ART
Art Gallery of Windsor (AGW): Witness the intersection of timeless texts and street culture in Jenny Holzer: Inflammatory Essays (1979-82), through Oct. 11.
• Art for Canada: An Illustrated History is an ongoing exhibition. $5; members free, Wednesdays free. 401 Riverside Drive W., Windsor, Ontario; 519-977-0013; agw.ca.
Art Leaders Gallery: The Woods Come Alive: The Four Seasons is a landscape-oriented exhibit featuring the work of Michelle Courier, Alexander Volekov, and Nakisa Seika. The artists’ interpretations of woody scenes and changing seasons combine Impressionism, pointillism, and realism in a seasonally appropriate show. Oct. 1-31. 33030 Northwestern Hwy., West Bloomfield Township; 248-539-0262, artleaders.com.
Biddle Gallery: Made in the Mitten is an ongoing multi-media exhibition of works by more than 100 Michigan artists. 2840 Biddle, Wyandotte; 734-281-4779; biddlegallery.com.
Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center (BBAC): The Annual Faculty Exhibit and works by students of Chris Unwin open Oct. 23, accompanied by a reception that evening. 1516 S. Cranbrook, Birmingham; 248-644-0866; bbartcenter.org.
Community House: The 2009 Our Town Art Show and Sale is an all-media juried show featuring Michigan artists. Oct. 15-17, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 280 S. Bates, Birmingham; 248-644-5832; communityhouse.com.
David Klein Gallery: Kristen Beaver’s oil paintings are on display through Oct. 17.
• The figurative theme continues with the large-scale contemporary works of realist Bo Bartlett, Oct. 24-Nov. 28. 163 Townsend, Birmingham; 248-433-3700; dkgallery.com.
Detroit Institute of Arts: Exhibits this autumn illustrate the artistic evolution of media. Action < > Reaction: Video Installations examines the journey of the video format as art over four decades, highlighting five thought-provoking videos from around the world. Through Jan. 3.
• Photography — The First 100 Years: A Survey from the DIA’s Collection includes photographs from roughly the early 1840s to 1940 by both European and American photographers, documenting the aesthetic evolution of the medium as art. Through Jan. 3.
• Avedon Fashion Photographs, 1944-2000 is a comprehensive collection of the photographer’s images, spanning a half-century and ranging from the unknown to the iconic. Oct. 18-Jan. 17. Admission: $8 adults; $6 seniors; $4 ages 6-17; children and members free. Wed.-Thur.: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Fri.: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat.-Sun.: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Mon.-Tue. 5200 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-7900; dia.org.
Eastern Michigan University Ford Gallery: 2D/3D features two shows in two galleries, exploring all dimensions of art. Contemporary Sculpture in the University Art Gallery and Contemporary Painting in the Ford Gallery both examine specific media. Oct. 5-Nov. 5. 114 Ford Hall, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti; 734-487-0465; emich.edu/fordgallery.
Ellen Kayrod Gallery: The Art of Aging Biennial runs through Oct. 9. • New works by Detroit sculptor Robert Bielat open Oct. 16, accompanied by a reception with the artist that evening. 4750 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-1300; hannan.org.
Flint Institute of Arts: The work of New York-based abstract artist Claudia Demonte is on display through Nov. 1.
• Vintage Rock and Roll Posters features silk-screened originals of concert posters for musicians such as Jimi Hendrix and the Grateful Dead, while Graphic Beauty: Contemporary Rock and Roll Posters exhibits intense, present-day “gig posters”. Both run through Nov. 8. 1120 E. Kearsley, Flint; 810-234-1695; flintarts.org.
Gallery Project: Landscape and Memory runs through Nov. 1. 215 S. Fourth, Ann Arbor; 734-997-7012; thegalleryproject.com.
G.R. N’Namdi Gallery: The N’Namdi Collection features seminal works of African-American art, through Oct. 12. 1435 Randolph, Detroit; 313-831-8700, grnnamdi.com.
Grosse Pointe Art Center: Embedded Light and The National Encaustic Show run Oct. 9-Nov. 7. 16900 Kercheval, Grosse Pointe Park; 313-821-1848; grossepointeartcenter.org.
Lawrence Street Gallery: Editions: Printmaking ’09 runs through Oct. 31. 22620 Woodward, Ferndale; 248-544-0394; lawrencestreetgallery.com.
MSU Kresge Art Museum: Celebrating Korea includes Gods, Demons and Generals: Icons of Korean Shamanism, a collection of paintings inspired by Korean spiritual traditions, and mixed-media installations by Haeri Yoo, in conjunction with MSU’s Asian Studies program. Through Oct. 18.
• Class Pictures: Photographs by Dawoud Bey features 40 intimate color portraits of a diverse group of high-school students, to form a great picture of contemporary American youth. Oct. 24-Dec. 20. First floor of Kresge Art Center on the campus of Michigan State University, East Lansing; 517-353-9834; artmuseum.msu.edu.
