Art
The Anton Art Center
• Macomb Community College Workforce and Continuing Education Show. April 21-May 11.
• Portrait Show, an open-call exhibition.
125 Macomb Place, Mount Clemens; 586-469-8666; theartcenter.org.
Cass Café
The latest paintings by artist Gary Mayer on display in a solo exhibition titled Nature Unrepentant. Through May 25.
Cass Café, 4620 Cass Ave., Detroit; 313-831-1400; casscafe.com.
Cranbrook Art Museum
In Danish ceramist Anders Ruhwald’s first solo exhibition in Michigan, he’ll present his investigations into the nature of Modernism in the exhibit titled Anders Ruhwald at Saarinen House: The Anatomy of a Home. May-October.
39221 Woodward, Bloomfield Hills; 248-645-3300; cranbrookart.edu/museum.
Detroit Artists Market
Line by Line: Drawing Explored, an exhibit that examines the medium of drawing.
4719 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-993-7831; detroitartistsmarket.org.
Detroit Institute of Arts
• An overview of the colorful prints by Ellsworth Kelly will be on display. May 24-Sept. 8.
• Iranian-American artist Shirin Neshat will confront the complexities of identity, gender, and power through eight video installations and two series of art photography. Public programs and an illustrated catalogue will accompany the exhibit. Through July 7.
No admission fee for residents of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties. Others: $8 adults; $6 seniors; $4 youth 6-17; under 5 free. (Special exhibit fees may apply for all.) 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tue.-Thu.; 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri.; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.-Sun.; closed Mon.
5200 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-7900; dia.org.
Elaine L. Jacob Gallery
Hypertension. April 26-July 19.
480 W. Hancock, Detroit; 313-993-7813; art.wayne.edu/jacob_gallery.
Flint Institute of Arts
• The art of model shipbuilding will be on display in Ship Shape: Models of Great Lakes Vessels, an exhibit from the Dossin Great Lakes Museum.
• Through 50 paintings created between 1828-1945, Reflection on Water in American Painting: The Phelan Collection travels through maritime and seaside history of America, capturing every aspect of life on or in the water.
• Great Lakes Painting: The Inlander Collection, pays tribute to artists who have worked in the Great Lakes region. Through June 16. Free admission, special exhibits range from $5-$7.
1120 E. Kearsley St., Flint; 810-234-1695; flintarts.org.
The Gallery Project:
Circus investigates the history, politics, and aesthetics of circuses and their performers. March 28-May 4.
215 E. Fourth St., Ann Arbor; 734-997-7012; thegalleryproject.com.
Habatat Galleries
• Over 90 artists from 18 countries will display glasswork at the 41st Annual International Glass Invitational Award Exhibition.
• eXpose will display works from more than 25 artists never before seen at this gallery. Until May 25.
4400 Fernlee Ave., Royal Oak; 248-554-0590; habatat.com.
Lawrence Street Gallery:
The vibrant paintings of Alice Frank will be on display for the month of May.
22620 Woodward Ave., Suite A, Ferndale; 248-544-0394; lawrencestreetgallery.com.
Toledo Museum of Art:
For the first time in the region, a collection of works by indigenous Australians will be exhibited in Crossing Cultures: The Owen and Wagner Collection of Contemporary Aboriginal Australian Art from the Hood Museum of Art. April 12-July 14. Free admission. (Some special exhibits require purchased tickets.)
10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tue.-Thu.; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri.; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat.; noon-6 p.m. Sun.
2445 Monroe, Toledo; 419-255-8000; toledomuseum.org.
University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA):
The national touring exhibit features 60 drawings, ink paintings, calligraphic works and sculptures, and interpretive materials from this museum and others. May 18-Sept. 1.
Admission is free, donations accepted. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.-Sat. 12-5 p.m. Sun.
525 S. State St., Ann Arbor; 734-764-0395; umma.umich.edu.
Wayne State University Art Department Gallery
• Undergraduate exhibition. Through May 10.
• Art education exhibit. May 24-June 21.
150 Art Building, Detroit; 313-993-7813; art.wayne.edu.
Classical
Cantata Academy Chorale
Under the direction of Susan Catanese, the Cantata Academy Chorale will perform a collage of choral music of varying styles, composers, and genres. 4 p.m. May 19.
Meadowbrook Congregational Church, 21355 Meadowbrook Rd., Novi; 248-348-7757; cantataacademy.org.
