By Devon Welsh
Ka Lia Universe
Friday, 2/9 | Grand Theater, Wausau
Ka Lia Universe is a St. Paul musician. A daughter of Laotian Hmong immigrants, her music blends pop, hip-hop and R&B styles in service of a culturally hybrid sound. The part you may have never heard before is the blend of Hmong and English lyrics that she refers to as “Hmonglish”. All of Ka Lia Universe’s most popular songs move back and forth between the two languages, a hybrid creation that speaks to the Hmong-American community largely concentrated in Minnesota and Wisconsin. It might not be what you’re used to, but make no mistake: this is original Midwestern music. Opening the show will be the 14-member Hmong dance troupe Seev Yuj Yees, made up of members from across Wisconsin. Best of all, it’s completely free! This show was originally scheduled in January but was moved due to a snowstorm. 7:30 pm. Free. More info at grandtheater.org
14th Annual Central Wisconsin Sports Show
Fri-Sun, 2/9-11 | Central Wisconsin Convention & Expo Center
If you’re interested in hunting, fishing, firearms, boating, archery, taxidermy… the Central Wisconsin Sports Show is where you want to be. This year’s event features dozens of exhibitors as well as a host of seminars and classes on everything from Whitetail deer hunting strategies to concealed carry to boater safety. There are also a few opportunities for kids – classes on casting, firearm safety and turkey calling, as well as an archery range where they can practice their bow skills. The celebration of the outdoors is an important part of the culture of the area, and the annual Sports Show is the place to learn and acquire everything you need to join in. Friday 3-8 pm, Saturday 9 am-6 pm, Sunday 10 am-4 pm. $8 adults, under 12 free. $2 military discount. More at fishingboatingoutdoor.com
Central Wisconsin Lunar New Year Celebration
Saturday, 2/10 | Boys & Girls Club of the Wausau Area
The lunar new year is celebrated by cultures and nations all over the world on the first new moon of the lunar calendar. For Chinese and other Asian cultures, new year celebrations will be taking place on Feb. 10, marking the beginning of the year of the Dragon. The Boys & Girls Club will be hosting an afternoon event in celebration that is set to feature martial arts demonstrations, dragon mural painting, some lessons in Chinese cuisine, and some performances. Vendors will also be on site selling food and other items. Don’t pass up a chance to celebrate the Lunar New Year. noon-4 pm. $20.
Sunset Point Winery Comedy Show
Friday, 2/9 | Sunset Winery, Stevens Point
Feeling like a trip to Stevens Point? Sunset Point Winery is a pretty cool place to hang out without anything going on — they have those cool hammocks you can sit on, and plenty of wine to try by the glass. But this Friday they’re hosting a comedy night. Check out this group of traveling comedians and get ready to laugh your socks off. 7 pm. $15. See Sunset Winery’s Facebook page for ticket information. (BCK)
