Observer Editor
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Events in May 2026
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Looking for live music tonight?
Visit our Nightspots listing.
May 9, 2026
“Apple Blossom Bliss”: Ann Arbor Community of Traditional Music and Dance
Observer Editor
See 8 Friday. Today: Caller Workshop (10–11 a.m.) with Gaye Fifer. Morning Contra Dance (11:00–noon) with Sam Smith calling to music by Big Fun. Lunch (noon–1:30 p.m.). Waltz Workshop (1:15–2 p.m.) with Gaye Fifer. Open Waltz (2–2:50 p.m.). Contra Dance (3–5:30 p.m.) with Sam Smith and Gaye Fifer calling to Stringrays and Big Fun. Dinner (6–7:15 p.m.). Beginner Lesson (7–7:30 p.m.). Contra Dance (7:30–10:15 p.m.) with Sam Smith and Gaye Fifer calling to Stringrays. Techno Contra (10:30–11:30 p.m.) with Jason Little calling to the DJ Collective. Followed by an After Party. Bring clean shoes for dancing. 10 a.m.–11:30 p.m. and beyond. https://aactmad.org/appleblossombliss
Annual International Migratory Bird Count: Washtenaw Bird & Nature Alliance
Observer Editor
All invited—from novices to experienced birders—to help take a census of birds in Washtenaw County. Part of a 24-hour worldwide snapshot of populations of resident and migrant birds, with groups of volunteers assigned specific areas to count. Feeder watchers also invited. All day, throughout Washtenaw County. Free. To volunteer or for more information, see washtenawbna.org.
Group Runs: Ann Arbor Running Company (AARC)
Observer Editor
Every Sat., Mon., & Thurs. (different AARC locations). Runners of all abilities invited to join a 5K mapped route (Mon. & Thurs.) or either a beginner or advanced group run (Sat.). AARC Traver Village (7 a.m. Sat.), 2621 Plymouth Rd.; Corner Brewery (6 p.m. Mon.), 720 Norris, Ypsi.; and AARC Colonnade (6 p.m. Thurs.), 901 W. Eisenhower. Free. annarborrunningcompany.com.
“Migratory Bird Day Walk”: Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission
Observer Editor
WCPARC naturalist Kelsey Dehring leads all levels of birders on a walk through a mix of habitats to discover returning warblers, waterfowl, and other species. Bring your own binoculars. 8–10 a.m., Sharon Mills County Park, north lot, 5701 Sharon Hollow Rd. Free. Preregistration required (capacity limited) at washtenaw.org/registerparks; #831009. [email protected].
parkrun USA
Observer Editor
Every Sat. All invited to join a timed but noncompetitive 5K run/walk. 8 a.m., Lillie Park South or North (depending on weather conditions, check facebook.com/lillieparkrun for location), 4365 Platt. Free, but first-timers are requested to preregister at parkrun.us/lillie and arrive at 7:45 a.m. [email protected].
World Migratory Bird Day Hike: Scio Outside
Community Listing
Join us for a guided bird hike at Van Curler Preserve in celebration of World Migratory Bird Day!
As spring arrives in the eastern U.S., millions of migratory songbirds take flight heading north to their summer breeding grounds. Along the way, they stop in our natural areas to feed on insects to fuel their flight. This is the perfect chance to see warblers, tanagers, and many more exciting species!
Birdwatchers of all ages and experiences welcome. Bring comfy walking shoes, binoculars (some extra available to share), and a camera if you would like!
There will be coffee and pastries available before and after the hike! Consider coming early to enjoy light refreshments and talk about birds.
6393 W Joy Rd ,Dexter, MI 48130. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/world-migratory-bird-day-hike-tickets-1982460079464?aff=oddtdtcreator Free. [email protected] 7344601696.“Dexter/Chelsea Saturday Morning Breakfast Ride”: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society
Observer Editor
Every Sat. Moderate-paced ride, 20 miles or more, to Dexter and beyond. Pack something to eat or stop in Dexter or Chelsea for coffee or breakfast. Note: Riders should be prepared to take care of themselves on all AABTS rides. Carry a water bottle, a spare tire or tube, a pump, a cell phone, and snacks. See aabts.org for weather cancellations or delays. 9 a.m. sharp, meet at Barton Nature Area parking lot, W. Huron River Dr. near Bird Rd. Free. (734) 649–9762, [email protected].
