Alan Parsons Live Project Rocks Carnegie Library of Homestead Music Hall

See Rick Handler's concert review. Pictured is Alan Parsons performing in a 2017 concert. (Photo: Andemaya and Wikipedia)

The 57th Carnegie International Brings World Art to Pittsburgh

The Carnegie International is one of the top exhibitions of contemporary art anywhere. See Mike Vargo's detailed review. Pictured: Postcommodity's 'From Smoke and Tangled Waters, We Carried Fire Home.' (photo: Bryan Conley)

'Bohemian Rhapsody:'A Fast Ride Through Freddie Mercury's Life

Sex, drugs, and rock and roll are all ingredients in the film. See Rick Handler's review.

Bedford: A Historic Town with Many Fun Activities

Rick Handler traveled to Bedford, PA to learn about its history, hike, and relax. See his travel dispatch.

The Public Stages Zany Adaptation of 'Pride and Prejudice'

This is Marya Sea Kaminski's first play as artistic director. See Mike Vargo's review. (Photo: Michael Henninger).

Cultural Trusts' New Pittsburgh International Festival of Firsts

Arts and Entertainment companies from around the globe and locally will debut premieres here in Pittsburgh over 8 weeks. See Rick Handler's story and overview. Pictured: South Africa's Baxter Theatre Center.

Quantum Staging 'Chatterton' at Trinity Cathedral

History has many faces. So does deception. Quantum Theatre's 'Chatterton' is an examination of what's real and what's not. See Mike vargo's review. (Photo: Jason Snyder)

Matthew McConaughey and Richie Merritt Star in Detroit Crime Drama 'White Boy Rick'

See Rick Handler's film review.

Entertainment Central Pittsburgh = Organically Grown. Local Media

High quality, fun stories, previews, and reviews from a top team of writers, editors, and photographers.

Lynyrd Skynyrd Soars in Concert at KeyBank

See Rick Handler's concert review. Skynyrd at the end of a set in New Brockton, Alabama in 2008. (Photo: jayuzi and Wikipedia).

‘Adman: Warhol Before Pop’ Shows Warhol’s Early New York City Years

See Rick Handler's review of the Warhol Museum's exhibit. The Andy Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh, © The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc.

12 Peers Theater is Presenting 'Stupid Fucking Bird'

See Mike Vargo's review. (Photo: Gregory Messmer)

Arcade Fire Delivers Hot Show at Stage AE

See Christopher Maggios review of the concert. Arcade Fire performing in 2014. (Photo: Andreas Meixensperger and Wikipedia.)

CLO Goes 'The Full Monty'

See Mike Vargo's review of the musical. (Photo: Matt Polk).

Alida's Woodfired Cucina, New Italian Restaurant in Lawrenceville

Both traditional and contemporary Italian fare are found at Alida's. See Rick Handler's review.

The Clarks Perform Outdoor Concert at Stage AE for New Album Release

The venue was packed with fans anxious to hear old faves and the new songs. See Rick Handler's review and photos.

Restored Parkway Theater Offers Movies and Much More.

A film lounge, comedians, and freshly made brews from Abjuration Brewing, are some of the interesting things found at the theater. See Christoper Maggio's story.

Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real Play Arts Fest

Nelson and band drew a large crowd to Point State Park for the show. See Rick Handler's review and photos.

Aftershock Theatre Staging 'Orphans'

' Two orphaned brothers are joined together in a dysfunctional relationship. See Mike Vargo's review. Photo: Nicolette Kalafatis.

'Solo: A Star Wars Story' Latest in Film Franchise

Rick Handler reviews the new film and gets drawn back into the series. See his rundown.

The EC Early Summer Short List

Mike Vargo has curated a fun and diverse set of events and attractions for early to mid-summer. Photo: Jason North.

Portugal. The Man Delivers a Dynamic Show at Stage AE

The concert featured their originals plus a few well known covers. See Christopher Maggio's review. The band performing in 2016. Photo: Trevor Bolliger and Wikipedia.

'Hir' Onstage at barebones productions.

There are several 'revolting' developments in the play. See Mike Vargo's review. Photo: Jeff Swensen.

