► Rock O’Clock
April 26-28, Downtown Norman
In a word: music. In two words: more music. The block-colonizing, crowd-tantalizing, expense-neutralizing (it’s free), silence-pulverizing Norman Music Festival first roared onto Main Street in 2008, so this year it’s going to 11. The three-day cavalcade of rock is marking the beginning of its second decade in Downtown Norman April 26-28 by welcoming Parquet Courts, Tune-Yards, Japanese Breakfast, Helen Kelter Skelter, Cherry Death … dozens and dozens of bands are ready to provide a plenitude of audio awesomeness, and all you have to do is enjoy.
► Curtain Call
April 13-15, OKC Civic Center
The OKC Ballet is closing its season with a trio of shorter staged works for a variety of exquisite dance – the namesake piece, “Petite Mort,” is far more fascinating than morbid thanks to Jiri Kylian’s choreography and a Mozart score. It’s followed by the Oklahoma premiere of “Petal,” and a world premiere of a 10th anniversary piece constructed by the Ballet’s own Robert Mills … with a name that hasn’t yet been revealed.
► Open Wide
April 10, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
If you’re hungry for an excellent way to help others, the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma’s Chef’s Feast event is always a sweet, savory, lifesaving experience. Premier chefs from top local restaurants contribute mouthwatering dishes for guests to sample while listening to live music and browsing auction items, with proceeds aiding the RFBO’s Food for Kids program. You won’t find a more delicious idea.
► Celebration Shade
April 13, OKC Farmer’s Market
Having the blues will be a source of joy this month, as the appetizing, entertaining Allied Arts fundraiser Artini returns for its 15th year. “A Blue Party” is the theme, so dress to turn heads in your favorite shade of cerulean or azure and enjoy the offerings of a dozen local restaurants competing to serve the best specialty martini and appetizer. And with more than 100 artworks up for auction, there’s a good chance you’ll be tickled pink about attending.
► True Legends
April 13-14, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Old and new, past and present, tradition and innovation – there are many elements to the Western Heritage Awards, but the common thread is appreciation for those who work to elevate the culture of the American West. The 2018 ceremony will add a new award while recognizing familiar names such as Walter Vail and Lynn Anderson, and will be hosted by Sam Elliott and Katharine Ross.
