Christie Brinkley

thursday, may 10

Chicago

Christie Brinkley makes her San Diego debut as she reprises her killer role in the six-time Tony Award-winning musical smash hit Chicago. This tale of greed, murder, corruption and show biz is filled with hit songs such as “ All That Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango” and “Razzle Dazzle.”

San Diego Civic Theatre, 1098 Third Ave. in San Diego, 7:30 p.m., tickets from $28.75, 619-570-1100, broadwaysd.com.

Romeo and Juliet

friday, may 11

Romeo and Juliet

City Ballet of San Diego presents Romeo and Juliet , the classic story of romance and tragedy. This premiere full-length production is choreographed by Elizabeth Wistrich with live music performed by the City Ballet orchestra conducted by John Nettles.

Spreckels Theatre, 121 Broadway in San Diego, 8 p.m., tickets from $29, 619-220-8497, cityballet.org.

saturday, may 12

Humphreys Concerts by the bay present Devo

Almost 40 years after first appearing in their yellow jumpsuits and “flower-pot” hats, Devo is still making music together. Devo formed in Akron, Ohio in 1972. They were new wave’s first and most successful band. Their huge single “Whip It,” with the help of MTV made them a cult sensation. In 2010, Devo released their first album in 20 years, Something For Everybody, which proved that Devo could continue to create quality music that appeals to fans new and old, still fitting comfortably with their back catalog.

Humphreys Concerts by the bay, 2241 Shelter Island Dr. in San Diego, 8 p.m., tickets $60, 800-745-3000, humphreysconcerts.com.

Devo

sunday, may 13

San Diego Mother’s Day cruises

Show Mom how much you appreciate all she does by gathering the family together for a relaxing day on San Diego Bay. Choose from morning brunch, afternoon brunch, or an evening dinner cruise, and celebrate in style. Live music, great food and lovely scenery make Mother’s Day extra special.

Hornblower Cruises and Events, Grape Street Pier, 1800 North Harbor Drive in San Diego, 9:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m. or 6 p.m., tickets from $64.95 per guest, 619-686-8700, hornblower.com.

Dita Von Teese

monday, may 14

Dita Von Teese Burlesque: Strip Strip Hooray! variety show

She is the biggest name in burlesque since Gypsy Rose Lee. She is a modern day fashion icon who tops best-dressed lists all over the world. She is credited for bringing back the glamour and allure of Old Hollywood stars. She is Dita Von Teese.

House of Blues, 1055 Fifth Ave. in San Diego,7 p.m., tickets from $35, 619-299-258, houseofblues.com.

Alan Gilbert

tuesday, may 15

The New York Philharmonic

La Jolla Music Society presents the oldest and most famous of all major American orchestras, the New York Philharmonic which is the definitive international-level orchestra in America. Conducted by Alan Gilbert the program includes Dvořák’s Carnival Overture, Opus 92, Debussy’s La Mer and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 in F Minor, Opus 36.

Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St. in San Diego, 8 p.m., tickets from $27, 858-459-3728, ljms.org.

wednesday, may 16

Master Harold … and the Boys

Living Light Theatre presents South African playwright Athol Fugard’s heart-wrenching drama, Master Harold … and the Boys. An ordinary rainy afternoon in 1950s South Africa turns into a profound and life-changing experience for young, white Harold and the beloved black servants who have been his surrogate fathers. Faced with the return of his tyrannical father, Harold transfers his anger and pain to his servants, transforming their relationship for the first time from childhood friends and companions into subservient help. Master Harold is a stunning masterpiece, one of the most powerful coming-of-age plays ever written, and a timely, compelling and moving drama.

Lyceum Space Theatre, Horton Plaza in San Diego, 7:30 p.m., tickets $28, 619-544-1000, livinglighttheatre.webs.com.

thursday, may 3

Stars of the Russian Ballet

Enjoy a beautiful evening of dance at San Diego’s historic Balboa Theatre with a repertory program featuring highlights from some of the world’s greatest ballets, including Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Don Quixote, Pas de Quatre, Paquita and more.

The Stars of the Russian Ballet company have performed around the world, thrilling audiences and impressing critics.

Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave. in San Diego, 7:30 p.m., tickets from $30, 619-570-1100, sandiegotheatres.org.

friday, may 4

Technomania Circus presents The Chicken Show

Technomania Circus is difficult to explain, but easy to enjoy. You never know what you’ll find happening in the Blackyard: blacklight illusion, performance art, dance, puppetry, music, and more. Whatever you find, it’s never ordinary.

Victory Theater, 2558 Imperial Ave. in San Diego, 8 p.m., tickets $10, 619-236-1971, technomaniacircus.com.

saturday, may 5

Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo

The 28th Annual Fiesta Old Town Cinco De Mayo is the largest Cinco de Mayo celebration north of the border. This fun fiesta will feature an array of activities and entertainment for all ages to enjoy. Latin fever is spreading like wildfire and you won’t want to miss out on this opportunity to be surrounded by the history and culture of Mexico while taking part in the biggest fiesta of the year!

