75+ Triangle events, festivals, concerts, exhibits and more to make your spring
Updated: Some events may be canceled for coronavirus concerns, so check with organizers and websites before going. For an updated list of events, go here.
Spring is here, and with that comes a chance to get outdoors, explore and enjoy the many cultural opportunities in the Triangle.
Consider this your roadmap to the season, a month-by-month guide that highlights some of the biggest music, art, dance and theater offerings around.
This list is far from complete. There is just a lot going on. But it should give you an idea of where to start when it comes to entertainment, whether you’ve lived here for years or are just visiting from out of town.
MARCH
‘Yayoi Kusama: Open the Shape Called Love’
The details: Through April 12. Ackland Art Museum, 101 S. Columbia St., Chapel Hill. Free. ackland.org
Regulars of Triangle art museums will immediately recognize the polka dots of Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. The N.C. Museum of Art acquired one of Kusama’s interactive sculptures in 2018. This exhibit still features Kusama’s trademark style, but focuses on 22 of her earlier works. The work is “smaller scale” and “contemplative,” according to the museum, and offers perspective on how those dots and lights catapulted Kusama into one of the most provocative (and Instagrammable) artists today. And yes, there is a very photo-friendly mirrored sculpture, keeping with that smaller scale theme. While at the Ackland, stop by “Toriawase: A Special Installation of Modern Japanese Art and Ceramics,” on view through April 12.
‘Ebony G. Patterson ... while the dew is still on the roses ...’
The details: Feb. 27 to July 12, Nasher Museum of Art, 2001 Campus Drive, Durham. Ticket info at nasher.duke.edu.
This exhibit from the Jamaican-born artist is described as an installation “that evokes a night garden,” according to the Nasher website. Think vibrant, lush flowers surrounded by saturated hues. Patterson uses the installation of tapestries and paintings to “address violence, masculinity, bling, visibility and invisibility within the post-colonial context of her native Kingston and within black youth culture globally,” according to the Nasher website. In other words, you’ll want to stop for a minute to spend time with these roses.
‘All That Glitters’ and ‘Design By Time’
The details: “Design” open through May 17. “Glitters” open through July 24, at the Gregg Museum of Art & Design, 1903 Hillsborough St., Raleigh. Free. gregg.arts.ncsu.edu
“All That Glitters,” as the name implies, features “all things sparkly from the Gregg’s permanent collection,” according to the museum website. It’s embroidered silk banners from China and a rhinestone flapper dress, offering insights into why they were made to be pretty shiny objects. “Design By Time” showcases how 22 designers think of time and its relationship with “creation, nature and its inevitability.”
Zac Brown Band
The details: March 4, PNC Arena, 1400 Edwards Mill Road, Raleigh. Ticket info at pncarena.com.
The Grammy-winning country band regularly stops in the Triangle, having performed seven times since 2010 at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek. They’ll be back in Raleigh this year, but this time, the Zac Brown Band will take over the PNC Arena. The genre-bending band’s Raleigh stop is part of the Owl Tour, named for the most recent album, “The Owl.” Amos Lee and Jason “Poo Bear” Boyd open.
‘Julius Caesar’
The details: March 4-22, Joan H Gillings Center for Dramatic Art, 120 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill. Ticket info at playmakersrep.org.
Chapel Hill’s Playmakers Repertory Company digs deep into Shakespeare’s classic rumination on power politics. From Artistic Director Vivienne Benesch: “In this moment of political tumult and upheaval, there’s never been a better time to engage with this play and the hard truths it offers about leadership, listening, and revolution.” Can’t argue with that.
Carolina Ballet’s ‘A Celebration of Female Choreographers’
The details: March 5-22, Fletcher Opera Theater, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. Ticket info at carolinaballet.com.
The Carolina Ballet notes this is the first time that all of the performances in this program are created by women. “Bolero,” by Lynne Taylor-Corbett, presented in 2018 on the same stage, gets a repeat performance. There will be new works by choreographers on the rise: Mariana Oliveira, Adriana Pierce and Jenny Palmer.
The Wailin’ Jennys
The details: March 5, Memorial Auditorium, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. Ticket info at pinecone.org.
Master harmonizers the Wailin’ Jennys, made up of Nicky Mehta, Ruth Moody and Heather Masse, have been performing together for more than 15 years. Following their 2017 album, “Fifteen,” the group has been recording new music for an upcoming album. Expect to hear some of their new tunes.
International Festival of Raleigh (canceled)
The details: Originally scheduled March 6-8, Jim Graham Building and Exposition Center, NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh. Ticket info at internationalfocus.org/festival.
