» Exhibits «
25 Years of Art and Radical Pedagogy
Through May 7 at Union for Contemporary Art, 2423 N. 24th St. Rooted in love, relationships, collaboration, and self-determination, this retrospective of the last 25 years of community collaboration was presented in 2021 at DePaul University in Chicago and is now traveling to The Union. 1-8 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 402.933.3161.
8 PrintMakers & 1 Quilter
Through May 8 at Roberta and Bob Rogers Gallery, 1806 Vinton St. As a storyteller each artist has ideas, feelings and thoughts to express, share and show. Features the works of eight fine art printmakers and one fine art quilter. Admission: Free. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. 402.496.4797.
Spring 2022 BFA Thesis / BASA Senior Exhibitions
Through May 13 at University of Nebraska at Omaha, Weber Fine Arts Building, 6505 University Drive S. A showcase of artwork by the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Spring 2022 graduating BFA and BASA students. Admission: Free. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Thursdays.
Nebraska: Flatwater
Through June 26 at Gallery 1516, 1516 Leavenworth St. The name “Nebraska” was derived from an Indigenous term meaning “flat water.” Nebraska: Flatwater is an immersive video installation that will explore the natural beauty of the state throughout the four seasons. A series of projectors around the gallery will surround you with the changing landscape, with scenes including autumn wheat fields, roaming bison, and snow on the Platte River. Admission: Free. Open by appointment only. 531.375.6643
En Linea/In Line, Documentary Photography by Francisco Mata Rosas
Through June 30 at El Museo Latino, 4701 S. 25th St. The photographs of Francisco Mata Rosas that make up this series emerge directly from that world of arched appearances and twisted identities, crossed by the long and sinuous scar of the border. The border has gained fame as a place of extravagant imagery where kitsch is the dominant note of a syncopated melody of bullets. Mata Rosas evades this convention to show us a deeper, less ornamental absurdity. Admission: $5 general, $4 college students with ID, $3.50 students (K-12) and seniors (55+), free to members and children under 5. 402.731.1137.
Nelson Mandela: The Official Exhibition
Through July 3 at Durham Museum, 801 S. 10th St. This exhibition takes visitors on a personal journey through the life of the world’s most iconic freedom fighter and political leader. Includes previously unseen film, photos and over 150 historical artifacts on loan. Admission: $11 adults, $8 seniors (62+), $7 children (3-12), free for members and children 2 and under. Noon-4 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, Closed Mondays. 402.444.5071.
Maya Dunietz: Root of Two
Starting May 7 at Bemis Center, 724 S. 12th St. This solo exhibition by Maya Dunietz engages the physicality of sound through a series of installations encompassing the entirety of Bemis Center’s 13,000-square-foot gallery space. The works become an ensemble, connecting with each other through the viewer’s experience. Admission: free. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays. 402.341.7130.
Paradise on Earth: The Art of Marcel Mouly
Through August 20 at El Museo Latino, 4701 S. 25th St. Marcel Mouly’s boldly colored, semi-abstract artwork appeals to private and public collectors around the world. Whether they are still lifes, landscapes, interiors, boats, or port scenes, Mouly’s works are collected with equal enthusiasm. Mouly created his unique style after studying under the tradition of modern art masters such as Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso. Admission: $5 general, $4 college students with ID, $3.50 students (K-12) and seniors (55+), free to members and children under 5. 402.731.1137.
The History of Historically Black Colleges & Universities
Through Dec. 30 at Great Plains Black History Museum, 2221 N. 24th St. Over a 12-month period, this exhibit will highlight 107 HBCUs telling their history and the role they have played in providing quality higher education. HBCUs began with the Higher Education Act of 1965. It was passed and defined an HBCU as being “any historically black college or university that was established prior to 1964. Each month the GPBHM will feature 10 HBCUs by the year in which they were founded.
