Events

Events Search and Views Navigation

Event Views Navigation

Today

  • Observer Editor

    “Bastard”: Purple Rose Theatre Company

    “Bastard”: Purple Rose Theatre Company
    More

    Every Wed.–Sun., Sept. 24–Dec. 20. Rhiannon Ragland directs retired Detroit newscaster and playwright Devin Scillian’s family comedy-drama about a conflict between brothers—an aging country rocker and a buttoned-down finance guy—after their mother’s death. Adult language and subject matter. 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.), 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), 2 p.m. (Sun.), & 3 p.m. (Sat. & Wed.). 137 Park St., Chelsea. Tickets $31.50–$52.50 in advance at purplerosetheatre.org, (734) 433–7673, & (if available) at the door. Discounts available.

  • Observer Editor

    “Maestro”: Theatre Nova

    “Maestro”: Theatre Nova
    More

    Every Fri.–Sun., Sept. 25–Oct. 18. Briana O’Neal directs local actors in Michigan playwright Michael Alan Herman’s cheeky comedy of manners about two 18th-century Viennese composers who go to ridiculous lengths to compete for a recently vacated royal court position. 8 p.m. (Fri.), 3 & 7 p.m. (Sat.), & 2 p.m. (Sun.). Theatre Nova, 410 W. Huron St. Tickets $33 (seniors, $30; students, $20) in advance at theatrenova.org & (if available) at the door. (734) 635–8450.

  • Observer Editor

    “Metamorphoses”: EMU Theatre Department

    “Metamorphoses”: EMU Theatre Department
    More

    Oct. 8–11. Jennifer Felts directs EMU drama students in Mary Zimmerman’s 1996 adaptation of the 1st–century Roman poet Ovid’s epic masterpiece. Includes such familiar stories as “King Midas,” “Narcissus,” and “Orpheus & Eurydice.” Suggested for ages 13 & up. 7 p.m. (Thurs.–Sat.) & 2 p.m. (Sun.), EMU Legacy Theatre, 1031 E. Circle Dr., Ypsi. Tickets $20 (seniors, $15; students, $12; kids 6–12, $7) in advance at emich.ludus.com, at the box office (10 a.m.–5 p.m. Mon.–Fri.), & (if available) at the door. $5.80 parking pass required if parking on site. (734) 487–2282. 

  • Observer Editor

    “Sister Act”: The Encore Musical Theatre Company

    “Sister Act”: The Encore Musical Theatre Company
    More

    Thurs.–Sun., Oct. 8–18. This local professional company performs Bill and Cheri Steinkellner, Glenn Slater, and Alan Menken’s musical based on the 1992 comedy film that starred Whoopi Goldberg as a Reno lounge singer who’s put under protective custody in a convent. The score draws on Motown, soul, funk, and disco. 7 p.m. (Thurs., Fri., & Sat.) and 2 p.m. (Sat. & Sun.), 7714 Ann Arbor St., Dexter. Tickets $39–$67 in advance at theencoretheatre.org & (if available) at the door. (734) 268–6200. 

  • Observer Editor

    “Come from Away”: U-M Musical Theatre Department

    “Come from Away”: U-M Musical Theatre Department
    More

    Oct. 8–11 & 14–18. Vincent Cardinal directs musical theater students in Irene Sankoff & David Hein’s award-winning 2017 upbeat musical set in the week following the September 11 attacks, when 38 planes, carrying thousands of people from around the world, were diverted to the tiny town of Gander, Newfoundland. Despite culture clashes and language barriers, the local people encourage the stranded travelers with music and an open bar, forming lifelong friendships, and even sparking romances. 7:30 p.m. (Wed. & Thurs.), 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), & 2 p.m. (10 Sat. & Sun.), Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre, 911 North University. Tickets $34–$40 (students, $16) in advance at tickets.smtd.umich.edu & at the door. (734) 764–0583.

  • Observer Editor

    “Time Passes: 8 Short Plays by Samuel Beckett”: U-M Theatre Department

    “Time Passes: 8 Short Plays by Samuel Beckett”: U-M Theatre Department
    More

    Oct. 1–4 & 8–11. Malcolm Tulip directs drama students in short works by this celebrated Irish playwright known for his verbal play, visual precision, and political imagination. The plays, written between the late 1950s and the early 1980s, include Act Without Words II, Play, Come and Go, Footfalls, Rockaby, Catastrophe, What Where, and Quad. 8 p.m. (Fri. & Sat.), 2 p.m. (Sun.), & 7:30 p.m. (Thurs.), Arthur Miller Theatre, 1226 Murfin. Tickets $35 (students, $16) in advance at tickets.smtd.umich.edu & at the door. (734) 764–0583.

  • Observer Editor

    “Gone with the Wind”: Fathom Entertainment

    “Gone with the Wind”: Fathom Entertainment
    More

    (734) 973–8424 (Cinemark), (734) 316–5500 (Emagine). Tickets $12.50 (except as noted) in advance at fathomentertainment.com/events and at the door. Cinemark (4100 Carpenter, Ypsi) & Emagine (1335 E. Michigan Ave., Saline). 

