The abilities of art are endless. It can teach, inspire, challenge, and in the case of local organization Artists Creating Together (ACT), it can heal. ACT has been bringing art to children, youth and adults with disabilities since 1986 and is the largest organization of its kind in Michigan.

There's no hero more unlikely than the Wicked Witch of the West, who is arguably one of the most epic villains ever. This iconic baddie arrives at the Miller Auditorium to tell her TRUE story in the smash hit musical Wicked, Broadway's highest-grossing show for an unprecedented eight consecutive years.

For years, Broadway Grand Rapids has given us New York-quality shows right in Grand Rapids. The company's 2012-2013 season – announced today – shows the commitment to quality and buzz-worthy shows.

Graphic design gives shape to the thousands of messages we encounter every day — from soup can labels to your favorite online news source. A genre that often goes overlooked in the art world is getting this special treatment this month in a collaborative exhibition between two well-established Grand Rapids arts institutions.

If there's one word that does not describe Miller Auditorium's production ofAmerican Idiot, it's 'low-key.' Since its debut in 2009, the punk-rock stage musical has delighted and offended audiences alike with its rebellious music, outrageous lyrics and defiant spirit.

The award-winning professional theatre Mason Street Warehouse kicks off its 11th season at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts (400 Culver St., Saugatuck) on June 21 with the musical comedy Xanadu. Forbidden love takes a whole new spin when Greek goddess meets mortal artist during the disco era—roller disco at that.

One of opera's biggest bad boys seduces the stage in Opera Grand Rapids' production of Mozart's masterpiece, Don Giovanni. Black humor and sexual energy blend in this dark tale of a flagrant womanizer who stands defiant even in the face of hell.

Avenue of the Arts newbie Gaspard Gallery has definitely hit the ground running. The artist-run gallery, which held its first exhibit during the 2012 ArtPrize competition, has been host to some stunning photography exhibits that exude a sophistication seldom seen in galleries just starting out.

The inspiring story of an unlikely dream steals the stage at Wharton Center with Billy Elliot, winner of 10 Tony Awards. Based on the 2000 film, the show focuses on aspiring ballet dancer Billy, an eleven-year-old diamond in the rough.

Street art has been making headlines near and afar lately, from the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles' groundbreaking exhibit to a few Gerald R. Ford stencils causing a rouse for Grand Rapids city officials.