Feeling the itch for a night out but aren’t sure where to go? Don’t resign yourself to another uneventful week! Pittsburgh’s vibrant live entertainment scene is bustling with exciting possibilities for last minute ticket purchases. This next week in April offers a smorgasbord of live experiences, from electrifying concerts to captivating theater productions. Whether you’re a comedy fan, a lover of classical composers, or simply seeking a night of unexpected fun, there’s something for everyone. So, dust off your dancing shoes, silence your inner couch potato, and get ready to experience the magic of live performances in Pittsburgh.
Terence Blanchard’s Fire Shut Up In My Bones: Excerpts in Concert
Byham Theater, April 9
African American composer Terence Blanchard’s Fire Shut Up In My Bones proved that opera and classical music can appeal to everyone. Now The E-Collective, Turtle Island Quartet, and visuals by Andrew F. Scott brings Blanchard’s successful, respected composition back to life for a Pittsburgh audience.
Christian McBride
August Wilson Cultural Center, April 9
Don’t miss your chance to see eight-time grammy winner and jazz musician/bassist Christian McBride live in concert. Besides playing and creating music, Christian also hosts NPR’s “Jazz Night in America” and “The Lowdown: Conversations With Christian” on SiriusXM.
The Importance of Being Earnest
O’Reilly Theater, April 9-14
See the dazzling comedy The Importance of Being Earnest by British playwright (and figure of 19th century scandal) Oscar Wilde. Follow Jack and Algernon, two men who lead a double life in the countryside. The two cultivate the affections of society ladies, testing who can create the best web of lies without being caught, and in the process revealing some unexpected truths. If you’ve ever misplaced a baby in a handbag, this play is for you.
The Show of 1000 Tomorrows
Attack Theatre Studios, April 9-13
This dance performance personifies the feelings of past, present, and future among remnants of a World’s Fair. This story led by director and choreographer Peter Kope will take you through a thousand tomorrows in one sitting. It’s inspiring, heartbreaking, and so much more.
Scenes from an Execution
Abiding Missions, April 9-27
Writer Howard Barker takes us back to the 16th century for a tale about political powers and personal values. In this play, female painter Galactia must paint a canvas by order of the Doge that celebrates a triumphant battle. Watch her conflicted feelings as she weighs her options with laughs along the way.
Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me!
Benedum Center, April 11
You can claim your spot in the studio audience at a live taping of NPR’s trivia comedy news show. Watch Peter Sagel and his comedian friends talk about newsworthy topics through comedic questions to callers around the country. He promises not to lean too heavily into jokes about “fries on your sandwich.”
Fascinatin’ Rhythm: A Gershwin Celebration
Heinz Hall, April 12-14
Relive some of George Gershwin’s most popular with conductor Byron Stripling and featuring singer Sydney McSweeney. Take in an evening of live music celebrating George Gershwin’ 125th birthday with songs like “Someone To Watch Over Me” and “Man I Love.”
Visions
Kelly Strayhorn Theater, April 12-14
Bodiography hosts a series of contemporary dance numbers featuring Maria Caruso’s ballets in and a premiere by principal company artist, Isaac Ray, and guest artist, Ellen Rosa Taylor. Plus, Lauren Suflita Skrabalak will also present a restaging of her 2003 ballet, Synthesis.
Bell Family – Featuring Poogie Bell and Winston Bell
Greer Cabaret Theater, April 13
Father and son duo Poogie Bell and Winston Bell astound with their signature jazz sound that transports you from 1960s Pittsburgh to today. Listen to contemporary versions of compositions from Charles Bell Sr., compositions from Poogie Bell, and new compositions from Winston Bell.
Fascinatin’ Fidd
Heinz Hall, April 13
Fiddlesticks the cat wants to make sure everyone has a great time at this family-friendly, accessible concert of George Gershwin’s music. The performance will be ASL interpreted, include family restrooms, quiet rooms, noise-canceling headphones, fidgets, and feature hands-on activities,
Rock ‘N Remember Live!
Benedum Center, April 13
Remember the beginning ages of rock ‘n roll with a concert featuring some of the era’s biggest artists. Hear from Little Anthony and the Magic, The Lettermen, Gary Puckett and the Union Gap, Lovin’ Spoonful, The Duprees, and Jimmie Ross and the Jaggerz.
Dog Man: The Musical
Byham Theater, April 13-14
The bestselling children’s comic series Dog Man by Dav Pilkey gets a musical upgrade. With the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, Dog Man is used to fighting crime. But, can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings and catch Petey the evil cat all in one stage show?
Story by Kylie Thomas
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