    Oct. 10–14: “Gone with the Wind” (Victor Fleming, 1939). The classic Civil War soap opera, centered on the narcissistic spitfire belle Scarlett O’Hara. Vivien Leigh, Clark Gable. 2 p.m (Sat. & Sun.) & 7 p.m. (Mon.–Wed.).

  • Observer Editor

    “Walk a Mile in My Shoes”: Jewish Family Services

    More

    All invited to join a 1-mile-long walk to support the organization’s work resettling refugees. 2–5 p.m. Burns Park Elementary, 1414 Wells. Free, but sponsorship and donations encouraged. Preregistration required at jfsannarbor.org/walk-a-mile. [email protected]. 

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    “Ypsi Photo Walk”: Dzanc House

    More

    Photographers of all skill levels with any kind of camera invited to walk together around Ypsi and take pictures. 3–4 p.m., 402 S. Huron St., Ypsi. Free. dzanchouse.org.  

  • Community Listing

    Candle-Making Event: The Universe Stuff

    More

    HOMES Campus, 112 Jackson Plaza, Ann Arbor

    An afternoon designed for trying something new, getting creative, and having a really good time.

    Join us for a relaxed candle-making experience where handcrafted scents and craft beer come together. Sip, pour, laugh, and create your own custom candle in a warm and welcoming brewery atmosphere — no experience needed.

    Whether you’re coming with friends or treating yourself, this workshop is all about slowing down, creating something with your hands, and leaving with a candle you’ll love (and a great memory). Beer will be available for purchase (not included in the ticket).

    What’s Included
    • A guided candle-making workshop using 100% pure soy wax
    • All candle-making materials provided
    • One handcrafted candle
    o Upgrade option: Add a second candle (+$15)
    • A relaxed, welcoming brewery atmosphere

    What to Expect
    • 3:00–3:15 – Arrival & Welcome: Settle in, grab your beer, and get comfortable.
    • 3:15–4:15 – Candle-Making Workshop: Learn the candle-making process and create your own custom soy candle using premium fragrances and wooden wicks.
    • 4:15–4:30 – Sip, Connect & Play: Enjoy your beer while your candle begins to set — we’ll play a fun round of Candle-Maker Bingo with small prizes for a few lucky guests.
    • 4:30–5:00 – Candle Personalization: Decorate your candle to make it uniquely yours.

    Why Join?
    • Try something new and creative — no experience needed
    • Pair beer with hands-on creativity
    • Play with scents and create a candle that feels uniquely yours
    • Enjoy a relaxed, feel-good atmosphere with great company
    • Leave with a handmade candle you’ll actually love — and a really good memory

    Meet the Host
    Renata – Candle Maker & Wellness Facilitator – @the.universe.stuff

    Renata is the heart and hands behind The Universe Stuff, a holistic wellness brand rooted in mindfulness, creativity, and intention. She handcrafts soy candles and other wellness products designed to support balance and self-care, and she hosts workshops that invite people to slow down, connect, and create. Based in the Ann Arbor area, Renata loves bringing people together through meaningful, hands-on experiences.

    https://www.theuniversestuff.com/event-details/beer-candle-making-workshop-homes-campus?fbclid=IwY2xjawTpd8pwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMU9ZWXEwMmE4N2JhbjNFandzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeHYb4kDh5z82dkRvVajZ_mbnc8nNXf1iUMyG41ZqlpycExAM_3KMUEH_zegY_aem_4gcgpQhM7vrbcg2oX1iHXg

    $45
  • Community Listing

    Beer + Candle-Making: HOMES Campus - Beer Garden & Taproom

    More

    112 Jackson Plaza,, Ann Arbor

    An afternoon designed for trying something new, getting creative, and having a really good time.

    Join us for a relaxed candle-making experience where handcrafted scents and craft beer come together. Sip, pour, laugh, and create your own custom candle in a warm and welcoming brewery atmosphere — no experience needed.

    Whether you’re coming with friends or treating yourself, this workshop is all about slowing down, creating something with your hands, and leaving with a candle you’ll love (and a great memory). Beer will be available for purchase (not included in the ticket).

    ✨ What’s Included
    • A guided candle-making workshop using 100% pure soy wax
    • All candle-making materials provided
    • One handcrafted candle
    o Upgrade option: Add a second candle (+$15)
    • A relaxed, welcoming brewery atmosphere

    ✨ What to Expect
    • 3:00–3:15 – Arrival & Welcome: Settle in, grab your beer, and get comfortable.
    • 3:15–4:15 – Candle-Making Workshop: Learn the candle-making process and create your own custom soy candle using premium fragrances and wooden wicks.
    • 4:15–4:30 – Sip, Connect & Play: Enjoy your beer while your candle begins to set — we’ll play a fun round of Candle-Maker Bingo with small prizes for a few lucky guests.
    • 4:30–5:00 – Candle Personalization: Decorate your candle to make it uniquely yours.