Cinderella

Historic Old Town, San Diego Ave. in San Diego, 11 a.m.–10 p.m., free, 619-291-4903, fiestaoldtown.com.

sunday, may 6

Cinderella

Choreographed by Eugene Ballet Artistic Director Toni Pimble, and featuring Sergei Prokofiev’s score, this magical and sumptuous ballet features California Ballet principal dancer Chie Kudo and guest artist Vadim Solomakha. The wicked step-sisters are played “en traveste” (males in female roles) which prove a perfect comic foil for the heroine Cinderella. Later scenes include four fairies representing the four seasons and twelve gnomes that escort Cinderella through the enchanted forest to the Prince’s Grand Ball.

San Diego Civic Theatre, 1098 Third Ave. in San Diego, 1 p.m., tickets from $25, 619-570-1100, californiaballet.org.

monday, may 7

Ramp It Up: Skateboard Culture in Native America

Experience the rich world of skateboarding and celebrate the vibrancy, creativity and history of Native American skateboarding culture. Showing for the first time outside of the Smithsonian, this new traveling exhibition features rare images, video of Native American skaters and more than twenty skate decks created by Native artists.

San Diego Museum of Man, 1350 El Prado in Balboa Park, open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., adult admission $12.50, 619-239-2001 museumofman.org.

tuesday, may 8

Brownie Points

Five mothers stranded in a Georgia mountain lodge with 14 Brownie Scouts are confronted with the many challenges of earning the “Friendship Merit Badge.”

Yellow Snappers by Lee Peterson

Janece Shaffer’s funny, moving and powerful new play about friendship, miscommunication and self-discovery has created a buzz around the country. Lamb’s presents its Southern California premiere, directed by associate artistic director, Deborah Gilmour Smyth and featuring five of San Diego’s finest actors: Kaja Amado Dunn, Monique Gaffney, Cynthia Gerber, Erika Beth Phillips and Karson St. John.

Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave. in Coronado, 7:30 p.m., tickets from $26, 619-437-6000, lambsplayers.org.

wednesday, may 9

Liquid Capture: Masters of Underwater Photography

Oceanside Museum of Art celebrates the challenging medium of underwater photography with Liquid Capture: Masters of Underwater Photography, providing visitors a glimpse inside the vibrant ecosystems that lie beneath the ocean surface. This juried exhibition, organized by renowned photographer Lee Peterson, features 49 works by 25 different artists from around the world. The work on view invites viewers to take a fish’s view of the vast ocean, and experience diverse life forms such as sea anemones, urchins and pygmy seahorses.

Oceanside Museum of Art, 704 Pier View Way in Oceanside, open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., general admission $8, 760-435-3720, oma-online.org.

Cirque du Soleil: Totem

thursday, april 26

Cirque du Soleil’s Totem

Totem traces the fascinating journey of the human species from its original amphibian state to its ultimate desire to fly. The characters evolve on a stage evoking a giant turtle, the symbol of origin for many ancient civilizations. Inspired by many founding myths, Totem illustrates, through a visual and acrobatic language, the evolutionary progress of species. Somewhere between science and legend Totem explores the ties that bind man to other species, his dreams and his infinite potential.

Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. in Del Mar, 8 p.m., tickets from $53.50, 858-755-1161, cirquedusoleil.com.

friday, april 27

Norman, Is That You?

Community Actors Theatre presents a hilarious comedy play about a man and his wife who are having marital problems. After the wife leaves her husband, he travels to New York City to be with his son whom he surprisingly finds out is gay. The first play to openly discuss homosexuality, don’t miss this delightfully, entertaining comedy.

Community Actors Theatre, 2957 54th Street in San Diego, 8 p.m., tickets $14, 619-264-3391, communityactorstheatre.com.

Tribal Seeds

saturday, april 28

SoCal Reggae Festival 2012

Valley View Casino presents the 2012 SoCal Reggae Festival featuring Tribal Seeds, Through the Roots, Fortunate Youth and Tomorrows Bad Seeds.

Headliners Tribal Seeds’ authentic sound has brought them to the forefront of the reggae rock genre, as their art form has reached people of all ages across the United States and worldwide.

Mission Federal ArtWalk

Valley View Casino Center, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd. in San Diego, 6:30 p.m., tickets $29, 619-224-4171, valleyviewcasinocenter.com.

sunday, april 29

Mission Federal ArtWalk

Enjoy the outdoor casual atmosphere of this traditional San Diego event.

Mission Federal ArtWalk , in the hip and historic neighborhood of Little Italy, is the perfect opportunity to view and purchase art and talk with artists. A delightful way to spend your Sunday.

ArtWalk in Little Italy, 2210 Columbia Street in San Diego, 11 a.m,-6 p.m., free, missionfederalartwalk.org.

monday, april 30

To The Arctic

(L to R) Jeremy Gumbs, Rodney Hicks, Josh Breckenridge, Derrick Cobey, Kendrick Jones, Julius Thomas III, Joshua Henry, Christian Dante White and James T. Lane in The Scottsboro Boys

Travel on a never before seen journey into the lives of a mother polar bear and her two seven-month old cubs as they navigate the changing Arctic wilderness they call home. Narrated by two-time Academy Award winner Meryl Streep.