49th Annual Allbreed Cat Show: Anthony Wayne Cat Fanciers
Observer Editor
Hundreds of beautiful cats, ranging from local house pets to exotic and rare purebreds representing over 25 breeds, compete for awards or regional and national Cat Fanciers’ Association points. Also, a chance for attendees to vote for the best cat and kitten. 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Washtenaw Community College Towsley Auditorium (Morris Lawrence Bldg.), 4800 E. Huron River Dr. Spectators $10 (students & seniors, $8; kids age 6 & under, free; families, $25) at the door only. cfa.org/event/anthony-wayne-cat-fanciers-2, [email protected].
Plant Sale & Makers Market: Green Things Farm Collective
2026 Plant Sale: Project Grow Community Gardens Benefit
Observer Editor
Sale of hard-to-find heirloom plants, including over 70 varieties of tomatoes, sweet & spicy peppers, and ornamentals like dahlias, lisianthus (gentians), native asclepias (milkweed), and sweet peas. Also, a seed share. Bring your own flats. 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Dawn Farm, 6633 Stony Creek Rd., Ypsi. Free admission; $4 per plant, checks or exact cash only. projectgrowgardens.org.
Museum Day: Waterloo Farm Museum
Observer Editor
All invited to tour Waterloo Farm, with its 10-room 19th-century farmhouse, log cabin, forge, and outbuildings. Also, the Dewey School Museum is open. Docents are on hand to answer questions. Hands-on crafts and games for kids, demos. Live music TBA. Concessions. Part of a larger event with free admission at several Jackson-area museums. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., 13493 Waterloo-Munith Rd., Chelsea. Free. (804) 596–2254, waterloofarmmuseum.org.
Chime Concert: Kerrytown Market & Shops
Observer Editor
Every Fri., Sat., & Wed. All invited to play one of 200 songs, with melodies transcribed in numbers, on the 17-bell chime’s numbered keys. Ambitious players can add chords. Kids welcome. Noon–12:30 p.m. (Fri. & Wed.) & 10:30–11 a.m. (Sat.). Free. [email protected].
“Investigate Labs”: U-M Museum of Natural History
Observer Editor
Every Tues.–Sun. All age 6 & up invited into the museum’s labs to use scientific tools and museum specimens to answer questions and solve problems. The newest program examines how Michigan animals get along with each other—or don’t. 11 a.m.–3 p.m., 1105 North University. Free. (734) 764–0478, ummnh.org.
Ford Family Series: Justin Roberts: The Ark
Community Listing
“He has a remarkable ability to see through a child’s eyes… the Judy Blume of kiddie rock.” –New York Times
Five-time Grammy® nominated children’s musician Justin Roberts has been creating the soundtrack to families’ lives for 25 years. Now, with his 16th full length album, Space Cadet, Justin’s rock journey goes interstellar with feel-good songs rooted in themes of inclusion, acceptance, and self-discovery. Inspired by his life as a new dad and experiences in isolation, Space Cadet offers feel-good fun for the whole family. Justin has been praised by the New York Times for his “remarkable ability to see through a child’s eyes…,” and is known for writing meaningful songs that acknowledge kids’ emotional depth while still letting the fun shine through. In concert, kids and adults dance it out with Justin and his incredibly talented band, the Not Ready for Naptime Players, all while exploring what it means to be yourself and embrace what makes you unique.
Justin is the author of multiple children’s books and is available for author appearances and assemblies. The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade, illustrated by Christian Robinson, is the story of how one person can make a difference and was inspired by his beloved song, “Billy the Bully.” In The Great Henry Hopendower, a young boy remembers his much-loved grandpa and his newest book, I’ll Be Your Polar Bear, is a heartwarming story about the lengths a father will go to comfort and protect his child.
