Three Dog Night in Concert at CHMH; C.S. Lewis’ ‘The Screwtape Letters’ at the Byham (Sat., 2/16/19)

1) Rock ‘n’ roll promotes good health. This has been scientifically proven by the remarkable number of bands from the 1960s-70s that are still active and touring, many of them with multiple original or longtime members. Among these bands, one of the most noteworthy is Three Dog Night, because the type of rock performed by Three Dog Night is particularly conducive to wellness: It’s feel-good rock. After all, the group’s de facto anthem is the song called “Joy to the World.” Other top hits, such as “Shambala” (above), also combine happiness-oriented lyrics with beats that are decidedly upbeat. Even spooky numbers like “Mama Told Me Not to Come” are delivered in a festive fashion. In short, these guys never met a song they couldn’t have fun with, and you can see for yourself when Three Dog Night visits the Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall. Special guest is Charlie Farren (of Joe Perry Project and Farrenheit Fame). 8 p.m. 510 E. 10th Ave., Munhall. (MV)

2) C.S. Lewis, author of The Chronicles of Narnia, wrote another iconic fantasy that’s quite different. Pittsburghers can see a stage adaptation of The Screwtape Letters, his adult-themed, dark-comic satire. Screwtape is a senior demon in the bureaucracy of Hell. He has a nephew named Wormwood, who’s trying to corrupt a young man in London and thereby send the man’s soul to the Bad Place. But despite Uncle Screwtape’s expert advice, Wormwood keeps screwing it up, as he can’t figure out how to outfox the forces of good. Lewis dedicated The Screwtape Letters to his close friend J.R.R. Tolkein. Written and set during the Blitz in World War II, when Nazi aircraft were trying to bomb the British into submission, the story had an allegorical meaning at the time. It’s still popular for its keen insights into human nature, and for delivering a Christian-inspired moral message in an edgy rather than preachy form. The stage version currently touring the U.S. is by Jeffrey Fiske and Max McLean. Critics have called it a memorable Screwtape. 4 p.m. Byham Theater, 101 6th St., Cultural District.

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