Northville Art House: In a nod to location and a tradition of eclectic artwork, West of Center is the theme for this year’s All Media Show, Oct. 2-24. 215 W. Cady, Northville; 248-344-0497; northvillearts.org.
Oakland University Art Gallery: Writing an Image: Chinese Literati Art runs through Nov. 22. 208 Wilson Hall on the Oakland University campus, Rochester; 248-370-2100, oakland.edu/ouag.
Padzieski Art Gallery: A one-person exhibit featuring the work of Adnan Charara. Through Nov. 7. Ford Community and Performing Arts Center, 15801 Michigan, Dearborn; 313-943-2190, DCACarts.org.
Re: View Contemporary Gallery: The work of Dennis Hayes IV, a painter inspired both by nature and by blue-collar life in Rust Belt towns, is on display Oct. 3-Nov. 7. 444 W. Willis, Unit 111, Detroit; 313-833-9000; reviewcontemporary.com.
River Gallery: An installation exhibit by U-M faculty members Larry Cressman and Susan Crowell runs through Nov. 15. 120 S. Main, Chelsea; 734-433-0826; chelsearivergallery.com.
Sherry Washington Gallery: The work of realist painter Richard Lewis, an alumnus of Cass Technical High School and the College for Creative Studies, along with Portraits of Now! run through Nov. 14. 1274 Library, Detroit; 313-961-4500; sherrywashingtongallery.com.
Starkweather Art and Cultural Center: The Black and White Exhibit runs Oct. 2-24. 219 N. Main, Romeo; 586-752-5700; starkweatherarts.com.
Swords Into Plowshares Peace Center and Gallery: To kick off its yearlong 25th anniversary celebration, the gallery displays Ron Scarborough, Jackie Wilson, and Stan Boyer: 1900-1920 Post-Slavery Life, Self-Portraits, and the Chronology of Struggle. Through Oct. 17. 33 E. Adams, Detroit; 313-963-7575; swordsintoplowsharesdetroit.com.
UMMA: UMMA Projects: Lisa Anne Auerbach continues through Oct. 11.
• Warhol Snapshots, 1973-1986 gathers images from a dynamic period in the artist’s career and features the first public presentation of several black-and-white photographs and Polaroids. Through Nov. 1.
• (Un)Natural History: The Museum Unveiled features photographs of Richard Barnes, examining the role of the natural history museum in society’s understanding of itself through the acts of collecting, preserving, and displaying objects of value. Through Dec. 6.
• The natural and manmade beauty of the Normandy Coast inspired such painters as Manet, Courbet, Degas, and Monet, as well as photographers Henri Le Secq and Gustave Le Gray. Their stunning creations can be seen in The Lens of Impressionism: Photography and Painting Along the Normandy Coast, 1850-1874. Oct. 10-Jan. 3. 525 S. State, Ann Arbor; 734-764-0395; umma.umich.edu.
CLASSICAL
Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra: Cellist David Requiro joins the A2SO in an evening performance of Haydn’s Cello Concerto No.2 in D. The orchestra also plays works by Vaughan Williams and Tchaikovsky. 8 p.m. Oct. 17. $12.50-$49. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor; 734-668-8397;a2so.com
Chamber Music Society of Detroit: The Tokyo String Quartet performs works by Mendelssohn, Schubert, and Bartok. 8 p.m. Oct. 3. $43-$75. Seligman Performing Arts Center on the campus of Detroit Country Day School, 22305 W. 13 Mile, Beverly Hills; 248-855-6070; comehearcmsd.org.
Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings: Opening the DCWS’ 27th season, Gothic Glory explores music ranging from the Baroque to contemporary, featuring mixed chamber works for brass, strings, winds, and organ. 3 p.m. Oct. 3. $10-$25. First Presbyterian Church, 1669 W. Maple Rd., Birmingham; 248-644-2040.
Detroit Symphony Orchestra: Guest pianist and Detroit native James Tocco takes on the duties in Samuel Barber’s Piano Concerto in honor of Barber’s 100-year anniversary. Included are two other Barber works, as well as Strauss’ Don Quixote. Leonard Slatkin conducts. Oct. 1-3.
• Guest conductor Peter Oundjian directs the orchestra in works by Beethoven, Mahler, and Wagner. Oct. 16 and 18.
• At 14, Kirill Gerstein was the youngest person ever admitted into the prestigious Berklee School of Music. The pianist will perform the knuckle-breaking Third Concerto by Rachmaninov. Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8 and Barber’s Essay No. 1 are also on the program, conducted by Charles Greenwell. Oct. 23-25.
• Superstar violinist Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg performs the solo duties in Barber’s Violin Concerto No. 1. Tchaikovsky’s “Pathétique” Symphony and Vasks’ Musica Dolorosa round out the program. Oct. 29-31. Max M. Fisher Music Center, 3711 Woodward, Detroit; 313-576-5111; detroitsymphony.com.
