“Motown The Musical” Continues Benedum Run (CPs Sat., 1/3/15)

1) Come celebrate the release of Donora‘s third album, Ha Ha Heart, at Brillobox. (Yes, the album came out in December. But, according to the band’s website, this gives you a chance to learn the words!) The Pittsburgh musicians in this trio are known for their upbeat, poppy sound. Their new single, “Memory,” finds them in a more contemplative move. The group is something of a brother/sister act: Jake Hanner, the oldest, provides drums; sister Casey, vocals and guitar, while mutual friend Jake Churton plays bass. They gained national exposure when MTV series such as Engaged and Underage and Cribs began using their music. They are also signed to Pittsburgh’s Rostrum Records, home of Wiz Khalifa. Kahli Abdu and VHS Safari open. Doors open 9:30 p.m. 4104 Penn Ave., Bloomfield. Rescheduled for Jan. 30.

The Supremes—Krisha Marcano (playing Florence Ballard), Allison Semmes (Diana Ross), and Trisha Jeffrey (Mary Wilson)—from “Motown The Musical” First National Tour. (c) Joan Marcus, 2014

2) With Motown The Musical, The Temptations for word-play are endless. One could say it’s loaded with Miracles, or call it Supreme, or maybe you Heard It Through the Grapevine. The show brings a cast of today’s actors to Heinz Hall to play (and sing) the roles of Smokey Robinson, Diana Ross, and other stars from Detroit’s iconic record label. Based loosely on the autobiography of Motown founder Berry Gordy, the musical received four Tony nominations last year. It includes over 60 songs, from “Dancing in the Street” to the 1970 chart-topper “War”—and though most are done only in short versions, that’s a lotta Motown. 7:30 p.m. Ends tomorrow. 600 Penn Ave., Cultural District.

3) The Steelers are fresh off another win against the Cincy Bengals in which they secured a home field Wildcard Playoff berth against the hated Baltimore Ravens. Kickoff is at 8:15 p.m. Let’s hope the Steelers trounce Baltimore and make their head coach John Harbaugh think about coaching in the college ranks like his brother Jim (former 49ers head coach and new Michigan head coach). 100 Art Rooney Ave., North Shore.

4) The Montreal Canadiens are in town to try and wrestle a win away from our Pens in a 7 p.m. game at Consol Energy Center. We know, however, that our Pens are mighty birds. 1001 Fifth Ave., Uptown.

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