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Events in May 2026
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May 15, 2026
“Springtime Invitational Competition”: Ann Arbor Figure Skating Club
Observer Editor
May 14–17: Skaters from beginners to seniors compete in freestyle, ice dance, pairs, and showcase categories. Also, in preparation for the competition, AAFSC skaters exhibit their solo ice dance routines (May 8, 4:15 p.m.–7:05 p.m.) and their freestyle routines (May 12, 6:15 p.m.–8:05 p.m.). 9 a.m.–8 p.m. (May 14–16) & 9 a.m.–noon (May 17), Ann Arbor Ice Cube, 2121 Oak Valley Dr. Free. (734) 213–6768.
Beginning Birders Series: Washtenaw Bird & Nature Alliance
Observer Editor
Every Fri., except May 29. Club member Gaia Stanley leads a hike through the Arb to observe and identify birds commonly found in town. All welcome, but geared towards birders with no experience. Bring binoculars if you have them. 9–11 a.m., U-M Arboretum, meet at the Dow Prairie entrance at Riverview Dr. Free. washtenawbna.org.
“Joe’s Breakfast Club”: Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society
Observer Editor
Every Fri. Moderate-paced ride, 20 miles or more, to Dexter and beyond. Pack a lunch or stop in Dexter. 10 a.m. sharp, meet at Delhi Metro Park parking lot (left of the tollbooth), E. Delhi Rd. off Huron River Dr. 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.
“Last One for the Road”: Cinetopia International Film Festival
Observer Editor
May 13–17. This annual festival features narrative feature-length films and documentaries that recently premiered at international festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Screenings are over 5 days at 2 local venues: Michigan Theater (Michigan) & State Theatre (State). Individual tickets, TBA; festival passes, $125–$150; in advance online at marquee-arts.org/cinetopia & at the Michigan Theater, and at the door.
“Last One for the Road” (Francesco Sossai, 2025). Italian drama about 2 small-time crooks facing middle age who go on a bender through the Venetian countryside. Italian, subtitles. State (Fri. noon & Sun. 3 p.m.)
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].
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.
“In Excess”: Cinetopia International Film Festival
Observer Editor
May 13–17. This annual festival features narrative feature-length films and documentaries that recently premiered at international festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Screenings are over 5 days at 2 local venues: Michigan Theater (Michigan) & State Theatre (State). Individual tickets, TBA; festival passes, $125–$150; in advance online at marquee-arts.org/cinetopia & at the Michigan Theater, and at the door.
“In Excess” (Melissa Langer, 2025). Documentary that examines labor, capital, and displacement in modern America through the lens of one city’s trash. Followed by Q&A with the director. Michigan (Fri. 12:15 & Sat. 4:15 p.m.).
“If I Go Will They Miss Me”: Cinetopia International Film Festival
Observer Editor
May 13–17. This annual festival features narrative feature-length films and documentaries that recently premiered at international festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Screenings are over 5 days at 2 local venues: Michigan Theater (Michigan) & State Theatre (State). Individual tickets, TBA; festival passes, $125–$150; in advance online at marquee-arts.org/cinetopia & at the Michigan Theater, and at the door.
“If I Go Will They Miss Me” (Walter Thompson-Hernández, 2025). Drama about an imaginative 12-year-old who lives in the LAX flight path who transforms his working class neighborhood into a mythological world. State (Fri. 12:45 p.m.) & Michigan (Sat. 4:30 p.m.).
Duplicate Bridge: Ann Arbor City Club
Observer Editor
Every Fri., Tues., & Thurs. All invited to play ACBL-sanctioned duplicate bridge (Fri. & Tues.) and a 499er game (Thurs.) for players with no more than 499 ACBL master points. 1–4 p.m. (arrive by 12:45 p.m.), 1830 Washtenaw Ave. $9 per person. If you plan to come without a partner, email [email protected].
“Dead Deer High”: Cinetopia International Film Festival
Observer Editor
May 13–17. This annual festival features narrative feature-length films and documentaries that recently premiered at international festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Screenings are over 5 days at 2 local venues: Michigan Theater (Michigan) & State Theatre (State). Individual tickets, TBA; festival passes, $125–$150; in advance online at marquee-arts.org/cinetopia & at the Michigan Theater, and at the door.
