Complain about the humidity all you like, but St. Louis’ arts lovers seem to prefer the outdoors—even in August. You’ll find concerts in our many parks all spring and summer, and we’re embarrassingly lucky when it comes to high-quality outdoor theater, including Shakespeare Festival St. Louis and The Muny. And as with those traditional picnics before Opera Theatre of Saint Louis performances, we find a way to spend some time outdoors, even if the play isn’t being staged in the open air. We’ve always been clever at using outdoor public space to its full advantage for art and music events, whether it’s Old Post Office Plaza, Forest Park, or the steps beneath the Arch. Not to say we don’t dig some high-blast A/C in the dead heat of July—when we head into the Tivoli for the St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase, for instance. Here’s our roundup of events for the coming months, though many had not been announced at press time. As always, this is just a sampling, limited by what was announced prior to our press deadline—events are always being announced, so be sure to follow our A&E blog and check our calendar for the latest.
APRIL
April 3 | On Fillmore with Glen Kotche and Darin Gray
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If you had to choose a high point of New Music Circle’s season—well, good luck. On Fillmore keeps finding eclectic ways to fulfill its mission of connecting audiences with improvisational and experimental music. In April, NMC brings the duo, consisting of St. Louis bassist Darin Gray and Chicago percussionist Glenn Kotche, back to St. Louis for the first time in a decade. “Darin and Glen, their musical résumés have been crammed with all types of activities,” says NMC program coordinator Jeremy Kannapell. That includes collaborations and solo work for Gray, a long-running stint in Wilco for Kotche, and a recent session recording together in Brazil, the influence of which Kannapell is eager to hear. “The amount they’ve developed since their last St. Louis visit,” he says, “would be substantial.” $20, $10 students and artists. 7:30 p.m. The Stage at KDHX, 3524 Washington, 314-477-3813, newmusiccircle.org.
April 11 | Lo-Fi Cherokee
If you ever wanted to be a video vixen, now’s your chance. Documenter of all things St. Louis Bill Streeter brings a massive one-day music video shoot—the fourth annual—to the South Side’s bustling Cherokee Street, directing 18 acts at various locations around the DIY hotspot. “Cherokee represents this unique small business organic growth that you don’t see in other neighborhoods,” Streeter says—a perfect incubator for creative expression for new bands alongside more established ones. He won’t reveal the acts just yet but says that the artists themselves, as well as the genres and styles, are more diverse than in past years. “I call it, like in the ’70s, AM radio,” Streeter says. “This year, we’re going to have everything from folk and country to rock to hip-hop.” He’ll be giving bands more direction than in years past, and members of the crowd may find themselves drafted into being extras. Free. Various times and locations on Cherokee Street, lofistl.com.
April 22–May 3 | The Black Rep, Once on This Island
The Black Rep wraps another season, this time with a lush Caribbean musical telling a tale of the power of love and its triumph over all, even death. The gods—and a classist society with unfair expectations in place—play havoc with young lovers, who try to triumph over their lonesome fates. “It’s a tragic love story, you know,” says Ron Himes, founder and producing director of the Black Rep. A girl who would defy the gods for her love dies alone and ends up as the Tree of Life, giving shade and shelter to generations. “It’s a testament and testimony to unconditional love,” says Himes. The theater company finishes the season where it began, at the Edison Theatre at Washington University. “It will be a show for the entire family, which is really, really important to us,” Himes says. $35–$45. Call for times. Edison Theatre, 6445 Forsyth, 314-534-3810, theblackrep.org.
April 11—September 7 | State of Deception: The Power of Nazi Propaganda
How did the Nazi party evolve from an obscure fringe group into the juggernaut it became? A multimedia exhibit from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum comes to the Missouri History Museum and examines how the party rose. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell, 314-746-4599, mohistory.org.
April 18 | Mythbusters: Jamie & Adam Unleashed!
Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage are television’s favorite scientific skeptics, putting the lie to tall tales on the Discovery Channel for 13 seasons. The pair’s stage show involves audience participation and live experiments. $32–$175. 8 p.m. Fox Theatre, 527 N. Grand, 314-534-1678, fabulousfox.com.
April 20 | Sufjan Stevens
Brooklyn’s favorite Detroit import, Sufjan Stevens, plays the Peabody Opera House, with Cold Specks opening. The musical polyglot and mystic released his latest effort, Carrie & Lowell, in the spring. $40. 7 p.m. Peabody Opera House, 1400 Market, 314-499-7600, peabodyoperahouse.com.
April 27 | The St. Louis Visionary Awards
Women working in the arts, nominated by their peers, have been recognized by Grand Center since 2003. The event recognizes excellence in several categories: Major Contributor to the Arts, Outstanding Arts Professional, Successful Working Artist, Outstanding Community Arts Educator, Emerging Artist, and Community Impact Artist. $50. 6 p.m. Centene Center for Arts and Education, 3547 Olive, 314-289-4131, vizawards.org.
April 29 | Elvis Perkins
Singer-songwriter Elvis Perkins has taken the leap into putting out records on his own label, MIR. He’s bringing his tour in support of I, Aubade to the Old Rock House. $15 & $25. 8 p.m. Old Rock House, 1200 S. Seventh, 314-588-0505, oldrockhouse.com.
Art Stuff I’m Doing This Summer: Ron Himes, Founder and Producing Director, The Black Rep
April is a busy time for Himes, but that won’t stop him from getting out into the city and seeing what others have on offer. The 14th Street Artist Community Gallery is dedicated to providing a venue for emerging artists and providing classes and workshops to young artists. The gallery focuses on showing the works of African American, Hispanic, Native American, and West Indies diaspora artists and giving collectors and artists the chance to interact. Himes won’t miss the gallery’s April opening. The Slaughter Project, resident dance company at Washington University, brings Release! to the Edison at 8 p.m. April 4. Himes will be there and thinks that you should be, too. He’ll also find time for the two-night release party for the Bosman Twins at Jazz at the Bistro, 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. April 10 & 11, in support of the duo’s latest effort, When Lions Roar.
MAY
May 1 | Grand Reopening, Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts
The Pulitzer’s evocative Tadao Ando–designed building has been closed for renovation, and the much-anticipated reopening will show the space off proudly. Solo exhibitions of works by Alexander Calder, Fred Sandback, and Richard Tuttle, plus a sound installation, will give visitors new perspective on the building, which will boas 40 percent more light-filled and acoustically beautiful space. “We try to show artwork that is in dialogue with the architecture,” says associate curator Tamara Schenkenberg, who is curating Sandback’s “64 Three-Part Pieces,” which hasn’t been shown since its 1975 premiere in Munich. Kristin Fleischmann Brewer, manager of programs, says that the sound program, Press Play, kicks off with a site-specific choral arrangement for the opening and continues throughout the exhibit with innovative programming that responds to and interacts with the space. Free. Noon–5 p.m. Wed, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sat. Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts, 3716 Washington, 314-754-1850, pulitzerarts.org.