The Public's Staging Shakespeare Classic 'Hamlet'

See Rick Handler's review of this dramatic tale. Photo: Michael Henninger

Paint the Square Green: Concerts, Environmental Vendors and Displays

The event was part of multi-day festivities by Pittsburgh Earth Day. See Rick Handler's photo story. Pictured here is Byron Nash & Plan B.

'Beirut' is a Suspenseful and Smart Action Film

The story takes place in Lebanon during their civil war. See Rick Handler's review.

City Theatre Staging 'The White Chip'

Mike Vargo takes a deep dive into this seriocomic, true tale of addiction and recovery from playwright Sean Daniels about his own life. Photo: Kristi Jan Hoover.

The Frick Exhibits Works by ‘Van Gogh, Monet, Degas’

A traveling exhibit from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts includes Van Gogh's 'The Wheat Field behind St. Paul's Hospital, St. Rémy.' See Mike Vargo's review. Photo: Katherine Wetzel, © Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

Eddie Money Rocks the Palace

See Rick Handlers review of the show.

City Theatre's 'Citizens Market' Opens for Business

See Mike Vargo's review of this world premiere play by Cori Thomas. Photo: Kristi Jan Hoover.

Touring Cast of Broadway's 'Waitress' at Benedum

Opening night was a sweet affair. See Rick Handler's review. Photo: Joan Marcus.

From Peach Baskets to Pittsburgh

James Naismith invented basketball. The NCAA Tournament games in Pittsburgh will showcase the game's current state of the art. See our story.

'Holmes and Watson' Makes Pittsburgh Premiere at Kinetic Theatre

Three men in an insane asylum claim to be Sherlock Holmes; could one of them actually be Holmes? See Mike Vargo's review. Photo: Rocky Raco.

Pittsburgh Ballet Staging Tchaikovsky's 'Swan Lake.'

The 'Dance of the Swans' is a magical moment from the ballet. See Rick Handler's review. Photo: Rich Sofranko.

G3 Guitarists Satriani, Petrucci, and Collen Give Blazing Performance.

All three brought their favorite guitars and showed their prowess. Photo from 2006 G3 tour with Steve Vai, who's spot is now filled by Phil Collen.(l. to r.) Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, and John Petrucci. See Rick Handler's review. Photo: Mandy Hall and Wikipedia.

Wood Street Galleries Exhibiting Video Art by Ryoichi Kurokawa & Novi_sad

Mike Vargo goes on a fantastic voyage with the galleries' video art installations. See his review.

'Rules of Seconds' Opens at barebones productions

A new dramatic comedy about the duel roles of men and women. See Mike Vargo's review.

The Pittsburgh Humanities Festival Features Top Speakers and Events

NPR host Guy Raz is one of the speakers at the festival. See Christopher Maggio's preview. Photo: New America and Wikipedia.

Cirque du Soleil’s 'Crystal' Flies on Air and Ice

See Mike Vargo's preview of the new Cirque du Soleil show. Photo: Matt Beard.

Lunchtime Hot Spots for Jurors and Citizens

Chosen to serve on a jury trial, Rick Handler viewed it as an opportunity to visit some Downtown dining establishments. See his dispatch.

'Darkest Hour' Follows Winston Churchill During World War II

Gary Oldman gives a powerful performance as Churchill. See Rick Handler's review.

Highmark First Night Pittsburgh Preview

See what the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust has planned for this year's New Year's Eve celebration. Mike Vargo details the event.

Kinetic Theatre Staging Boomer Satire Play 'Love, Love, Love'

The production follows a creepy couple from their start in the '60s to the '10s and their lust for life. See Mike Vargo's review. Photo: Rocky Raco.

Not a Typical Holiday Play

The Public's 'The Humans' tears up a turkey dinner party; see Mike Vargo's review. (Photo: Michael Henninger)

Stephen Chbosky's Latest Film, 'Wonder,' a Touching Drama

Julia Roberts plays Isabel and Jacob Tremblay is her son Auggie. See Rick Handler's review.

Writer/Director Stephen Chbosky's 'Wonder' Set for Release

Rick Handler interviewed Chbosky about his latest film and other upcoming projects. Photo: Dale Robinette.

