There’s so much to do in our region! Here’s a look at what’s coming up this season in our many arts venues.
January
Classic Film Series: 1916’s Greatest Actors
Jan. 6, 1 p.m. & 7 p.m. This series features films of actors born in 1916. Watch “Robin Hood” (1933) starring Olivia de Havilland and Errol Flynn. Lindo Theatre, 115 S. Chicago Ave., Freeport, (815) 233-0025, stephenson-county-il.org.
You Must Remember This
Jan. 8-10, Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. This performance tells the stories of people in the Rock County area whose lives have been affected by Alzheimer’s/dementia. Janesville Performing Arts Center, 408 S. Main St., Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.
Arthur D. Montzka Young Artists Concerto Competition
Jan. 9, 10 a.m. Illinois musicians play portions of concertos in a competition to determine which one or two will win a monetary prize and perform a solo concerto accompanied by the Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra. NIU Boutell Concert Hall, 1425 W. Lincoln Highway, DeKalb, Ill., (815) 756-3728, kishorchestra.org.
Jazz at Emerson: Patte Armato Lund
Jan. 10, 3 p.m. Enjoy the swinging sounds of live jazz, relax with light refreshments, have fun with your friends and meet the artist, Patte Armato Lund, after the concert. Emerson House, 420 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.
“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”
Jan. 10, 7 p.m. One of the most enduring shows of all time, this irresistible family musical tells the Biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colors. Directed and choreographed by Andy Blankenbuehler. Coronado Performing Arts Center (CPAC), 314 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.
Showcase of Talent
Jan. 15-16, 7:30 p.m. Enjoy southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois’ wealth of highly talented individuals and groups. Monroe Arts Center, 1315 11th St., Monroe, Wis., (608) 325-5700, monroeartscenter.com.
RSO: SoundBites
Jan. 15, noon. Join Rockford Symphony Orchestra Music Director Steven Larsen for an informal and enlightening discussion with the guest artists appearing with the RSO on the Classic Series concert. Conversations usually last approximately 60 minutes, but participants may come and go as they please. Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club, 5151 Guilford Road, Rockford, (815) 965-0049. rockfordsymphony.com.
Comedy on Main: Kent Rader
Jan. 15, 8-9:30 p.m. Enjoy a night of laughs and a cash bar available throughout the evening. Janesville Performing Arts Center, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.
Brian Regan: Live in Concert
Jan. 15, 8 p.m. One of the premier comedians in the country gives a performance with sophisticated writing and perfected physicality, with a comedy that appeals to multiple generations. Egyptian Theatre, 135 N. 2nd St., DeKalb, Ill., (815) 758-1215, egyptiantheatredekalb.ticketforce.com.
RSO: Chamber Orchestra Concert
Jan. 15 & 17. The RSO plays pieces selected for a smaller orchestra with a romantic and contemporary mood and a lively nod to Shakespeare. Presented in alternative locations and concert times. Fri: Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2821 N. Bell School Road, Rockford. Sun: Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 3300 Rural St., Rockford. Tickets: (815) 965-0049, rockfordsymphony.com.
Music in the Back Door Lounge
Jan. 16, 8-11 p.m. Enjoy live rock and country music, dinner and seasonal beer. Starved Rock Lodge, Starved Rock State Park, IL Rts. 178 & 71, Utica, Ill.,
starvedrocklodge.com.
Come With Me, Come With Me to See the World!
Jan. 17, 2-3:30 p.m. Join local storyteller and veteran teaching artist Eddie Baran for this special family show. Listen to and participate in stories from India, Africa, the U.S., Japan, Europe and Native-American nations. Janesville Performing Arts Center, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.
Music on Main: Songs of Shakespeare’s Era
Jan. 18, 5:30 p.m. Experience beautiful music, mingle with the performance artists, enjoy a glass of wine and light refreshments, and have fun with your friends at this brief and intimate after-work concert with classically inspired performances. Emerson House, Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.