Chamber Music Society of Detroit
Cellist Lynn Harrell will collaborate with pianist Anne-Marie McDermott on three Beethoven sonatas. 8 p.m. May 18. $15-$60.
Seligman Performing Arts Center, 22305 W. 13 Mile Rd., Beverly Hills; 248-855-6070; chambermusicdetroit.org.
Cranbrook Music Guild
Presented along with classical radio station WRCJ, a brass quartet comprised of DSO musicians will perform chamber music. 3 p.m. May 5.
Christ Church Cranbrook, 470 Church Rd., Bloomfield Hills; 248-645-0097; cranbrookmusicguild.org.
Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings
The award-winning reed quintet Akropolis will perform at Hagopian World of Rugs. 8 p.m. May 17. $10-$22.
Hagopian World of Rugs, 850 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham. detroitchamberwinds.org.
Detroit Symphony Orchestra
• Pianist Rafal Blechacz and the Women of the Michigan State University Chorale and State Singers will perform pieces by Ligeti, Chopin, and Holst. 8 p.m. May 3-4. $15+.
• Conductor Leonard Slatkin will lead five DSO vocalists as they perform symphonies 1 and 3 by Charles Ives, and The Seven Deadly Sins by Kurt Weill. 7 p.m. May 7. $25+.
• Violinist Yoonshin Song and horn player Karl Pituch will be led by Leonard Slatkin in a performance of pieces by Ottorino Respighi, Kerry Turner, and Johannes Brahms. 7:30 p.m. May 23. 10:45 a.m. May 24. $15+.
• Pianist André Watts will perform pieces by Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Edward MacDowell, and Missy Mazzoli. 10:45 a.m. May 31.
Orchestra Hall, 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-576-5111; dso.org.
Fort Street Chorale and Chamber Orchestra
The ensemble will perform Johannes Brahms’ Requiem in English. 3 p.m. May 5. $15-$20.
Fort Street Presbyterian Church, 631 W. Fort St., Detroit; 313-961-4533; fortstreet.org.
Michigan Opera
Set in ancient Egypt during a time of war, Giuseppe Verdi’s Italian opera Aida tells the story of an Ethiopian princess who becomes torn between her country and her love for the Egyptian military commander. The production will be sung in Italian with English translations projected above the stage. May 11-19. $25+.
1526 Broadway, Detroit; 313-237-7464; michiganopera.org.
Events
Cranbrook House Presents
A Race Through Time: This derby dedication offers guests the chance to enjoy the Booth family hat collection, as well as an exclusive peek into Ellen Booth’s bedroom suite and other rarely seen treasures. A derby day would be incomplete without dashing sported fashions by its spectators. Guests are encouraged to attend in their finest styles. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. May 2. Box lunch served at 12:15 p.m. $30.
Cranbrook House Gardens, 380 Lone Pine Road, Bloomfield Hills; 248-645-3147, housegardens.cranbrook.edu.
Michigan International Women’s Show
It’s an apparel, garment, cosmetic, and beauty show — the largest of its kind. You can find gift assortments, fragrances, and accessories from exhibitors from all around the country. 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. May 2 & 4. 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. May 3. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. May 5. $10 adults. $5 children ages 6-12.
Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River, Novi; 248-347-7720, suburbancollectionshowplace.com.
2013 Pairing Great Brands Wine Tasting Experience
Indulge in wine selections from California, France, Italy, Michigan, New York, South Africa, Spain, and Washington. This is a rare opportunity to let your palate roam virtually every continent, in the ambience of Detroit’s Charles H. Wright Museum. $60. 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. May 3.
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, 315 E. Warren, Detroit; 313-494-5800, chwmuseum.org.
Guts and Glory
An Evening with Anthony Bourdain: Foodies know him as the famed “chef-at-large” at New York’s Brasserie Les Halles, and to most of us, he’s the globe-trotting, world-cuisine connoisseur from his TV shows Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations and The Layover. He’s also the author of the bestseller Kitchen Confidential, and also A Cook’s Tour, three crime novels, a cookbook, and a biography of Typhoid Mary. Join Chef Bourdain for a VIP meet-and-greet at Red Haven, 4480 S. Hagadorn, in Okemos. 7:30 p.m. May 7. $38-153.
Wharton Center’s Cobb Great Hall, Bogue and Shaw, East Lansing; 517-432-2000, whartoncenter.com.
Great Lakes Mega Meet Scrapbook Convention
Three days of cropping, classes, and shopping comprise the Midwest’s largest scrapbook convention. With the “sky-high” supply of scrapbook materials present, guests are assured that the sky’s the limit. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. May 9-10. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. May 11. $10, cash only. Free ages 6 & under. Umbrella strollers only. $5 parking fee.
Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River, Novi; 248-347-7720, suburbancollectionshowplace.com.
Mother’s Day Breakfast at the Detroit Zoo
Celebrate the special women in your family with breakfast among the butterflies. Breakfast will be held in the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery, and the kids can make Mom a special gift. Food will be served from 8 a.m. – 10 a.m. May 12. $30 adults. $25 for children ages 14 & under.
Detroit Zoological Society, 8450 W. 10 Mile Rd., Royal Oak; (248) 541-5717, detroitzoo.org/events.
Royal Oak in Bloom
The open-air market will feature everything from flowers to landscaping décor, brought in by more than 70 vendors. Taking place in the William Street parking lot in front of City Hall, it will be a day of color, vibrancy, and garden treasures. 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. May 12.
City of Royal Oak, 211 S. William Street, Royal Oak; 248-246-3000, ci.royal-oak.mi.us.
Motor City Comic Con
Since 1989, the Motor City Comic Con has reigned as Michigan’s largest comic book event. This year, the convention is pleased to present the one and only Stan Lee, the iconic comic legend and creator of Spider-Man. 12:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. May 18. 10:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. May 19. 10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. May 20. $5 parking fee.
Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River, Novi; 248-347-7720, suburbancollectionshowplace.com.
47th Annual Flower Day 2013
Flower Day at Eastern Market is one of the country’s largest flower shows and a great excuse to enjoy the natural beauty of Detroit. Members of the Metro Detroit Flowers Growers Association and hundreds of other flower growers from around the state and Canada will provide over 15 acres of quality annuals, perennials, foliage, shrubbery, trees, exotics, tropical plants, flats, hanging baskets, and more. 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. May 19.
Eastern Market, 2456 Market Street, Detroit; 313-567-8359, detroiteasternmarket.com.
Film
Redford Theatre
The Redford Theatre will be closed to the public for restoration in May and June.
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.
• Little Syria, NY exhibits an immigrant community’s life and legacy in late 1800s in Manhattan.
$6 adults; $3 students and seniors; children under 5 free.
13624 Michigan Ave., Dearborn; 313-582-2266; arabamericanmuseum.org.
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
• And Still We Rise: Our Journey Through African American History and Culture is an evolving exhibit that recounts the 3.5-million-year-old odyssey that begins in Africa and ends in Detroit. Ongoing in the Core Exhibition Gallery.
• A collective sculptural show, Visions of Our 44th President, features 44 3-dimensional interpretations of President Obama. Through Aug. 4.
• Inspiring Minds: African Americans in Science and Technology is a new permanent exhibit highlighting African American contributions to the four disciplines of scientific advancement since the 17th century.
• Stories in Stained Glass: The Art of Samuel A. Hodge, a series of 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.
• Ring of Genealogy, a work designed by local artist Hubert Massey, depicts the struggles of African-Americans in the United States.
$8 adults. $5 seniors (62+). $5 youth (3-12). Free for children under 3.
315 E. Warren, Detroit; 313-494-5800; thewright.org.
Cranbrook Institute of Science
• Ongoing exhibits are The Story of Us, a nationally regarded anthropology collection; People of the Woodlands: Objects of Great Lakes Native America, a review of objects, practices, and the environment of Great Lakes native peoples and their complex connection; and Astronomy Lobby, a self-updating display from the Space Telescope Science Institute.
$12.50 adults. $9.50 children (2-12) and seniors (65+).
39221 Woodward Ave, Bloomfield Hills; 248-645-3200, science.cranbrook.edu.
Detroit Historical Museum
• New permanent exhibits include Doorway to Freedom: Detroit & the Underground Railroad, which explores Detroit’s role as the “doorway to freedom” in fugitive slaves’ quest to find freedom in the North.
• The Allesee Gallery of Culture highlights the people, places, and events that influence our understanding of modern Detroit.
• Detroit: Arsenal of Democracy documents the contributions Detroit’s industrial infrastructure made in World War II and also explores how the war changed the city.
• Robert Scherer and Henry Ford are just a few inventors featured in The Gallery of Innovation, an exhibit featuring Detroit innovators and the products they created that we still use today.
5401 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-1805; detroithistorical.org.
Dossin Great Lakes Museum
• After months of renovation, the museum reopens on May 18. Built by the River is a new exhibit that explores Detroit’s maritime history.
