More Spring Events 

Festivals/Events

15th Annual Charlotte Goes Green Festival Celebrates St. Patrick's day with live Irish music, Irish dancers, Irish/Celtic vendors, a large Celtic kid's zone, food and beverages. Sat., March 19, 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Free admission. Held uptown on S. Tryon Street (between 3rd Street & 1st Street). www.charlottestpatsday.com.

15th Annual Charlotte St. Patrick's Day Parade Featuring pipe and drum bands, Irish dancers, floats, animals, marching units and more. The parade will kick off at 11 a.m. at Tryon and 9th Street. It will march south to Tryon Street and 3rd Street. Sat., March 19, 11 a.m. Uptown Charlotte. www.charlottestpatsday.com.

16TH ANNUAL TASTE OF THE NATION Featuring more than 30 restaurants, culinary schools, organizations, wineries and more. There is also live and silent auctions, as well as live entertainment. For more information, visit http://strength.org/charlotte/. Benefits Share Our Strength. Wed., April 13. $85-$100. The Atrium, 401 S. Tryon St., Charlotte.

All Arts Market Offers affordable, original art from local artists. This includes paintings, prints, photography, pottery, stained glass, jewelry, hand-crafted notebooks, knits and more. For more information, visit www.nodarioty.org, March 11, 6-10 p.m.; March 12, 2-7 p.m. Free admission. Neighborhood Theatre, 511 E. 36th St., Charlotte. 704-358-9298. www.neighborhoodtheatre.com.

Antique Radio Charlotte A three-day conference for radio collectors and historians. Features programs/forums, equipment contests, auctions and two giant flea markets. For more information, visit www.antiqueradiocharlotte.homestead.com. March 24-26. $15 in advance, $20 at the door on Thursday and Friday; Saturday admission is free. Sheraton Airport Plaza Hotel, 3315 S. I-85 Service Road, Charlotte.

Beertopia The third annual St. Patrick's Day event features beer, food, live music and more. Proceeds raised will benefit Pints for Prostates. For more information, visit www.partylikealeprechaun.info. Sat., March 12, 2-6 p.m. Grapevine Wine Shop & Bar, 1012 Market St., Suite 105, Fort Mill. 803-802-9989.

Charlotte 300 NASCAR nationwide series race. Sat., May 28. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Parkway. South, Concord. www.charlottemotorspeedway.com.

Charlotte Dragonboat Festival Festival celebrates Asian cultures with music and dance, a beauty pageant, cultural displays, a boat race, food and more. For more information, visit www.charlottedragonboat.com. Sat., May 7, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Ramsey Creek Park, 18441 Nantz Road, Cornelius.

Charlotte Gluten Free/ Allergen Free Expo 2011 Event features up to 100 vendors. Taste and buy samples of the newest gluten free/allergen foods. Includes eductaional seminars and classes. For more information, visit http://charlottegfexpo.blogspot.com. Sat., April 30, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. $5 advance tickets; $10 at the door; Free for children 12 years old and under. Blake Hotel, 555 McDowell St., Charlotte.

CHARLOTTE ROLLER GIRLS DOUBLE HEADER Roller derby bouts. Charlotte Roller Girls All-Stars vs. Low Country High Rollers All-Stars and Charlotte Roller Girls B Dazzlers vs. Low Country High Rollers Bruisin Betties. For more information, visit www.charlotterollergirls.com. Sat., May 7, 6 p.m. $10-$14. Grady Cole Center, 310 N. Kings Drive, Charlotte. 704-353-0200.

CHARLOTTE ROLLER GIRLS DOUBLE HEADER Roller derby bout. Charlotte Roller Girls All-Stars and the B Dazzlers will take on teams from the Greenville Derby Dames. For more information, visit www.charlotterollergirls.com. Sat., June 11, 6 p.m. $10-$14. Grady Cole Center, 310 N. Kings Drive, Charlotte. 704-353-0200.

Charlotte Speed Demons vs. Greenville Derby Dames Roller derby bout. For more information, visit www.charlottespeeddemons.com. Sat., March 26, 6 p.m. $8-$14. First Ward Recreation Center, 610 E. 7th St., Charlotte.

Charlotte Speed Demons vs. Richmond's Mother State Roller Derby Roller derby bout. For more information, visit www.charlottespeeddemons.com. Sat., April 16, 6 p.m. $8-$14. First Ward Recreation Center, 610 E. 7th St., Charlotte.

Charlotte's Third Annual CBG Expo Charlotte Business Guild spotlights the business and professional contributions of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) community. For more information, visit www.charlottebusinessguild.org. Fri., March 11, 6-9 p.m. The Westin Hotel, 601 S. College St., Charlotte.

Circle K Outlaws Showdown Steve Kinser, Donny Schatz, Jason Meyers and Joey Saldana are among the warriors in this open-wheeled spectacular. Fri., May 27. The Dirt Track at Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Parkway, South, Concord. www.charlottemotorspeedway.com.

Coca-Cola 600 NASCAR's only 600-mile event on Memorial Day weekend. Sun., May 29. $39.75 and up. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. South, Concord. www.charlottemotorspeedway.com.

Creative Showcase Displays a series of innovative designs by students at The Art Institute of Charlotte. Tue., March 22, 7 p.m. $10. Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Dogtopia Anniversary Party Featuring vendors, a microchip clinic and a painting "pawty". Sat., March 19, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Dogtopia, 616 Springbrook Drive, Charlotte. 704- 333-3063.

Food Lion AutoFair Featuring an array of cars (from classics to customs) and vendors, as well as a collector car auctions and other impressive automotive attractions. April 7; April 8; April 9; April 10. Single day adult tickets are $10; Four-day adult tickets are $25; Free for children under 12 years. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. South, Concord. www.charlottemotorspeedway.com.

Green River Revival In honor of St. Patrick's day the whitewater river will turn shamrock green. Additional festivities will include live music from the Mike Strauss band, a one-mile walk/jog and a powerball race on the green whitewater. For more information, visit http://usnwc.org/2011/02/green-river-revival-march-12/. Sat., March 12, 11 a.m. US National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway. 704-391-3900. www.usnwc.org.

Harlem Globetrotters Featuring athletes and entertainers. For more information, visit www.harlemglobetrotters.com. March 25, 7 p.m.; March 26, 1 p.m. Time Warner Cable Arena, 333 E. Trade St. www.timewarnercablearena.com.

Heroes: An American Celebration Carolina Voices' Charlotte Civic Orchestra and Myers Park Baptist Church Choir present a patriotic salute to the armed forces and the freedoms of American life. Sat., May 28, 7:30 p.m. Myers Park Baptist Church, 1900 Queens Road, Charlotte. 704-334-7232.

Joyce Tenneson: The Intimate Portrait Author/photographer Joyce Tenneson will speak about her her latest book, Joyce Tenneson: A Life in Photography. Held in Storrs Hall 110. Fri., April 1, 7 p.m. Free. UNC-Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte. 704-687-8622. home.uncc.edu/.

Kings Drive Art Walk The festival will feature fine arts by local emerging artists for sale in numerous mediums, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, pottery, metal, stone, wood and glass and more. April 16; April 17. Free. Sugar Creek Greenway, along Kings Drive near the Metropolitan in Midtown, Charlotte.

March Slalom Race To register for the canoe/kayaking event, call 704-391-3900, ext. 192. March 19, 10 a.m.; March 20, 10 a.m. US National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway. 704-391-3900. www.usnwc.org.