Culture vultures, this one’s for you. Go global in your own backyard for this three-day International Fest, now in its 34th year, feting culture, cuisine and arts from 50-plus international groups. Learn about their heritage via art, music, dance, food and more.
‘A Rodgers & Hammerstein Celebration’
The details: March 6-7, Meymandi Concert Hall, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. Ticket info at ncsymphony.org.
If you’ve seen “The Sound of Music,” “The King and I” and “South Pacific” and have those catchy tunes stuck in your head for days, you can thank the legendary Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II. Oscar “Andy” Hammerstein III is Hammerstein’s grandson, and he has been the keeper of his family’s history. He will be on stage as some of his grandfather’s hits are performed.
‘You Have to Start a Thing’
The details: Opening March 6. North Carolina Museum of History, 5 E. Edenton St., Raleigh. Free. ncmuseumofhistory.org
This unique exhibit celebrates the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment – and a century of voting rights for women – by focusing on the struggle for suffrage in North Carolina. Original historical research unveils the names and stories of many of the women, and men, who fought for the cause in the years leading up to 1920.
North Carolina to the World
The details: March 7 through July 26. N.C. Museum of Art, 2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh. Ticket info at ncartmuseum.org.
Consider this a choose-your-own-adventure way to experience art. The museum will showcase five different exhibits over five months, opening in two phases. Patrons can buy a 3-for-1 ticket or a 5-for-1 ticket. From March 7 to July 26, check out contemporary art with “Front Burner: Highlights in Contemporary North Carolina Painting”; “Christopher Holt: Contemporary Frescoes/Faith and Community” (from Asheville artist Holt); and “Art in Translation: Araya Rasdjarmrearnsook” (video art).
From April 4 to July 5, two more exhibits are added. “Good as Gold: Fashioning Senegalese Women” is “the first major exhibition of Senegalese gold jewelry” that focuses on the country’s history of gold, according to the museum. Meanwhile, “Leonardo Drew” will showcase his work inside and outside the museum, including a major outdoor sculpture.
Rising Stars
The details: March 7, Jones Auditorium, Meredith College. Ticket info at raleighsymphony.org.
For 20 years, the Raleigh Symphony Orchestra has put a spotlight on emerging talent. This season, the concert will kick off the celebration of Beethoven’s 250th anniversary with “King Stephen Overture.” Thandolwethu Mamba, a talented music student at Duke University, is the Symphony’s 2020 Rising Star, and he’ll sing alongside Gustav Mahler’s “Songs of a Wayfarer.”
BrickUniverse Lego Fan Convention
The details: March 7-8, Raleigh Convention Center, 500 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh. Ticket info at brickuniverse.com/raleigh.
You don’t have to be a kid to love the Lego convention, where imagination runs wild. There are elaborate Lego sculptures of all kinds, including cityscapes and several inspired by Star Wars. Think Baby Yoda, plus a Star Wars Zone with building tables and photo opportunities with Star Wars characters. Lego artists will be on site to talk about their structures, and there will lots of Legos to create your own masterpiece.
Sebastian Maniscalco
The details: March 7-8, Durham Performing Arts Center, 123 Vivian St., Durham. Ticket info at dpacnc.com.
Billboard’s 2018 Comedian of the Year has had a remarkable run to the top of the comedy world. Maniscalco started out doing open-mics while working as a waiter in L.A. Now he sells out the top theater venues in the country. His manic and energetic style plays well to big crowds, and the man clearly has bottomless reserves of energy.
Raleigh Fine Art Society’s North Carolina Artists Exhibition
The details: March 8-June 14, CAM Raleigh, 409 W. Martin St., Raleigh. camraleigh.org
Last fall, the Fine Arts Society put out its annual call for art from thousands of artists and hundreds of galleries across the state. The call was heard, with almost 700 artists entering works to be judged. The result is a collection from 60 of those artists that’s “committed to speaking truth to the era in which we live,” said Nat Trotman, this year’s juror and the Curator of Performance and Media at the Guggenheim Museum in New York. The artists’ work will be sold during the span of the exhibit.
‘In My Life’ — A Musical Theatre Tribute to the Beatles
The details: March 9, Fletcher Opera Theater, Raleigh. dukeenergycenterraleigh.com
This tribute show brings out The Beatles’ greatest hits – 33 of them – backed by a multimedia extravaganza of videos and images to accompany those indelible tunes.
‘Les Misérables’
The details: March 10-14, DPAC, Durham. Ticket info at dpacnc.com.
