Arts & Entertainment

March 2009
16071

ART

Art Gallery of Windsor (AGW): In It’s Alive! Bertram Brooker and Vitalism , artist Bertram Brooker presents a collection of paintings, drawings, and graphic designs inspired by Mexican filmmaker Adolpho Best-Maugard. Through March 8.
• London, Ontario artist Patrick Mahon’s Cold Storage consists of prints and drawings, along with a display of glass bones — all challenging conventional notions of the Arctic and northern landscapes. Through March 22.
• A collection of the works of visual artists, each contemplating and investigating the myths of northern Canada, is the subject of Burning Cold. Through March 29.
• Artist Tom Regenbogen examines the struggle for power between men and women through a series of drawings using a black stark marker and Wite-Out correction fluid in Venus and Mars. Through April 5.
Working Culture displays the collaborative photographic work of artists Carole Conde and Karl Beveridge. Through April 26.
• Investigating themes of rebellion and alienation in youth culture, artists Chris Down, David Poolman, and Roman Tkaczyk present Bring Our Curses Home. Opens March 14.
Art for Canada: An Illustrated History is an ongoing exhibition. $3; members free.
401 Riverside Drive West, Windsor, Ontario; 519-977-0013; agw.ca.

Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center (BBAC): Near and Far: Contemporary Fine Prints runs through March 6.
1516 S. Cranbrook. Birmingham; 248-644-0866; bbartcenter.org.

Community Arts: 2009 WSU MA Exhibition runs through April 3.
150 Community Arts Building, Detroit, 
313-577-2423.

Cranbrook Art Museum: Using videos, photos, and sculptures, Mixed Signals: Artists Consider Masculinity in Sports deconstructs American male athletic imagery. Through March 29.
• In Superheroes in Action, artist Mark Newport knits life-size superhero costumes as he questions traditional views of masculinity. Through March 29.
Admission: $10 adults; $4 students and teens; free for members and children under 12.
39221 Woodward, Bloomfield Hills; 877-462-7262; cranbrookart.edu.

Detroit Institute of Arts: The DIA focuses on one of America’s most iconic artists in American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell. The exhibit will detail every Saturday Evening Post cover, as well as many of Rockwell’s paintings during his six decades of work. Opens March 8.
Master Pieces: Chess Sets from the Dr. George and Vivian Dean Collection includes two dozen chess sets featuring an array of materials and designs from Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the United States. Through March 22.
• At 2 p.m. on March 29, artist Kehinde Wiley presents a lecture: “Representing the Black Male Body in Art.”
$8 adults; 
$4 ages 6-17; $6 seniors. Wed., Thur.: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri.: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat.-Sun.: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Mon.-Tue.
5200 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-7900; dia.org.

Detroit Zoo: Wildlife Photographer of Year Exhibit explores a collection of 83 photographs from the world’s largest wildlife photography competition. Through April 4.
$11 adults; $9 seniors; $7 ages 2-12. Daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Detroit Zoo’s Ford Education Center.
10 Mile Road and Woodward; 248-541-5717; detroitzoo.org.

Elaine L. Jacob: Spatial Effects: New Digital Art runs through April 3.
On the campus of Wayne State University, 480 W. Hancock, Detroit; 313-993-7813. 


Ellen Kayrod Gallery: Carole Harris, a Detroit artist and interior designer, will show her colorful and innovative quilts and textiles in Creating Memory: The Quilts and Fabric Art of Carole Harris. Through March 13.
• Highlighting the passion of senior life, Patricia Lay-Dorsey exhibits her photos of seniors at theHannan Center for Senior Learning in Active Elders: The Photography of Patricia Lay-Dorsey. Opens March 27.
4750 Woodward Avenue, Detroit; 313-833-1300; hannan.org.

555: Thursday’s View offers a new featured artist each week in the First Floor Gallery, 7-10 p.m. Thur. and Fri.; 12-5 p.m. Sat.-Sun.
4884 Grand River, Detroit; 555arts.org.

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

Gallery Project: Change runs through March 3.
• Obsession opens March 4.
215 S. Fourth, Ann Arbor; 734-997-7012.

Lawrence Street: Sisters of the Brush: 9 Women Painters opens March 4. Reception March 6.
22620 Woodward, Ferndale; 248-544-0394.

Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MoCad): More than 20 African-American and non-African-American artists come together in Black Is, Black Ain’t, highlighting the issues of race, gender, sexuality, representation, and language throughout their works. Through May 3.
4454 Woodward, Detroit; 313-832-6622; mocadetroit.org.

Oakland University Art Gallery: Thoughts of globalization and new media are explored in Contemporary Flânerie: Reconfiguring Cities. Opens March 7. Opening reception March 7.
2200 N. Squirrel Rd., Rochester; 248-370-2100.

Paint Creek Center for the Arts (PCCA): Norwood Viviano and Sara Lindley Exhibit runs through April 4.
Taurus Burns Exhibit runs through April 4.
407 Pine St.; 248-651-4110; pccart.org.

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

River: The works of Michael Kapetan is up through March 8.
120 S. Main St., Chelsea; 734-433-1930; chelsearivergallery.com.

Sherrus: Best Friends Forever A-Z is a permanent display of animal character paintings by Michigan acrylic artist and gallery owner Sherri R. Mewha.
133 W. Main St., Suite 210, Northville; 248-380-0470; sherrusgallery.com.

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

Susanne Hilberry Gallery: North American craft potter Warren Mackenzie presents his work through April 11.
700 Livernois, Ferndale; 248-541-4700.

UMMA Off/Site: The grand reopening of the restored historic Alumni Memorial Hall begins with a 24-hour public opening March 28. Museums in the 21st Century: Concepts, Projects, Buildings, explores UMMA’s expansion and restoration.
• Expressions of Vienna: Master Drawings by Klimt and Schiele from the Pulgram-McSparran Collection highlights a recent gift of Austrian Expressionism from two University of Michigan professors • UMMA Projects: Walead Beshty focuses on global contemporary art. All open March 28.  Free.
1301 S. University, Ann Arbor; 734-763-8662;
umma.umich.edu.

 

CLASSICAL

Brunch With Bach: What better way to celebrate Johann Sebastian Bach’s 324th birthday but with brunch and the master’s own music performed by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra Chamber Ensemble? With the DSO’s Kevin Good on trumpet, the ensemble performs Brandenburg Concerto 2 in F Major while attendants dine on wild mushrooms, chicken, and dried cranberry strudel. 11 a.m. March 22.  $35.
5200 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-7900; dia.org.

Chamber Music Society of Detroit: Pianist Garrick Ohlsson performs Beethoven’s Sonata No. 1 in F minor, Op. 2, No. 1, Liszt’s Sonata in B minor, Prokofiev’s Sonata No. 2 in D minor, Op. 14, Chopin’s Nocturne in D-flat major, Op. 27, No. 2 and Scherzo in B-flat minor, Op. 31. 8 p.m. March 21.  $25-$75.
Seligman Performing Arts Center, 22305 W. 13 Mile Rd., Beverly Hills; 248-855-6070; comehearcmsd.org.

Cranbrook Music Guild: Scholarship winner and soprano Janai Brugger, who has sung with the Chicago Opera Theatre and Grant Park Chorus, performs a solo recital. 8 p.m. March 24. $30.
470 Church Rd., Bloomfield Hills; 248-645-0037; cranbrookmusicguild.org.

Detroit Symphony Orchestra: Classical Roots presents conductor Thomas Wilkins, soprano Janice Chandler-Eteme, mezzo-soprano Jevetta Steele, baritone Kevin Deas, the Brazeal Dennard Chorale, and the Rackham Symphony Choir performing Hannibal Lokumbe’s Dear Mrs. Parks. March 6-8.
• Sir Andrew Davis conducts Elgar’s Serenade for Strings, Debussy’s Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun, and Stravinsky’s Symphony in Three Movements, as well as Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1, with soloist Jeremy Denk. March 12-15.
• Conductor Susanna Malkki makes her DSO debut with Bizet’s Symphony in C, Stravinsky’s Movements for Piano and Orchestra (with soloist Peter Serkin), Messiaen’s Colours of the Celestial City, and Ravel’s Daphnis and Chloé Suite No. 2. March 27-28.
Orchestra Hall in the Max M. Fisher Music Center, 3711 Woodward, Detroit; 313-576-5111; detroitsymphony.com.

