Arts & Entertainment

February 2009
21404

ART

Alvin Ailey Dance TheaterAnn Arbor Art Center: In Probing the Matter of Substance, artists Jung Yeon Choi, Helen Gotlib, and Mary Penn, through sculptures, drawings, and paintings, explore the many mediums of the organic world. Through Feb. 15. 117 W. Liberty, Ann Arbor; 734-994-8004; annarborartcenter.org.

Art Gallery of Windsor (AGW): A representation of early abstract Canadian art is exhibited in Kathleen Munn and Lowrie Warrener:
The Logic of Nature, the Romance of Space, through Feb. 15.

Art for Canada: An Illustrated History is an ongoing exhibition. $3; members free. 401 Riverside Drive West, Windsor, Ontario; 519-977-0013; agw.ca.

Community Arts: 2009 WSU MFA Thesis Exhibition runs through Feb. 13.

2009 WSU MA Exhibition Feb. 27- April 3, with an opening reception 5-8 p.m., Feb. 27. 150 Community Arts Building, Detroit, 313-577-2423.

Cranbrook Art Museum: Using videos, photos, and sculptures, Mixed Signals: Artists Consider Masculinity in Sports deconstructs American male athletic imagery. Feb. 1-March 29.

In Superheroes in Action, artist Mark Newport knits life-size superhero costumes as he questions traditional views of masculinity. Admission $10 adults; $4 students and teens; free for members and children under 12. 39221 Woodward, Bloomfield Hills; 877-462-7262; cranbrookart.edu.

Detroit Artists Market: The late Hughie Lee-Smith was regarded as a prominent painter who grew famous for his surreal depictions of urban decay. Feb. 6-27. 4719 Woodward, Detroit; 313-832-8540.

Detroit Institute of Arts: In the Company of Artists: Photographs from the DIA’s Collection allows viewers to experience the lives and stories of creative people through revealing photographs by André Kertész, Man Ray, Yousuf Karsh, Arnold Newman, Robert Mapplethorpe, and others. Through Feb 15. • Master Pieces: Chess Sets from the Dr. George and Vivian Dean Collection includes two dozen chess sets featuring an array of materials and designs from Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the United States, through March 22. Admission $8 adults;
$4 ages 6-17;
 $6 seniors. Wed., Thur.: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri.: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat.-Sun.: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Mon.-Tue. 5200 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-7900; dia.org.

Elaine L. Jacob: Spatial Effects: New Digital Art runs through April 3. On the campus of Wayne State University, 480 W. Hancock, Detroit; 313-993-7813.555: Thursday’s View offers a new featured artist each week in the First Floor Gallery, 7-10 p.m. Thur. and Fri.; 12-5 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 4884 Grand River, Detroit; 555arts.org.

Forum: This student-run gallery offers an opening every week of the Cranbrook Academy of Art’s academic year. Graduate students present work to their peers and the community. From 5-9 on Friday nights. Free. On the Cranbrook campus, New Studios Building, 39221 Woodward, Bloomfield Hills; 877-462-7262; cranbrookart.edu.

Gallery Project: Change runs through March 3.  215 S. Fourth, Ann Arbor; 734-997-7012.

Lawrence Street: Celebrating the diversity of the figure in media and form, 2009 The Body Eclectic is a juried competition and exhibition. Feb. 4-27, with an opening reception 6-9 p.m., Feb. 6. 22620 Woodward, Ferndale; 248-544-0394.

Oakland University Art Gallery: Michigan ceramic artist Jae Won Lee presents Internal Distance(s), which includes four bodies of work. Through Feb. 22. 2200 N. Squirrel Rd., Rochester; 248-370-2100.

Paint Creek Center for the Arts (PCCA): Norwood Viviano and Sara Lindley Exhibit runs Feb. 27-April 4, with an opening reception Feb. 27. • Taurus Burns Exhibit runs Feb. 27-April 4, with an opening reception Feb. 27. 407 Pine St.; 248-651-4110; pccart.org.