This touring production of the Tony Award-winning classic follows the recent revival on Broadway and should be a genuine treat for even casual theater nerds. Based on the Victor Hugo novel, the musical tells the story of a French peasant in 19th century France with Big Themes of redemption, revolution and the power of love. Good songs, we hear.
Billie Eilish
The details: March 12, PNC Arena, Raleigh. Ticket info at pncarena.com.
There are few bigger names in music right now than Billie Eilish. The 18-year-old just had a historic run at the Grammy Awards, taking home five awards, including the Big 4: best song (the ubiquitous “Bad Guy”), album, record and new artist. For a followup, she released the theme song for the forthcoming James Bond flick. (Not too shabby.) And for her victory lap, she’s taking her act on tour to some of the country’s biggest venues, including Raleigh’s PNC Arena. The “Where Do We Go?” World Tour has Raleigh as its third stop.
Rapsody
The details: March 13, Lincoln Theatre, 126 E. Cabarrus St., Raleigh. Ticket info at lincolntheatre.com.
Rapsody’s latest album, “Eve,” has earned much critical acclaim, thanks to the North Carolina native’s inspirational tributes to black women who have inspired her. The Grammy-nominated rapper is now on the road with her “A Black Woman Created This” tour, which will wrap up in her hometown of Raleigh. One reviewer describes the concert as “a sermon, a lecture, a party and a late-night heart-to-heart with close friends.”
St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Wearin’ ’O the Green Festival (canceled)
The details: Originally scheduled March 14, Downtown Raleigh. Free. raleighstpats.org
Break out your kilt and get your green on for this daylong St. Paddy’s party. Irish eyes are smiling indeed for this annual DTR takeover celebrating Irish and Celtic culture. The daylong event features a parade and festival with bagpipes (obviously), dancers, musicians and more. Live music and performances follow at the Shamrock ’n’ Roll Stage at City Plaza and the Courthouse Steps Stage.
‘Haunting of Night Vale’ (postponed, date TBA)
The details: March 16, Carolina Theatre, 309 W. Morgan St., Durham. Ticket info at carolinatheatre.org.
If you’re looking for a new kind of entertainment experience, consider this live version of the acclaimed podcast “Welcome to Night Vale” – kind of a cross between “Prairie Home Companion” and “The Twilight Zone.” These staged podcast events have been a surprise success in recent years and represent an emerging 21st century brand of storytelling.
‘Home’
The details: March 19-20, Memorial Hall, 114 E. Cameron Ave., Chapel Hill. Ticket info at carolinaperformingarts.org.
Those in the market for a different kind of theater experience may want to check out this offering from UNC’s Carolina Performing Arts. Using a mix of stagecraft, art design, movement and music, performers conjure a home on the stage: “Residents move in, move out, get evicted, burn it down, loot it, rent it, remodel it, get married, get divorced, age, die in it and haunt it.”
Art in Bloom (canceled)
The details: Originally scheduled March 19-22, North Carolina Museum of Art. Ticket info at ncartmuseum.org.
A four-day festival of art and flowers, the Art in Bloom event has long been a springtime tradition for Raleigh flower-lovers desperate for winter to end. Gigantic floral arrangements and installations are scattered around the museum, and you can sign up for all kinds of demonstrations, presentations and workshops. Advance tickets required for some events.
Michael Bublé (postponed, date TBA)
The details: Originally scheduled March 20. New date TBD. PNC Arena, Raleigh. Ticket info at pncarena.com.
If anyone can make the PNC Arena feel like an intimate performance space, it might be Michael Bublé. The crooner is back on the road with a new album and a new tour, following a hiatus to care for his son who had cancer. Backed by a 36-piece orchestra, Bublé will showcase his smooth vocals on vintage hits like “Feeling Good” and “Fly Me to the Moon” as well as his own classics, like “Home” and “Haven’t Met You Yet.”
‘The Color Purple’
The details: March 20-22, DPAC, Durham. Ticket info at dpacnc.com.
The Tony Award-winning production, based on the novel and film, is a coming-of-age story set in the South about a young woman named Celie. Celie’s life isn’t easy, but jazz, gospel, ragtime and blues helps provide a buoyant backdrop to her troubles.
Dom Flemons
The details: March 20, Arts Center, 300-G E. Main St. Carrboro. Ticket info at artscenterlive.org.
Flemons, one of the founding members of the Grammy-winning Carolina Chocolate Drops, is a man of all instruments: banjo, fife, guitar, harmonica, jug, percussion, quills and rhythm bones, according to his website. He’s also quite a music historian, so here’s hoping he shares some interesting stories in-between songs during his Arts Center debut.
