Check Out 47 Concerts, Theater Performances, and More Coming to Metro Detroit this Fall

As we (finally) return to experiencing the arts in person, here’s the best music, comedy, theater, art, and television happenings of the entire season
1243
Nas performs at Pine Knob Theatre with fellow co-headliner Wu-Tang Clan on Sept. 3. // Photo courtesy of 313 Presents

September

Sept. 2-5
MUSIC

Detroit Jazz Festival: For more than 40 years, this celebrated four-day festival has been bringing the finest local, national, and international jazz musicians to downtown Detroit. This year’s event offers a diverse lineup of artists such as Grammy Award-nominated trumpeter Theo Croker and Grammy-winning vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant. No cost. Campus Martius and Hart Plaza, Detroit; detroitjazzfest.org

Sept. 3
FILM

The Ape Star: This animated, family-friendly feature from Swedish director and animator Linda Hambäck tells the story of Jonna, a young girl who is adopted by a friendly ape. An adoptee herself, Hambäck drew from her own lived experiences to weave a nuanced tale of love and acceptance. Admission is complimentary with online registration. No cost. Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit; dia.org

Sept. 3
MUSIC

Wu-Tang Clan and Nas: Hiphop fans will have a chance to catch performances by two legendary acts in one night when influential collective Wu-Tang Clan and Grammy Award-winning rapper Nas unite for the NY State of Mind tour. The icons will stop at Pine Knob Music Theatre this month, where attendees can expect to hear classics like “C.R.E.A.M.” and “If I Ruled the World.” $29.50+. Pine Knob Music Theatre, Clarkston; 313presents.com

Sept. 3 & 4
FILM

Distant (Uzak): This 2002 film by Turkish director and producer Nuri Bilge Ceylan will show for two days at the Detroit Institute of Arts’ Detroit Film Theatre. It has won more than 30 awards since its debut, including Grand Prix and Best Actor prizes at the 2003 Cannes Film Festival. A melancholic story about family and loneliness, the plot follows a pair of cousins who attempt to bond despite finding themselves at very different places in life. $7.50+. Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit; dia.org

Sept. 6 & 7
MUSIC

Lil Nas X: Metro Detroiters will have two opportunities to catch Lil Nas X this month during his first national concert tour. Last fall, the rapper followed up his Grammy Award-winning breakout hit “Old Town Road” with another winner — his latest record, Montero. Five tracks from the album, including lead single “Montero (Call Me by Your Name),” earned No. 1 spots on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart. $60+. Fillmore Detroit, Detroit; livenation.com

Sept. 9
MUSIC

Echo & the Bunnymen: The England-based new-wave rockers known for classic ’80s tracks like “The Killing Moon” and “Lips Like Sugar” will celebrate their 40th anniversary with a monthlong North American tour. Founding members Ian McCulloch and Will Sergeant will be joined by a cast of touring musicians when the band stops at The Fillmore this month. $69+. Fillmore Detroit, Detroit; livenation.com

Sept. 9
COMEDY

John Mulaney: Following a four-year stint as a writer on NBC’s Saturday Night Live, this Chicago-based comedian launched a series of acclaimed stand-up specials, including 2018’s Emmy Award-winning Kid Gorgeous. He will perform two shows at Detroit’s Fox Theatre this month as he embarks on the second half of his From Scratch tour. $55+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

Sept. 9 & 10
COMEDY

The Second City: This revered Chicago-based comedy company will celebrate more than 60 years of laughs by taking its hilarious two-act revue on the road. Along the way, it will bring two nights of sketch comedy, music, and improv performances to Ann Arbor. Known as a proving ground for young comedic talents, The Second City boasts some of the country’s most notable comedians as alums. Among them are Steve Carell, Tina Fey, Mike Myers, and Amy Poehler. $26+. The Ark, Ann Arbor; theark.org