Macomb Symphony Orchestra: Oakland University alum and mezzo-soprano Lisa Agazzi performs with the symphony in a program called Ciao, Italia. 8 p.m. Oct. 23. $14 and $18. Macomb Center for the Performing Arts, 44575 Garfield, Clinton Township; 586-286-2222; macombsymphony.org
Michigan Opera Theatre: Since its premiere in 1842, Nabucco has been challenging even the most accomplished singers. MOT’s production (its first presentation of the Verdi masterpiece) features Marco di Felice in the title role and Francesca Patanè as Abigaille. And, of course, the chorus has a prominent role. $29-$121. Oct. 17, 21, & 24. 1526 Broadway, Detroit, 313-237-SING.
Oakland University Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance: Brandy Hudelson performs with guest artist Alberto Almarza. Described as “a virtuoso flutist” by The Boston Globe, Almarza is on the faculty at Carnegie Mellon University. 1 p.m. October 4. Free. Varner Recital Hall, OU Campus, Rochester; 248-370-2030.
University Musical Society: The Toronto Star said: “Weilerstein plays classical music, but with the depth of soul and raw emotional energy of a diehard rocker.” The 26-year-old American cellist Alisa Weilerstein, accompanied by pianist Inon Barnatan, will play works by Beethoven, Stravinsky, and Rachmaninoff. 8 p.m. Oct. 8. $10-$50. Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-763-3333; ums.org.
Vivace Concert Series: Folk guitarist Gerard Edery, along with oud player Ara Finkjian and drummer Glen Velez, perform Sephardic folk and popular songs. 8 p.m. Oct. 10. $18-23. Birmingham Temple, 28611 W. 12 Mi Rd., Farmington Hills; 248-788-9338; vivaceseries.org.
DANCE
Eisenhower Dance Ensemble: Opening EDE’s 18th season, the performance On The Move features virtuosic dances performed by company members, EDE students, and other guest artists. Oct 25. $8-$15. 211 Varner Hall, Rochester; 248-370-4578; oakland.edu.
Macomb Center for the Performing Arts: In 1995, six steel workers from Sydney performed in a small tap-dance show that would eventually become the international sensation Tap Dogs. 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Oct. 24. $17-$50.
• The Ukrainian National Dance Ensemble shares Ukrainian culture and pride through vibrant folk dance and music. 3 p.m. Oct. 25. $17-$42. Macomb Center for the Performing Arts, 44575 Garfield, Clinton Township; 586-286-2222; macombcenter.com.
Pilobolus: If you enjoyed the company’s shape-shifting performances at the 2007 Academy Awards, or on TV shows such as Oprah! and Conan O’Brien, you can now see the company live, as they bend, stretch, and transform into mesmerizing shapes. 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31 and 2:30 p.m. Nov. 1. $29-$61. Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway, Detroit; 313-961-3500; motopera.org.
So You Think You Can Dance Tour: The top 10 contestants perform dances from the Emmy-nominated fifth season in 40 cities over two months. 7:30 p.m. Oct. 3. $38-$56. Joe Louis Area, 600 Civic Center Dr., Detroit; 313-983-6606.
Stars of Ballet and Broadway: Professional dancers from Broadway and world-class companies come together for this dance benefit. The performance also honors Detroit teachers who have dedicated their lives to dance education. 8 p.m. Oct. 8-9. Music Hall, 350 Madison, Detroit; 313-887-8500.
Suzanne Farrell Ballet: The former New York City Ballet ballerina brings her company to Ann Arbor to perform an almost-exclusive Balanchine program. The company remounts Mr. B’s iconic Apollo and one his last works, Chaconne. 8 p.m. Oct. 9 and 1 p.m and 8 p.m. Oct. 10. $20-$48. Power Center, 121 Fletcher, Ann Arbor; 734-764-2538; ums.org.
EVENTS
Walk to D’Feet ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis): It’s most commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, and as a result of the illness, someone dies every 90 minutes. The “Walk To D’Feet ALS” is the Michigan Chapter of The ALS Association’s national fundraiser and raises money to research the cause and cure. 9 a.m. check-in, 10 a.m. start time. Oct. 3 Belle Isle Park, Detroit; 248-680-6540.
Birmingham House Tour: The tour is hosted by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and includes homes designed by AIG architects. The homes on display represent the newest design concepts and features in residences. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 4 $15-$20. Birmingham; 313-965-4103 or aiadetroit.org.
Scarab Club Costume Ball: Back in the day, this historic club was known for throwing some of Detroit’s most glamorous events. This month, the Scarab Club re-creates the magic with flapper gowns, as well as spats and gangster attire for men. The event also includes drinks, music, and dancing. 7:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Oct. 10. $50-$100. Scarab Club, 217 Farnsworth (behind the Detroit Institute of Arts); 313-831-1250.
Women in Philanthropy: The Sinai Guild hosts the luncheon, a women’s heart-health event. This year, it features Dr. Mehmet Oz, known for his guest appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show and Discovery Health. Noon. $100. Congregation Shaarey Zedek, 27375 Bell Rd., Southfield; 248-538-6501 or thesinaiguild.org.