• City on the Straits, a signature exhibit, surveys the region’s natural environment and the economic development influenced by the natural resources of the Great Lakes and the Detroit River.
• The Gothic Room mimics the original gentleman’s lounge of the City of Detroit III, a vessel from the early 1900s. The room’s Lasalle Window, a stained-glass window, is a truly unique example of Great Lakes maritime architecture.
• The S.S. William Clay Ford was a Great Lakes freighter built in 1953, resigning in 1987, which transported tons of iron ore and coal from the upper Great Lakes to the River Rouge Steel Plant. Walk its floors, stand at its wheel, and look through its windows and onto the Detroit River at the S.S. William Clay Ford Pilot House.
100 Strand, Belle Isle, Detroit; 313-833-1805; detroithistorical.org/main/dossin.
Exhibit Museum of Natural History
• RACE: Are We So Different? is a national traveling exhibit exploring the similarities among different nationalities. Through May 27.
• Archeology! Current Research in the University of Michigan Museum of Anthropology is an ongoing research exhibit that examines questions that contemporary archeologists ask about the past and the techniques they use to answer them.
• Permanent exhibits are The Hall of Evolution, The Michigan Wildlife Gallery, The Anthropology Displays, and The Geology Displays. Free admission; suggested donation is $6.
University of Michigan, 1109 Geddes, Ann Arbor; 734-764-0478; lsa.umich.edu/exhibitmuseum.
Greenfield Village
The Village is now open seven days a week through Nov. 3. Travel through time in the Village’s seven historic districts, the Railroad Junction, Working Farms, Edison at Work, Porches and Parlors, Liberty Craftworks, Main Street, and Henry Ford’s Model T. 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. $24 adults. $ 22 seniors (ages 62+). $17.50 youth (ages 5-12). Free ages 4 & under.
20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn; 313-982-6001; hfmgv.org/village.
Henry Ford Museum
• Designing Tomorrow: America’s World’s Fairs of the 1930s, runs through Sept. 2. The exhibit looks at six Depression-era fairs, which heavily influenced modernism and consumerism.
• With Liberty and Justice for All chronicles America’s journeys to freedom, beginning with the American Revolution and ending with the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s.
•Heroes of the Sky is a permanent exhibit focusing on adventures in early aviation.
• Driving America includes more than 100 vehicles, authentic artifacts, digital media, interactive play, and personal accounts that examine the influence the automobile has had on American culture. $17 adults; $15 seniors age 62 and up; $12.50 youth; free for children 4 and under.
• Also: Presidential Limousines, Made in America, and Rosa Parks Bus. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Mon.-Thu. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn; 313-982-6001; thehenryford.org.
Holocaust Memorial Center
Exhibits are dedicated to preserving the memory of the Holocaust. Learn about World War II, Jewish culture and religious beliefs, the postwar world, heroic rescues, and more. The center also houses a multilingual library. $5-$8 admission.
28123 Orchard Lake Rd., Farmington Hills; 248-553-2400; holocaustcenter.org.
Michigan Science Center
• Bodies: Human Anatomy in Motion examines the effects of health and lifestyle choices on the inner workings of the human body. Through May 26.
• Featured ongoing exhibits are Space; Health and Nutrition; Motion; and Engineering, which includes a mini-Mackinac Bridge.
$12.95 adults, $9.95 seniors and youth, children under 2 free. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Wed., 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Thu.-Fri., 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sat. – Sun., noon – 6 p.m.
5020 John R St., Detroit; 313-577-8400; michigansciencecenter.org.
Motown Museum
• Guided tours of the museum include The Gallery, which is composed of original stage uniforms worn by famous Motown artists, sheet music, rare photos, and other memorabilia.
• Studio A, where Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross & the Supremes, and other Motown artists recorded still contains the original instruments and equipment used during Detroit’s Motown era.
• Other attractions include Berry Gordy’s Apartment, The Echo Chamber, and Motown Style, which is home to the jeweled white glove made famous by Michael Jackson.
2648 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit; 313-875-2264; motownmuseum.com.
Plymouth Historical Museum
Walk down the museum’s “Main Street” and enjoy the new special exhibit, Made in America, highlighting America’s contributions to industry, with emphasis on Michigan-made products. Through June 9. 1 p.m.-4 p.m., Wed., Fri., Sat., & Sun. $5 adults; $2 children.