Meet the Brewmaster Four Craggie beer styles on tap (antebellum ale, toubab brewe, dubbelicious and burning barrel). Wed., March 16, 6-10 p.m. Lil Robert's Place Concord, 25 Union St., South, Concord. 704-795-2337. www.lilrobertsplace.com.

MET Live: Pisces at 6 Featuring drink specials ($3 Bud Lights, $5 martini special, $6 wine special), a $5 bar bites menu and a DJ at 7 p.m. Proceeds benefit the American Red Cross. Thu., March 10, 6-10 p.m. Free admission. 1100 Metropolitan Ave., Charlotte.

Middle East Festival Festival celebrated Middle Eastern culture with displays, music, dancing, food and more. For more information, visit www.middleeastcouncilnc.org. Sun., April 10, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Queens University, 1900 Selwyn Ave., Charlotte. 704-337-2200.

NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race Saturday night shootout for bragging rights and a $1 million paycheck awarded to the winner. Sat., May 21. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. South, Concord. www.charlottemotorspeedway.com.

NC Breweries Tap Takeover Two Craggie beer styles on tap. Sun., March 13, 4-9 p.m. Brixx Wood-Fired Pizza, 225 E. 6th St., Charlotte. 704-347-2749. www.brixxpizza.com.

NC Breweries Tap Takeover One Craggie beer style on tap. Wed., March 16, 7-10 p.m. Common Market South End, 1515 S. Tryon St., Charlotte.

NC Education Lottery 200 and NASCAR All-Star Qualifying NASCAR Camping World Trucks compete in a bumper-to-tailgate tussle. There will also be qualifying for the NASCAR Sprint Cup All-Star Race. Fri., May 20. $20 and up. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. South, Concord. www.charlottemotorspeedway.com.

NHRA 4-Wide Nationals "Top Fuel," "Funny Car" and "Pro Stock" classes compete in this accelerating event. April 14; April 15; April 16; April 17. zMax Dragway at Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. South, Concord. www.charlottemotorspeedway.com.

Orchid Spectacular The exhibit continues with educational classes, workshops and a dazzling display dedicated to orchids and tropical plants. March 3-14. $12 for adults; $11 for seniors; $6 for children 4-12 years old; Free for members. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont. 704-825-4490. www.dsbg.org.

Passport For Fashion Fashion show hosted by Charlotte Seen. The designer showcase includes an assembly by Charlotte designers Luis Machicao, Beth Pilger and more. The event aims to help raise funds and awareness about saving the environment. A portion of the proceeds will also benefit A Child's Place. For more information, visit www.passportforfashion.com. Sat., April 16, 6:30 p.m. $20-$25. Reelworks, 817 Hamliton St., Charlotte. 704-375-4321.

The Poetry of Shel Silverstein with Allan Wolf A live performance of Shel Silverstein's poetry by award- winning poet/author/educator Allan Wolf. Advance reservations requested for organized groups. Mon., March 28, 7 p.m. Free. Gaston County Public Library, 1555 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia. 704-868-2167.

Race to the Top Participants will race to the top of the Duke Energy Center's 49th floor. Climbers will be divided into flights that will start the climb every 15 seconds, based on experience level. For more information, visit www.charlottesports.org/racetothetop/. Sat., March 26, 9 a.m. Duke Energy Center, 526 S. Church St., Charlotte.

River Bound Race Series Signature trail running race series. March 12: 5k and 8k; May 21: 5k and 10k; July 16: 5k and 15k; Sept. 24: 5k and half marathon. For more information on the races, visit www.riverboundrace.com. March 12, 8 a.m.; May 21, 8 a.m.; July 16, 8 a.m.; Sept. 24, 8 a.m. US National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway. 704-391-3900. www.usnwc.org.

SENSORIA CPCC's grand celebration of the arts. Featuring week-long events focused on literature, music, visual arts, history, culture and culinary delight. For detailed information, visit http://sensoria.cpcc.edu/. April 8-16. Central Piedmont Community College, 1201 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte.

SHAM ROCK 'N' ROLL BASH St. Patrick's day party with a leprechaun and 'St. Panties' day costume contest and live music from Simplified, Sister Hazel and Paper Tongues. For more information and tickets, call 800-745-3000 or visit www.ncmusicfactory.com. Thu., March 17, 6 p.m. $15 in advance. North Carolina Music Factory, 820 Hamilton St., Charlotte.

SHIFT Charlotte Metaphysical event with experts in the field leading classes, vendors, readers, psychics, and more. For more information, visit www.shiftcharlotte.com. Sat., March 12, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. $50. US National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway. 704-391-3900. www.usnwc.org.

Spring Festival Whitewater Slalom Team Trials and music. Friday's headliner is JJ Grey & Mofro and Saturday's headliner is Lucero. April 15; April 16. Two-day festival tickets are $20-$25. US National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway. 704-391-3900. www.usnwc.org.

Spring into Health The health fair will feature events including blood sugar screening, blood sugar screening, vision screenings, body mass analysis, stroke and heart attack prevention information, chiropractics, body mechanics screenings, healthy nutrition information and more. Thu., March 10, 5-8 p.m. Free. Stallings Elementary, 3501 Stallings Road, Stallings.

St. Patrick's Day Irish Celebration Batt and Maura Burns, a talented husband and wife duo from Ireland will perform traditional Irish storytelling, poetry, and folk songs. Local Irish step dancers will also perform and a traditional Irish meal will be served. To purchase tickets, call 704-942-6345 or 704-402-7075. Sat., March 12, 6:30-10 p.m. St. Mark's Parish Center, 14740 Stumptown Road, Huntersville.

Summer Drag & Brag Series A six-week series of street drags on the four-lane quarter-mile track. Wednesdays. Continues through July 20. zMax Dragway at Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. South, Concord. www.charlottemotorspeedway.com.

Summer Shootout Series NASCAR's future stars show their skills in a full program of Legend Car and Bandolero racing along with special attractions such as fireworks, school bus racing and mascot mania. Tuesdays. Continues through Aug. 16. $7 for adults; $3 for children 6-12 years old. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. South, Concord. www.charlottemotorspeedway.com.

TASTE OF CHARLOTTE Featuring food and beverages from a variety of restaurants, as well as entertainment. The festival is held along Tryon Street (from Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to 6th Street). June 11, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; June 12, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; June 13, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission is free, but guests must purchase coins for food and beverages. For more information, visit www.tasteofcharlotte.com.

Third Annual EpiCentre Green Party Featuring Sick Puppies with special guest Kimberly Caldwell from American Idol. Sat., March 12, 5 p.m. EpiCentre, 210 East Trade Street, Charlotte.

US National Whitewater Slalom Team Trials USA canoe/kayak event. To register, call 704-391-3900, ext. 192. April 15; April 16; April 17. US National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway.704-391-3900. www.usnwc.org.

Walk MS The 2-4 mile community walk raises money and awareness for people suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Proceeds benefit The National Multiple Sclerosis Society. For more information, call 704-525-5906 or visit http://nationalmssociety.org. Sat., April 16. Registration at 9 a.m.; Walk begins at 10:30 a.m. Symphony Park at SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Road.

Windstream Pole Night NASCAR Sprint Cup Series qualifying for the Coca-Cola 600. Thu., May 26. $12 and up. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. South, Concord. www.charlottemotorspeedway.com.

