ART
Art Gallery of Windsor (AGW): 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. Through May 31.
• University of Windsor MFA grads Justin A. Langolis, Henrjeta Mece, and Steven Leyden Cochrane have organized Without, an exhibition of diverse arts. Opens April 10
• Open to artists living in Windsor and metro Detroit, the Windsor Biennial exhibits recent accomplishments in the field of contemporary art. Opens April 17.
• Art for Canada: An Illustrated History is an ongoing exhibition.
$3; members free. 401 Riverside Drive West, Windsor, Ontario; 519-977-0013; agw.ca.
Art Leaders Gallery: The beloved childhood favorite, Dr. Seuss, turns 105 this year. To commemorate the anniversary, rare glimpses into the seven decades of his artistic work will be displayed. The 105th Birthday of Dr. Seuss will include pieces from his unorthodox taxidermy, political commentary, his children’s book, and much more. Free. Through April 30.
33030 Northwestern Hwy., West Bloomfield; 248-539-0262.
Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center (BBAC): The 27th Annual Michigan Fine Arts Competition runs through April 17.
1516 S. Cranbrook. Birmingham; 248-644-0866; bbartcenter.org.
Community Arts: 2009 WSU MA Exhibition runs through April 3.
• Waynemania: 2009 Undergraduate Exhibition. Opens April 17.
150 Community Arts Building, Detroit; 313-577-2423.
Cranbrook Art Museum: 2009 Graduate Degree Exhibition of Cranbrook Academy of Art opens April 19. $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: Dr. Mercedes Volait, director of research at the CNRS, Paris, discusses the attitudes toward, and significance of, the Islamic art collections of French collectors in Egypt during the late 19th century in Discovering Islamic Art in Khedivial Cairo: Some Early Collections and Their Displays. 6:30 p.m. April 24.
• The DIA focuses on one of America’s most iconic artists in American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell. The exhibit details every Saturday Evening Post cover, as well as many of Rockwell’s paintings during his six decades of work. Through May 31.
• In the 1930s, Polish photographer Roman Vishniac was commissioned to chronicle the lives and stories of Jewish communities throughout Poland. In 1996, Jeffery Gusky set out to photograph what remained of Jewish culture throughout those same towns. Of Life and Loss: The Photographs of Roman Vishniac and Jeffrey Gusky brings their work together. Through July 12.
• Uniting approximately 100 drawings from the museum’s permanent collection, arranged thematically, Learning by Line: The Role of Drawing in the Eighteenth Century traces the styles and techniques of the period’s artists. Through June 15.
$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 the Year Exhibit explores a collection of 83 photographs from the world’s largest wildlife photography competition. Through April 26.
$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.
• Time and Place: Art of Detroit’s Cass Corridor from the Wayne State University Collection opens April 24.
On the campus of Wayne State University, 480 W. Hancock, Detroit; 313-993-7813. 

Ellen Kayrod Gallery: Highlighting the passion and excitement of senior life, Patricia Lay-Dorsey exhibits her photos of seniors at the Hannan Center for Senior Learning in Active Elders: The Photography of Patricia Lay-Dorsey. Through May 8.
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.; Noon-5 p.m. Sat.-Sun.
4884 Grand River, Detroit; 555arts.org.
Ford Gallery and University Art Gallery: Second Annual Senior Exhibition runs through April 24. Ford Gallery.
• The Michigan Comics Show showcases the editorial cartoons, gag panels, comic strips, and comic-book art of 50 Michigan artists and writers. The exhibit features only original work. Mike Thompson of the Detroit Free Press and Dave Coverly of Speed Bump are just a few to be included. Through June 5.
University Art Gallery; Eastern Michigan University, 114 Ford Hall, Yipsilanti; 734-487-0465.
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: Obsession runs through April 12.
215 S. Fourth, Ann Arbor; 734-997-7012.
Lawrence Street: Exposures: Photography‘09 is the 13th annual juried competition and exhibition of photography. Opening reception April 3. Poets will read their writings inspired by a piece in the gallery on the final night of the photography exhibition. April 24.