Eugene Heikoff and Marilyn Jacobs Heikoff Imax Dome Theater, The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, 1875 El Prado in Balboa Park, showtimes 12, 2 and 4 p.m., adult admission $15.75, 619-238-1233, rhfleet.org.

tuesday, may 1

The Scottsboro Boys

Jenn Porreca, Crossing the Divide

This daring and wildly entertaining new musical explores a pivotal moment in American history with arresting originality, innovative staging and a breathtaking score. Based on the notorious “Scottsboro” case of the 1930s, this inspiring and shocking story tells of the nine unjustly accused African American men whose lives would eventually spark the civil rights movement.

Old Globe Theatre, Conrad Prebys Theatre Center, 1363 Old Globe Way in Balboa Park, 7 p.m., tickets from $39, 619-234-5623, theoldglobe.org.

wednesday, may 2

Crossing the Divide

ArtHatch and Distinction Gallery present a compelling new show featuring the stunning work of San Francisco artist Jenn Porreca. This body of work is a culmination of years of experiences, memories and triggers to what ultimately is a bridge to freedom for Porreca both as a woman and as an artist. It includes mixed media works with pencil, acrylic and oil, and a handful of original sketches.

Distinction Gallery, 317 E. Grand Ave. in Escondido, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., free, 760-781-5779, distinctionart.com.

Sunny star, Yoo Ho-Jeong

thursday, april 19

San Diego Asian Film Foundation Spring Showcase

The 2nd annual San Diego Asian Film Foundation Spring Showcase is a week-long celebration of Asian cinema at the Mission Valley UltraStar Cinemas, April 19-26. An exciting collection of 11 titles from 8 countries features the best in Asian cinema. There are films from Japan, India and Korea, plus documentaries and more.

This Thursday the featured movie is Sunny , a South Korean film about a group of middle aged-women going through various mid-life struggles, seeking to reunite with each other.

Mission Valley UltraStar Cinemas, 7510 Hazard Center Drive in San Diego, 7 p.m., general tickets $11, festival.sdaff.org.

friday, april 20

The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940

Complete with Nazi saboteurs, secret passageways, flickering lights and the blizzard of the century, this ingenious and wildly comic romp spoofs the great murder mystery movies of the 1940s. Can you unravel the identity of the Stage Door Slasher? Murder has never been this much fun!

Coronado Playhouse, 1835 Strand Way in Coronado, 8 p.m., tickets $25, 619-435-4856, coronadoplayhouse.com.

saturday, april 21

The Barber Of Seville

San Diego Opera presents The Barber of Seville , a riotous musical comedy and one of the most popular in the operatic repertoire. Barber by day, matchmaker by night, Figaro puts his wiles to work as he aids the Count in wooing the beautiful Rosina. She’s such a catch that her sleazy guardian keeps her under lock and key with the intent of marrying her himself. But no challenge is too great for Figaro’s trickery. And, with laughter at every turn, the cunning Rosina is no slouch at manipulating things herself!

1940 Ford

San Diego Civic Theatre, 1098 Third Ave. in San Diego, 7 p.m., tickets from $50, 619-570-1100, sdopera.com.

sunday, april 22

Adams Avenue Unplugged

A brand new type of weekend music and art festival debuts on Adams Avenue. Adams Avenue Unplugged will take place the weekend of April 21 and 22 along a two mile stretch of Adams from Texas Street on the West, on through Normal Heights and into parts of Kensington to the East. The event will feature 170 live musical performances staged inside or around more than 30 restaurants and bars lining the neighborhood. Musicians will also perform on three community stages spread throughout the area.

Nicolas Poussin’s The Holy Family Returning to Nazareth

Adams Avenue Business District, Adams Ave. in San Diego, 11a.m.-9 p.m., free, 619-282-732, adamsavenuebusiness.com.

monday, april 23

Woodies

From the Model T to the iconic surfer car, relive the history and evolution of the famous “Woodie” at the San Diego Automotive Museum. See the cars that helped create that everlasting image of Southern California life.

Gas House Baby author, David Myers

San Diego Automotive Museum, 2080 Pan American Plaza in Balboa Park, adult admission $8, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 619-231-2886, sdautomuseum.org.

tuesday, april 24

Object Lessons: France in the Golden Age

On display at the Timken Museum of Art, is a concentration of five French seventeenth-century paintings in the first of a series of small displays of art called Object Lessons. This inaugural grouping is mounted on the occasion of the loan of Nicolas Poussin’s The Holy Family Returning to Nazareth from the Cleveland Museum of Art.

The cast of The Barber Of Seville

Timken Museum of Art, 1500 El Prado in Balboa Park, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., free, 619-239-5548, timkenmuseum.org.

wednesday, april 25

Gas House Baby

Cotton just got divorced, lost his job, and is living in a Motel 8. Coming back home to Shreveport, La., his life is about to change in ways he could never have predicted. In a play about fracking, fatherhood, and family secrets, one man figures out what it means to be a good father and a good son, and what happens when it’s impossible to be both.