Presented with support from Ford Philanthropy
316 S. Main St ,Ann Arbor. https://mutotix.umich.edu/6457 $24 adults; $18.50 kids 12 and under. [email protected] https://theark.org/event/justin-roberts-260509/ 734-761-1800.Marker Dedication for American Revolutionary Veteran Timothy Crittenden: DAR and SAR
Community Listing
DAR and SAR Chapters in Washtenaw County, MI will be conducting a Patriot Marker ceremony honoring Timothy Crittenden. Crittenden was born in Guilford, CT. During the Revolutionary War, he served as an Orderly Sergeant under Captain Oliver Belden in the regiment of Colonel David Rossiter of Berkshire County, Massachusetts militia. He also served as a Musician under Captain Simon Smith and Major Cady. This event is driven by the American 250 recognizing the men and women who secured our nation's independence. Patriot Timothy Crittenden will join others in Washenaw County who have had a plaque installed to recognize their sacrifice. The dedication has a meaningful blend of local and state participation. Descendants are welcome and encouraged to attend. If you can't attend and are a descendant please feel free to share your connection to this soldier. Date: May 9, 2026 at 11:00am Where: Oakhill Cemetery, 11365 Macon Road, Saline, MI.
Oakhill Cemetery, 11365 Macon Road ,Saline Township, Saline, MI. free. [email protected] sca-dar.org 734-646-1425.Michigan Sailing Club Open House: Michigan Sailing Club
Community Listing
The Michigan Sailing Club is holding an Open House for prospective new members! Stop by and check out the Club and our fleet (including sailboats, sailboards, kayaks, SUPs), meet current members, and learn how to start your sailing journey! Saturday, May 9 11AM-1PM and Sunday, May 17 1PM-3PM
8010 Strawberry Lake Road ,Dexter. Free. [email protected] https://michigansailingclub.org/ 734 709 8430.National Learn to Row Day: Ann Arbor Rowing Club
Observer Editor
Ann Arbor Rowing Club and U-M men’s rowing team members invite all age 14 & up to learn the basics of rowing in an 8-person rowing shell. Parent or guardian must accompany participants under age 18. 11 a.m.–1 p.m. (arrive by noon), Bandemer Park, 1352 Lake Shore Dr. Free. a2crew.com.
Spring Clock Auction: Schmidt’s Antiques
Observer Editor
Auction of over 250 lots of antique clocks and watches from 7 states includes American and European clocks, chiming hall clocks, Vienna regulators, American calendar clocks, pocket watches, and more. Refreshments. Preview May 5-8, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. In-person, online, and phone bidding allowed. 11 a.m., Schmidt’s, 5138 W.Michigan Ave., Ypsi. [email protected], schmidtsantiques.com.
Spring Plant Sales: U-M Matthaei Botanical Gardens
Observer Editor
May 9 & 10, 16 & 17, 30 & 31. Includes a “Mother’s Day Weekend Plant Sale” (May 9 & 10) of hanging baskets and container plants grown and designed by Matthaei staff and volunteers. Also, a “Kitchen Favorites Plant Sale” (May 16 & 17) of veggies, herbs, and other selections grown by U-M Campus Farm volunteers, and a “Native Plant Sale” (May 30 & 31) of native seedlings grown in Matthaei’s greenhouses. 11 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (Sat.) & 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (Sun.), 1800 N. Dixboro Rd. Free admission; metered parking. (734) 647–7600, mbgna.umich.edu/spring-plant-sales.
“Creature Encounters & Adult Open Hours”: The Creature Conservancy
Observer Editor
Fri. May 1 & 15 and every Sat. & Sun. During the Friday Adult Open Hours (age 18+ only), conservancy staffers show off some rescued animals, including a wolf hybrid, a reticulated python, a black vulture, and an axolotl at 7:30 p.m. On Sat. and Sun., conservancy staffers show off the first three animals 1 & 4 p.m., and an animal keeper shows the axolotl at 2 & 3 p.m. All tickets include a chance to see the conservancy’s other animals. 7–9 p.m. (Fri.) & Noon–5 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), 4950 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. $15 (kids ages 2–12, $13; under age 2, free) cash or credit at the door only. (734) 929–9324, thecreatureconservancy.org.
