Art Around Town

Explore local arts events!

Ann Arbor and U-M have a vibrant art scene with a constant array of arts events. Check out this page for weekly recommendations of our 5 Picks of the Week that we think you shouldn’t miss and resources on how to find and attend events.

5 Picks of the Week

  • Hill Auditorium
  • February 1, 7:30 p.m.
Jazz at Lincoln Center

Since its founding more than 35 years ago, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra has simultaneously honored the rich heritage of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Louis Armstrong while presenting a stunning variety of new works from illustrious names, many of whom perform regularly with the ensemble.

Learn more!

  • Newman Studio
  • January 31 & February 1
Tick Tick... Boom!

FREE

Follow the story of Jon, an aspiring composer on the verge of turning 30, as he grapples with the pressure to create a successful musical while balancing his relationship with his girlfriend, Susan, and the growing distance from his best friend, Michael, who has chosen a more stable career path. There will be a pre-show open mic 30 minutes before the show begins!

Check it out!

  • Trotter Multipurpose Room
  • January 31, 6:00 p.m.
SYNTHESIS

FREE

Enjoy a fun night of holistic, amorphous, and magical collective creativity coming next week! This is the first event for the rebranded, DNA: The DR's Laboratory Student Organization, where all art styles come together in a communal flow!

Learn more!

  • Cahoots Cafe
  • February 4, 10:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Visionboarding

FREE

This is a visionboarding space led by Emefa Boamah in The Cove. The space will be open throughout the day for you to bring magazines + a poster board and work on setting your intentions, with a closing ceremony to share.

Check it out!

  • Hatcher Graduate Library
  • Now through March 31
A Prison, a Prisoner, and a Prison Guard

FREE

“A Prison, a Prisoner, and a Prison Guard” at Hatcher Library is a multimedia exploration of the impact of prisons on countries and communities across the MENA region through the lens of “prison art.” There will be a talkback on February 6th at 6:00 p.m..

Learn more!

[art]seen

Additional Resources

Arts Info

Sign up for Arts Info to receive weekly recommendations of arts events to check out, plus other helpful resources, student arts opportunities, and more!

Passport to the Arts

Pick up a new Passport ticket voucher every two weeks, and exchange it for a FREE or DISCOUNTED ticket to a great selection of events!

Student Ticket Deals

See a list of spots around Ann Arbor that offer discounted tickets for students.

[art]seen

Our [art]seen writers review arts events on and around campus, sharing their thoughts and experiences on live music, film screenings, dance performances, theatre productions, and art exhibitions.

Downtown Ann Arbor Walking Tour

This self-guided art tour will welcome you to the rich arts culture that the downtown area has to offer. We highlight places we think you should know about and give you some hints for fun things to spot along the way!

Calls & Auditions

View a list of opportunities aimed at students who want to share their artistic talents. Photo and design competitions, auditions, and calls for entry and more!