‘Revolutionary AKA The Civil Rights Project’
The details: March 21, Baldwin Auditorium at Duke University, Durham. Ticket info at dukeperformances.duke.edu.
Get ready to hear Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come” in a whole new way. The Imani Winds wind quintet is putting their own spin on the classic as part of a program that explores activism through music. The group is known for its diversity, both in its musicians and the music it plays, according to Duke Performances. This program also features “Sometimes,” which celebrates the late historian John Hope Franklin, and “Bruits,” a take on race relations and gun violence.
Winter Jam (canceled)
The details: March 22, 6 p.m. PNC Arena, Raleigh. Ticket info at pncarena.com.
Fifteen bucks for an arena tour is pretty unheard of these days. But the Winter Jam isn’t like most tours. It’s a concert with diverse acts, including many chart-topping Christian acts, and a worship service. Tickets are bought at the door with a suggested donation of $15. This year’s lineup features Grammy-nominated Crowder, tour hosts NewSong, Building 429, RED, Austin French and Andy Mineo.
Beethoven is Knocking
The details: March 22, Carolina Theatre, Durham. Ticket info at chamberorchestraofthetriangle.org.
The Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle performs Beethoven’s 5th Symphony for the first time in the group’s history. The piece, described as the composer’s “eternal masterwork,” is “the ultimate statement in music,” according to the group’s website. Piano soloist Enrique Graf will perform Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 18.
‘Memphis’
The details: March 24-29, Memorial Auditorium, Raleigh. Ticket info at nctheatre.com.
The musical, presented by North Carolina Theatre, is loosely based on the true story of a radio DJ, who is white, and what happens when he starts playing music by black artists in Memphis in the 1950s. Among the high-energy numbers, there’s a love story, too, between the DJ and a club singer, who is black. The production won a slew of awards, including the Tony for Best Musical, and was a Broadway mainstay for several years.
American Ballet Theatre’s ‘Giselle’ (Canceled)
The details: March 26-29, DPAC, Durham. Ticket info at dpacnc.com
The American Ballet Theatre is coming to North Carolina for the first time in 50 years to present this “tale of unrequited love.” The visit – which includes five performances over four days – is a result of a multi-year partnership with Duke Performances. Misty Copeland, the company’s first African-American female principal dancer, will dance March 26, a performance that, not surprisingly, is sold out. (Copeland also will talk with Durham Public Schools students after a free performance of “Giselle.”) Tickets remain for the four other performances.
Barons of Broadway
The details: March 29, Meymandi Concert Hall, Raleigh Ticket info at ncmasterchorale.org.
The North Carolina Master Chorale performs some of theater’s greatest hits, including songs from “Camelot,” “My Fair Lady,” “Phantom of the Opera” and “Cats.”
Mandy Moore
The details: March 30, DPAC, Durham. Ticket info at dpacnc.com.
Mandy Moore is a triple threat: she acts, she sings, she writes songs. While she may have come into popularity in an era of bubble-gum pop, her current vibe is far from that. The Emmy-nominated star of “This is Us” imbues her music with heartfelt lyrics. She credits working with her husband, Taylor Goldsmith of the folk-rock band Dawes, for helping her craft her sound.
APRIL
Full Frame Documentary Film Festival (canceled)
The details: Originally scheduled April 2-5, Carolina Theatre and other venues, Durham. Schedule and ticket info at fullframefest.org.
The world-famous annual documentary film fest is back. Get your film on over four days of morning-to-midnight viewings of nearly 100 films, plus discussions, panels, music and more. The Bull City rolls out the red carpet and Southern hospitality for big-screen buffs from around the world to foster community and conversation across its intimate landscape (all set within a few city blocks).
Flutronix presents ‘Discourse’
The details: April 2-3, Current Artspace + Studio, 123 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill. Ticket info at carolinaperformingarts.org.
This flute and electronics duo created this piece during a residency with Carolina Performing Arts. The genesis of the piece came “in response to the fear, uncertainty, and frustration dividing the United States,” according to press notes. The piece includes stories and voices from people who live in Chapel Hill.
‘The Magic Flute’
The details: April 3 and 5. Memorial Auditorium, Raleigh. Ticket info at ncopera.org.
The North Carolina Opera, which is celebrating its 10th year, presents the Mozart classic. It’s a story about an epic journey, one with tests and obstacles to overcome on the way to an equally epic rescue. A story of love is accompanied by one very special flute and a very funny bird catcher. Sung in German with spoken English dialogue and projected English text.