Open Mic and Poetry Slam
Jan. 19, 6-8 p.m. Enjoy an interactive event in which the audience listens to and judges some of the best poetry in Rockford. To participate, have at least two original poems of less than three minutes. Nordlof Center, Black Box Theater, 118 N. Main St., Rockford, (847) 561-8224, facebook.com/RockfordCertifiedSlam.
Page to Stage: A Local Playwright Showcase
Jan. 22, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Join passionate local playwrights as they share exceptional scenes, songs and highlights from original plays and musicals. Janesville Performing Arts Center, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.
Independently Released
Jan. 24, 2-4 p.m. Meet Rock County’s hidden talents in publishing, writing and music production with this first-time expo event as part of Local Talent Month. Free. Janesville Performing Arts Center, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.
Chamber Concert
Jan. 24, 3 p.m. Join Lake Geneva Symphony Orchestra for an afternoon of musical excellence. Immanuel Lutheran Church, 700 N. Bloomfield, Lake Geneva, (262) 359-9072, lakegenevaorchestra.org.
Music on Main: Scott Metlicka, Flute
Jan. 25, 5:30 p.m. Experience beautiful music from RSO’s principal flute, mingle with RSO artists, enjoy a glass of wine and light refreshments, and have fun with your friends at this brief and intimate after-work concert with classically inspired performances. Emerson House, Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.
WNIU Encore: Chamber Orchestra Concert
Jan. 25, 7 p.m. “Encore” on WNIU is a series which airs monthly on 90.5 WNIU radio. Host Eric Hradecky presents a broadcast of the RSO’s Classic Series concerts and commentary from Maestro Steven Larsen. Classical WNIU, 90.5 DeKalb, 105.7 Rockford, rockfordsymphony.com.
Freeport High School Band Concert
Jan. 26, 7:30 p.m. Join the Freeport High School Band Program for its 103rd annual formal band concert. This year’s program features the FHS Concert Band under the direction of Mr. Matt Eaton, and the FHS Symphonic Band under the baton of Mr. Bill Petersen. Jeannette Lloyd Theatre, 701 W. Empire St., Freeport, (815) 990-1730, stephenson-county-il.org.
“Menopause the Musical”
Jan. 27, 7:30 p.m. Four women at a lingerie sale have nothing in common but a black lace bra and memory loss, hot flashes, night sweats, not enough sex, too much sex and more. This hilarious musical parody set to classic tunes from the 1960s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles. Part of Broadway at the Coronado. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.
The Orchesis Student Dance Company
Jan. 28-30, 7:30 p.m. Witness a dance production by the current students of the dance program under the direction of Assistant Professor of Dance Amy Wright. Maddox Theatre, Rockford University, 5050 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 226-4000, rockford.edu.
An Evening with The Manhattan Medium
Jan. 28, 7:30 p.m. Enjoy an intimate evening with medium Thomas John, “The Manhattan Medium,” as he shares stories with Emmy award-winning journalist Jenniffer Weigel about his years of being able to talk to the dead. Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 406 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.
Bell’s Blues & Jazz Night
Jan. 29, 11 a.m. Listen to live blues and jazz tunes while enjoying different beers on tap throughout the day. The Olympic Tavern, 2327 N. Main St., Rockford, (815) 962-8758, theolympictavern.com.
Folk at 408
Jan. 30, 7-10 p.m. Proceeds from this showcase of Wisconsin’s singer/songwriter community will go toward the “Arts for Everyone” scholarship program. Janesville Performing Arts Center, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.
February
Crowns: The Gospel Musical
Feb. 3-13, Wed., Thu., Fri. 8 p.m.; Sat. & Sun. 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. The story follows Yolonda, a proud, tough girl from Brooklyn who moves to South Carolina after the shooting of her brother. Studio Theatre at Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford, (815) 921-2160, rockvalleycollege.edu/community/theatre.
