Arts & Entertainment

June
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Art

 

 

Cranbrook Art Museum

What to Paint and Why: Modern Painters at Cranbrook, 1936-1974, an exhibition highlighting the contrast between two of Cranbrook’s foundational artists in history traces their influence on later students’ work. June 14-Oct. 13.

Michigan Modern: Design that Shaped America is an exhibition celebrating Michigan’s contributions to Modern design, the industrial architecture of Albert Kahn, and other Michigan designers. June 14-Oct. 13.

• In Danish ceramist Anders Ruhwald’s fist solo exhibition in Michigan, he will present his investigations into the nature of Modernism in the exhibit Anders Ruhwald at Saarinen House: The Anatomy of a Home. Through October. $8 adults, $6 seniors 65+, $4 students, free for children 12 and under.

39221 Woodward, Bloomfield Hills; 248-645-3320; cranbrookart.edu/museum.

 

Detroit Artists Market

An exhibition of art exploring the theme and concept of “Edge,” juried by guest juror Melanie Manos. June 7-July 13.

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

• In an exhibit from the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, the art of model shipbuilding educates viewers about model ships and their history.

• 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.

 

River Gallery

New paintings by Michael Thoresen; paintings and sculptures by Joan Painter Jones. Through June 29.

120 S. Main St., Chelsea; 734-433-0826; chelsearivergallery.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):

• In an exhibit exploring the provocations and intersections of digital technology, material experimentation, and femininity, the exhibit Florencia Pita/FP mod showcases the work of Argentina-born designer and architect Florence Pita. Through June 16.

• Thangkas, portable religious paintings on cloth, will be on display, along with an array of religious murals, sculptures, and other portable objects to showcase the rich iconography of Buddha and Buddhist deities in the exhibit Buddhist Thangkas and Treasures: The Walter Koelz Collection. Through June 9.

• The national touring exhibit Isam Noguchi and Qi Baishi: Beijing 1930 features 60 drawings, ink paintings, calligraphic works, and sculptures and interpretive materials from this museum and others. Through 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

• Art education exhibit. Until June 21.

150 Art Building, Detroit; 313-993-7813; art.wayne.edu.

 

 

Classical

 

 

Cantata Academy Chorale

The singers will take the audience on a musical tour of a variety of genres and eras from baroque to Bernstein in the concert From Bach to Broadway. 3 p.m. June 2. First United Methodist Church of Farmington, 33112 Grand River, Farmington. 7:30 p.m. June 7. Christ Episcopal Church, 120 N. Military, Dearborn. $15 adult, $12 seniors/students, $30 family.

313-242-7282; cantataacademy.org.

 

Detroit Chamber Winds Society

A performance presented in conjunction with the Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival, the program will include George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. 8 p.m. June 22. $10, $40.

Seligman Performing Arts Center, 22305 W. 13 Mile Rd., Beverly Hills; 248-559-2095; detroitchamberwinds.org.

 

Detroit Symphony Orchestra

• Pianist André Watts will perform pieces by Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Edward MacDowell, and Missy Mazzoli. 8:00 p.m. June 1.

Orchestra Hall, 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-576-5111; dso.org.

 

Flint Institute of Music

Music performed by the Flint Symphony Orchestra, the Chamber Music Series includes post-performance receptions. 7 p.m. June 7, 14, 21, and 28.

MacArthur Recital Hall; 1025 E. Kearsley St., Flint; 810-238-1350; thefim.org.

 

The Scarab Club

A performance of music originating from Great Britain will bring this location’s season to a close. In An Evening in England, music by Arnold Bax, York Bowen, and Frank Bridge will be performed on a range of stringed and woodwind instruments. 7 p.m. June 2. $18-$22.

The Scarab Club, 217 Farnsworth St., Detroit; 313-831-1250; scarabclub.org/chambermusic.

 

 

Dance

 

 

Eisenhower Dance Ensemble

Michigan born and bred, Laurie Eisenhower’s Eisenhower Dance Ensemble has grown from humble beginnings (only four dancers) into one of Michigan’s premier dance companies. The Center Spring Showcase Performances will be a guaranteed physical embodiment of contemporary and classical forms. June 8-9.