May 22–June 14 | Shakespeare Festival St. Louis, Antony and Cleopatra
Forget the icy D.C. power struggles of the Underwoods on House of Cards. Shakespeare did it best centuries ago with Antony and Cleopatra. In this, its 15th season, Shakespeare Festival St. Louis will stage the ambitious story of two of the most dominating historical figures of all time. “I like to say the play lives on the corner of politics and desire—that’s a fascinating neighborhood,” says Bruce Longworth, interim artistic director for the festival. The tale follows the ruler of the Roman Empire and the queen of Egypt through their stormy love affair. “As their destinies went, so went the destinies of the Roman Empire and Egypt,” says Longworth. “We really are talking about people of tremendous power.” Free. 8 p.m. nightly except Tuesdays. Shakespeare Glen, Forest Park. 314-531-9800, sfstl.com.
Opening May 29 | Carrie Becker, “Lilliputian Entropy”
Three years ago, artist Carrie Becker darn near broke the Internet with her “Barbie Trashes Her Dreamhouse,” an incredibly clickable series of photos of deplorable conditions in Barbie’s once-swank digs. Now she’s taken the concept in a new direction, exhibiting photographs of dioramas inspired by abandoned homes on the Kansas prairie. “To me, it was like the scrapbook of the last generation who lived on the prairie,” Becker says. She photographed actual scenes as research and took the inspiration home, where she built versions of the scenes in miniature—think toothpicks as ceiling beams, with millimeter adjustments. The images, both in the “Barbie” series and “Lilliputian Entropy,” revel in the beauty of chaos and decay, but Becker’s role is all about control. Free. Noon–5 p.m. Mon–Fri. William Shearburn Gallery, 665 S. Skinker, 314-367-8020, shearburngallery.com.
May 4 | Wilco
Consider yourself among the lucky ones if you snagged a ticket to Wilco. The band’s hometown-ish roots make every local show a hot property. Steve Gunn gets the evening started. $35–$45 (sold out). 8 p.m. May 4. The Pageant, 6161 Delmar, 314-762-6161, thepageant.com.
May 8–10 | Saint Louis Ballet: Don Quixote
There’s a reason that this lavish ballet interpretation of Miguel de Cervantes’ novel, first presented by the Imperial Bolshoi Theatre of Moscow in 1869, has become a classic. Catch the Saint Louis Ballet’s first staging. $28–$49. 7:30 p.m. Fri, 2:30 & 7:30 p.m. Sat, 2:30 p.m. Sun. Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center, One University Boulevard, 314-516-4949, touhill.org.
May 11 | Bob Dylan and His Band
He’s been an angry young folksinger, an electrified devil-may-care poet, and the melancholy guy who penned “Not Dark Yet.” Dylan is still a legend, and still a vibrant artist at the age of 73. Fox Theatre, 527 N. Grand, 314-534-1111, $49.50–$129.50, 8 p.m., fabulousfox.com.
May 14 | San Fermin and Natalie Prass
Cherokee Street’s lovely Luminary brings together the baroque pop of Brooklyn’s San Fermin with Nashville’s Natalie Prass in support of Prass’ self-titled debut. $12; $14 day of show. 9 p.m. The Luminary, 2701 Cherokee, 314-807-5984, theluminaryarts.com.
May 28 | Alabama Shakes
If you didn’t catch ’em at LouFest a few years ago (and kicked yourself), now’s your chance—plus they’re double-heading with buzzy singer-songwriter Father John Misty. $25–$75, 8 p.m. Fox Theatre, 527 N. Grand, 314-534-1111, fabulousfox.com.
May 29–June 28 | Stages St. Louis: Smokey Joe’s Café
Visit the old neighborhood and indulge in some song-and-dance nostalgia for the early days of rock and roll. The Grammy-nominated Smokey Joe’s Café boasts almost 40 songs that you’ll know all the words to. $41–$57. Call for times. Robert G. Reim Theatre, Kirkwood Civic Center, 111 S. Geyer, 314-821-2407, stagesstlouis.org.
May 30 | The Decemberists
The band is back after a four-year hiatus during which its members pursued their own interests, including Colin Meloy’s foray into writing children’s books. The record is What a Terrible World, What a Beautiful World. $31-$76. 8 p.m. Peabody Opera House, 1400 Market, 314-499-7600, peabodyoperahouse.com.
Art Stuff I’m Doing This Summer: Marilu Knode, Director, Laumeier Sculpture Park
Marilu Knode has a busy May in the works, between the park’s annual Art Fair running May 8–10, and the opening of the Adam Aronson Fine Arts Center this summer. But she’s planning to take in “Mapping St. Louis History: An Exhibition of Historic Maps, Books and Images Commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the Founding of St. Louis” at the St. Louis Mercantile Library at the University of Missouri–St. Louis, open through June. The exhibition boasts everything from centuries-old maps to satellite images. “It’s an exhibition based on a really deep and rich collection that the Mercantile has of the maps of the shifting urban environment of St. Louis,” Knode says. The past five years of programming at Laumeier, she says, have taken place under the rubric of archaeology of place, so the Mercantile exhibit is a welcome piece of scholarship. “What interests me about the Mercantile is that they are a really important repository of the material culture that tells us where we’ve been,” says Knode.
JUNE
May 23–June 28 | Opera Theater of St. Louis’ 2015 Season
Sure, the house band happens to be made up of members of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, and, OK, maybe the lead was just on the cover of Opera Magazine. But the one thing people really love about the Opera Theater of St. Louis is the summer party season it ushers in. “The thing that people love about Opera Theater is the sort of total experience,” says general director Tim O’Leary. “You come to the opera in this beautiful intimate venue, but there’s always this picnic scene beforehand.” Some people go all out, creating picnic menus hewing to the opera’s themes. It’s a big year for the company. “It’s our 40th season. We’re reaching adulthood here,” O’Leary says. To celebrate, there’ll be an inaugural Center Stage concert, featuring young performers, on June 23. Saturday matinees have been added, too. This summer’s repertory consists of Rossini’s The Barber of Seville, a classic comic opera; La Rondine, a Puccini love story; Handel’s Richard the Lionheart, coming to an American stage for the first time ever; and Tobias Picker’s 1996 Emmeline, adding a contemporary note. Call for prices and times. May 23–June 28, with the four shows in rotation. Loretto-Hilton Center, 130 Edgar, 314-961-0644, opera-stl.org.
June 10–13 | Terence Blanchard at Jazz at the Bistro
Four nights. Two shows. Terence Blanchard returns to St. Louis for a stand at Jazz at the Bistro. New Orleans–born Blanchard has scored numerous films and won five Grammys. He’s a global sensation, all right, with a notable link to St. Louis: In 2013, Opera Theatre of St. Louis and Jazz St. Louis co-commissioned him to write Champion, telling the tragic story of boxer Emile Griffith. In 2013, Blanchard explained to SLM that he considered it not an opera proper but instead an “opera in jazz.” “My whole concept has been to take the language of jazz and to use that as a springboard for how we’re going to tell this story with an orchestra and with operatic singers,” he explained. “The rhythms of the music, the harmonic progressions, the melodic development I grew up playing, that’s the grammar that I use musically to tell the story.” It was the top-selling premiere in the company’s history and a finalist in the “world premiere” category at the 2014 International Opera Awards. On this trip, Blanchard’s trumpet lights up Jazz at the Bistro’s new state-of-the-art listening room. Don’t sleep on this one. $35-$40. 7:30 & 9:30 p.m. Jazz at the Bistro, Harold and Dorothy Steward Center for Jazz, 3536 Washington, 314-571-6000, jazzstl.org.