The Warhol Exhibits First Solo Show of Farhad Moshiri

The Iranian artist explores cross-cultural connections through his multimedia pop art in "Go West.' See Mike Vargo's review. Photo: ‘Yipeeee!’ (2009) by Farhad Moshiri, private collection, London, photo by Guillaume Ziccarelli.

Superior Motors Crafts Creative Meals in Braddock

Rick Handler details his culinary experiences at the much-anticipated new restaurant from Chef Kevin Sousa. Pictured: veal crowned with apple slices.

Nick Offerman to Bring Full Bush Comedy Tour to Pittsburgh

The comedian spoke with Rick Handler about his standup comedy show and how the U.S. can come together more.

Chef Lidia Bastianich Visited Pittsburgh to Showcase Her Latest Cookbook

Rick Handler spoke with Lidia about her new book 'Celebrate Like an Italian,' her life and businesses.

Chef Kevin Sousa's Culinary Journey Led him to Braddock

Rick Handler details Sousa's rise as a chef and how he chose the town for his latest restaurant, Superior Motors.

The Public Rides a Strong Horse with 'Equus'

See Mike Vargo's review of the play. Photo: Michael Henninger.

City Theatre Staging Halley Feiffer's 'A Funny Thing Happened...'

See Rick Handler's review of the dramatic comedy. Photo: Kristi Jan Hoover.

Wiz Khalifa Closes Thrival Music Festival with a Bang

See Christopher Maggio's rundown of the festival's second day. photo: Rick Handler.

Union Standard Shines Downtown

Chef Derek Stevens first restaurant follows the seasons. See Rick Handler's review. Pictured: The Berkshire pork chop.

Pennywise the Clown in Stephen King's 'It'

The move is an adaptation of King's horror novel. See Rick Handler's review.

The 48th Annual A Fair in the Park

See Rick Handler's photo coverage of the event in Mellon Park.

Playhouse Rep Staging 'The Scottsboro Boys'

The play is based on a racial injustice of the '30s that Kander & Ebb turned into a musical. See Mike Vargo's review.

Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Hosts PGH Rewind Party

See Rick Handler's coverage of the event.

Quantum Stages World Premiere of 'Red Hills'

See Mike Vargo's review of the play which is based on the Rwandan genocide. photo: Heather Mull.

Yes, Todd Rundgren, and Carl Palmer Performed a Night of Interesting and Creative Music

See Rick Handler's review of Yestival. Pictured: Steve Howe of Yes.

Earth Wind & Fire and Chic Brought the Funk to PPG Paints Arena

See Rick Handler's review. EWF in a 2009 concert photo.

Synth Rockers Atlas Genius Put On Electrifying Show at the Rex

Christopher Maggio joined in the fun. See his review. The band at Riverside, Austin, Texas in 2013. photo: Nan Palmero.

Kinetic Theater Staging 'The Liar'

Being continually lied to was never so funny. See Mike Vargo's review. photo: Rocky Raco.

Warhol Museum Exhibit Chronicles Warhol's Fascination with Movie Stars

Warhol's love of film stars led to some of his most memorable works. See Mike Vargo's review.

'Baby Driver' a Fast-Paced Crime Drama with Heart

See Rick Handler's review.

The Public Staging 'An Act of God'

See Mike Vargo's review of the humorous God still working on a few anger issues. photo: Michael Henninger.

Dawes Delivers a Top-notch Concert at Three Rivers Arts Festival

See Rick Handler's review and photos.

U2 Delivers Strong Joshua Tree Concert to Pittsburgh

See Rick Handler's concert review. photo: Francois Mulder and Wikipedia.

Dawes Set to Play Three Rivers Arts Festival Friday

Rick Handler previews the concert and speaks with bassist Wylie Gelber.

Hippo Campus Performs at Three Rivers Arts Festival

See Christopher Maggio's concert coverage.

'An American in Paris' a Triumph for CLO

Rick Handler reviews the production set in the 'City of Light.' See his story. photo: Matthew Murphy.

Captain Jack Returns in 'Pirates of the Caribbean, Dead Men Tell No Tales'

See Rick Handler's run-down of his voyage on the Black Pearl. photo: Comingsoon.net and Wikipedia.

Front Porch Theatricals Hops on the Bus with 'Violet'

Mike Vargo goes deep in his review of the production. photo: Martha Dollar Smith.

