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Todd Goldman Meet the Artist/AuthorMay 13
He could be a jilted ex-boyfriend, or a victim of a gold-digging woman. Either way, post-pop artist Goldman pokes fun at some of society’s most hilarious contradictions. Goldman will introduce his new book and exhibit, “Boys are Stupid, Throw Rocks at Them” at a gallery opening event. His witty, sarcastic lithographs draw on Roy Lichtenstein’s comic stills to create social commentaries on today’s pop culture. Classic images include “Smoking Kills, but at Least You Look Cool” and “ExBoyfriend,” a work showing a smiling, content couple where the man’s face is crossed out. The exhibition continues through the end of May. Friday, 7 p.m., Fascination St. Galleries, 315 Detroit St. Free. Please RSVP at 303-333-1566 or email sandee@fascinationst.com.
Better than EzraMay 14
They met as college students in Louisiana, and eventually set the stage for the alternative pop revolution in the late 1990s. A roots rock band with hints of country and punk, the trio put out Deluxe in 1993, resulting in the top single “Good.” For their most recent album, Before the Robots, the bad boys from New Orleans have signed on with a new label, Independent Beyond Music. The album strays from their traditional guitar formula and delves into electronica and shades of Radiohead. Sat 8 p.m., Soiled Dove, 1949 Market St. $17 in advance, $20 at the door. For information call 303-830-9210.
Red Rocks TourMay 14
There’s more to this geologically unique concert venue than excellent acoustics and a killer view. Tom “Dr. Colorado” Noel, author of Sacred Stones: Colorado’s Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, will explain the park’s sacred significance to Ute Indians, and the history of how John Brisen Walker realized its potential for an amphitheatre. The tour ends with a walk-through of the $24 million renovation of the park and visitor center. A catered continental breakfast is included. Saturday 10 a.m., Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Red Rocks Park. 2901 Ship Rock Rd., Morrison. $30 for members, $35 for non-members. For more information, call 303-866-4641.
The Honorable Ann RichardsMay 16
The 45th governor of the Lone Star state shoots from the hip with her witty and thought-provoking discussion of women and the state of the country. Richards will talk about her battle with osteoporosis and her drive to overcome the disease and educate other women. This spitfire will get you hooting and hollering in the aisles. Monday 7:30 p.m., Denver Performing Arts Complex, 14th and Curtis streets. Ticket prices vary. For more information, call 877-872-8124.
Outward Bound Black Tie and Tennis Shoe GalaMay 14
Colorado’s obsession with the outdoors lends itself to some interesting outfit combos. (Admit it, you’ve worn your Merrell day-hikers to the martini bar.) Outward Bound’s annual benefit unabashedly invites you to don a tuxedo and tennis shoes and jump on a zipline, climb a four-story climbing wall, and traverse a “Burma Bridge” 50 feet high. Once you’re good and tired, sit down for a four-course meal and hear inspirational stories of Outward Bound students. An auction will give away journeys to the Galapagos Islands and other international destinations. Saturday 5 p.m., Universal Lending Pavilion at the Pepsi Center, 1000 Chopper Circle. Ticket prices vary. For more information call 720-497-2458.