La Jolla Playhouse: Mandell Weiss Theatre, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive in La Jolla, 8 p.m., tickets from $10, 858-550-1010, theatre.ucsd.edu.

Tim Minchin

thursday, april 12

Tim Minchin

Australian musician, actor, comedian and writer Tim Minchin has been performing his unique brand of musical comedy in front of appropriately excitable and ever growing audiences since 2005. During his shows he plays the piano, “… always nicely and oftentimes wildly and excitingly, whilst looking wonderfully athletic, in a pair of delightfully uncomfortable skinny jeans.”

Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave. in San Diego, 8 p.m., tickets $32, 619-570-1100, sandiegotheatres.org.

Ellis Hall

friday, april 13

Tribute To Ray Charles

Ray Charles was truly one of the legendary voices in American music. Ellis Hall, a former protégé of Ray Charles, pays tribute to the master with hits such as “I Can’t Stop Loving You,” “This Little Girl of Mine,” “Hit the Road Jack” and perhaps his most popular, “Georgia On My Mind.” Principal Pops Conductor Marvin Hamlisch leads this rocking, singing, soaring homage to a true American original.

Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B Street in San Diego, 8 p.m., tickets from $20, 619-235-0804, sandiegosymphony.org.

saturday, april 14

Music for Winds and Percussion

Under the direction of John Winkelman and celebrating their 26th year of performing, The Hillcrest Wind Ensemble (HWE) presents their upcoming concert, Music for Winds and Percussion. From the dramatic “Jericho” and “American Salute” by Morton Gould and “Trittic” by Valclav Nelhybel to the rollicking “Flute Rag” for flute trio, this will be an evening of music written exclusively for wind ensemble and concert band. The concert will also feature the winning compositions from HWE’s 2011/12 international Call for Scores composition contest.

St. Paul’s Cathedral, 2728 Sixth Ave. in San Diego, 7 p.m., tickets $15, tickets available at The Windsmith, 3875 Granada Ave. North Park or at the door, 692-2077 ext 814, hillcrestwindensemble.com.

sunday, april 15

A Man His Wife And His Hat

Hetchman loves his hat. Oh, and his wife, too. But when both go missing, the retired hat maker vows to stop at nothing to find them. If he can ever muster the strength to leave his armchair. But the arrival of a talking wall and a hungry golem threatens to derail his endeavor. A love triangle between a man, his wife and his hat.

Moxie Theatre, 6663 El Cajon Blvd. in San Diego, 2 p.m., tickets $25, 858-598-7620, moxietheatre.com.

monday, april 16

Bronx Pizza 15th Anniversary

Bronx Pizza, San Diego’s first real by-the-slice pizzeria is proud to announce its 15-year anniversary. Come help them celebrate as they roll prices back to opening day in 1997. A free T-shirt for the first 100 customers in the door.

Bronx Pizza, 111 Washington Street in San Diego, 11 a.m-10 p.m., 619-291-3341, bronxpizza.com.

Jody Watley

tuesday, april 17

Madness

Madness was one of the leading bands of the ska revival of the late ’70s and early ’80s. As their career progressed, Madness branched away from their trademark “nutty sound” and incorporated large elements of Motown, soul, and British pop. The band enjoyed a crossover American hit in 1983 with “Our House” and remained a British phenomenon, becoming one of the most beloved groups the country produced during the ’80s.

Humphreys Concerts by the bay, 2241 Shelter Island Drive in San Diego, 8 p.m., tickets from $48, 800-745-3000, humphreysconcerts.com.

Madness

wednesday, april 18

Jody Watley

Jody Watley is an innovative music maker and a style-forging pioneer. Since the mid-’90s, Grammy-winning multi-talented Chicago-born Watley has led the way as an entrepreneur working in the independent music world as one of the few already-established female best-selling artists to produce, create and own her recordings. Watley is currently completing her 10th album.

Anthology, 1337 India Street in San Diego, 7:30 p.m., tickets from $14, 619-595-0300, anthologysd.com.

Francis Gerke, Jessica John and Brian Mackay in the Diversionary Theatre production of The Pride

thursday, april 5

The Pride

Oliver, Philip and Sylvia are caught in a love triangle. Their complex and tumultuous relationship shifts from the repression of 1958 to the sexual liberation of 2008 and back again. Characters in the past and modern day share the same names and are played by the same actors. It starts in 1958 with Philip, an uptight estate agent, and his wife Sylvia, who are entertaining a young novelist, Oliver. There is an unspoken but palpable tension that results in a passionate and guilt-ridden affair between Philip and Oliver. Sylvia is filled with a deep loneliness and caught in a loveless marriage. In 2008, Oliver is a sex-addicted journalist who longs to get back together with his ex, Philip. Sylvia plays the friend stuck in the middle.

Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd. in San Diego, 8 p.m., preview admission $20, 619-220-0097, diversionary.org.