Rosita Relámpago
May 6-June 16 at Amplify Arts, 950 S 10th St., Rosita Relámpago, a multi-disciplinary artist based in Oaxaca, Mexico, will be in residence at Amplify Arts’ Generator Space, using the gallery as her studio, exhibition space, and a vehicle to collaborate with Omaha-area artists. Her time in Omaha will culminate in an exhibition that examines mutuality and interrelation as praxis opening Friday, June 10, at 6 p.m. 402.996.1092.
African American History Through Street Signs
May 6-June 25 at Great Plains Black History Museum, 2221 N. 24th St. This exhibit will focus on all the streets in Omaha that have been named after African Americans, and will also feature QRC codes placed on the signs throughout Omaha. Visits by appointment only. 402.932.7077.
Namaste India
Starting May 28 at Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S. 20th St. From Bollywood to the Taj Mahal, from playing cricket to practicing yoga, visitors will experience the wonders of India in the cultural exhibit Namaste India. While encouraging global awareness and cultural appreciation, the exhibit features the vibrant art, food and colorful traditions of this culture. Namaste India was produced by The Magic House. Admission: Free to members and under 24 months, $14 kids 2-15 and adults, $13 seniors (60+). 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. 402.342.6164.
Music
Alec Benjamin with Sara Kays
May 1 at The Admiral, 2234 S. 13th St. Benjamin has achieved more than 4 billion global streams, 10 million social media followers across his platforms, 70 million in playlist reach, and 1 billion YouTube views on his channel. He has delivered powerful performances of his songs on The Late Late Show with James Corden and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. 8 p.m. Tickets: $29.50 advanced, $35 day of show, $60 balcony.
Flying Buffalos
May 1 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St., Suite 95. Fueled by their desire to deliver the organic energy of rock-n-roll coupled with the lyrical honesty of classic country, Flying Buffaloes have found themselves opening for a range of acts including iconic rockers Drivin N Cryin as well as acclaimed Red Dirt Country artist Wade Bowen, in addition to headlining tours. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15-$100 GA, $250 VIP.
Grateful Shred
May 1 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. This Grateful Dead cover band manages to channel that elusive Dead vibe: wide-open guitar tones, effortless three-part vocal harmonies, choogling beats, and yes, plenty of tripped out, shredded solos. 8 p.m. Tickets: $20 advanced, $25 day of show. 402.884.5353.
Dorothy
May 3 at at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. This band was built around vocalist & songwriter Dorothy Martin. Born in Budapest and raised in San Diego, her Southern California roots paired with access to her family’s vinyl collection resulted in a laid back yet nasty rock sound. 8 p.m. Tickets: $19.50 advanced, $25 day of show, $95 VIP. 402.345.7569.
Heartless Bastards
May 3 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. This Ohio-bred and Texas-transplanted band’s new music affirms frontwoman Erika Wennerstrom as a songwriter with the power to profoundly influence, often by alchemizing her idealism into viscerally potent rock-and-roll songs. 8 p.m. Tickets: $22 advanced, $25 day of show. 402.884.5353.
Tech N9ne with Joey Cool, X Raided, and Mayday
May 3 at The Admiral, 2234 S. 13th St. Tech N9ne owns one of the most insane, influential, and impactful legacies in hip-hop. This Kansas City rapper has gone from Midwest underground shows to being on the playlists of Sir Elton John and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and being part of national commercials for the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. 8 p.m. Tickets: $35 advanced, $40 day of show, $60 balcony.
Jason Eady, Justin Wells, Ben Dahaner
May 3 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St., Suite 95. These three artists headline this evening of music that will spotlight Eady’s country music, Wells’ roots rock, and Dahaner’s folksy singing/songwriting. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15-$100 GA, $250 VIP.
Mudhoney
May 4 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Mudhoney is an American rock band formed in Seattle, Washington, in 1988. In 2021, Mudhoney and label Sub Pop celebrated the 30 year anniversary of their sophomore album, Every Good Boy Deserves Fudge, with a remastered, deluxe version. This included remastered and re-released music videos and songs as well as previously unreleased songs and demos. 8 p.m. Tickets: $22 advanced, $25 day of show, $32 balcony reserved, $35 pit-side reserved 402.345.7569.