Pewabic Pottery:  Starting a Hare in Ceramics features the works of Kelly Connole, Cynthia Consentino, Elissa Armstrong, Jason Walker, Ayumi Horie, Wesley Harvey, Ann Roberts, Max Lehman, and Caroline Douglas. The exhibit demonstrates the various ways in which the rabbit or the hare has been depicted in the world’s literature, religion, and art. Through March 15. 10125 Jefferson, Detroit;313-822-0954; pewabic.org.

Sherry Washington Gallery: Self-described as “an improvisationalist,” artist Richard Mayhew presents Melodies: New Drawings and Paintings Feb. 14-April 11. 1274 Library, Detroit; 313-961-4500; sherrywashingtongallery.com.

Susanne Hilberry Gallery: A group show includes artists Zak Prekop, Elena Pankova, Ryan McLaughlin, Michael Wetzel, Matt Conors, and Paul Bloodgood. Through Feb. 7. 700 Livernois, Ferndale; 248-541-4700.

 

CLASSICAL

Chamber Music Society of Detroit: The ATOS Trio performs pieces by Haydn, Hob, Bloch, Schubert, and Beethoven. 8 p.m. Feb. 7. $25-$75. Seligman Performing Arts Center, 22305 W. 13 Mile Rd., Beverly Hills; 248-855-6070; comehearcmsd.org.

Cranbrook Music Guild: The rising piano trio and recipients of the Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson International Trio Award in 2005, Trio con Brio Copenhagen performs. 8 p.m. Feb. 27. $30. 470 Church Rd., Bloomfield Hills; 248-645-0037;cranbrookemusicguild.org.

Detroit Symphony Orchestra: Kristine Jepson, mezzo-soprano, and John Treleavan, tenor, join the orchestra and conductor James Conlon for one of Mahler’s last pieces, Das Lied von der Erde. Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 1, which the composer wrote when he was just 15 — is also on the program. Feb. 6-8.

To continue the DSO’s Beethoven survey, Grammy-nominee pianist Horacio Gutiérrez performs the Piano Concerto No.4, followed by Strauss’ autobiographical tone poem Ein Heldenleben. Rafael Frühbeck de Burgos conducts. Feb. 19-21. • Returning with three favorites of the Baroque era, Nicholas Kramer conducts Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 1 and Concerto for Two Violins, followed by Handel’s Water Music. Feb. 26-28. $19-$123. Orchestra Hall in the Max M. Fisher Music Center, 3711 Woodward, Detroit; 313-576-5111; detroitsymphony.com.

Sphinx Finals Concert: Senior Division Finalists perform with the black and Latino Sphinx Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Detroit native Damon Gupton. 2 p.m. Feb. 1. $12. Orchestra Hall in the Max M. Fisher Music Center, 3711 Woodward, Detroit; 313-576-5111.  University Musical Society: Tenor and bel canto specialist Lawrence Brownlee first appeared at UMS three years ago in a concert version of Rossini’s Tancredi. He returns with pianist Martin Katz for songs and arias of Rossini, as well as various French and Italian songs. 8 p.m. Feb. 7. $10-$50. Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-763-3333.

 

DANCE

Detroit Opera House: Fifty years ago, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater forever altered modern American dance, and the troupe continues its art today. Feb. 12-15. $25-$72.

With extraordinary costuming and scenery and puppetry to wow any child, The Grand Rapids Ballet Company performs its rendition of Aladdin. Noon and 5 p.m. Feb 28. $12-$47. 1526 Broadway, Detroit; 313-961-3500.

Music Hall: In its sixth original production, Cirque Eloize brings together a stunning combination of circus arts, dance, music, and theater. Feb. 27-
March 1. $27-47. 350 Madison, Detroit; 313-887-8500; musichall.org.

Orchestra Hall: The National Acrobats of China fill their performance with stunning acrobatics, tumbling, and juggling. 3 p.m. Feb. 22. $19-$40. 3711 Woodward, Detroit; 313-576-5100.

The Palace of Auburn Hills: It’s been more than a decade since the world was introduced to Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance. The mythical Irish folklore brings about a passionate dance of love and battle, set to the rhythms of modern and traditional Celtic music. 2 p.m. Feb.15 $19.50-$49.50. 5 Championship Dr, Auburn Hills; 248-377-0100.

