Re-committing to the arts: Let's celebrate the vibrancy of Louisville

On the job for less than three months, it has not taken me long to recognize one undeniable truth: Metro Louisville’s arts scene is one of the richest and most vibrant of any city of its size in the country.

As we (sadly) say goodbye to summer, I’m excited to experience my first autumn as editor of the Courier Journal and courierjournal.com. Yes, there are plenty of football games to catch at Cardinal Stadium and local high schools, but there’s also a new season of performances from the various cultural groups that define our city’s arts scene.

This week we’re showcasing the Louisville Ballet. Celebrating its 66th year, the state ballet of Kentucky performs for more than 50,000 people annually and is considered in arts circles as one of the country’s most daring and creative companies.

A season of love:Inside Louisville Ballet's love story for the city

In the weeks ahead, our “Arts” section, appearing in Sunday’s print edition and showcased on courierjournal.com, will spotlight other influential performers, organizations, companies, troupes and theaters. You’ll instantly recognize many of the names. But in some weeks, we will introduce you to up-and-coming or new-to-Louisville arts-related groups that contribute to our cultural mix.

Louisville’s arts scene also means big bucks. It’s estimated our A&E “industry” has an economic ripple effect in the region of more than $450 million, providing jobs to thousands — from bartenders and waiters to parking garage operators, musicians and the performers themselves.

As we continue to make improvements in our print editions and digital offerings, know that we’re re-committing to a celebration of Louisville’s arts and cultural scenes. As a bonus: Don’t forget to check out photos and videos of those groups we profile at www.courierjournal.com.

Have arts-related story ideas? Don’t hesitate to contact our Lifestyles Editor Kathryn Gregory at kgregory@courierjournal.com.

Hope to see you at the theater, and thanks for reading the Courier Journal and courierjournal.com.

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Editor Rick Green can be reached at rgreen@courier-journal.com or 502-582-4642.