Classic Film Series: 1916’s Greatest Actors
Feb. 3, 1 p.m. & 7 p.m. This series features films with actors who were born in 1916. In the latest installment, watch “Lust for Life!” (1954) starring Kirk Douglas. Lindo Theatre, Freeport, (815) 233-0025, classiccinemas.com.
Marrying Terry
Feb. 5-7, 12-14, Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. This romantic comedy of hate-at-first-sight follows 35-year-old librarian Terry Adams and like-named Dr. Terry Adams as they meet on New Year’s Eve and share an unforgettable adventure. Janesville Performing Arts Center, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.
RCCA: The Band of The Royal Marines & The Scots Guards
Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m. Excelling at musical quality, visual grandeur and precision drill, the band’s repertoire includes popular classics, Big Band, contemporary works and solo features. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 847-6314, rccaconcerts.org.
Wolak & Donnelly
Feb. 8, 7 p.m. Armed with a clarinet, a piano and their personable stage presence, Kornel Wolak and Chris Donnelly present a remarkable blend of classical and jazz music. Sauk Valley Community Concert Association (SVCCA), Dixon High School, Lincoln Statue Dr., Dixon, Ill., (815) 288-2501, svcca.org.
Moon Over Buffalo
Feb. 12-28. George and Charlotte Hay, fading stars of the 1950s, might just have one last shot at stardom. Unfortunately for them, everything that could go wrong does. Pec Playhouse Theatre, 314 Main St., Pecatonica, Ill., (815) 239-1210, pecplayhouse.org.
The Odd Couple
Feb. 12, 14, 20 female version; Feb. 13, 19, 21 male version, Fri.-Sat. 7 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. The Battle of the Sexes takes a twist as characters battle it out over Trivial Pursuit, housekeeping, the dashing Constanzuela brothers, poker, living in a shared space and the lovely Pidgeon sisters. Main Street Players, 111 W. 1st St., Belvidere, (800) 741-2963, mainstreetplayersofboonecounty.com.
David Lisker, Violin
Feb. 12, 7:30 p.m. Lisker, described as an “exquisite virtuoso violinist” by the Chicago Sun-Times, has appeared as a soloist, chamber musician and orchestral performer in many of today’s most prestigious concert halls. Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.
RSO: SoundBites
Feb. 12, noon. Join Music Director Steven Larsen for informal and enlightening discussions with Scott Metlicka, flute, and the RSO trombone section before they appear in concert. Free. Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club, Rockford, (815) 965-0049, rockfordsyphony.com.
Lee Brice: Life Off My Years Tour
Feb. 12, 7:30 p.m. The “evocative, rough-edged” country singer and musical compadre Tyler Farr take the stage. BMO Harris Bank Center, Rockford, (815) 968-5600, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.
The Price is Right Live!
Feb. 12, 8 p.m. This interactive stage show gives eligible individuals the chance to “come on down” to win. Prizes may include appliances, vacations and possibly a new car. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 968-2722, coronadopac.org.
Land of Lincoln Theatre Organ Society
Feb. 13, 9:30 a.m. coffee and conversation, 10 a.m. musical program. The Land of Lincoln Theatre Organ Society (LOLTOS) socials are open to the public and admission is free. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 239-9088, coronadopac.org/about/residentcompanies.
Evening in Paris
Feb. 13, 7 p.m. Join Lake Geneva Symphony Orchestra for an evening of exquisite music. Riviera Ballroom, 812 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva, (262) 359-9072, lakegenevaorchestra.org.
RSO Artists in the Spotlight
Feb. 13, 7:30 p.m. Enjoy a program featuring RSO’s principal flute, Scott Metlicka, and the RSO Trombone section. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.
Gaelic Storm – Live in Concert!
Feb. 13, 7:30 p.m. Watch this chart-topping, multi-national Celtic band perform old favorites and new songs from their latest release, “Matching Sweaters.” Egyptian Theatre, DeKalb, Ill., (815) 758-1215, egyptiantheatredekalb.ticketforce.com.