Mat Kearney – The January Flower Tour
May 4 at The Admiral, 2234 S. 13th St. Nashville-based, Oregon-born Mat Kearney is back with his new studio album. Written between an isolated retreat in Joshua Tree and his home studio, it sees Kearney in his rawest form. 8 p.m. Tickets: $30 general admission, $60 balcony.
Beach Bunny
May 4 at The Waiting Room 6212 Maple St. On Honeymoon, the excellent debut album from Lili Trifilio’s songwriting project and four-piece band, it’s as if she’s singing about things everyone has felt before but never had the courage to put in words themselves. 8 p.m. Tickets: $23 advanced, $27 day of show. 402.884.5353.
Jason Boland and the Stragglers
May 5 at The Waiting Room 6212 Maple St. For the past 20 years, Jason Boland & the Stragglers have dazzled audiences all over as one of the leading ambassadors of the Oklahoma and Texas music movement. 8 p.m. Tickets: $23 advanced, $28 day of show. 402.884.5353.
Mayflowers 2022: Back in The Mud – Week 1
May 5, 12, 19, and 26 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. This multi-artist show features new artists each week. 8 p.m. $10 advanced, $12 day of show, $25 four-show pass. 402.884.5707
Field Day
May 6 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Reuniting ex-Dag Nasty bassist Doug Carrion and vocalist Peter Cortner, Field Day originally emerged in 2019, performing songs from their former group’s Wig Out at Denko’s (1987) and Field Day (1988) albums. The event includes Cordial Spew, Hand Painted Police Car, and Mere Shadows. 9 a.m. Tickets: $12 advanced, $15 day of show. 402.884.5707
Iration
May 6 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Iration has been touring nationally since 2008, performing at festivals nationwide from Lollapalooza to Sunfest and Hangout, closing stages at festivals like Bottlerock and Outside Lands. The Hawaiian-bred musicians look forward to spreading their original sound and ‘Aloha spirit’ all the while never forgetting to get a surf in when possible. 7 p.m. Tickets: $30 advanced, $35 day of show, $75 VIP. 402.345.7569.
Restless Road
May 6 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St., Suite 95. This country music band was formed, and finished fourth, in the third season of the American singing competition series The X Factor. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15 GA, $55 VIP.
Saturdays @ Stinson Concert Series
Starting May 7 at Stinson Park, 2285 S. 67th St. Food, drinks, face painting, and balloon artists will all be available during these live concerts, which feature talented bands from Omaha. 7-10 p.m. Admission: free. 402.496.1616
Kramos
May 7 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. Grounded in experience, the Kramos sound is unapologetically emotionally charged. Defined by layers of impassioned synths, lyrics with purpose, and moving vocal melodies, every Kramos song is uniquely crafted to make you feel something. 8 p.m. Tickets: $23 advanced, $28 day of show. 402.884.5353.
Viva Las Vegas with the Omaha Symphony
May 7-8 at Holland Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. Known for his entertainment shows and virtuoso piano technique, Moreno brings the hottest shows on the Vegas Strip to Omaha with hits from Chuck Berry, The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, and of course “The King,” Elvis Presley. Times: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $20-$89. 402.345.0606.
81355
May 8 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. 81355 (pronounced “bless”) is a voltronized collaboration between three of Indianapolis music scene’s elder statesmen, Sirius Blvck, Oreo Jones, and Sedcairn Archives. While the three have worked together in the past, contributing to one another’s projects as cameos and guest production, this is the first instance in which they have bonded together from conception to execution. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12 advanced/$15 day of show. 402.345.7569.