The Wooodworking & D.I.Y. Show The show invites hobbyists and woodworking enthusiasts to get tips and insight from industry professionals and national experts during hands-on demonstrations, and try out the latest products from leading manufacturers. March 25, 12-6 p.m.; March 26, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; March 27, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $10 adults, free for children under 15. The Park Expo & Conference Center (formerly The Charlotte Merchandise Mart), 2500 Independence Blvd., Charlotte.

Classical Music

Charlotte Symphony: Brahms New music director Christopher Warren-Green conducts a program of works by composer Johannes Brahms. April 1, 8 p.m.; April 2, 8 p.m. $21.50-$80.50. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Charlotte Symphony: Grieg Pianist Stephen Hough returns to the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra to perform the popular piano concerto by Edvard Grieg in this Scandinavian celebration. May 6, 8 p.m.; May 7, 8 p.m. $21.50-$80.50. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Charlotte Symphony KnightSounds: Light My Fire Charlotte Symphony to perform passionate works, from George Frideric Handel's "Royal Fireworks" to Igor Stravinsky's "Firebird." Pre-concert cocktails and appetizers at 6:30 p.m. Fri., March 25, 7:30-8:30 p.m. $30 (includes appetizers, a drink ticket and admission to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art). Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Charlotte Symphony Lollipops: Carnival of the Animals Dancers from the North Carolina Dance Theatre's School of Dance strut, prance, pounce and glide in Saint-Saens's musical menagerie, Carnival of the Animals. Pre-concert festival, featuring The Symphony Guild of Charlotte "Musical Petting Zoo," begins at 10 a.m. Sat., April 30, 11 a.m. $12.50-$25.50. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Charlotte Symphony Lollipops: Green Eggs & Ham Musical adaptation of Dr. Seuss's classic, Green Eggs and Ham. Pre-concert festival, featuring The Symphony Guild of Charlotte "Musical Petting Zoo," begins at 10 a.m. Sat., March 26, 11 a.m. $12.50-$25.50. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Charlotte Symphony Pops: Bugs Bunny at the Symphony A sequel to the popular Bugs Bunny on Broadway, this program of classical music and animation features a new fusion of on-screen Looney Tunes and live symphony orchestra accompaniment, including an enlarged "cast" of Warner Bros.' animated characters and cartoons, as well as favorites like Tom and Jerry, The Flintstones and Scooby-Doo. May 19, 8 p.m.; May 20, 8 p.m. $26.50-$69.50. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Charlotte Symphony Pops: Chris Botti Since the release of his 2004 album When I Fall In Love, Botti has become one of America's best-selling jazz instrumentalists. Sat., May 21, 8 p.m. $42.50-$81.50. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Charlotte Symphony Pops: Rodgers & Hammerstein At the Movies This production combines re-mastered footage from the musicals by Rodgers & Hammerstein with original vocals and a live soundtrack performed by the Charlotte Symphony. Film favorites include Oklahoma, The King and I, South Pacific, Carousel and The Sound of Music. April 8, 8 p.m.; April 9, 8 p.m. $32.50-$76.50. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Charlotte Symphony Pops: That's Amore Concert of Italian favorites with a special tribute to Luciano Pavarotti, featuring Charlotte Symphony's Frank Portone as vocalist. Also, featuring Deana Martin - daughter of Dean Martin. April 29, 8 p.m.; April 30, 8 p.m. $26.50-$71.50. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Charlotte Symphony: Wagner and Bruckner This Charlotte Symphony program includes two works (Rienzi Overture and Siegfried Idyll) by Richard Wagner and are followed by what composer Anton Bruckner called his "Wagner Symphony," Symphony No. 3. March 11, 8 p.m.; March 12, 8 p.m. $21.50-$80.50. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Comedy

Clover School District Auditorium The Magic of John Tudor. Family Night XII, featuring original humorous pieces that revolve around fairy tales, romance, struggles with cosmic forces and more. Tue., March 15, 7 p.m. $5-$8. 1625 Highway 55 East, Clover. 803-222-8018. www.clover.k12.sc.us/csda.

McGlohon Theatre Laugh for the Cure. The event begins with hors d'oeuvres and a silent auction in The Atrium at 6 p.m. A live auction and the comedy show, featuring comedians James Sibley and Greg Hahn will follow in McGlohon Theatre at 7:15 p.m. Presented by The Susan G. Komen for the Cure to help raise awareness and funding for breast health programs in the community. Thu., March 10. $42. Doug Benson. Benson has appeared on Comedy Central Presents, Best Week Ever and was a contestant on Last Comic Standing. He also starred in Super High Me. Fri., March 25, 8 p.m. $25. 345 N. College St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

NODA at 28th The Chuckleheads' Comedy Improv Variety Extravaganza. Secondary Chuckleheads' cast show at 8 p.m.; Main Chuckleheads' cast show at 9 p.m. For more information, call 704-301-1564 or visit www.thechuckleheads.com. Sat., March 26. $5 in advance; $10 on the day of the show. 2424 N. Davidson St., Charlotte.

Ovens Auditorium Brian Regan. Sun., March 20. 2700 E. Independence Blvd, Charlotte. 704-372-3600. www.ovensauditorium.com.

The Comedy Zone Fort Mill Derek Blackmon & Friends. Also featuring Chesney Goodson, Katie Hughes, Chris Weathers, Michael Robinette and Chris Layton. Thu., March 10, 8 p.m. $5. 900 Crossroads Plaza, Fort Mill.

Dance

Coppelia A family ballet offering comedy, mayhem and a happily-ever-after romance. March 25, 10 a.m. & 7 p.m.; March 26, 1 p.m. & 5:30 p.m. $12-$25. CPCC's Halton Theater, 1206 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte. 704-330-6534. tix.cpcc.edu/.

Director's Choice North Carolina Dance Theatre's artistic director Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux chose Tchaikovsky's "Pas de Deux" and George Balanchine chose "Satto" by Salvatore Aiello and "Le souffle de l'esprit" by Jiri Bubenicek. In addition, choreographer Dwight Rhoden will present a world premiere inspired by the life and work of artist Romare Bearden. For more information, visit www.ncdance.org. March 10, 7:30 p.m.; March 11, 7:30 p.m.; March 12, 7:30 p.m. $25-$79. Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Garth Fagan Dance In its 39th year, this dance troupe has won numerous awards and produced renowned dancers, such as Natalie Rogers and Norwood Pennewell. March 31, 7:30 p.m.; April 1, 8 p.m.; April 2, 8 p.m.; April 3, 3 p.m. $24 and up. Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Little Mermaid The classic tale by Hans Christian Anderson comes to life in this production by choreographer Mark Diamond of North Carolina Dance Theatre. After a curious mermaid visits land, she falls in love with a human and dreams of remaining out of the water. For more information, visit www.ncdance.org. March 12, 2 p.m.; March 13, 2 p.m. $25-$67. Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Look Back...Look In Solo and duet works that create portraits of women, relationships and life lessons learned. Presented by Martha Connerton/Kinetic Works. March 11, 8 p.m.; March 12, 8 p.m.; March 13, 2 p.m. $18, $20 at the door. Actor's Theatre of Charlotte, 650 E. Stonewall St., Charlotte. 704-342-2251. www.actorstheatrecharlotte.org.

Peter and the Wolf Open Door Youth Ensemble presents a theatrical dance performance built around the classic tale of "Peter and the Wolf". Sat., March 12, 11 a.m. & 4 p.m. $10 in advance; $12 at the door. Actor's Theatre of Charlotte, 650 E. Stonewall St., Charlotte. 704-342-2251. www.actorstheatrecharlotte.org.