‘De Aqui Y De Alla’
The details: April 3-June 6, VAE gallery, 309 W. Martin St., Raleigh. Free. vaeraleigh.org
VAE, the nonprofit arts organization celebrating 40 years, explores the identity struggles experienced by Latinx people. The exhibit, translated as “of here and there,” showcases contemporary art from Latinx artists who “use their unique identity to combat this lack of acceptance and carve out space for themselves both here, and there,” according to the VAE website.
Dreamville Festival (postponed to Aug. 29)
The details: April 4, Dorothea Dix Park, 2105 Umstead Drive, Raleigh. Ticket info at dreamvillefest.com.
After a dreamy inaugural year that saw over 40,000 attendees, the one-day outdoor music fest is back for its second year at Dix Park. Presented by Grammy-nominated rapper J. Cole, who grew up in North Carolina, the 2020 #DreamvilleFest features benevolent beats, with acts from rap, hip-hop and R&B genres. A lineup has not been announced yet but if last year is any indication, it likely will feature Cole and artists from his Dreamville label. A portion of the proceeds benefits Cole’s Dreamville Foundation and the Dix Park Conservancy.
Durham Bulls Opening Day
The details: April 9, 6:35 p.m., Durham Bulls Athletic Park, 409 Blackwell St., Durham. Ticket info at milb.com/durham.
The return of baseball to downtown Durham is one of the area’s indisputable rites of spring. Opening Day is typically a crowded event – get tickets in advance – but the season-opening homestand runs for a full week, with three games each against the Charlotte Knights and the Gwinnett Stripers. Durham Bulls Athletic Park is one of the best minor league baseball facilities in America. There really are no bad seats.
‘A Raisin in the Sun’
The details: April 10-26, Sutton Theatre, 301 Pogue St., Raleigh. Ticket info at raleighlittletheatre.org.
Raleigh Little Theatre has been a civic institution since 1936 and consistently delivers a thoughtful and intimate theater experience. “A Raisin in the Sun” tells the story of a black family as they attempt to live the American dream in 1950s Chicago. Since its Broadway debut in 1959, the play has since become a cherished American classic.
‘Macbeth’
The details: April 16-19, Raleigh Memorial Auditorium. Ticket info at carolinaballet.com.
One of Shakespeare’s most renowned works is still relevant – a story of intrigue, political ambition and power. This rendition is choreographed by Carolina Ballet founding artistic director Robert Weiss with musical accompaniment by the Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle.
Art2Wear
The details: April 17. Location to be announced. Ticket info at design.ncsu.edu/art2wear.
This fashion show is entirely executed by students in the College of Design at NC State University. The garments are creative, the show itself an extravaganza. If you want to see the future of fashion, this is the place.
‘Speak’
The details: April 17-18, Titmus Theatre at Frank Thompson Hall on the NC State campus, Raleigh. Ticket info at live.arts.ncsu.edu.
This piece from four female choreographers, including Chapel Hill native Michelle Dorrance, aims to show that there are more similarities than differences across dance genres. “Speak” mixes Kathak, a form of Indian classical dance, with American tap dance. Not only does the production mash up dance, but the music is a mix of Indian classical musicians and a jazz combo. The artists will speak with audiences after the performances.
‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’
The details: April 17-May 3, Theatre in the Park, 107 Pullen Road, Raleigh. Ticket info at theatreinthepark.com.
It’s nerve-wracking to meet the parents under most circumstances. In 1967, a mixed-race couple finds having their families meet each other fraught with major complications.
Cuegrass Festival
The details: April 18, Warehouse District, Raleigh. Ticket info at cuegrass.com.
Queue up a good time at this 12th annual brews, blues and barbecue festival. Add some beer to your barbecue this year with the addition of a Beer Garden. A new ticketed component will offer access inside the main entrance for those who want a larger, more comfy spot to enjoy the fave fest, featuring beer-garden-only drafts and drinks, a dedicated food buffet, shade (hello!) and a stage for live tunes. The perennial experience put on by The Pit will otherwise take over the Warehouse District to benefit several organizations supporting children in the community, including the BackPack Buddies program. Cuegrass also supports local Cub Scout Pack 325 and food insecurity programs at Ligon Elementary.
Brewgaloo
The details: April 24-25, Downtown Raleigh. Tickets info at shoplocalraleigh.org/brewgaloo.
Y’all. Brewgaloo 2020 is gonna be lit. There’s the Friday night Block Party with samples of barrel-aged and sour beers. There’s the Saturday Street Fest with 110-plus North Carolina breweries by the glass or taste. And there’s food trucks, live music, local vendors and thousands of your closest friends for the state’s largest craft beer fest — voted No. 1 Best Beer Festival in 2019 by USA Today. Tickets not required for designated drivers.