Trio 29
May 8 at the Jewell, 1030 Capitol Ave. Trio 29 is a new musical venture featuring keyboardist Henry Hey, drummer Eric Halvorson, and organist Mitch Towne. The group draws from myriad influences ranging from jazz, blues, funk, and soul to create music that is a blast for them to play and for the audience to experience. Tickets: $20. 917.748.4337
Twin Cities Takeover
May 8 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. This is a show of several hard-rocking bands hailing from the Twin Cities in Minnesota. By The Thousands, In Search of Solace, and Waste are sure to rock your face off. 7 p.m. Tickets: $15. 402.884.5707
Dizzy Wright, 10-year Smoke Out Conversations Tour
May 8 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. Wright is a rapper and producer. Wright’s debut studio album, Smokeout Conversations, was released on April 20, 2012, in honor of the annual marijuana holiday under Funk Volume. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15 advanced, TBD day of show. 402.884.5353.
Emiline
May 13 at the Holland Music Club, Holland Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. This 22-year-old vocalist, violinist and songwriter who possesses a smoky, jazz-infused, genre-fluid voice admirable as much for the range of traditional sounds she draws upon, as for her startling freshness—fresh, as in new and innovative as well as in attitude and sly humor. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $15. 402.345.0606
Chop Suey
May 13 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. Chop Suey is coming to deliver the euphoric and immersive experience that only they can deliver to the magic and might that is the unique sounds of System of A Down. This isn’t some cover band just trying to play the songs. This is an act that delivers the goods so well you can close your eyes and believe that it is the real thing. Tickets: $12 advanced, $15 day of show. 402.884.5353.
Hector Anchondo
May 13 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Local artist Hector Anchondo entered the 2020 International Blues Challenge in the solo/duo category and came away with the top prize. He also took home the Memphis Cigar Box Guitar Award for best guitarist in the solo/duo competition, where he performed representing the Blues Society of Omaha. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12 advanced $14 day of show. 402.345.7569.
Star Wars, Episode V, The Empire Strikes Back
May 13-14 at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. John Williams’ Academy Award®-winning score will be performed in its entirety as the groundbreaking blockbuster plays in the background. The Force is strong with this one. Tickets: $20-$89. 402.345.0606
CHNNLL
May 14 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Led by multi-instrumentalist, Chris Davidson, the concept of CHNNLL started in 2016 with the release of his first single, ‘Waves.’ This Chicago-based, indie rock band is focused on creating music that feels fresh but relatable. 8 p.m. Tickets: $10 advanced, $12 day of show. 402.884.5707.
Psychosticks
May 15 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. This humor metal band has a reputation for having hilarious lyrics, heavy riffs, notorious stage antics, and a high-energy performance. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15 advanced, $18 day of show. 402.884.5707.
OSO and OAYO Side by Side
May 15 at Holland Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. The new Music Director of The Omaha Symphony works with the combined forces of the OAYO Youth Symphony and The Omaha Symphony. Always an energetic and inspiring concert, this year’s side by side performance includes classical favorites by Berlioz, Elgar and Saint-Saëns, music from John Williams contemporary classic, Star Wars and a hauntingly beautiful yet underperformed work by Florence Price. 7 p.m. Tickets: $15, $25 (suggested donation). 402.345.0606
Nilufer Yanya
May 19 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Singer-songwriter Nilüfer Yanya’s realized early that playing by the rules has never been her forte. First discovered at 20 years old after uploading her sparse, acoustic demos to Soundcloud, Yanya quickly made a name for herself following the release of her first three EPs. 8 p.m. $20 advanced $25 day of show. 402.345.7569.
Lomelda
May 16 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Lomelda is Hannah Read’s musical project. In swampy, sweaty, Silsbee, TX, she first formed the band with her high school best friends. Tickets: $15. 8 p.m. 402.884.5707.
Southern Culture On The Skids
May 17 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. This group has been consistently recording and touring around the world since its inception in 1983, when Rick Miller was a grad student at UNC-Chapel Hill. Their legendary live shows are a testament to the therapeutic powers of foot-stomping, butt-shaking rock and roll. 8 p.m. Tickets: $17 advanced, $20 day of show. 402.884.5353.