Spotlight An evening of women choreographers. Legendary choreographer Martha Graham presents Requiem - a piece by former Graham Company dancer Jacqulyn Buglisi. In addition, choreographer Emery Lecrone - a former NC Dance Theatre 2 Company dancer - will also present a new work. For more information, visit www.ncdance.org. April 28, 7:30 p.m.; April 29, 7:30 p.m.; April 30, 7:30 p.m. $25-$79. Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Student Choreography Showcase Featuring dance works choreographed by advanced dance majors. The performance will feature a wide variety of styles including modern, jazz, hip-hop and more. For more information or tickets, call 803-323-4014 or email boxoffice@winthrop.edu. April 21, 8 p.m.; April 22, 8 p.m.; April 23, 2 p.m. $15 for the public; $8 with Winthrop I.D. Winthrop University's Johnson Theatre, 115 Johnson Hall, Rock Hill. 803-323-2287. www.winthrop.edu/cvpa/theatredance/.

Totem Presented by Cirque du Soleil. The show features skilled acrobats (including ring tossers, trapeze artists, unicyclists, jugglers, skaters and more). It centers around the evolution of mankind from a primordial state. For more information, visit www.cirquedusoleil.com/totem. Continues through March 20. $50-$250. Charlotte Motor Speedway, 5555 Concord Pkwy. South, Concord. www.charlottemotorspeedway.com.

Theater

And They Came For Me: Remembering the World of Anne Frank The production paints a vivid picture of life before and during World War II by using real stories from Anne Frank, as well as Holocaust survivors Ed Silverberg and Eva Schloss. Presented by Children's Theatre of Charlotte. For more information, call 704-973-2828 or visit www.ctcharlotte.org. March 11, 7:30 p.m.; March 12, 1 p.m. & 3 p.m.; March 13, 2 p.m. & 4 p.m. $14-$18. ImaginOn's Wachovia Playhouse, 300 E. 7th St., Charlotte.

A Behanding in Spokane This black comedy play by Martin McDonagh revolves around a man searching for his missing hand, two con artists making a few hundred bucks and an overly curious hotel clerk. March 10, 8 p.m.; March 11, 8 p.m.; March 12, 8 p.m.; March 17, 8 p.m.; March 18, 8 p.m.; March 19, 8 p.m.; March 24, 8 p.m.; March 25, 8 p.m.; March 26, 8 p.m.; March 31, 8 p.m.; April 1, 8 p.m.; April 2, 8 p.m. Carolina Actors Studio Theatre (CAST), 1118 Clement Ave., Charlotte. 704-455-8542. www.nccast.com.

Agnes of God In this play by John Pielmeier, a dead newborn is found at a convent and the mother insists the baby was a virgin birth. Dr. Martha Livingstone is assigned to the investigate case and the sparks begin to fly as the religious folks insist it was a miracle birth gone wrong. April 21-May 21. Carolina Actors Studio Theatre (CAST), 1118 Clement Ave., Charlotte. 704-455-8542. www.nccast.com.

Alice in Wonderland Disney classic about the adventures of Alice features zippy songs, such as "I'm Late," "The Un-birthday Song" and "Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah". June 29, 10 a.m.; June 30, 10 a.m.; July 1, 10 a.m.; July 2, 10 a.m.; July 5, 10 a.m.; July 6, 10 a.m.; July 7, 10 a.m.; July 8, 10 a.m.; July 9, 10 a.m. CPCC's Pease Auditorium, 1200 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte. 704-330-6534. arts.cpcc.edu/performing-arts/theatre.

Almost, Maine Love is in the air in a mythical town called Almost. Residents find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and sometimes humorous ways. Held in Pease Auditorium. April 8, 8 p.m.; April 9, 8 p.m.; April 10, 2:30 p.m.; April 15, 8 p.m.; April 16, 8 p.m.; April 17, 2:30 p.m. $16. CPCC's Pease Auditorium, 1200 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte. 704-330-6534. tix.cpcc.edu/.

Avenue Q Award-winning puppet musical tells the story of Princeton, a college grad who moves to New York to pursue his dreams. After moving into a low income neighborhood, he becomes friends with his neighbors, all of whom have struggles (from finding jobs and dates to their purpose in life). April 5, 7:30 p.m.; April 6, 7:30 p.m.; April 7, 7:30 p.m.; April 8, 8 p.m.; April 9, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; April 10, 1:30 p.m. & 7 p.m. $20 and up. Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Blue Man Group Theatrical show combines comedy, music and technology for a wildly outrageous show. April 19, 7:30 p.m.; April 20, 7:30 p.m.; April 21, 7:30 p.m.; April 22, 8 p.m.; April 23, 12 p.m.,4 p.m. & 8 p.m.; April 24, 3 p.m. $20 and up. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Cats Andrew Lloyd Webber's famed musical about cats is one of the longest running shows in Broadway's history. May 24, 7:30 p.m.; May 25, 7:30 p.m.; May 26, 7:30 p.m.; May 27, 8 p.m.; May 28, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; May 29, 1:30 p.m. & 7 p.m. $20 and up. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Chess The Musical This cult rock musical explores the classic themes of love, loss and betrayal. Featuring the hit single "One Night in Bangkok", and unforgettable songs like "Anthem," "I Know Him So Well," "Nobody's Side," and "Pity the Child." Presented by Queen City Theatre Company. For more information, visit www.queencitytheatre.com. May 19, 8 p.m.; May 20, 8 p.m.; May 21, 8 p.m.; May 26, 8 p.m.; May 27, 8 p.m.; May 28, 8 p.m.; May 29, 3 p.m.; June 1, 8 p.m.; June 2, 8 p.m.; June 3, 8 p.m.; June 4, 8 p.m.; June 5, 3 p.m.; June 7, 8 p.m.; June 8, 8 p.m.; June 9, 8 p.m.; June 10, 8 p.m.; June 11, 8 p.m. $24-$28. Duke Energy Theatre, 345 North College St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

A Closer Walk with Patsy Cline Backed by a band of singers and musicians, Katie Deal plays Patsy Cline in this show. Tue., March 29, 8 p.m. $15. Clover School District Auditorium, 1625 Highway 55 East, Clover. 803-222-8018. www.clover.k12.sc.us/csda.

The Colored Museum This series of vignettes by George C. Wolfe examines African American culture in the post-Vietnam era and its escape from centuries of suffering. Presented by On Q Productions. For more information, visit www.youarenowonq.com. March 30, 7:30 p.m.; March 31, 7:30 p.m.; April 1, 8 p.m.; April 2, 8 p.m.; April 3, 3 p.m.; April 7, 7:30 p.m.; April 8, 8 p.m.; April 9, 8 p.m.; April 10, 3 p.m. $22. Duke Energy Theatre, 345 North College St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

The Commedia Princess and the Pea Children's Theatre of Charlotte's Tarradiddle Players put a slapstick spin on Hans Christian Andersen's classic fairy tale. For ages 5 years old and up. For more information, call 704-973-2828 or visit www.ctcharlotte.org. June 17, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.; June 18, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.; June 19, 2 p.m.; June 25, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.; June 26, 2 p.m. $14-$18. ImaginOn's Wachovia Playhouse, 300 E. 7th St., Charlotte.

