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Black Grace, April 5
When choreographing shows, Black Grace founder and artistic director Neil Ieremia draws upon his Samoan and Maori roots. For their sole performance in the Mile High City, the New Zealand–based dancers—who are known for their power and finesse on stage—will tell the story of their heritage with an emotive routine that blends traditional slap dance steps with contemporary moves. Wed 7:30 p.m. Newman Center for the Performing Arts, 2344 E. Iliff Ave., 303-871-7720. $23-$78.
The Healing Power of Baseball, April 5 to May 8
Before you head to Coors Field for opening day, check out Denverite Kyle Banister’s tribute to America’s favorite sport. In vibrant works, the multimedia artist explores baseball’s impact on national history and family traditions. During the opening reception, viewers can meet the creator and write their own game-related anecdotes to add to a collaborative display. Dates, times vary. Larimer Square, 1430 Larimer St., 303-534-2367. Free.
Horseshoes & Hand Grenades with the Sweet Lillies, April 6
After taking third place at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival in 2012, these college-friends-turned-bandmates have continued to build a name for themselves in the Americana music scene. During this show, the five-man ensemble will play tunes off of its most recent release, Middle Western, as well as their two previous albums. Bonus: They’ll share the stage with Front Range natives the Sweet Lillies, a folk group well known for its high-energy sound, original songwriting, and catchy vocal-driven melodies. Thu 9 p.m. Fox Theatre, 1135 13th St., Boulder, 303-447-0095. $13-$15.
Covering the Movements Changing America, April 7
Meet award-winning investigative journalist and Democracy Now! host Amy Goodman when she stops in the Mile High City on this fund-raising tour. After her colleague Denis Moynihan—the founder of Winter Park’s community radio station—introduces her, Goodman will give a keynote speech on the role of independent journalism during politically tense times. Then attendees can enjoy a musical performance by local hip-hop group 2MX2 and buy copies of the reporters’ latest book at the after-party. Proceeds benefit local media organizations, including Denver Open Media and KFFR 88.3 FM. Fri 7:30-9 p.m. Su Teatro Cultural and Performing Arts Center, 721 Santa Fe Dr., 303-296-0219. $25-$100.
ACH IPA Beer Release & Comedy, April 8
You’ve gone to plenty of beer and cheese events—this week, try pairing suds with comedy instead. At this release party, try the tangy new ACH IPA, a brew created through a partnership between local comedian Adam Cayton-Holland and Ratio Beerworks. As you savor the lemony beverage, watch its namesake (and several other local side-splitters) deliver a hilarious stand-up performance. Sat noon-10 p.m. Ratio Beerworks, 2920 Larimer St., 303-997-8288. Free.