The xx Jumpstart the Outdoor Concert Season

See Christopher Maggio's review. photo: Tuomas Vitikainen.

People's Climate March

Hundreds marched through Oakland against climate change and for Mother Earth. See Rick Handler's photojournalism piece.

Doors' Guitarist Robby Krieger Shines in Palace Concert

See Rick Handler's review. Krieger in London in 2007. photo: Caroline Bonarde Ucci.

Brick N' Mortar a Solid Restaurant

Head Chef Jon Tryc (L.) and owner Ricci Minella (R.) have made the leap from food truck to restaurant. Christopher Maggio details the story.

Quantum Theatre Stages John Hodge's 'Collaborators'

Martin Giles plays Joseph Stalin, playwright, in this work of fictionalized history. See Mike Vargo's review. photo: Heather Mull.

North Shore Nightlife on the Rise

See Chris Maggio's Recon Patrol outing to explore North Shore drinking and dining hotspots. Pictured: Southern Tier Brewing.

South Hills' Crust Café and Pizzeria a Popular Spot

Rick Handler visited the restaurant for some eat-in and take-n-bake pizzas. See his story.

The Braddock Carnegie's 10th Annual Chili Cook-off Another Success

The event featured various types of chili and a nice mix of people. See Rick Handler's story and photo slider.

City Theatre's 'The Guard' Gives Interesting Tour

Mike Vargo goes along for the metaphysical ride. See his review. photo: Kristi Jan Hoover.

Patti Smith Performs Seminal Album 'Horses' Live

Smith gives fans an evening of rock and recollections. See Christopher Maggio's review. photo: Michael Morel and Wikipedia.

'Fifty Shades Darker' is a Romance Action Drama

Find out more about Anastasia and Christian's romantic romps. See Rick Handler's review.

Totopo Serving Mexican Favorites in Mt. Lebanon.

Tacos, tamales, fajitas and more. See Rick Handler's review.

The Public's Staging Shakespeare Comedy 'Twelfth Night'

See Mike Vargo's review of one of Shakespeare's more comedic plays. photo: Michael Henninger.

barebones 'Wrestles' with its Latest Production

Mike Vargo goes to the mat to bring you his review of 'The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity.' photo: Lou Stein.

The Frick Reintroduces its Collection to Pittsburgh

Mike Vargo reviews 'The Frick Collects: From Rubens to Monet' and tells the story behind the art. Pictured: Monet's 'Banks of the Seine at Lavacourt' (1879)

Deerhunter Gives Powerful and Entertaining Performance

Christopher Maggio reviews the band's concert at Mr. Smalls.

Denzel Washington and Viola Davis Star in "Fences"

The August Wilson play hits the big screen. See Rick Handler's review.

CLO Stages an Adaptation of Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol'

Mike Vargo reviews the updated holiday production and gives perspective on the spirit of 'A Christmas Carol' past and present.

Bill Toms and Hard Rain Headline Moondog's Holiday Rock Party

Also on the bill were Norman Nardini and 8th Street Rox. See Rick Handler's story.

The Public Staging 'Between Riverside and Crazy'

Mike Vargo reviews Stephen Adly Guirgis's Pulitzer Prize-winning play. See if he liked it.

'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,' a 'Harry Potter' Prequel

Christopher Maggio follows the hunt for 'Fantastic Beasts' and files a review.

Martin Giles (L) and James FitzGerald (R) star in PICT's 'The Merchant of Venice'

Mike Vargo travels to Venice to see if 'The Merchant' rings up a sale. See his review.

There's Always Something Fun Happening at Belvedere's

Christopher Maggio leads the Recon Patrol into action at one of the 'Ville's most popular bars. See his report from the field.

Rock the Block Squirrel Hill

The Coop Chicken and Waffles food truck on the scene at the festival along with bands, crafts, and brews. See Rick Handler's photo story.

Max's Allegheny Tavern Serves Up Authentic German Food and Drink

Rick Handler traveled to the picturesque restaurant and bar on the North Side and sampled its fare. See his dining story.

Animal Collective Bring Electronic Jam to Mr. Smalls

The group played old and new songs plus an interesting cover. See Christopher Maggio's rundown of the show.

