Prime Stage Opens ‘1984’ at New Hazlett; The Who’s ‘Tommy’ Played Live at Rex (Fri., 3/3/17)

1) George Orwell’s novel 1984 has been at or near the top of the Amazon best-seller list, and getting a copy from your local library may involve a wait. Act promptly to reserve tickets for the stage adaption of 1984, which is being performed by Prime Stage Theatre. Like the book, the play is set in a land where the ruling party’s mind-control tricks include turning things backwards with slogans like “War is peace” and “Freedom is slavery.” To say much more about it would be to say nothing. The story is the opposite of alternative facts; it is true fiction. You are watching Big Brother. You are not confused. 8 p.m. Performances through March 12. At the New Hazlett, 6 Allegheny Square East, North Side.

2) Nearly everyone has heard the song about “the deaf, dumb, and blind kid who sure plays a mean pinball”? Tommy the multi-Tony-winning rock musical, derived from the 1969 concept album by The Who, also delivers a lot of high-energy that is experienced best live. Well you can see it live tonight at South Side’s Rex Theater. The event is produced by DVE Rocks for Children’s. 8 p.m. 1602 E. Carson St.

3) Tonight at the PPG Paints Arena there’s a showdown between our Pens. and the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Pens are trying to peck their way into a nice roost in the playoff picture, so, let’s hope they notch another win in that direction today. 7 p.m. 1001 Fifth Ave., Uptown.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSQwj3s8Y4s

4) Joe Bonamassa is a blues rock guitar virtuoso, whose soaring lead guitar riffs are heavily influenced by British players, including Eric Clapton, John Mayall, and Jeff Beck. He opened for B.B. King when he was all of 12 years old.  Bonamassa’s albums have occupied the number one spot on the Billboard Blues Chart 11 times. Many people will remember Bonamassa from his PBS concert specials. Live at the Greek Theater is his latest release. Pittsburgh has many great guitarists who enjoy seeing other talented players, which is evidenced by the brisk ticket sales for these shows. There will be a second show on Friday, March 3. Both shows start at 8 p.m. Benedum Center, 237 7th St., Cultural District.

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