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. Through April 12.
• Senior Thesis in Studio Art II runs through May 17. Opening reception April 17.
2200 N. Squirrel Rd., Rochester; 248-370-2100.
Paint Creek Center for the Arts (PCCA): Object Permanence exhibits the work of sculptors Norwood Viviano and Sarah Lindley. Lindley’s work features miniature renditions of 17th- and 18th- century Dutch cabinet houses created from black clay slabs. Viviano presents his collection of bronze cast musical instruments. Through April 4.
• Taurus Burns Exhibit runs through April 4.
• Rochester Community Schools Exhibit opens April 21.
• The works of artist Amy Sacksteder opens April 21.
407 Pine St.; 248-651-4110; pccart.org.
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.
The Starkweather Society: Bloomfield Hills artist Lucia Lucas presents her original paintings of mixed media, oil, and acrylics. Opens April 3.
219 N. Main St., Romeo; 586-752-5700; starkweatherarts.com.
Susanne Hilberry Gallery: Potter Warren Mackenzie presents his work through April 11.
• Established in the Swiss art scene for her abstract drawings, Anne Lise Coste ’s works are exhibited. Opens April 17.
700 Livernois, Ferndale; 248-541-4700.
UMMA Off/Site: 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 ongoing.
Free. 1301 S. University, Ann Arbor; 734-763-8662; umma.umich.edu.
CLASSICAL
Brunch With Bach: Duo Diorama consists of Chinese violinist Minghuan Xu and Canadian pianist Winston Choi, who perform in recital. 11 a.m. April 12. $35 includes brunch; $15 concert only.
5200 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-7900; dia.org.
Chamber Music Society of Detroit: In their historic final tour, the Guarneri String Quartet performs Haydn’s String Quartet in G Minor, Op. 74, No. 3, The Rider ; Kodály’s String Quartet No. 2, Op. 10; and Ravel’s String Quartet in F Major. 8 p.m. April 11.
• Saxophonist Erik Rönmark with the Pacifica Quartet performs Mendelssohn’s String Quartet in A Minor, Op. 13, Zwilich’s Quintet for Alto Saxophone and String Quartet, and Beethoven’s String Quartet No. 15 in A Minor, Op. 132. 8 p.m. April 18. $25-$75.
Seligman Performing Arts Center, 22305 W. 13 Mile Rd., Beverly Hills; 248-855-6070; comehearcmsd.org.
Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings: String Sundae features two quintets, one by Dvorak for strings, the other by Mozart for clarinet and strings, accompanied by a recent piece for trombone, voice and strings by composer Erik Ewazen. David Jackson performs on trombone. 3 p.m. April 5. Grosse Pointe United Methodist Church, 211 Moross, Grosse Pointe Farms; 313-886-2363.
• With Corbin Wagner on the hand horn, Schubert and Spice is a program of Schubert’s Octet in F Major, a piece by Massimo Lauricella, and one by Telemann. 3 p.m. April 26. $10-$25.
First Presbyterian Church, 1669 W. Maple Rd., Birmingham; 248-644-2040; detroitchamberwinds.org.
Detroit Symphony Orchestra: Music Director Leonard Slatkin, along with DSO concertmaster Emmanuelle Boisvert, join forces for Berg’s Violin Concerto. Also included are Britten’s Four Sea Interludes and Brahms’ Symphony No. 4. April 2-4.
• Slatkin pairs Mahler’s Symphony No. 1 with Blumine (“Flowers”), which was the original second movement of the First, but dropped by Mahler from the final version. Christopher Rouse’s Friandises is also on the program. April 23-25.
• Slatkin conducts the DSO Civic Orchestra in a free tribute to the power of musical education. 11 a.m. April 24.
• Conductor Jerzy Semkow and pianist Jonathan Biss team up for a performance of Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3. Other pieces on this all-Beethoven show include the Egmont Overture and the ever-popular Symphony No. 5. April 30-May 3. $19-$123
Orchestra Hall in the Max M. Fisher Music Center, 3711 Woodward, Detroit; 313-576-5111; detroitsymphony.com.