University Musical Society: The New York Philharmonic performs two concerts conducted by Lorin Maazel. Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Nights Dream Overture, Schumann’s Symphony No. 4 in D minor, and Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition are on tap for 8 p.m. March 7.
• Maazel also conducts at a separate performance Berlioz’s Roman Carnival Overture, Tchaikovsky’s Suite No. 3 in G Major, and Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring. 7 p.m. March 8. $10-$125.
Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-763-3333.
• The Brentano String Quartet is joined by pianist Peter Serkin and baritone Richard Lalli as they perform a mix of classical and contemporary pieces such as Beethoven’s Grosse Fuge and Schoenberg’s Ode to Napoleon. 8 p.m. March 11. $20-$42.
• More than 10 years ago, The Altenberg Trio Vienna debuted during the Salzburg Mozart Week. Since then, the trio has garnered a reputation as one of the most daring ensembles of its kind. The group performs Takemitsu’s Between Tides, Haydn’s Piano Trio in C Major, and Dvorak’s Piano Trio in F Minor, Op. 65. 8 p.m. March 18. $18-$36.
Rackham Auditorium, 915 E. Washington, Ann Arbor; 734-763-3333; ums.org.

 

DANCE

Detroit Opera House: The American Ballet Theatre presents its classic 1965 London production of Romeo and Juliet. With choreography by Sir Kenneth MacMillan and music by Sergei Prokofiev played by the MOT orchestra, the show is sure to be memorable. March 13-15. $25-$97.
1526 Broadway, Detroit; 313-961-3500.

Music Hall: Cirque Eloize brings together a combination of circus arts, dance, music, and theater. Through March 1. $27-$47.
• Acclaimed for dreamlike modern dance performances, Momix, under the direction of choreographer Moses Pendleton, uses props, shadows, lights, and experimentation with the human body. 7:30 p.m. March 16.
$27-$47.
• 120 performers of all ages from southeast Michigan, as well as stars from the New York Ballet, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and the musical The Color Purple come together for a benefit performance. The benefit completes a year-round education program of Detroit’s talented youth. 8 p.m. March 7-8. $27-$47.
350 Madison, Detroit; 313-887-8500; musichall.org.

Orchestra Hall: For centuries, belly dancing has celebrated the bodies of women of all ages and races. Be prepared for the sensual seduction of Belly Dance Superstars’ The Art of Bellydancing. 3 p.m. March 29. $35.50-$43.50.
3711 Woodward, Detroit; 313-576-5100.

 

EVENTS

Friday Art Walk: Kick the weekend off with a night of art, drinks, and hors d’oeuvres in downtown Northville. On the first Friday of each month, select art galleries are open late, and guests can shop and enjoy art demonstrations. 6-9 p.m. March 6.
Downtown Northville; downtownnorthville.com.

Yad Ezra Up for Hunger Event: A Texas Hold’Em tournament will be held to raise funds for the Yad Erzra’s lunch-assistance program. The organization provides meals for day-school children from low-income families. The evening also includes a raffle, bingo, auction, food, and drinks. Tickets start at $50; sponsorship begins at $1,000 and up to $15,000. 8 p.m.-11:30 p.m. March 7.
2850 W. 11 Mile Rd., Berkley; 248-548-3663.

Smucker’s Stars on Ice: Now in its 23rd year, the Smucker’s figure-skating tour comes back to Detroit with the “On Edge” tour. This year, Olympic silver medalist Sasha Cohen joins Olympic bronze medalist Jeffrey Buttle, as well as Todd Eldredge, Michael Weiss, and many more accomplished skaters. 7:30 p.m. March 7. $35-$75.
The Palace of Auburn Hills 4 Championship Dr., Auburn Hills; 248-372-2055.

Annual Boat Show: The 17th annual spring boat show comes complete with displays of boats, trailers, and boating accessories. March 12-15. $10.
Rock Financial Showplace, 46100 Grand River, Novi; 734-261-0123.

Ron White: White is known as one of the four “Blue Collar Comedy Tour” performers. He has one of the top-rated hourlong specials in Comedy Central history, and a book that has appeared on the New York Times Best Seller List. 7 p.m. March 14. $39.75- $44.75.
Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward, Detroit; 313-471-6611.

Rain: A Tribute to The Beatles: This production showcases the astoundingly successful career of the Fab Four. It’s a multi-media, multi-dimensional experience that shows historical footage and television commercials from the 1960s. 7:30 p.m. March 19. $20.50 -$75.
Masonic Temple Theatre, 500 Temple, Detroit; 248-645-6666.