Troy Performing Arts Center, 4777 Northfield Pky., Troy; ede-dance.org

 

Complexions Contemporary Dance

Since the founding of New York’s Complexions Contemporary Ballet in 1994, Dwight Rhoden and Desmond Richardson have proved season after season that they’re innovators and inspirers of contemporary dance. Always unique, dynamic, and moving, the company’s 2013 tour presents works by choreographers Dwight Rhoden, Jae Man Joo, and Camille A. Brown. $30-$50. 8 p.m. June 22.

Music Hall Detroit, 350 Madison Ave., Detroit; 313-887-8500; musichall.org
 

Events

 

 

Photo by Clay Patrick McBride

Downtown Hoedown

Rascal Flatts, Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, Montgomery Gentry, and Big & Rich — to name just some of today’s most successful country music stars — all have one thing in common: Their big break happened at Detroit’s Downtown Hoedown. This year will be the three-day festival’s 31st anniversary. More than 40 artists, including hometown hero Uncle Kracker, will play on three stages surrounding Comerica Park. $20+/day. May 31-June 2.

Comerica Park, 2100 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 248-581-2200; wycd.cbslocal.com.

 

Antiques Roadshow

Be a part of Detroit history and an award-winning PBS TV show with Antiques Roadshow. All you’re required to bring are a ticket and two antique items for appraisal. You and your items just might be featured on TV. June 1.

Cobo Center, 1 Washington Blvd., Detroit; 313-877-8777; cobocenter.com.

 

Baconfest Michigan 2013

Thirty-five-plus metro Detroit restaurants will participate in this second annual event in worship of all things bacon. There’ll be samples of bacon-themed fare, including bacon-themed desserts, as well as chef demonstrations, vendors, entertainment, and — did we mention bacon? 7-11 p.m. June 1. $40-$75.

Royal Oak Farmers Market, 316 E. 11 Mile Rd., Royal Oak; baconfestmichigan.com.

 

Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix

At the Raceway at Belle Isle Park, cars of the Izod IndyCar Series, the Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series, and the Pirelli World Championship Series comprise a series of races and trials during this nationally televised weekend event. The Grand Prix proves again why Detroit is still the Motor City. May 31-June 2. Adults $65+; children $55+.

Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix, Detroit; 313-748-1800; detroitgp.com.

 

David Spade

Birmingham-born funny man and Saturday Night Live alumnus David Spade will be performing his stand-up live in Detroit this month. Known as a prankster and critically acclaimed as a “comic brat extraordinaire,” see what he’ll say or do, next. 8 p.m. June 6. $40-$45.

MotorCity Casino Hotel, 2901 Grand River Ave, Detroit; 313-237-7711; motorcitycasino.com.

 

Daniel Tosh

Due to overwhelming demand, the host of Comedy Central’s Tosh.0, Daniel Tosh, comes to town this month for two stand-up performances. Tosh’s crass, quick-witted, leave-nothing-unharassed humor will make for an unforgettable night of entertainment — if you can handle it. 7 & 10 p.m. June 8. $49.50-$75.

Fox Theatre Detroit, 2211 Woodward Ave, Detroit; 313-471-6611; olympiaentertainment.com.

 

Motor City Pride

Enjoy a family picnic, golf outing, parade, and beer garden, all in celebration of the lives of Michigan’s GLBTQ citizens. Put on by action group Equality Michigan, the festivities take place in Detroit’s historic Hart Plaza. June 8-9.

Hart Plaza, Detroit; 866-962-1147; motorcitypride.org.

 

2013 Thunder Over Michigan Air Show

To this country, they’re known as “the ambassadors in blue,” a reference to the United States Air Force Thunderbirds — and they’re hosting an air show for public enchantment. Twelve officers will demonstrate their selfless dedication, years of training, and admirable precision. The event kicks off with a drill-style ground ceremony. June 15-16. $30-$35. Ages 15 and under free. $10-$15 parking fee.

Willow Run Airport, 801 Willow Run Airport, Ypsilanti; 734-485-6666; yankeeairmuseum.org.