Adult
May 17 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Adult is a band from Detroit featuring Nicola Kuperus and Adam Lee Miller. Their music could best be categorized as dance punk. Tickets: $17 advanced, $20 day of show. 8 p.m. 402.884.5707.
Juan Wauters
May 18 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. The Uruguayan-born, Jackson Heights, New York-dwelling musician is best known not for a specific musical style, but instead for the crystalline sincerity that underpins everything he does. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15. 402.884.5707.
The Chats with Mean Jeans/Thick
May 19 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. The Chats represent everything that’s good about Australia and nothing that’s bad: a rebel spirit, gallows humour and the endless hedonistic pursuit of A Bloody Good Time. Cold stubbies within close reach, 24-7. 8 p.m. $20 advanced $25 day of show. 402.345.7569.
Amy Grant
May 19 at Holland Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. Conventional wisdom has it that Amy Grant put Contemporary Christian Music on the map, becoming the first CCM artist to have a platinum record, the first to hit No. 1 on the Pop charts, and the first to perform at the Grammy Awards. Since then, Grant has been strumming her way through a 30-plus year adventure as a singer-songwriter, author, television host, and speaker. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $53-$78. 402.345.0606.
Nattali Rize and Indubious
May 19 at Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Nattali brings her 5 piece show stopping band from Jamaica. Joining the RIZE family on tour is powerful lyricist and songstress from Kingston Jamaica, MINORI. Indubious are a powerhouse of sound and energy where Musical Medicine meets Conscious Roots Reggae. 8 p.m. $18 advanced $22 day of show. 402.345.7569.
Lanco
May 20 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St., Suite 95. Multi-Platinum selling band Lanco continues to forge new territory after the roots-frontier explorers and live-performance junkies broke out with the two-time Platinum multi-week No. 1 hit “Greatest Love Story.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $45
Justin Moore
May 20 at Liberty First Credit Union Arena, 7300 Q St. The singer of the hit country song “We Didn’t Have Much” comes to Omaha with special guests Granger Smith ft. Earl Dibbles Jr. and Lucas Hoge. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $40.50-$70.50. 402.934.9966.
–libertyfirstcreditunionarena.com
Goatwhore
May 20 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. Goatwhore is an American extreme metal band formed in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1997. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12 advanced, $15 day of show. 402.884.5353.
Tchaikovsky 4 with Maestro Bahl
May 20-21 at Holland Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. Music Director Ankush Kumar Bahl returns for the final Masterworks concert of the season with the fiery Canadian violinist Lara St. John in tow. This event premieres British composer Martin Kennedy’s new violin concerto to the world in an unforgettable evening. The program ends on an emotional, exuberant note with Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 in F minor. Tickets: $20-$81. 402.345.0606.
Hairball
May 21 at Liberty First Credit Union Arena, 7300 Q St. This hard-rock show will feature legendary hits from Van Halen, KISS, Motley Crue, Queen, Journey, Aerosmith, and more. 8 p.m. Tickets: $25 advanced, $30 day of show. 402.934.9966.
—libertyfirstcreditunionarena.com
Omaha Girls Rock Spring Showcase
May 21 at CulXr House, 3014 N. 24th St. Omaha Girls Rock’s mission is to empower youth to find their unique voice through music education, performance and creativity. This event showcases what the girls at this organization have been learning throughout the last several months. Admission: TBD. 402.321.2252
Wither.Decay
May 21 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. This band is coming to Omaha for one night with Our Common Collapse, Neck Wrung, Cicadia, and Iced Wrist. Tickets: $10 advanced, $12 day of show. 8 p.m. 402.884.5707.
Chayce Beckham
May 20 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St., Suite 95. Chayce Beckham is one of the most buzzed about newcomers in country music today, having won over millions of hearts while competing on Season 19 of American Idol. From the first audition, superstar Katy Perry highlighted how Chayce’s gravelly vocals sound like “the heart of America.” 8 p.m. Tickets: $30.
