AUGUST HAPPENINGS

NURSE BLAKE “SHOCKADVISED!”

When: Aug. 8

Where: Symphony Hall, 75 N. 2nd St., Phoenix

What: Prepare for laughter with Nurse Blake’s latest comedy tour “Shockadvised!” A humorous exploration of nursing life, the show invites everyone for a night of hilarious stories and nursing insights. Anticipate a crowd of healthcare workers, promising a safe yet wildly entertaining experience. Don’t miss this energetic and fun-filled evening that may just require an AED! Info: phoenixconventioncenter.com

FRIENDS OF THE ORPHEUM THEATRE PRESENTS “JAWS”

When: Aug. 8

Where: Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix

What: The Friends of the Orpheum Theatre, in collaboration with Downtown Phoenix, Inc., will screen the classic film “Jaws.” Experience the thrilling tale of a great white shark in an award-winning cinematic marvel at one of downtown Phoenix’s most stunning historic venues. This fundraising event contributes towards the preservation and educational initiatives of the Orpheum Theatre. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a classic while supporting a historic landmark. Info: phoenixconventioncenter.com

AZRHA INSIDE SLIDE

When: Aug. 8 – 12

Where: Westworld, 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale

What: Get ready for the Inside Slide event! Offering a blend of fun-filled activities like youth fundraisers, exciting raffles, and delicious morning treats, the event promises to be a family affair. Whether you’re an aspiring competitor, a beginner eager to master the art of “slide and spin,” or a spectator fascinated by reining horse sports, this Arizona Association event has something for all. Experience a welcoming atmosphere and a range of NHRA-approved classes.

Info: azrha.com/inside-slide

BECK & PHOENIX

When: Aug. 11

Where: Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix

What: Renowned artists Beck and Phoenix will co-headline the Summer Odyssey Tour, stopping at Footprint Center with Japanese Breakfast and Sir Chloe. Beck, an eight-time Grammy-winner and 2022 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominee, broke through with his 1994 hit “Loser.” Phoenix, a French band lauded for albums like “Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix” and “Bankrupt!,” shares an equal reputation in the music industry.

Info: footprintcenter.com/events/beckphoenix

“THE JUNO SHOW”

When: Aug. 17

Where: Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix

What: Prepare for a cosmic spectacle with “The Juno Show,” featuring the celebrated alien drag queen, Juno Birch, in her theatrical solo performance. Anticipate a riotous display of self-love through playful songs and eccentric dance moves, aided by her puppet offspring. This stage extravaganza promises laughter, lobsters, and legs. Get ready, Earth, for a delightfully chaotic evening of unparalleled entertainment!

Info: phoenixconventioncenter.com

“DISASTER!”

When: Aug. 18 – Sept. 13

Where: Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria

What: The uproarious new musical “Disaster!” direct from Broadway, parodies the iconic ‘70s disaster movies with unforgettable hits like “Knock on Wood” and “Hot Stuff.” The comedic musical, penned by SiriusXM’s On Broadway host Seth Rudetsky and Jack Plotnick, is teeming with colorful characters and memorable ‘70s anthems. The plot follows the chaos aboard a disaster-prone casino boat, struck by calamities including an earthquake and a swarm of bees, yet the eccentric crew continues their merry disco revelries. Info: azbroadway.org

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party

When: Aug. 19 & 20

Where: Desert Diamond Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale

What: Get ready for Glendale’s first Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party! Watch as your favorite monster trucks like Mega Wrex and Tiger Shark battle it out under vibrant lights. The event also debuts ARCTICGON, a firebreathing dragon, and heart-pounding Freestyle Motocross stunts. Childfriendly pricing makes this an affordable family treat!