 

Detroit River Days

This three-day summer kickoff festival celebrating Detroit’s maritime, ecological, and culinary culture is presented by the Soaring Eagle Casino and the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy, celebrating its 10th anniversary. Exhibits will be interactive, with life-size sand sculptures, strolling entertainers, eco-friendly kids zones, carnival rides, live performances from more than 50 local, national, and international music acts, and more. June 21-23.

Detroit riverfront, downtown Detroit; 313-566-8200; detroitriverfront.org/riverdays.

 

Bill Cosby

American icon and comedic legend Bill Cosby comes back to town to perform his inimitable stand-up act. 7 & 10 p.m. June 29.

Orchestra Hall, 3711 Woodward, Detroit; 313-576-5111; dso.org.
 

Film

 

 

Redford Theatre

The Redford Theatre will be closed in June to complete its “Stairway to the Stars” renovation project.

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.

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; chwmuseum.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

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.

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.

• Robert Scherer, Henry Ford, and other great inventors are featured in The Gallery of Innovation, an exhibit focusing on Detroit innovators and the products they created that we still use today.

5401 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-1805; detroithistorical.org.

 

Dossin Great Lakes Museum

Built by the River is a new exhibit exploring Detroit’s maritime history, as Detroit was once a fur-trade epicenter.

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.

Bells and Whistles, Flags and Flashes: Lost Languages of the Lakes shares the language used by mariners to communicate with sailors, vessels, and people on the shores — the means of which have evolved throughout history, including lights, radios, cell phones, and telegraphy.

• 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

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

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

• Featured ongoing exhibits are Space, displaying four towering rockets; Health and Nutrition, which stresses the value of fitness; Motion, which explores the fundamental property of matter and energy; and Engineering, which includes a miniature 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. It includes an original 1931 Ford Model A pickup, eight pedal cars, and a 1960s vintage Texaco gas pump to keep them fueled. The exhibit runs through June 9. Wed., Fri., Sat., & Sun. 1-4 p.m. $5 adults; $2 children.

155 S. Main Street, Plymouth; 734-455-8940, plymouthhistory.org.

 

 

Music

 

 

Mos Def

Dante Terrell Smith, better known as Mos Def, is an actor and MC. His most notable acting performance is as Brother Sam in the Showtime series Dexter. Raised in Brooklyn, Smith took the Muslim declaration of faith at 19. Mos Def emerged as a solo artist in 1996 but signed with a record label as part of the legendary hip-hop duo Black Star, with Talib Kweli. He went solo again with Geffen Records and released his second solo album in 2004. The New Danger received critical acclaim and garnered several Grammy Award nominations that year. 8 p.m. June 1. $68+.

Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway, Detroit; 313-237-7464.
Photo by Todd Chalfant

Marshall Crenshaw

Born in Detroit, Marshall Crenshaw grew up in the suburb of Berkley. His big break came playing John Lennon in a touring company of Beatlemania. During that time, he recorded a few songs, including his most notable single, “Someday, Someway.” Known for his offbeat chord progressions, which are almost jazz-like, Crenshaw was nominated for a Golden Globe for writing the title song of the 2007 film Walk Hard. He’s also appeared as an actor in The Adventures of Pete and Pete and La Bamba. 8 p.m. June 1. $25.

The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor; 734-761-1800.

 

Devendra Banhart

Devendra Banhart is a Venezuelan-American singer-songwriter and visual artist. He was born in Texas but raised in Venezuela until moving to California as a teenager. He dropped out of college in 1998 to perform music in Europe and the United States. Banhart’s latest album, Mala, was released in March. His music is described as “psych folk,” “avant-folk,” “freak folk,” “new weird America,” and “hipster folk revival.” Whatever you call him, see Devandra Banhart at 7 p.m. June 1. $20.

St. Andrew’s Hall, 431 E. Congress, Detroit; 313-961-8137.

 

The Lumineers with Cold War Kids

The Lumineers reached commercial success when their single “Ho Hey” was used on the season finale of Hart of Dixie. This started a national buzz on social media and a Seattle radio show started playing it twice in a row daily. The song was a huge success and is often referred to as one of the best songs of 2012. Cold War Kids released their debut album in 2006. They toured nonstop for two years and have just released their fourth album. 7 p.m. June 6. $25+.

DTE Energy Music Theatre, 7774 Sashabaw Rd., Clarkston; 248-377-0100.