Pittsburgh Public Theater Opens Season with 'The Fantastics'

Will young love triumph over trials and tribulations? See Rick Handler's review.

'The Girl on the Train' Pulls into Theaters

The film adaptation of the best selling book is a suspenseful murder mystery. Chris Maggio takes a seat on 'The Train' and posts his review.

Delicious Pizza at Oakland's Family Owned Shops

Intrepid reporters Christopher Maggio and Rick Handler consumed many slices of pizza to form their culinary analysis. See their pizza eating jaunt.

Metric was a Star Attraction at Thrival

The Toronto synth-rock band gave a forceful performance on the last day of the festival. See Christopher Maggio's review.

Thrival Music Fest Makes Carrie Furnaces a Musical Blast Furnace

Writer Christopher Maggio and photographer Rick Handler give a detailed report of all the opening day action.

Pittsburgh’s Exciting New Entertainment Site

Welcome to Entertainment Central Pittsburgh! photo: Martha Rial

'The Censor' Onstage at Throughline

Will the censor find fault or find love? See Mike Vargo's review of the play. photo: Rick Moore

Photo Exhibit Showcases a Rising Generation of Ugandan Children

Pulitzer Prize-winning Photographer Marth Rial's 'In Uganda: A School to Call Home' is featured at 937 Liberty Gallery.

'Sully' Recreates Fateful Day

The film depicts the plane's landing on the Hudson River and subsequent investigation into it. Chris Maggio bought a ticket for the trip. See his review.

Brian Wilson and Band Perform 'Pet Sounds'

It was a night of rock nirvana as Wilson performed one of the top albums in all of music. See Rick Handler's review.

Pittsburgh Playwrights Returns 'Seven Guitars' to the Hill

August Wilson's noted play is being staged at his childhood home. See Rick Handler's review.

RANT Showcases Hot Pittsburgh Rockers

Over 200 local rock bands played this year's fest. See Chris Maggio's coverage from Javo Studios.

Quantum Theatre Stages ‘Peribáñez’ in Mellon Park's Rose Garden

Rick Handler went park side to see Quantum's latest offering. Read his review of the play.

Bad Guys Put to Work for the Good Ol' U.S.A. in 'Suicide Squad'

See EC writer and comic book aficionado Chris Maggio's review of the D.C. Comics' film.

Step Into The Frick for Some 'Killer Heels'

See Christopher Maggio's exhibit coverage. Christian Louboutin. “Printz,” Spring/Summer 2013. Courtesy of Christian Louboutin. Photo: Jay Zukerkorn.

Stage 62 Stages Powerful 'Jesus Christ Superstar'

Rick Handler reviews Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's first hit play.

Murder For Girls, A Talented and Powerful Punk Rock Band

See Chris Maggios two part story that chronicles the band from rehearsal to festival performances.

'Come Back, Little Sheba' an Intense '50s Drama'

The struggle to achieve dreams and the setbacks along the way provide the thematic elements of the Summer Company's production. See Mike Vargo's Review.

A Bicentennial Birthday Bash for Pittsburgh

A beautiful cake of Pittsburgh was one of the many fun ingredients for a once every 200 years party at the Senator John Heinz History Center. See Rick Handler's event coverage.

The CLO brings 'Chicago' to Pittsburgh

John O'Hurley and Dylis Croman star in the show's latest touring company production. See Rick Handler's review.

Road Trip to Morgantown

Rick Handler travels to Morgantown to experience Black Bear Burritos and Blue Moose Cafe. See his story.

The EC Recon Patrol Explores Oakmont Nightlife

Patrol leader (and writer) Chris Maggio visits several Oakmont establishments good for the U.S. Open and beyond.

The Public Running Sexy 'Venus in Fur'

The twin themes of power and pleasure are the 'dominant' elements of the play. See Mike Vargo's review.

Michael Franti and Spearhead Open Arts Fest

The crowd was large and lively for the concert. See Rick Handler's coverage.

Kate Beckinsale Stars in 'Love & Friendship'

A wily woman in pre-Victorian England connives to get her needs and desires well sated. See if Critic Ted Hoover fell under her charms.

Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe Play '70s Detectives

Gosling and Crowe team up to solve a series of murders. See if critic Ted Hoover thinks it was a good trip back in time.