“Dead Deer High” (Jo Rochell, 2026). In this drama, a once-brilliant high school slam poetry team has lost its voice and must find it again on a national stage. Followed by Q&A with the director, writer, and 2 cast members. Michigan (Fri. 2:45 p.m. & Sun. 11:45 a.m.).
“This Is Ballroom”: Cinetopia International Film Festival
Observer Editor
May 13–17. This annual festival features narrative feature-length films and documentaries that recently premiered at international festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Screenings are over 5 days at 2 local venues: Michigan Theater (Michigan) & State Theatre (State). Individual tickets, TBA; festival passes, $125–$150; in advance online at marquee-arts.org/cinetopia & at the Michigan Theater, and at the door.
“This Is Ballroom” (Juru & Vitã, 2024). Documentary about the LGBTQ ballroom culture in Rio de Janeiro. Portuguese, subtitles. State (Fri. 3 p.m. & Sun. 12:15 p.m.).
A Brighter Way's 4th Annual Community BBQ: A Brighter Way
Community Listing
Please join us for our 4th Annual Community BBQ
There will be music, resources, food and a great community!
If you are an organization interested in tabling please fill out the google form link below:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSde0HbfgIGB9jWh4TpfvtdJcJq08cptkvAvD8ZT5GM7EFK6RQ/viewform?usp=header
If you plan on attending please just show up and share this with others. Bring the entire family!
Riverside Park-Ypsilanti ,2E. Cross Street, Ypsilanti. Free. [email protected] abrighterway.org 734-787-8535.“Thanks for Nothing”: Cinetopia International Film Festival
Observer Editor
May 13–17. This annual festival features narrative feature-length films and documentaries that recently premiered at international festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Screenings are over 5 days at 2 local venues: Michigan Theater (Michigan) & State Theatre (State). Individual tickets, TBA; festival passes, $125–$150; in advance online at marquee-arts.org/cinetopia & at the Michigan Theater, and at the door.
“Thanks for Nothing” (Stella Marie Markert, 2025). Dark comedy about a group of Berlin teenagers living in a group foster home. German, subtitles. State (Fri. 3:15 p.m. & Sat. 11:45 a.m.).
“Fix-It Friday”: Maker Works
Observer Editor
All invited to bring anything that needs fixing—chairs, radios, whatever. Maker Works members and staff on hand to help with repairs. Handy people invited to assist. Repairs not guaranteed. Also, toy adaptations to make off-the-shelf toys more accessible for people with disabilities. 4–6 p.m., 3765 Plaza. Free. Preregistration required at tinyurl.com/a2fix-it-fri. (734) 222–4911.
U-M Baseball
Observer Editor
Game vs. Ohio. This month’s home schedule also includes a 3-game series vs. Ohio State (May 14, 6 p.m.; May 15, 4 p.m.; & May 16, 1 p.m.). 4 p.m., Ray Fisher Stadium, 1114 S. State. Today’s game, free; 3-game series tickets $10–$12 at mgoblue.com/tickets & at the gate. (734) 764–0247.
Walking Tour: Creating Michigan: Key Moments in U-M’s Early History: Judy and Stanley Frankel Detroit Observatory
Community Listing
Explore the first 70 years of U-M history, from the University’s Native American land accession and its origins in Detroit in 1817 to its move to Ann Arbor and emergence as a research university after 1837. We’ll traverse the original 40-acre campus, learning about the professors, presidents, and students who walked the Diag nearly two centuries ago.
Guided walking tour led by student docents. Duration: 1.5 hours; 0.6 miles.
Meet at the steps of Angell Hall facing State Street.
Tour will take place in rain or snow, but will be cancelled for severe weather (registrants will be notified via email).
Registration required.
435 S State St ,Ann Arbor. https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/5q23nvs Free. [email protected] https://detroitobservatory.umich.edu/ 734-763-2230.Friday Night Live Music at Lake Forest Golf Club: Lake Forest Golf Club
Community Listing
🎶 Friday Night Live Music at Lake Forest Golf Club 🎶
Join us Friday, May 15th at 5:30 PM for an evening of live music featuring veteran musicians and performers Terry Farmer and Neil Donato. The night features interesting and artistic covers, original songs and improvisation.
Come early and enjoy Happy Hour from 3–5 PM featuring food and drink specials before the music begins. Open to the public.