 

Pitbull and Ke$ha

Armando Perez is known by his stage name, Pitbull. He debuted on Lil Jon’s 2002 album before releasing his own solo album in 2004. Besides being a successful musician, Pitbull also owns his own record label and hosts a Spanish-language program. Singer-songwriters Elliott Smith and Mary Lou Lord once sang, “Everyone’s got a dollar sign after their name.” Kesha Sebert, always trying to be different, either misheard or decided to defiantly stick a dollar sign right smack in the middle of her name. She prides herself on doing her own thing. Bacchanalia has never been this auto-tuned. 7:30 p.m. June 7. $29.50+.

Palace of Auburn Hills, 4 Championship Dr., Auburn Hills; 248-377-0100.

 

New Kids on the Block, 98 Degrees, and Boyz II Men

Fans of the late-’80s and ’90s boy band craze have a reason to celebrate: New Kids on the Block, 98 Degrees, and Boys II Men are touring — together. After a 12-year hiatus, NKOTB reunited in 2008. They announced in January that they were releasing a new single, “Remix (I Like The),” and going on tour with the two other bands as their openers. The group is set to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame this year. Relive the glory days at 7:30 p.m. June 8. $29.50+.

Palace of Auburn Hills, 4 Championship Dr., Auburn Hills; 248-377-0100.

 

Photograph courtesy of Cambria Harkey

Orion Music Festival

Orion Music Festival’s 2013 lineup includes Metallica, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rise Against, Deftones, Bassnectar, Gogol Bordello, Flag, Dropkick Murphys, and more than 20 other groups. Two-day passes are available for $150 and VIP passes for $750. June 8 and 9.

Belle Isle, Detroit, MI.; orionmusicandmore.com.

 

B.B. King

Known as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, B.B. King is a blues singer-songwriter. He developed an original guitar style that mixes blues, pop, jazz, swing, and jump. King grew up singing in his church choir and purchased his first guitar at the age of 12. King assembled a band and began recording songs in 1949. Over a 64-year period, he has given more than 15,000 performances. King uses simple equipment in each performance and usually plays Gibson guitars. 8 p.m. June 9.

The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor, 377 Riverside Drive E., Windsor; 888-345-5885.

 

The Postal Service

The Postal Service is composed of Jimmy Tamborello, Jenny Lewis, and Ben Gibbard, of Death Cab for Cutie. The group chose its name because of the way they produced songs. Tamborello would write and perform instrumental tracks, send them to Gibbard, who would edit them and add vocals, before sending them back through the United States Postal Service to Tamborello. Lewis lived in the same apartment complex as Tamborello and would record temporary vocals for many of the tracks before she became a full-fledged member. After a long break, the band is back on the road behind the 10-year anniversary of its debut album, Give Up, which it’s obviously not ready to do. 7 p.m. June 10. $37.50+.

The Fillmore, 2115 Woodward, Detroit; 313-961-5451.

 

The XX and Grizzly Bear

Formed in Wandsworth in 2005, British trio The XX released their first album in 2009, which was met with universal acclaim. They released their second album in 2012; and they’re currently touring with Grizzly Bear, whose songs are used repeatedly in television and movies, including Blue Valentine, Gossip Girl, How I Met Your Mother, Gilmore Girls, The Dictator, and The Kids Are All Right. 6 p.m. June 10. $65+.

The Fillmore, 2115 Woodward, Detroit; 313-961-5451.

 

Black Flag

Black Flag was formed in 1976 and is widely considered one of the first hardcore punk bands. They broke up in 1986 but reunited in 2003 and again this year. Through lineup changes and new music styles, Black Flag has evolved through the years, incorporating heavy metal, jazz, and freestyle into their sound. During their first years, there were few places for punk bands to perform, but they rehearsed for many hours every day and took any gig offered to them (including picnics, schools, and birthday parties). Eventually, they reached commercial success before breaking up and playing “their last concert” in Detroit in 1986. This is their second reunion tour. 8 p.m. June 10. $47+.

The Majestic Theatre, 4120 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-9700.