George Clooney Performs His 'Money Monster' Dance

Clooney stars with friend Julia Roberts in the new film directed by Jodie Foster. See Ted Hoover's review.

Stage 62 Running Sondheim's 'Assassins'

In this play nine presidential assassins gather to discuss and relive their endeavors. See Mike Vargo's review.

PICT Staging 'Two Tales of Terror'

Poe's 'The Tell-Tale Heart' and 'The Fall of the House of Usher' are adapted for this new production. See Mike Vargo's review.

'The Huntsman: Winter's War' Features Big Name Cast

Can Chris Hemsworth, Jessica Chastain, and Charlize Theron propel 'Huntsman' to box office success. See Ted Hoover's review.

Watch the Pens Game and Catch Some Rays

Rick Handler was curious to see all the action outside the Consol with the big screen. See his recon report.

'The Illusionists' Amaze and Entertain

You'll ask yourself how'd they do that many times during the show. See Rick Handler's review. photo: Joan Marcus.

CMU's 'The Plague in Venice:' a Dystopian Fantasy.

Mike Vargo gives his take on this unusual play done in the commedia dell’arte tradition. photo:Louis Stein.

Can 'The Master Builder' Construct a Foundation Based Upon Dreams and Deceit?

See Mike Vargo's review of Quantum Theatre's latest production. photo: John Altdorfer.

Helen Mirren Stars in the Thriller 'Eye in the Sky'

Ted Hoover, our 'eye in the movie theater' gives us his take on the new film.

Superhero Civil War

Do good guys wear black or blue and red? See Ted Hoover's take on 'Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.' Photo: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures/ TM & © DC Comics.

'Disgraced' Stirs the American Melting Pot

Mike Vargo reviews Pittsburgh Public Theater's production of the Pulitzer Prize-winning play about religion and idenity in contemporary American life.

Fans 'Join Together' With The Who

The Who rocked the Consol, highlighting fifty years of top hits. See Rick Handler's concert coverage. photo: The Who at the Ahoy Rotterdam in 2007, by Joep Vullings

Disney's 'Zootopia' Playing for Laughs

An interesting look at animal and human behavior. Read Ted Hoover's review.

'The Lady in the Van' Chronicles English Eccentric

Reviewer Ted Hoover loves British culture, see his take on this intriguing film which stars Maggie Smith.

Frick Museum Exhibits Jacques Henri Lartigue Photos

See Mike Vargo's review of The Frick's 'Fast Cars and Femmes Fatales' show. Lartigue's brother Maurice floating in high style. photo: French Ministry of Culture.

'Hail Cesar!' Features an All-Star Cast

Ted Hoover loves Hollywood's glory days of the 1950's, see if this period piece lived up to his ideals.

'Some Brighter Distance' Delivers Food for Thought

Mike Vargo says City Theatre's latest production is an examination of morality juxtaposed against national interests. See his review of the play. photo: Kristi Jan Hoover.

'The Fifth Wave' Hits Theaters

Four Waves Have Struck Humanity, now the Fifth Wave is striking. See Ted Hoover's critique.

Gene's Place: A Friendly Bar in Oakland for Pints, Pitchers and Trivia

Christopher Maggio leads the EC Recon Patrol in a Wednesday night excursion to Gene's to see their popular trivia night in action. View his field report.

'Carol' Paints a Beautiful Canvas on the Screen

Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara star in this drama that reflects 1950's style and moral attitudes. See Ted Hoover's take.

Making Bank by Betting Against Them

The 2008 financial crisis provides the scenario for a true story of how contrarian traders scored big. See Ted Hoover's review.

Chinatown Inn Carries on in Changing Downtown Landscape

Rick Handler visits Chinatown Inn and recreates a meal from a childhood family outing.

An Awakening

Ted Hoover uses his lightsaber pen to craft a fine examination of the latest in the 'Star Wars' saga, 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens.'

PBT Continues Its Christmas Tradition

Martha Rial delivers a captivating look at Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre's production of 'The Nutcracker.'

First Night Pittsburgh 2016

Two fireworks displays and a lighted ball that rises are a few of the highlights in this year's bash. See Mike Vargo's preview of all the fun and entertainment.