📍 Ellsworth Food & Spirits at Lake Forest Golf Club
🗓 Friday, May 8
⏰ Happy Hour: 3–5 PM | Live Music Starts: 5:30 PM
🎵 Live Music by Terry Farmer and Neil Donato
View the full menu online: https://ellsworthannarbor.com/menus/#specials
3110 W Ellsworth Rd, Ann Arbor. Free. [email protected]. ellsworthannarbor.com 7349948580.
3110 W. Ellsworth Road ,Ann Arbor. Free. [email protected] www.lakeforestgc.com 734-994-8580.Tony Pinnell: Argus Farm Stop Packard Cafe
Observer Editor
May 8 & 15. Versatile local singer-guitarist with country-rock roots who plays an eclectic mix of acoustic rock, indie pop-folk, and world music covers. Featuring guest vocalist Lizzie Randolph. 5:30–7 p.m., 1200 Packard. Free; food & drink for sale. Tips welcome. (734) 997–5448, argusfarmstop.com/events-1.
“Renoir”: Cinetopia International Film Festival
Observer Editor
May 13–17. This annual festival features narrative feature-length films and documentaries that recently premiered at international festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Screenings are over 5 days at 2 local venues: Michigan Theater (Michigan) & State Theatre (State). Individual tickets, TBA; festival passes, $125–$150; in advance online at marquee-arts.org/cinetopia & at the Michigan Theater, and at the door.
“Renoir” (Chie Hayakawa, 2025). In this drama, an 11-year-old girl is adrift in Tokyo while her mother is busy tending to her terminally ill father. Japanese, subtitles. State (Fri. 5:45 p.m. & Sat. 11:30 a.m.).
“A Sad and Beautiful World”: Cinetopia International Film Festival
Observer Editor
May 13–17. This annual festival features narrative feature-length films and documentaries that recently premiered at international festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Screenings are over 5 days at 2 local venues: Michigan Theater (Michigan) & State Theatre (State). Individual tickets, TBA; festival passes, $125–$150; in advance online at marquee-arts.org/cinetopia & at the Michigan Theater, and at the door.
“A Sad and Beautiful World” (Cyril Aris, 2025). A sweeping decade-spanning love story set in Beirut. Lebanese, subtitles. Michigan (Fri. 6 p.m.) & State (Sat. 2:15 p.m.).
“The Princess Bride” Interactive Movie Experience: Ann Arbor District Library
Observer Editor
AADL Downtown, lower level program rm. Free. (734) 327–4200.
May 15: “The Princess Bride” Interactive Movie Experience (Rob Reiner, 1987). Participatory showing of this sweet, witty, tongue-in-cheek fairy tale about a farm girl kidnapped by a villainous ruler who intends to marry her. Audience members are encouraged to act out scenes from the movie as it plays, à la Rocky Horror Picture Show screenings. Scripts and props provided. 6–7:45 p.m.
D&D Adventurers League: Sylvan Factory
Observer Editor
Every Fri. All invited to play the current official campaign of the popular Dungeons & Dragons tabletop role-playing game, using 5th-edition rules. Kids under 13 must have parent or guardian accompaniment. 6–10 p.m., 2459 W. Stadium. $10. Space limited, preregistration strongly recommended. (734) 929–5877, sylvanfactory.com.
Drop-in Line Dancing: Pittsfield Recreation Center
Community Listing
Friday, May 15, 2026, 6pm-7:30pm at the Pittsfield Recreation Center, SW corner of Ellsworth and S. State Street, Ann Arbor. Enjoy Drop-in Line Dancing for those 18 and up. Wear comfortable clothes, soft-soled shoes or boots. Learn three, beginner line dances. The price is $7 if you pre-register at: www.recreation.pittsfield-mi.gov or $10 at the door. For questions or information, call the Pittsfield Recreation Center at: 734-822-2120.
701 W. Ellsworth Rd ,Ann Arbor. www.recreation.pittsfield-mi,gov $7 if pre-registered or $10 at door. [email protected] www.recreation.pittsfield-mi.gov 734-822-2120.“Carryout”: Literati Bookstore
“Power Ballad”: Cinetopia International Film Festival
Observer Editor
May 13–17. This annual festival features narrative feature-length films and documentaries that recently premiered at international festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Screenings are over 5 days at 2 local venues: Michigan Theater (Michigan) & State Theatre (State). Individual tickets, TBA; festival passes, $125–$150; in advance online at marquee-arts.org/cinetopia & at the Michigan Theater, and at the door.