‘Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back’
The details: April 24-26. Meymandi Concert Hall, Raleigh. Ticket info at ncsymphony.org.
Sure, the new “Star Wars” films are epic and amazing. But nothing beats the original films, especially when they’re on the big screen and have a live orchestra playing the score to accompany them. The N.C. Symphony will dive into the second movie of the trilogy with a live John Williams score. (Pro tip: See/hear “Return of the Jedi” in the North Carolina Symphony’s 2020-21 season.)
The Bachelor Live on Stage
The details: April 25, 8 p.m. DPAC, Durham. Ticket info at dpacnc.com.
First, let’s get this out of the way. Will you be going to this show for the right reasons? More importantly, are you ready for the most dramatic night ever? Ben Higgins, a former Bachelor, and Becca Kufrin, a former Bachelorette, each had their respective journeys to find love on the reality show. Now, they’re drawing upon their experiences as hosts of this traveling show to help a local Bachelor find romance. The audience will offer input as a final rose begs to be handed out.
Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festival
The details: April 25, Fred G. Bond Metro Park and Boathouse, 801 High House Road, Cary. Free. townofcary.org
Spread across 310 acres of urban park, the annual #CarySpringDaze fest, nestled under the shady canopy of Bond Park, showcases the best of the state’s diverse arts and crafts community with 170-plus artists, entertainment across four stages, delish food and its famed Earth Day Celebration.
Brittany Howard
The details: April 26, North Carolina Museum of Art’s Museum Park, Raleigh. Ticket info at ncartmuseum.org.
The North Carolina Museum of Art’s outdoor concert series continues to book top-notch acts every summer. With Howard, the frontwoman of the Alabama Shakes, the first act announced this season, the lineup should not disappoint. Howard has struck out on her own, with her solo debut, “Jaime,” nabbing two Grammy nominations.
‘Escape to Margaritaville’
The details: April 28-May 2, DPAC, Durham. Ticket info at dpacnc.com.
Is this the season of Jimmy Buffett? Just 10 days after Buffett himself performs at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek (April 18), the touring Broadway musical of his hits comes to Durham. The musical comedy features “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” “Fins” and every song even a casual fan will want to dance to. (Margaritas not included.)
An Intimate Evening with David Foster
The details: April 28, 8 p.m. Memorial Auditorium, Raleigh. Ticket info at dukeenergycenterraleigh.com.
Celine Dion. Whitney Houston. Josh Groban. If you don’t know producer, arranger and songwriter David Foster by name, you likely have heard hits from those singers, including Dion’s “Because You Loved Me” and Houston’s “I Will Always Love You.” This concert, a stop on the Hitman tour, will feature the prolific Grammy winner playing those songs from the past four decades, and sharing the stories behind them. He’ll be accompanied by actress and singer Katharine McPhee, who happens to be his wife.
Of Monsters and Men
The details: April 29, Red Hat Amphitheater, 500 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh. Ticket info at redhatamphitheater.com.
The Icelandic band, known for their anthemic, soaring songs, will kick off the U.S. leg of their Fever Dream Tour in Raleigh before heading to festivals around the country.
MAY
Chatham Rabbits
The details: May 1, Carolina Theatre, Durham. Ticket info at carolinatheatre.org.
Local act Chatham Rabbits have been on the rise since their debut CD was released in January 2019. The husband-and-wife duo of Austin and Sarah McCombie are back with a followup – “The Yoke is Easy, The Burden is Full.” The album is described as “stories of real, raw people, doing the best they can with the life they are living.” This concert will double as an album release celebration.
Meet in the Street Festival
The details: May 2, Downtown Wake Forest. Free. wakeforestchamber.org
Meet in the Street, the ultimate neighborhood meetup, has brought the community together in downtown Wake Forest for almost 40 years of food, fun, vendors, arts and crafts, live music and more. If you have a 9-to-14-year-old, don’t miss the Young Entrepreneurs Fair, where they can entrepreneur like a boss by creating handmade items and selling them alongside the professional artisans.
Apex PeakFest
The details: May 2, Salem Street, Downtown Apex. Free. apexpeakfest.com
What began as a small community day in a school parking lot 40 years ago has become one of Apex’s main events, with more than 22,000 attendees taking over Salem Street. The daylong arts and crafts fest brings the community together to fete family, food, fellowship and fun — featuring, for starters, live music, jewelry, pottery, acrylics, watercolors, kids’ entertainment and fair-type fare.