155 S. Main Street, Plymouth; 734-455-8940, plymouthhistory.org.
Music
Billy Bragg & Kim Churchill
After playing London’s pubs and clubs in the late 1970s, Billy Bragg abandoned music and joined the British Army. He passed basic training but ended up buying his way out for 175 English pounds. Bragg soon began performing again, but his demo tape got little response until he snuck into the office of Charisma Records in the guise of a TV repairman. Although the label wouldn’t sign Bragg, they agreed to release his demos. Since then, Bragg’s career has spawned hundreds of politically charged punk and folk songs and spanned more than three decades. Bragg comes back to town along with Kim Churchill, who got her first guitar at the age of 4 and hasn’t stopped playing since. 8 p.m. May 1. $40.
The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor; 734-761-1800.
For Pete’s Sake
A Pete Seeger Birthday Tribute: To mark the 94th birthday of Pete Seeger, a group of local performers will tell stories and, in Seeger tradition, lead sing-alongs. Even though he’s rounding 94, Seeger remains involved in music, politics, and philanthropy. And his love for music is just as strong now as it was when he first picked up a ukulele at the age of 4. 8 p.m. May 2. $10.
The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor; 734-761-1800.
Joe Bonamassa
Joe Bonamassa began his career in a band called Bloodline, which also featured the relatives of famous musicians, including Miles Davis, Robby Krieger of the Doors, and Berry Oakley of the Allman Brothers Band. Bonamassa’s parents owned a guitar shop and fostered his musical talents from the age of 4. He released his first album in 2000 and has collaborated with B.B. King and Eric Clapton. Bonamassa is primarily a blues-rock artist but has added an Eastern influence in his music since relocating to Greece in 2009. 8 p.m. May 3. $69+.
Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward, Detroit; 313-983-6000.
James Blake
Also known as Harmonimix, James Blake is an English electronic music producer and singer. Since his debut in 2010, Blake has garnered many accolades, including BBC’s “Sound of 2011,” and BRIT Awards “Critics’ Choice.” Blake is best-known for his collaboration with Bon Iver, “Fall Creek Boys Choir,” and the intimate atmosphere at his shows. 8 p.m. May 3. $20.
The Magic Stick, 4120 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-9700.
Mountain Heart
American jam band Mountain Heart has been described as “slam grass” and “folk rock on steroids.” The group has appeared on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry over 130 times and has been featured on several PBS series. Mountain Heart was formed in 1998 and has seen many members over the years. In 2012, they welcomed their newest addition, Seth Taylor, an 18-year-old guitar prodigy. Recently, they founded their own record label and will be returning to the Ark, the venue where they recorded their 2007 live album, The Road That Never Ends. 8 p.m. May 3. $30.
The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor; 734-761-1800.
Bill Frisell
Known for his array of techniques to create unique sounds from his guitar, Bill Frisell and his music are progressive, classical, country, and noise all at once. As a youth, he studied clarinet with the Denver Symphony Orchestra and later attended the University of Northern Colorado and Berklee College of Music. His major break came in the early ’80s when he landed a gig as ECM Records’ in-house guitar player. Frisell’s latest album, All We Are Saying, is a collection of his interpretations of John Lennon’s music. 8 p.m. May 4. $30.
The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor; 734-761-1800.
The O’Jays
While they were still in high school in Canton, Ohio, Eddie Levert, William Powell, Walter Williams, Bobby Massey, and Bill Isles formed The O’Jays in 1958. The group found R&B success throughout the 1960s but considered quitting the music industry in 1972 when Isles and Massey left. The group decided to continue releasing music as a trio until 1997, when Powell died. The O’Jays once again had to decide the fate of their group, and chose to continue recording with the addition of Sammy Strain. Their perseverance through the years paid off when they were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2004 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005. 7 p.m. May 4. $69+
Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward, Detroit; 313-983-6000.
Taylor Swift with Ed Sheeran
Raised in Pennsylvania, Taylor Swift moved to Nashville when she was 14. Her “love story” with music began at a very young age, when she won numerous talent shows and poetry contests, and modeled in Abercrombie & Fitch’s “Rising Stars” campaign. Swift brings British crooner Ed Sheeran as her opening act for the Red tour. Sheeran’s recent single, “The A-Team,” has raised awareness for charities dedicated to helping prostitutes, the inspiration for the song. “It’s good to show insight that these people are real people with real emotions,” Sheeran says. “They deserve the same charity work as anyone else.” Hopefully, this A-Team brings their A-game at 6:30 p.m. May 4. $119+.
Ford Field. 2000 Brush. Detroit; 313-262-2000.