 

Fleetwood Mac

Iconic British-American rock band Fleetwood Mac was formed in 1967 in London. Besides popular music, the group is known for its many love affairs. Current members Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks had a long relationship, and John McVie was married to former member Christine McVie. Intense alcohol and drug consumption fueled tension in the group after breakups. Their smash 1977 album Rumours captured the emotional turmoil of these times. “Go Your Own Way” to see Fleetwood Mac. 8 p.m. June 12. $49.50+.

Joe Louis Arena, 600 Civic Center Dr., Detroit; 313-983-6606.

 

Lady Antebellum

Hilary Scott, Charles Kelley, and Dave Haywood form Lady Antebellum, which debuted in 2007. Scott is the daughter of country music singer Linda Davis, and Kelley is the brother of country artist Josh Kelley. Kelley convinced his old middle-school classmate Haywood to move to Nashville with him so they could write music together. They met Scott through MySpace and named themselves after the antebellum architecture style. “Looking for a good time?” Lady Antebellum is sure to deliver. 7:30 p.m. June 13. $53+.

Freedom Hill, 14900 Metropolitan Pkwy, Sterling Heights; 586-493-4344.

 

Toby Keith

Having celebrated his 50th birthday two years ago, Toby Keith should count his accomplishments whenever his thoughts wander into the dark troughs of midlife crisis: Toby, remember, you have 49 charting singles, and 36 of those were in the Top 10 (and 19 of those were No. 1 hits). You also publicly insulted the Dixie Chicks’ songwriting and Photoshopped their lead singer standing with Saddam Hussein. Keep your head high. 7 p.m. June 16. $24+.

DTE Energy Music Theatre, 7774 Sashabaw Rd., Clarkston; 248-377-0100.

 

Leon Russell

Leon Russell began his career as a session musician and sideman to many well-known performers. By 1970, he began his solo career but never ended his previous roles in the music industry. He was born in Oklahoma and began performing in nightclubs when he was still in high school. He moved to Los Angeles and began his career as a session musician. He released a solo album in the ’70s, which included his first recording of “A Song for You.” This has become his best-known song and more than 40 artists have covered it, including Whitney Houston, Willie Nelson, Ray Charles, and Christina Aguilera. Russell was inducted in to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011. 8 p.m. June 16. $35+.

Magic Bag, 22920 Woodward, Ferndale; 248-544-3030.

 

Willie Nelson

Country musician, activist, poet, and actor, Willie Nelson is one of the main figures in “outlaw country.” He began writing songs at the age of 7 and joined his first band when he was 10. After brief stints in the Air Force and college, Nelson started to achieve success with his music. He worked as a solo artist, and in the 1980s he joined the country supergroup The Highwaymen with Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson. Today he’s an activist and co-chair of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws. 8 p.m. June 19.

The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor, 377 Riverside Drive East, Windsor; 888-345-5885.

 

Holly Williams

The daughter of Hank Williams Jr., Holly Williams has become a successful singer-songwriter on her own. She began writing songs at the age of 17 on her father’s guitar. She started her own fan site, posted her EP, and soon began touring. After building a loyal fan base, she was signed with Universal South Records and toured with some of the most famous country musicians. Williams has since started her own record company and owns a clothing boutique, H. Audrey. 8 p.m. June 25. Free.

The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor; 734-761-1800.

 

Kings of the Mic Tour

LL Cool J headlines the Kings of the Mic Tour, which also features Ice Cube, Public Enemy, and De La Soul. James Todd Smith goes by the name LL Cool J, short for Ladies Love Cool James. He has had a successful music career that began in 1985, and he’s releasing a new album this year. He has also branched off into acting, fashion, books, a social networking site, and a music label. He has supported both Republican and Democratic political candidates. In 2003, he appeared before a Senate committee hearing on file-sharing, saying that he wished “music could be downloaded legitimately.” 7 p.m. June 26. $17+.

DTE Energy Music Theatre, 7774 Sashabaw Rd., Clarkston; 248-377-0100.

 

Rascal Flatts

Jay DeMarcus moved to Nashville in 1992 as part of a Christian music group. He later called his second cousin Gary LeVox to record harmonies for him. They met Joe Don Rooney and formed Rascal Flatts. They released their debut single in 2000 and were quickly signed. The group has used their success to raise millions of dollars for the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. They’re also members on the celebrity cabinet board for the American Red Cross. Their shows are heavy on special effects, including video, pyrotechnics, and lasers. 7 p.m. June 27. $29.75+.