Bilmuri
May 25 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. Bilmuri is a American one man Alternative rock|Alternative Indie pop|Indie-Pop band started by Johnny Franck in 2016. The name Bilmuri is a abbreviated parody of the comedian and actor Bill Murray. 8 p.m. Tickets: $13 advanced, $15 day of show. 402.884.5707.
Indigo Girls
May 25 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. These folk-rock favorites recently produced their 16th studio album Look Long, in which they tell their origin story. The album is a stirring and eclectic collection of songs with duo Amy Ray and Emily Saliers reunited in the studio with their strongest backing band to date. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: TBD. 402.345.0606.
An Evening with Lisa Fischer (with Dani Cleveland)
May 26 at Holland Performing Arts, 1200 Douglas St. After four decades of featured background singing with icons like Luther Vandross, The Rolling Stones, Chaka Khan, Tina Turner, and Nine Inch Nails, Lisa Fischer set out to take center stage with her own humble, heartfelt song. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $29-$44. 402.345.0606.
Built to Spill
May 26 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. Doug Martsch formed Built To Spill in 1992. The songs are haunting rather than catchy. Each musical thought is surprising and complete. Martsch’s lyrics hint at politics, but could also be personal. 8 p.m. Tickets: $25. 402.884.5353.
Aaron Lewis and the Stateliners
May 26 at The Admiral, 2234 S. 13th St. Aaron Lewis grew up in Springfield, Vermont, listening to his grandparents’ country 8-tracks. Those roots inspired the multi-platinum front man and founder of Staind to return to his origins and since has quietly made an impact on country music without flexing to let everyone know what a big deal he is .Tickets: $45 general admission, $99 balcony.
Dos Carnales
May 27 at Liberty First Credit Union Arena, 7300 Q St. Los Dos Carnales is a Latin American music duo from Puerto Rico. Their first album, Amor De Mi Vida, was released in 2008. They have released six albums since then and are considered one of the most popular Latin American artists. 8 p.m. Tickets: $25 advanced, $30 day of show. 402.934.9966.
–libertyfirstcreditunionarena.com
Emo Nite
May 27 at The Waiting Room (6212 Maple St.) and Reverb Lounge (6121 Military Ave.) A variety of acts will perform at these two venues in one night. 9:45 p.m. $1 out of every ticket will be donated to Living The Dream Foundations.
The Antlers
May 28 at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. 8 p.m. This American indie rock band is based in Brooklyn, New York, fronted by Peter Silberman. Tickets: $20. 402.884.5353.
Belle & Sebastian
May 28 at The Admiral, 2234 S. 13th St. This Scottish pop band is coming to Omaha days after the release of their first studio full-length album in 7 years, A Bit of Previous. Tickets: $35 general admission, $70 balcony.
Wifisfuneral
May 29 at Barnato, 225 N. 170th St., Suite 95. Florida-based rapper Wifisfuneral is noted for his smooth, agile flow and his brutally honest lyrics about his struggles with drug abuse and depression. 8 p.m. Tickets: $15-$175 GA, $400 VIP, $50 Meet-and-Greet add-on.
Sleep Walker
May 31 at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. This metal band from Michigan is making a stop in Omaha. Last year the group released their second album, Alias. It is set to dig deep and encourage listeners to question themselves, their reality and what it means to be alive. 8 p.m. Tickets: $12 advanced, $14 day of show. 402.884.5707.
