MUSIC
Bustin’ Beats from Belfast
In preparation for the real Van the Man show tomorrow night, jam to the tunes of one of his most popular tribute bands The Belfast Cowboys. They’ll be playing all the Van Morrison greats this evening — for a fraction of his concert prices. Whether or not they’ll actually play anything off his new album is highly debatable, but let’s face it — we’re all suckers for "Moondance" and "Brown Eyed Girl" anyhow. —Kate McDonald
8 p.m., First Avenue, 701 1st Ave. N., Minneapolis; 612-332-1775; $6-$8.
THEATER
Matthew Ashford and Other Favorite Things
Apparently, someone took the expression "break a leg" a little too seriously. But even a broken leg is not enough to stop Maria — the legendary Maria — you know the one. The show much go on, and the hills are still alive with the Sound of Music, now playing at the Ordway. Come sing along to the well known tunes of one of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most popular musicals. Although this show does not feature the incomparable musical stylings of Julie Andrews, it does cast Days of Our Lives soap opera star Matthew Ashford as Captain von Trapp to make up for it. —Kate McDonald
8 p.m., Ordway Center, 345 Washington St., St. Paul; 651-224-4222; $45-$75.
PERFORMANCE
Naughty Nutcrackers Like Beyonce
The classic Nutcracker might seem like a perfectly harmless childhood fairytale: snowflakes and sugar plum fairies, parties, presents and trees. But let’s face it — bon bons, toy soldiers, cherubs, and giant phalli are all a bit on the campy side, no? Toss in a few Beyonce tunes (don’t forget the dancing wooden doll), and you’ve got a seriously naughty Nutcracker. Leave it to the Ballet of the Dolls! Their Nutcracker?! (not so) Suite features a dancing Barbie and Ken, and classic Bing Crosby show tunes that will leave you wondering… why be nice when you can be so naughty? —Kate McDonald
8 p.m., The Ritz, 345 13th Ave. N.E., Minneapolis; 612-436-1129; $15.
Leave a Reply