A Different Kind of 'Oliver Twist' You Say

Mike Vargo reviews PICT's adaption of the Dickens classic. Pictured: Fagin and his gang working on their card game, by Suellen Fitzsimmons.

'Spotlight' Chronicles 'The Boston Globe's' Expose on the Catholic Diocese of Boston

See what film critic Ted Hoover thinks of this investigative journalism movie based on real-life events. Photo: Kerry Hayes and Open Road Films.

The Choclate Bar at the Benedum, A Tantalizing Event

Rick Handler took notes, snapped photos, and every so often ate something chocolaty. See his coverage of the highlights. Pictured: Cioppino restaurant's offerings by pastry chef Meghann Walsh and asst. GM Dominick Mastrogiacoma

The Public Puts On a Comedy,'A Servant To Two Masters'

Read Mike Vargo's review of the play. Pictured: Smeraldina (Daina Michelle Griffth) who takes a hot fancy to Truffaldino (Jimmy Kieffer).

'Spectre'Rises

Ted Hoover goes for a ride in the latest James Bond flick.

India in Focus Artists' Exhibit at Wood Street Galleries

Mike Vargo reviewed the exhibits of Hetain Patel and Nandini Valli Muthiah and reports back. Photo:Katie Krulock.

'Bridge of Spies,' An Interesting Look at a Cold War Incident

1960 photo from the Soviet archives of "American spy pilot F. G. Powers" who was shot down over the Soviet Union. Read Ted Hoover's take on the film.

'The Night Alive' Explores the Terrors in Daily Life

Mike Vargo goes along for the wild ride of City Theatre's latest production. photo: Kristi Jan Hoover.

Il Pizzaiolo Market Square: A Classy, Yet Comfortable Italian Restaurant

Calamari, cannoli, wood-fired pizza, and more. Christopher Maggio reports on the menu highlights from his recent dining excursion there.

CMOA Exhibits Its Edward Hopper Collection

A small, but powerful exhibition, Mike Vargo reports. Read about his journey through the light and shadows of Hopper's art. Pictured: 'Cape Cod Afternoon.'

Quantum Swings Further Out for "The Winter's Tale'

See if Mike Vargo had a good trip or bad trip at the performance. Photo: Heather Mull.

'Best of Enemies,' An Aptly Titled Film

Ted Hoover examines the beginnings of a new age of political journalism. (Photo by ABC Photo Archives/ABC via Getty Images) William Buckley, Gore Vidal.

Another Successful Pittsburgh Irish Festival

Rick Handler sends back a dispatch from this year's festival. Pictured: We Banjo 3 and performers from other groups jamming together.

Unblurred Gallery Crawl, Fun on Penn

Photojournalist Martha Rial explores the First Friday event and gives us a look at her discoveries. Pictured: Artist Kendal Nasiadka and her self-portrait photographed by Rial.

East End Brewery, A Nice Find

Heather McCracken gives the rundown on East End's Brew Pub. Pictured: Big Hop Harvest Ale garnished with two fresh hop buds.

'American Ultra' Reaches New High

The convenience store clerk has often times been a focal point of movie culture. Ted Hoover reports on the latest incarnation.

The Pittsburgh Comedy Festival Features National and Local Talent

Todd Glass, host of 'The Todd Glass Show' podcast, is one of this year's headliners. Heather McCracken previews the festival.

BikeFest Time in the 'Burgh

Avid cyclist Heather McCraken takes readers for a spin through the highlights.

Braddock's Marches to the Beat of a New Seasonal Menu

The Renaissance Pittsburgh is additionally offering a seasonal menu highlighting local produce and culture, many with a French twist, reports Heather McCracken. Pictured: peach cobbler 'PIE'rogi, with cinnamon ice cream, mascarpone whipped cream, and warm bourbon caramel drizzle.

'Pixels' Combines Alien Invasion and Arcade Games

Get the lowdown from Ted Hoover on whether Adam Sandler, Josh Gad, and Kevin James can save the Earth.

Open Streets Pittsburgh Opens Up Penn

Bikers, walkers, runners, and rollerbladers all frolicked on Penn Avenue including David Dobson with Cameron, 5. See Heather McCracken's coverage.