University Musical Society: Their last UMS performance was in 1998, and the Batsheva Dance Company revisits with artistic director Ohad Naharin’s sensual and adrenaline-fused dances. Naharin’s Three tests the force and passion of each dancer, while Deca Dance unites the thrills of existing works. Feb. 14-15. $18-$42. Power Center, 121 Fletcher, Ann Arbor; 724-763-3333.

 

EVENTS

Friends of the Freer House: Kenneth Myers, curator of American art at the Detroit Institute of Arts, speaks on Pretty Women: Freer and Feminine Beauty at the Charles Lang Freer house. Freer, a Detroit industrialist turned art collector, left his vast collection of American, Asian, and Middle Eastern art to the Smithsonian Institution, home to the Freer Gallery of Art, in Washington, D.C. Tours of the Shingle-style home, built in the early 1890s, are included after the lecture. 2 p.m. Feb. 8. $10 general; $5 for students; free for Friends of the Freer House members. 71 E. Ferry, just east of Woodward, Detroit; 313-872-1790.

Mardi Gras Gala: The fourth annual Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan holds its annual dinner, including activities that mirror the Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans, such as fire-breathers, stilt-walkers, fortune tellers, and magicians. The event also includes the crowning of the King and Queen, the president and CEO of CSM Worldwide, Craig Cather, and chairman of the board at CSM Worldwide, Catherine Cather. Money raised benefits the many programs and services offered by the foundation. 6 p.m. Feb. 24. $250-$5,000. The Royal Park Hotel, 600 E. University Dr., Rochester; epilepsymichigan.org/mardigrasgala.

Cottage and Lakefront Living Show: Everything you need to know about living in a cottage or lakefront home is on display. Exhibits include log, timber frame, and cedar homes, cottage rentals, designers, cottage furnishings, and more. Feb. 26- March 1. $4-$10. Rock Financial Show Place, 46100 Grand River, Novi; showspan.com/cottageandlakefrontliving.aspx.

Cirque de Monaco: This year’s ball is inspired by the allure of 1960s Monte Carlo. Guests will be dressed in gowns, jewels, white tuxedos. Along with fancy cars, the evening consists of a casino, blackjack, roulette, Monte Carlo racing, palms, and candelabra, piano bar, and French jazz. Proceeds benefit the Detroit Institute of Arts, and tickets start at $75. 7 p.m. Feb. 28. The Roostertail, 100 Marquette Dr., Detroit; 313-833-4025.

 

FILM

Detroit Film Theatre: The DFT is giving a preview of this year’s Oscar-nominated short films in the animated and live-action categories on Feb. 22. These films are generally hard to come by, so it’s a real treat that they’re being brought together for one night of entertainment. Check the DFT’s Web site for a list of all the short films and running times. The preview of the 2008 Academy Award Nominated Short Films play at the DFT on Feb. 6.

Love is sort of in the air in San Francisco. Micah and Jo had a one-night stand. Jo wants nothing more than to leave, while Micah is desperately trying to get his new “friend” to have breakfast with him. Jo finally jumps ship. Micah can’t get Jo out of his head and descends into the city, looking for his newfound love. Sounds like a stalker movie, yes, but it’s not. It’s a love story and it’s Valentine’s season, so this movie can’t end badly. The 2008-released Medicine for Melancholy, directed by Barry Jenkins, is a sweet, smart, and sexy urban romance that stars not only Micah and Jo but the beautiful city of San Francisco. Feb. 13.

Tommy Lee Jones, the actor, played in what many call the most famous football game in the history of the world. It was 1968, and Harvard and Yale were both undefeated, the first time since 1909, and the season’s culmination, of course, was a duel between these two teams. Director Kevin Rafferty mixes in original footage and interviews with the 50 men who played the legendary game to form Harvard Beats Yale 29-29, a uniquely funny and suspenseful documentary on the greatest pigskin match ever, some say. All tickets $6.50-$7.50. 5200 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-7900; dia.org/dft.

Detroit Science Center IMAX: Grand Canyon Adventure will take you to one of America’s greatest sites, fly you over, and drop you down into this expansive natural monument. And it’ll cost only the price of a theater ticket.