“World Collage Day”: Ann Arbor District Library
Bløm 8th Birthday Party: Bløm Mead + Cider
Observer Editor
Tastings of small batch meads, including rhubarb mead, an artist’s market (2–5 p.m.), bingo hosted by drag queens (7–8 p.m.), and a drag show hosted by Blonski and Portia Lynn (9–10:30 p.m.). Also, pop-up sales of soft serve ice cream (noon–2 p.m.), baked goods (3–6 p.m.), and tamales (5:30–8:30 p.m.). Noon–10 p.m., 100 S. Fourth Ave. Free, but purchase of food and drink encouraged. (734) 548–9729.
Critter House Open Hours: Leslie Science & Nature Center
Halfway to Halloween Expo
Observer Editor
May 8 & 9. Horror-themed craft show with over 140 vendors offering a wide variety of scary holiday decorations, art, costumes, prints, jewelry, taxidermy, and custom pieces. Entertainment includes a haunted house, live performances TBA, and a hearse show. Food & drink for sale. Costumes encouraged. Friday 18+ only; Saturday all ages. 7–11 p.m. (Fri.) & noon–7 p.m. (Sat.), Washtenaw Farm Council grounds buildings, 5055 Ann Arbor–Saline Rd. Tickets $10–$25 (kids 12 & under, free) at halfwaytohalloweenmi.com & at the door.
Open House: U-M Detroit Observatory
Observer Editor
May 9 & 30 (different times). All invited to drop in and tour the historic building, view exhibits, participate in astronomy-related activities, and view the sun with the Observatory’s solar telescope (weather permitting). On May 30, the observatory is open late to observe the night sky with the 1857 Fitz telescope. Noon–5 p.m. (May 9) & noon–11 p.m. (May 30), 1398 E. Ann at Observatory. Free. (734) 763–2230, detroitobservatory.umich.edu.
U-M Museum of Natural History Planetarium & Dome Theater
Observer Editor
Every Fri.–Sun. Three different audiovisual planetarium shows suitable for all ages. Sea Monsters (noon) follows an intrepid Dolichorhynchops osborni (an extinct species of marine reptile) as she travels through the most dangerous oceans in history; The Sky Tonight (1 & 3 p.m.) explores the current night sky, with tips on how to find the cardinal directions, constellations, and planets on your own; and T. Rex (2 p.m.) describes the iconic dinosaur’s scientific and cinematic history (includes scenes of dinosaur violence). Noon, 1, 2, & 3 p.m., 1105 North University. $8 at the gift shop. Limited capacity. (734) 764–0480, ummnh.org.
“All About Owls”: U-M Museum of Natural History Discovery Demos
“Artemis II: Ready for the Moon”: Ann Arbor District Library
“Birding Basics”: Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission
Observer Editor
Those new to birding invited to join WCPARC naturalist Kelsey Dehring on a hike to learn tricks to identify birds based on habitat, markings, sounds, and other markers. Binoculars provided. 1–3 p.m., Sharon Mills County Park, north lot, 5701 Sharon Hollow Rd. Free. Preregistration required (capacity limited) at washtenaw.org/registerparks; #831009. [email protected].
“Mother’s Day Prints/Cards Drop-In Open Studio”: Ann Arbor Art Center
Walking Tour: Paths of Protest: Stories of Campus Activism at the University of Michigan: Detroit Observatory
Community Listing
The first teach-in. Lawsuits. Nazi resistance. U-M has long been home to activism, and this walking tour will visit historically significant locations where you will learn about protests on campus. We will cover women’s activism, the legacy of the Treaty of Fort Meigs, the Black Action Movement, anti-Vietnam War activism, and more.
Guided walking tour led by student docents. Duration: 1.25 hours; 1.25 miles.
Meet outside the Michigan League entrance on Ingalls Mall (facing the fountain).
Tour will take place in rain or snow, but will be cancelled for severe weather (registrants will be notified via email).
Registration required.
911 N University Ave ,Ann Arbor. https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/djg2z8q Free. [email protected] https://detroitobservatory.umich.edu/ 734-763-2230.Jewel Heart Happy Hikers: Jewel Heart Buddhist Center
Observer Editor
All welcome to join a hike through meadow and forest along the river. 1:30–2:30 p.m., Lillie Park–South Trails Loop 4365 Platt. Free. [email protected], jewelheart.org.
