Somi Kakoma. Courtesy of the artist.
1. Vocalist/composer/writer Somi Kakoma’s musical identity crosses the cultural bridge between America and Africa. The daughter of Rwandan and Ugandan immigrants, Kakoma channels jazz, soul, and the music of her roots. January 21. The Sheldon, thesheldon.org.
2. Seen by more than 130 million people worldwide, Les Misérables is the world’s most popular musical. The show is a timeless testament to the human spirit and includes such beloved songs as “I Dreamed a Dream” and “On My Own.” January 17–22. Fox Theatre, fabulousfox.com.
Photo by Matthew Murphy & Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade
Les Mis
3. The Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra is hosting a free Tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. the day after what would have been the civil rights leader’s 94th birthday. The IN UNISON Chorus and director Kevin McBeth will join the orchestra and music director Stéphane Denève for a special concert honoring King’s legacy. January 16, St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, slso.org.
4. Revisit the work of composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim in Side by Side by Sondheim. This cabaret-style performance explores the breadth of Sondheim’s career with songs from works such as Follies, Company, and Sunday in the Park with George. January 29–February 19. The Rep, repstl.org.
5. During the Alton Eagle Festival, visitors can see a bald eagle up close and have their picture taken with the majestic national symbol. There will also be food trucks, drinks, a DJ, ice carvers, eagle-watching tours, face-painting, and more. January 7. FLOCK & Food Truck Park, riversandroutes.com.
6. Comedian and podcaster Dan Cummins is bringing his Burn It All Down Tour to The Pageant. The late-night talk show staple is also one of Pandora’s most frequently played comedians. January 28. The Pageant, thepageant.com.
Dan Cummins. Courtesy of the artist.
7. Fabricating Empire examines the relationship between Central European folk costumes and Austrian modern design through textiles. Among the artifacts are four never-exhibited textiles and loans of early 20th century folk dress, as well as a 1913 portfolio of modern pattern designs. January 6–May 28, Saint Louis Art Museum, slam.org.
8. Experience a free outdoor drive-through spectacle at the Missouri History Museum. The Snowy Day: A Glowy Snowy Experience tells the story of Peter, a young boy playing outside with his friends during the season’s first snow. It’s based on Ezra Jack Keats’ classic children’s book, The Snowy Day. January 6–9. Repertory Theatre, repstl.org.
9. The Black Rep brings the classic story of Willy Loman to the stage this month in Death of a Salesman. In the play, Loman and his family explore the disillusionment of the American dream and the toll that it takes on their life. January 11–29. Edison Theatre, theblackrep.org.
10. Experience Broadway in St. Louis with Broadway Bound, the third part of Neil Simon’s acclaimed autobiographical trilogy. Simon is best known for his wit and heart in such plays as The Odd Couple and Barefoot in the Park. January 19–February 5. New Jewish Theatre, jccstl.com.