June 15–August 16 | The Muny’s 2015 Season
The country’s oldest and biggest outdoor theater opens its 97th season—and, unofficially, the St. Louis summer season—with My Fair Lady. Hairspray, Holiday Inn, Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, Into the Woods, Beauty and the Beast, and Oklahoma! will be this year’s sounds of summer. The company aims to appeal to as many people as it can, with old favorites and new shows for new patrons in the mix. And this year? “We nailed it,” says Kwofe Coleman, the Muny’s communications director. “Our crowd is based on tradition,” he says, but “it’s important to reach a new audience, a young audience.” Last year, Coleman says, during the production of Grease, the theater polled patrons and based this year’s calendar on their responses. “What we put on our stage is a direct result of what folks want to see,” he says. “We’re the municipal theater. It’s in our name—we’re of this community.” Free–$87. 8:15 p.m.; call for dates. The Muny, One Theatre Drive, Forest Park, 314-361-1900, muny.org.
May 28–June 28 | Circus Flora
As St. Louis institutions go, you’d have a hard time finding one better loved that Circus Flora. The city favorite routinely dazzles with performers from around the globe, jaw-dropping musical collaborations, and an animal family that’s a popular part of the show. $10–$35. Call for times. Grand Center, North Grand at Samuel Shepherd, 314-289-4040, circusflora.org.
June 28–September 27 | Senufo: Art and Identity in West Africa
Recent scholarship has expanded the body of African art considered products of Senufo, a West African society whose art inspired Pablo Picasso and Fernand Léger. This exhibition pulls from 160 museums and private collections. Catch it before its next showing, at the Musée Fabre in Montpelier, France. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Tue–Thu, Sat & Sun; 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Fri. Saint Louis Art Museum, One Fine Arts, 314-721-0072, slam.org.
June 18–21, June 25–27 | St. Lou Fringe
It seems like just yesterday that the St. Lou Fringe was merely a twinkle in Em Piro’s eye, but the unjuried and unfussy festival is already entering its fourth year. (They grow up so fast!) You never know what you’ll see, which is sort of the glorious point.Various prices and times at various venues throughout Midtown; stlfringe.com.
June 10–13 | Twangfest
Twangfest, KDHX’s love note to Americana, folk, roots, and country, turns 19 this year. It’s earned its spot in the pantheon of can’t-miss Midwestern festivals and is now the subject of a pre-festival show hyping the event at Austin’s SXSW. Various prices, times & venues; twangfest.com.
June 19 | Classical Mystery Tour: A Tribute to the Beatles
It seems unlikely that the mop-tops from Liverpool ever imagined, when they were starting out, that world-class symphony orchestras, including the St. Louis Symphony, would be interpreting their work for years to come. This show features more than 30 Beatles classics. $35-$70. 7:30 p.m. Powell Hall, 718 N. Grand, 314-534-1700, stlsymphony.org.
Art Stuff I’m Doing This Summer: Mike Isaacson, Artistic Director and Producer, The Muny
Don’t ask Isaacson what summer blockbusters he’s planning to take in. “I don’t even know what movies are out,” he says. Come June, he’s…busy. The Muny gets kicking right as Memorial Day descends, and that’s about it for the summer for the Broadway-seasoned vet, who sat down in the big chair at the country’s oldest outdoor theater in 2012. It’s fitting, perhaps, that it’s another St. Louis outdoor treasure he manages to catch, one that he doesn’t have to commute very far to enjoy—in fact, he can stay in Forest Park. “My time just becomes ridiculously constrained, but I always find time to go out to the Shakespeare Festival. It allows local actors who are really talented to strut their stuff. For me, if it’s June, it’s Shakespeare Fest and The Muny.”
JULY
July 10 | 10th Annual Let Them Eat Art
As we look at photographs from the last 10 (can it be 10?) years of Maplewood’s fête plus français, this much is clear: Many St. Louisans have funky Marie Antoinette beehive wigs squirreled away in their closets. The city describes Let Them Eat Art as a cross “between Mardi Gras and a Christmas tree walk,” meaning that it’s colorful and celebratory but also offers the chance to take a self-guided tour of the city’s vibrant, funky downtown. On the other hand, it’s hard to compare it to anything else, including other Bastille Day celebrations—in past years, it’s offered up buskers, burlesque, dream interpreters, and tarot card readers (Mystic Valley is in Maplewood, after all), dancers from the St. Louis Hoop Club, tumblers and aerialists from Everyday Circus, lots of tasty food, live demos by more than 35 artists, live music—and those crazy wigs, of course. Free. 6–11 p.m. Downtown Maplewood, 314-645-3600, cityofmaplewood.com/ltea.
July 10–August 2 | LaBute New Theater Festival
Now in its third year, this festival—produced by the St. Louis Actors’ Studio—isn’t just a place to see LaBute’s classic plays (In the Company of Men, anyone?). “I love the idea of this festival (not because of my name on it but because I love this form of short drama), so it ends up being a great way for me to try out new material and to see new material,” LaBute told SLM last year, adding that he sees himself as a part of the fest for the foreseeable future. The famed playwright’s actively connected and involved; last year, he debuted a new work, Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush. In addition to new works from LaBute, the festival stages juried work from seven professional playwrights—submissions must be written to the Gaslight Theatre’s specific dimensions—and holds a reading of plays from three high school students. Both the professional and student winners come from all over the country, but last year’s festival included work from a budding adolescent playwright from St. Louis. Call for prices. 8 p.m. Thu–Sat, 3 p.m. Sun. Gaslight Theatre, 358 N. Boyle, 314-458-2978, stlas.org.
July 12 | Bastille Day at the Chatillon-Demenil House
Soulard’s was boozy. Carondolet’s had not one but three mock beheadings. Bastille Day at the Chatillon-DeMenil House can’t help but be a bit more civilized—it’s on the mansion grounds, after all—and where better to celebrate this holiday than chez Emilie Sophie Chouteau, member of one of St. Louis’ first French families? They do it up authentic here, so you’ll see lots of lace fans, court dresses, knee breeches, and tricorn hats. Of course Marie Antoinette is in attendance—she’s been played in past years by volunteer Cindy Ahrens—with further authentic flavor provided by living history groups such as the Milice de Sainte Famille, Ste. Anne’s Parish Milice, the French Marines from Fort de Chartres, and Dance Discovery. If prior celebrations are any guide, expect 18th-century drills on the lawn (followed by a ceremonial musket salute), a storming of the DeMenil House, a group singing of “La Marseillaise,” and, of course, the opportunity to take a selfie next to the faux guillotine. Call for prices. Noon. Chatillon-DeMenil House, 3352 DeMenil, 314-771-5828, demenil.org.