Museum Highlight Tours: U-M Museum of Natural History
“A Tribute to Billie Holiday”: The Encore Musical Theatre Company
Observer Editor
May 7–10. An ensemble of local musicians performs songs by jazz great Holiday, whose vocal style, strongly influenced by jazz instrumentalists, inspired a new way of manipulating phrasing and tempo. Although she was primarily known as a vocalist, she wrote or co-authored many of her most iconic songs, including “God Bless the Child,” “Don’t Explain,” “Fine and Mellow,” and “Lady Sings the Blues.” 7 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), Encore, 7714 Ann Arbor St., Dexter. Tickets $34–$56 in advance at theencoretheatre.org & at the door. (734) 268–6200.
“Cadence: A Podcast for Creatives”: Ann Arbor District Library
Observer Editor
Podcasters Hafsah Mijinyawa and Yen Azzaro host a live recording where emerging artists and professionals ask questions and share tips. Topics include fundraising during a time of uncertainty, the impact of AI on creative careers, and creative entrepreneurship. 2–3:30 p.m., AADL Downtown, 4th fl. Free. (734) 327–4200.
“Favorites 2.0!”: Ann Arbor Concert Band
Observer Editor
Artistic director David Leach conducts this local volunteer ensemble in the closing concert of its 47th season. The program is highlighted by Shostakovich’s Festive Overture, Paul Hindemith’s Symphony in B-flat, Gordon Jacob’s An Original Suite, Percy Grainger’s Lincolnshire Posy, and Vincent Persichetti’s Pageant. Also, Michael Kaufman conducts the premiere of Andrew David Perkins’ piece written for him, Kaufman’s Cove; and Skyline High student and clarinetist Benjamin Huang, the 2026 Young Artist Scholarship Competition winner, performs the Rondo from Carl Maria von Weber’s Clarinet Concerto No. 1. 2 p.m., Michigan Theater. $15 (seniors & students, $10; kids under 14, free) in advance at marquee-arts.org/live-events & at the door. (734) 668–8397.
“Highlights of the Kelsey”: U-M Kelsey Museum of Archaeology
Drop-in Improv Games: Ypsi Improv
Observer Editor
May 5, 9, 16, 23, & 30. All age 16 & up invited to learn about and participate in improv games in a fun, relaxed, and judgment-free setting. No experience necessary. The May 16 & 23 meetings are followed by an hour-long skills session discussing and practicing a specific improv skill. 7–9 p.m. (Tues.) & 2–4 p.m. (Sat.), Riverside Arts Center, 76 N. Huron St., Ypsi. Tickets $8 (with skills session, $15) in advance via PayPal or Venmo linked from meetup.com/ypsi-improv or in cash at the door.
“All About Owls”: U-M Museum of Natural History Discovery Demos
“Murder on the Links”: Purple Rose Theatre Company
Observer Editor
Every Wed.–Sun., Apr. 2–May 31. David Bendena directs Steven Dietz’s 2023 farce, based on an Agatha Christie whodunit, in which eccentric Belgian detective Hercule Poirot’s newest client is discovered, dead, on a French golf course. A cast of 6 actors embody a plethora of suspects in this high-energy, comic adaptation. Adult language and subject matter. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.), 3 p.m. (Thurs., Sat., & Wed.), 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.). PRT, 137 Park St., Chelsea. Tickets $31.50–$52.50 in advance at purplerosetheatre.org and (734) 433–7673, & (if available) at the door. Discounts available.
Annual Spring Concert: Ann Arbor Youth Chorale
Observer Editor
Shayla Powell and Bonnie Kidd direct the AAYC Descant and Concert Choirs of talented young local singers ages 9–16 in a varied program of songs both old and new. 3 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 1432 Washtenaw. $15 (seniors age 65 & over and youth age 17 & under, $10; family, $25) in advance at a2yc.org and at the door.