Carrie Underwood
As the fourth winner of American Idol, Carrie Underwood has become a successful country music singer, songwriter, and actress. She holds the record for most No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs list by a female artist. Underwood auditioned for Capitol Records when she was 14 years old and almost signed a record deal, but the contract was canceled at the last minute. She says she believes this was for the best and that she wouldn’t have been ready at such a young age. Among Underwood’s accomplishments: the title of “World’s Sexiest Vegetarian,” voted by PETA magazine. In the article, Underwood says: “Ever since I was little I loved animals … If you told me I could never sing again, I’d say that was horrible, but it’s not my life. If you told me I could never be around animals again, I would just die.” 7:30 p.m. May 5. $43.50+.
The Huntington Center. 500 Jefferson Ave, Toledo; 419-255-3300.
Paramore
Hayley Williams, Jeremy Davis, Jason Bynum, and Josh and Zac Farro officially formed Paramore in 2004. The male members were initially unsure of a woman joining the group, but made an exception for their friend Williams. She proved her loyalty when she was the only one signed to Atlantic Records, who wanted to turn her into a pop singer. She resisted, and Atlantic allowed her to play alternative rock music with her original band behind her. Bynum and the Farro brothers have since left the group but Paramore is currently touring with a combination of Williams, Davis, Jon Howard, Hayden Scott, and Taylor and Justin York. 7 p.m. May 10. $36.50+.
The Fillmore, 2115 Woodward, Detroit; 313-961-5451.
Black Moth Super Rainbow
Black Moth Super Rainbow is veiled in mystery; little is known about this American experimental band fronted by Thomas Fec, better known as Tobacco. The group scheduled its fifth album to be released in 2011, but it was canceled at the last minute because, according to Tobacco, it wasn’t good enough to spend money on. In 2012, they created a Kickstarter campaign to fund the release of their new album, quickly reaching their fundraising goal. 8 p.m. May 10. $15.
The Magic Stick, 4120 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-9700.
The Breeders
In 1990, Pixies bassist Kim Deal started to write songs to form a new group with Tanya Donelly, of Throwing Muses. The group’s most successful album was 1993’s Last Splash, best known for the single “Cannonball.” Deal is the only continual member of the group, which has featured more than 10 different artists. It’s currently made up of Josephine Wiggs, Jim Macpherson, Kim Deal, and her twin sister, Kelley, who rejoined the group after being involved in a drug bust that put the Breeders on hiatus. They’re currently reunited to play a Last Splash 20-year anniversary tour. 8 p.m. May 12. $20.
The Magic Stick, 4120 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-9700.
The Airborne Toxic Event
The Airborne Toxic Event consists of Mikel Jollett, Steven Chen, Noah Harmon, Daren Taylor, and Anna Bulbrook. The band’s unique name comes from a section of the book White Noise by Don DeLillo. Known for their mix of rock music with orchestral instruments, the band often performs with string quartets. Jollett began writing songs in 2006 in the midst of a breakup, found out his mom had cancer, and was diagnosed with a genetic autoimmune disease. He later joined with the other members and found commercial success with a self-titled album in 2008. 8 p.m. May 15. $20.
The Majestic Theatre, 4120 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-9700.
Cheap Trick
Known in the Japanese press as the “American Beatles,” Cheap Trick has been churning out catchy pop-rock since 1973. A popular rumor says the band got its name from a Ouija board, but it actually originated when the band attended a concert and bassist Tom Petersson commented that the band used “every cheap trick in the book.” Cheap Trick is known for its use of many vintage guitars, and lead guitarist Rick Nielsen has a personal collection of over 400. 8 p.m. May 16. 35+.
Sound Board at MotorCity Casino Hotel, 2901 Grand River, Detroit; 313-237-7711.
Vampire Weekend
Ezra Koenig, Rostam Batmanglij, Chris Tomson, and Chris Baio started out as as a rap collaboration while students at Columbia University. The guys bonded over their love of a weird combination of music — punk and African, which they still incorporate into their sound. Fans have been waiting patiently while the band has taken three years to release a new album. Koenig describes Modern Vampires of the City as “darker and more organic” than its previous two and says that it’s “very much the last of a trilogy.” 7 p.m. May 17. $33.50+.
The Fillmore, 2115 Woodward, Detroit; 313-961-5451.