Michigan Opera Theatre: Donizetti’s high-spirited The Elixir of Love (L’Elisir d’Amore) kicks off MOT’s spring season. The opera’s sure-fire hit is the tenor’s aria “Una furtiva lagrima.” Alternating tenors are Stephen Costello and John Nuzzo. His sweetheart, Adina, is portrayed by Ailyn Perez and Amanda Squitieri. March 28-April 5. $28-$130.
Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway, Detroit; 313-961-3500, motopera.org.
University Musical Society: Since 2005, conductor David Robertson has led the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. In his UMS debut, selections include Wagner’s Good Friday Music, Adams’ Guide to Strange Places, Zimmerman’s Canto di Speranza, and Sibelius’ Symphony No. 5 in E-flat Major, Op. 82. Finnish cellist Anssi Karttunen is soloist. 8 p.m. April 2. $10-75.
• Pianist Andras Schiff closes out his two-year, eight-concert cycle of complete Beethoven sonatas. April 9-11. $10-$56.
• The young German violinist Julia Fischer teams up with pianist Milana Chernyavaska in a recital including Mozart’s Sonata for Violin and Piano in C Major, Prokofiev’s Sonata No. 1 in F Minor for Violin and Piano, Op. 80, Beethoven’s Sonata No. 8 in G Major for Violin and Piano, Op. 30, No. 3, and Martinu’s Sonata No. 3 for Violin and Piano, H. 303. 8 p.m. April 24. $10-$50.
Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University, Ann Arbor; 734-763-3333.
• Classical guitarist John Williams returns to the UMS, after a 2007 appearance with fellow guitarist John Etheridge, to perform a program of original works as well as those of Bach, Vivaldi, Meyers, and many more. 8 p.m. April 1. $ 22-$46.
• Pianist Marc-André Hamelin, famed for his towering technique, and the Takács Quartet, known for their ability to successfully fuse each member’s distinct personalities, play Haydn’s String Quartet in G Major, Op. 77, Bartok’s String Quartet No. 1 in A minor, and Schumann’s Piano Quartet in E-flat major, Op. 44. 8 p.m. April 17. $22-$46.
Rackham Auditorium, 915 E. Washington, Ann Arbor; 734-763-3333; ums.org.
Vivace: The young pianist from Jackson, Mich., Christopher Atzinger, a medalist of national and international competitions, offers a recital. 8 p.m. April 4. $18-$24.
The Birmingham Temple, 28611 W. 12 Mile Rd., Farmington Hills; 248-477-1410.
DANCE
Fox Theatre: Riverdance, the kicky Irish stew of music, song, and dance, is back for seven farewell performances. April 8-12. $24.50-$75.
2211 Woodward, Detroit; 313-471-6611.
University Musical Society: Marie Chouinard is known for her ever-surprising innovations in the field of dance. Making a UMS debut, Compagnie Marie Chouinard explores the raw, wild, and honest aspects of the human form. April 25-26. $18-$42.
Power Center, 121 Fletcher, Ann Arbor; 734-763-3333; ums.org.
EVENTS
Final Four Friday: Ford Field will host a variety of activities beginning with “Final Four Friday, which includes watching the four participating teams at an open practice. Noon. Also, following open practice, there will be a college All-Star Game that is free and open to the public. April 3.
Ford Field, 200 Brush, Detroit; ncaamarchmadness2009.com
NCAA Hoop City: This is the ultimate basketball experience for all fans. Participants can run, jump, shoot, and play while enjoying basketball clinics, performances, photo-ops, prizes, and more. Noon-8 p.m. April 3, 5, 6. 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. April 4. $6-$8.
Cobo Center, One Washington Blvd., Detroit; ncaamarchmadness2009.com.
