Okay The Drop-In Season 5 just started and we are riding high on last week’s kick-off performance from Brownout! Not only are we excited for another Drop-In summer, but we’re doubly pumped to be partnering up with KUTX 98.9, Austin’s beloved NPR music station. To get their take on Austin music and everything we’re looking forward to this summer, we caught up with Matt Reilly, Program Director for KUT & KUTX, to learn more about how he plans to Drop-In this summer.
Long Center: Welcome to Mid-Week Intermission! We usually like to ask folks for a song to go with their interview – anything come to mind? Maybe a song from an artist on The Drop-In lineup?
Matt Reilly: How about La Semilla from Superfónicos? Like a seed, this one grows on you.
LC: Speaking of — this is the first year that KUTX is partnering with the Long Center on The Drop-In! And, of course, we’re stoked. Can you talk a little about how that came to be, and why it makes sense?
Matt Reilly: You fine folks at the Long Center have always booked incredibly well for The Drop-In, and we’ve just been biding our time until you asked us to partner with you. And you did!
LC: The Drop-In is just one part of KUTX’s Wet Hot Austin Summer programming. Care to share a little more on that, and what folks can expect?
Matt Reilly: The best soundtrack to your summer in Austin, for starters. We’ll also have ticket giveaways and other events to join us in person.
LC: What’s your favorite part of the summer season at KUTX?
Matt Reilly: We really lean into all the fun that the city has to offer in the summer. If you play it right, summer in Austin can be like to going to summer camp. And we think about that as we’re putting the music together.
LC: What are you most excited about for this year’s Drop-In? Any artists you’re epecially looking forward to?
Matt Reilly: That’s like asking me to pick my favorite child. All of them, of course! I will say though, there is a healthy contingent of former KUTX Artists of the Month and we have lots more to explore on these artists at our webiste — kutx.org. See what I did there?
LC: Lightning Round ⚡ Are you a blanket or lawn chair kinda guy? Hat or sunglasses? Get there when doors open or right when the show starts? How do you Drop-In?
Matt Reilly: Lawn chair, sunglasses, right when the show starts.
LC: Do you remember the first local artist you saw in Austin? And any advice for folks who haven’t come out to The Drop-In before?
Matt Reilly: I remember seeing Alejandro Escovedo at Shady Grove, back when that series was happening many moons ago.
As for the folks that are Drop-In curious, I’d say that these are some of the best Austin artists going right now and the price really can’t be beat. Oh, and there’s a breeze so it gets quite comfortable as the sun goes down.
Thanks, Matt!
Come check out The Drop-In this summer on the H-E-B Stage, and don’t forget to stop by the KUTX tent and say hi!
And did we mention it’s FREE?
At the Long Center, we’ve always got a new partnership or something cool we know you’ll want to check out! Find and follow us @longcenter on your social media platform of choice, and we’ll see you real soon.
No store does more! H-E-B is announcing a partnership with local nonprofit the Long Center for the Performing Arts to become the title sponsor of their 3D-printed outdoor stage and recycling program. This is in line with H‑E‑B’s long-term efforts to support the communities it exists within. Together, H‑E‑B and the Long Center are making the arts more accessible for Austinites and reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.
The Long Center’s 3D-printed performance pavilion, originally unveiled during SXSW 2023, is located on the venue’s Hartman Lawn directly across Riverside Drive from Auditorium Shores. The cosmic-inspired amphitheater is the first of its kind in the world and is now crowned with a 10-foot-long, illuminated H-E-B sign. The newly-minted H-E-B Stage was unveiled last night in front of thousands at the kick-off of the Long Center’s free summer concert series, The Drop-In, which in its fifth year has become one of Austin’s most beloved summer traditions.
“Our collaboration with the Long Center enables many events to be offered at low or no cost to attendees, making high-quality cultural performances and programs available to a diverse audience,” said Rob Pennington, H-E-B’s Sr. Director of Marketing. “It is an honor for us to play a small role in something that brings joy and excitement to Austinites, and we look forward to continuing our support for many years to come.”
Accessibility to the arts is a shared value of H-E-B and the Long Center. This partnership helps support multiple community programs, including The Drop In – which runs every Thursday all summer long and is open to all ages and dogs (free ticket RSVPs open every Monday at 10 a.m. at LongCenter.org).
“As we set our sights on the future of Austin and the future of the Long Center, we are proud to announce this renewed and expanded partnership with an iconic Texas brand, H-E-B – a company that shares our commitment to supporting Texas communities and enriching lives through access to the arts, education, and local culture,” said Cory Baker, President & CEO of the Long Center. “H-E-B has long been a champion of initiatives that bring people together, and their support helps ensure the Long Center remains a vibrant, welcoming space for all Austinites.”