Key to the Cure Campaign at Saks: During this shopping weekend, Saks Fifth Avenue will donate 2 percent of their sales, up to $250,000, to local and national women’s cancer organizations and research centers. Oct. 15-18. Saks Fifth Avenue, Somerset Collection South, Troy; 248-643-6360.
Studio 2009: Formerly known as Fanfare, it’s the same event with a different name. Enjoy a rare opportunity to inside of the Cranbrook Academy of Art. Get to know the artists, designers, and architects where they work. 6:30 p.m. Oct. 17. $250-$450 Cranbrook Academy of Art and Art Museum, Bloomfield Hills; cranbrook.edu.
Tim Gunn: Gunn, Project Runway ’s arbiter of style and star of Bravo’s spinoff Tim Gunn’s Guide to Style, hosts a fashion event 1-4 p.m. Oct. 17 at the North Grand Court, Somerset Collection, 2800 W. Big Beaver, Troy; 248-643-6360.
Detroit International Wine Auction: The College for Creative Studies’ “Art of Wine” fundraiser is chaired by Shelly and Don Manvel. Wines of Chateau Ste. Michelle will be highlighted, and the evening will include unique wines, hors d’oeuvres, auction items, and dinner. Oct. 24. Wintergarden inside of the Renaissance Center, 400 Renaissance Center, Detroit; 313-664-7464 or collegeforcreativestudies.edu.
Bloomfield Hills Antique Jewelry and Vintage Apparel Show: Victorian through mid-20th century vintage clothing is featured, as well as designer and fine antique jewelry. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Oct. 24. $5. Birmingham Unitarian Church, 38651 Woodward, Bloomfield Hills; 248-988-0924.
Friends of the Freer House: Art scholar Linda Merrill, author of The Peacock Room: A Cultural Biography, speaks on “The Blue Room: Whistler’s Peacock Room in Detroit.” Whistler patron Charles L. Freer had the famous room dismantled and brought from England to Detroit in 1906, where it was installed in his Ferry Avenue home. After Freer’s death in 1919, the room was moved to the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. 2 p.m. Oct. 25, Lecture Hall at the Detroit Institute of Arts, 5200 Woodward, Detroit. Free with museum admission. Following the lecture, visitors are invited to a reception and tour of the Freer home, including the space where The Peacock Room had been installed. 71 E. Ferry, one block north of the DIA. $10. 313-872-1790.
Robin Williams: After postponing several dates back in March to undergo heart surgery, former Michigan native Robin Williams returns to Detroit. His “Weapons of Self Destruction” tour includes his trademark riffs on social and political absurdities. 8 p.m. Oct. 31. $98-$153. Soundboard, inside MotorCity Casino Hotel, 2901 Grand River, Detroit; 313-237-7711.
Haunted in the House: Even if you don’t believe that the 87-year-old Detroit Opera House is haunted, it certainly will be on Halloween. The grand lobby and second floor will be transformed into a spook-tacular palace of “fright and intrigue.” Guests at the fundraiser will also enjoy drinking, dancing, and Halloween treats. Costume attire is suggested. 10 p.m.- 1 a.m., Oct. 31. $35-$75. Detroit Opera House. 1526 Broadway, Detroit; 313-237-7464.
FILM
Detroit Film Theatre: Big Fan is the directorial debut of Robert Siegel, the writer of last year’s The Wrestler, starring Mickey Rourke. In Siegel’s first film, Paul Aufiero (Patton Oswalt) is a 35-year-old Staten Island super fan of the New York Giants. He lives with his mother, whom he keeps up all night with calls into radio sports shows. But his allegiance is tested as he has a fateful encounter with the team’s MVP. Big Fan is darkly funny, disturbing, and described as a poignant distant cousin to Scorsese’s The King of Comedy. Oct. 2-4.
• Raul (Alfredo Castro) is an Al Pacino look-alike. Yet his passion is with mastering John Travolta’s Tony Manero from Saturday Night Fever. Raul attends a grungy movie house that runs the film day and night, in his preparation for a nationally televised Manero-imitation contest in the repressive, 1970s police state of Chile. Through this, Raul’s manic, self-delusion and not-so-repressed anger becomes apparent. Tony Manero may be a cautionary tale about fascism or simply a horrifying (and darkly funny) movie about disco. Either way, it’s not for the faint-of-heart. Persons under 18 not admitted. Oct. 2-4, 9-11.
• Cloud 9, a German picture, paints a world where aging isn’t all that graceful. Inge and Werner have a well-ordered marriage. Werner loves trains, and their vacations together tend to be rail journeys that go in circles. This troubles Inge, who is a seamstress and still does the occasional home visit. On one such event, Inge meets Karl, and the bored wife is thrown into a love affair that threatens that well-ordered marriage. Oct. 9-11, 16-17.
