Don’t Miss Events

THEATER

April 29–May 17

Hamilton: The groundbreaking musical that turns the story of the American Revolution into a mesmerizing hip-hop opera will return to Detroit’s Fisher Theatre this month. Writer and actor Lin-Manuel Miranda received overwhelming critical praise when Hamilton debuted on Broadway in 2015 — and scooped up a record-breaking 16 Tony Award nominations (and 11 wins) the following year. $80+. Fisher Theatre, Detroit; atgtickets.com.

May 2

The Hobbit: Take a journey to Middle-earth with the Detroit Opera Youth Chorus as they perform an operatic adaptation of the beloved J.R.R. Tolkien tale. The family-friendly production features lovable characters, poetic storytelling, toe-tapping music, and all the wonder and warmth that made the book a timeless classic. $15+. Detroit Opera House, Detroit; detroitopera.org.

May 6–June 7

King James: A pair of Cleveland Cavaliers fans become unlikely friends in this play by Pulitzer Prize finalist Rajiv Joseph. Set across the 12 years between LeBron James’s 2004 rookie season and the 2016 NBA Championship, the story explores the many ways in which a shared love of sports can act as a vector for deeper human connection. $52+. Detroit Public Theatre, Detroit; detroitpublictheatre.org.

MUSIC

May 10

Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons: Catch one last live performance by the original Jersey Boy as the 92-year-old vocalist heads out on his Last Encores tour. Valli racked up 29 Billboard Top 40 hits with the Four Seasons, including “December, 1963,” “Sherry,” and “Walk Like a Man.” $119+. Detroit Opera House, Detroit; detroitopera.org.

May 17

Joe Jackson: The British musician, singer, and songwriter burst onto the new-wave scene in the late ’70s with hits like “Is She Really Going Out with Him?” and “It’s Different for Girls.” He’ll promote his new album, Hope and Fury, when he performs at the Masonic Temple this month. $77+. Masonic Jack White Theatre, Detroit; axs.com.

ART

May 21–24

Apartment House 1776: Just in time for America’s 250th birthday, this collaboration between Detroit Opera and Cranbrook Art Museum imagines the nation’s colonial history as a chorus of voices drifting down from open apartment windows. The immersive experience was originally designed by artist and composer John Cage for the country’s bicentennial anniversary in 1976. $49. Cranbrook Art Museum, Bloomfield Hills; detroitopera.org.

FILM

April 27–May 6

Lenore Marwil Detroit Jewish Film Festival: This year’s festival kicks off with a special conversation with award-winning composer Marc Shaiman (Hairspray; Sister Act) as he discusses his time on Broadway, living in Hollywood, and his New York Times best-selling memoir. On May 3, Broadway legend Tovah Feldshuh will be on hand to discuss Tovah, the new documentary chronicling her life and career. $12+. Berman Center for the Performing Arts, West Bloomfield; thejdetroit.org.

May 7

The Road Home: This new documentary explores mental health issues, housing insecurity, and homelessness in Washtenaw County as recent federal funding cuts leave vulnerable populations with dwindling access to resources. A four-person panel will convene after the film concludes to discuss the themes and their potential solutions. Free admission. Michigan Theater, Ann Arbor; marquee-arts.org.

May 15 and 17

Harlan County USA: In 1973, budding filmmaker Barbara Kopple headed to a small town in Kentucky to film striking coal miners as they battled Duke Power Company for fair wages and safer working practices. Kopple ended up spending years with the miners and their families, documenting their struggles through their own words and stories. Harlan County USA went on to win the Academy Award for Best Documentary in 1976 and set a new standard for nonfiction filmmaking. $13+. Detroit Film Theatre, Detroit; dia.org.

DANCE

May 8

Dancing with the Stars: Live!: Performers from the hit reality competition show will flaunt viral dances and brand-new routines by Emmy Award-winning choreographer Mandy Moore when they arrive at the Fox Theatre this month. Hosted by actress, model, and dancer Elaine Hendrix, the show also features Alan Bersten, Brandon Armstrong, Valentin Chmerkovskiy, Jenna Johnson, Britt Stewart, Daniella Karagach, Emma Slater, Ezra Sosa, Pasha Pashkov, and Hailey Bills. $71+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com.

COMEDY & CONVENTIONS

May 8

Two Funny Mamas: Sherri Shepherd and Kym Whitley bring their hilariously relatable podcast to Detroit just in time for Mother’s Day. As real-life friends of more than 25 years, the duo offer unfiltered takes on motherhood, dating, relationships, pop culture, and everything in between. $64+. Sound Board at MotorCity Casino Hotel, Detroit; 313presents.com.

May 15–17

Motor City Comic Con: Superfans can meet celebrities and industry professionals, discover rare collector’s items, and browse inspired artwork at this annual ode to comic books, games, TV, and cinema. Shaun of the Dead star Simon Pegg, The Boys’ Karl Urban, and WWE star wrestler Kane are just a few of the celebrities set to grace this year’s convention. $35+. Vibe Credit Union Showplace, Novi; motorcitycomiccon.com.

May 22

Pete Davidson: Since leaving Saturday Night Live in 2022, the NYC-based comedian and actor has appeared in an array of films and television shows — including his old stomping grounds at SNL, to which he has returned as a host. $118+. Fillmore Detroit, Detroit; ticketmaster.com.

May 23

Live, Lit, and Laughter: Kick off the holiday weekend with lots of laughs at this star-studded night of comedy at the Fox Theatre, hosted by MTV alum Kountry Wayne. The lineup includes fellow MTV personality Bill Bellamy, along with comedians DeRay Davis, Tony Rock, Kelly Kellz, Bubba Dub, and Foolish. $88+. Fox Theatre, Detroit; 313presents.com.