The Country Wife A comedy about manners in the English language, where wit either makes someone's reputation or ruins it. The play follows a character called Mr. Horner, whose clever deception helps him to earn the trust of many elite wives living in 17th century London. By William Wycherley. Contains adult content. For more information or tickets, call 803-323-4014 or email boxoffice@winthrop.edu. April 13, 8 p.m.; April 14, 8 p.m.; April 15, 8 p.m.; April 16, 8 p.m.; April 17, 2 p.m. $15 for the public; $8 with Winthrop I.D. Winthrop University's Johnson Theatre, 115 Johnson Hall, Rock Hill. 803-323-2287. www.winthrop.edu/cvpa/theatredance/.

Dead Man's Cell Phone Playwright Sarah Ruhl's surrealist comedy follows a woman who answers a dead man's cell phone. What seems like just a phone call becomes mush more, as she is forced to be a comforter and confessor to the man's grieving friends and family. April 1, 8 p.m.; April 2, 8 p.m.; April 6, 7:30 p.m.; April 7, 7:30 p.m.; April 8, 8 p.m.; April 9, 8 p.m.; April 13, 7:30 p.m.; April 14, 7:30 p.m.; April 15, 8 p.m.; April 16, 8 p.m.; April 17, 2:30 p.m.; April 20, 7:30 p.m.; April 21, 7:30 p.m.; April 22, 8 p.m.; April 23, 8 p.m. $15 for previews on April 1 & 2; Pay what you can night on April 13; $24-$29 for all other shows. Actor's Theatre of Charlotte, 650 E. Stonewall St., Charlotte. 704-342-2251. www.actorstheatrecharlotte.org.

Deathtrap The well-constructed play combines the elements of both a thriller and a comedy. July 1, 8 p.m.; July 2, 8 p.m.; July 3, 2:30 p.m.; July 5, 7 p.m.; July 6, 7:30 p.m.; July 7, 7:30 p.m.; July 8, 8 p.m.; July 9, 8 p.m. CPCC's Pease Auditorium, 1200 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte. 704-330-6534. arts.cpcc.edu/performing-arts/theatre.

Fabulation This show written by Pulitzer Prize winning playwright, Lynn Nottage, follows a successful African-American woman named Undine. After learning her company is bankrupt, her marriage over and that she is pregnant, she decides to return home to a family that she hasn't spoken to in years. Presented by On Q Productions. For more information, visit www.youarenowonq.com. June 15, 7:30 p.m.; June 16, 7:30 p.m.; June 17, 8 p.m.; June 18, 8 p.m.; June 19, 3 p.m.; June 23, 7:30 p.m.; June 24, 8 p.m.; June 25, 8 p.m.; June 26, 3 p.m. $22. Duke Energy Theatre, 345 North College St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Hairspray Set in 1960s Baltimore, the show revolves around Tracy Turnblad - an outsider turned teen celebrity. From TV to true love the drama picks up with singing and dancing. July 15, 8 p.m.; July 16, 8 p.m.; July 17, 2:30 p.m.; July 19, 7 p.m.; July 20, 7:30 p.m.; July 21, 7:30 p.m.; July 22, 8 p.m.; July 23, 8 p.m. CPCC's Pease Auditorium, 1200 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte. 704-330-6534. arts.cpcc.edu/performing-arts/theatre.

Hello, Dolly! Follow the adventures of America's most beloved matchmakers and enjoy memorable songs including "Put On Your Sunday Clothes," "Before the Parade Passes By," and more. June 3, 8 p.m.; June 4, 8 p.m.; June 5, 2:30 p.m.; June 7, 7 p.m.; June 8, 7:30 p.m.; June 9, 7:30 p.m.; June 10, 8 p.m.; June 11, 8 p.m. CPCC's Pease Auditorium, 1200 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte. 704-330-6534. arts.cpcc.edu/performing-arts/theatre.

H.M.S. Pinafore This Gilbert & Sullivan classic operetta takes place on a ship, Her Majesty's Ship Pinafore, where a captain's daughter falls in love with a common sailor. The plot gets in even more of a tangle when the girls father has another suitor in mind for his daughter. Presented by Opera Carolina. May 12, 7:30 p.m.; May 14, 8 p.m.; May 15, 2 p.m. $20-$130. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Lord of the Flies Children's Theatre of Charlotte's high school Ensemble Company performs this production based on the novel by William Golding. For ages 12 years old and up. For more information, call 704-973-2828 or visit www.ctcharlotte.org. May 12, 7:30 p.m.; May 13, 7:30 p.m.; May 14, 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. $10. ImaginOn's Wachovia Playhouse, 300 E. 7th St., Charlotte.

Lyle the Crocodile Based on the picture books by Bernard Waber. Presented by Children's Theatre of Charlotte. For more information, call 704-973-2828 or visit www.ctcharlotte.org. April 1, 7:30 p.m.; April 2, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.; April 3, 2 p.m.; April 8, 7:30 p.m.; April 9, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.; April 10, 2 p.m.; April 16, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.; April 17, 2 p.m. $18-$24. ImaginOn's McColl Family Theatre, 300 East 7th St., Charlotte.

Mamma Mia On the eve of her wedding at a Greek island, a daughter invites three men - one of which is her father - to visit, thus surprising her mother. Music by ABBA propels this comedic tale of love, laughter and friendship. July 26, 7:30 p.m.; July 27, 7:30 p.m.; July 28, 7:30 p.m.; July 29, 8 p.m.; July 30, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; July 31, 1:30 p.m. & 7 p.m. $20 and up. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Masterpiece Presented by Davidson Community Players. Based on the book by author Meir Ribalow, this production follows Flemish artist Han van Meegeren's forgery of a 'masterpiece' by Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer. March 11, 8 p.m.; March 12, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; March 13, 2 p.m. $10-$18. Armour Street Theatre, 307 Armour St., Davidson. 704-892-7953. www.davidsoncommunityplayers.org.

A Midsummer Night's Dream William Shakespeare's magical classic of love and power is a featured production of the Shakespeare In Action Center's 36-in-6 Project. For more information, call 704-687-0229. April 18, 6 p.m.; April 19, 6 p.m.; April 20, 6 p.m.; April 21, 10 a.m. & 6 p.m.; April 26, 6 p.m.; April 27, 6 p.m.; April 28, 6 p.m.; April 29, 10 a.m. & 6 p.m.; April 30, 6 p.m.; May 1, 2 p.m. UNC-Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte. 704-687-8622. home.uncc.edu/.

Moon Over Buffalo Presented by Davidson Community Players. Ken Ludwig's comedy centers on George and Charlotte Hay, two aging thespians trying for one last shot at stardom. For more information, call 704-892-7953 or visit www.davidsoncommunityplayers.org. July 21, 8 p.m.; July 22, 8 p.m.; July 23, 8 p.m.; July 24, 2 p.m.; July 28, 8 p.m.; July 29, 8 p.m.; July 30, 8 p.m.; July 31, 2 p.m. $12-$22. Davidson College's Duke Family Performance Hall, 207 Faculty Drive, Davidson. 704-894-2361.

The Music Man Follows traveling salesman Harold Hill as he cons the people of Iowa into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys' band he vows to organize. Presented by Northwest School of the Arts. March 11, 7:30 p.m.; March 12, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; March 13, 2 p.m. $15. Booth Playhouse, 130 North Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Neon Psalms This play by Thomas Strelich is set at an isolated trailer home in the desert of Boron, California. The family consists of Luton Mears (a man obsessed with his turtles and Bonanza), his wife Patina (a religious fanatic) and their daughter (who has a bad reputation). This black comedy asks: Is there a substitute for the love of another human being, and if so, what is the price exacted? June 16-July 16. Carolina Actors Studio Theatre (CAST), 1118 Clement Ave., Charlotte. 704-455-8542. www.nccast.com.