 

FILM

Detroit Film Theatre: Based on the bestselling 2006 Roberto Saviano book about the Camorra — the organized crime empire — director Matteo Garrone weaves five stories of mobsters from the mountain peaks of life to the waste-filled gutters of Naples in Gomorrah. Through March 8.
• Tommy Lee Jones, the actor, played in what many call the most famous football game in the history of the world. It was 1968, and Harvard and Yale were both undefeated, the first time since 1909, and the season’s culmination, of course, was a duel between these two teams. Director Kevin Rafferty mixes in original footage and interviews with the 50 men who played the legendary game to form Harvard Beats Yale 29-29. Through March 15.
• Something piques Hector’s curiosity. He follows it and falls down a bit of a rabbit hole that turns out to be a perplexing roller coaster of time travel, death, and human existence. It’s Alice in Wonderland meets The Twilight Zone. The movie, Timecrimes, is Nacho Vigalondo’s directorial debut. March 13-22.
• Bookended between two of Francois Truffaut’s art-house classics The 400 Blows and Jules and Jim, Shoot the Piano Player is the story of Charlie, a celebrated concert pianist who quits the biz after a family tragedy and is now tickling the keys at a dive. But, with a nod toward noir, Charlie is hiding out and lying low due to a supposed self-defense killing. March 20-22.
The 400 Blows is the first feature by Francois Truffaut and is also considered his most personal. He sensitively explores the trials of his own difficult childhood, complete with aloof parents, oppressive teachers, petty crime, and a lifelong friendship. March 27-29.
• Six directors from the French New Wave take six stories in six neighborhoods and produce a remarkably engaging, rarely seen compilation of French stories and French cinema in Six in Paris (Paris Vu Par). Each character, like each neighborhood, is distinctly different, ranging from funny to romantic to downright chilling. March 27-April 5. 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 the viewer on a spin through some of most beautiful shorelines and scenery the nation offers. And you’ll stay dry.
• The scariest thing about the deep sea is that no one has any idea what’s going on down there. Sure, fish are swimming and sharks are eating and whales are singing, but there is a lot that no one really knows about. New species are being found all the time. Where did those giant squids come from? And what’s up with that fish with the long sharp teeth and the light bulb above his head that tricks other fish into swimming close and then get gobbled up? In Deep Sea you’ll get a glimpse into some of the most unique, dangerous, and colorful creatures. All through March. $7.25-$12.95.
5020 John R, Detroit; 313-577-8400; detroitsciencecenter.org.

The Redford Theatre: America fell in love with Ralph Macchio in 1984 when the film he starred in, The Karate Kid, first hit the screen. From that point forward, kids (and adults) were trying to catch flies with chopsticks, doing the crane maneuver and the whole “wax on, wax off” thing, and calling one another “Daniel-san.” In this movie, Macchio plays Daniel Larusso, a teen who moves from Jersey and struggles before meeting Mr. Miyagi. Miyagi teachers him karate. Bullies at school want to fight, and the next thing you know “Daniel-san” is in a karate tournament. March 6-7.
• If you look at the movie objectively, Mrs. Doubtfire isn’t exactly a healthy scenario. A man — played by Robin Williams — gets divorced. He wants to see his children more often, so he has the idea to dress up as a British nanny and infiltrate his old home to take care of the kids. Yeah, it’s twisted. Now, don’t think about it too much and Mrs. Doubtfire is pretty funny. Think too hard and you might cringe. March 20-21. All films $4.
17360 Lahser, Detroit; 313-537-2560;
redfordtheatre.com.

 

