George Benson “Breezes” Into Benedum; Prime Stage Running “The Mousetrap” (CPs Sat., 5/9/15)

1) Young George Benson first began his journey to becoming a professional jazz guitarist and singer by playing his ukulele for money on the streets of Pittsburgh’s bustling Hill District in the 1960s. Under the tutelage of several Pittsburgh jazz pros, Benson started playing the guitar, even recording his first song at the tender age of ten. A graduate of the now closed Schenley High School, Benson formed his own bands, and eventually was hired on to play guitar for the legendary Miles Davis in the mid ’60s. Several solo albums lead Benson to fantastic heights including his 1976 album Breezin’ , which spawned the monster hit “This Masquerade.” The album won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year and was the first jazz album to achieve platinum sales status. As the music industry changed, Benson adopted new sounds into his songs while maintaining his high level of musical craftsmanship. This generated more successful hits including “Give Me the Night” and “Turn Your Love Around.” Let’s welcome George back to the ‘Burgh! 8 p.m. Benedum Center, 719 Liberty Ave., Cultural District.

Christie had an air of mystery even when young.

2) There have been more prestigious writers, but in terms of sheer popularity none come close to Agatha Christie. She is the best-selling author of modern times by far, with total book sales of more than 2 billion. Christie also wrote plays, of which her murder mystery The Mousetrap owns a record that may never be broken. It opened in London’s West End in 1952 and is still running there 63 years and over 25,000 performances later. You cannot see a movie version. Christie, now long deceased, stipulated that no film be made until the initial run closed. 8 p.m. Continues through May 17. You can, however, discover the secrets of The Mousetrap by attending Prime Stage Theatre’s production at the New Hazlett. 6 Allegheny Square East, North Side.

3) Our battlin’ Bucs take on the St. Louis Cardinals again tonight at PNC Park. Stick around for a beautiful display of post-game Zambelli fireworks. It’s also Scratch’n Win Saturday where everyone’s a winner. 7:05 p.m. 115 Federal St., North Shore.

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