Martha Reeves and The Vandellas

friday, april 6

Martha Reeves and The Vandellas

Martha And The Vandellas was one of the most successful groups on the Motown roster from 1963-1967. The group has a harder R&B sound, and their songs, “Jimmy Mack”, “Dancing in the Street”, and “(Love Is Like a) Heat Wave” became the signatures of their career. From 1963 to 1972, the group charted over twenty-six hits, including two R&B Billboard number ones. In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine ranked the group No. 96 on their list of the 100 greatest artists of all time.

Anthology, 1337 India Street in San Diego, 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., tickets from $16 ($12 9:30 p.m.), 619-595-0300, anthologysd.com.

The cast of Deconstruction of a Drag Queen. (L to R) Julio Jacobo, James P. Darvas, Shaun Tuazon, Melissa Coleman-Reed, Kevane La’Marr Coleman, Justin Warren Martin

saturday, april 7

Deconstruction of a Drag Queen

While Michael’s mother fantasizes that her only son will grow-up to become a doctor, Michael is busy trying on his sister’s dresses and dancing to female pop artists of the ’80s.

In Circle Circle dot dot’s most ambitious project to date, Deconstruction of a Drag Queen takes the audience into the world of stilettos, a one-stop gender-bending performance destination to join ringleader the Duchess Hunny Mustard as she puts on a very special production that unveils the crowning of their newest queen. Based on the true story of local drag sensation Grace Towers.

10th Avenue Theatre, 930 10th Ave. in San Diego, 8 p.m., tickets from $10, For tickets e-mail circle@circle2dot2.com or visit circle2dot2.com.

sunday, april 8

The Chocolate Affair

A day of chocolate indulgence to launch the Maritime Museum’s new exhibit on the history of chocolate and how it came to our country. A family friendly event with vendors focusing on chocolate edibles, fun and crafts for kids (including making their own chocolate pizza), demonstrations and other interesting items for adults.

Sunset in the Antarctic

Maritime Museum of San Diego, 1492 N. Harbor Drive in San Diego, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., adult general admission $15, 619-234-9153, sdmaritime.org.

monday, april 9

Working on Thin Ice

Celebrate 25 years of ecosystem research by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on Earth’s most extreme continent. Photographs spanning the history of NOAA’s U.S. Antarctic Marine Living Resources (AMLR) Program – of scientists at work and the wildlife they study – are on display alongside retired research gear and real Antarctic zooplankton specimens.

Kelly Clarkson

San Diego Natural History Museum, 1788 El Prado in Balboa Park, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., adult admission $15, 619-232-3821, sdnhm.org.

tuesday, april 10

Kelly Clarkson

See global superstar Kelly Clarkson on her Stronger Tour 2012 in support of her fifth studio album, Stronger, which was released Oct. 24. The album, Stronger, debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard Top 200 and No. 2 on the Digital Albums Chart. All five of Kelly’s albums have debuted in the Top 3.

Brothels, Bites, and Booze: a culinary tour of San Diego’s questionable past

Valley View Casino Center, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd. in San Diego, 7:30 p.m., doors open at 6:30 p.m., tickets from $35, 619-224-4171, valleyviewcasinocenter.com.

wednesday, april 11

Brothels, Bites, and Booze

Savor the flavors of the Gaslamp Quarter. Travel into a world of scandal and debauchery as you walk through the streets of the famous Stingaree District, formerly known as the largest red light district in Southern California – with more than 120 brothels at one point in time. The Brothels, Bites, and Booze tour will allow you to experience a number of cuisines and restaurants for the ultimate experience of downtown San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter.

Meet at corner of Fifth and L Street, under the Gaslamp Quarter sign near the Hard Rock Hotel. Address to use: 207 Fifth Ave. in San Diego, 6:30 p.m., $45 per person, 619-233-8687, sodiegotours.com.

thursday, march 29

Tour de Cuisine – Celebration of French gastronomy and wines

Experience the 2nd Annual Tour de Cuisine restaurant week now through April 1. Get a unique French culinary experience and enjoy a great prix fixe menu of $30, $40 and $50 at participating restaurants. All of the participating restaurants have French proprietors who love San Diego and want to share their savoir-faire and passion in the field of fine cuisine with the residents of San Diego.

For participating restaurants and more information call 619-544 1445 or visit sdtourdecuisine.com.

friday, march 30

Rhythm Of The Dance

This dance and music extravaganza has heralded a new era in Irish entertainment, internationally rated as one of the most popular and busiest Irish step dance shows in the world and aspires to a purity of content preserving the traditions of Irish step dancing and yet presenting it in a modern format. Featuring a live band, three tenors and some 22 dancers, this show will fill the stagewith Irish cheer and thrills while it takes you on an Irish dance journey!

Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave. in San Diego, 7:30 p.m., tickets from $30.50, 619-570-1100, sandiegotheatres.org.

saturday, march 31

LGBT Night at the Theatre

Urban Pride San Diego, along with Common Ground Theatre (CGT), in collaboration with SDCCD Continuing Education Division, will host a special LGBT Night at the Theatre for the production of for colored girls who have considered suicide when the rainbow is enuf, by Ntozake Shange. The work is a series of 20 poems, collectively called a “choreopoem.” The production consists of a cast of seven women characters each of whom is known only by a color. The poems deal with love, abandonment, rape, and abortion, embodied by each woman’s story.