July 2–4 | Fair St. Louis
With work continuing on the Arch grounds, Fair St. Louis returns to Forest Park for another year. We doubt that anyone will complain—the party drew 250,000 last year, and the verdict was that it rocked. The air show’s been jettisoned, but that time and energy will go into beefing up the music and entertainment—which is what’s most pleasurable in a park setting anyway. Free. Forest Park, 314-434-3434, fairsaintlouis.org.
July 17–August 16 | Stages St. Louis, Anything Goes
It’s hard to go wrong with a zany P.G. Wodehouse story set to Cole Porter’s catchy tunes. In fact, this is the musical that gave us a jillion cabaret classics, including the title song and “I Get a Kick Out of You.” It’s lighthearted—but not brain-dead. In other words, perfect light summer entertainment. $20–$57. Call for times. Stages St. Louis, Robert G. Reim Theatre, Kirkwood Civic Center, 111 S. Geyer, 314-821-2407, stagesstlouis.org.
July 19–23 | St. Louis Filmmakers’ Showcase
The lineup won’t be announced for a couple more months, but that’s beside the point—this several-day mini–film fest is more about submerging yourself in St. Louis’ film scene than in chasing down the week’s It film. Make sure not to short the shorts—sometimes that’s where the highlights of the showcase lurk. $12. Call for times & locations. Cinema St. Louis, 314-289-4150, cinemastlouis.org/st-louis-filmmakers-showcase.
Through July 26 | Ferguson and Beyond
Closing just shy of a year after the shooting of Michael Brown, this show is the first photographic survey of the events in Ferguson. If you’ll remember, a lot of photography—a lot of powerful, iconic photography—came out of those tense, turbulent, and (we hope) world-changing months. $5; students & seniors $3. International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum, 3415 Olive, 314-535-1999, iphf.org.
July 27 | Vans Warped Tour
There are so many bands on the bill, we can’t list ’em all, but we’ll give you a random sample in alpha order: Bebe Rexha, Candy Hearts, Hands Like Houses, I Killed the Prom Queen, Jule Vera, Le Castle Vania, Palisades, Seaway, the Dirty Nil, the Wonder Years, and Youth in Revolt. $47.50 & $57.50. Doors open 11 a.m. Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre, 14141 Riverport, vanswarpedtour.com.
Art Stuff I’m Doing This Summer: Novelist Curtis Sittenfeld
Sittenfeld’s the author of American Wife, The Man of My Dreams, Prep, and, most recently, Sisterland, a tale of twins set in St. Louis that the New York Times described as artful, intriguing, and affecting by turns. Even if you don’t read novels, you may know Sittenfeld’s work from another New York Times piece, “Loving the Midwest,” an op/ed published in 2013 that you no doubt spied on your Facebook feed at one point because people loved it as much as they misunderstood it. “I recently participated in a panel for which the moderator was Lisa Melandri, director of the Contemporary Art Museum,” Sittenfeld says. “In addition to finding Lisa incredibly smart, frank, and funny, this experience made me realize that in seven years of living in St. Louis I’ve never once visited CAM. And even though having young children is my usual excuse for everything cool that I fail to do, in this case that doesn’t apply, because apparently CAM has a stroller tour that kids are welcome to attend. A visit there is now at the top of my cultural to-do list.”
AUGUST
August 8 & 9 | Jour de Fête
As the name makes obvious, this is a celebration of Ste. Genevieve’s French roots, but it kicks off with a decidedly modern: the marathon. It’s packed with other events after that, including tours of the city’s historic French colonial houses and a display of classic cars. The city’s antiques shops and art studios open their doors to the public, and there’ll be an open-air market on, appropriately enough, Market Street. And, as always, the fair hosts a huge array of artisians, including woodcarvers, basketmakers, potters, quilters, stained-glass artists, and furniture-makers, plus painters, sculptors, and even a purveyor of doll clothes. On the food and drink front, it’s a fair-food extravaganza: kettle corn, brats, turkey legs, Ted Drewes custard, pork steaks, and lemonade, plus a beer garden and, for the more discerning festival-goer, a chance to sip some Ste. Gen–made wines. Free. 10 a.m.–6 p.m Sat, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Sun. Downtown Ste. Genevieve, saintegenevievejourdefete.com.
Through August 23 | Lantern Festival: Magic Reimagined at the Missouri Botanical Garden
Now that St. Louis understands the oooh-ahhh power of traditional Chinese lanterns—before their debut at the Missouri Botanical Garden in 2012, some of us might’ve even been imagining those spherical paper things at Pier One—you know we’re all going to want to set time aside to stroll around the garden grounds one more time before this show is packed up forever. Created in Zigong, China, these 22 new lanterns (made of silk, steel, wire, and porcelain) were specially commissioned by MoBot. In a nod to the institution’s ecological mission, many have recycled components: The skin of “Giant Dandelion and Panda,” for instance, is made of recycled water bottles. For those who’d like to take home a memento to tide you over till the next lantern festival, MoBot will be selling off the pieces once the display closes. $22; $13 members, $10 kids, $3 members’ kids. 6–10 p.m. nightly. 4344 Shaw, 314- 577-5100, missouribotanicalgarden.org.
August 29 & 30 | Festival of Nations
Even though the International Institute was in transition last year, getting ready to move into its new home at the former St. Elizabeth’s Academy, it still managed to throw one of the biggest festivals of the year in Tower Grove Park. The 2014 Festival of Nations drew 65,000 visitors from 105 ZIP codes. Now that the staff of the institute are all settled into their new digs, they can really pull out the stops. This year, the World Music Stage—where some of the festival’s most accomplished performers appear—will be relocated to a more central location with expanded, shadier seating. The festival is also partnering with St. Louis Immersion Schools on a kids’ craft area where children can make Chinese lanterns, origami, or African paper plate necklaces. And the elements that keep people coming back every year will remain intact: dancers from Africa, Greece, and Brazil; Irish and Native American storytelling; bands such as Clave Sol and Samba Bom; belly dance lessons on the Village Green; and aieee!—that food court! Don’t forget the Institute’s cookbook, which features recipes from the food booths and will be for sale. Last year the festival also had an impromptu visit by a group of traveling Tibetan monks. We can’t wait to see what surprises are in store for this year. Free. 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Sat, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Sun. Tower Grove Park, 314-773-9090, festivalofnationsstl.org.
August 6–22 | Stray Dog Theatre, Spellbound! A Musical Fable
This world premiere (with music, lyrics, and book all penned by Stray Dog’s own Gary Bell), follows its young protagonist, Arabella, through the fairytale land of Samaren, where she dodges a witchy foe, chats with clouds and animals, imbibes magical potions, and, of course, learns an awful lot along the way. $25; $20 students & seniors. Call for times. Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee, 314-865-1995, straydogtheatre.org.
August 19 | Foo Fighters
By the time Dave Grohl and the rest of the crew hit St. Louis, they’ll have been touring on their newest record, Sonic Highways, for nearly a year. In a review of the new record, Rolling Stone proclaimed the FFs “possibly today’s most vital living, breathing rock & roll band.” Call for prices. 7 p.m. Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre, 14141 Riverport, livenation.com.
