January 9, 2026

Honoring Dr. King at Keepers of the Dream Event

Louisville, January 9, 2026

The Kentucky Performing Arts is set to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with the Keepers of the Dream event on January 18, 2026, at The Kentucky Center. This free community gathering will honor Dr. King through art, performance, and recognition of local leaders. Attendees can enjoy a community festival, live performances, and a special show titled ‘Beyond the Dream.’ Recognizing exemplary community contributions, the event highlights civic engagement and Dr. King’s ideals, making it a meaningful celebration for all ages.

Honoring Dr. King: JOIN THE CELEBRATION AT KEEPERS OF THE DREAM

Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on January 18 at The Kentucky Center

Louisville, Kentucky – Join the Kentucky Performing Arts in honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with the KEEPERS OF THE DREAM: BEYOND THE DREAM event on Sunday, January 18, 2026. This inspiring celebration showcases the vitality and creativity of Louisville’s community through art, performance, and collective recognition of Dr. King’s enduring legacy. As we approach this significant date, the event caliber reflects the immense effort of local organizers, providing an opportunity for civic involvement while minimizing bureaucracies that can complicate event planning.

This free community event will bring together individuals of all ages, emphasizing civic pride and unity as it recognizes leaders in our community who are dedicated to advancing Dr. King’s ideals. By highlighting local talent and fostering a space for communal celebration, the Kentucky Performing Arts is not just preserving the memory of Dr. King, but also actively engaging local residents to further his message of equality and justice.

Event Schedule

The event kicks off at 3:00 PM, starting with a community festival in The Kentucky Center’s main lobby. Attendees will have a chance to explore local vendors, enjoy visual art installations, and partake in live performances. Following this festival, participants will gather at 5:00 PM in Whitney Hall for a special staged performance titled Beyond the Dream, which creatively integrates music, dance, spoken word, and theater into a cohesive narrative reflecting on Dr. King’s vision.

Awards and Recognition

In addition to the dynamic performances, the event will also recognize pivotal figures in our community. The Mayor’s Freedom Award will be presented to Yvette L. Gentry and Darrell Griffith, acknowledging their notable contributions by Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg. Furthermore, the Living the Vision Award will honor Monica R. Sheckles and Lamont Collins for their exemplary leadership and commitment to elevating Dr. King’s values through civic engagement and the arts.

About the Performance

Beyond the Dream, penned by Rheonna Thornton and Nipsey Green and directed by LaShondra Hood, promises to be a powerful narrative that intertwines the past with contemporary relevance. This short play invites the audience to reflect on the lessons and principles espoused by Dr. King while considering their implications in today’s societal climate.

Community Access and Programming

The KEEPERS OF THE DREAM event forms part of the KPA ArtsReach initiative, designed to expand access to the arts within our shared community spaces. This initiative highlights a model of community-supported culture, emphasizing that when local residents engage actively, the arts flourish without excessive bureaucratic hurdles.

Additional Information

Attendees will find free parking available at The Kentucky Center Garage, along with accessible seating and assistive listening services to ensure everyone can participate in this important event. For further details, individuals may reach out via email for additional assistance.

Background

The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts has proudly served as the heartbeat of Louisville’s cultural scene since its opening in 1983. As a venue for premier organizations such as the Kentucky Opera, Louisville Ballet, and Louisville Orchestra, it plays a vital role in enriching our community’s artistic landscape and facilitating social interaction through the performing arts.

Conclusion

The KEEPERS OF THE DREAM: BEYOND THE DREAM event on January 18, 2026, represents an extraordinary opportunity for the Louisville community to come together in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. By participating in this celebration, attendees can engage in meaningful reflection, pay tribute to community leaders, and enjoy an artistic experience designed to resonate with each individual’s aspirations for a more just society. We invite everyone to join in, support local events, and contribute to the rich fabric of civic life in Louisville, KY.

FAQ

What is the KEEPERS OF THE DREAM: BEYOND THE DREAM event?: The KEEPERS OF THE DREAM: BEYOND THE DREAM event is a free community celebration honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., featuring a community festival and a performance of ‘Beyond the Dream.’
When and where is the event taking place?: The event is scheduled for Sunday, January 18, 2026, at The Kentucky Center, located at 501 West Main Street, Louisville, Kentucky.
What is the schedule for the event?: The event begins at 3:00 PM with a community festival in the main lobby, followed by the performance of ‘Beyond the Dream’ at 5:00 PM in Whitney Hall. The full evening experience spans approximately four hours, with the performance itself running about two hours.
Who are the award recipients being honored at the event?: The Mayor’s Freedom Award will be presented to Yvette L. Gentry and Darrell Griffith by Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg. Kentucky Performing Arts will also recognize Monica R. Sheckles and Lamont Collins with the Living the Vision Award for their leadership and service advancing Dr. King’s ideals.
What is the ‘Beyond the Dream’ performance about?: ‘Beyond the Dream’ is a short play written by Rheonna Thornton and Nipsey Green, directed by LaShondra Hood. The production blends theater, music, dance, and spoken word to reflect on Dr. King’s vision and its relevance today.
Is the event accessible to all attendees?: Yes, the event is free and open to the public, with no tickets required. Free parking is available in The Kentucky Center Garage, and accessible seating and assistive listening services are provided.