Sept. 11
COMEDY

Kurtis Conner: Boasting nearly 4 million subscribers on YouTube, this Canadian stand-up comedian rose to fame on the video-sharing app Vine before it was shut down in 2017. He is also the host of the podcast Very Really Good, where he interviews guests and discusses topics ranging from TikTok trends to social advocacy. $39.50+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com

Comedian, actor, writer, and producer Craig Ferguson stops by the Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts on Sept. 16 as part of The Fancy Rascal Tour. // Photo courtesy of Hollywood Casino

Sept. 16
COMEDY

Craig Ferguson: This Peabody and Emmy Award-winning comedian, actor, writer, producer, author, and director will stop at Detroit’s historic Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts for one night during The Fancy Rascal Tour this month. Best known stateside for his stint hosting CBS’s The Late Late Show from 2005 through 2014, the Glasgow, Scotland, native has also made appearances on The Daily Show, Real Time with Bill Maher, and The Howard Stern Show. $45+. Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts, Detroit; musichall.org

Sept. 16
MUSIC

Spiritualized: Former Spacemen 3 frontman Jason Pierce has been cranking out gospel-tinged, psychedelic space rock with this England-based outfit for more than three decades. The group will stop at St. Andrew’s Hall this month to support its new album, Everything Was Beautiful, and celebrate the 25th anniversary of its acclaimed 1997 LP Ladies and Gentlemen, We Are Floating in Space. $35+. St. Andrew’s Hall, Detroit; livenation.com

Sept. 16 & 17
MUSIC

Kid Rock: The Romeo native will be accompanied by special guests, including rock band Foreigner and country music singer Trey Lewis, when he plays two hometown gigs at Pine Knob this month. The shows are part of a 24-city North American tour supporting the multi-platinum-selling rapper’s new album, Bad Reputation, which released in March. $45.50+. Pine Knob Music Theatre, Clarkston; 313presents.com

Chris Rock brings his stand-up act to the Fox Theatre for 3 nights. // Photo courtesy of 313 Presents

Sept. 16-18
COMEDY

Chris Rock: The Grammy and Emmy Award-winning comedian, actor, and writer will spend six months touring North America and Australia on his Ego Death World Tour this year. The massive outing comes on the heels of Rock’s infamous Oscars altercation with Will Smith, which launched the Saturday Night Live alum into the headlines. $49.50+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

Southern rock group 38 Special take the Music Hall for Performing Arts stage on Sept. 23. // Photo courtesy of Hollywood Casino

Sept. 23
MUSIC

38 Special: Beloved for ’80s hits like “Hold On Loosely” and “Caught Up in You,” this Southern rock group led by vocalist and guitarist Don Barnes has sold 20 million albums worldwide. More than four decades after the band’s inception, Barnes and company continue to bring bombastic, high-energy live performances to more than 100 U.S. cities every year. $45+. Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts, Detroit; musichall.org

Sept. 29
MUSIC

Big Wild: Under the stage name Big Wild, Massachusetts-based electronic musician Jackson Stell creates larger-than-life soundscapes that support his airy and diverse range of vocal talents. His debut full-length album, Superdream, features elements of indie pop, disco, and house music. $30+. Royal Oak Music Theatre, Royal Oak; royaloakmusictheatre.com

Sept. 30
COMEDY

George Lopez: After nearly 40 years in the public eye, this comedian and actor’s storied career boasts multiple self-produced sitcoms, roles in dozens of major films, and a smattering of acclaimed standup specials, including 2009’s Grammy Award-nominated Tall, Dark, and Chicano. Known for an observant brand of comedy that explores race relations and Mexican American culture, he’ll pack big laughs when he stops at Detroit’s Music Hall during his OMG Hi! tour. $65+. Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts, Detroit; musichall.org

Sept. 30-Oct. 1
FILM

Clue Shadowcast: The classic 1985 film comes to life in this collaboration between The Goblin King Players and the Redford Theatre. Costumed live actors will move in step with the characters as the movie plays across the big screen behind them, creating an engaging movie experience for fans both new and old. $20. Redford Theatre, Detroit; redfordtheatre.com