    ✨ Why Join?
    • Try something new and creative — no experience needed
    • Pair beer with hands-on creativity
    • Play with scents and create a candle that feels uniquely yours
    • Enjoy a relaxed, feel-good atmosphere with great company
    • Leave with a handmade candle you’ll actually love — and a really good memory

    ✨ Meet the Host
    Renata – Candle Maker & Wellness Facilitator – @the.universe.stuff

    Renata is the heart and hands behind The Universe Stuff, a holistic wellness brand rooted in mindfulness, creativity, and intention. She handcrafts soy candles and other wellness products designed to support balance and self-care, and she hosts workshops that invite people to slow down, connect, and create. Based in the Ann Arbor area, Renata loves bringing people together through meaningful, hands-on experiences.

    ✨ About the Space
    HOMES Campus – www.homescampus.com

    This workshop will take place at HOMES Campus, a spacious gathering place and creative hub on the west side of Ann Arbor. Created as an extension of HOMES Brewery, the Campus brings together craft beverages, food, coffee, community events, and flexible gathering spaces in one lively and welcoming destination.

    The property features a large indoor taproom, a sprawling outdoor beer garden, and dedicated event spaces designed for bringing people together. Its colorful, modern atmosphere feels energetic and creative while remaining casual and comfortable—making it an ideal setting for a hands-on experience with friends.

    Guests can enjoy HOMES Brewery’s rotating selection of craft beers alongside other beverage options, including cider, wine, spirits, and low-ABV spritzes. HOMES Campus is also home to Campo Pizza and Dozer Coffee, giving visitors plenty of food and drink options to explore during their time at the venue.

    With its unique mix of creativity, community, and local flavor, HOMES Campus is the perfect setting for a memorable candle-making experience—where guests can create something of their own while enjoying great drinks, delicious food, and the vibrant atmosphere of one of Ann Arbor’s most distinctive gathering spaces.

    https://www.theuniversestuff.com/event-details/beer-candle-making-workshop-homes-campus

    $60
  • Observer Editor

    “Appalachian Spring & Pathétique”: Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra

    More

    Conductor Earl Lee leads the A2SO in a program highlighted by Aaron Copland’s poignant high lonesome Appalachian Spring Suite, with its open chords, spare textures, and folk song influences. Also, charismatic guest solo violinist Amaryn Olmeda anchors a performance of Samuel Barber’s Violin Concerto. A world premiere of renowned German American Samuel Adler’s To Life!, and Tchaikovsky’s graceful, haunting final work, Symphony No. 6 (“Pathétique”), close the program. Preceded at 2 p.m. by a talk. 3 p.m., Hill Auditorium. Tickets $15–$115 (youths & students, $13–$24) in advance only at a2so.com. (734) 994–4801. 

  • Observer Editor

    “Cloverfield”: Michigan Theater

    More

    Film screenings every day. Tickets $11.75 unless otherwise noted (children under 12, students, seniors age 65 & older, and U.S. veterans, $9.75; Marquee Arts members, $8) in advance online (recommended) & at the door. For updated schedule, see marquee-arts.org/calendar. 

    Oct. 11: “Cloverfield” (Matt Reeves, 2008). Found footage monster movie in which 6 friends attempt to flee from a monster that attacks New York City. 4 p.m.

  • Free
    Observer Editor

    “Porter’s Place & Dunbar Tower Celebration”: Ann Arbor Housing Commission

    More

    Grand opening of this new community gathering space and affordable apartment building, with food trucks dispensing free food, storytelling performances, art installations about the city’s historic Black West Side, self-guided building tours, and speeches. 4:30–6:30 p.m., 121 Catherine. Free. [email protected], a2gov.org/housing-commission/porters-place. 

  • Observer Editor

    “Tales from the Cryptid: An Improvised Urban Legend”: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater

    “Tales from the Cryptid: An Improvised Urban Legend”: Hear.Say Brewing + Theater
    More

    Oct. 11 & 18. A fully unscripted one-act theatrical show about the appearance of a new cryptid that shakes up a small town. Also, on Oct. 18, a family-friendly matinee performance (3–4 p.m.). 6–7 p.m., 2350 W. Liberty. $15 in advance at heardotsay.com/events & $18 (if available) at the door. 

  • Observer Editor

    Curtis Glatter: Maple Street Studios

    More

    This local composer-percussionist performs electro-acoustic soundscapes from his new album, Code: Color: Field. 6 p.m., 418 Maple, Ypsi. Donation requested. Preregistration required at maplestreetstudios.org. (734) 216–1375. 

  • Observer Editor

    Drag Becomes Her presents “Death Becomes Her”: Michigan Theater

    More

    Film screenings every day. Tickets $11.75 unless otherwise noted (children under 12, students, seniors age 65 & older, and U.S. veterans, $9.75; Marquee Arts members, $8) in advance online (recommended) & at the door. For updated schedule, see marquee-arts.org/calendar. 

    Oct. 11: Drag Becomes Her presents “Death Becomes Her” (Robert Zemeckis, 1992). Local drag stars Alex Suarez, Perry Dox, and Virgil Ciel perform before, after, and occasionally during a screening of this surrealist black comedy starring Meryl Streep, Goldie Hawn, and Bruce Willis, a send-up of our beauty- and youth-obsessed culture. Costumes encouraged; specialty cocktails available. 6 p.m.