The Big Dance: The three-day entertainment-oriented festival is held in downtown Detroit. AT&T Block Party: 6 p.m.-10:30 p.m. April 3. Big Dance Party: 11 a.m.- 11 p.m. April 4. My Big Coke Fest: 2 p.m.-9 p.m. April 5.
Detroit Riverfront, east of GM headquarters; ncaamarchmadness2009.com.
The Road to the Final Four 5K Run/Walk: Before the final games begin, enjoy a run or walk along Detroit’s RiverWalk. Entry fee includes a commemorative long-sleeve Nike T shirt for the first 1,000, free admission to Hoop City, and a chance to win Final Four tickets. Proceeds benefit the United Way of Southeastern Michigan Learning Communities. 7 a.m. registration. 8:30 a.m. start time. $20-$25.
Starts at Cobo Center, One Washington Blvd., Detroit; ncaamarchmadness2009.com.
Final Four Championship Games: The much-anticipated 2009 Final Four Championships have arrived in Detroit. The first semifinal tip-off starts at 6:07 p.m. on April 4; the second game follows 40 minutes after the first. The National Championship Game will be held on April 6 and start at 9:21 p.m.
Ford Field, 200 Brush, Detroit; ncaamarchmadness2009.com.
NCAA Final Four Dribble: Thousands of youth, 18 years of age or younger, will be given the opportunity to dribble through the streets of downtown Detroit. Participants will begin at the intersection of Brush and Adams near Ford Field to Hoop City, which is at Cobo Center. 11:30 a.m. on-site registration. 12:30 p.m. pre-registered participant check-in begins. At 2 p.m., the NCAA Final Four Dribble begins. Free.
Brush and Adams St. Intersection, Downtown Detroit; ncaamarchmadness2009.com.
Great Lakes Art Fair: This bi-annual event offers work ranging from paintings, photography, jewelry, metalwork, printmaking and much more from local, regional, and national artists. This fair replaces the Sugarloaf Art Fair, which has visited the area bi-annually for the last 10 years. April 17-19.
Rock Financial Showplace, 46100 Grand River, Novi; greatlakesartfair.com
Strides of Hope Breast Cancer Walk: The walk is sponsored by the Shades of Pink Foundation and helps raise money to ease the financial burden of women diagnosed with breast cancer. 7:30 a.m.- noon. April 26.
The Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Rd., Royal Oak; shadesofpinkfoundation.org
Bookstock: Entering its seventh year, Bookstock has raised more than $350,000 for literacy projects in Detroit and Oakland County. The event features thousands of donated books, DVDs, CDs, books on tape, magazines, and records. Throughout the year, more than 700 volunteers work to collect objects and organize the event. Collectors can get a first- hand look at the selection with a pre-sale from 8:45 a.m.-11:45 a.m. April 26. The sale continues through May 3. Books are half-price on the last day.
Laurel Park Place, 37700 Six Mile Rd., Livonia; bookstock.info.
Veg Fest: John Salley, former Piston and host of Fox Sports’ The Best Damn Sports Show Period, speaks at this event on how going “veg” has improved his game and life. The event includes workshops, cuisine from local restaurants, cooking and raw food demonstrations, and more. Noon- 5 p.m. April 26. $5-$10.
Ferndale High School, 881 Pinecrest, Ferndale; vegmichigan.org.
FILM
Detroit Film Theatre: 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. Directors include Claude Chabrol, Jean Douchet, Jean-Daniel Pollet, Eric Rohmer, Jean Rouch, and Jean-Luc Godard. Through April 5.
• When the lives of an ex-con and his prostitute girlfriend and a prosperous married couple collide, the ensuing course of betrayal, passion, and faith keeps audiences on the edge of their seats in Revanche (Revenge). In German with English subtitles. April 3-12.
• Behind even one kiss can lay consequences. In Shall We Kiss, Gabriel (Michael Cohen), attempts to kiss Emilie (Julie Gayet), whom he had met earlier on the street. She, however, refuses. As the tale spreads to the lives of Emilie’s friends Judith (Virginie Ledoyen) and Nicolas (director Emmanuel Mouret), the audience observes the continued impact of her reluctance to kiss. In French with English subtitles. April 10-19.