October

Oct. 1-29
ART

Detroit Society of Women Painters and Sculptors: Since 1903, the Detroit Society of Women Painters and Sculptors has played a pivotal role in promoting and empowering the metro area’s female artists. This enriching exhibition at the Northville Art House will highlight works by the society’s members. No cost. Northville Art House, Northville; northvillearthouse.org

Oct. 2
MUSIC

Jack Harlow: This Kentucky-born rapper and producer skyrocketed to mainstream success with the release of his 2020 single “What’s Poppin,” which took the TikTok universe by storm. Now, the Grammy Award-nominated Harlow heads out on a North American tour in support of his new album, Come Home the Kids Miss You, which debuted at No. 3 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart. $29.50+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

Oct. 2-Jan. 22
ART

Van Gogh in America: To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the DIA’s acquisition of Vincent van Gogh’s 1887 work Self Portrait, this exhibition will showcase roughly 70 authentic works by the celebrated artist. Attendees will also have access to an accompanying illustrated catalogue containing essays by the exhibit’s curator and other Van Gogh scholars. $7+. Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit; dia.org

Oct. 4
MUSIC

The Who: Legendary British rockers Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend return to North American soil this fall for their The Who Hits Back! tour. Expect to hear classics like “Won’t Get Fooled Again” and “Baba O’Riley” when the band stops at Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena this month with support from Barenaked Ladies singer Steven Page. $41+. Little Caesars Arena, Detroit; 313presents.com

Oct. 5
MUSIC

Gorillaz: Known as the world’s most successful cartoon band, this alternative hip-hop collective led by Blur front man Damon Albarn will dazzle fans with a 14-piece live band and guest performers when it stops at Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena this October. The Grammy Award-winning group catapulted to worldwide fame in the early 2000s with radio-friendly singles “Clint Eastwood” and “Feel Good Inc.” $55+. Little Caesars Arena, Detroit; 313presents.com

Oct. 5-30
THEATER

Little Shop of Horrors: This classic rock musical by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman tells the story of a timid floral shop worker who discovers a new singing, trash-talking breed of plant that feeds on human blood. The production is suitable for adults and children of at least middle school age. $37+. Meadow Brook Theatre, Rochester; mbtheatre.com

Known for hits “Truth Hurts” and “About Damn Time,” Lizzo stops by Little Caesars Arena as part of her The Special Tour. // Photo courtesy of AB + DM

Oct. 6
MUSIC

Lizzo: As her new single “About Damn Time” takes over social media apps like TikTok and Instagram, this three-time Grammy Award-winning singer will treat fans to a live tour with support from Atlanta-based rapper Latto. Fans can also catch Lizzo on Amazon Prime Video’s most popular reality show, Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls. $39.50+. Little Caesars Arena, Detroit; 313presents.com

Oct. 8
COMEDY

Desi Banks: With more than 7.7 million followers on Instagram, this Atlanta-based comedian and actor went viral for his hilarious character impressions and collaborations with internet celebrities B. Simone and Pretty Vee. Catch his irreverent and politically incorrect brand of comedy when he brings his stand-up show to Motor City Casino’s Sound Board theater. $34+. SoundBoard at Motor City Casino Hotel, Detroit; 313presents.com

Oct. 8
COMEDY

Bill Maher: On his HBO news-talk series Real Time with Bill Maher, this Emmy Award-winning comedian rehashes the week’s events with the help of topical guests and a searing sense of humor. Expect to laugh at politics, religion, and everything in between when he stops at Detroit’s Fox Theatre for a night of stand-up. $39.50+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

Oct. 9
THEATER

Disney Junior Live on Tour: Costume Palooza: Fan-favorite Disney characters will sing, dance, perform acrobatic acts, and generally dazzle audiences with 3D special effects in this immersive new family-friendly show. Featuring hit songs from the Disney Junior series as well as original music, the show invites attendees old and young to interact and participate — costumes are encouraged. $20+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com.