Educational Cultural Complex, 4343 Ocean View Blvd. in San Diego, 8 p.m., special ticket price $15, please mention the event code: Urban Pride – San Diego, 619-822-5793 or email urbanpridesd@gmail.com.

sunday, april 1

Mission Valley Craft Beer and Food Festival

Beer and food are natural partners and the third annual Mission Valley Craft Beer and Food Festival offers a wide variety of both. Wonderful craft beers from local breweries and food vendors who are all chefs who bring their “A” game to the table. Add to that, three fantastic bands and a partnership with Fresh Start Surgical Gifts and Wounded Warrior Homes, and you have a spectacular day of food, beer and fun for a great cause.

Handlery Hotel and Resort, 950 Hotel Circle North in San Diego, 1–5 p.m., general admission $45 on the day, 619-398-8348.

Ted Nash

monday, april 2

Ted Nash Quartet

Ted Nash is best known as a jazz composer and saxophonist. Born into a musical family, his father was trombonist Dick Nash. Odeon is Nash’s eclectic group that has garnered much attention in the jazz world. In addition to leading his own groups and ensembles, Nash also is very instrumental in working with the Jazz Composers Collective.

Anthology, 1337 India Street in San Diego, 7:30 p.m., tickets from $10, 619-595-0300, anthologysd.com.

Michael Reafsnyder: King Kandy 2012, acrylic on canvas, 72”x60”

tuesday, april 3

Gleam

R.B. Stevenson Gallery presents a solo exhibition of new paintings by Los Angeles artist Michael Reafsnyder. Gleam is Michael Reafsnyder’s third solo exhibition at the R.B. Stevenson Gallery. His work is in numerous public and private collections including the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Laguna Art Museum and the Portland Art Museum. Michael Reafsnyder lives and works in Southern California.

R.B. Stevenson Gallery, 661 Girard Ave. #201 in La Jolla, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., free admission, 858-459-3917, rbstevensongallery.com.

wednesday, april 4

Eyes of a Nation: A Century of American Photography

Eyes of a Nation is a look at the rich history of American photography by artists working in the 1870s-1970s. It explores the groundbreaking movements and photographers who helped shape photography at an important time in the development of our country.

Museum of Photographic Arts, 1649 El Prado in Balboa Park, 10 a.m.– 5 p.m., admission $8 adults, 619-238-7559, mopa.org.

Bodhisattva, limestone with traces of pigment, ca. 550–77, Xiangtangshan, China

thursday, march 22

Echoes of the Past: The Buddhist cave temples of Xiangtangshan

Majestic sixth century Chinese Buddhist sculpture is combined with 21st century 3D-imaging technology in this exploration of one of the most important groups of Buddhist devotional sites in early medieval China. A video installation, touch screens and research kiosks enable visitors to digitally envision some of the caves as they appeared before their tragic despoliation.

The San Diego Museum of Art, 1450 El Prado in Balboa Park, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., admission $12 adults, 619-232-7931, sdmart.org.

(L to R) Kyle Harris, Karen Ziemba and Ephie Aardema in A Room with a View

friday, march 23

¡Viva el Teatro!

The Old Globe will celebrate the region’s vibrant Hispanic community with ¡Viva el Teatro! The special event begins with backstage tours and a catered reception featuring hors d’oeuvres from premier catering provider Northgate González Market and wines from Baja California wineries Madera 5, Bodegas San Rafael, Vino Santa Úrsula and Monte Xanic Vineyard and Winery. Guests will also enjoy the live music of flamenco guitarist Anthony García. Following the reception will be an 8 p.m. performance of the world premiere musical A Room with a View.

The Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way in Balboa Park, 5:30 p.m., tickets $100 each and includes both the reception and performance, 619-231-1941 x2317, TheOldGlobe.org.

Poppy Champlin

saturday, march 24

The Queer Queens of Qomedy

Internationally known comedian, Poppy Champlin selects the best of the best lesbian comics from across the country to join her in the San Diego Show. Poppy has tapped the infamous Gina Yashere to headline the show. Gina Yashere, appears regularly on The Tonight Show as the comedic Surly Psychic, and she has recently been seen on Conan and Live at The Apollo in London. Also joining this comedy troupe is Fortune Feimster, a writer and a regular panelist on Chelsea Lately.

The Birch North Park Theatre, 2891 University Ave., Suite 1 in San Diego, 8 p.m., tickets from $25, 619-239-8836, birchnorthparktheatre.net.

Seaport Village Spring Busker Festival

sunday, march 25

Seaport Village Spring Busker Festival

Seaport Village hosts the only Busker Festival in Southern California. See professionals from across the country perform their bizarre talents from sword swallowing to knife throwing to pogo stick tricks and juggling on unicycles. Throughout the festival, some of the nation’s top performers fill the bay front village drawing visitors to shop, dine and enjoy an entire day of one-of-a-kind entertainment.

Seaport Village, on San Diego Bay at Harbor Drive and Pacific Highway, 12 p.m.-5 p.m., free, seaportvillage.com.