Rodriguez
The 2012 Oscar-winning documentary Searching for Sugar Man has revived the tragically dormant career of Rodriguez. Born Sixto Rodriguez in Detroit in 1942, his career was short-lived, releasing just two albums in the 1970s before falling into obscurity. Unbeknownst to him, his music became wildly popular in South Africa. Rodriguez knew nothing of his legend abroad until he came across a website dedicated to him in 1998. He then went on a South African tour playing his signature song, “Sugar Man.” 9 p.m. May 18. 35+.
The Masonic of Detroit, 500 Temple Ave., Detroit; 313-832-7100.
Chicago
Chicago describes itself as a “rock and roll band with horns.” What began as an experimental, politically charged group has since found a softer sound. Chicago is second only to the Beach Boys in Billboard singles and album success. The band was originally named the Chicago Transit Authority, but the actual Chicago Transit Authority threatened legal action so they shortened their name. With numerous lineup changes, Chicago has become one of the longest-running and most successful bands in history. 9 p.m. May 19. $30+.
The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor, 377 Riverside Drive East, Windsor; 888-345-5885.
Of Montreal
Like most great bands, Of Montreal was inspired by a failed romance. The name refers to a woman from Montreal who dated lead singer Kevin Barnes. The group has released 11 albums since forming in 1997 and is known for their many style changes through the years, beginning as an indie-pop group and transforming to an electronic sound. They’re also known for their gloomy lyrics mixed with upbeat, catchy melodies. 8 p.m. May 19. $15.
The Crofoot, 1 S. Saginaw, Pontiac; 248-858-9333.
Scotty McCreery
In 2011, at the ripe old age of 17, Scotty McCreery won American Idol. He then went on to record a full-length country album, as well as a Christmas CD. McCreery graduated from high school in 2012 and is currently attending North Carolina State University. 9 p.m. May 18. $118.
The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor, 377 Riverside Drive E., Windsor; 888-345-5885.
Fall Out Boy
Bandmates Pete Wentz and Joe Trohman met then high-school student Patrick Stump at a bookstore in Illinois. Stump originally auditioned for drummer, but when they discovered his vocal range, he became the band’s lead singer. Eventually, Andy Hurley joined on drums, and the nameless group began playing shows. They started to record their first album but ran out of money halfway through the process. They asked the studio, which provided them with drinks during recording, to give them small amounts of food instead. After achieving commercial success, they took a two-year hiatus while each member worked on solo projects before they reunited for a new album. 7 p.m. May 22. $35+.
The Fillmore, 2115 Woodward, Detroit; 313-961-5451.
Tim McGraw
Samuel Timothy McGraw has had 11 consecutive albums debut at No. 1 on the Billboard album charts. His 2006 tour with his wife, Faith Hill, was the highest-grossing in country music history. McGraw didn’t start playing guitar until college and claims his roommates often hid his instrument because he was so bad. Besides a successful music career, McGraw has branched off into acting, starring in CSI, Friday Night Lights, The Blind Side, and Country Strong. He’s also involved with many charitable efforts, and donated $5,000 to the daughter of a fallen Grand Rapids police officer. A Democrat, McGraw hopes to run for public office someday. 7 p.m. May 19. $35+.
DTE Energy Music Theatre, 7774 Sashabaw Rd., Clarkston; 248-377-0100.
Movement Electronic Music Festival
The 2013 Movement Electronic Music Festival will feature 38 artists including the anticipated return of international techno pioneer Richie Hawtin, radio personality John Digweed, The Big Gigantic, and Detroit techno icons Derrick May and Kevin Saunderson. The festival has been named “Best Niche Festival” by Rolling Stone and “Number one outstanding music fest” by the New York Post. Tickets are on sale now for Memorial Day weekend. May 25, 26, 27. $39+.
Hart Plaza, 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit; 313-877-8057.
Of Monsters and Men
Icelandic 6-piece Of Monsters and Men describe themselves as an “amiable group of day dreamers who craft folkie pop songs.” They’ve experienced a quick rise to fame: forming in 2009, winning an Icelandic battle of the bands in 2010, and issuing a worldwide album release in 2011. Best known for the hit single “Little Talks,” Of Monsters and Men says their music “is meant to be fun to sing along to.” 7 p.m. May 28. $20+.
Meadow Brook Music Festival, 3554 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills; 248-377-0100.
Theater
The Boll Family YMCA Theater
Written by Pulitzer Prize winner August Wilson, Gem of the Ocean tells the story of Aunt Ester, a 287-year-old family matriarch and former slave, as she teaches her houseguests about healing, redemption, and forgiveness. Until May 12. $10, $27.50, $32.
