“The Tina Turner Musical”

Has Arrived by Chris Narloch

It will be bittersweet to see “Tina – The Tina Turner Musical” so soon after the legendary singer’s passing, but I wouldn’t miss it for the world, when the hit Broadway show performs in the Bay Area this summer.

The first thing to know is that the jukebox musical based on Turner’s rollercoaster life and career is no post-mortem cash grab. The show was authorized by Tina long before she died, and she even flew from her home in Switzerland in ill health to attend the musical’s Opening Night in New York City.

Lucky for us, the musical’s national tour has reached the West Coast and will grace the stage of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Theatre for four weeks this August 1-27.

An uplifting comeback story like no other, “Tina – The Tina Turner Musical” is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers to become the Queen of Rock n’ Roll. Set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits, this electrifying show is guaranteed to have you on your feet and singing along with her iconic hits.

One of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, Tina Turner won 12 Grammy Awards and her live shows were seen by millions, with more concert tickets sold than for any other solo performer in music history.

“Tina – The Tina Turner Musical” was written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Katori Hall and directed by the internationally acclaimed Phyllida Lloyd. For more information, please visit www.broadwaysf.com/events/tina

SF Mime Troupe Will Perform in Davis

The Tony Award-winning San Francisco Mime Troupe (SFMT), now in their 64th sensational season, returns to doing what they love and do best – free, live political musical theater all around Northern California.

SFMT’s current production is “Breakdown: A New Musical,” a comedic exploration of some serious and topical subject matter. Sometimes it’s not all just happening in your mind.

In an insane society how can we help those struggling with actual mental illness? And who is driving the country insane? The social worker drowning in the bureaucracy needed to help their unhoused client? Or the news anchor, who feeds anxiety with “breaking news” of daily atrocities and political scapegoating rather than the real “Who, What, Where and Why?”

You can check out this free production in Davis, on Thursday evening, Aug. 3, inside Richard Brunelle Performance Hall, at Davis High School. You must RSVP at: sfmt.org/davisrsvp

Out & About with Matthew Burlingame

Every summer, we talk about how hot it is, but this year the heat is worse than ever. The future of our planet depends on taking immediate action to halt global warming. Remember, there are many things you can do to help, including voting for candidates who will truly lead the way in healing our planet. But, there’s no harm in having some fun along the way, and here are a few events to explore in the coming weeks.

Experience an evening of frivolity hosted by the fabulous DoMe Moore at the August Drag Queen Bingo on Thursday, Aug. 3, at 7 p.m. Join the fun at Mango’s, 1930 K St., as they raise funds for the Natomas Garden and Arts Club. Rainbowchamber.com.

Cirque du Soleil’s captivating arena production “Corteo” is set to dazzle audiences at the Golden 1 Center, 500 David J Stern Walk, from Aug. 3-6. This enchanting show has mesmerized over 10 million spectators across 20 countries and 4 continents since its premiere in 2005. Don’t miss this extraordinary experience! Golden1center.com.

Get ready for an evening of thoughtprovoking political musical theater as the Tony Award-Winning San Francisco Mime Troupe opens their 64th Season with “Breakdown: The Musical.” Join them on Thursday, Aug. 3, at 7 p.m. at Davis HS, Richard Brunelle Performance Hall, 315 W 14th St. in Davis. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience their renowned live free performances. SFMT.org.

Don’t miss the “Up Your Alley” event at Folsom St. in San Francisco on Sunday, July 30 from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Join leatherfolk in their finest gear and experience the heart of the kink/leather/alt sex communities. Show up and show out in your gear: leather, rubber, or whatever gets you off and enjoy an electrifying lineup of DJs, gogo dancers, and bondage & kink performers. Folsomstreetevents.org.

Prepare to be captivated by “Hello Gorgeous!” on Sunday, Aug. 6, at 3 p.m. as Rebecca Clark channels the spirit of Barbra Streisand, recreating her iconic performances from stage, screen, and television at the Harris Center for the Arts, 10 College Pkwy. in Folsom. Expect an array of Streisand’s greatest hits and surprises that will keep you entertained throughout the evening. Don’t miss this delightful celebration of one of the greatest entertainers of our time! Harriscenter.net.

Discover the powerful exhibition “A Gathering: Works from Contemporary Black American Artists” at the Crocker Art Museum. Running through Aug. 20, this curated showcase of sculptural and functional ceramics highlights the contributions of thirty-five Black American artists, showcasing their talent, history, challenges, and triumphs. Immerse yourself in their compelling narratives at Crocker Art Museum, 216 O St. Crockerart.org.

Discover your new best friend at the Pet Adoption Event hosted by Finding A Best Friend Rescue on Saturday, Aug. 5, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Join us at Pet Food Express, located at 4710 Freeport Blvd., Ste. 110. Experience the unconditional love and companionship that pets bring to our lives. Petfood.express.

Experience the coolness of watching retro movie classics in a theater! Join us on Friday, Aug. 4, at 7 p.m. at Crest Sacramento, 1013 K St. for a special double feature of “Gremlins” and “Gremlins 2: The New Batch.” Also, get to see Zach Galligan live! Don’t miss this awesome cinematic event. Crestsacramento.com.

Experience the joy of community and the refreshing outdoor ambiance at Music in the Park, hosted by Sierra 2 Center. Join us on Sunday, July 30, from 6 to 8 p.m. at William Curtis Park. Bring a blanket, chairs, and a picnic (no alcohol please) to groove to live music, including The Green Grass Snakes. Sierra2.org.

Experience the compelling tale of “Ragtime” at UC Davis Health Pavilion, 1419 H St., from Aug. 8-13. The story follows three families on their journey towards the American Dream. Broadwaysacramento.com. For events, birthdays, and announcements, send them to matthew@hengemedia.com.