Performances
The Giver
Through May 8 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. Twelve-year-old Jonas lives in a utopian society with no war, no pain and no memories. All of life’s choices, from your occupation to your family members, are conveniently dictated by the government to keep things perfectly equal and functional. But when Jonas is chosen by The Giver to bear the memories of his society, past and present, he learns the truth behind his perfect world. Times vary. Tickets: $25-$35. 402.553.0800
Wicked
Through May 15 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Long before that girl from Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz. One is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious, and very popular. How these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good is a unique story. Times vary. Tickets: $53-$185. 402.345.0606
Young Playwrights Festival
May 5-8 at The Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. The Young Playwrights Festival showcases the work of some of the best teenage writers in the area. Most of the scripts featured in this production are created as part of The Rose’s yearlong Young Playwrights class. Written entirely by teens, the works are filled with comedy, tragedy, hopes, fears, romance, and all-out fun. Tickets: $10. 402.345.4849.
Two on the Aisle, Three in the Van
May 6-22 at Bellevue Little Theatre, 203 W. Mission Ave. The Neighborhood Actors Summerfun Repertory Theatre is a friendly little playhouse where the company spends their downtime in the parking lot around an aging hippie/now turned techie’s van. Those looking for refuge at the asphalt oasis include: a stressed-out artistic director grappling for funding, a wanna-be diva who’s realizing her ingenue expiration date has just about passed, a board member’s nephew vying to direct the musicals with a Tarantino spin, and the “I’m no chorus boy” chorus boy who thinks every show should have a kick line—including Glass Menagerie. Tickets: TBD. 402.291.1554.
–bellevuelittletheatre.weebly.com
SNAP, Magic! Re-Invented
May 15 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Poof! Presto! Snap! Playing with space, time and the otherworldly, this eclectic ensemble of South Korean illusionists will boggle viewers’ minds with impressive powers of prestidigitation. Mixing dexterous sleight of hand, vaudevillian comedy and ingenious visual effects, SNAP conjures a marvelous, magical cabaret perfect for the whole family. 7 p.m. Tickets: $20-$45. 402.345.0606.
Felipe Esparza
May 21 at The Waiting Room, 6212 Maple St. Felipe Esparza is a comedian and actor, known for his stand-up specials, “They’re Not Gonna Laugh at You”, “Translate This”, and his latest dual-release on Netflix, “Bad Decisions/Malas Decisiones.” 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. $32.50 advanced $35 day of show. 402.884.5353.
Buffalo Women
Starting May 26 at Bluebarn Theatre, 1106 S. 10th St. Hot off the saddle from last season’s Bonfire Series, the full production of this trailblazing new musical is our season finale! Juneteenth. New lives. New Freedoms. From playwright Beau Berry comes a tale of hidden figures living extraordinary lives on the frontier in 1865. Tickets: TBD. 402.345.1576.
Kinky Boots
Starting May 27 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. Following the death of his father, Charlie Price reluctantly agrees to return to his hometown to take over the family’s failing shoe factory. Inspiration strikes when he meets Lola, an outspoken and unapologetic drag queen in need of a sturdy pair of exotic boots. Times vary. Tickets: $25-$45. 402.553.0800
The Masked Singer National Tour
May 29 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Get ready to unmask the fun…The Masked Singer National Tour is coming to Omaha, bringing the popular television show to the next level on its first-ever North American tour with celebrity guests, amazing new performances and a spectacular live show! Tickets: $39.75-$89.75. Premium seats available for $250+. 402.345.0606.
Celtic Woman
May 31 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Grammy-nominated global music sensation Celtic Woman is thrilled to return in 2022 with a brand-new show Postcards from Ireland celebrating the rich musical and cultural heritage of Ireland; taking audiences on a journey of story and song from across the Emerald Isle. 7 p.m. Tickets: $43.25-$154.25. 402.345.0606.
Family & More
Farmer’s Markets
Gardening season is open in Omaha, and those desiring fresh produce will find plenty of options in the area, along with artisan cheeses, farm-raised meats, freshly baked breads, assorted treats, and craft items.
• Council Bluffs (Bayliss Park)
4:30-7:30 p.m. Thursdays starting May 5.
• Old Market (11th and Jackson streets)
8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays starting May 7.
• Baxter Arena (67th and Center streets)
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays starting May 8.