Open Mic and Poetry Slam
Feb. 16, 6-8 p.m. Enjoy an interactive event in which the audience listens to and judges some of the best poetry in Rockford. To participate, have at least two original poems of less than three minutes. Free. Nordlof Center, Black Box Theater, Rockford, (847) 561-8224, facebook.com/RockfordCertifiedSlam.
Bower City Theatre Performance
Feb. 19-21, 26-28, Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. This performance is a surprise based on public votes. Janesville Performing Arts Center, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.
Beloit International Film Festival
Feb. 19-28. Meet more than 100 filmmakers and view hundreds of features, documentaries and shorts. Info/Tickets: Beloit International Film Festival, 444 E. Grand Ave., Suite 100, Beloit, (608) 312-4256, beloitfilmfest.org.
Love Songs Tribute Show
Feb. 22-23, 11:30 a.m.-2:45 p.m. Peter Oprisko can sing as many as 700 love songs on command. Watch him perform the top-requested love songs of all time. Lunch included. Call (815) 220-7386 to request a show date. Starved Rock Lodge, Starved Rock State Park, Utica, Ill., starvedrocklodge.com.
“Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”
Feb. 23-27, Tues.-Sat. 7:30 p.m. Enjoy the tale of Sweeney Todd, a barber who returns from exile seeking revenge on the man who ruined his life and destroyed his family. With the help of his downstairs neighbor, Mrs. Lovett, Todd cooks up a horrifying scheme to fill the finest meat pies in London. Barnett Theatre, UW-Whitewater, 950 W. Main St., Whitewater, Wis., (262) 472-2222, uww.edu.
WNIU Encore: RSO Artists in the Spotlight
Feb. 25, 7 p.m. “Encore” on WNIU is a series which airs monthly on 90.5 WNIU. Host Eric Hradecky presents a broadcast of the RSO’s Classic Series concerts and commentary from Maestro Steven Larsen. Classical WNIU, 90.5 DeKalb, 105.7 Rockford, rockfordsymphony.com.
Disney on Ice Presents: Treasure Trove
Feb. 25-28, various times. A magical medley of Disney tales are jam-packed into one show on ice that commemorates the legacy of Disney’s beloved animated films. BMO Harris Bank Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford, (815) 968-5222, thebmoharrisbankcenter.com.
Charlotte’s Web: Peter Mulvey
Feb. 26, 7:30 p.m. Writer and musician Peter Mulvey has the rare ability to gracefully introduce complex and provocative concepts and characters using his wit, humor and a subtle, yet sophisticated melodic and harmonic sensibility. Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.
The Ugly Duckling
Feb. 27, time TBD. Rockford Dance Company transports you to a warm, tropical rainforest where many fantastic, powerful creatures reside. Follow the story of Seraphina, a little duck who is trying to live up to the big standards of her family. Nordlof Center, Rockford, (815) 963-3341, rockforddancecompany.com.
Arthur D. Montzka Memorial Concert
Feb. 27, 7:30 p.m. This concert features this season’s winner of the Arthur D. Montzka Young Artists Concerto Competition. NIU Boutell Concert Hall, DeKalb, Ill., (815) 756-3728, kishorchestra.org.
Four Guyz in Dinner Jackets
Feb. 27, 7:30 p.m. Experience classic Americana that spans the genres of doo-wop and rock ‘n’ roll, as the Four Guyz serve up the best of their best. Monroe Arts Center, Gunderson Stiles Concert Hall, Monroe, Wis., (608) 325-5700, monroeartscenter.com.
“Celebrating Russian Composers”
Feb. 28, 3 p.m. Described by the Chicago Tribune as “an ensemble that invites you – ears, mind and spirit – into its music,” the Avalon String Quartet has established itself as one of the country’s leading chamber music ensembles. Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.