“Power Ballad” (John Carney, 2026). Musical comedy/drama about the conflicts that arise when a fading boy band star (Nick Jonas) turns a song by a washed-up wedding singer (Paul Rudd) into a hit. Michigan (Fri. 6:30 p.m.).
Candlelight Concerts: Kalkaska String Quartet
Observer Editor
This Detroit-based ensemble presents 2 candlelight concerts each night. Tonight: “Tribute to British Rock Legends” (6:30 p.m.) highlights instrumental arrangements of music by the Beatles and Queen, and “A Tribute to Coldplay and Imagine Dragons” (8:45 p.m.) features instrumental arrangements of music by these 2 early 21st-century rock bands. Age 8 & up. 6:30 & 8:45 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 1432 Washtenaw Ave. $26–$58 per show. Preregistration required at feverup.com/en/ann-arbor/candlelight.
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.
“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”: Young People’s Theater
Observer Editor
May 15–17. Michael Newberry directs local young actors in the musical based on Roald Dahl’s darkly surreal 1964 children’s novel about a poor boy who wins a tour of a mysterious, flamboyant chocolate maker’s factory. With book by David Greig, music by Marc Shaiman, and lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman. The score includes such favorites as “The Candy Man,” “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” and “Pure Imagination.” 7 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), 1 p.m. (Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.), Power Center. Tickets $18 (kids, $15) in advance at tinyurl.com/a2ypt-5-15-26 & (if available) at the door. (734) 222–4006.
“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.
“debut”: Ann Arbor Summer Festival Fundraiser
Observer Editor
A2SF kicks off its 43rd season with a party featuring a burlesque show, illusionists, and live music by Cabaret Boreale, a local quintet that plays everything from vintage jazz classics to contemporary favorites with jazz age flair and an engaging theatricality. Tickets include hors d’oeuvres and 2 drinks. 7 p.m., HOMES Campus, 112 Jackson Plz. Tickets $125 & up in advance at a2sf.org/events/debut and at the door.
“Love’s Labours Lost”: St. Augustine’s Homeschool Enrichment Program Campion Players
Observer Editor
May 15–17. Henry Russell directs area homeschooled teens in one of Shakespeare’s early comedies, a sophisticated treatment, both impish and serious, of the conflict between bloodless ideals and messy human relationships. When a king and 3 of his lords vow to deny themselves worldly pleasures and devote themselves to academic study, a princess and her 3 ladies arrive to complicate matters. 7 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.) & 3 p.m. (Sun.), U-M Lydia Mendelssohn Theater, $10 (families, $40) at the box office or by emailing [email protected].
“Other Worlds: A Sci-fi/Fantasy Book Club”: Booksweet Bookshop
Telling Tales Out of School: Student Advocacy Center;
Community Listing
The Student Advocacy Center of Michigan (SAC) is excited to announce their annual storytelling event, Telling Tales Out of School. On Friday, May 15, 2026. Beginning at 6:15pm, community members, supporters, and neighbors will gather for this powerful evening where student and caregiver storytellers come together to inspire, challenge, and create community.
Telling Tales will take place at Huron High School (2727 Fuller Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105) with refreshments provided from local vendors, including MAIZ, Zingerman’s, and the Huron High School Culinary Program. There will be a musical performance by Formula734. Tickets are $30 but are discounted to $10 for students with an ID and can be purchased at https://bit.ly/TellingTales2026.
This year’s emcee is Cole Williams. He is a father, author, speaker, and advocate for youth and families impacted by the juvenile justice and child welfare systems. He is the Executive Director and Founder of the Delta Project, a nonprofit organization that empowers young people- especially Black and brown boys- to envision meaningful futures. Cole’s work centers family engagement, healing and youth voice.
Telling Tales is a way to connect and share true personal stories from those who have faced educational challenges. This year, we are featuring three storytellers:
Amanda Wells, a mom who lived through sleepless nights and broken expectations, and thanks to the Student Advocacy Center, she got the moment she once thought she would never have—her son’s graduation.