• When Polish nobleman Boleslas Vorowski starts a secret liberation movement against the Russians, an unprecedented injury lands him in refuge with inventor Baron von Kempelen. The eccentric inventor hides the nobleman within a life-size chess-playing robot in an effort to destroy the Russians. The Chess Player is a 1927 silent film, based on the novel of Henri Dupuy-Mazuel. April 11.
• In 1957, director Sydney Lumet’s 12 Angry Men magnified Reginald Rose’s original screenplay of prejudice and passion behind American jurors. In 2007, Nikita Mikhalkov re-created Lumet’s film with the same universal ideals but with distinctly non-American culture twists. An Oscar nominee and Venice Prize Winner, 12 outlines the journey of a dozen jurors as they each attempt to put prejudices aside while determining the fate of a young Chechen boy. In Russian with English subtitles. April 17-26.
• In a collection of three short stories all set in modern Tokyo, Tokyo! brings together the works of today’s three most visionary filmmakers. In Interior Design, by Michel Gondr, a woman’s typical daily problems of living in a cramped Tokyo apartment are amplified when she begins to turn into a chair. South Korea’s Bong Joon-ho directed Shaking Tokyo, a story about a recluse whose world is turned awry by a pizza delivery girl. Merde, by Leos Carax, details the events and trial surrounding the emergence of a strange human-like creature from the sewers. In Japanese and French with English subtitles. April 24-26. All tickets $6.50-$7.50.
5200 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-7900; dia.org/dft.
Detroit Science Center IMAX: From the deep 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 what’s great is that you never have to leave the comfort of an IMAX seat.
• The scariest thing about the deep sea is that no one has any idea what’s going on down there. Sure, fish are swimming and sharks are eating and whales are singing, but there’s a lot that no one really knows about. New species are being found all the time. Where did those giant squids come from? And what’s up with that fish with the long sharp teeth and the light bulb above his head that tricks other fish into swimming close and then get eaten? In Deep Sea, you’ll get a glimpse of some of the Earth’s most unique, dangerous, and colorful creatures and their habitats. And the whole time you’ll stay dry – definitely a plus.
• What would one think of a bear that danced the waltz? Or what would you do if crabs took over the town and then attempted to cuddle your children? Showcasing 12 animals, each with their own unique story, Animalopolis is a hilarious film for kids and adults that’ll not only stimulate some creative imaginations but keep one laughing.
• If you’ve ever been on a ship, raft, or even jet-skiing in the ocean, you’ve probably witnessed a few friendly dolphins riding the waves behind. Or maybe you’ve even had the chance to swim beside these intelligent aquatic creatures. Dolphins explores the research of Dr. Kathleen Dudzinski and her colleagues as they travel across the world’s oceans in search of new answers in the field of dolphin communications and social behaviors. All through April. $7.25-$12.95.
5020 John R, Detroit; 313-577-8400; detroitsciencecenter.org.
The Redford Theatre: Over the years, comedic troupes have attempted to take foot where the Three Stooges had left off, but none have matched the slapstick wit of Larry, Mo, and Curly. The Redford screens six classic Stooges’ films in Three Stooges Festival. Showings include Horses Collars (1935), Restless Knights (1935), Three Little Beers (1935), Movie Maniacs (1936), Disorder in the Court (1936), and Cash & Carry (1937). $5. April 3-4.
• When more than 70 Allied soldiers attempt to outwit the leaders of the Nazi “escape proof” camp they are imprisoned in, a thrilling adventure across Europe ensues. Based on the true story of one of the largest Allied escape attempts during WW II, The Great Escape features Steve McQueen, James Garner, and Richard Attenborough. $4. April 17-18.
