“It’s a Hard-Knock Life” for Annie—the red-haired orphan who has stolen hearts in comic strips, on stage, and on screen—until she’s adopted by the billionaire Daddy Warbucks in the midst of the Great Depression. The Lakeshore Players perform this Tony Award-winning musical, which includes well-known numbers such as “Tomorrow” and “Easy Street.” Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m.. 651.429.5674.
Over the past six years, it’s become “tradition” for Sunrise Park and Central Middle Schools to join up in the spring to form the Middle School Players. This time around, the kids will be performing Fiddler on the Roof, Jr. Let the youngsters transport you to early 20th-century Russia, a world filled with matchmakers love old and new, and, of course, tradition. 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 2 p.m. Saturday. 651.653.2888.
Ever wanted to see a true piano prodigy? Last April, more than 40 young pianists took part in master pianist Vincenzo Balzani’s master class; five of them, between the ages of 6 and 17, have distinguished themselves with particularly skilled playing. They’ll be sharing their immense talent with the public at this recital. 651.269.9888.
Artsy Smartsy is a program designed to combine crafting with art history in a hands-on art lesson, and this session’s project is springtime perfection. Tina Ottmar will teach you to paint Andy Warhol-style acrylic flowers on canvas to create a unique piece for your home, and you’ll learn a little about Warhol and the midcentury Pop Art movement along the way. Space is limited, so early registration is recommended. 651.724.6071.
Don’t miss this special visit from author David Housewright at the Wildwood Branch Library. As part of the library’s Book Club Special Edition series, the author of the critically acclaimed Curse of the Jade Lily will give a talk and answer questions about his crime novel. 651.426.2042.
Always wanted to learn to play an instrument but never had the time for it? This Just ONCE Guitar class is tailor-made for you. The instructor will give you a crash course in fundamental guitar skills, teaching basic chords that will impress your friends and get you strumming along with your most beloved tunes. As a bonus, the course fee includes a workbook and practice DVD so your newfound skills won’t get rusty as soon as you get home. Ages 13 and up. 651.653.2920.
Head to the White Bear Lake Area High School-South Campus to see some of the area’s most talented kids battle it out to be crowned the best band in the area. Last year’s event featured six student bands with musical styles that ran the gamut from acoustic guitar to heavy metal, as well as a special appearance by a teacher band. Support your favorite young music-makers and get your groove on (just leave your lighter at home). 651-773-6200.
Support the White Bear Lake High School Band at its big spring concert at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church as talented young musicians perform the music of several famed composers. 651.426.3261.
Are April showers keeping the kids stuck inside? Lila and Claudine’s Yarn & Gifts offers a Thursday knitting group for 8- to 12-year-olds who love to knit or want to learn. Qualified instructors are happy to teach the basics or new techniques, and the after-school group is a great way to meet new friends and make progress on a special handmade project. 651.429.9551.
Don’t miss this season’s Art Extravaganza at Central Middle School, where students will showcase their art in the corridors. The next van Gogh may be hanging on the walls at Central, so stop by and support the students. Times vary. 651.653.2888.
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