The Best Theatre, Dance, Films and More to See in Austin This Fall
All the touching films, emotive dance, and spooky shows you should see this season
Fall is on its way, even if the sweat on your brow doesn’t show it. Get excited for cozy season and all the spooky fun it brings with our list of the best theatre, dance, films and more to see from now through November. From Cirque du Soleil’s high-flying spectacle to a world-class film festival, this season offers something for every kind of theatergoer. Whether you’re after nostalgia, family-friendly fun, or something a little haunting, here are the can’t-miss shows to catch before winter rolls in.
“OVO” by Cirque du Soleil
Oct. 9-12, Moody Center, $62-$209
Cirque du Soleil’s “OVO” transforms the insect world into a vivid, acrobatic spectacle. Through intricate movement and playful choreography, the show captures the rhythm and wonder of life beneath our feet. Reimagined in 2024 for its 15th anniversary, “OVO” uses the symbol of an egg—“ovo” in Portuguese—to explore curiosity, connection and renewal within a vibrant ecosystem.
“Sugar Skull! A Día de Muertos Musical Adventure!”
Oct. 13, Paramount Theatre, $18-$35.
The family-friendly show from Rhythm of the Arts follows 12-year-old Vita Flores, who embarks on a colorful journey guided by a candy skeleton to uncover the meaning of Día de Muertos. Featuring lively music, dance and Mexican folklore, the musical celebrates family, tradition and the power of remembrance.
“Star Wars: Return of the Jedi” in Concert
Oct. 17–18, Long Center, $39–$137.
In an auditorium not that far away at all, treat yourself to composer John Williams’ legendary music performed live by the Austin Symphony. Experience the 1983 film in a brand-new way as a full orchestra plays the soundtrack to our intergalactic heroes’ quest. Buy a ticket, or don’t…there is no try.
“The Outsiders”
Oct 21-26, Bass Concert Hall, $48-$216.
The 2024 Tony Award-winning musical “The Outsiders” arrives at Bass Concert Hall this season, presented by Texas Performing Arts as part of the Broadway in Austin series. Adapted from S.E. Hinton’s beloved 1967 novel and Francis Ford Coppola’s film, the production reimagines the coming-of-age classic through a stirring rock-folk score by Jamestown Revival’s Jonathan Clay and Zach Chance with Justin Levine.
Austin Film Festival
Oct. 23-30, Various theatres in Austin, $20-$775
The 32nd annual Austin Film Festival returns Oct. 23–30 with 183 films from 32 countries, spanning indie discoveries to major premieres at the Paramount, State and Bullock IMAX theaters. Running alongside the screenings, the Writers Conference (Oct. 23–26) offers panels, workshops and networking for screenwriters and film lovers alike. Individual marquee tickets are $20, and Film Passes for all screenings are $85 at their website.
World Ballet Company presents “Cinderella”
Nov. 4, Bass Concert Hall, $46.80-$142.80
World Ballet Company brings “Cinderella” to Bass Concert Hall this fall, staging the classic tale through intricate choreography and vivid storytelling. Forty dancers from around the world take on the familiar roles—stepsisters, fairy godmother and all—in a production that balances humor and elegance while tracing the fleeting magic of midnight.
“The 4th Witch” by Manual Cinema
Nov. 15, McCullough Theatre
Emmy Award-winning troupe Manual Cinema brings a striking reimagining of Shakespeare’s Macbeth to the stage, told through hand-cut shadow puppetry, live silhouettes and an original score. The production reframes the tragedy as the story of a young girl orphaned by war and taken in by a witch who teaches her the dark arts. Her pursuit of revenge blurs the line between grief and power, creating a haunting meditation on fate and transformation.