Brad Gonzalez, a recent grad of University of Michigan Law School and School of Social Work. He served as an intern twice at SAC and was a student leader at U-M’s Student Rights Project. He grew up in Detroit and formerly worked in Lincoln Park Public Schools.
A teen, a Detroit resident and recent high school graduate. She is a writer hoping to share a bit about who she is and who she is becoming.
“When families call us, they often feel desperate and are in crisis,” said SAC Co-Executive Director Peri Stone-Palmquist. “They feel there is no one who has been able to or willing to help them. An education is the key that unlocks just about every opportunity, but so many students struggle to access that education. SAC supports students and their families as they work to avoid expulsions and suspensions, connect to resources, enroll in school, and secure post-expulsion services.”
Peri Stone-Palmquist can provide information about the event. She can be reached at (734) 482-0489 or [email protected].
Huron High School; 2727 Fuller Road ,Ann Arbor. https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/Unl8Ajqi1klR559f5xh79Q $30. [email protected] 7342395240.Writers Co: Westminster Presbyterian Church
Observer Editor
Performance by this local jazz-influenced acoustic folk-rock trio that plays mostly originals, along with a handful of covers. With singer Zack Smith, singer & ukulele player Bekah Brudi, and singer & drummer Nate Veldhoff. Brudi and Veldhoff also both play guitar and piano. Preceded at 6:30 p.m. by snacks. 7–8 p.m., Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1500 Scio Church Rd. Free.
Dan Mintz: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
Observer Editor
May 15 & 16. Comic, actor, and writer best known as the voice of Tina Belcher on Bob’s Burgers. He has written for Nathan for You, Veep, and Mulaney, and has appeared on Silicon Valley, The Goldbergs, and Speechless. As a comic, he’s known for his deadpan delivery and awkward, absurdist jokes. Opening acts TBA. 7:15 & 9:45 p.m., 212 S. Fourth Ave. $27.50 (Sat. late show, $25) at aacomedy.com & (if available) at the door. Special engagement; no passes, discounts, or coupons accepted. (734) 996–9080.
“A Cello Mosaic of Eastern Europe & Latin America”: Kerrytown Concert House
Observer Editor
Cellist Robert Reed and pianist Timothy Cheek perform works by Eastern European and Latin American composers, including Czechs Vítězslava Kaprálová and Leoš Janáček, Ukrainian Myroslav Skoryk, Argentinian Alberto Ginastera, and Mexicans Arturo Márquez and Manuel M. Ponce. 7:30 p.m., 415 N. Fourth Ave. $30–$40 (students, $20–$30) in advance online & (if available) at the door. (734) 769–2999, kerrytownconcerthouse.com.
“Come to the Music!”: Ypsilanti Community Choir Annual Spring Concert
Observer Editor
Ariel Toews Ricotta directs this local choral ensemble and the Livonia Youth Choir in a variety of choral works and show tunes, including “River Song,” “Gershwin Portrait,” and selections from The Sound of Music. Piano accompaniment by Maria Cimarelli. 7:30 p.m. WCC Morris Lawrence Bldg. Towsley Auditorium, 4800 E. Huron River Dr. Free. ypsicommchoir.org.
“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.
“The Seestar: What We’ve Learned (In the Last Year)”: University Lowbrow Astronomers Monthly Meeting
Ann Arbor Train and Trolley Watchers
Observer Editor
Presentation by noted railroad photographer Larry Krieg on trains of New Zealand, Australia, and Japan. 7:30 p.m., Traver Lakes Clubhouse, 2500 Lancashire via Huron Pkwy. (Nixon is under construction). Free. (734) 761–3814, [email protected].
“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.
Peter Madcat Ruth's C.A.R.Ma Quartet: Rancho Tranquilico
Observer Editor
World-renowned veteran local harmonica wiz Ruth leads this all-star ensemble in an eclectic mix of traditional and improvisational music. With tabla player John Churchville, bassist Brennan Andes, and guitarist Dan Ripke. 8 p.m. (gate opens at 7:30 p.m.), Rancho Tranquilico barn, 11300 Island Lake Rd., Dexter. Parking is in neighboring Ruhlig's Country Market driveway. $30 payable via Venmo: [email protected] or PayPal: @paypal.me/petermadcatruth. Preregistration required, space limited. [email protected]. (734) 223–2321.