MUSEUMS

Arab American National Museum: Utopian Visions is a visiting exhibition featuring four female artists who live and work in various locations throughout the world but came together to explore the concept of a perfect world. Rima Al-Awar (North Carolina/Toronto), Rana Chalabi (Cairo, Egypt), Roula Ayoub (Beirut, Lebanon), and Emna Zghai (Tunis, Tunisia/New York) created abstract and figural works, as well as projected images for this project. Through March 29.
• With 30 photographs never exhibited together, A Yemeni Community: Photographs from the 1970s by Milton Rogovin reconnects the past community of Lackawanna, N.Y., where a small community of immigrants from Yemen lived until the city’s steel plants closed. Through July 5.
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 and the integral part they played in the early history of the United States. Ongoing exhibit in Gallery 2.
Making an Impact celebrates the stories of Arab-American athletes, organizations, physicians, labor leaders, and entertainers. Ongoing exhibit in Gallery 3.
$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: Women of a New Tribe is a national exhibit featuring the black-and-white photography of Jerry Taliaferro. His images showcase the physical and inner beauty of African-American women in the 1930s. Through April 6.
Stories in Stained Glass: The Art of Samuel A. Hodge, a series of intricate and colorful works focusing on three areas of African-American culture and history — musicians, dancers, and freedom advocates — is one of the ongoing exhibits in the Main Level Corridor.
A Is for Africa includes 26 interactive stations making up a 3-D “dictionary” designed for children. Ongoing in the Lower Level Corridor.
And Still We Rise: Our Journey Through African American History and Culture is an expansive, evolving exhibit that recounts the 3.5-million-year-old odyssey that began in Africa and ends in Detroit. Ongoing in the Core Exhibition Gallery.
Genealogy, a work designed by local artist Hubert Massey, depicts the struggles of African-Americans in the United States. Ongoing on the Main Level.
Detroit Performs is a photomontage dedicated to those who have gained national and international prominence in the performing arts. Ongoing in the Main Level Corridor.
• Target has initiated a program of Free First Sundays at the museum; general admission at other times is $5-$8.
315 E. Warren, Detroit; 313-494-5800; maah-detroit.org.

Detroit Historical Museum: Detroit Artist’s Showcase displays the paintings of Robert Hopkin (1832-1909). His work has graced the likes of 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, including Augustus Woodward, Jimmy Hoffa, and Coleman Young.
100 Years Ago allows visitors to relate to past Detroiters through different forms of media that capture daily life in 1908.
Fabulous 5 adds “Detroit’s Entertainment Venues” to its showcase of local pop culture.
• Permanent exhibitions include Streets of Old Detroit, Frontiers to Factories, The Motor City, and The Glancy Trains.
General admission $4-$6.
5401 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-1805; detroithistorical.org.

Dossin Great Lakes Museum: Smugglers on the Straits examines a tradition of transporting cargo, goods, even people, and how it has changed in the course of three centuries in this region.
Fun, Fast & Fancy: Great Lakes Yachts takes a fanciful look at what yachting has looked like over the years along the Detroit River and Lake St. Clair. Both exhibits run through April.
100 Strand, Belle Isle, Detroit; 313-833-1805; detroithistorical.org.

Exhibit Museum of Natural History: A History of Pipes is a display of 15 types of smoking instruments, tracing the history and materials used. Through March.
Casting Tradition: Contemporary Brassworking in Ghana exhibits the evolution of a 500-year tradition practiced by Ghana’s Akan people. Through May.
• Relics pays tribute to ingenious gadgets, such as a mirrored ball, rotating galaxy projector, video-projector masks, and much more — some pieced together with unexpected household items. On display indefinitely.
• Dinosaur Tours are offered at 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
• Planetarium Shows are generally presented at 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. weekdays; call for weekend dates.
The Zula Patrol: Under the Weather, an animated adventure about weather, plays at 12:30 weekdays.
Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity, with recorded narration by Liam Neeson, explains the formation of the early universe. At 2:30 p.m. weekdays.
Admission to the museum is free, but suggested donation is $6. Planetarium price is $4.75.
University of Michigan Campus, 1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-764-0478; lsa.umich.edu/exhibitmuseum.

Henry Ford: Heroes of the Sky is a permanent exhibit focusing on adventures in early aviation.
With Liberty and Justice for All explores the struggles that arise when free men and women actually try to be free. This exhibit highlights four pivotal periods of history, beginning with the American Revolution and ending in the 1960s. Permanent exhibit.
• The automobile ultimately shaped American culture as we know it today. Automobiles in American Life honors this great invention by featuring milestones, including the 15 millionth Model T produced, as well as the Ford Mustang. Permanent exhibit.
20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn; 313-982-6001; thehenryford.org.

International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit: Three permanent exhibits are on display: The Ethel Averbach Dolls of the World, the Flags of the World, and the Mr. and Mrs. Larry S. Wilkonson Immigrant Ship Collection. Free. There’s also the International Café on the lower level.
111 E. Kirby, Detroit; 313-871-8600; iimd.org.

 

MUSIC

Dropkick Murphys: Back in 1996, a group of guys got together and started playing shows in the basement of a friend’s barbershop. Twelve years later, though the band has flipped its lineup a few times, the Dropkick Murphys are still raging on, playing their brand of gritty Celtic punk rock. 6:30 p.m. March 3. $22.50.
The Fillmore, 2115 Woodward, Detroit; 313-961-5450.

