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Red Hot and Cole, January 26-February 19
Dive into the dramatic backstory of the talented and extravagant Cole Porter, the famed Broadway composer of Anything Goes and Kiss Me, Kate. This two-act revue tells the tale of the songwriter’s youth, his worldwide success, and the crippling horseback riding accident that nearly ended his career. Attendees familiar with Porter can look forward to 25 of his most famous songs, while those who are less knowledgeable will enjoy a crash course on one of the most seminal figures in American musical theater. Thu 8-10 p.m.
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, January 27-29
Based on Mark Twain’s timeless novel of the same name, this musical adaptation tells the story of a 14-year-old boy growing up in the fictional town of St. Petersburg, Missouri. Talented young actors take the stage as Tom, Aunt Polly, Becky Thatcher, and Huckleberry Finn, depicting life along the banks of the Mississippi River in 1876 with authenticity and pizzazz. Theater-goers can enjoy thrilling escapes, unforgettable antics, and catchy musical numbers that will make anyone—young or old—want to sing along. Fri 7 p.m.; Sat 2 p.m., 7 p.m.; Sun 2 p.m.
UFC Fight Night: Shevchenko vs Peña, January 28
A full slate of matches and elite fighters means Ultimate Fighting’s return to Denver will be full of spectacle. This night’s main card features the heavy hands of top-ranked Kyrgyzstan fighter Valentina Shevchenko versus second-ranked American takedown specialist Julianna Peña. But that’s not all you get for your money: 10 matches will occur before the main fight to ensure you get your full UFC fix. Sat 2 p.m.
Daddy Daughter Snow Ball, January 28
Don’t be fooled by the name—all parents are welcome at this winter wonderland ball. Dust off your best formal attire for a night of dancing with your little ones. Then, take a break from the dance floor with desserts from the hot chocolate bar and fun winter-themed activities, such as the melted snowman cake walk. Sat 6:30 p.m.
Himalayan DocuDays Screening for Nepal, January 29
Westerners attempting to scale Mount Everest may not realize they’re putting a Nepalese family’s breadwinner in extreme peril. This gripping documentary—already shown at film festivals in New Zealand, Toronto, Telluride, and Sydney—delves deep into the lives of the Sherpas who take great risks while leading adventurers up and down the mountain. Proceeds benefit the Mighty Yak Foundation’s Operation Greenhouse, which aims to bring safe economic development to Nepal. Sun 1 p.m.
–Image courtesy of Perth International Arts Festival