Next To Normal This new emotional musical follows a family trying to take care of themselves and each other. July 12, 7:30 p.m.; July 13, 7:30 p.m.; July 14, 7:30 p.m.; July 15, 8 p.m.; July 16, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; July 17, 1:30 p.m. & 7 p.m. Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

The Princess Bride Citizens of the Universe presents performances of William Goldman's cult classic. For more information, visit www.citizensoftheuniverse.org. March 16-27. Breakfast Club, 225 N. Caldwell St. 704-374-1982. www.that80sclub.com.

Ragtime Presented by Davidson Community Players. Based on the novel by E.L. Doctorow, this production celebrates America's jazz roots and dance rhythms. It also explores the poignant emotional issues of immigration, racism, politics and social upheaval and family ties that are still relevant today. For more information, call 704-892-7953 or visit www.davidsoncommunityplayers.org. June 16, 8 p.m.; June 17, 8 p.m.; June 18, 8 p.m.; June 19, 2 p.m.; June 23, 8 p.m.; June 24, 8 p.m.; June 25, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. $12-$22. Davidson College's Duke Family Performance Hall, 207 Faculty Drive, Davidson. 704-894-2361.

Rising Water After a levee breaks and a city falls victim to devastating floodwaters, a married couple flees to their attic for survival. By John Biguenet. For more information, call 704-687-0229. March 23, 8 p.m.; March 24, 8 p.m.; March 25, 10 a.m. & 8 p.m.; March 26, 8 p.m.; March 27, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. UNC-Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte. 704-687-8622. home.uncc.edu/.

The Sound of Music Matthews Playhouse of Performing Arts presents Rodgers & Hammerstein's most beloved musical. For more information, visit www.matthewsplayhouse.com. June 10, 8 p.m.; June 11, 8 p.m.; June 12, 2 p.m.; June 17, 8 p.m.; June 18, 8 p.m.; June 19, 2 p.m.; June 24, 8 p.m.; June 25, 8 p.m.; June 26, 2 p.m. Matthews Community Center, 100 McDowell St., Matthews. 704-846-8343. www.matthewsplayhouse.com.

Spring Awakening The journey from youth to adulthood comes alive through morality, sexuality and rock 'n' roll. Contains adult language and content. Sun., March 13, 7 p.m. $20 and up. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Spring One-Act Festival A lively mixture of one-act plays directed by advanced theater students. Contains adult language and content. For more information or tickets, call 803-323-4014 or email boxoffice@winthrop.edu. April 8, 8 p.m.; April 9, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; April 10, 2 p.m. $15 for the public; $8 with Winthrop I.D. Winthrop University's Johnson Theatre, 115 Johnson Hall, Rock Hill. 803-323-2287. www.winthrop.edu/cvpa/theatredance/.

Tartuffe The Charlotte Shakespeare Festival presents this famous play by Moliere. For more information, visit www.collaborativeartstheatre.com. June 2, 8 p.m.; June 3, 8 p.m.; June 4, 8 p.m.; June 5, 6:30 p.m.; June 8, 8 p.m.; June 9, 8 p.m.; June 10, 8 p.m.; June 11, 8 p.m.; June 12, 6:30 p.m.; June 15, 8 p.m.; June 16, 8 p.m.; June 17, 8 p.m.; June 18, 8 p.m.; June 19, 6:30 p.m. No admission charge (suggested minimum donation of $5 per person). The Green, 435 S Tryon St.

[title of show] An original musical that chronicles the struggles of two writers to create a new musical in only three weeks. It also follows four friends, whose friendships are being tested as their lives progress. June 3, 8 p.m.; June 4, 8 p.m.; June 8, 7:30 p.m.; June 9, 7:30 p.m.; June 10, 8 p.m.; June 11, 8 p.m.; June 15, 7:30 p.m.; June 16, 7:30 p.m.; June 17, 8 p.m.; June 18, 8 p.m.; June 19, 2:30 p.m.; June 22, 7:30 p.m.; June 23, 7:30 p.m.; June 24, 8 p.m.; June 25, 8 p.m. $15 for previews on June 3 & 4; Pay what you can night on June 15; $24-$29 for all other shows. Actor's Theatre of Charlotte, 650 E. Stonewall St., Charlotte. 704-342-2251. www.actorstheatrecharlotte.org.

Tomas and the Library Lady Tarradiddle Players perform this production that's based on the book by Pat Mora. For ages 7 years old and up. For more information, call 704-973-2828 or visit www.ctcharlotte.org. April 29, 7:30 p.m.; April 30, 1 p.m. & 3 p.m.; May 1, 2 p.m.; May 6, 7:30 p.m.; May 7, 1 p.m.; May 8, 2 p.m. $14-$18. ImaginOn's Wachovia Playhouse, 300 E. 7th St., Charlotte.

Under The Rainbow Tarradiddle Players preschool show for ages 3-5 years old. Performance weaves together simple folktales, including "The Fisherman and His Wife," "There Was an Old Woman Who Swallowed a Fly" and "Bear Hunt." For more information, call 704-973-2828 or visit www.ctcharlotte.org. March 26, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.; March 27, 2 p.m. $10-$12. ImaginOn's Wachovia Playhouse, 300 E. 7th St., Charlotte.

Will Rogers Follies: A Life in Review The story of a beloved American figure remembered for his humor, wisdom and common sense. June 17, 8 p.m.; June 18, 8 p.m.; June 19, 2:30 p.m.; June 21, 7 p.m.; June 22, 7:30 p.m.; June 23, 7:30 p.m.; June 24, 8 p.m.; June 25, 8 p.m. CPCC's Pease Auditorium, 1200 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte. 704-330-6534. arts.cpcc.edu/performing-arts/theatre.

The Wizard of Oz Matthews Theatre of Performing Arts takes a journey down the yellow brick road. Based on Frank L. Baum's classic. For more information, visit www.matthewsplayhouse.com. March 31-April 3. Matthews Community Center, 100 McDowell St., Matthews. 704-846-8343. www.matthewsplayhouse.com.

Women of Will A funny, lively and insightful look at some of Shakespeare's female heroines as seen through the eyes of performer/teacher, Tina Packer. Presented by Collaborative Arts. For more information, visit www.collaborativeartstheatre.com. March 16, 7:30 p.m.; March 17, 7:30 p.m.; March 18, 8 p.m.; March 19, 8 p.m.; March 20, 3 p.m.; March 23, 7:30 p.m.; March 24, 7:30 p.m.; March 25, 8 p.m.; March 26, 8 p.m.; March 27, 3 p.m. $20-$25; 'Pay what you can' on March 16. Duke Energy Theatre, 345 North College St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Young Frankenstein The new Mel Brooks musical based on the Oscar-nominated 1974 film and Mary Shelley's classic tale. March 15, 7:30 p.m.; March 16, 7:30 p.m.; March 17, 7:30 p.m.; March 18, 8 p.m.; March 19, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; March 20, 1:30 p.m. & 7 p.m. $20 and up. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Zombie Prom Performed by the Senior Musical Theatre Company, this show tells the story of Jonny Warner - a new kid in town who becomes a zombie after diving into the nuclear plant. April 8; April 9; April 10. $10. Matthews Community Center, 100 McDowell St., Matthews. 704-846-8343. www.matthewsplayhouse.com.

