Open Doors: The Valley Arts and Culture Scene Is Blooming
It’s time to take another peek into the Frontdoors Arts & Culture Calendar and reserve some dates and tickets before I blink and miss it. The next few months are filled with classics, new works, tons of Broadway shows and so many grandparent-approved things to do. I hope to see you out and about!
FEBRUARY
Feb. 16–23: Arizona Musicfest will present its Festival Orchestra Week in North Scottsdale led by Maestro Robert Moody, an old friend from my days at The Phoenix Symphony. Concerts include Beethoven’s 7th, Music of La Mancha and Mussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition” as well as a special salute to John Williams and a collaboration concert with the Phoenix Theatre Company. azmusicfest.org
Feb. 28–March 1: Head to East Street, where the annual Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival is celebrating 25 years. I’m told to expect more than 165 artist booths filled with something for everyone — sculptures, pottery, photography, one-of-a-kind jewelry, stained glass, paintings and mixed-media art in all forms. The event is paired with wine tastings, delicious chocolates and live music … I am so in. thunderbirdartists.com
MARCH
March 7: Broadway legend and Tony Award winner Bernadette Peters is coming to Chandler Center for the Arts to dazzle us with iconic numbers from stage and film. I’m hoping to hear a little “Hello, Dolly!” chandlercenter.org
Have you tried glamping? The Cozy Peach at Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek now offers 10 different trailers and Airstreams for a quaint weekend adventure and a taste of life on the farm. Ladies, who’s in for a weekend retreat? schnepffarms.com
APRIL
April 19: The always impressive young musicians of Rosie’s House will be presenting their annual Great Performers Showcase at the historic Memorial Hall at Steele Indian School Park. The concert is free and will leave you in awe of the talent and provide a glimpse of the bright futures of kids served by this incredible program. rosieshouse.org
April 21–26: Grab your teenager (or your teen spirit) and head to ASU Gammage for “Mean Girls.” I’ve only seen the movie, so I’m curious to see what Regina George has up her sleeve as she travels to Tempe from Broadway. asugammage.com
MAY
May 16–June 6: Ballet Arizona is presenting a world premiere at Desert Botanical Garden, “The Four Seasons.” I hear it will be a sensation overload! And, don’t forget to get your reservation for pre-dinner at Gertrude’s. balletaz.org
JUNE
June 12–28: It will be time to escape the heat for air-conditioned activities, including the return of “Peter Pan” by Valley Youth Theatre, which will close the season at the Herberger Theater. vyt.com
Enjoy!