… And You Will Know Us By the Trail of the Dead: They’re not exactly the Jonas Brothers. Despite the scariness of their name, Trail of Dead is actually an indie/art/noise rock band. They’ve released six albums, their newest, The Century of Self, just last month. 8 p.m. March 5. $15.
The Pike, 1 S Saginaw St., Pontiac; 248-858-9333.

Yellowjackets: The roots of the Yellowjackets date back more than 20 years ago when three guys were formed to record on Robben Ford’s Inside Story. But it wasn’t until 1981 when things started to fly. Robben Ford left the foursome, Marc Russo took his place, and an R&B-oriented sound took shape. Through the years the Yellowjackets have evolved into a contemporary jazz quartet. 8 p.m. & 10 p.m. March 6-7. $47.
The Music Hall Center, 300 Madison, Detroit; 313-887-8500.

Duncan Sheik/Lauren Pritchard: Spring Awakening is a Tony Award-winning rock musical based on the 1891 German play by Frank Wedekind of the same name. The music is done by singer/songwriter, Duncan Sheik, and also stars singer/actress Lauren Pritchard. So, you see, that’s the connection between these two. Grammy Award-winning Sheik and Grammy-nominated Pritchard are joining forces for a tour of easy-on-the-ears rock. 7:30 p.m. March 8. $20-$27.
The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-761-1818.

Fleetwood Mac: Founder Mick Fleetwood has been the only constant member of Fleetwood Mac since the band formed in 1967 — which makes sense since the name of the band is his. But the Fleetwood Mac everyone knows has Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham up on stage with good ol’ Mick. This is one of those classic rock groups, and you know that because not only are they pumped through most classic-rock radio stations, but some of their tickets are over 100 bucks. 8 p.m. March 8. $49.50-$149.50.
The Palace of Auburn Hills, 4 Championship Dr., Auburn Hills; 248-377-0100.

The Whigs: Not the political party; those white hairs aren’t nearly as fun. These guys, hailing from Athens, Ga., are garage rockers. The Whigs, formed in 2002, have shared stages and tours with other bands such as Elf Power and fellow garage rockers Franz Ferdinand. This three-piece group even has one of their jams in the video game Pure. 8 p.m. March 10.  $10.
The Magic Stick, 4120 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-9700.

Missy Higgins & Justin Nozuka: There’s the 25-year-old Australian singer/songwriter Missy Higgins and then the 20-year-old Canadian folk musician Justin Nozuka. They both kind of play the same style of music. Higgins comes in on the poppier side of folk while her counterpart, Nozuka, is more soulful. 6:30 p.m. March 11.  $25.
The Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. Fourth St., Royal Oak; 248-399-2980.

Umphrey’s McGee: Jam bands are like oysters. You either really love them, or you can’t stand them. There is rarely an in-between. With that said, Umphrey’s McGee is an Indiana/Illinois jam band that have been around for a little more than a decade and, like most jam bands, have a cult following that should really be called an army. 7:30 p.m. March 12.  $22.
The Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. Fourth Street, Royal Oak; 248-399-2980.

Robert Cray: When Cray started playing the blues, Reagan became president. And, depending on whom you talk to about 1980, some people started singing the blues that year, too. 8 p.m. March 13.  $30-$35.
MotorCity Casino Hotel, 2901 Grand River, Detroit; 313-237-7711.

Black Lips: “Flower punk.” That’s what this band calls their music. That’s a new one; we’re not sure exactly what it means. These kids are indie rock, garage rock, punk rock, all rolled into one. Maybe that’s what “flower punk” is. Or, maybe it’s just a reference to an old Zappa song. 8 p.m. March 13. $10.
The Magic Stick, 4120 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-9700.

Bret Michaels: Michaels was born Bret Michael Sychak. It’s probably a good thing, because Rock of Love with Bret Sychak doesn’t have the same ring to it. Of course, his VH1 reality love show, titled Rock of Love with Bret Michaels, isn’t the only thing he’s known for. Maybe you remember a little glam band called Poison, and a song called “Every Road Has Its Thorn,” which Sychak, er, Michaels seems to reference in nearly every episode of Love. 8 p.m. March 14.  $41-$56.
MotorCity Casino Hotel, 2901 Grand River, Detroit; 313-237-7711.