Visual Arts

Bechtler Museum of Modern Art School of Paris: European Abstraction Post World War II. The exhibition presents more than 60 works (paintings, drawings, prints and artist books), by artists including Alfred Manessier, Gustave Singier, Alberto Magnelli, Pierre Soulages and Nicolas de Stael and many more. Continues through March 14. Niki de Saint Phalle: Creation of a New Mythology. Featuring sculptures, paintings and prints. March 18-Oct. 3. 420 South Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-353-9200. www.bechtler.org.

Center for the Arts Quilts Tell Stories. An exhibition of historic and contemporary quilts. March 25-April 28. 121 E. Main St., Rock Hill.

Christa Faut Gallery Kesler Woodward: The Forest and the Trees. Kesler Woodward's solo show. Continues through March 19. Augury-Laminar Flow. Featuring drawings and paintings by New York artist Scott Duce. Opening reception with the artist on March 26, from 4 p.m.-6 p.m. March 22-April 30. Quintessence. Featuring works by Ulysses Jackson. Opening reception with the artist on May 7, from 4 p.m.-6 p.m. May 3-June 25. 19818 N. Cove Road, Cornelius. 704-892-5312. www.christafautgallery.com.

CPCC ART GALLERIES Not My Day Job. Exhibition features work by people who make art while pursuing professional careers unrealted to art. Mon.-Thur., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Continues through March 18. The Art of Music: Selections from the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art's School of Paris Exhibit. Reception on April 11, from 4:30 p.m.-6 p.m. Held in Ross I and II Galleries. April 4-May 20. CPCC's Annual Juried Student Art Show. Reception on April 27, from 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Held in Pease Gallery. March 24-May 6. Works by Sarah Baron. Reception on June 3rd, from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Held in Ross I Gallery. May 31-July 10. Works by Michael Henry. Reception on June 3, from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Held in Ross II Gallery. May 31-July 10. Annual Art Department Exhibition. Held in Pease Gallery. May 23-Aug. 26. 1201 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte. 704-330-6211. arts.cpcc.edu/art-gallery.

Ciel Gallery Fire, Water, Earth, Air. A selection of mosaic art celebrating the four elements. Receptions on April 1 and May 6, from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Continues through May 20. 1519 Camden Road, Charlotte. 704-577-1254. www.cielcharlotte.com.

Dialect Art Gallery Shift: New Works By Sharon Dowell. Dowell incorporates references to the ever changing political and social environment in this exhibition of paintings and installation. Opening reception on Friday, March 11, from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. March 11-31. 3204 North Davidson St., Suite C, Charlotte.

Elder Art Gallery Old is New Again. Featuring illustrations and paintings by early twentieth century artists Ernest Walker and Leon Makielski. Continues through. March 29. Solo Exhibition: Carl Plansky, Abstract Expressionist. Featuring a selection of paintings from the late artist's collection. Plansky is best known for infusing color, movement and texture into his rich paintings. April 1-30. Classic Beauty. Featuring paintings by Pittsburg artist Diane White. May 6-31. Abstraction, Volume 2. Featuring abstract paintings by several artists. June 3-29. Ten Years of Celebrating Art. Elder Gallery celebrates its 10 year anniversary with a group show, featuring works by an array of talented artists. July 1-Aug. 30. 1427 South Blvd., Charlotte. 704-370-6337. www.elderart.com.

Green Rice Gallery Systems and Organisms. Featuring new paintings by Richard Babusci. Continues through March 27. Beauty in the Broken: New Works by Kendra Baird. Kendra's newest paintings reflect her travels and experiences with cultures abroad, as well her own home land. Opening artist reception on Friday, April 1, from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. April 1-May 29. Blurring the Lines. Featuring photography by Cate Eble. Opening artist reception on Friday, June 3, from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. June 3-26. 451 E. 36th St. 704-344-0300. www.green-rice.com.

Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture What My Mother Told Me. Featuring art by Maria Magdalena Campos-Pons. Continues through June 19. Black Music After 1968. Featuring the photography of Jim Alexander. Continues through June 19. John & Vivian Hewitt Collection of African-American Art. Featuring works by Romare Bearden, Margaret Burroughs, Jonathan Green, Jacob Lawrence, Elizabeth Catlett, Ann Tanksley and Henry Ossawa Tanner. Continues through March 20. Artists-in-Residence Exhibit. Featuring new works by Fahamu Pecou and Marcia Jones. Daily. Singing Haiti. Featuring works by Edouard Duval Carrie. March 18-June 19. Faces, Places and Spaces. Featuring art by Jeanne Moutoussamy-Ashe. Daily. 551 South Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-547-3700. www.ganttcenter.org.

Hidell Brooks Gallery My Third Grader Could Do That!. Hyper-realism artist Bill Braun creates what appears to be something from a third grade art project. What appears to be loosely assembled construction paper, masking tape, staples and brown craft paper is in reality acrylic paint on a flat canvas. Continues through March 26. Clarksdale Place: Dallas, TX. Featuring paintings by Charles Walker. Continues through March 26. Works by Julia Katz and Jeffrey Red. Featuring works by artists Julia Katz and Jeffrey Red. April 1-May 14. Works by Paige Laughlin. Featuring works by artist Paige Laughlin. May 20-June 25. 1910 S. Blvd., Suite 130, Charlotte. 704-334-7302. www.hidellbrooks.com.

Hodges Taylor Gallery Surroundings: Photography X 4. Featuring works by photographers Linda Foard Roberts, Alice Sebrell, Sonia Handelman Meyer and Ida Wyman. Continues through April 29. 401 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-334-3799. www.hodgestaylor.com.

Jerald Melberg Gallery Flora Dreams: Paintings and Works on Paper. An exhibit of paintings and works on paper by Robert Kushner, an artist known for his richly textured and opulent paintings of flowers and plant forms. Continues through April 9. Works by Ernesto Berra and Raul Diaz. Two exhibitions of paintings and works on paper by the Argentine artists, Ernesto Berra and Raul Diaz. April 16-June 4. 625 S. Sharon Amity Road, Charlotte. 704-365-3000. www.jeraldmelberg.com.

Johnson C. Smith University Free Radicals. The exhibit revolves around class struggle and the efforts to improve social standing in the world today. It includes works by local artist Antoine Williams and poems by Kirsten Hemmy. Continues through April 30. 100 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte. 704-378-1000.

JULIAS COFFEE Love Lines. An exhibit of pen and ink illustrations by Charlotte artist Katrina Nixon. Continues through March 31. 1133 N Wendover Road, Charlotte. 704-962-2467. www.juliascoffee.org.

LARK & KEY GALLERY, SOUTHEND LOCATION Inhabitants & Happenstance. Featuring new works by Duy Huynh and Amy Sanders. Opening reception Friday, April 1. April 1-May 28. Second Nature. Group exhibition of works. Opening reception on Friday, June 3. June 1-July 30. 128 E. Park Ave., Suite B, Charlotte. 704-334-4616. www.larkandkey.com.