• Director Kore-eda Hirokazu, with a body of work that includes Nobody Knows and After Life, has established himself as one of the most popular and acclaimed Japanese directors of his generation. His newest film, Still Walking, is the story of two grown children who, along with their own families, decide on a 24-hour visit to their elderly parents. As the story unfolds, the family discovers their joys, disappointments, and expectations — both met and unmet. Oct. 16-18, 23-25. • Laila’s Birthday is a Palestinian, Tunisian, and Dutch co-production. Set in Ramallah, a cab driver who happens to be a former judge has one mission from his wife — get home early with a cake and a present for his daughter Laila’s seventh birthday. The result turns chaotic. Oct. 23-25, 30-31.
• British television commercials are unlike those anywhere else. These surprising television productions not only have been cutting-edge and brilliantly conceived, but also have showcased the work of Ridley Scott, Tony Scott, Hugh Hudson, and Alan Parker. Since the 1980s, the top prizewinners of the British Television Advertising Awards have toured the world, and this year the DIA is in one of those cities. Oct. 30-31. All tickets $6.50-$7.50. 5200 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-7900; dia.org/dft.
Detroit Science Center IMAX: From the deep northern waters of Lake Superior to the eastern edges of Lake Ontario, Mysteries of the Great Lakes takes viewers on a spin through some of most beautiful shorelines and scenery the nation offers. And you’ll stay dry.
• Animalopolis is a journey into a more lighthearted, dancing, somersaulting, fanciful animal kingdom than the one that exists in reality. But that’s OK, because this IMAX film is fun for the whole family. The film reveals a variety of animals that include cheetahs, bears, crabs, and lions — with no threat of getting maimed.
• Some of us just don’t have the resources or the nerve to climb the Alps. So, a decent alternative might be the IMAX. The Alps at the IMAX is a journey up the Eiger North Face. It’s a story of the Alps, the people who live there, and the people who climb the massive mountain. All through October. $7.25-$12.95. 5020 John R, Detroit; 313-577-8400; detroitsciencecenter.org.
The Redford Theatre: The Blob and Kronos make for an evening of late ’50s freak-out films. The Blob (1958) is the story of an alien life form that emerges from a meteor and grows as it consumes the humans it comes into contact with. It grows and grows, but can the town stop it? The film features a young Steve McQueen in the starring male role. The 1957 film Kronos involves another meteor, which crashes into the ocean. A few days later, a machine emerges that seems to suck the energy from Earth and destroys everything in its path. Oct. 2-3.
• An even earlier couple of features the next weekend are screened: the 1935 Werewolf of London and the 1945 House of Dracula. In Werewolf of London, Dr. Wilfred Glendon is attacked in the dark by a creature during a botanical expedition to Tibet. As he returns to London, he finds himself turning into a werewolf and terrorizing the city. His only cure? Wouldn’t you know it — a rare Asian flower. The other film, House of Dracula, is the triple threat of monsters when Frankenstein’s monster, Dracula, and the Wolfman throw down for a rumble. Oct. 16-17.
• The story of the 1920 silent film Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is a well-known story of split personalities. Through a potion created by the charitable Dr. Jekyll, he’s split, revealing his evil side and wreaking havoc throughout the city. Oct. 23-24.
• The Redford Theatre is celebrating Halloween vaudevillian-style with a Three Stooges Halloween Festival featuring the episodes We Want Our Mummy, Spook Louder, If A Body Meets a Body, Mummies Dummies, The Ghost Talks, and Who Done It? Oct. 30-31. All films $4. 17360 Lahser, Detroit; 313-537-2560; redfordtheatre.com.
MUSEUMS
Arab American National Museum: Arab Civilization: Our Heritage features Arab contributions to the early world. Ongoing in the Community Courtyard.
• Coming to America focuses on Arab immigrants and the culture they brought to the United States. Ongoing in Gallery 1.
• Living in America exhibits early Arab-American life. 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. $6 adults; $3 students and seniors. Under 5 free. 13624 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-582-2266; arabamericanmuseum.org.
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History: Legends of the Music: The Photography of Leni Sinclair runs through May 2010.
• 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; maah-detroit.org.
Detroit Historical Museum: VeloCity: Detroit’s Need for Speed showcases the ways in which Detroiters have used their need for speed on land, water, air and other forms of transportation.
• The Cougar II is a two-door red coupe that is the only one as its kind. It was built in 1963 as a prototype of the Ford Motor Co. Fabulous 5: Detroit’s Snack Food Superstars is an exhibit featuring Better Made Snack Food Co., Germack Pistachio Co., Sanders Confectionery, Stroh’s Products and Vernor’s Ginger Ale. Each company is a household name and been around for generations.
• Detroit Trivia includes more than 300 years of Detroit facts divided into four categories. Questions are based on difficulty and include historic images and artifacts.
• Belle Isle: Soul of the City, Lighting the Way for Better Urban Living is an exhibit focusing on better urban living through a healthier citizenry.
• An exhibit featuring more than 200 reproductions of American Judaic treasures from the Library of Congress and other loans from important institutions are on display in From Haven to Home: Jewish Life in America.
