Arts & Performance

Experience a night of jazz unlike any other. Read more about Jack DeJohnette’s Made in Chicago

Start with a decorated American soldier, throw in a dash of brainwashing, a few pinches of dastardly schemes plus a beautifully scored opera, and what do you get? The world premiere of The Manchurian Candidate, performed by the Minnesota Opera this month. Based on the novel by Richard Condon, the opera follows soldier Raymond Shaw as he is brainwashed into becoming a ruthless assassin against the U.S. government. Will his fellow soldier be able to stop him before the end of this heart-pounding thriller? Formal opera attire is not required at this performance. $25–$200. Times vary. Read more about The Manchurian Candidate

You might have seen some viral YouTube videos of this stellar a cappella quintet known as Pentatonix; the most popular are their Daft Punk remix, holiday songs and “The Evolution of Music.” Join Scott Hoying, Mitch Grassi, Kirstin Maldonado, Avi Kaplan and Kevin Olusola as they celebrate their fourth album in one year to debut in the top ten on Billboard’s charts. $29.50–$59.50. 8 p.m. Read more about Pentatonix: On My Way Home Tour

Relating the experiences of war to civilians can often be a difficult experience for returning veterans. The Telling Project has been working since 2008 to facilitate person-to-person contact between audiences and members of the military to build community and support networks through performance. Telling features a cast of Minnesota military members, veterans and their families performing a script based off of their own experiences for an emotionally poignant show. Read more about Telling: Minnesota 2015

The Children’s Theatre Company is proud to present an adaptation of Mark Twain’s classic tale, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Adapted for the stage by director Greg Banks, the audience can join Huck and Jim on their journey down the Mississip’ as the actors bring this entertaining and heartwarming tale to life. Recommended for ages 8 and up.  Adults $10–$58; children 4 and up $10–$38; children 3 and under $5. Show times vary; check online. 2400 3rd Ave. S., Mpls.; 612.874.0400; childrenstheatre.org. Read more about Huck Finn

Sit back and soak in this choral music performance of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. At their winter concert, the National Lutheran Choir hopes to inspire audiences and spotlight the importance of perseverance. Originally an autobiography, published in 1969 by Maya Angelou, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings moves audiences in this musical adaptation. $10–$25. 4 p.m. Woodlake Lutheran Church, 7525 Oliver Ave. S., Mpls.; 612.866.8449; nlca.com. Read more about A Concert of Hope

To many, the sounds of Jazz are just that—sounds. The intermingling of instruments, with their syncopated rhythms and unpredictable melodies, can seem like gibberish to those who haven’t played or studied jazz. This class will investigate the cultural, historical and personal stories of the jazz movement. You might even be tapping your feet on your way out the door. $5 for Walker Art Center members. 2–3 p.m. Lecture Room, Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.; 612.375.7600; members.walkerart.org. Read more about What Is Great Jazz?

In a celebration of 5,000 years of civilization, the Shen Yun Performing Arts brings you on a journey through the art of Chinese dance, music and performance. Watch classical Chinese dance, considered one of the most rigorous yet beautiful art forms; hold your breath as you watch the stunning costumes and visual displays; and experience the magical tales that have inspired a culture. Classic opera or ballet performance attire is recommended. Ages 5 and up. $50–$150. 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Read more about Shen Yun

Fine artists and crafters are invited to apply for a booth at Minnesota’s premier art fair, which will take place June 5-7. Portfolio submissions will be judged in 12 categories, spanning everything from fiber art and green art to wearable and two-dimensional art. The event draws an average of 180,000 visitors and 300 vendors annually and was voted Top Fine Arts Fair in Minnesota in 2013. Rent a 10-by-10-foot booth for $440 or a 10-by-20-foot booth for $880. Discounted hotel rates also available to artists. $35 application fee. Application closes midnight CST. Read more about Edina Art Fair Application Deadline

Show your support for more than 200 competitive dancers from the Edina community as they kick off their competition season. All proceeds and merchandise sales will benefit a specific initiative of the Edina Community Foundation’s Connecting with Kids program. Last year, the event raised more than $3,000 for Minnesota Breast Cancer Coalition. Performances by dancers ages 5 to 18 run the gamut of styles, including tap, jazz and hip-hop. Read more about Platinum Dance Center Charity Showcase