
The equinox is past, the weather has finally cooled a bit, and we’re in that sweet spot with both fall festivals to savor outdoors and arts events to enjoy indoors.

Theater (or is it theaTRE?) wins the week with season openers from Know to Playhouse to Cincinnati’s brilliant community theaters. Sing along with some Broadway showstoppers or settle in for the Bach B Minor. Great jazz, Lili Boulanger, a little poetry and a couple of good films round out your week.

Summer continues to rage, but the arts have no intention of letting 90-degree heat win. Stay inside with lectures and art openings. Cincinnati Pops goes to “La La Land” and Cincinnati Music Theatre gives an exam after their show. KSO finishes up outdoor offerings and Phil DeGreg provides lunchtime respite. Enjoy yourself.

This week it’s about singing, shopping and books. All of my favorite things. May Festival steps onto the risers (don’t forget dinner in WP, first) while Simon and Garfunkel take the stage in Kentucky. Langston Hughes, Harriet Beecher Stowe and some acoustic blues each have their moment. Take your pick.

It’s time to roll off the couch and stop moaning about dirty snow. There’s plenty to entice, including some interesting plays, Cajun and Latin jazz or J.S. Bach. Black History Month continues while Swan Lake takes the stage. Don’t miss the extraordinary James McMillan’s “Seven Last Words from the Cross.” Enjoy some culture and new-found warmth.

Linton Chamber Music and the CSO host works of Pulitzer Prize winners in an exciting week of diversity and thought. Martin Luther King Jr. takes his rightful place in Our Fair City, while Mother Nature is a contender for our attention. New perspectives on famous novels and some gypsy jazz complete your to-do list.