August 21 | Kevin Hart’s What Now? Tour
What now? Well, seriously funny guy Kevin Hart is making a stop in St. Louis on his latest tour. Hart currently stars on the satirical BET show Real Husbands of Hollywood, moonlights on Saturday Night Live, and keeps up an incredibly ambitious stand-up schedule, too. $46.50–$122. 7 p.m. Scottrade Center, 1401 Clark, 314-622-5400, scottrade.com.
August 28–October 25 | Speaking With Threads
Spearheaded by Craft Alliance Center for Art + Design, this biennial textiles exhibit is billed as an “event” rather than an exhibition—and so it is, with more than 20 different arts nonprofits collaborating to display cutting-edge fiber arts all around the city, including a show at Craft Alliance. Free. Various venues & times. Craft Alliance Center for Art + Design, 501 N. Grand, 534-7528, craftalliance.org.
August 21–23 | Festival of the Little Hills
More than 300 artisans, artists, and crafters set up booths in historic downtown St. Charles every year. Even if you’re not into arts and crafts, check out the food and the live music—last year’s slate included jazz and folk, plus swing band Miss Jubilee & the Humdingers. Free. 4–10 p.m. Fri, 9:30 a.m.–10 p.m. Sat, 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Sun. Main Street and Frontier Park. 636-940-0095, festivalofthelittlehills.com.
Art Stuff I’m Doing This Summer: David Halen, Concertmaster, St. Louis Symphony
“There are so many performances I’m looking forward to, it’s hard to choose just a few!” the busy Halen wrote to us by email. (And “busy” is an understatement here: At press time, the SLSO was at the apex of its 2104-15 season, had just picked up its seventh Grammy, and had named Marie-Hélène Bernard, former CEO of Boston’s Handel and Haydn Society, as its new president.) “For years, the St. Louis Symphony has been proud to partner with Opera Theatre of St. Louis, serving as its orchestra. I’m really looking forward to the summer season at the Loretto-Hilton Center, specifically Puccini’s La Rondine,” he continued. “The Innsbrook Institute, which hosts a summer music academy for promising student musicians and a summer music festival, will bring in guest artists Chee-Yun and 18-year-old violin phenomenon Simone Porter for special performances. Speaking of young talent, the Teen Talent Competition at the Fox Theatre is a great way to check out some exceptional local artists in a wide range of genres. And of course I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the St. Louis Symphony will be closing out its classical subscription season this year (our 135th!) with a first: We’ll be performing Verdi’s Aida here at Powell Hall.”
Mark Your Calendar: More Things to Do and See
Alexandra Ballet, 68E Four Seasons Shopping Center, 314-469-6222, alexandraballet.com. April 11–13, Spring Repertory Program: Productions of “La Bayadère” (The Palace Garden) and “Origami” round out this program. April 16–18, Regional Dance America–National Festival 2015: Dances selected at Regional Dance America’s Mid-States Division competition will be performed.
Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center, One University Blvd., 866-516-4949, touhill.org. April 11, Hal Holbrook in Mark Twain Tonight! Holbrook reprises his classic role as the legendary humorist and storyteller. April 19, Matsutoyo Kai: Japanese folk music. April 21, University Piano Alumni Concert: Alumni perform. April 22, In the Mood: A fantastic tribute to Glenn Miller, the Andrew Sisters, Tommy Dorsey, and other big-band legends of the 1940s. April 23–25, The Second City: Famed Chicago-based comedy group. April 24 & April 25, Compagnie Käfig: Hip-hop with a global view. May 5, University Chorus Concert: UMSL’s University Chorus performs traditional and contemporary choral music. May 8–10, Saint Louis Ballet: Don Quixote: The Saint Louis Ballet presents the journey of Don Quixote for the first time ever. May 8, Arianna String Quartet: Bold New World: The season finale for the quartet. May 22–24, Spring to Dance Festival 2015: The annual festival, now in its eighth year, returns to St. Louis for a must-see performance.
Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, 3750 Washington, 314-535-4660, camstl.org. April 1, Stroller Tour: Break out the wheels and bring your babies in for a guided tour of the museum. April 1, Morning Play Date: Storytelling, musical performances, and more unique activities await your child at the Contemporary Art Museum today. April 3, First Fridays: Every first Friday of the month, experience art, music, and culture at CAM. April 11, Symposium: Natural Disasters, Free Speech, and the Death of Painting: Washington University and CAM collaborate to present a collection of research on topics of Midwestern experience and self-taught American aesthetics with the exhibits Joe Goode and Jesse Howard: Thy Kingdom Come as a jumping-off point. April 18, Contemporary Art 101: New Trends in Abstract Painting: Current trends in contemporary art and art history are examined. April 23, Spring Art Auction: A silent auction featuring the works of established and emerging contemporary artists from all over the world. May 16, Dada Ball & Bash: This night of quirkiness is inspired by the works of original 20th-century Dadaists. July 27, Stop-Motion Madness: Children ages 9–13 are invited to learn how to create stop-motion animation films through the use of collage, claymation, and live-action animation. July 27, Punk Printmaking: Children ages 9–13 will learn traditional and nontraditional methods of printmaking as they create custom artwork. August 3, Crushed: Found Object Letterpress Workshop: CAM and Central Print team up to offer an innovative approach to old art-making techniques.
Craft Alliance, 6640 Delmar, 314-725-1177, craftalliance.org. Through May 10, SMALL BUILDINGS: built, unbuilt, unbuildable: A look at architecture of the past, present, and future. April 8, From the Hand to the Plan: An Architect’s Dialogue: A discussion of current issues in architectural designs, presented by the Creative Exchange Lab. April 18, Makers Ball: An evening celebration of makers and craftsmen at the Palladium. May 16 & 17, Hot! Mixed Media Fiber Techniques with Susan Lenz: Participants in this workshop will explore and experiment with heat-activated art. May 22–July 5, Artists-in-Residence Exhibition: A presentation of art created by 2013–2014 fiber, clay, and metals artists during their residencies. July 17–August 16, Biennial Faculty Exhibition: Members of the Craft Alliance Center of Art + Design’s faculty display their works. August 28–October 25, Speaking with Threads: Exhibit features the works of artists Mary Bero, Sonya Clark, Kathy Halper, Cindy Hickok, Mark Newport, Tilleke Schwaz, Carol Shinn, and Benji Whalen.
Edison Theatre, 6445 Forsyth, 314-935-6543, edison.wustl.edu. April 4, Release! Washington University Dance Company The Slaughter Project presents this ensemble of student dancers. April 10 & 11, Giordano Dance: The mesmerizing Giordano Dance Chicago performs original jazz choreography. April 16–19, Telegraph: Mr. Rivers, a telegraph operator, looks for love in this award-winning play. April 22–May 3, Once on This Island: A Caribbean fairy tale about the power of love, presented by the Black Rep, that is reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet and The Little Mermaid.
Family Arena, 2002 Arena Pkwy., 636-896-4200, familyarena.com. April 25, Matthew West with Colton Dixon and Mr. Talkbox: Grammy-nominated Christian artist brings his Live Forever Tour to St. Louis. May 3, Chuggington Live! The Great Rescue Adventure: A live-action musical adaptation based on the hit children’s TV show. May 29, Buddy Valastro: TLC’s “Cake Boss” demonstrates how to make incredible sweet treats.