• Detroit Artist’s Showcase displays the paintings of Robert Hopkin (1832-1909), whose work has graced Ste. Anne’s Church and the original Detroit Opera House. • 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.
• 100 Years Ago allows visitors to relate to past Detroiters through different forms of media that capture daily life in 1909.
• Detroit’s Classic TV Personalities honors seven notable Detroit TV figures, such as Bill Bonds, John Kelly, Bill Kennedy, and Soupy Sales.
• The newest acquisitions to the museum’s collection include a pair of skates worn during the Detroit Red Wings 2007-2008 Stanley Cup Championship season, a dress made from film canisters that was worn to the 1993 Fash Bash by Louise Hodgson, and more. General admission $4-$6. 5401 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-1805; detroithistorical.org.
Detroit Science Center: Accidental Mummies of Guanajuato makes its world debut. The exhibit is a 10,000-square-foot showcase that features 36 never-before-seen mummies. The mummies are on loan from the Museo de las Momias de Guanajuato. Opens this month. 5020 John R, Detroit; detroitsciencecenter.org.
Dossin Great Lakes Museum: Committed to the Deep: Exploring Underwater Treasures is an exhibit exploring the changes that have taken place in the last century beneath the surface of the Great Lakes. On display are shipwrecks that divers have explored and the artifacts that have been salvaged.
• L is for Lighthouse is an exhibit that explores lighthouses, lenses, locations, and lives of their keepers. 100 Strand, Belle Isle, Detroit; 313-833-1805; detroithistorical.org.
Exhibit Museum of Natural History: Relics pays tribute to ingenious gadgets, such as a mirrored ball, rotating galaxy projector, video-projector masks, and much more. 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 explains the formation of the early universe. At 2:30 p.m. weekdays. Admission to the museum is free, but suggested donation is $6. Planetarium price is $4.75. University of Michigan Campus, 1109 Geddes, Ann Arbor; 734-764-0478; lsa.umich.edu/exhibitmuseum.
Henry Ford Museum: Heroes of the Sky is a permanent exhibit focusing on adventures in early aviation.
• With Liberty and Justice for All highlights four pivotal periods of history, beginning with the American Revolution and ending in the 1960s. Permanent exhibit.
• Automobiles in American Life features automotive milestones, including the 15 millionth Model T, 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. Wilkinson Immigrant Ship Collection. Free. There’s also the International Café on the lower level. 111 E. Kirby, Detroit; 313-871-8600; iimd.org.
MUSIC
Bret Michaels: Bret Michaels has done everything. No, really. Most know him as frontman for the 1980’s glam band Poison, or the star of a VH1 reality show, but Michaels is also an accomplished film director, writer, actor, and producer. His production company (a joint effort with Charlie Sheen called Sheen/Michaels Productions) released a film in 1998 called Free Money, starring Marlon Brando, Donald Sutherland, and Mira Sorvino. 8 p.m. Oct. 2. $38-$56. MotorCity Casino Hotel, 2901 Grand River, Detroit; 313-237-7711.
Living Colour: This outfit broke the racial barriers that colored 1980s hard rock and, in turn, paved the way for more commercially successful rap-rock bands like Rage Against the Machine. Living Colour bring their blend of funk and metal to promote their newly released fifth album, The Chair in the Doorway, at 8 p.m. Oct. 2. $23 in advance. Magic Bag, 22920 Woodward, Ferndale; 248-544-3030.
KMFDM: Imagine mohawk-ed, leather-clad men wearing sunglasses indoors at a rave, plus one signature female (ever seen The Matrix ?). Then, imagine the type of music associated with that crowd and you’ve probably got a good idea of what to expect at a KMFDM gig. These industrial music pioneers celebrate 25 years of dark, Germanic tunes at 6 p.m. Oct. 2. $20. Harpo’s Concert Theatre, 14238 Harper, Detroit; 313-824-1700.
Built to Spill and Butthole Surfers: Boiling down a band like the Butthole Surfers, who have unrepentantly defiled audiences for almost 30 years, to a few sentences is nearly impossible. Instead, pick up Michael Azerrad’s book on ’80s indie-rock, Our Band Could Be Your Life, if only for the raucous chapter on the Surfers. Built to Spill, on the other hand, is a rock band that employs two guys with beards, and two other guys without beards. OK, so maybe you should just check them out for yourself. 8 p.m. Oct. 3. $25. Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. Fourth St., Royal Oak; 248-399-2980.
Mono: This Japanese post-rock band plays instrumental tunes in the vein of Mogwai or Explosions in the Sky. They aren’t to be confused with the British one-hit wonder of the same name, whose song, “Life in Mono,” played as the credits rolled on the film adaptation of Great Expectations. To add to the confusion, one of Mono’s members shares a name with the Star Wars character Yoda. It’s fitting though, considering the band’s music conjures up galaxies far, far away. 8 p.m. Oct. 3. $10-$12. The Magic Stick, 4120 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-9700.
