“Phantom” Appearing Nightly at Benedum; Former My Chemical Romance Guitarist Frank Iero Plays Mr. Smalls (CPs Thurs., 2/26/15)

The touring company of “Phantom of the Opera” has two young phenoms in the lead roles: Chris Mann (The Phantom) recently starred in a PBS concert special showcasing his voice, while Katie Travis (as Christine Daaé) won last year’s prestigious Lotte Lenya Competition for singing AND acting talent.

1) The Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Charles Hart, and Richard Stilgoe continues its Pittsburgh run.  What do Andrew Lloyd Webber and the Dallas Cowboys have in common? Both are pop-culture icons, with histories of glittering success and legions of devoted fans … although it’s been years since either of them won a big one. The Cowboys’ last Super Bowl title was in 1996, while no Lloyd Webber musical has become a major hit since a decade before that. But here’s the difference: Even Pittsburghers can enjoy his 1986 crowd-pleaser about the spooky genius who haunts an opera house. So put on your Lloyd Webber throwback jersey and your white one-eye mask, as this year’s road-show production of The Phantom of the Opera visits Benedum Center. 7:30 p.m. Through Sunday. 237 7th St., Cultural District.

2) Frank Iero’s been keeping busy ever since he and his former bandmates dissolved My Chemical Romance in 2013. The rhythm guitarist has fronted two new bands: Leathermouth and Death Spells. In late 2012, while sick with digestive issues, Iero channeled his pain to create his first solo album, 2014’s Stomachaches. With the exception of drums, he played every instrument on the album and released it under the moniker “frnkiero andthe cellabration.” The album has all of My Chemical Romance’s punk and thrash but without their arena bombast, an equation which makes Mr. Smalls a perfect venue for him and his touring band. They supported Taking Back Sunday and The Used last year; tonight, they headline. The Homeless Gospel Choir, White Wives, and  Modern Chemistry open. 8 p.m. 400 Lincoln Ave., Millvale.

3) Perhaps you’ve seen the line for seating stretched out the door. Nak Won Garden, located next to Giant Eagle’s Market District, is the hottest Korean restaurant in the city right now. It’s also a family affair. Chung-Chu Yi and his sister and her daughter all help to run the establishment. They promise more traditional dishes, but, no worries, they have plenty of kimchi and that Korean BBQ Americans love. Pittsburghers, meanwhile, love Nak Won Garden. As for vegetarians, the menu asks to simply “Lettuce know before ordering.” Gotta love a restaurant with a sense of humor. 5504 Centre Ave., Shadyside.

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