The Gateway Clipper Restores Sunday Brunch

Heather McCracken goes rollin' on the river to enjoy the sights, sounds, and buffet line.

'Mr. Holmes' Works on a Tough New Mystery

Ted Hoover uses his powers of logic and deduction to file a report on the film.

Vintage Racers Roar Through Schenley Park Once Again

See Rick Handler's race day coverage of the 2015 Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix.

Great Beers and Fun Times at Voodoo Homestead

A spell was cast on Christopher Maggio during a recent Voodoo visit that also happened to be a canine fundraiser night.

'Sharon's Grave' Sprouts Family Conflict and Romance

Rick Handler gives you a look at PICT Classic Theatre's latest production. photo: Suellen Fitzsimmons.

The Frick Exhibits Pittsburgh and British Natural and Industrial Landscape Art

See Heather McCracken's review of the show. Jean-Emile Laboureur (French, 1877–1943), "The Locomotive Depot" (1905). Watercolor, 8 1/2 x 8 3/4 in. Collection of Sheryl and Bruce Wolf. Pittsburgh.

Shelf Life String Band plays Deutschtown Music Fest

Chris Maggio chronicles his fun romp through the festival.

Savage Comedy

'Brewed' at No Name Players takes a walk on the dark side. photo: No Name Players

The Rolling Stones Play Heinz Field

See Rick Handler's concert review. photo: Rolling Stones 2006 concert in Milan courtesy of Severino.

BRGR Serves Up Tasty Burgers

The Button Buster, featuring braised beef short ribs and crispy onion rings was one of several sampled by Heather McCracken.

Nightclub Heaven Reappears

Dancers and partiers had fun going back in time for a Heaven flashback. See Rick Handler's event coverage.

Donora Shines in Early Evening Concert

Heather McCracken hits the Three Rivers Arts fest for a poppy Donora performance. See her take on the show. photo: Heather McCracken.

Seattle's Hey Marseilles Plays Arts Fest

Heather McCracken caught the band as the sun was setting. Get her rundown on the show. Photo: Heather McCracken

Alvvays in Concert at Three Rivers Arts Festival

Catch Christopher Maggio's review on the indie pop band's show. photo: Christopher Maggio.

Would You Buy a New Play from This Man?

Tom Lenk tenders a nice offer in 'Buyer & Cellar' at The Public. photo: Pittsburgh Public Theater

Exploring the Three Rivers Arts Festival

Writer Christopher Maggio takes the Festival path less traveled. Laura Rosner and Devin Angiolieri view pen and ink drawings by Eli Helman.

Jenny Lewis Draws Big Crowd for Three Rivers Arts Fest Concert

See Rick Handler's review of the opening night concert in Point State Park. photo: Rick Handler.

Renaissance Hotel to Recreate Heaven

The original Heaven nightclub featured a 1000 foot dance floor. Photo; Rick Stern

One Gal, One Guy, and One Extremely Extreme Weekend

In City Theatre's new comedy "Midsummer," a chance hookup leads to adventures most bizarre. (Photo: Kristi Jan Hoover)

Should You Hurry to Catch “Hot Pursuit?”

Critic Ted Hoover is in a quandary, will the plot of "Hot Pursuit" dampen his affection for Reeese Witherspoon.

Pittsburgh Fringe Festival

Adventurous and exploratory theatrical works is the festival's focus. Heather McCracken previews the events including "Hedwig and the Angry Inch" (shown above).

Can the Avengers Save the World From Ultron?

Critic Ted Hoover uses his super power—movie plot detection—to discern if "The Avengers" has one.

Diner Revival in Wilkinsburg

Home fries, eggs, toast, and grits. Heather McCracken details the old-school Nancy's East End Diner whose new owners have added some modern twists. photo: Heather McCracken.

Earth Day Pittsburgh 2015

Pop singer Chris Jamison of Ross Township rocks the Maroon 5 hit "Sunday Morning" at Mellon Square.

Pittsburgh Craft Beer Week

Heather McCracken samples the offerings for Craft Beer Week and serves up some tasty treats.

Pittsburgh’s Earth Day Celebration

Heather McCracken scouts out interesting Earth Day Happenings. Photo of Mother Earth created by photographer Laura Petrilla.