Natalie Cole: The multiple-Grammy award winning artist — made famous by hits ranging from “This Will Be” to the more recent tunes of her Still Unforgettable album — performs at the MotorCity. Cole brings her classic R&B music from her younger days, as well as her more pop-oriented songs from the ’90s and beyond. 8 p.m. Oct. 3. $55-$75. MotorCity Casino Hotel, 2901 Grand River, Detroit; 313-237-7711.
Cowboy Junkies: Despite having a name that implies nothing but country, this Canadian alternative rock group also incorporates a little bit of jazz and the blues into their music. Originally formed in Toronto by Michael, Peter, and Margo Timmons, the band has seen great success in their native country and will be bringing their act across the Detroit River. 8 p.m. Oct. 5. $35. The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor; 734-761-1800.
Gaslight Anthem: The New Jersey rockers are still relatively new to the punk scene, but ever since the release of their 2007 album, Sink or Swim, they have hit the ground running. The following summer, The ’59 Sound was released and also gained critical acclaim. 6 p.m. Oct. 6. $15-$17. St. Andrew’s Hall, 431 E. Congress, Detroit; 313-961-8137.
Monotonix: Fans attending this show had better be prepared, because Monotonix is known for much more than just their music. The Israeli band members are known to destroy their instruments, set them on fire, climb tall objects, and cause overall chaos during their concerts. In Tel Aviv, the trio’s reputation grew to the point that only a few venues would allow them to play. Now, that same reputation is on full display in America, but slightly more welcomed. 8 p.m. Oct. 6. $10. The Magic Stick, 4120 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-9700.
Miley Cyrus: The Cyrus family is quickly becoming a musical dynasty. Both of Miley’s albums debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard charts. Her father, country singer Billy Ray Cyrus, scored a hit with “Achy Breaky Heart” in 1992 — the same year Miley was born. Her brother plays guitar and sings for the dance-pop band Metro Station, who will support the raspy-voiced teen idol on her tour. Donny and Marie better watch out! 7 p.m. Oct. 6. $42.50-$82.50. Palace of Auburn Hills, 4 Championship Dr., Auburn Hills; 248-377-0100.
Om: In 2003, the doom band Sleep posthumously released the 70-plus minute stoner-metal opus, Dopesmoker. Sleep’s two-man rhythm section formed the downbeat, drony Om. With song titles like “Meditation Is the Practice of Death,” off their newly released album, God Is Good, one can expect either a transcendent experience or to be put back to sleep. 8 p.m. Oct. 8. $12-$14. The Magic Stick, 4120 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-9700.
They Might Be Giants: Two nerdy guys, both named John, began performing experimental pop music in early ’80s Brooklyn, employing drum machines, guitar, and accordion. They recorded songs onto an answering machine and published the phone number in New York newspapers before (and after) attaining widespread popularity. With the same clever approach, TMBG have won multiple Grammys (one for the theme song to Malcolm in the Middle ) and worldwide success. Recently, the band released a couple of children’s albums. Time and ticket prices TBA. Oct. 8. St. Andrew’s Hall, 431 E. Congress, Detroit; 313-961-8137.
The Verve Pipe: Although lead singer Brian Vander Ark has established himself as an active solo artist in recent years, the Verve Pipe haven’t released any new material since 2001’s Underneath. The Grand Rapids-based band never formally disbanded, though, and will perform acoustic versions of their songs at 8 p.m. Oct. 10. $25. The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor; 734-761-1800.
Dinosaur Jr.: It’s appropriate that certain European copies of Dinosaur Jr.’s latest album, Farm, were recalled for being too loud. The grunge trailblazers first unleashed their ear-splitting decibels upon the Massachusetts hard-core scene in 1984. Though Dinosaur Jr. officially disbanded in 1999, the band was virtually frontman J. Mascis’ solo outfit throughout most of the ’90s. Then, in 2007, all the original members regrouped to release a critically acclaimed new album, picking up right where they left off 20 years prior. 8 p.m. Oct. 11. $25. The Crofoot, 1 S. Saginaw, Pontiac; 248-858-9333.
Psychedelic Furs: The Psychedelic Furs’ song “Pretty in Pink” inspired the classic John Hughes-penned film of the same name. The Furs re-recorded the song for the Brat Pack flick that stars Molly Ringwald and Jon Cryer. 6:30 p.m. Oct. 13. $25. Clutch Cargo’s, 65 E. Huron, Pontiac; 248-333-2362.
Wilco: Fifteen years into their career, Wilco is a live force to be reckoned with. On the heels of a new album that’s poised to become their most commercially successful one to date, the band has been pushing the three-hour mark during blazing sets that span seven full-length albums and numerous sub-genres of quintessential rock ’n’ roll. 7:30 p.m. Oct. 16. $30. Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University, Ann Arbor; 734-763-3333
The Airborne Toxic Event: Mike Jollett formed T.A.T.E. after having a horrible week. He had been working on a novel — which explains the Don DeLillo-referencing handle — and instead, turned it into an album. The band operates in the same sonic realm as the Arcade Fire or U2, blending string flourishes with cinematic guitar climaxes. 7 p.m. Oct. 22. $15 in advance. The Crofoot, 1 S. Saginaw, Pontiac; 248-858-9333.