3663 Woodward Ave. Suite 150, Detroit; 313-744-3181; plowshares.org.
The City Theatre
Thanks to overwhelming demand after the show’s first run at the City Theatre, SPANK! The Fifty Shades Parody will return for eight additional performances. May 1-5. $45.50.
2301 Woodward Ave, Detroit; 800-745-3000; olympiaentertainment.com.
Detroit Repertory Theatre
• In a play about mothers and daughters, race, identity, and poetry, Roaming Charges tells the story of young Lacey Cubbard as she’s woven into a tangled and tortuous pattern.
• When Architect Earl Leighton hosts a family gathering to announce he’s building a skyscraper, his announcement is dulled when it’s revealed he’s losing his memory in A Thousand Circlets. Until May 19.
13103 Woodrow Wilson, Detroit; 313-868-3686; detroitreptheater.com.
Eastern Michigan University Theatre
In a musical comedy based on the children’s book The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen, Honk! follows an optimistic duckling on his search for his mother. May 31-June 9. $7-$15.
103 Quirk Building, Ypsilanti; 734-487-2282; emich.edu/emutheatre.
Fisher Theatre
Based on the film of the same name, Catch Me If You Can tells the incredible true story of Frank W. Abagnale Jr., a teenager who uses millions of dollars in forged checks to live the high life, posing as a pilot, doctor, and lawyer. But when the FBI catches wind, he’s forced into an intense cat-and-mouse chase. May 7-19. $35-$80.
3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit; 313-872-1000; broadwayindetroit.com.
Hilberry Theatre
In an infamous French insane asylum, the Marquis de Sade directs other inmates to re-create the murder of Jean-Paul Marat in Marat/Sade, a play-within-a-play based heavily on true facts. Until May 11
4743 Cass, Detroit; 313-577-2972; hilberry.com.
The Jewish Ensemble Theatre Company
Co-produced with the Performance Network Theatre, My Name is Asher Lev explores the intimate confrontation between faith and art. May 1-19. $38+.
6600 W. Maple Rd., West Bloomfield; 248-788-2900; jettheatre.com.
Meadow Brook Theatre
• In a new musical featuring 1960s hits, Life Could Be a Dream promises to keep audiences engaged, laughing, and singing along. April 24-May-19.
• In a musical comedy based on the play Breath of Spring by Peter Coke, 70, Girls, 70 is a hilarious tale of a group of senior citizens who steal furs from a string of New York City stores in order to make money to buy their closing retirement hotel. May 29-June 23. $25-$40.
207 Wilson Hall, Rochester; 248-377-3300; mbtheatre.com.
Music Hall
Explore different styles of dance, including hip-hop, modern dance, ballet, and the Irish jig, as Angelina and her friends prepare for a special visitor to their school in Angelina Ballerina: The Musical. 4 p.m. May 5. $7 for kids, $17 for adults.
349 Madison, Detroit; 313-887-8500; musichall.org.
Performance Network
Premiering in Michigan after a run on Broadway, The Mountaintop chronicles Martin Luther King Jr., in his Memphis hotel room the night before his assassination. April 25-June 2. $27-$41.
120 E. Huron St., Ann Arbor; 734-663-0681; performancenetwork.org.
Planet Ant
In a modern Gothic parable, the lives of a middle-class couple are turned upside down when their daughter is left in a catatonic state after an accident, in the play Brimstone and Treacle. May 10-June 1. $20.
2357 Caniff St., Hamtramck; 313-365-4948; planetant.com.
Purple Rose
In a race against time, musicologist Katherine Brandt works to discover the true nature of Beethoven’s work while stumbling upon mysteries in her own life. 33 Variations bridges the gap between modern times and 19th-century Austria. Through June 1. $27-$42.
137 Park St., Chelsea; 734-433-7673; purplerosetheatre.org.
Ringwald Theatre
The Pulitzer Prize-winning comedic-drama August: Osage County exposes the secrets of a dysfunctional Oklahoma family. May 10-June 3. $10-$20.
22742 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; 248-545-5545; theringwald.com.
Tipping Point Theatre
When a New York City actor lands the role of Hamlet in the Shakespeare in the Park festival, he’s forced to decide between taking the challenging role or taking a job on a new television series, in I Hate Hamlet. May 30-June 30. $29-$32.
361 E. Cady St., Northville; 248-347-0003; tippingpointtheatre.com.
Send information at least nine weeks in advance to: Listings, Hour Detroit, 117 W. Third St., Royal Oak, MI 48067. By e-mail: editorial@hourdetroit. By fax: 248-691-4531.
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