“Public Access”: Cinetopia International Film Festival
Observer Editor
May 13–17. This annual festival features narrative feature-length films and documentaries that recently premiered at international festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Screenings are over 5 days at 2 local venues: Michigan Theater (Michigan) & State Theatre (State). Individual tickets, TBA; festival passes, $125–$150; in advance online at marquee-arts.org/cinetopia & at the Michigan Theater, and at the door.
“Public Access” (David Shadrack Smith, 2026). This documentary chronicles the chaotic and influential history of NYC public-access television during the 1970s and 80s. Followed by Q&A with the director. Michigan (Fri. 8:45 p.m. & Sun. 3:15 p.m.).
Candlelight Concerts: Kalkaska String Quartet
Observer Editor
This Detroit-based ensemble presents 2 candlelight concerts each night. Tonight: “Tribute to British Rock Legends” (6:30 p.m.) highlights instrumental arrangements of music by the Beatles and Queen, and “A Tribute to Coldplay and Imagine Dragons” (8:45 p.m.) features instrumental arrangements of music by these 2 early 21st-century rock bands. Age 8 & up. 6:30 & 8:45 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 1432 Washtenaw Ave. $26–$58 per show. Preregistration required at feverup.com/en/ann-arbor/candlelight.
“Fiume O Morte!”: Cinetopia International Film Festival
Observer Editor
May 13–17. This annual festival features narrative feature-length films and documentaries that recently premiered at international festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Screenings are over 5 days at 2 local venues: Michigan Theater (Michigan) & State Theatre (State). Individual tickets, TBA; festival passes, $125–$150; in advance online at marquee-arts.org/cinetopia & at the Michigan Theater, and at the door.
“Fiume O Morte!” (Igor Bezinović, 2025). This inventive, darkly comic, and truly strange documentary recreates—using locals recruited by the director—the 1919 invasion and 16-month occupation of the city of Fiume (now Rijeka, Croatia) by Italian poet, dandy, and proto-fascist Gabriele D’Annunzio. Italian & Croatian, subtitles. State (Fri. 9 p.m.) & Michigan (Sat. 2 p.m.).
“Telescope Observing”: U-M Detroit Observatory
Observer Editor
Every Fri. All invited to drop in to use the Observatory’s 1857 Fitz telescope and other modern instruments. Exhibits are also open regardless of viewing conditions. Last visitors admitted 30 minutes prior to closing. 9–11 p.m., 1398 E. Ann at Observatory. Free, no registration required. (734) 763–2230, detroitobservatory.umich.edu.
Riverside Swings: Riverside Arts Center
Observer Editor
Every Fri. Swing dancing to recorded music. No partner or experience required. Wear comfortable low-grip/tread shoes. Preceded at 7 and 8 p.m. by hour-long lessons. Followed by a “late-night blues-&-fusion” dance. The 1st Friday of each month is free, and the 3rd Friday includes a Charleston lesson. 9–11 p.m., 76 N. Huron St., Ypsi. $5 (students, $4). riversidearts.org/riverside-swings.
“Dog of God”: Cinetopia International Film Festival
Observer Editor
May 13–17. This annual festival features narrative feature-length films and documentaries that recently premiered at international festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Screenings are over 5 days at 2 local venues: Michigan Theater (Michigan) & State Theatre (State). Individual tickets, TBA; festival passes, $125–$150; in advance online at marquee-arts.org/cinetopia & at the Michigan Theater, and at the door.
“Dog of God” (Raitis Ābele, Lauris Ābele, 2025). Animated horror/comedy about dark magic in a 17th-century Livonian village. Latvian, subtitles. State (Fri. 9:15 p.m.) & Michigan (Sat. 9 p.m.).
Dan Mintz: Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase
Observer Editor
May 15 & 16. Comic, actor, and writer best known as the voice of Tina Belcher on Bob’s Burgers. He has written for Nathan for You, Veep, and Mulaney, and has appeared on Silicon Valley, The Goldbergs, and Speechless. As a comic, he’s known for his deadpan delivery and awkward, absurdist jokes. Opening acts TBA. 7:15 & 9:45 p.m., 212 S. Fourth Ave. $27.50 (Sat. late show, $25) at aacomedy.com & (if available) at the door. Special engagement; no passes, discounts, or coupons accepted. (734) 996–9080.