The Raveonettes: This Danish male/female rock duo make music that recalls uncomplicated ’50’s rock ’n’ roll filtered through a tortuous web of post-modern noise. Their first full-length album was entirely in the key of B-flat major. Their new album, In and Out of Control, just dropped this month. 8 p.m. Oct. 23. $13-$15. The Magic Stick, 4120 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-9700.
The Get Up Kids: The latest in a slew of second-wave emo bands to regroup, the Get Up Kids have a sort-of love/hate relationship with both their audience and critics. Anyone who was between the ages of 13 and 20 when their seminal album, Something to Write Home About, came out in 1999, tend to lean toward love. 7 p.m. Oct. 24. $20-$23. The Majestic Theatre, 4120 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-9700.
The Damned: The longevity of an average punk band typically mimics the length of their songs. Luckily for The Damned, an average punk band they are not. The band came up in the same scene as the Sex Pistols, but has outlasted their fellow U.K. compatriots by more than 40 years. 8:30 p.m. Oct. 24. $23-$25. St. Andrew’s Hall, 431 E. Congress, Detroit; 313-961-8137.
Ingrid Michaelson: Michaelson is kind of like the new Lisa Loeb. Both are bespectacled, New York-based Jewish songwriters who sing about love and loss while maintaining self-respecting images — a young man would love to introduce either one to his mother. But Michaelson hasn’t had a hit as big as Loeb’s “Stay (I Miss You)”…yet. 8 p.m. Oct. 27. $25. The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor; 734-761-1800.
Richard Thompson & Loudon Wainwright III: Thompson was born in 1949 in Notting Hill, West London; Wainwright was born in 1946 in Chapel Hill, N.C. Thompson was married to Linda Thompson, and the two recorded six albums together. Wainwright is the father of Rufus and Martha, both accomplished songwriters, and has performed duets with both. Their parallel paths finally cross for a night billed as “Loud & Rich.” 7:30 p.m. Oct. 27. $25-$65. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor; 734-668-8397.
THEATER
Andiamo Celebrity Showroom: Join the celebration of Tony ’n’ Tina’s Wedding, in which audience members participate in the show. A ticket includes champagne toast, Andiamo buffet, and a piece of wedding cake. 7:30 p.m. Oct. 2. $63. 7096 E. 14 Mile Rd., Warren; 586-268-3200.
Bonstelle: The Talented Tenth ’s title is inspired by a 1903 W.E.B. Dubois article. The historic figure discussed “exceptional blacks who were destined to save their people from contamination and death.” The play centers on six friends and Howard University alumni who are faced with Dubois’ argument, 80 years after he brought the issue to light. Oct. 16-18 and 23-25. 3434 Woodward, Detroit; 313-577-2960.
Fox: Curious George comes alive onstage, along with the Man in the Yellow Hat, in a quest to win the Golden Meatball Contest. The toe-tapping musical is tailor-made for children and families. Oct. 15-18. $10. 2211 Woodward, Detroit; 313-471-6611.
Fisher: Based on the hit film Legally Blonde, the musical of the same name follows ditsy sorority girl Elle Woods, who spontaneously decides to attend Harvard Law School. Laugh and sing along with Elle as she hits in the books in style. Oct. 15-Nov. 1. 3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit; 313-872-1000.
Gem: Performing veteran Rita McKenzie, re-creates the golden age of Broadway by singing such Ethel Merman classics as “I’ve Got Rhythm” and “There’s no Business Like Show Business,” in the production Ethel Merman’s Broadway. Through Dec. 31. $25-$39.50. 333 Madison, Detroit; 313-963-9800; gemdetroit.com.
Hilberry: A Shakespearean masterpiece and a Greek classic combine on the Hilberry stage this month. The story of Eurydice is showcased with a more modern approach, while the always remarkable Hamlet is performed three weeks later. $10-$30. Oct. 3 and 24. 4743 Cass, Detroit; 313-577-2972.
Jewish Ensemble Theatre: Local playwright Kitty Dubin premieres her fourth play, The Blank Page. It follows a creative-writing professor struggling to revive her once-successful literary career. $30-$39. Oct. 13-Nov. 9. 6600 W. Maple, West Bloomfield; 248-788-2900.
Meadow Brook: The classic The Legend of the Sleep Hollow premieres at the Meadow Brook Theatre — just in time for Halloween. The story by Washington Irving relates the story of Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horsemen. $24-$39. Oct. 7-Nov. 1. 207 Wilson Hall, Oakland University, Rochester; 248-377-3300.
The Studio Theatre: Set in Harlem during the Great Depression, Blues for an Alabama Sky tells the tale of two African-Americans’ economic and social struggles during the nation’s toughest time. $10-$12. Oct. 23-25, 30-Nov. 1. 4743 Cass, Detroit, on the lower level of the Hilberry Theatre; 313-577-2972.
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