Langhorne Slim: That’s not his name, but it was a good change. Langhorne Slim was born Sean Scolnick. He came from Langhorne, Penn. And he’s kinda thin. It all makes sense. Slim’s music is folk and country with a little grit thrown in. From appearances at Bonnaroo, tours with the likes of Cake and the Violent Femmes, and a song in the top five Rolling Stone editors’ picks, Slim looks as if he’s playing his hand — and his guitar — correctly. 8 p.m. March 15.  $10.
The Pike, 1 S Saginaw St., Pontiac; 248-858-9333.

Tokyo Police Club: From Canada, not Japan. These four Canadian kids started playing for kicks after another group of theirs had disbanded. Their style of indie rock, their haircuts, and their ability to put on a show garnered them some acclaim. 8 p.m. March 19. $12.
The Crofoot Ballroom, 1 S Saginaw St., Pontiac; 248-858-9333.

Less Than Jake: There was a time, in the late ’90s, when ska hit the mainstream and bands like Less Than Jake were hot. Like the tide, and most music, ska went back out to sea. But this ska punk band never went away and, more than 15 years later, they’re still out there, with their horns, strumming on the off beats, and watching kids half their age skank (a form of dancing at a ska show) in a sea of people. 7 p.m. March 21. $18.50.
St. Andrew’s Hall, 431 E. Congress St., Detroit; 313-961-8137.

The Eagles: If you have some extra clams sittin’ around, why not go see the Eagles? Come on! They’ll play “Desperado,” and “Hotel California,” and every other jam that made them “The Eagles.” They’re classic easy rockers. 8 p.m. March 21. $60-$195.
The Palace of Auburn Hills, 4 Championship Dr., Auburn Hills; 248-377-0100.

Jorma Kaukonen: The name is Finnish, if you’re wondering. Anyway, Jorma Kaukonen was a founding member of this band you may have heard of — Jefferson Airplane. Well, that was a while ago, and Kaukonen moved on. He started a group called Hot Tuna — a blues-rock band — and then also went solo. His solo work revolves around the acoustic guitar and his blend of folk, country, and blues. 7:30 p.m. March 22. $25-$32.
The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-761-1818.

 

THEATER

Fox: Watch “the greatest story ever told” come to life with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical, Jesus Christ Superstar, starring Ted Neeley. March 1. $30-$69.
Movin’ Out brings five-time Grammy winner Billy Joel’s classic tunes to the stage, telling the story of five friends over two turbulent decades. Joel collaborated with director/choreographer Twyla Tharp. March 27-29. $25.50-$75.
2211 Woodward, Detroit; 313-471-6611.

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

Detroit Opera House: Fiddler on the Roof tells the story of Tevye and his five daughters, along with Jerome Robbins’ original Tony-award winning choreography and the direction of four-time Tony-nominee David Leveaux. March 3-8.  Call for ticket prices.
1526 Broadway, Detroit; 313-965-4052.

Fisher: The infamous demon barber of Fleet Street, Sweeney Todd, slices and dices unsuspecting victims, with the help of Mrs. Lovett, in Stephen Sondheim’s famous musical. March 17-April 5. Call for ticket prices.
3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit; 313-872-1000. 

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

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

Meadow Brook: What was really going on when King Kong snatched Ann Darrow? These answers and more are solved in the comedic farce Kong’s Night Out. Starring Cindy Williams and Eddie Mekka. Through March 8. $24-$39
• In The Trip to Bountiful, Mrs. Carrie Watts tries to find her way to Bountiful, a town she considers home. March 18- April 12. Call for ticket prices.
207 Wilson Hall, Oakland University, 
Rochester; 248-377-3300.

Oakland University: Reminisce with characters in Follies, Sondheim’s musical that recaptures the glory days of a grand theater about to meet its end. March 26-April 5. $6-$16.
Varner Recital Hall, OU campus, Rochester; 248-370-2030.

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

Tipping Point: Rabbit Hole is a witty dialogue charting a family’s struggle to cope. Through March 15. $20-$28.
361 E. Cady St. Northville; 248-347-0003. tix@tippingpointtheatre.org.

Send information at least nine weeks in advance to: Listings, Hour Detroit, 117 W. Third St., Royal Oak, MI 48067. By fax: 248-691-4531. By e-mail: editorial@hourdetroit.com.