Rockford Wind Ensemble Concert
Feb. 28, 3 p.m. Now in its 15th season, Rockford Wind Ensemble’s performances include a remarkable range of musical styles. Nordlof Center, J.R. Sullivan Theater, Rockford, (815) 227-8550, rockfordwindensemble.org.
March
Classic Film Series: 1916’s Greatest Actors
March 2, 1 p.m. & 7 p.m. This series features films with actors who were born in 1916. Watch “3:10 to Yuma” (1957) starring Glenn Ford. Lindo Theatre, Freeport, (815) 233-0025, stephenson-county-il.org.
Seussical Junior
March 4, 7 p.m. All of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in this fantastical musical extravaganza from Tony winners Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. Janesville Performing Arts Center, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.
The Flying Fool
March 5, 2-4:30 p.m. For more than 20 years, Ken Schultz, “The Flying Fool,” has been dazzling audiences across the United States & Canada. Schultz uses a symphony of juggling, physical comedy, humor and improvisation. Janesville Performing Arts Center, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.
Rockford Laugh-A-Thon w/ Rickey Smiley
March 5, 7 p.m. Comedy legend Rickey Smiley brings his sharp sense of humor and turns everyday observations into comedic gold. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 968-2722, coronadopac.org.
Comedy on Main: John Bush
March 5, 8-9:30 p.m. Enjoy a night of laughs and a cash bar available throughout the evening. Janesville Performing Arts Center, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.
RCCA: Polish Baltic Philharmonic Orchestra
March 6, 3 p.m. The Philharmonic organizes concerts, recitals and chamber music soirees performed by the most prominent Polish musicians and world-famous artists. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 847-6314, rccaconcerts.org.
RSYO Chamber Orchestra Concert
March 6, 3 p.m. Enjoy the sounds of one of Illinois’ leading youth orchestras. Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, Rockford, rockfordsymphony.org.
Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike
March 10-13, 18-20, Thu.-Sat. 7:30-9:30 p.m., Sun. 2-4 p.m. This story focuses on the relationships of three middle-aged single siblings, two of whom live together. When the third sibling, Masha, visits, they discuss their lives and loves, argue, then Masha threatens to sell the house. Janesville Performing Arts Center, Janesville, (608) 758-0297, janesvillepac.org.
Shen Yun
March 11, Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 2 p.m. Through music and dance, Shen Yun takes you on a journey through 5,000 years of authentic Chinese culture. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 968-2722, coronadopac.org.
“Mary Poppins”
March 10-13, 16-20, Thu.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. Young Jane and Michael have sent many nannies packing, until Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family how to value each other again. Stage Coach Players Theater, 126 S. 5th St., DeKalb, Ill., (815) 759-1940, stagecoachers.com.
“Outside Mullingar”
March 11-26, Thu.-Sun., times vary. Cupid has his work cut out for him with shy Anthony and stubborn Rosemary, who live on neighboring farms outside Mullingar, Ireland. Rockford University, Cheek Theatre, 5050 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 394-5004, artistsensemble.org.
RSO: SoundBites
March 11, noon. Join Music Director Steven Larsen for informal and enlightening discussions with RSO guest artist Joseph Schenk, before he appears in concert. Free. Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club, Rockford, (815) 965-0049, rockfordsyphony.com.
RSO: Chamber Orchestra Concert
March 11 & 13, Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. Julliard graduate Joseph Schenk plays the organ for this unique Baroque experience that includes Handel and Bach’s Cantata – Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2821 N. Bell School Road, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.
The Legend of Robin Hood … Sort Of
March 11-13, 18, 19, Fri.-Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. Hitch up your gauntlets and get ready to laugh at this timeless tale. Vince Carney Community Theatre (VCCT), James N. Paddock Memorial Hall, 1133 N. 7th St., Rochelle, Ill., (815) 764-2287, vcctrochelle.org.