DTE Energy Music Theatre, 7774 Sashabaw Rd., Clarkston; 248-377-0100.

 

Randy Travis

In 1986, when country music consisted of singers wallowing in the post-urban cowboy recession, Travis turned country back to the basics. He rose as the dominant male country voice until stars Garth Brooks and Clint Black hit it big. Born in a small town near Charlotte, N.C., Travis learned how to play guitar at age 8 and became the first country artist to go multiplatinum after his breakthrough album, Storms of Life. 8 p.m. June 28. $90+.

Freedom Hill, 14900 Metropolitan Pkwy, Sterling Heights; 586-493-4344.

 

Cake

John McCrea, Vince DiFiore, Xan McCurdy, Gabe Nelson, and Paulo Baldi formed Cake in 1991. They found commercial success with their second album, Fashion Nugget, in 1996. The group says their name doesn’t refer to the dessert but instead is “like when something insidiously becomes a part of your life … [we] mean it more as something that cakes onto your shoe and is just sort of there until you get rid of it.” The band incorporates a wide range of genres, including rock, funk, Iranian folk, hip-hop, and mariachi. The group now releases albums on its own label, Upbeat Records. 8 p.m. June 29.

Freedom Hill, 14900 Metropolitan Pkwy, Sterling Heights; 586-493-4344.

 

Kool & The Gang

Five high-school friends formed the Jazziacs, an instrumental band, in 1964; and changed their name to Kool & The Gang in 1969. The band is best known for their single “Jungle Boogie,” which was featured on the Pulp Fiction soundtrack. Their songs have also been featured in Saturday Night Fever and Rocky. Of the original members, Leon Thomas and Robert and Ronald Brown are still in the group. They mix smooth pop, R&B, and electro-pop. Through the years, the’ve sold more than 70 million albums worldwide. 8 p.m. June 30.

Freedom Hill, 14900 Metropolitan Pkwy, Sterling Heights; 586-493-4344.

 

O.A.R

The name of this gener-rock (as in “generic-rock”) quintet stands for “Of a Revolution.” With songs like “This Town” and “Love and Memories,” this revolution has already been televised, so now experience it live. Just don’t make the mistake of calling them “oar.” 6:30 p.m. June 30. $26+.

Meadow Brook Music Festival, 3554 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills; 248-377-0100.

 

 

Theater

 

 

The City Theatre

In its third return to the City Theatre, Ernie, written by Mitch Albom, tells the story of Detroit Tigers announcer Ernie Harwell and his final broadcast at Comerica Park. June 6-July 7. $20-$25.

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. Until June 23. $17, $20.

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. Until June 9. $7-$15.

103 Quirk Building, Ypsilanti; 734-487-2282; emich.edu/emutheatre.

 

Fox Theatre

In a bizarre musical based on the spooky family of characters, The Addams Family tells the story of Wednesday Addams, who has fallen in love with a young man from a “normal” family. Things change for the Addams when the two families meet.

2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-471-6611; olympiaentertainment.com.

 

Meadow Brook Theatre

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. Through June 23. $25-$40.

207 Wilson Hall, Rochester; 248-377-3300; mbtheatre.com.

 

Performance Network Theatre

In the Michigan premiere of Becky Shaw, the story of step-siblings Suzanna and Max takes a dark turn after Suzanna sets Max up on a blind date in this witty and comedic thriller. June 20-July 28. $27-$41.

120 E. Huron St., Ann Arbor; 734-663-0681; performancenetwork.org.

 

Purple Rose

In the world premiere of Miles and Ellie, two teenagers who are in love eventually become separated. After 20 years and a divorce, the two could possibly receive a second chance at love. June 20-Aug. 31.

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. Through 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. Until June 30. $29-$32.

361 E. Cady St., Northville; 248-347-0003; tippingpointtheatre.com.

 

University Musical Society

Set in 1974, James Graham’s new play, This House, tells a story about Britain’s parliamentary politics in a broadcasted performance directly from the National Theatre in London. 7 p.m. June 23.

Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; 734-668-8397; ums.org.

 

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