Fox Theatre, 527 N. Grand, 314-534-1678, fabulousfox.com. March 24–April 5, Kinky Boots: These boots were made for walkin’, and that’s just what they’ll do. Enjoy a fabulous night of entertainment with this six-time Tony Award–winning musical that reminds us that “the best way to fit in is to stand out!” April 10–12, Stomp: A pulse-pounding and unconventional show that’s sure to please audiences of all ages. April 15, Bryan Adams: Rock legend Adams is celebrating the 30th anniversary of “Reckless,” the classic album from which such hits as “Summer of ’69,” “Kids Wanna Rock,” and “Run to You” sprang. April 18, Mythbusters: Jamie and Adam Unleashed: A magical evening of mind-blowing experiments, audience participation, and exclusive behind-the-scenes stories from TV’s Mythbusters. April 30, Lecrae: The Grammy Award–winning hip-hop artist brings his unique style of Christian music to St. Louis. May 15–17, The Rat Pack Is Back! Tribute to the Rat Pack promises to transport you back to the gang’s heyday.
International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum, 3415 Olive, 314-535-1999, iphf.org. Through April 26, St. Louis Architecture: A Proud Heritage: A celebration of architecture, past, present, and future, in the St. Louis area. May 8–July 26, Ferguson and Beyond: First major photography exhibit focusing on the tragic events that took place in Ferguson last year. August 7–October 25, Shutter Clique: This exhibit, a nod to the International Salons of Photography that St. Louis hosted in the middle of the last century, showcases images from world-renowned photographers.
Jazz St. Louis, 3536 Washington, 314-571-6000, jazzstl.org. April 1–4, Freddy Cole Quintet with special guest Harry Allen: One of the most influential of jazz singers, Freddy Cole (brother of Nat “King” Cole), brings his swingin’ sound to St. Louis. April 10 & 11, Bosman Twins CD-Release Party: The Emmy Award–winning duo celebrates the release of When Lions Roar with two spectacular nights of straight-ahead jazz. April 15–18, Kurt Elling: With a vocal range spanning four octaves, Grammy Award–winning “standout vocalist of our time” Kurt Elling is sure to be astonishing. April 21, SIUE Concert Jazz Band and SIUE Alumni Jazz Band: Big-band showcase from the swingin’ musicians of Edwardsville. April 24 & 25, Tommy Halloran’s Guerrilla Swing: Paying homage to jazz greats, the 2014 “Best Band in St. Louis” aims to please. April 29–May 2, Benny Green Trio: Hard-swinging modern jazz pianist. May 8 & 9, Miss Jubilee & the Humdingers: Re-creating the sounds of the 1920s through the 1950s, this high-energy band will put pep in your step. May 13–16, Regina Carter’s Southern Comfort: Folk, jazz, and blues music that tells Carter’s family history. May 22 & 23, Mardra & Reggie Thomas CD Release: Release party for new album Matters of the Heart. May 27–30, Dr. Lonnie Smith Trio with special guest Lionel Loueke: Unconventional coupling of West African and African-American music forms. June 5 & 6, JazzU & the JSL All-Stars: Talented middle school and high school musicians perform. June 10–13, Terence Blanchard: Modern jazz trumpeter brings his expressive style to St. Louis.
Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 N. Grand, 314-533-0367, kranzbergartscenter.org. April 10, Ellen the Felon Live & Unplugged: Described as “Andrew Lloyd Webber meets the Dresden Dolls meets Frank Zappa,” this show mixes jazz piano and cabaret to yield a new and edgy experience.
Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw, 314-577-5100, missouribotanicalgarden.org. April 11, Daffodil Dash: Second annual 5K run at Shaw Nature Reserve. April 26, Tulip Trot: The Young Friends present a 5K fun run through the Missouri Botanical Garden, which is usually closed to runners). Throughout May, Chinese Culture Days: This celebration of Chinese culture lasts all summer long. May 15, Be a Kid Again: Adults-only cocktail party in the Doris I. Schnuck Children’s Garden. May 22, Night of Magic: Lantern Festival Premiere Gala: An unforgettable night of food, magic, and amazing entertainment. At sunset, 22 lantern installations will light up the night sky. May 26, Lantern Festival: Magic Reimagined Members Night: A night of delicious Chinese cuisine, entertainment, and shopping at the Missouri Botanical Garden. June 20, Green Homes Festival: A celebration of healthy living that also educates participants in how to go green. June–August, Whitaker Music Festival: A 10-week outdoor concert series, hosted by the garden every Wednesday evening. June–August, Desert Show: An exhibit that depicts the importance of desert plants to our lives.
Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell, 314-746-4599, mohistory.org. April 11–September 7, State of Deception: The Power of Nazi Propaganda: Traveling exhibit created by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum shows how the Nazis used propaganda in World War II. May 30–December 5, A Walk in 1875 St. Louis: Maps and interactive media depicting St. Louis in 1875 will be on display to give participants a taste of what life was like back then. June 27, History Clubhouse: This interactive family-friendly gallery shows the importance of history.
Off Broadway, 3509 Lemp, offbroadwaystl.com. April 4, Twangfest Presents: 20th-Anniversary Tribute to Wilco’s A.M. and Son Volt’s Trace: the Brothers Lazaroff, the Cree Rider Family Band, the Langaleers, the Old Capital Square Dance Club, Shooting with Annie, the Vondrukes, and the Trophy Mules perform. April 8, The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band: New-age country blues band with an unconventional sound and a refreshing spirit. April 12, JEFF the Brotherhood: A celebration of new album “Wasted on the Dream.” Bully opens. April 15, Cody Canada & the Departed: The 0’s open. April 16, Chuck Prophet and the Mission Express: Songwriter/guitarist/vocalist brings his unconventional style to St. Louis. April 19, The Bright Light Social Hour with Talk in Tongues: Psychedelic Southern rockers and four L.A. musicians team up for a night of musical bliss. April 24–26, Pokey Lafarge Album-Release Celebration: Margo & the Pricetags, the Loot Rock Gang, and Pokey Lafarge perform at this musical extravaganza. April 30, Julian Lage & Chris Eldridge: Acoustic guitar duo takes the stage. May 1, James McMurtry: Pagan Productions honors the release of this celebrated tunesmith’s first record in six years, “Complicated Game.” May 6, Drag the River: Alternative-country experience features Daren Gratton, Bobby Stevens, and Dan Johanning. May 7, Ray Wylie Hubbard: Country artist from Texas performs his hits. May 9, Tom Russell: The master storyteller celebrates the release of “Mesabi.” May 21, Tim Barry: Barry and Two Cow Garage ignite the stage.