From the deep, northern waters of Lake Superior to the eastern edges of Lake Ontario, Mysteries of the Great Lakes takes the viewer on a spin through some of most beautiful shorelines and scenery the nation offers.

The scariest thing about the deep sea is that no one has any idea what’s going on down there. Sure, fish are swimming and sharks are eating and whales are singing, but there’s a lot that no one really knows about. New species are being found all the time. Where did those giant squids come from? And what’s up with that fish with the long sharp teeth and the light bulb above his head that tricks other fish into swimming close and then get eaten? In Deep Sea, you will get a glimpse into some of the Earth’s most unique, dangerous, and colorful creatures, and their habitats. And the whole time you’ll stay dry — definitely a plus. All through February. $7.25-$12.95. 5020 John R, Detroit; 313-577-8400; detroitsciencecenter.org

The Redford Theatre: Total madness and a tragic end are always pluses in a movie. So it’s no surprise that Sunset Boulevard won three Oscars. It also helps that it was written and directed by Hollywood giant Billy Wilder. The movie is the story of failed writer (William Holden), a washed-up silent movie actress (Gloria Swanson), and her butler/former director/lover (Erich von Stroheim). The delusional actress believes she’s still got it in her. During a chance meeting (thanks to a flat tire), the failed writer is asked to move into her crumbling mansion on Sunset Boulevard to write her back into the spotlight. The writer eventually becomes her lover, but then falls for the sister. This puts the actress over the edge of madness, resulting in a tragic end. Feb. 6-7.

Deloris Van Carter (Whoopi Goldberg) is a Reno lounge singer who witnesses her mobster boyfriend whacking his boss. So she doesn’t get whacked herself, the FBI puts her into a witness protection program. That program is at a nunnery. Reno lounge singers and nuns generally have differing views on life, at least according to the 1992 movie Sister Act. After a get-to-know-ya process, Deloris finds a comfort zone with her fellow nuns and teaches them how to sing Reno-style and with a little more soul than they had before. Of course, the boyfriend comes back and the plot thickens. Feb. 20-21. All films $4. 17360 Lahser, Detroit; 313-537-2560; redfordtheatre.com.

 

MUSEUMS

Arab American National Museum: Utopian Visions is a visiting exhibition featuring four female artists who live and work in various locations throughout the world but came together to explore the concept of a perfect world. Rima Al-Awar (North Carolina/Toronto), Rana Chalabi (Cairo, Egypt), Roula Ayoub (Beirut, Lebanon), and Emna Zghai (Tunis, Tunisia/New York) created abstract and figural works, as well as projected images for this project. Through March 29.

With 30 photographs never exhibited together, A Yemeni Community: Photographs from the 1970s by Milton Rogovin reconnects the past community of Lackawanna, N.Y., where a small community of immigrants from Yemen lived until the city’s steel plants closed. Through July 5.

The exhibition Arab Civilization: Our Heritage features Arab contributions to the early world. Ongoing in the Community Courtyard. Arab-Americans come from a land that stretches from northern Africa to western Asia. The diversity can be as vast as the land, but they all have a shared sense of history and language, which they brought to America, starting about 1880. Coming to America features these immigrants and the culture they brought. Ongoing in Gallery 1.

Living in America exhibits early Arab-American life and the integral part they played in the early history of the United States. Ongoing exhibit in Gallery 2.

Making an Impact celebrates the stories of Arab-American athletes, organizations, physicians, labor leaders, and entertainers. Ongoing exhibit in Gallery 3. Museum admission: $3-$6; under 5 free. 13624 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-582-2266; arabamerican-museum.org.

Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History: Explore the role of photography in creating the concept of racial and socioeconomic identity in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture and the National Portrait Gallery’s jointly developed exhibit Let Your Motto Be Resistance: African American Portraits. Through March 1.

Women of a New Tribe is a national exhibit featuring the black-and-white photography of Jerry Taliaferro. His images showcase the physical and inner beauty of African-American women in the 1930s. Through April 6.

Stories in Stained Glass: The Art of Samuel A. Hodge, a series of intricate and colorful works focusing on three areas of African-American culture and history — musicians, dancers, and freedom advocates — is one of the ongoing exhibits in the Main Level Corridor.

