#2: “Scheherazade” at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, May 12-14
The Phoenix Symphony, conducted by maestro Teddy Abrams, performs Rimsky-Korsakov’s seductive symphonic suite based on tales from “Arabian Nights.” The program includes Stravinsky’s “Scherzo a la Russe” and Shostakovich’s “Cello Concerto No. 1.” $39-$59. 7:30 p.m. May 12 at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. phoenixsymphony.org
#3: Neil deGrasse Tyson at Comerica Theatre, May 12
Audiences get astrophysical with the host of “Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey” on Tyson’s national speaking tour. Dwarf galaxies, star formations, the Milky Way and supernovas are just a few of the topics likely on tap for this engaging “Evening with Neil deGrasse Tyson.” $35-$79.50. 7:30 p.m. May 12 at Comerica Theatre. comericatheatre.com
#4: Flamexico! at Mesa Arts Center, May 13-14
Scottsdale dance troupe Jacome Flamenco celebrates the musical confluence of Spain’s flamenco and Mexico’s mariachi with this performance featuring nine artists, fiery footwork, and a storm of strummed six-strings. Artistic Director Chris Jacome will give a pre-show talk at 7 p.m. May 14. $25. 7:30 p.m. May 13 and 14 at Mesa Arts Center. mesaartscenter.com
#5: The Duck Variations at Space 55 Theatre, May 9-17
In this original play by David Mamet, two old men sit around talking about the ways of ducks and philosophizing about life. Starring Duane Daniels and Doug Waldo, directed by Megan Holcomb. $5.55. 8 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays May 9-17 at Space 55 Theatre. space55.org
About the main image:
“Omayra and Sumer (after Lois Mailou Jones),” by El Mac, 2014, aerosol on burlap