Oct. 16
MUSIC

King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard: This prolific psychedelic rock band hailing from Melbourne, Australia, has garnered a cult following, thanks to its electrifying sound and its reputation for frenetic, engaging live shows. See what all the fuss is about when the band stops at the Masonic Temple in support of its latest full-length album, Omnium Gatherum. $32. Masonic Temple Theatre, Detroit; themasonic.com

Oct. 20-22
COMEDY

Dave Attell: On his Comedy Central series, Insomniac with Dave Attell, this New York-based comedian, actor, and writer wandered the streets of America’s cities after dark in an alcohol-fueled haze. Since the show’s conclusion in 2004, Attell has lent a hand to various comedic projects, including through appearances on Louie, Inside Amy Schumer, and The Simpsons. $35. Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle, Royal Oak; comedycastle.com

Oct. 21
MUSIC

Kool & the Gang: The longest-performing R&B group in history will make a stop at Detroit’s Music Hall for a night of soul, funk, and disco. Relive the good times as the band trawls its treasure trove of party-friendly tracks, like “Celebration” and “Get Down on It.” Plus, hear the group’s newest single, “Pursuit of Happiness.” $60+. Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts, Detroit; musichall.org

Oct. 21-April 9
ART

Printmaking in the Twenty-First Century: This celebration of contemporary printmaking will showcase more than 40 pieces, ranging from intricate etchings and engravings to screen prints, letterpress, and linocuts. Featured artists will include Hernan Bas, Enrique Chagoya, Marc Dion, and Nicole Eisenman, among others. No cost with museum admission. Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit; dia.org

Oct. 22
COMEDY

Kathleen Madigan: You may have caught this prolific touring comedian on The Tonight Show — where she’s appeared a whopping 25 times — or as a guest on the Jerry Seinfeld-hosted series Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee. She won the American Comedy Award for Best Female Comedian in 1996 and is sure to bring big laughs when she stops at the Royal Oak Music Theatre this October. $35+. Royal Oak Music Theatre, Royal Oak; royaloakmusictheatre.com

Oct. 28
MUSIC

The Piano Guys: This collaboration between pianist Jon Schmidt, cellist Steven Sharp Nelson, and producers Paul Anderson and Al van der Beek originated in a southern Utah piano shop in 2011. Hear instrumental interpretations of popular songs by artists like BTS and Bruno Mars as well as selections from the group’s own catalogue of original music. $37+. Masonic Temple Theatre, Detroit; themasonic.com


November

Nov. 2
MUSIC

Smashing Pumpkins: This Grammy Award-winning alternative rock band veered into synth-pop territory with its 2020 double album, Cyr. With more new music on the horizon in 2022, the group will embark on its first tour since 2018 with support from fellow alt-rockers Jane’s Addiction. $49+. Little Caesars Arena, Detroit; 313presents.com

Nov. 4
MUSIC

Alex G: Over the course of his 12-year career, singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Alex Giannascoli has crafted a reputation for delivering intimate, melodic indie pop with a unique lo-fi edge. His 2019 album House of Sugar was named one of the year’s best by GQ, Esquire, Pitchfork, and several other outlets. $23+. Majestic Theatre, Detroit; majesticdetroit.com

Nov. 4 & 5
COMEDY

Katt Williams: The Emmy Award-winning actor and comedian will bring his edgy stand-up show to Detroit on the heels of his popular World War III Tour. After more than 20 years of both small- and large-screen appearances, Williams’ sharp, dialogue-focused brand of comedy has cultivated a loyal fan base and sold-out arenas all over the country. $64+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

Australian trio, Sons of the East, stop by The Ark in Ann Arbor as part of their first North American tour. // Photo courtesy of Sons of the East