A Is for Africa includes 26 interactive stations making up a 3-D “dictionary” designed for children. Ongoing in the Lower Level Corridor. • And Still We Rise: Our Journey Through African American History and Culture is an expansive, evolving exhibit that recounts the 3.5-million-year-old odyssey that began in Africa and ends in Detroit. Ongoing in the Core Exhibition Gallery.

Genealogy, a work designed by local artist Hubert Massey, depicts the struggles of African-Americans in the United States. Ongoing on the Main Level.

Detroit Performs is a photomontage dedicated to those who have gained national and international prominence in the performing arts. Ongoing in the Main Level Corridor.

Target has initiated a program of Free First Sundays at the museum; general admission at other times is $5-$8. 315 E. Warren, Detroit; 313-494-5800; maahdetroit.org.
Detroit Historical Museum: Detroit Artist’s Showcase displays the paintings of Robert Hopkin (1832-1909). His work has graced the likes of St. Anne’s Church and the original Detroit Opera House. The Scarab Club was once known as the Hopkin Club, in homage to the famous Detroit artist, when it opened in 1907. Opens Feb. 21.

Automotive Showplace celebrates the Model T centennial by displaying a “Tin Lizzie” from 1911.

Hero or Villain: Metro Detroit’s Legacy of Leadership examines the controversial lives of 16 public figures from the area’s past 300 years, including Augustus Woodward, Jimmy Hoffa, and Coleman Young.

100 Years Ago allows visitors to relate to past Detroiters through different forms of media that capture daily life in 1908.

Fabulous 5 will add “Detroit’s Entertainment Venues” to its showcase of local pop culture.

Permanent exhibitions include Streets of Old Detroit, Frontiers to Factories, The Motor City, and The Glancy Trains. General admission $4-$6. 5401 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-1805; detroithistorical.org.

Dossin Great Lakes Museum: Smugglers on the Straits examines a tradition of transporting cargo, goods, even people, and how it has changed in the course of three centuries in this region.

Fun, Fast & Fancy: Great Lakes Yachts takes a fanciful look at what yachting has looked like over the years along the Detroit River and Lake St. Clair. Both exhibits run through April. 100 Strand, Belle Isle, Detroit; 313-833-1805; detroithistorical.org.

Exhibit Museum of Natural History: A History of Pipes, part of the University of Michigan Museum of Anthropology’s collection of pipes, is a display of 15 types of smoking instruments, tracing the history and materials used for a leisure-time activity that has fallen out of favor. Through March.

Casting Tradition: Contemporary Brassworking in Ghana exhibits the evolution of a 500-year tradition practiced by Ghana’s Akan people. It highlights objects from the town of Krofrom, along with interviews, historical interpretations, and media displays of the entire casting process. Through May. • Relics pays tribute to ingenious gadgets, such as a mirrored ball, rotating galaxy projector, video projector masks, and much more — some pieced together with unexpected household items. On display indefinitely.

Dinosaur Tours are offered at 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. • Planetarium Shows are generally presented at 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. weekdays; call for weekend dates. • The Zula Patrol: Under the Weather, an animated adventure about weather, plays at 12:30 weekdays.

Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity, with recorded narration by Liam Neeson, explains the formation of the early universe. At 2:30 p.m. weekdays. Admission to the museum is free. Planetarium price is $4.75. University of Michigan Campus, 1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-764-0478; lsa.umich.edu/exhibitmuseum.

Henry Ford: Heroes of the Sky is a permanent exhibit focusing on adventures in early aviation.

With Liberty and Justice for All assembles a collection of national artifacts highlighting four pivotal periods of history, beginning with the American Revolution and ending in the 1960s with the civil-rights movement. Permanent exhibit.