In addition to stage naming rights, H-E-B will also now be title sponsor for all Long Center recycling efforts, continuing the building’s sustainable origins and elevating the venue’s efforts in becoming a more green organization. Originally opened in 2008, the Long Center was created using an impressive 95% recycled materials from the pre-existing Palmer Municipal Auditorium, granting it LEED Gold certification at the time of its opening. The partnership allows for additional recycling bins to be placed throughout the Long Center, now branded with H-E-B to reflect their support, creating more accessibility for audiences to take part in the venue’s green initiatives. In addition to the recycling efforts, H-E-B has made a commitment to partner with the Long Center on future sustainability initiatives. In short, H-E-B and the Long Center are working together to celebrate the arts, unite the community, and protect the planet.
“H-E-B is committed to supporting nonprofit organizations, such as the Long Center, with the mission to expand educational programs and provide equal access to the arts through programs like Long Reach for the Arts, which provides K-12 students in AISD and other Central Texas school districts with unique arts experiences and events such as The Drop-In, Teresa Lozano Long Community Day, Santa on the Terrace, and BubblePalooza,” said Heidi Anderson, H-E-B’s Sr. Director of Public Affairs.
Austinites can further support the Long Center’s efforts by becoming a Long Center Member. For more information about these events, visit thelongcenter.org.
ABOUT H-E-B
H-E-B, with sales of more than $46 billion, operates over 435 stores in Texas and Mexico. Known for its innovation and community service, H-E-B celebrates its 120th anniversary this year. Recognized for its fresh food, quality products, convenient services, and a commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability, H-E-B strives to provide the best customer experience and low prices. Based in San Antonio, H-E-B employs over 160,000 Partners in Texas and Mexico and serves millions of customers in more than 300 communities. For more information, visit heb.com and the H-E-B Newsroom.
ABOUT THE LONG CENTER
Uniquely facing the city skyline, the Long Center is an iconic cultural hub and community gathering place – a reflection of Austin’s eclectic and creative soul. Built in 2008 and with a local history that spans many more generations, the Long Center is dedicated to fueling community through creativity, elevating Austin’s creative sector, and connecting communities near and far through creative discovery. For more information about the Long Center, please visit thelongcenter.org or follow on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.
All photos by Brynn Osborn @ The Drop-In featuring Brownout
The Drop-In 2025 lineup is out and it’s no surprise that we have some opinions in the house! At the LC, we’re a collection of superfans, ride-or-dies, and intense consumers of Austin’s creative arts scene, so when we asked for Drop-In ‘hot picks,’ the team certainly delivered. Check out what they had to say about this stellar lineup (spoiler: we like them all) and start putting together your own can’t-miss, won’t-miss list.
Special Mention: There was someone who just couldn’t choose, so he made a radio show about it instead. If you didn’t catch Saturday’s My KUTX on KUTX 98.9 with our own Bobby Garza, Chief Program Officer, then you really missed out! Just kidding — if a curated playlist with a personal touch is what you’re looking for, Bobby really delivered. Listen here and mark your favorites (or, you know, just plan to see them all ✨)
WE ASKED:
The whole lineup is solid, but who are you most excited to Drop-In this summer?
Matt from Programming
// Chicoselfie
The band combines classic elements of Latin rhythms, pop, and rock with flares and nods to the faves we all know and love like Caifanes, Mana & Café Tacvba.
A wonderful Austin take and some great songwriting makes this my pick not to miss.
Leslie from Box Office
// Brownout
// Superfónicos
// Andrew Cashen
I can’t wait to see Brownout and Superfónicos! Anything that Adrian Quesada does is a fun time.
And the enigmatic Andrew Cashen is always an exciting experience for all!
Such a great lineup to attend on Thursdays, all summer long.
Katie from Marketing
// Next of Kin
I loved Flora and Fawna who played The Drop-In a few years ago, so when I saw Lili Hickman’s new band Next of Kin was playing this year, I knew that was going to be one I couldn’t miss. Love their energy and those harmonies are insane! It’s going to be such a vibe for a summer Austin night on the lawn!
Dallas from Programming
// The Point.
I think I have an algorithm to thank for putting these guys on my radar.
A driving beat selling a groove that you can’t help but nod your head or shake your booty to.
The band itself, comprised of the perfect combination of youthful zeal and a steady experienced hand keeping tempo, all with a great ear in the studio with Beto Martinez producing, demands attention and proved the point that Austin’s music scene is alive and kicking.
Dana from Programming
// L.C. Franke
I’m looking forward to L.C. Franke classing up the lawn with some tortured torch songs!
Kelsey from HR
// Pelvis Wrestley
I watched Pelvis Wrestley play years ago at a dive bar and the place just came alive! So looking forward to seeing them live again on our stage!
Maria from Community Programs
// Starflake
I’m most excited to see Starflake! Starflake is a 2024 Austin Live Music Fund awardee, and their music makes me want to dance!!
