle Bam
Friday, May 21 | 9:00pm
Brew Pub & Parlor
(813 S Main St)
Enjoy an evening of laughs hosted by Travis Pratt! Comedian Uncle Bam and other surprise guests will perform their hilarious stand-up routines. Tickets available online. Tickets: Online $10, At Door $15. More information: Travis Pratt.
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JRAC Coffee Hour
Fourth Saturdays | 10:00am
Beckett's Cafe
(705 Illinois Ave)
Joplin Regional Artists Coalition (JRAC) Coffee Hours offer JRAC members the opportunity to network, socialize, announce personal art-related news, discuss a pre-determined general art topic, or participate in a professional development workshop. JRAC Coffee Hours are held on the fourth Saturday of each month. Guests and members are welcome to attend. Membership dues for JRAC are $35 annually. JRAC is a not-for-profit established to empower visual artists in the area by helping them network with other artists and the community-at-large. More information: Marta Churchwell.
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Exploring the Carver Museum Collection
Sunday, May 23 | 1:00pm
George Washington Carver NM
(5646 Carver Rd, Diamond, MO)
Celebrate International Museum Day by learning about George Washington Carver National Monument's museum collections and admiring some of the artifacts currently housed at the park. Due to current conditions, this event is subject to change. All GWC programming will be conducted outdoors with a social distancing order as outlined in national and CDC guidelines. Free and open to the public. More information: Sarah Martin, 417.325.4151.
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Heartland Opera Theatre Presents:
Hits from Opera and Operetta LIVE!
Sunday, May 23 | 3:00pm
Central Park Pavillion
(714 S Garrison Ave, Carthage, MO)
Mozart, Verdi, Gilbert and Sullivan, Bizet and more! Heartland Opera Theatre has brought together local artists to sing some of opera’s most beloved music. Join them to hear well-recognized tunes that everyone will enjoy! Free and open to the public. More information: Emily Larson, 512.796.2553.
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Joplin Comedy:
Open Mic Comedy Night
Sundays | 9:00pm (Sign-Up 8:30pm)
Blackthorn Pizza & Pub
(510 S Joplin Ave)
Try out your latest stand-up routine or take in the acts of local comedians, all while enjoying tasty pizza from Blackthorn Pizza & Pub. Age restrictions: 18+ until 10:00pm. 21+ from 10:00pm until close. Free and open to the public. More information: Dakoda Potter, 417.540.9186.
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Connect2Culture (C2C) is unlike any organization in the Joplin area – respected community arts agency, champion of the Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, and performing arts presenter. C2C is a not-for-profit arts organization founded in 2009 to enhance community through culture. C2C strives to expand audience and resources needed to "ignite a passion for the arts, culture, and entertainment" in the Joplin area.
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