Automobiles in American Life honors this great invention by featuring milestones, including the 15 millionth Model T produced, as well as the Ford Mustang. Permanent exhibit. 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn; 313-982-6001; thehenryford.org.
Greenfield Village: Nearly 100 historical buildings are here; visit notable attractions such as the birthplace of Henry Ford, Noah Webster’s home, and the home of Robert Frost. $14-$20. 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn; 313-982-6001; thehenryford.org.
International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit: Three permanent exhibits are on display: The Ethel Averbach Dolls of the World , the Flags of the World, and the Mr. and Mrs. Larry S. Wilkonson Immigrant Ship Collection. Free. There’s also the International Café on the lower level. 111 E. Kirby, Detroit; 313-871-8600; iimd.org.

 

MUSIC

From the Jayhawks: Gary Louris & Mark Olson: These two Minnesotans are founding members of the beloved — at least in the alt-county scene —Jayhawks. Louris, unlike Olson, is still with the Jayhawks, though they are pretty much inactive these days. He is often credited with taking the group to the poppier side of the alt-county scene when Olson turned in his Jayhawk badge. Bridges weren’t burned, however, and now the two are on the road bringing their different POVs of folk, Americana, and alt-county together. 8 p.m. Feb. 3. $25-$32 The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-761-1818.
Galactic: The word “galactic” usually brings to mind comic books, superheroes, and science-fiction films. But this time, it’s none of the above. Galactic is a funk and jazz group from New Orleans. (The group, back in ‘94 when it all came together, was originally called Galactic Prophylactic.) This five-piece pulls from a variety of genres, such as hip-hop, rock, electronic, and various types of world music, to bring their sound together. But it’s the jazz and funk that powers these five boys forward. 7 p.m. Feb. 4. $20. The Majestic Theatre, 4120 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-9700.

Kathleen Edwards: It didn’t take long for people to catch on to Canadian folk, alt-county singer/songwriter Kathleen Edwards. It was 1999, she was just a few years out of high school, and she laid down her first six-song EP, Building 55. She pressed only 500 copies. It was pretty much all the way up from there. She’s been praised by magazines like Rolling Stone and Blender, as well as The New York Times. 8 p.m. Feb. 4. $20. Magic Bag, 22920 Woodward, Ferndale; 248-544-3030.

Soulja Boy: Soulja Boy wasn’t born Soulja Boy; no one is born Soulja Boy. His real name is DeAndre Ramone Way. This 18-year-old rapper created a song that, starting in September 2007, ran for seven non-consecutive weeks at No. 1 in Billboard’s Hot 100. The song, “Crank That (Soulja Boy),” then caused a bit of a ruckus inside the hip-hop community. Rappers like Snoop Dogg came out and said it was a fad, calling it “ringtone hip-hop.” And Ice-T went as far as to get into a YouTube back-and-forth scuffle with the youngster, with Ice-T calling the song garbage. Kanye West defended Way, praising him for his new and original hip-hop creation. You be the judge. 7 p.m. Feb. 7. $37.50-$40. The Fillmore, 2115 Woodward, Detroit; 313-961-5450.

Valentine Spectacular with Mitch Ryder and others: Hamtramck-born Mitch Ryder is joining two other Detroit groups — the 1960s doo-wop group The Reflections and Motown Records R&B group The Contours — for a Valentine extravaganza. Bring a date, because songs like “Do You Love Me” and “(Just Like) Romeo and Juliet” aren’t the same when you’re alone. The 1960s vocal groups The Drifters and The Diamonds will join these hometown boys for the night. 7 p.m. Feb. 7. $37-$67. The Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway, Detroit; 313-
237-SING.

The Pretenders: Chrissie Hynde was born in Akron, Ohio, but moved to London, England, shortly after the 1970 Kent State University shootings. In England, she began writing for the New Music Express. After a few projects that didn’t seem to take, Hynde and a few acquaintances got together in 1978 and formed the Pretenders. The group grabbed the end of the British punk scene and pulled in the beginning of the new wave movement in England to form their sound. Their latest release hit the shelves in October. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 9. $45. The Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor; 734-668-8397.

Buckwheat Zydeco: There is a lot in a name. And, not that there is anything wrong with Stanley Dural, Jr., but Buckwheat Zydeco is a head-turner and an attention-grabber. Buckwheat, who was born Stanley, is an accordionist and zydeco performer, and one of the most well-known zydeco performers out there. Nothing against his musicianship, which he has a lot of, but it probably doesn’t hurt to have the style of music you play as your last name. It’s surprising other musicians haven’t tried this. You know, like Mick Rock ‘n’ Roll or something. Yeah, doesn’t ring the same as Buckwheat Zydeco. 8 p.m. Feb. 9. $20-$27. The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-761-1818.

