The Weight Carries a Heavy Musical Load; “Last Five Years” at New Hazlett (Fri., 5/22/15)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjCw3-YTffo

1) The Weight is composed of talented musicians who played with either the seminal Canadian-American rock group The Band or their members’ solo groups. After coming together as a backing band for Ronnie Hawkins and then Bob Dylan, The Band struck out on their own with their debut album “Music From Big Pink” in 1968. The Band generated a powerful catalog of songs including “The Weight,” “Up on Cripple Creek,” and “Life is a Carnival.” The Band broke up in 1976 with a huge farewell concert which included many guest stars including Dylan. Martin Scorsese filmed the concert and would release the documentary The Last Waltz two years later. Members of The Weight have teamed up for a respectful reproduction of some of the top songs in the Canadian-American rock songbook. 8 p.m. Rex Theater, 1602 E. Carson St., South Side.

2) This is the musical that bends time’s arrow and once triggered a lawsuit. The Last Five Years tells the story of a failed marriage from two viewpoints: the husband relates his side in chronological order while the wife presents hers in reverse, from breakup back to first meeting. Writer/composer Jason Robert Brown based the story on his own failed marriage—perhaps too closely, for after the show premiered in 2001, Brown did some rewriting when faced with legal action from his ex. Aside from these quirks, music fans like The Last Five Years for its intricate, unusual songs and melodies. Front Porch Theatricals is producing the show at the New Hazlett Theater 8 p.m. Runs through May 31. 6 Allegheny Square East, North Side.

3) PNC Park is an extra happening place tonight with the Pirates playing the New York Mets plus a Friday Night Block Party which includes live entertainment, food, beer, games, and more. And did we mention beer. It’s also a Free Shirt Friday for the first 20,000 fans. 7:05 p.m. 115 Federal St., North Shore.

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