David & Jenny Heitler-Klevans: Ann Arbor District Library
Observer Editor
This nationally known Philadelphia-based husband-and-wife music duo performs a selection of songs from Hidden, their new musical based on the true story of Ruth Kapp Hartz, a young Jewish girl hiding in southern France during WWII. 5–6:30 p.m., AADL Downtown, lower level program rm. Free. (734) 327–4200.
Magic: The Gathering: Sylvan Factory
Observer Editor
Every Tues., Wed., Fri., & Sat. All invited to play both casual and tournament forms of the collectible card game Magic: The Gathering (MTG).
Tues. (6:30 p.m.): “Pauper.” A fun and fast format for all skill levels, three rounds. $5.
Wed. & Sat. (5 p.m.): “Commander.” A drop-in session of the most popular form of the game. Free.
Wed. (6:30 p.m.): “Standard.” Three rounds, with competitive tournament rules, prizes of store credit. $10.
Fri. (6:30 p.m.): “Friday Night Draft.” Cost and format vary.
Various times, 2459 W. Stadium. (734) 929–5877, sylvanfactory.com.
“Secret Garden Gala”: Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra Fundraiser
Observer Editor
Seated three-course dinner in the garden-decorated City Club ballroom, with dancing to music spun by DJ Myint. Also raffles and an auction. The evening begins with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Proceeds benefit the orchestra’s learning & community programs. Requested attire: elegant garden party gowns, tuxedos, and cocktail ensembles. 6 p.m., Ann Arbor City Club, 1830 Washtenaw. Tickets $250 (drink tickets, $20) by Apr. 16 at a2so.org/secret-garden-gala/. [email protected] or (734) 994-4801.
Michigan Raptors vs. Ohio Blitz
“A Tribute to Billie Holiday”: The Encore Musical Theatre Company
Observer Editor
May 7–10. An ensemble of local musicians performs songs by jazz great Holiday, whose vocal style, strongly influenced by jazz instrumentalists, inspired a new way of manipulating phrasing and tempo. Although she was primarily known as a vocalist, she wrote or co-authored many of her most iconic songs, including “God Bless the Child,” “Don’t Explain,” “Fine and Mellow,” and “Lady Sings the Blues.” 7 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), Encore, 7714 Ann Arbor St., Dexter. Tickets $34–$56 in advance at theencoretheatre.org & at the door. (734) 268–6200.
“Animal Farm: A Fairy Story”: Dreamland Theater
Observer Editor
Apr. 4, 17, 23, 26, & May 1, 9, & 16. The troupe uses marionettes and rod, hand, and shadow puppets to bring Naia Venturi’s adaptation of George Orwell’s dystopian classic to life. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime. 7–8 p.m., 26 N. Washington, Ypsi. Tickets $15–$18 at our.show/animalfarm & (if available) at the door. facebook.com/theaterdreamland.
Julie Beutel & Friends: Interfaith Center for Spiritual Growth Cafe 704
Observer Editor
This Detroit-based singer-guitarist performs thoughtful and uplifting folk tunes, along with some originals. 7–9 p.m., 704 Airport Blvd., ste. 1. Sliding scale tickets $10–$20 at the door only. Livestream available (livestream $10 in advance only at interfaithspirit.org/cafe-704-coffeehouse). (734) 657–5384, [email protected].
May Concert: Dexter Community Orchestra
Observer Editor
DCO music director David Schultz conducts this volunteer ensemble in a performance of Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Thomas Tallis Fantasia and Camille Saint-Saëns’ Symphony No. 3 in C minor for organ. Also, flutist Eva Fazekas, the DCO 2026 Youth Artist Concerto Competition winner performs a concerto TBA, and guest DCO music director emeritus Anthony Elliott conducts Handel’s “Largo” from Xerxes. 7–9 p.m., Dexter Center for the Performing Arts, Dexter High School, 2200 N. Parker, Dexter. Free. (734) 355–0725, dextercommunityorchestra.org.
Kelly Collette: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
Observer Editor
May 8 & 9. Mother’s Day–themed show from this Cincinnati comic and writer whose act covers such “girly” topics as weddings, shopping, and Botox mishaps. Opening acts TBA. 7:15 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 9:45 p.m. (Sat.), 212 S. Fourth Ave. $21 at aacomedy.com & (if available) at the door. (734) 996–9080.