B.B. King and Buddy Guy: B.B. King is 83 years old and Buddy Guy is 72. Together, they have 155 years of the blues behind them. Now, that’s not a criticism, it’s a celebration. In fact, playing the blues for as long as these two could seem as if it might take a toll on their emotional state. After all, they are called the blues, right? But, according to pictures on the Internet, they always seem to be smiling. Anyway, not much needs to be said about these multi-award winning, highly acclaimed musicians. They’re walking, singing, blues-shredding titans. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 16. $32.50-$75. Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward, Detroit; 313-471-6611.

Flogging Molly: Take American punk rock and Celtic ideas and influences, mix them together, and you’ll get the seven-piece L.A.-based group Flogging Molly. Formed more than 10 years ago, the group released its fourth album, Float, in March. 6:30 p.m. Feb. 19. $25. The Fillmore, 2115 Woodward, Detroit; 313-961-5450.

Steppin’ In It & Wiyos: Roots music spans a number of genres, from bluegrass to country to gospel to Cajun to jug bands. It’s pretty much music that either was born or developed right here in America. Hometown boys Steppin’ In It and the New York City-based Wiyos come together for an evening of showcasing America’s musical roots. 8 p.m. Feb. 19. $15-$20. The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-761-1818.

Celtic Woman: Celtic Woman is more than just one woman. It’s an ensemble cast of Irish female vocalists and one fiddler. Musicians like Enya and Clannad paved the way for Celtic music in the past, and groups like Celtic Woman are moving in into the future. 8 p.m. Feb. 20. $34-$66. Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward, Detroit; 313-471-6611.

Lyle Lovett & John Hiatt: Well, there’s Lyle Lovett the singing/songwriting county star. And then there’s Lyle Lovett whose marriage to Julia Roberts in 1993 caught the entire country, and most magazine covers, by storm. The marriage lasted only two years, with both parties citing strenuous professional schedules. It is said, however, that the two remain close friends. Now back to the music. Lovett has recorded a baker’s dozen of albums, won Grammys, and can be found, from time to time, in the top 10 of a chart somewhere. On the flip side of this ticket is John Hiatt, who was never married to Julia Roberts, by the way. Hiatt has racked up his own bag full of awards, nominations, and industry recognitions playing his brand of blues-county-rock music. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 20. $49.50-$75. The Michigan Theatre, 603 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor; 734-668-8397.

Eddie Money: Watch Eddie Money’s video “Shakin,” and count how many weird faces he makes. His lips twitch and his eyes sometimes look as if they might bug out, but you’re still diggin’ the jam and boppin’ your head. That means it’s a good tune (and it isn’t a bad video, either). Money is nearly 60 years old now and still makes those faces. It must be a testament to being really into what you do. Money’s high point spanned the 1970s and ’80s, with help from his numerous videos on the fledgling MTV, having a number of albums turning platinum. 8 p.m. Feb. 20. $25-$65. Andiamo Celebrity Showroom, 7096 E. 14 Mile Rd., Warren; 586-268-3200.

Nickelback: Some might scoff at Nickelback and some might own a few T-shirts advertising the band. Regardless of your stance on this alternative rock Canadian four-piece, they are producing music for the masses — and the masses are buying it up. Released in November, their newest album, Dark Horse, was well-received, reaching No. 2 on Billboard’s 200 and No. 1 on Billboard ’s Top Rock Albums and the Canadian Albums Chart. 7 p.m. Feb. 28. $44-$62.50. Joe Louis Arena, 600 Civic Center Dr, Detroit; 313-983-6606.

Sam Roberts: Sam Roberts, who hails from Montreal, has a song called “Detroit ‘67.” It’s a bluesy, rock-driven tune that harks back to a bleak time of Detroit’s history. The video accompaniment of the song mixes archival footage from the riots, with Roberts walking down Detroit’s streets as a detective, drinking in bars, and asking what happened to the times when the city wasn’t walking a tightrope. 8 p.m. Feb. 28. $19.39. St. Andrew’s Hall, 431 E. Congress, Detroit; 313-961-8137.