The Light Factory Bring the Family. Photographers Tina Barney, Lydia Panas, Catalina Kulczar-Marin and Natalie Young explore the need for family, friends, and home. Held in Knight Gallery. Continues through May 22. Body & Soul. Featuring works that experiment in figurative subject matter by renowned photographers Joyce Tenneson, Jock Sturges and Mona Kuhn. Held in Middleton McMillan Gallery. Continues through May 15. Self Image. Students from Hawthorne High School and Myers Park High School share how they define themselves through conceptual photographs and stop-motion animations relating to identity and commonly encountered stereotypes. Held in Loch Walker & Skyway Galleries. March 3-April 10. The Light Factory Fourth Juried Annuale. Features a variety of works by photographers and artists across the country, as selected by The Light Factory. Held in Knight Gallery. May 31-Sept. 25. The 40th Annual Members Show. Showcases works in a variety of mediums and formats by The Light Factory's diverse member base. Held in Middleton McMillan Gallery. May 23-Aug. 28. My Family, Our Stories: Outreach Exhibition featuring English as Second Language students. The exhibition offers a glimpse into the lives of youth who recently immigrated to Charlotte and the US. Countries of origin include Mexico, Puerto Rico, Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia Russia, Vietnam, Jordan, El Salvador, Turkey, India and more. Held in Loch Walker and Skyway Galleries. April 25-Aug. 1. 345 N. College St., Charlotte. 704-333-9755. www.lightfactory.org.

McColl Center for Visual Art Dis(Comfort). Featuring conceptual, interactive, electronic, hybrid media installations by John Osorio-Buck and Scott Townsend. Continues through March 19. The Green Shadow. Featuring works by Jeff Schmuki and Heather Lewis. Schmuki site-specific work will address fragility, decomposition and rebirth. Lewis' installations, paintings, wall and floor drawings and sculptures incorporate aspects of technology, light, shadows and gravity. Opening reception on April 15, from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. April 15-Aug. 19. 721 N. Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-332-5535. www.mccollcenter.org.

Mint Hill Arts Earth to Sky. Featuring select works, including pottery by Ralph Mello and paintings by Jennie Tomlin. March 11-31. Mint Hill Arts Annual Student Art Exhibit. April 8-May 5. Music Inspirations. Featuring art inspired by a childhood songs. May 13-June 2. Mint Hill Arts Annual Spring Juried Exhibit. Competitive show featuring an array of art by both members and non-members. June 10-30. Grace Building, 7714 Matthews-Mint Hill Road. 704-545-0894. www.minthillarts.org.

Mint Museum Randolph Chanel: Designs for the Modern Woman. The exhibit presents 20th and 21st century works by one of the most renowned designers of women's garments in the world. May 21-Dec. 31. Chinese Court Robes: The Mint Museum Collection. A hierarchy of color and decoration distinguished the rank of the wearers, from the imperial family to general citizenry. Continues through Dec. 31. The Golden Age of English Art. The 18th century witnessed the "Golden Age of English Art" in which artists explored the variety and abundance of the times. Portraiture ranked high, but no aspect of English life was exempt from the artist's eye, which recorded the triumphs and changes in society. Continues through Dec. 31. The Heights of Fashion: Platform Shoes Then and Now. The exhibition showcases an array of diverse and unique platform shoes from the 1930's through the present. Continues through May 30. The Transformed Self: Performance Masks of Mexico. The works presented in this exhibition come from the primary mask-producing regions of Mexico where dance performances commonly accompany religious rituals and civic events. This includes masks from the states of Veracruz, Puebla, Tlaxcala, Sonora, Sinaloa, Michoacán, Hidalgo and Guerrero. Continues through Dec. 31. 2730 Randolph Road., Charlotte. 704-337-2009. www.mintmuseum.org.

The Mint Museum Uptown Attitude and Alchemy: The Metalwork of Gary Lee Noffke. Featuring Noffke's hollowware, flatware, and jewelry, the exhibit captures the artist's rebellious nature, while examining his methodology, his evolution of style and the impact he has made on the field of metal. April 2-Sept. 11. Closing Reception for Contemporary British Studio Ceramics: The Grainer Collection. Featuring discussions by leading international art scholars and artists. Thu., March 10, 3-7 p.m. Contemporary British Studio Ceramics: The Grainer Collection. The exhibition is comprised of functional and sculptural objects, from the 1980s through the present. It includes works by Lucie Rie, Julian Stair, Kate Malone and Grayson Perry. Continues through March 13. Conversations with Artists: Abstractionism. Deborah Norris and Jonathan Rice (represented by Green Rice Gallery) will discuss abstractionism. Tue., April 5, 7 p.m. From New York to Corrymore: Robert Henri and Ireland. The exhibit examines Henri's fascination with Irish landscape and people (particularly children), during the second half of his career. May 7-Aug. 7. Janet Biggs:Going to Extremes.New Visions: Contemporary Masterworks from Bank of America. The exhibition highlights strengths of Bank of America's post World War II collection. Works focus on intense color and geometry as an organizing principle. Artists in the exhibition, include Frank Stella, Ellsworth Kelly, Elizabeth Murray and Jennifer Bartlett, among others. Continues through April 17. 500 South Tryon St., Charlotte. 704-337-2009. www.mintmuseum.org.

Presbyterian Hospital Matthews Matthews Artist Guild Spring Show. Awards reception on Thursday, March 24, from 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. March 19-April 24. 1500 Matthews Township Pkwy, Matthews.

Providence Gallery Paul Simon Solo Show. Charlotte clothier and philanthropist Paul Simon presents his vibrant and bold interpretations of land and seascapes from across the Carolinas and Europe. Opening reception with the artist on Friday, April 1. April 1-29. The Everyday Extraordinary. Featuring new landscape paintings by Ann Watcher, Lita Gatlin and Isabel Forbes. Opening reception with the artists on Friday, March 11. March 11-31. 601 Providence Road, Suite A, Charlotte. 704-333-4535. www.providencegallery.net.

Redsky Gallery New Works by Lisa Creed, Alice DeLisle & Andrew Linton. Featuring art by mixed media painter Lisa Creed and ceramic artists Alice DeLisle and Andrew Linton. Opening reception on Friday, March 25, from 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. March 25-May 10. New Works by Ingrid Amols and James Breed. Featuring paintings by Ingrid Amols and glass works by James Breed. Opening reception on Friday, May 13, from 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. May 13-July 12. 1523 Elizabeth Ave., Suite 120, Charlotte. 704-377-6400. www.redskygallery.com.

TWENTY-TWO Black Eyes & Broken Hearts. Featuring works by artists (a great deal of them are professional tattooists),from outside the local area. April 1-30. Solo Show. Featuring works by local artist Chalkboard. May 1-31. Comic Show. Featuring comic art by national and local artists attending the Heroes Comic Con. June 1-30. 1500 Central Ave., Charlotte. 704-334-0122. www.gallerytwentytwo.com.

Winthrop University Galleries 23rd Annual Undergraduate Juried Exhibition. Featuring student-artist works, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, jewelry/metals, photography and more. Held in Rutledge Gallery. Continues through March 25. RubberMADE. Featuring a collection of objects, both interactive and wearable, by Courtney Starrett. Held in Elizabeth Dunlap Patrick Gallery. Continues through March 25. Undergraduate Intercollegiate Jewelry and Metals Exhibition. Held in Lewandowski Student Gallery (McLaurin Hall). Gallery reception on March 25, from 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. March 7-25. Tables. Held in Lewandowski Student Gallery (McLaurin Hall). April 4-15. B.F.A. Senior Undergraduate Exhibition. Held in Rutledge Gallery (Rutledge Building). Opening reception on April 15, from 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. April 11-May 6. M.F.A. Thesis Exhibition. Held in Elizabeth Dunlap Patrick Gallery (Rutledge Building). Opening reception on April 15, from 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. April 11-May 6. Interior Design Student Exhibition. Held in Lewandowski Student Gallery (McLaurin Hall). April 25-May 6. 107 McLaurin, Rock Hill. 803-323-2493.