
Cultural Calendar: What's Happening Now Through Winter
From Tony Award-winning Broadway shows to world-class art exhibitions—your insider guide to Palm Beach County's most sophisticated cultural experiences happening right now
The Palm Beach County cultural season is in full swing, and our team has been busy securing tickets and insider access to the most compelling performances and exhibitions. Whether you're planning this weekend or looking ahead to the holidays, we've curated the essential cultural experiences that define sophistication in South Florida.
From Broadway blockbusters at the Kravis Center to cutting-edge art exhibitions, these are the events that cultural insiders won't miss—and neither should you.
— The Palm Beach Locals Team

🎭 The Wiz - Tony Award-Winning Revival
Happening NOW • October 21-26, 2025 • Kravis Center
What Makes This Unmissable:
The Tony Award-winning revival that took Broadway by storm is now in West Palm Beach for just six performances. This isn't your childhood Wizard of Oz—it's a groundbreaking musical experience featuring soul, gospel, rock and 70s funk. With direction by Schele Williams and choreography by JaQuel Knight (Beyoncé's "Single Ladies"), this production redefines what Broadway can be.
Performance Schedule:
October 21-26, 2025 at the Kravis Center Dreyfoos Hall. Evening performances Tuesday-Saturday at 7:30 PM, with weekend matinees Saturday-Sunday at 2:00 PM. The Chicago Sun-Times calls it "An eye-popping and high-intensity revival!" with "powerhouse performances" and "stunning choreography."
What to Expect:
This contemporary twist on Dorothy's journey features an iconic score that changed Broadway history. The production blends ballet, jazz, and modern dance with visionary sets and costumes. Additional material by Emmy-nominated writer Amber Ruffin adds fresh wit to this timeless story about finding your place in the world.
💡 Insider Tip:
This is the final week—tickets are moving fast for this limited engagement. Our team recommends evening performances for the full impact of the lighting design. Arrive early to explore the Kravis Center's pre-show dining options, and consider valet parking ($12) for the most seamless experience during this busy cultural week.
📍 Event Details:
Venue: Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts
Address: 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Phone: (561) 832-7469
Performances: October 21-26, 2025
Evening Shows: Tue-Sat 7:30 PM
Matinees: Sat-Sun 2:00 PM
⚠️ Limited Engagement - Final Week!

🎨 "Fiber Optics" Contemporary Art Exhibition
Opening Reception • November 6, 2025 • Cultural Council Gallery
Breaking New Ground:
This groundbreaking exhibition celebrates contemporary fiber art and the visionary artists who use thread, textile, and technique as their primary medium. "Fiber Optics" brings together artists pushing the boundaries of fiber-based art—spinning bold ideas while highlighting the precision, patience, and expressive potential embedded in fiber practices.
Exhibition Highlights:
Opening Reception: November 6, 2025, 5:30-7:30 PM (RSVP required). The exhibition runs through January 3, 2026, featuring innovative works that challenge traditional perceptions of textile art. This is cutting-edge contemporary art that happens to use fiber—not traditional crafts, but museum-quality installations and sculptures.
Why It's Essential:
Fiber art is having a major moment in contemporary galleries worldwide, with artists using textiles to address everything from social justice to environmental concerns. The Cultural Council for Palm Beach County continues to position itself as a forward-thinking institution, bringing nationally relevant contemporary art to our sophisticated local audience.
💡 Insider Tip:
The opening reception is typically the most rewarding way to experience Cultural Council exhibitions—you'll meet the artists, hear curatorial insights, and connect with other serious art enthusiasts. RSVP early as these events often reach capacity. The Cultural Council gallery offers a more intimate setting than larger museums, perfect for close examination of intricate fiber work.
📍 Exhibition Details:
Venue: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County
Address: 601 Lake Ave, Lake Worth Beach, FL 33460
Opening Reception: November 6, 2025, 5:30-7:30 PM
Exhibition Dates: November 7, 2025 - January 3, 2026
Gallery Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10 AM-5 PM
Admission: Free (RSVP required for opening reception)
🎭 Part of Palm Beach County's Cultural Capital programming