 

THEATER

Andiamo Celebrity Showroom: Join the family at Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding, where audience members play a part in festivities. Feb. 13. $63 includes Andiamo buffet. 7096 E. 14 Mile Rd., Warren; 586-268-3200.

Baldwin Theatre: La Cage aux Folles showcases the hilarity in bringing one’s fiancée’s ultraconservative parents home to meet your folks, who happen to be drag club owners. Feb. 1-8. $15-16. 415 S. Lafayette, Royal Oak; 248-541-6430.

Bonstelle: Zora is My Name! captures the wit and personality of writer Zora Neal Hurston during her life in the Harlem Renaissance. Feb. 20-March 1. $12-20. 3434 Woodward, Detroit; 313-471-6611 .

Fox: Sesame Street Live! “When Elmo Grows Up” features Elmo and all his furry friends in a family-friendly show. Through Feb. 15. $12-$32. 2211 Wood-ward, Detroit; 313-471-6611

Detroit Repertory: August Wilson’s Radio Golf follows the story of Harmond Wilks, a man on a quest to be Pittsburgh’s first African-American mayor. Through March 22. $17-$20. 13103 Woodward, Detroit; 313-577-2972.

Detroit Opera House: Broadway’s longest-running show, Rent, presents a story of love and community under the shadow of the AIDS crisis. The show features original cast members Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp. Feb.17-22. $22-45 1426 Broadway, Detroit; 313-965-4052.

Fisher: 2005 Tony Award winner for Best Musical, Spamalot is a comedic take on the classic film Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Directed by Mike Nichols. Feb. 3-15. $29-82.

Follow 17 aspiring Broadway dancers on their journey to stardom in A Chorus Line. Through Feb. 1. $25.50-$76.50 3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit; 313-872-1000.

Hilberry: Looking for a Shakespearean twist? Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead centers on the lives of two minor characters in Hamlet. Written by Tom Stoppard. Feb. 5- March 14. $25. • Experience a tragic tale of honor and family in Arthur Miller’s All My Sons. Feb. 20-May 16. $30. 4743 Cass, Detroit; 313-577-2972.

Jewish Ensemble Theatre: Using recently discovered writings and survivor accounts, The Diary of Anne Frank tells the heartbreaking story of a family’s life under Nazi rule. Feb. 17-March 15. $30-$39. 6600 W. Maple, West Bloomfield; 248-788-2900.

Meadow Brook: Judy Garland looks back on her life in the Michigan premiere of Beyond the Rainbow. Feb. 1. $30.  • What was really going on when King Kong snatched Ann Darrow? These answers and more are solved in the comedic farce Kong’s Night Out. Starring Cindy Williams and Eddie Mekka. Opens Feb. 11. $24-$39. 207 Wilson Hall, Oakland University, Rochester; 248-377-3300.

Music Hall: The Clean-Up Woman is a comedic take on the perils career women face in hiring outside cleaning help. Feb. 10-15. Call for ticket prices. 350 Madison, Detroit; 313-887-8500.

Oakland University: Bloody Bess: A Tale of Piracy and Revenge takes the audience (as participants), through a thrilling pirate adventure of revenge and blood. Through Feb. 14. $6-$12. Varner Recital Hall, OU campus, Rochester; 248-370-2030.

Planet Ant Theatre: After sharing a prostitute, two old friends find heartbreak and laughter in Adam Rapp’s Red Light Winter. Feb. 27-March 21. $5-15 2357 Caniff, Hamtramck; 313-365-4948

Tipping Point: Rabbit Hole is a witty but compassionate dialogue charting a family’s struggle to cope. Opens Feb. 4. $20-28. 361 E. Cady St. Northville; 248-347-0003. tix@tippingpointtheatre.org.

Send information at least nine weeks in advance to:

Listings, Hour Detroit, 117 W. Third St., Royal Oak, MI 48067.
By fax: 248-691-4531.
By e-mail:
editorial@hourdetroit.