The Aggrolites

monday, march 26

The Aggrolites

Representing the “Dirty Reggae” movement, The Aggrolites rock out the house with their signature fusion of reggae, soul, grit and sheer determination. The L.A. Times called The Aggrolites one of “L.A.’s de facto house bands” while L.A. Weekly praised the band for using “burbling bass; optimistic organ; compact rim shot-punctuated beats; and Jesse Wagner’s warm brotherly-lurve vocals to create something that’s earthy and earnest yet utterly danceable.”

La Jolla Playhouse, Sheila and Hughes Potiker Cabaret-Style Theatre, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive in La Jolla, 8 p.m., tickets from $10, 858-550-1010, LaJollaPlayhouse.org.

tuesday, march 27

Rock Of Ages

Broadway San Diego presents the five-time Tony Award nominated smash-hit musical Rock Of Ages. In 1987 on the Sunset Strip, a small town girl meets a big city rocker in L.A.’s most famous rock club and they fall in love to the greatest songs of the ‘80s. It’s an arena-rock love story told through the mind blowing, face-melting hits of Journey, Night Ranger, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Poison, Asia, Whitesnake and many more.

San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave. in San Diego, 7 p.m., tickets from $20, 619-570-1100, sandiegotheatres.org.

Nikka Costa

wednesday, march 28

Nikka Costa

A prolific singer/songwriter, Nikka Costa is known for creating joyful, authentic, modern yet classic soul music which comes straight from her soul. Combining elements of funk, soul and blues, her songs have topped the charts all over Europe, South America and Australia. Opening for Nikka Costa is San Diego’s very own funky soul/jazz band, Tori Roze and the Hot Mess.

La Jolla Playhouse, Sheila and Hughes Potiker Cabaret-Style Theatre, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive in La Jolla, 8 p.m., tickets from $10, 858-550-1010, LaJollaPlayhouse.org.

(L to R) Bill Buell stars as Chris Christopherson, Jessica Love as Anna Christopherson and Austin Durant as Mat Burke in Anna Christie.

thursday, march 15

Anna Christie

Anna Christie is a gripping account of the relationship between an old sailor and the daughter he hasn’t seen in almost twenty years. Their new bond becomes strained when she falls in love with a young man whose seafaring life isn’t what her father wants for her. When Anna reveals to both men the shameful secret she has been harboring, they come to understand the harsh reality of her past and show her compassion, love and forgiveness.

Sheryl & Harvey White Theatre, Conrad Prebys Theatre Center, 1363 Old Globe Way in Balboa Park, 8 p.m., tickets from $29, 619-234-5623, TheOldGlobe.org.

Paul Morgavo and William Grazier in Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead

friday, march 16

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead

Acclaimed as a modern dramatic masterpiece, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead is the fabulously inventive tale of Hamlet as told from the worm’s-eye view of the bewildered Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, two minor characters in Shakespeare’s play. In Tom Stoppard’s best-known work, this Shakespearean Laurel and Hardy finally get a chance to take the lead role, but do so in a world where echoes of Waiting for Godot resound, where reality and illusion intermix, and where fate leads our two heroes to a tragic but inevitable end.

Onstage Playhouse, The Downtown Chula Vista Arts Center, 291 Third Ave. near F Street in Chula Vista, 8 p.m., tickets $16, 619-422-7787, onstageplayhouse.org.

Kinan Valdez and Vivia Font in Tortilla Curtain

saturday, march 17

Tortilla Curtain

Playwright Matthew Spangler is the author of the critically-acclaimed stage adaptation of the blockbuster novel The Kite Runner . Now Spangler has fashioned a rip-roaring tale that screams out, “We are all in this together!” Part satire and part parable, Tortilla Curtain is humorous and heart breaking, a story that speaks passionately to the future of California and the challenges of forming “a more perfect union” in our changing America.

San Diego Repertory Theatre, Lyceum Stage Theatre, Horton Plaza in San Diego, 8 p.m., tickets from $38, 619-544-1000, sdrep.org.

Laurence Juber

sunday, march 18

Laurence Juber

Laurence Juber has been captivating audiences with his unique playing style since he joined Wings as the lead guitarist in 1979. While he is probably best known for his stint with the band, he has gone on to have a distinguished career as a solo fingerstyle player.

He has earned two Grammy Awards, and numerous others. His most recent release is his original soundtrack to the NBC Dateline documentary Children of the Harvest.

Anthology, 1337 India Street in San Diego, 7 p.m., tickets from $10, 619-595-0300, anthologysd.com.

monday, march 19

Ai Weiwei: Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads: Gold (2010)

The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego presents the U.S. museum debut of Ai Weiwei’s topical and sumptuous Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads: Gold (2010). This gallery-sized installation is comprised of twelve animal heads, each depicting a segment of the ancient Chinese zodiac. The recent works by artist and activist Ai Weiwei reference a European version of the Chinese zodiac designed by Italian Jesuit Giuseppe Castiglione.

