Southern Utah arts events to know: music, film and talks at Kayenta Arts
After exploring several areas of Utah, we can attest to the state’s rich arts and culture scene. This summer, Southern Utah’s arts programming reinforces this with a packed lineup of performances, film screenings, talks and cultural events at the Center for the Arts at Kayenta in Ivins.
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Here’s where to find the best summer arts programming in Southern Utah
Located near St. George amid Utah’s dramatic red rock landscape, Center for the Arts at Kayenta continues to draw travelers and locals alike with intimate performances, globally inspired artists and community-driven programming.
From classical music and documentary screenings to mindfulness talks and a month-long showcase celebrating Southern Utah creatives, Kayenta Arts’ upcoming May and June calendar offers a mix of experiences ideal for weekend travelers, culture lovers and anyone looking to add something creative to their Southern Utah itinerary.
Upcoming events at the Center for the Arts at Kayenta in 2026
Part V: Kayenta Lifestyle & Arts, 2016–2026
Sunday, May 10, 3 p.m.
Lorraine Boccardo Theater
Why it’s worth checking out: This installment of The Kayenta 100 Project offers a deeper look into how Kayenta evolved into one of Southern Utah’s most distinctive arts and lifestyle communities, blending creativity, wellness culture, culinary experiences and desert living.
The presentation explores the growth of the Kayenta Art Village and the community’s evolving identity through storytelling, archival media, open discussions and interactive experiences.
Good to know: Tickets are $20.
Why Kayenta Arts continues to stand out in Southern Utah
For travelers exploring the St. George and Ivins area, the Center for the Arts at Kayenta continues to offer a distinctly local arts experience framed by Southern Utah’s red rock landscape. Its programming blends nationally and internationally inspired performances with community-driven creative work, making it one of the region’s more unique cultural destinations heading into summer.
Classical Music: Kevin Mills & Drew Petersen
Saturday, May 16, 7:30 p.m.
Lorraine Boccardo Theater
Why it’s worth checking out: Classical music fans can expect an intimate and emotionally layered evening as accomplished cellist Kevin Mills and pianist Drew Petersen perform works by Beethoven and Brahms inside Kayenta’s theater setting.
The duo’s program, Tortured Bliss, highlights cornerstone repertoire for cello and piano, including Beethoven’s Sonata No. 2 in G Minor and Brahms’s Cello Sonata No. 1 in E Minor. A reception with the artists follows the performance.
Good to know: Tickets are $35 for adults, $25 for local artists and $12 for students.
Film Screening: Dr. Strangelove
Friday, May 22, 7:30 p.m.
Lorraine Boccardo Theater
Why it’s worth checking out: Film lovers and classic cinema fans can revisit Stanley Kubrick’s iconic Cold War satire on the big screen during this special screening at Kayenta Arts.
The 1964 film follows a chaotic chain of events after a U.S. general launches a nuclear attack on Russia, forcing political leaders to confront catastrophic consequences.
Good to know: Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students.
Voyager Lecture Series: Train the Mind, Open the Heart
Tuesday, May 26, 7:30 p.m.
Social hour begins at 6:30 p.m.
Lorraine Boccardo Theater
Why it’s worth checking out: This wellness-focused evening brings together experts from the Mindfulness Center of Southern Utah to discuss the real-world impact of mindfulness practices on emotional resilience, physical health and mental clarity.
Speakers include Dr. Ginamaria Foglia, Dr. David Tate and Kirk Benson, JD, who will explore the science and practical application behind mindfulness training.
Good to know: Tickets are $25 for adults and $12 for students.
DocUtah Presents Turtle Walker
Friday, June 5, 7:30 p.m.
Lorraine Boccardo Theater
Why it’s worth checking out: Nature documentary fans and environmental storytellers may want to add this screening to their Southern Utah summer plans. The film follows conservationist Satish Bhaskar’s groundbreaking work protecting sea turtle nesting habitats along India’s coastlines.
Part of DOCUTAH’s “Best of Fest” programming, the screening explores conservation, survival and the lasting effects of natural disasters on marine ecosystems.
Good to know: Tickets are $10.
The Leila
Saturday, June 6, 7:30 p.m.
Walton Commons Courtyard
Why it’s worth checking out: Travelers looking for global music experiences in Southern Utah can catch Moroccan singer-songwriter The Leila during an outdoor performance blending rock, soul and traditional Moroccan sounds.
Known for her commanding stage presence and themes of empowerment and self-expression, The Leila has become one of the most influential voices in the contemporary Moroccan music scene.
Good to know: This is an outdoor event with general seating in the Walton Commons Courtyard. Tickets are $35 for adults, $25 for local artists and $12 for students.
Summer Showcase returns to Kayenta Arts this June
Throughout June, Kayenta Arts will also host its annual Summer Showcase, a monthlong celebration highlighting original works from Southern Utah artists across music, theater, poetry, visual art and film.
Featured artists include Addison Kanoelani, Sara Flannery Murphy, Amanda Empey, Ashlie Chaston, Glenn Webb, Dylan Thomas Gavin and Wendy Bird Womack, among others. The showcase is funded by the Mellon Foundation.
Additional details are expected to be announced soon. To learn more, visit kayentaarts.org.