“The Hound of the Baskervilles”: PTD Productions
Observer Editor
May 7–10 & 13–16. Local actors perform Tim Kelly’s drama based on Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic Sherlock Holmes novel in which the brilliant, enigmatic sleuth and his loyal sidekick Dr. Watson travel to the English countryside, where the locals believe a mythic hound is fulfilling an ancient family curse. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun. & Wed.), Riverside Arts Center, 76 N. Huron St., Ypsi. Tickets $20 (students, seniors, & active military, $15) in advance at ptdproductions.com & at the door. (734) 483–7345.
“Who Can Say?”: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
Ian Maksin: The Ypsi
Observer Editor
This Russian-born composer, cellist, and vocalist uses loop pedal and other electronics to create a “cello orchestra.” The program features selections from his 2025 album, Lullaby for the World, as well as selections from his repertoire of hundreds of songs in dozens of languages. Doors open at 7 p.m. 7:30–9 p.m., 218 N. Adams, Ypsi. Tickets $30–$40 at ypsi.org/maksin2026 & (if available) at the door.
“Murder on the Links”: Purple Rose Theatre Company
Observer Editor
Every Wed.–Sun., Apr. 2–May 31. David Bendena directs Steven Dietz’s 2023 farce, based on an Agatha Christie whodunit, in which eccentric Belgian detective Hercule Poirot’s newest client is discovered, dead, on a French golf course. A cast of 6 actors embody a plethora of suspects in this high-energy, comic adaptation. Adult language and subject matter. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.), 3 p.m. (Thurs., Sat., & Wed.), 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.). PRT, 137 Park St., Chelsea. Tickets $31.50–$52.50 in advance at purplerosetheatre.org and (734) 433–7673, & (if available) at the door. Discounts available.
“The Patio Prom”: Neighborhood Theatre Group
Observer Editor
May 8–10 & 15–17. Marisa Dluge directs local actors in the premiere of local playwright A.M. Dean’s new one-act comedy. It’s about a group of outdoor furniture salespeople pushed to the brink of insanity when the Chicago Merchandise Mart, where they are holding a conference, is locked down—forcing them to survive a night of chaos, debauchery, and poorly thought-out revenge plans. 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Back Office Studio, 13 N. Washington, Ypsi. Tickets $15 (students, $12) in advance at ticketstripe.com/thepatioprom & (if available) at the door. ntgypsi.org.
Saturday Night Improv: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
Observer Editor
Every Sat. House team Destination Unknown improvises based on a scenario suggested by the audience. Two guest troupes open. Also, on May 2, Love Fools, an improvised dating show with a lineup of strange characters (7:30 p.m., $10; $20 double-header with 8:30 p.m. show). 8:30–9:45 p.m., 2350 W. Liberty. $15 in advance at heardotsay.com/events, $18 (if available) at the door.
University Lowbrow Astronomers
Observer Editor
May 9 & 16. A chance to join local astronomy buffs for a look at the sky through instruments. Participants are welcome to bring their own telescopes. Visitors must turn off all electronic equipment (car radios, transmitters, phones, etc.) at the observatory entrance. Canceled if the sky is overcast or the weather is inclement. If in doubt, call after 4 p.m. day of event. 8:30–11:55 p.m. or as long as the sky remains clear, Peach Mountain Observatory, North Territorial (about 1¼ miles west of Hudson Mills Metropark), Dexter. Free. (734) 975–3248.
Cobalt Blues: Hoover Street Studio
Observer Editor
Dancing to live blues music TBA or music spun by a DJ. No partner or experience needed. Lesson at 8:30 p.m., followed by social dancing. 9–11:30 p.m., 323 E. Hoover. $10 (with student ID, $5) at the door. [email protected], facebook.com/cobaltbluesdance.
Kelly Collette: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
Observer Editor
May 8 & 9. Mother’s Day–themed show from this Cincinnati comic and writer whose act covers such “girly” topics as weddings, shopping, and Botox mishaps. Opening acts TBA. 7:15 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 9:45 p.m. (Sat.), 212 S. Fourth Ave. $21 at aacomedy.com & (if available) at the door. (734) 996–9080.