• In the 1927 silent film My Best Girl, the son of a millionaire decides to make a name for himself and takes a job in one of his father’s stockrooms. To the dismay of his mother, who has already prearranged a marriage with a high-society gal, the boy unintentionally falls in love with one of his female co-workers. John Luater performs the film’s score live on the Redford’s Barton Pipe Organ. $10. April 25.
17360 Lahser, Detroit; 313-537-2560; redfordtheatre.com.
MUSEUMS
Arab American National Museum: 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 Chinatown: Works in Progress is a special exhibit that tells the story of the tight-knit group of people who lived and worked in Detroit’s Chinatown, which was originally on Third Street, on the western fringe of downtown. In the early 1960s, it relocated to Cass Avenue. The exhibition includes memorabilia and photographs. Opens April 4. Through July 5.
• Detroit Artist’s Showcase displays the paintings of Robert Hopkin (1832-1909). His work has graced the likes of St. Anne’s Church and the original Detroit Opera House.
• 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.
• Detroits Classic TV Personalities salutes Bill Kennedy, Soupy Sales, and others. Through Sept. 6.
• 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: 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.
Greenfield Village: Reopens April 15. Nearly 100 historical buildings are here; visit notable attractions such as the birthplace of Henry Ford, Noah Webster’s home, and the home of Robert Frost. $14-$20.
20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn; 313-982-6001; thehenryford.org.
International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit: Three permanent exhibits are on display: The Ethel Averbach Dolls of the World, the Flags of the World, and the Mr. and Mrs. Larry S. Wilkonson Immigrant Ship Collection. Free. There’s also the International Café on the lower level.
111 E. Kirby, Detroit; 313-871-8600; iimd.org.
MUSIC
Kim Simmonds: John O’Leary and Kim Simmonds got together in 1965 and formed the Savoy Brown Blues Band — a British blues band from southwest London. Eventually, they dropped the “Blues Band” part and just became Savoy Brown. Then, eventually, Simmonds went solo, putting his personal style of blues on the records and taking it on the road. But don’t worry, the 61-year-old still records and tours with Savoy Brown — no bridges were burned. 8 p.m. April 2. $15.
Magic Bag, 22920 Woodward, Ferndale; 248-544-3030.
Lez Zeppelin: No, that’s not a typo. It’s Lez Zeppelin, an acclaimed all-female tribute band to — can you guess? — Led Zeppelin. Formed in 2004 in New York City, this quartet has been rocking Led Zeppelin tunes almost as well as the boys from Zeppelin themselves — the key word being almost. ‘Cause you know that no one can hit those Robert Plant high notes like Plant. 8 p.m. April 3. $15.
Magic Bag, 22920 Woodward, Ferndale; 248-544-3030.
Andrew Bird: Bird is a whistler. He loves the glockenspiel. He can really shred a mandolin. But his baby is the violin. This Bird really can fly with his indie/folk rock songs. 8 p.m. April 8. $23.
Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor; 734-668-8397.
The Haunted: There are metal bands, and then there are metal bands from Scandinavia. They tend to be heads (or should they be skulls?) above the rest and often faster, heavier, and darker than your run-of-the-mill, non-Scandinavian metal ensemble. The Haunted, hailing from the scary-sounding Gothenburg, Sweden, is just that. 8 p.m. April 14. $15.
The Majestic Theatre, 4120 Woodward, Detroit; 313-833-9700.
Dennis Stroughmatt et L’Esprit Creole: Growing up in southern Missouri, in what was once called “Upper Louisiana,” fiddler Dennis Stroughmatt learned what it meant to play authentic Cajun and zydeco music. Perfecting his French in a move to Quebec, Stroughmatt, with his trio L’Esprit Creole, brings to the Midwest a rare opportunity to hear the sounds of authentic Creole French music. 7:30 p.m. April 16. $15.
The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-761-1818.
The Guess Who: In 1968, producer Jack Richardson mortgaged his home for a little band from Winnipeg called The Guess Who. As Canada’s first international rock superstars, the men of The Guess Who created some monster hits, including “American Woman,” “These Eyes,” and “No Time.” 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. April 17. $25-$55.
