#5: LCD Soundsystem at The Rave.
Why? Because James Murphy – the slightly disheveled man behind LCD – is part Woody Allen, part Laurie Anderson, and part music producer genius. He’s proclaimed his latest album, This is Happening, will be his last. But if we show him how much we love his imaginative beats and textures – and his deadpan lyrics – maybe we can change his mind.
#4: Art of Murder at In Tandem Theatre.
Why? Because art can be a nasty business. Just eavesdrop on a cluster of artist types at a Gallery Night and you might just hear the kind of vitriol to make you blush. Actually, Milwaukeeans are a bit more civil regarding aesthetic matters, but Joe DiPietro’s comedy-thriller is a slice of the high-echelon art world complete with a scheming dealer, an eccentric artist, and a living room “isolation tank” (remember Altered States?).
#3: Milwaukee Choral Artists at St. Matthew’s Church.
Why? Because there ain’t nothing funny about peace, love and understanding. And Sharon Hansen’s superb choral ensemble makes that case and more with a selection of music that offers a meditation on the human cost of war and the hope for peace. And because the group is joined by the excellent Chicago Chamber Choir.
#2: LGBT Film Festival at UWM Theatre.
Why? Because this annual festival (now in its 23rd year) just gets better and better (and bigger). Because it opens Thursday night (at the Oriental Theatre) with the charming and lively Topp Twins, a documentary about New Zealand’s most popular yodeling lesbian twins. Because it includes the best LGBT films from around the world (including a screening of the classic 1958 remake of Madchen in Uniform). Be sure to catch the closing night selection, the searing drama from the Bahamas, Children of God.
#1: Rio de Sangre at Florentine Opera.
Why? Because it’s the first world premiere in the Florentine’s history. Because it’s the first opera by film composer Don Davis (the man behind the Matrix music). And because it’s a collaboration between some of Milwaukee’s best and brightest – including director Paula Suozzi and choreographer Simone Ferro – and artists from around the opera world. And though it’s about political intrigue in Latin America, this ain’t no Evita. And that’s a good thing.