Jordyn from Marketing
// Nané ft. Quentin Arispe
The outdoor stage is the perfect setting for Nané and Quentin Arispe. They both have such a great vibe and energy, and their music sounds the way a hot summer night on the lawn feels.
Riley from Programming
// The Point.
// Next of Kin
I mixed songs for both bands at this year’s Sonic Guild Ball and I was immediately blown away by their sound! Next of Kin’s vocal harmonies and The Point.’s vibey, groovy rhythms are something you should experience.
Jordan from Box Office
// All of them
I’m not familiar with any of the bands because I’m new to town. I’m so excited to experience them all as both a staff member and a new Austinite. From what I’ve heard, we are in for a treat, and I can’t wait to find my new favorite local musician!
And there’s so much more where this came from! You can’t go wrong with any Drop-In, and that’s our favorite thing about it. Make sure you’re signed up to get RSVP alerts on Mondays (remember, it’s free) and we’ll see you there! Oh, also keep an eye out on @longcenter for Friday artist reveals.
At the Long Center, we’ve always got a new partnership or something cool we know you’ll want to check out! Find and follow us @longcenter on your social media platform of choice, and we’ll see you real soon.
At the Long Center, we’re all about saying our thank yous, especially to those who help make everything we do possible. Because as a non-profit, we’re only as good as our supporters!
This is what the Icon Awards are all about. Last week, we gathered our closest friends on the Meredith Stage in the fabulous Dell Hall, witnessed some incredible performances by Austin artists, and said thank you and honored those in the community who have gone above and beyond to support not only the LC mission, but have helped make arts and culture in Austin a reality for communities across town.
And this year, one of the awards goes to one of our community supporters who’s been there since the beginning, Baylor Scott & White Health.
The Icon Awards honor those who have an outstanding commitment to the arts in Austin, and for Baylor Scott & White they know just as medicine treats the body, music and arts have the power to reach the heart and lift the spirit.
BSW 🤝 LC
This healthcare system isn’t just about bringing medical care to Texans all across the state. Their goal is to treat the whole person, and they know that creating opportunities and spaces for performing art is a way to soothe, connect and honor the emotional and spiritual aspects of healing.
Having been a supporter of the arts in Austin for over fifteen years, they’ve been a key collaborator in the Long Center’s shows and community events since the early days (you’ve probably noticed their name here and there or even picked up a stress ball or two 😉). From a recital by renowned violinist Joshua Bell to our inaugural Community Day, Baylor Scott & White has played a major role in making what we do a reality.
Baylor Scott & White extends their care beyond physical health – they emphasize creating wellness in all individuals, families, and communities. This includes promoting an environment where arts and culture can thrive in Austin – because as we all know at the Long Center, the arts are essential.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
And their support goes even further than the LC. A non-profit themselves, Baylor Scott & White reinvests back into the community. Over the past year alone, Baylor Scott & White has provided outreach and support to TONS of non-profits, schools, and local organizations, impacting countless folks in the Austin community.
From serving as the medical team at the Statesman Cap10k, Texas’s largest 10k race, to their Teddy Bear Clinics, which puts medical experiences in a friendlier light for kiddos by performing check-ups on their stuffies, (and not to mention their countless free screenings, educational health seminars, and wellness events) Baylor Scott & White has created a tangible, positive difference in the Austin region.
We’re beyond grateful to have a supporter as community-centric and dedicated to serving Austinites as Baylor Scott & White on our team. They’ve been with us since day one, cheering us on, showing up for the community, and helping make the arts happen all over Austin. That’s why it’s a no-brainer that they’re one of this year’s honorees.
Thank you, Baylor Scott & White, for being such an Icon to us! 😊
WE CAN’T FORGET OUR SPONSORS
Of course, a huge thank you to all of our sponsors who have supported the 2025 Icon Awards 👏👏
GOLD SPONSOR
- Tom & Armanita Sellers
- Craig & Felicia Hester
SILVER SPONSOR
- Amber Bradbury & Google
- Baylor Scott & White Health
- Kelly Hart & Hallman
- Jare Smith
- The University of Texas System
- The Long Foundation
- The Butler School of Music
BRONZE SPONSOR
- Borgelt LawCivilitude
- H-E-B
- Oak View Group
- Teresa Lozano Long Institute of Latin American Studies at the University of Texas, Pamela M. Giblin, and Janet Roberts
And special thanks to the Founding Resident Companies of the Long Center — Austin Opera, Austin Symphony Orchestra, and Ballet Austin!
If you’re all-in on the arts now (just kidding, we know you already were), come and see us! There’s so much more you can do at the Long Center than just see a show, but we have plenty of those, too. Check out our calendar, think about volunteering, read more from other community creatives, or see what Membership at the LC is all about.
At the Long Center, we’ve always got a new partnership or something cool we know you’ll want to check out! Find and follow us @longcenter on your social media platform of choice, and we’ll see you real soon.