Thrive NC
The details: May 7-8, City Market, Raleigh. Ticket info at gothrivenc.com.
Fifty of the area’s top chefs and restaurants, including James Beard-winning Ashley Christensen, join together to fete North Carolina’s impressive (and delicious) culinary roots. Come with an empty stomach, as Thrive offers unlimited sampling of their top-notch eats and craft brews, all to benefit organizations committed to improving food security. Christensen will be part of the demonstration stage.
Shakori Hills GrassRoots Festival of Music & Dance
The details: May 7-10, Pittsboro. Ticket info at shakorihillsgrassroots.org.
The bi-annual multi-day music festival is back with headliners Del McCoury Band, Rising Appalachia and Keller Williams along with dozens of other acts from a range of genres. Make a weekend of it and reserve a camping spot.
Chris Botti
The details: May 7, Carolina Theatre, Durham. Ticket info at carolinatheatre.org.
The prolific saxophonist, with numerous No. 1 jazz albums and two Grammy Awards to his name, brings his tour to Durham.
Longleaf Film Festival
The details: May 8-9, North Carolina Museum of History, 5 E. Edenton St., Raleigh. Ticket info at longleaffilmfestival.com.
Now in its sixth season, the Longleaf Film Festival will screen about 50 short films and features, selected by a panel of judges, with an eye toward state and regional filmmakers. The films cover a wide array of topics and genres, both documentary and narrative. While some may have adult themes, all are typically in the PG-13 range. Free popcorn, too.
‘Baby Shark Live!’
The details: May 9, DPAC, Durham. Ticket info at dpacnc.com.
We apologize in advance for triggering the “Baby Shark” earworm at the mere mention of this live production. But for those who know little ones in love with “Baby Shark,” this is the perfect opportunity to be named Best Grownup Ever. Or, you might just go to see how a 2-minute YouTube phenomenon has morphed into an 80-minute extravaganza with singing and dancing. You’ll be happy to know it’s not 80 minutes of That Song being played over and over, but a playlist that also includes “Wheels on the Bus” and “Jungle Boogie.”
Gala Concert with Renée Fleming & Branford Marsalis
The details: May 9, 7 p.m. Meymandi Concert Hall, Raleigh. Ticket info at ncsymphony.org.
As the North Carolina Symphony’s longtime music director Grant Llewellyn prepares to transition to his new role of Music Director Laureate, two of the music world’s biggest stars will toast his tenure. Famed soprano Renée Fleming, a recipient of the National Medal of Arts, will be joined by Branford Marsalis, the Grammy-winning jazz saxophonist from Durham. Llewellyn will conduct.
‘Cinderella’
The details: May 14-17, Raleigh Memorial Auditorium, Raleigh. Ticket info at carolinaballet.com.
The classic tale of love and a Very Special Glass Slipper is brought to life by the Carolina Ballet to close out the season.
‘The Rite of Spring’
The details: May 15-16, Meymandi Concert Hall, Raleigh. Ticket information at ncsymphony.org.
The North Carolina Symphony’s director Grant Llewellyn has led the symphony for 16 years. While he is scheduled to return twice next season in his new role, this is his last hurrah. And he’ll go out celebrating the season and rebirth with Wagner’s “Prelude from Parsifal,” Debussy’s “Jeux” and Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring.” The Symphony describes “Jeux” as “utterly elegant” while ending the program with “Rite” will be “earth-shattering.”
Got to Be NC Festival
The details: May 15-17, NC State Fairgrounds, 1025 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh. Gate admission and parking are free. gottobencfestival.com
For three days in May it’s got to be the Got to Be NC Festival, where you and the fam or the crew or boo can dig on some down-home fun. There’s the quintessential parade, carnival rides, food, music and more, of course, but don’t miss a few fave main attractions. Think the Carolina Bluegrass Battle. Or the 15th annual Carolina Pig Jig, the famed all-you-can-eat barbecue cookoff where a “people’s choice” ticket gets you voting power. (May 16, 11 a.m. till the barbecue is gone.) And be sure to check out the Marketplace for samplings (and sales) of North Carolina-made food, beer and wine and some of the most delish flavors the state has to offer. Nom nom.
Artsplosure
The details: May 16-17, Downtown Raleigh. Free. artsplosure.org
This national “Top 50 Fine Art and Design Show” returns with the two-day juggernaut that takes over downtown. The juried Art Market and festival features over 170 state and national visual arts and crafts exhibitors, large-scale interactive visual art installations, aerialists and musical performances. Kidsplosure, with interactive educational activities and entertainment, is another highlight of the family friendly event.
