News Summary
A variety of cultural events and performances are set to take place in Bristol throughout July, highlighting community involvement. The Barter Theatre’s theme for its upcoming season will focus on family, while Theatre Bristol holds auditions for upcoming plays. The Behind the Book Festival showcases over 50 authors, and the Bristol Academy of Music presents a youth edition of ‘The Wizard of Oz.’ Additional events include health clinics, community celebrations, and exciting musical performances, underscoring the area’s commitment to enriching cultural experiences.
Bristol – A plethora of exciting events and performances highlight community engagement and cultural experiences in Bristol and the surrounding areas during July. From theatrical productions to author meet-and-greets, the upcoming weeks are packed with opportunities for entertainment and involvement.
The Barter Theatre has announced its 2025 season theme, “Family,” an inspiring focus that Artistic Producing Director Katy Brown hopes will resonate with audiences. The theater is currently showcasing the popular musical “Frozen,” running from May 24 to August 17 at the Gillam Stage, featuring uplifting themes of love, courage, and family bonds.
In the realm of theater, Theatre Bristol is holding auditions for two plays: “The Odd Couple” and “The Mockingbird Sings.” Auditions are set for July 19-23, with “The Odd Couple” taking place on July 22 & 23, leading into performances scheduled for October 3-12, with potential extensions. Meanwhile, “The Mockingbird Sings” auditions will be held on July 19-20, offering roles for men, women, and children, while its performances are slated for September 12-14 and September 17-18.
Literary and Community Events
The Behind the Book Festival will take place on July 19 at the Kingsport Public Library, featuring over 50 authors at Fort Henry Mall from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Attendees can enjoy book sales, author signings, discussion panels, and story readings for children.
Musical Showcase
The Bristol Academy of Music will present a youth edition of “The Wizard of Oz,” with performances on July 18 at 7 p.m. and July 19 at 3:30 p.m. at the Virginia High School Auditorium. Directed by Rachel Helton, the show features local students aged 8-16, showcasing their talent to the community.
Additional Attractions
Theatre Bristol is set to present the regional premiere of “Charlie & The Chocolate Factory” from July 18-20 and again from July 25-27 at Paramount Bristol. Showtimes include Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 5:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2:30 p.m.
Health services will also be accessible during this time, with the Move Mountains medical clinic offering free health services on July 18-19 at the Health Wagon campus. Additionally, the Mission of Mercy dental clinic at the University of Virginia-Wise will provide free dental services, while veterinary services will be available at the Shelcy Mullins Fairgrounds.
Community Celebrations
July 19 marks a special occasion for the Kingsport Carousel, celebrating its 10th birthday from 3-5 p.m. This event includes free rides and activities at 350 Clinchfield St. At the same time, the annual Downtown Kingsport Street Fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the same day, featuring live performances, international exhibits, and activities for children.
The Barter Theatre continues its production of “A Few Good Men,” running from June 14 to August 16, providing audiences with a gripping courtroom drama to enjoy throughout the summer.
Community involvement is further encouraged as Theatre Bristol puts out an open call for volunteers in backstage roles, emphasizing the importance of local support in the arts.
Upcoming Festivals and Jams
Exciting musical performances await audiences with the Fun Fest concert series, which will feature artists such as Tauren Wells, Bret Michaels, and Brad Paisley in the coming weeks. The Mary Draper Ingles Festival from July 25-27 in Radford will celebrate colonial history and culture, drawing attendees with its various attractions.
To wrap up the month, a Weekly Old Time Music Jam is scheduled at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park on July 27, inviting local musicians to bring their acoustic instruments and enjoy a gathering of talent and tradition.
This variety of events represents the community’s dedication to cultural enrichment and engagement, fostering connections through performance art, literature, and social services for all residents and visitors.
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Additional Resources
- WJHL News
- Wikipedia: Bristol
- Herald Courier Business
- Google Search: Barter Theatre
- Herald Courier Community
- Google Scholar: Theater Productions
- Herald Courier Community Events
- Google News: Theater Events Bristol
- Atlas Obscura: Barter Theatre
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cultural Engagement
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