Andiamo Celebrity Showroom, 7096 E. 14 Mile Rd., Warren; 586-268-3200.
Brian Vander Ark: Brian Vander Ark leads a simple life, but the Michigan native once led The Verve Pipe, selling more than 3 million records with the generation’s anthem, The Freshman. But when the band’s allure dimmed, Vander Ark sold his possessions and hit the road with a solo act. After his second solo album, Vander Ark returns to the stage. 7:30 p.m. April 19. $15-$22.
The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-761-1818.
Ray LaMontagne: It’s easy to see why Vanity Fair recently declared Ray LaMontagne “a genuine artist.” His voice, earthy and rustic, is comparable to Van Morrison. His style is varied, touching on pastoral folk, front-porch country, and a bit of blues. He’s currently on tour with his third critically acclaimed album, Gossip in the Grain. 7:30 p.m. April 19. $32.50.
The Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor; 734-668-8397.
Bruce Cockburn: Cockburn has more than 25 albums, a big deal for most but not surprising for a man whose senior yearbook quote was “wait quickly.” The folk-rock singer/songwriter isn’t merely prolific, though; he’s known for his adherence to quality work. 8 p.m. April 20. $30.
The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-761-1818.
The Flatlanders: It was in Lubbock, Texas, a town of cotton farmers, Texas Tech students, and Saturday-night honky-tonks, where The Flatlanders formed in the early ’70s. But shortly after releasing their debut album, which had little success, the band split. For 30 years, their debut album grew in acclaim, and in 1990 it was reissued. Since then, the country trio has released their third album, finally garnering the fans and status they hoped for decades ago. As they say, better late then never. 8 p.m. April 22. $32.50.
The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-761-1818.
Darrell Scott: Nominated for Grammys, and the recipient of numerous awards for his songwriting, Darrell Scott is surely not The Invisible Man — the title of his sixth album, in the realm of country music. Born on a tobacco farm in Kentucky, and brought up in a musician’s home, Scott has written songs for Garth Brooks, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, and The Dixie Chicks. In his solo work, Scott brings the cream of the crop into his Nashville home studio, delivering albums that impress critics and audiences. 8 p.m. April 23. $15.
The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-761-1818.
Flight of the Conchords: In the late ’90s, Bret McKenzie and Jemaine Clement started Flight of the Conchords, a unique musical mélange — one part comedic skit, one part rockin’ music. Think Tenacious D but British, and with a bit more folk and funk to their tunes. Soon after their emergence, they got some choice gigs (Edinburgh Fringe Festival and a six-part BBC Radio 2 broadcast series, to name a few), and in 2007 got their own self-titled TV show on HBO. 8 p.m. April 25. $38.50.
Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward, Detroit; 313-471-6611.
New Found Glory: Pop punk mania was hot, then it faded. But one group outlasted a lot of them: Florida’s New Found Glory. Their latest release, Not Without a Fight, brings back the band’s classic anthems and catchy riffs to a generation of concertgoers who are a little less punk, a bit more emo, but still just as enthusiastic. 6 p.m. April 26. $20.
Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. Fourth St., Royal Oak; 248-399-2980.
Colin Hay: All things Australian were the rage in the 1980s, including the main songwriter behind the popular “Down Under.” But he was actually Scottish. Colin Hay, a Scot turned Australian — and now a Yank — was responsible for some of the most unpredictable hits of the ’80s, making his band, Men at Work, an overnight sensation. But Hay eventually went solo. Now, promoting his first studio album in five years, Hay is back on tour with Are You Lookin’ at Me? 8 p.m. April 27. $20-$27.
The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; 734-761-1818.
THEATER
Bonstelle: Three families of the early 20th century tell their very different stories in the Tony Award winner Ragtime. $12-$20. April 17-19, 24-26.
3424 Woodward, Detroit; 313-577-2960.
Fox Theatre: After 11 Tony Award nominations and more than two record-breaking years at the Broadway Theatre, the inspiring story of a woman named Celie returns in Oprah Winfrey’s The Color Purple. $29.50-$65. April 14-19.