Animazement
The details: May 22-24, Raleigh Convention Center, 500 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh. Ticket info at animazement.com.
“Animeniacs” descend on downtown Raleigh for this premier Japanese animation and culture convention. Read: three days of live music, cosplay events, game rooms, karaoke, panels, artwork, merch and much more. New in 2020 is the option for single-day tickets for Friday and Saturday.
Summerfest Opening Night
The details: May 23, Booth Amphitheatre, 8003 Regency Parkway, Cary. Ticket info at ncsymphony.org.
When the North Carolina Symphony starts playing at Cary’s Booth Amphitheatre, it’s like summer has officially begun. This concert kicks off the annual outdoor concert series that features the classics (Mozart and Beethoven) as well as music from pop culture (Star Wars, Phantom of the Opera and movie soundtracks). This year’s Summerfest also includes a show with Bruce Hornsby (June 20) and the annual Independence Day concert, complete with fireworks.
Ozuna
The details: May 24, PNC Arena, Raleigh. Ticket info at pncarena.com.
Ozuna is one of the biggest reggaeton stars in the world, with the nickname the “New King of Reggaeton” to back it up. He has sold 15 million records, earned millions more YouTube views and racked up countless awards. From Billboard to Latin Grammy Awards, perhaps no award is more indicative of his explosive success than his Guinness World Records. Those video views? He holds the record for the “Artist with the Most Videos to Reach 1 billion views on YouTube” as well as the male artist to spend the most weeks at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Latin Albums Chart (“Odisea” at 46 weeks). In other words, it’s a big deal that the Puerto Rican singer has decided to come to North Carolina on the U.S. leg of his Nibiru World Tour.
Bela Fleck & The Flecktones
The details: May 29, Carolina Theatre, Durham. Ticket info at carolinatheatre.org.
The renowned banjoist is no stranger to the Triangle, having performed in the area several times, including at the International Bluegrass Music Association’s World of Bluegrass in 2017. He’ll be in Durham with the appropriately named band, the Flecktones, to celebrate more than three decades of performing together. Their music includes “classical and jazz to bluegrass and African music to electric blues and Eastern European folk dances,” according to the group’s website. The Flecktones include harmonica and keyboardist Howard Levy, bassist Victor Wooten and percussionist Roy “Future Man” Wooten.
Out! Raleigh Pride 2020
The details: May 30, Downtown Raleigh. Free. outraleighpride.org
Come one, come all to fete the 10th anniversary of the daylong festival that celebrates inclusivity. There will be plenty of entertainment, vendors, artists, food and more. Organizers say last year’s event drew 66,000. Proceeds go to the LGBT Center of Raleigh’s programs.
JUNE
The Lumineers
The details: June 2, Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, 3801 Rock Quarry Road, Raleigh. Ticket info at livenation.com.
The Lumineers are best seen live, thanks to sing-along hits like “Ho Hey” and “Ophelia.” But while those songs are upbeat, the music on the latest release, “III,” gets pretty serious about substance abuse. Their live show is accompanied by “uncomfortably realistic short films” on video screens, IndyStar reports, that drive home their message about addiction struggles.
‘Fun Home’
The details: June 3-14, Kennedy Theatre, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. Ticket info at theatreraleigh.com.
This coming-of-age story, based on Alison Bechdel’s graphic memoir, was a hit on Broadway, winning the Tony Award for Best Musical. It follows Alison in different parts of her life as she grapples with her sexuality and questions about her parents.
Primus
The details: June 7, Red Hat Amphitheater, 500 S. McDowell St., Raleigh. Ticket info at redhatamphitheater.com.
Primus has a massive catalog that could easily fill up setlists for days. But for this show, they’re presenting music from another band. They’ll bring “A Tribute to Kings” to the stage, with the trio playing Rush’s 1977 album, “A Farewell to Kings,” in its entirety. Primus and Rush have toured together in the past, and Primus’ Les Claypool describes this as a “respectful and loving tribute” to their friends and musical heroes.
Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit
The details: June 8-9, DPAC, Durham. Ticket info at dpacnc.com.
Isbell frequently visits North Carolina during the summer touring season. But it’s not often he books a double-header. (He did back-to-back shows at DPAC in 2018.) This 2020 visit will come a few weeks after he releases his newest album, “Reunions,” on May 15, described as “songs that delve into relationships with lovers, friends, children, parents, and one’s self.”
This story was originally published February 26, 2020 at 6:00 AM.