Michael Bolton Holidays and Hits with the PSO; Gallery Talks at Warhol (CPs Wed., 12/18/2013)

1) There’s only one week until Christmas—are you still feeling a little Scrooge-like? You’ll be feeling jolly in no time when you combine the smooth voice of Michael Bolton and the exquisite talent of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra into one show aptly titled Michael Bolton Holiday and Hits with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. The superstar balladeer pairs up with the world-renowned symphony at Heinz Hall for an evening of seasonal favorites as well as the hits you’ve come to expect from Bolton any time of year, including “When a Man Loves a Woman” and “How Can We Be Lovers.” The accompaniment of the PSO brings a refined layer to Bolton’s already established repertoire. If you find your heart a little cold this time of year, Bolton can warm it up. Be careful, though: He just might make your heart melt. 7:30 p.m. 600 Penn Ave., Cultural District.

2) Enjoy some creative conversation at the Warhol Museum with Wednesday Gallery Talks in the Fifth Floor Galleries. These half-hour sessions offer eye-opening information into Pittsburgh’s favorite artist. Artist Educator sessions focus on a particular aspect of Andy Warhol’s art, while nephew Donald Warhola offers details of the Warhol family history and his experiences with the eccentric 60’s icon. Both talks allow for visitor participation, so you can add to the conversation, or you can sit back and gain insight into the man who was so much more than “the Campbell’s soup guy.” Artist Educators Talks, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; Donald Warhola Talk, 1 p.m. 117 Sandusky St., North Side.

3) Calling all lasses and lads. Get your Irish fix at Mullaney’s Harp and Fiddle with the Irish Jam Session. Whether you’re a performer or just a fan of Celtic sounds, you’ll feel right at home here. Bring your instrument and join the regulars for some traditional sounds, or simply sit back and relax with a pint of Guinness. Whether you’re performing or spectating, you’ll want to try the traditional Shepherd’s Pie or the Pittsburgh Irish sandwich, a regional twist to the customary banger sandwich (it features pierogies–sold on it yet?). Come early and stay late. Cheers! 8 p.m. 2329 Penn Ave., Strip District.

4) If accordions and fiddles don’t tickle your fancy, maybe some new hip hop will. Up-and-coming rapper Hi-Rez takes the stage at Altar Bar for an energetic performance. When he first started broadcasting his rhymes to YouTube, Rez got scrutiny from some classmates who told him that he’d never make it big. It seems the 19-year-old Florida native is getting the last laugh; he’s quickly gaining new fans all across the country. Influenced by old school rappers like Notorious B.I.G. and Tupac as well as current artists like Eminem and Kanye West, Hi-Rez combines the best of old and new in an explosion of impressive beats and rhymes. With songs like “Applause” and “All I Have,” this kid brings a refreshing twist to the rap table that will leave you wanting seconds. Special guests include Ground Up, Palermo Stone, Kid Burghs, and Kid Logik. 7 p.m. 1620 Penn Ave., Strip District.

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