Info: hotwheelsmonstertruckslive.com

Foreigner

When: Aug. 20

Where: Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix

What: The iconic rock band Foreigner announced their Farewell Tour, which includes a performance at the Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, featuring special guest Loverboy. Having captivated audiences for more than three decades with chart-topping hits like “Juke Box Hero,” “Urgent,” and “Cold as Ice,” Foreigner is embarking on their Historic Farewell Tour. This highly anticipated event is set to celebrate the band’s impressive musical journey. With a repertoire of songs that have become rock music staples, the concluding tour of Foreigner is shaping up to be an unforgettable musical experience.

Info: talkingstick.ticketsoffice.org

“HOWARD THE DUCK” WITH ALL PUPPET PLAYERS

When: Aug. 20

Where: Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix

What: Prepare for a unique cinematic experience with the All Puppet Players at the illustrious Orpheum Theatre. This audacious group offers a humorous spin on the Marvel film classic, “Howard the Duck.” Expect an evening filled with laughter and playful banter as these comical puppets take the center stage, providing an unforgettable twist to your usual movie night.

Info: phoenixconventioncenter.com

Beyonc Renaissance World Tour

When: Aug. 24

Where: State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals

Dr., Glendale

What: Global superstar Beyoncé is set to return to the spotlight with her Renaissance World Tour, marking her first solo tour in more than half a decade. This highly anticipated event signifies a major comeback for the renowned artist.

Info: statefarmstadium.com

“BEETLEJUICE”

When: Aug. 24 – 27

Where: ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave, Tempe

What: Following a successful stint on Broadway, the whimsical ghost-withthe-most is bringing his spectacle to Tempe. Prepare for a theatrical delight! This comedic musical, based on the much-loved Tim Burton film, unfolds the peculiar tale of Lydia Deetz, an eccentric teenager whose life takes an unexpected turn upon encountering a recently deceased couple and a stripe-loving demon. With its cheeky script, breathtaking set design, and an otherworldly musical score, “Beetlejuice” is hailed as “incredibly entertaining” by “Variety.” Beneath its humor-filled veneer, this performance reveals a heartfelt narrative about family, love, and cherishing every moment of existence.

Info: asugammage.com/Beetlejuice

QUILT, CRAFT, AND SEWING FESTIVAL

When: Aug. 31

Where: Westworld, 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale

What: Join the vibrant Quilt, Craft, and Sewing Festival. A paradise for enthusiasts, it boasts a diverse range of exhibits from top-notch companies in sewing, quilting, needle-art, and craft supplies. Engage with live demonstrations and enrich your crafting skills. Don’t miss this creative festivity!

Info: quiltcraftsew.com

COUNTING CROWS: BANSHEE SEASON

TOUR WITH FRANK TURNER

When: Aug. 31

Where: Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix

What: The Counting Crows will sweep across 56 North American cities during their 2023 Banshee Season tour, accompanied by Dashboard Confessional in all but seven shows. Additionally, special guest Frank Turner will join the lineup for selected performances. It promises to be a riveting musical journey for all attendees.

Info: arizonafinancialtheatre.com

ON DECK: SEPTEMBER

KIDZ BOP KIDS

When: Sept. 2

Where: Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix

What: Enjoy an engaging performance from the KIDZ BOP Kids as they bring today’s most popular songs to life on stage, featuring hits like “As It Was,” “About That Time,” and “AntiHero,” amongst others. Designed as a family-friendly pop concert, it offers an opportunity for children and their families to create enduring memories. Make sure to seize this chance for an unforgettable experience!

Info: kidzbop.com/tour

SAM SMITH

When: Sept. 3

Where: Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix

What: Celebrated multi-platinum, Grammy, BRIT, Golden Globe, and Oscar-winning artist Sam Smith marks his first North American tour since 2018 with Gloria The Tour. Phoenix’s Footprint Center will host the tour with Jessie Reyez as a special guest. Smith’s fourth album, “Gloria,” features the Grammy-nominated single with Kim Petras, a chart-topper worldwide and 2022’s only pop collaboration to earn RIAA Platinum certification.

Info: footprintcenter.com/events/samsmith