2211 Woodward, Detroit; 313-471-6611.
Detroit Repertory: Being a teenager isn’t easy for most, especially for Tyler Burnett, who not only is forced to share a room with his dying 80-year-old grandfather but also accidentally exposes the family’s closet homosexual to him. The world premiere of Paul Elliot’s Finding the Burnett Heart opens April 2. $17-$20.
13103 Woodrow Wilson, Detroit; 313-577-2972.
Detroit Opera House: Humorist David Sedaris, on a 27-city tour, stops by the DOH to read excerpts from his offbeat writings. 8 p.m. April 21. $37-$57.
1526 Broadway, Detroit; 313-965-4052.
Fisher: The infamous demon barber of Fleet Street, Sweeney Todd, slices and dices unsuspecting victims, and Mrs. Lovett gladly puts them in meat pies, in Stephen Sondheim’s famous musical. Through April 5.
• When children bang pots together, it’s quite annoying. When STOMP does it, it’s entertaining. The eight-member percussion troupe performs April 21-26. Call for ticket prices.
3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit; 313-872-1000.
The Gem Theatre: In the longest-running off-Broadway show, I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, the daily joys and perils of suburban relationships are humorously explored. $27.50-$42.50. Through May 17.
333 Madison, Detroit;313-963-9800.
Hilberry: Born Yesterday, by Garson Kanin, is the tale of Harry Brock, a crooked tycoon with plans to “buy” a few congressmen in D.C. However, his showgirl mistress is not as dumb as he thinks, and puts a damper in his plans. $25. Through April 11.
• Dale Wasserman’s One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest is an award-winning play on finding the beauty of life in the strangest of places, even when that place is an insane asylum. $25. April 3-May 8.
• Experience a tragic tale of family honor in Arthur Miller’s All My Sons. $25. Through May 16.
4743 Cass, Detroit; 313-577-2972.
Jewish Ensemble Theatre: Loving the same woman is a recipe for disaster in most friendships. But for the two men in Lionel Goldstein’s Halpern and Johnson, it’s what holds them together. $30-$39. April 21-May 17.
6600 W. Maple, West Bloomfield; 248-788-2900.
Meadow Brook: In The Trip to Bountiful, Mrs. Carrie Watts tries to find her way to Bountiful, a town she considers home. Through April 12.
• Modeled after the stories of “Jeeves,” by P.G. Wodehouse, By Jeeves follows a day in the life of Bertie Wooster and his servant, Jeeves. April 22-May 17. Call for ticket prices.
207 Wilson Hall, Oakland University, 
Rochester; 248-377-3300.
Oakland University: Reminisce with the characters in Follies, Sondheim’s nostalgic musical that recaptures the glory days of a grand theater about to meet its end. Through April 5. $6-$16.
• Under the direction of Fred Love, Oakland Senior musical theater students present an evening of performances in Meadow Brook Estate Senior Showcases. $8-$16. April 18-19.
Varner Recital Hall, OU campus, Rochester; 248-370-2030.
Planet Ant Theatre: Director Nancy Elizabeth Kammer presents a night of Shakespeare’s sonnets. $10-15. April 24- May 16.
2357 Caniff, Hamtramck; 313-365-4948.
The Ringwald Theatre: Tracey Letts’ first play, Killer Joe, is a sensational tale of an ex-cop turned hit man. Hired by a family looking to get their mother’s insurance money, the play becomes comically violent. $10-$20. April 3-27.
22742 Woodward, Ferndale; 248-545-5545.
The Studio Theatre: Combine a bar and a young naïve nun and what do you get? Nice People Dancing to Good Country Music. $10-12. April 9-11, 16-18.
4743 Cass, Detroit, on the lower level of the Hilberry Theatre; 313-577-2972.
Tipping Point: Is it possible to perform all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays in 97 minutes with only three actors? According to director Tony Caselli, it is. $20-$28. April 22-May 31.
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.
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