Vermont Arts Schedule Packs Week

A diverse slate of cultural events takes place across Vermont this week, ranging from a true-crime cocktail bar in Burlington to a ballet performance in Randolph. The schedule includes musical concerts, a comedy showcase, and an art exhibit focused on rural agriculture.

The Serial Killer Speakeasy operates at the Flynn Space in Burlington from Thursday, November 5, through Saturday, November 7. The event transforms the basement venue into a theme environment for fans of criminal history. Mixologists serve custom drinks while sharing details about the motives of notorious figures, including Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer.

Comedian Donavin Andronaco performs at the Stand Up for Shelter Showcase on Friday, November 6, at the Hyde Park Opera House. Andronaco, who won the Vermont's Funniest Comedian award last year, is part of a lineup hosted by Rickshaw Tom Hunt. The event raises funds for neighbors experiencing homelessness.

The Mad River Valley Arts Gallery in Waitsfield continues its display of the Unplowed Realities exhibit. The collection features farm animal portraits by Joan Brace O'Neal and writings by George Schenk, the founder of American Flatbread. The exhibit addresses the state of small-scale agriculture and the connection between local food systems and their communities.

Grand Kyiv Ballet presents Swan Lake: Symphony of Lights at the Chandler Center for the Arts in Randolph on Thursday, November 5. The production reimagines Tchaikovsky's work using illuminated costumes and modern lighting design. It tells the story of Odette, a princess transformed into a swan, with technological enhancements to the original narrative.

Music events include a performance by Fruit Bats at Higher Ground in South Burlington on Friday, November 6. The solo project of Eric D. Johnson, a core member of Bonny Light Horseman, features original songs from his album The Landfill. On the same day, pianist Gabriela Martinez performs at the University of Vermont's Recital Hall in Burlington as part of the Lane Series. Martinez, a fifth-generation Venezuelan artist who debuted at age 6, has played with more than 100 orchestras.

The week concludes with a Sunday, November 8, concert by the Punch Brothers at the Paramount Theatre in Rutland. The Grammy-winning group performs a set of bluegrass music characterized by complex arrangements and virtuosic instrumentation.