Who said February was no fun? Hollywood East, David Bowie’s alter ego and hundreds of pounds of cabbage await you this month.
1. The Man Who Fell to Earth at Rangos Giant Cinema, February 1–2, 7 p.m.
Three years after his death, fans worldwide are continuing the tributes to The Thin White Duke. From Ziggy Stardust to the Goblin King, David Bowie had a career-spanning fascination with cosmic concepts. Don’t miss seeing him in his first starring film role portraying the humanoid alien Thomas Jerome Newton in Nicolas Roeg’s 1976 British sci-fi flick. The film’s new crystal clear, 4K restoration will sparkle on the Rangos’ 70-by-38-foot Certified Giant Screen. You’ve got two nights to catch this cult classic at Pittsburgh’s most technically advanced theater, which boasts a mind-blowing 45-speaker surround sound system. Buy tickets.
2. Pittsburgh World Music Festival at First Unitarian Church: February 2, 5 p.m.
Experience an evening of globetrotting without leaving the East End. Crafts, cuisine and culture from all over will be highlighted at Pittsburgh’s World Music Festival. Showcasing musical genres and styles from a variety of cultures and countries, the concert lineup includes Pittsburgh’s premiere Flamenco collective, Alba Flamenca, along with Zambian musician Mathew Tembo and the Pitt Afro Pop Ensemble. Also performing will be Nigerian Afrobeat singer Jemiriye Adeniji and veteran reggae maestros Truths and Rites. The craft bazaar will feature products from Mexico Lindo, Paititi Trading, Seedlings Wire Art and many others. Suggested donation: $15.
3. Imbibe Northside at the Mattress Factory: February 2, 6 p.m.
Have one of the world’s leading contemporary art museums all to yourself (well, kinda) while sipping brews, vino and spirits at this hyper-local Northside fest co-hosted by friendly neighbors the Mattress Factory and War Streets Brewery. Everyone from Spring Hill Brewing to Southern Tier and Refucilo Winery will fill your keepsake glass while you rock out to live music by the Alex Talbot Duo and buy dinner from food trucks. The museum will remain open late so you can check out the new Artists in Residence exhibition, along with permanent works by James Turrell, Yayoi Kusama and Greer Lankton. Buy tickets.
4. Attack Theatre’s One Night Stand at Ace Hotel Pittsburgh, February 9, 6 p.m.
Rock stars and hotels are a legendary pairing. Live out your Keith Richards and Janis Joplin fantasies when Attack’s signature “performance fundraiser” tips its hat to the extravagant — and notorious — hotel parties of rock ‘n’ roll lore. Expect a whimsical night of dance, fame and philanthropy, plus a dose of good-natured debauchery. Swing into the ballroom and gym for a sumptuous Whitfield spread and music by DJs Brian Siewiorek and Gordy G. Then jump on stage to sing your favorite number with the karaoke band and bond with Attack’s dancers during pop-up games and performances. VIPers will sample cocktails as they hop between hotel rooms designed by rock star hosts. Buy tickets.
5. My Snarky Valentine at Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh: February 14, 6:30 p.m.
Finally a Valentine’s Day that sappy lovebirds and jaded cynics can get behind. With the toddlers tucked in, it’s time for the big kids to take over the MAKESHOP. The museum will provide the fodder — and food and drink. All you have to do is decide if your valentine will be sincere, sassy or scandalous. Get messy as you make Valen-slime, screen-print love notes and turn your hidden desires into woodburned designs. Practice self-care by concocting bath bombs, snuggle with furry friends from Humane Animal Rescue and have your dreams interpreted by Candice. Toast Cupid with a glass of bubbly wine and dunk some treats in a decadent chocolate fountain. Buy tickets.