🏆 Kimberly Akimbo - 5 Tony Award Winner
November 11-16, 2025 • Kravis Center • West Palm Beach Premiere
The Critics' Darling:
Winner of 5 Tony Awards including Best Musical, Kimberly Akimbo tells the hilarious and heartwarming story of a 16-year-old girl with a rare genetic condition navigating life in suburban New Jersey. The New Yorker calls it "a howlingly funny heartbreaker," while The New York Times praises its "perfect balance of comedy and poignancy."
What Makes It Extraordinary:
This isn't typical Broadway fare—it's sophisticated storytelling with music and lyrics by Jeanine Tesori and David Lindsay-Abaire. The show masterfully balances humor with genuine emotion, exploring themes of family, friendship, and making the most of whatever time we have. It's the kind of nuanced theater that sophisticated audiences crave.
Perfect for Palm Beach Audiences:
This is intelligent musical theater that doesn't rely on spectacle—it succeeds through exceptional writing, performances, and emotional authenticity. For audiences who appreciate shows like "Next to Normal" or "Fun Home," Kimberly Akimbo offers that same level of artistic sophistication with more humor and heart.
💡 Insider Tip:
This intimate musical works particularly well in the Kravis Center's Dreyfoos Hall—the emotional nuance comes through beautifully. Book mid-week performances for a more relaxed experience, or weekend matinees for the full appreciation of the musical's delicate humor. Our team recommends sitting orchestra level for optimal connection to the performances.
📍 Performance Details:
Venue: Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts
Address: 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Phone: (561) 832-7469
Performance Dates: November 11-16, 2025
Schedule: Evening shows Tue-Sat 7:30 PM, Matinees Sat-Sun 2:00 PM
Runtime: Approximately 2 hours including intermission
🏆 5 Tony Awards • Best Musical • Critics' Choice

🎪 'Twas the Night Before... by Cirque du Soleil
November 20-30, 2025 • Kravis Center • First Holiday Show by Cirque
Cirque's Holiday Debut:
For the first time in Cirque du Soleil's legendary history, they're presenting a holiday show. "'Twas the Night Before..." is based on the classic poem "A Visit from Saint Nicolas" by Clement Clarke Moore, reimagined through Cirque's signature lens of breathtaking acrobatics, theatrical storytelling, and musical innovation.
A Festive Flurry of Wonder:
The story follows a jaded young girl who rediscovers the magic of the holidays through thrilling acrobatics, lovable characters, and a soundtrack featuring reimagined holiday classics. Conceived and directed by Cirque du Soleil Senior Artistic Director James Hadley, this is specifically created for families while maintaining Cirque's sophisticated artistry.
Holiday Entertainment Excellence:
Running through the Thanksgiving weekend and up to the holidays, this show offers sophisticated families an alternative to traditional holiday programming. It's Cirque du Soleil quality with holiday warmth—perfect for entertaining visiting relatives or creating new seasonal traditions with discerning taste.
💡 Insider Tip:
This ten-day run during Thanksgiving week makes it perfect for entertaining out-of-town guests or creating memorable holiday experiences with family. Matinee performances work well for multi-generational audiences, while evening shows offer the full magical atmosphere. Book early—Cirque du Soleil performances typically sell out, especially during holiday periods.
📍 Show Details:
Venue: Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts
Address: 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Phone: (561) 832-7469
Show Dates: November 20-30, 2025
Performance Times: Various showtimes throughout the 10-day engagement
Duration: Approximately 2 hours including intermission
🎭 Cirque du Soleil's First Holiday Show • Family-Friendly • Limited Engagement

🏛️ Norton Museum of Art - Art After Dark
Every Friday 10 AM-10 PM • West Palm Beach • World-Class Collections
After Hours Cultural Sophistication:
Every Friday night, the Norton Museum extends hours until 10 PM for "Art After Dark"—the perfect way to experience world-class art in a more intimate, sophisticated atmosphere. With over 8,200 works spanning European masters, American contemporary, Chinese art, and photography, the Norton has become Florida's largest museum and a cultural cornerstone of Palm Beach County.
Current Must-See Exhibitions:
Multiple special exhibitions are currently on view through early 2026, including contemporary installations and traveling exhibitions. The museum's permanent collection features works by Jackson Pollock, Stuart Davis, and an exceptional Chinese art collection. The sculpture garden and "museum in a garden" concept make this a uniquely beautiful cultural destination.
Perfect for Sophisticated Evenings:
Friday evening visits offer a more contemplative experience with smaller crowds and stunning natural light during sunset hours. The museum's restaurant provides excellent dining options, making it easy to combine dinner with cultural exploration. It's the ideal way to start a weekend or enjoy a sophisticated date night in West Palm Beach.
💡 Insider Tip:
Arrive between 6-7 PM for optimal lighting in the galleries and sculpture garden. The museum's restaurant is excellent for dinner before or after your visit. Free parking is available, and the location is easily accessible from both I-95 and the downtown West Palm Beach area. Consider membership if you plan multiple visits—benefits include exhibition previews and special events.
📍 Museum Information:
Address: 1450 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Phone: (561) 832-5196
Art After Dark: Every Friday 10 AM-10 PM
Regular Hours: Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat 10 AM-5 PM • Sun 11 AM-5 PM
Closed: Tuesdays
Website: norton.org
🎨 Florida's Largest Museum • World-Class Collections • Free Parking
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Coming Soon:
• Exclusive photos from our cultural event research
• Local event highlights and insider access
• Community favorites and reader recommendations
🎭 Share Your Cultural Discoveries
Discovered an amazing exhibition we should feature? Have insider tips about cultural events? Our team loves hearing from fellow Palm Beach County culture enthusiasts who know the area's hidden artistic gems.
Thanks for being part of the Palm Beach Locals community!
— The Palm Beach Locals Team
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