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego Downtown, Jacobs Building, 1100 and 1001 Kettner Blvd. in San Diego, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., general admission $10, 858-454-3541, mcasd.org.

tuesday, march 20

Mendelssohn’s Octet with Augustin Hadelich

Join members of the San Diego Symphony for an evening of popular chamber works including Dvořák’s Serenade for Winds and Mendelssohn’s Octet with violinist Augustin Hadelich, who will also perform Eugène Ysaÿe’s Sonata No. 4 for Solo Violin.

The Neurosciences Institute, 10640 John Jay Hopkins Drive in San Diego, 7:30 p.m., tickets $30, 619-235-0804, sandiegosymphony.org.

wednesday, march 21

The Producers

San Diego’s own, Randall Hickman and Douglas Davis, are teaming up again, (having just played Edna and Wilbur Turnblad in the Moonlight Stage Production of Hairspray. )

But this time, they are bringing their amazing chemistry to the Welk Resort Theatre as Bialystock and Bloom in Mel Brooks’ record-setting, Tony Award-Winning hit! This rollicking, record- breaking, musical is filled with non-stop laughs from beginning to end.

Welk Resort Theatre, 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive in Escondido, 1 p.m., tickets $30.50, 1-888-802-7469, welktheatersandiego.com.

Who’s Bad, the ultimate Michael Jackson tribute band

Parade

Hauntingly beautiful music permeates the Tony Award-winning score as Parade tells the true story of Jewish factory manager Leo Frank, accused and convicted in 1913 of murdering thirteen-year-old, Mary Phagan in Atlanta, Ga. Set against the backdrop of his controversial trial and conviction, Parade explores the deep love that grows between Leo and his wife Lucille as they work together to fight for his freedom.

Cygnet Theatre Company, Old Town Theatre, 4040 Twiggs Street in Old Town, 7:30 p.m., tickets $39, 619-337-1525, cygnettheatre.com.

Ten Thousand Waves

British artist Isaac Julien is acclaimed for his arresting films as well as his dynamic gallery installations. Ten Thousand Waves , his most ambitious project to date, poetically weaves together stories linking China’s ancient past and present. This nine-screen video installation explores the movement of people across countries and continents and meditates on unfinished journeys.

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego Downtown, Jacobs Building, 1100 and 1001 Kettner Blvd. in San Diego, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., general admission $10, 858-454-3541, mcasd.org.

Isaac Julien: Ten Thousand Waves

Who’s Bad

Who’s Bad, the ultimate Michael Jackson tribute band, comes to Solana Beach to share the celebration of Michael’s music and memory. The Who’s Bad live performance is widely known for top-notch musicianship and choreography, with the band performing everything from The Jackson 5’s earliest hits to Jackson’s later hits. The energy is magnetic, the music first-class and the dance moves exhilarating. Who’s Bad is a homage befitting a king and their high octane execution of Jackson’s hits has exclusively catapulted them to the ranks of ultimate.

Belly Up, 143 S. Cedros Ave. in Solana Beach, 9 p.m., tickets $18, 858-481-8140, bellyup.com.

Galaxy of Orchids showcases orchids of every description.

Galaxy of Orchids

The San Diego County Orchid Society presents Galaxy of Orchids , their annual international spring show. Orchids of every description will be seen at the show and sale.

Scottish Rite Center, 1895 Camino del Rio South in San Diego, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., admission $7, 760-529-2947, sdorchids.com.

Robin Henkel

Robin Henkel Band with horns

As a guitar player, Robin Henkel can play blues, jazz, funk, country, swing, Hawaiian and Latin music. He borrows from each of those styles when he performs and sometimes even surprises himself with the musical direction his songs take. Though he leans toward playing jazz these days, he won Best Blues CD at the San Diego Music Awards (2000) for his “Highway” recording.

Humphrey’s Backstage Live, 2241 Shelter Island Drive in San Diego, 7-11 p.m., free (no cover charge), 619-224-3577, humphreysbackstagelive.com.

San Diego Opera’s Don Pasquale

Don Pasquale

Laugh as the doddering old fool Pasquale is tricked into thinking he has married the sweet, demure and innocent convent-raised Sofronia. But she’s really Norina, in love with Pasquale’s nephew whom he is trying to disinherit. Once “married”, she becomes a gun-toting shrew who shows Pasquale that he was definitely better off without a wife. It’s San Diego Opera’s cheeky look at Don Pasquale in the Wild West, complete with a hero who enjoys a bubbly bath surrounded by beautiful bar girls, a Mariachi band and an old fool who wants to marry a much younger woman.

San Diego Civic Theatre, 1098 Third Ave. in San Diego, 7 p.m., tickets from $50, 619-533-7000, sdopera.com.

Ro Delle Grazi

The Comedy Explosion

Headliners only presents The Comedy Explosion starring national headliner Ro Delle Grazie. Ro Delle Grazie started stand up comedy in 1999. Originally from New York, at the start of her stand up career she was coached by Lisa Lampanelli. Ro went on the road opening up for her and working with her for 6 years. Ro has been featured on the Oxygen Network and on Comcast TV.

Mad House Comedy Club, 502 Horton Plaza in San Diego, 8 p.m., tickets $10, 619-702-6666, madhousecomedyclub.com.