Spring Kite Festival
May 1 at 7346 S. 66th St. in La Vista. The whole family can enjoy this free event of kite-flying. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own kites, and remember to bring a bag, as candy drops are held throughout the event. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free.
Leashes at Lauritzen
May 2 and 9 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Canine friends and their humans are invited to explore the grounds and enjoy the outdoors. Heel for family photos, learn about local dog-related nonprofits, and enjoy treats and samples. 5-8 p.m. Admission: $10 adults, $5 dogs, free for garden members. 402.346.4002.
Cinco de Mayo Parade
May 6 along 24 Street from D to L streets. This dazzling parade—one of the largest Cinco de Mayo celebrations in the Midwest—features floats, marching bands, and more. Other event festivities, including a carnival and fiesta, take place May 6-8, rain or shine. 10 a.m. Admission: free.
Burlington Capital International Omaha
May 6-8 at CHI Heath Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St. Witness international horse jumping competitions. The 2022 event includes vaulting, an exciting event that combines acrobatics and horseback riding. Times and admission prices vary. 402.341.1500.
–omahaequestrian.org/international-omaha
Maifest 2022
May 7 at German-American Society, 3717 S. 120th St. Celebrate May Day the German way with this festival, which includes dance performances, live bands, and German food. This year, the society is bringing back the tradition of Maikoenig and Koenigen (May King and Queen). Admission: Free. 402.333.6615.
Derby Day
May 7 at Tangier Shrine, 2823 S. 84th St. Celebrate the “Run for the Roses”and enjoy an array of signature cocktails, a full bourbon bar, and southern fare appetizers and dinner. Participate in the “Best Dressed” contest for men, women, and couples. 3-7 p.m.Admission: $25. 402.392.0404
Renaissance Festival of Nebraska
May 7-8 & 14-15 at Bellevue Berry & Pumpkin Ranch, 11001 S. 48th St. Step back in time to the days of knights in shining armor with full contact swordplay, equestrian jousting, six unique performance locations, 100+ costumed characters, and free make-and-take crafts. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: $13 adults, $8 children. 402.331.5500.
Toast Wine Festival
May 13-14 at Stinson Park, 2285 S. 67th St. One of the largest gatherings of Nebraska wineries in the state, this event brings together more than 15 wineries. The event includes artisan and food vendors, educational sessions, music and wine bingo. Admission: varies. 402.496.1616
Children’s Business Fair
May 15 at Omaha Palazzo, 5110 N. 132nd St. Up to 70 youth start-up businesses will develop a brand, create a product or service, build a marketing strategy, and then open for customers at this one-day marketplace. 2 p.m. Admission: TBD. 402.819.8792.
Florence Days
May 14-15 in downtown Florence, 30th Street between State Street and I-680. Historic Florence retains its own small-town feeling with this annual event. Get in the spirit with the Florence Days Parade on Saturday from 1-3 p.m. from Miller Park to McKinley Street. Other activities will happen throughout the weekend, and attractions, such as the depot and firehouse, will be open. Admission: free.
Celebrate CB
May 9-15 in Council Bluffs, various locations. Hop across the river to celebrate Council Bluffs. Their community pride week begins with a proclamation by the mayor at Bloomer Elementary, a scavenger hunt, and more. The week ends with the Celebrate CB Parade on Saturday and the Children’s Activity Faire on Saturday and Sunday. Times vary. Admission: free. 712-396-2494.
Salute to Summer Festival
May 28 in downtown La Vista. Old-fashioned fun will be available at this annual event, which takes place on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. There will be a carnival in Central Park, a parade down Park View Boulevard, a car show, and more. Times vary. Admission: free. 402.331.4343.
Event times and details are correct as of presstime,
but are subject to change. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many events are canceling and/or changing dates/time/places as needed.
Omaha Magazine encourages readers to visit venues’ websites and/or calling ahead before attending an event or visiting a museum.
This article originally appeared in the May 2022 issue of Omaha Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.