A Closer Walk with Patsy Cline
March 12, 7:30 p.m. This upbeat musical reveals the emotional depth and vocal range of Patsy Cline, a singer whose career made history and defined the term “crossover hit” by simultaneously dominating country, blues, pop and gospel charts. Monroe Arts Center, Gunderson Stiles Concert Hall, Monroe, Wis., (608) 325-5700, monroeartscenter.com.
DanceScapes ’16
March 13-15, Sun. 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., Mon.-Tues. 7:30 p.m. Witness choreography by UW-Whitewater faculty, students and guest artist Karla Grotting come to life in an imaginative and powerful way. Barnett Theatre, UW-Whitewater, Whitewater, Wis., (262) 472-2222, uww.edu.
RCCA: Celtic Woman
March 13, 3 p.m. Multi-platinum Irish music sensation Celtic Woman returns to North America with a new show celebrating the release of their new album and DVD. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 847-6314, rccaconcerts.org.
Chamber Concert
March 13, 3 p.m. Join Lake Geneva Symphony Orchestra for an afternoon of musical excellence. Holy Communion Episcopal Church, 320 Broad St., Lake Geneva, (262) 359-9072, lakegenevaorchestra.org.
Open Mic and Poetry Slam
March 15, 6-8 p.m. Enjoy an interactive event in which the audience listens to and judges some of the best poetry in Rockford. To participate, have at least two original poems of less than three minutes. Free. Nordlof Center, Black Box Theater, Rockford, (847) 561-8224, facebook.com/RockfordCertifiedSlam.
Flashdance the Musical
March 16, 7:30 p.m. With electrifying dance at its core, this is the inspiring story of Alex Owens, a Pittsburgh steel mill welder by day and a bar dancer by night with dreams of one day becoming a professional performer. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 968-0595, coronadopac.org.
An Evening with S. Carey
March 19, 7:30 p.m. Carey’s latest album is a dazzling array of musical light and shade, drawn from a love of jazz, modern classical and Americana. Monroe Arts Center, Gunderson Stiles Concert Hall, (608) 325-5700, monroeartscenter.com.
Dueling Pianos
March 21-23, 11:30 a.m.-2:45 p.m. This interactive musical comedy experience will have you singing, shouting, dancing and laughing. Lunch included. Starved Rock Lodge, Starved Rock State Park, Utica, Ill., (800) 868-7625, starvedrocklodge.com.
Music on Main: Piano Duets
March 21, 5:30 p.m. Experience beautiful music, mingle with the artists, enjoy a glass of wine and light refreshments, and have fun with your friends. Emerson House, Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.
WNIU Encore: Chamber Orchestra Concert
March 21, 7 p.m. “Encore” on WNIU is a series which airs monthly on 90.5 WNIU. Host Eric Hradecky presents a broadcast of the RSO’s Classic Series concerts and commentary from Maestro Steven Larsen. Classical WNIU, 90.5 DeKalb, Ill., 105.7 Rockford, rockfordsymphony.com.
Much Ado About Nothing
March 23-April 2, Wed.-Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. & Sun. 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. Celebrate the 400th anniversary of The Bard’s passing with this performance of his classic tale. Studio Theatre at Rock Valley College, (815) 921-2160,
rockvalleycollege.edu/community/theatre.
Peppa Pig’s Big Splash Live!
March 25, 6 p.m. This action-packed live show delivers an unforgettable theater experience to preschoolers and young fans. Dozens of familiar and original songs, as well as an interactive sing-along, will have fans laughing, singing, dancing and jumping in muddy puddles just like Peppa. CPAC, Rockford, (815) 968-5222, coronadopac.org.
Charlotte’s Web: Red Tail Ring
March 25, 7:30 p.m. Two old-time-minded musical geniuses infuse songs with musical imagination, haunting harmonies and instrumental artistry on fiddle, banjo, mandolin, jawharp and plain-old foot stomping. Emerson House, Rockford, (815) 964-9713, mendelssohnpac.org.