Old Rock House, 1200 S. Seventh, 314-588-0505, oldrockhouse.com. April 4, Nora Jane Struthers & the Party Line: Struthers blends Americana, country, and folk in a unique way. April 6, Delta Spirit: These San Diego natives celebrate the release of their fourth studio album, “Into the Wide.” April 8, River City Extension with Cold Fronts: The folk-rockers are coming to St. Louis on their Deliverance Tour. April 10, Drew Holcomb & the Neighbors: Get a little dose of “Medicine.” Humming House opens. April 11, An Evening with the James Hunter Six: The modern rhythm-and-bluesmen are performing hits from their newest album, “Minute by Minute.” April 12, David Lindley: Eclectic music is performed in this installment of the Listening Room Series. April 15, Nicki Bluhm & the Gamblers: Bluhm’s dynamic vocals are not to be missed in this show in support of new album “Loved Wild Lost.” April 25, The Werks: This powerhouse ensemble is sure to incite a mind-blowing dance party. April 29, Elvis Perkins: Performance of Perkins latest album “I Aubade” as part of the Listening Room Series. May 8, Tony Lucca: You may have seen this musician on the hit TV show “Parenthood” or on tour with Maroon 5 and Kelly Clarkson, but now you can see him in your own neck of the woods as he tours his new self-titled album. June 12, The Growlers: These guys mix ’80s postpunk and heavy surfer music to create a musical blend that is like nothing else.
Peabody Opera House, 1400 Market, 314-499-7600, peabodyoperahouse.com. April 2, The Sing-Off Live Tour: Winning groups from The Sing-Off perform Top 40 hits—live and a cappella. April 17–19, I Love Lucy Live on Stage: A high-spirited theatrical adaptation of the popular 1960s TV show. April 20, Sufjan Stevens: Singer-songwriter tours on his latest record, Carrie & Lowell. Cold Specks open. April 21, David Sedaris: The always-entertaining author has been compared to Mark Twain. May 9, Lewis Black: Acerbic funnyman broke big as a commenter on The Daily Show. May 10, Nick Offerman & Megan Mullally, Summer of 69: No Apostrophe: This married couple’s stage show is like pillow talk onstage—leave the kids at home! May 13, An Evening with Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson: The only guy in the universe cool enough to become the second host of Cosmos—and make hard science entertaining for all of us. May 15, Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus LIVE! Not a lecture by John Gray; instead, a stage adaptation of his popular book about misunderstandings between men and women. May 29, John Mellencamp: He was singing about the joys and sorrows of the heartland long before the term “Rust Belt Chic” was coined. May 3, The Decemberists: Pacific Northwest band’s latest is What a Terrible World, What a Beautiful World. June 28, Weird Al Yankovic: The Mandatory World Tour: No one’s made a career of the parody hit like Yankovic, who’s outlasted many of the Top 40 stars he’s lampooned.
The Pageant, 6161 Delmar, 314-726-6161, thepageant.com. April 3, Clean Bandit: The Grammy Award–winning British electronic group performs, and trust me, there is nowhere you’d “Rather Be.” April 4, OK GO: Everyone’s favorite treadmill dancers perform with White Arrows. April 9, Dr. Dog: The “Shadow People” crooners bring their Flamingo Hotel Tour to St. Louis. April 10, Here Come the Mummies: Ghouls and goblins beware; these mummies are here to bring the funk. April 11, Thunderhead: The Rush Experience: Tribute band paying homage to Rush. April 12, Shawn Mendes: Canadian Vine star promises to be the “Life of the Party.” April 16, Ask Me Another: Live version of the popular NPR podcast. April 17, Yonder Mountain String Band: The progressive bluegrass group performs with Ben Sollee. April 18, Griz: The Say It Loud World Tour stops in St. Louis. April 19, Rickey Smiley: The funnyman brings his comedy tour to the Pageant. April 21, Dan + Shay: Country music twosome will perform hits such as “19 You + Me.” April 24, Sleater-Kinney: This late-’90s/early-2000s grrrl group wants to be your Joey Ramone. April 25, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead: The musician performs with Scott Metzger, Dave Dreiwitz, Tom Hamilton, and Marco Benevento. April 26, An Evening with Kevin Smith: An evening with the writer/director of Clerks and Mallrats? It’s a movie buff’s dream. April 30, The Kooks: They wanna make you happy. They wanna make you feel alive. Go see them and let them make you happy. May 2, JJ Grey & Mofro: The Southern rockers perform. May 4, Wilco: The alt-rock band fronted by Jeff Tweedy will tell you “How to Fight Loneliness.” May 6, Kaiser Chiefs: English indie rockers aren’t exactly “Coming Home,” but they are coming to St. Louis. May 8, Matt and Kim: American indie dance duo known for the 2009 hit “Daylight.” May 9, Oliver Dragojević: Croatian pop star performs at the Pageant. May 11, Interpol: The New York City–based rock band is “All the Rage Back Home.” May 12, Milky Chance: This German folk duo blends reggae and electronic music to create a sound you’ve never heard before. May 13, Death Cab for Cutie: The famed indie-rock group, responsible for such hits as “Soul Meets Body” and “I Will Follow You Into the Dark,” performs. May 14, All Time Low: Pop punk band brings its Future Hearts tour to St. Louis. May 16, They Might Be Giants: “Istanbul (Not Constantinople)” singers perform at the Pageant. May 20, Halestorm: This hard-rock band performs with The Pretty Reckless and Starset. May 27, St. Vincent: Anne Erin Clark is the one-woman band better known as St. Vincent. June 3, Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox: An alternative history of popular music. June 7, The Script: Irish pop-rock band responsible for the enthralling song “The Man Who Can’t Be Moved.”
Pop’s Night Club, 401 Monsanto, Sauget, 618-274-6720, popsrocks.com. April 6, Anybody Killa: With Axe Murder Boyz, Big Hoodoo, John Boi, POW, and Saw Blade. April 10, Testament: With Exodus and Shattered Sun. April 22, Rittz & Kxng Crooked: Horse Shoe Gang also performs. April 23, I Prevail: The punk band performs with Wounds. May 1, In Flames: The band’s Charming America Tour comes to Pop’s, accompanied by All That Remains. May 12, Psychostick: The comedy metal band performs. May 15, Tech N9ne: Aaron Yates (founder of Strange Music), who was born in Kansas City, performs as part of the Special Effects Tour. May 17, Of Mice & Men: Hardcore metal band performs on its Full Circle Tour with Crown the Empire and Volumes. May 31, Volbeat (outdoors): The Point presents this metal band outside Pop’s.
Powell Hall, 718 N. Grand, 314-533-2500, stlsymphony.org. April 10 & 11, Mozart Sinfonia concertante: Musicians Jonathan Chu and Beth Guterman Chu will dazzle. April 17 & 18, Rach 3: A sophisticated performance by Simon Trpčeski of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3. April 19, Forces of Nature: Pairing of music and images shows how nature has inspired the works of so many famous musicians. April 25–26, Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2: Emanuel Ax performs. May 1–3, Bolero: You’re sure to be enchanted by the seductive melodies and Spanish influence. May 7 & 9, Aida: The classic story debuts at Powell Hall. May 8, Fanfare for the Common Man: Enjoy a variety of music from America, Britain, Spain, France, and Hungary. May 15–16, Distant Worlds: Music from Final Fantasy: This thrilling program includes music from the Final Fantasy games, as well as a high-def video from game developers Square Enix. May 30, Youth Orchestra Concert No. 3: The talented young people of the St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra perform. May 31, Lost in Space: Star Wars and More: This intergalactic musical experience will take listeners on a journey through the original Star Wars score and the music of other space-based franchises. June 5, Chris Botti: Grammy Award–winning trumpeter performs with the symphony for one night only. June 6, Music of the Eagles: Conductor Brent Havens leads the symphony in taking on such Eagles classics as “Take It Easy” and “Hotel California.” June 14, Sounds of Simon & Garfunkel: Like a bridge over troubled water, this show will ease your mind. June 19, Classical Mystery Tour: A Tribute to the Beatles: This tribute to the Fab Four will make you want to “Twist and Shout.” June 21, My Sinatra: Tickets to this 100th-birthday celebration of Frank Sinatra, starring Cary Hoffman and the St. Louis Symphony, would make a wonderful Father’s Day treat for any dad who loves the Rat Packer. June 26, Music of U2: The symphony wants you to have a “Beautiful Day” if you come see this tribute, but don’t worry—there’ll be a performance “With or Without You.”