Nov. 7
MUSIC

Sons of the East: This Australian indie folk trio boasts more than 160 million streams on Spotify and more than 40 million views on YouTube, thanks to songs like “Into the Sun” and “Come Away.” The group will stop in Ann Arbor as part of its first North American tour, which supports a forthcoming full-length debut album. $20. The Ark, Ann Arbor; theark.org

Nov. 11-Dec. 17
ART

Small Works All-Media Exhibition: View compelling twoand three-dimensional small-scale artworks at this seasonal exhibition at the Northville Art House. All pieces measure less than 16 inches in length, width, and height. An opening reception will be held on Friday, Nov. 11, between the hours of 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. No cost. Northville Art House, Northville; northvillearthouse.org

Nov. 12
COMEDY

Eddie Griffin: This comedian and actor rose to fame starring as one of two title characters in the UPN sitcom Malcolm & Eddie. He has also starred in hilarious big-screen comedies like 2002’s Undercover Brother and 1999’s Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo. Comedy Central ranked him No. 62 on its list of the 100 greatest stand-up artists of all time. $42+. Sound Board at Motor City Casino Hotel, Detroit; 313presents.com

Nov. 14
MUSIC

AFI: Blending elements of punk, hardcore, and emo music, this goth-rock institution will stop at Detroit’s Majestic Theatre as it tours in support of its 2021 album Bodies. The band has been pumping out music for misfits for more than 25 years, first achieving commercial success with its 2003 album Sing the Sorrow. $35. Majestic Theatre, Detroit; majesticdetroit.com

Nov. 18-Dec. 24
THEATER

A Christmas Carol: Enjoy a live rendition of Charles Dickens’ popular holiday classic about a mean-spirited miser and the ghosts that help him change his ways. Adapted for the stage by Charles Nolte, the production has been a Meadow Brook Theatre Christmas tradition for 40 years. Attendees of all ages are welcome. $37+. Meadow Brook Theatre, Rochester; mbtheatre.com

Nov. 18-20
THEATER

Jurassic World Live Tour: The Jurassic Park universe comes to life at this exciting entertainment experience. More than 24 film-accurate, life-size animatronic dinosaurs will take the stage amid projections and jungle scenery as a new storyline unfolds. Featuring jaw-dropping stunts, as well as selections from the Jurassic World score, this immersive production is sure to entertain the entire family. $25+. Little Caesars Arena, Detroit; 313presents.com

Nov. 19
MUSIC

Chloe Moriondo: This 19-year-old singer-songwriter cut her teeth on YouTube, where she claims more than 3 million followers and over 130 million video views. Experience her dreamy indie-pop sound live when she tours in support of her 2021 album Blood Bunny, which includes the tracks “I Want to Be with You” and “I Eat Boys.” $23+. Majestic Theatre, Detroit; majesticdetroit.com

Nov. 19 & 20
COMEDY

Jim Gaffigan: Catch this hilarious Emmy Award-winning actor, writer, producer, author, and comedian when he stops at the Fox Theatre for a pair of stand-up gigs, along his new The Fun tour. Gaffigan, who is known for his uniquely observant brand of comedy, can also be seen in the upcoming Disney film Peter Pan and Wendy, starring alongside Jude Law and Yara Shahidi. $40+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

Nov. 22-27
THEATER

Elf the Musical: Catch Buddy the Elf and all his whimsical Christmas antics live on stage at this theatrical production of the hit 2003 Will Ferrell film. Featuring songs by Tony Award nominees Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin, it’s sure to get everyone into the holiday spirit. $40+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com

Nov. 28
MUSIC

The Smile: This new project from Radiohead singer Thom Yorke and guitarist Jonny Greenwood made a surprise debut at the Glastonbury Festival last May. Rounded out by jazz drummer Tom Skinner, the group’s eclectic sound pays homage to progressive rock, Afrobeat, and post-punk artists of the past and present. $59+. Masonic Temple Theatre, Detroit; themasonic.com


This story is from the September 2022 issue of Hour Detroit magazine. Read more in our digital edition