Saint Louis Art Museum, 1 Fine Arts, 314-721-0072, slam.org. Through September 20, Thomas Cole’s Voyage of Life: Exhibit features Cole’s famous series “The Voyage of Life.” February 22–May 17, Navigating the West: George Caleb Bingham and the River: Exhibit featuring landscapes and river paintings from “the Missouri artist.” April 17–July 19, Beyond Bosch: The Afterlife of a Renaissance Master in Print: Prints of Renaissance patrons and hellish monsters. June 28–September 27, Senufo: Art and Identity in West Africa: A stunning collection of masks, figures, and other art from the Senufo culture of sub-Saharan Africa.
Scottrade Center, 1401 Clark, 314-622-5400, scottradecenter.com. May 6, Kenny Chesney: The “She Thinks My Tractor’s Sexy” crooner is joined by fellow country artists Chase Rice and Jake Owen on The Big Revival Tour. May 7, The Who: They’re not trying to cause a big sensation; they’re just talkin’ bout their generation. Joan Jett & the Blackhearts also perform on the tour, which marks this iconic band’s 50 years. May 14, Rush: The Canadian rockers celebrate 40 years together with the R40 Live Tour. May 22, New Kids on the Block, TLC, and Nelly: “No Scrubs” allowed on this night of ’90s nostalgia. June 12, Imagine Dragons: The Grammy Award–winning rockers bring their signature sound to St. Louis. August 21, Kevin Hart: Hollywood heavyweight Kevin Hart is guaranteed to make you laugh out loud on his What Now? Tour.
The Sheldon Concert Hall & Art Galleries, 3648 Washington, 314-533-9900, sheldonconcerthall.org. Through May 30, Wallace Herndon Smith (Bellwether Gallery of St. Louis Artists): The St. Louis–born Smith was a traditional but versatile painter who turned out still-lifes, landscapes, portraits, and interiors. Through January 2, A World of Music: Africa, Asia, and Latin America—Instruments from the Hartenberger World Music Collection (Gallery of Music): In celebration of the donation of historic and contemporary musical instruments by Jeff and Aurelia Hartenberger, this exhibit delves into the artistry of musical instruments and their past. Three classical concerts will be performed in conjunction with the exhibit. Through May 9, Mario Algaze: A Respect for Light (Gallery of Photography): Black & white photos taken by Algaze in Central and South America between 1974 and 2011. March 6–May 16, 50 Years of Magic: Bob Kramer’s Marionnettes (AT&T Gallery of Children’s Art): Kramer’s handcrafted puppets are delightful no matter your age. Through May 23, Dive Into the Dream: Drawings by Bill Perry (Nancy Spirtas Kranzberg Gallery): Perry’s mystical ink drawings will be on display. Through May 2, Christner: 50 Years of Shaping the Built Environment in St. Louis (Bernoudy Gallery of Architecture): Evolution of the collaborative architecture firm Christner. April 8, Central and South America: David Halen and Kirk Hanser headline this vibrant presentation of Central and South American music. April 17, Todd Snider: This night of modern folk music is sure to be unique and humorous. April 18, Sheldon Gala 2015: Singers Over Manhattan (John Pizzarelli Quartet with special guest Jane Monheit): Vocalist Monheit and guitarist Pizzarelli join forces for a night of delightful duets. April 20 & 21, Chamber Music Society of St. Louis (Brasstravaganza): All about that brass! April 21 & 22, Swing Set: A fun- filled set of classic jazz songs from the ’30s and ’40s. April 24, Suzy Bogguss: A Tribute to Merle Haggard: Bogguss celebrates the release of her new album, “Lucky,” honoring the legendary Merle Haggard. April 29, Home Free: Season 4 “Sing-Off” Champs bring their unique country a capella style to St. Louis in support of their debut album, “Crazy Life.” April 30, Peter Martin Trio with Brian Owens (11th Annual Evening of Hope to benefit Hope Happens): This inspiring evening of philanthropy and music benefits the Hope Center for Neurological Disorders at the Washington University School of Medicine. May 2, Cécile McLorin Salvant: This up-and-coming jazz singer is bringing her Grammy-nominated voice to St. Louis for one night only. May 3, Hurray for the Riff Raff with special guest Daniel Romano: Next-generation folk artist Alynda Lee Segarra is sure to impress. May 5, Welcome to Night Vale: This charmingly spooky twice-monthly podcast describes what it’s like to live in the tiny fictional desert town of Night Vale. May 9, Bottoms Up Blues Gang: The band puts a fresh spin on old-timey blues. May 12, Chamber Music Society of St. Louis (Hardcore Classics 2015): Special guest Sylvia McNair performs with the St. Louis Women’s HOPE Chorale. May 28, Alarm Will Sound: Energetic, adventurous chamber orchestra. June 16, Cortango Orquesta: Concert and tango band made up of St. Louis Symphony members will add a little spice to your life.
The Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House, 15193 Olive, 636-530-0076, missouribotanicalgarden.org. April 4–26, Spring Fling: Insects that aid garden growth are celebrated every weekend in April. May 3, Fancy Tea with Mommy and Me: A delightful tea party for moms and kids! June 10–24, Firefly Festival: Evening celebrations of all things lightning bug. July 11, Big Hunt: Games and crafts await as you head outdoors to explore nature at its finest. July 17 & 18, Breakfast with the Very Hungry Caterpillar: A reading of Eric Carle’s classic, complete with the titular critter’s favorite foods and real live caterpillars. July 17, Evening Insect Adventure: Blacklighting: Nocturnal insects are on display in this one-of-a-kind exhibit. August 2–30, Paper Kite Butterfly Festival: Watch and enjoy as paper kite butterflies flutter through the Butterfly House on Sundays all month long.
Wildey Theatre, 252 N. Main, Edwardsville, Ill., 618-307-1750, wildeytheatre.com. May 8, Roger McGuinn: Co-founder of the Byrds performs the band’s iconic hits. May 15, Samantha Fish: This girl with guitar from Kansas City performs covers of such legendary rock groups as the Rolling Stones and Heart.
World Chess Hall of Fame, 4652 Maryland, 314-367-9243, worldchesshof.org. Through June 7, A Memorable Life: A Glimpse into the Complex Mind of Bobby Fischer: This exhibit examines Fischer’s impact on the game of chess. Through April 26: Living Like Kings: A look at how chess and hip-hop culture are connected.
