Ben Mulwana

Wausau events worth checking out for the week of April 20, 2023

By Kayla Zastrow

Fragile Planet: Earth’s Place in the Universe

Sunday 4/23 | UWSP Allen F. Blocher Planetarium and Arthur J. Pejsa Observatory, Stevens Point

Develop a renewed appreciation for our fragile planet through the lens of astronomy, as Sigourney Weaver guides audiences on an immersive excursion that explores a universe filled with the possibility of life. This planetarium show starts with an astronaut’s view highlighting Earth’s unique regions. The journey then continues to the Moon, Mars, and beyond the Milky Way to search for habitats that might host extraterrestrial life. The show’s theme — that Earth is the only known haven for life, and thus is important to protect — echoes the themes of biodiversity and sustainabilityStarts at 2 pm. Free, but donations are welcomed. Details at uwsp.edu.

Earth Day Extravaganza!

Saturday 4/22 | Monk Botanical Gardens, Wausau

Celebrate Earth Day at one of Wausau’s most beautiful places, Monk Botanical Gardens! They are hosting a family fun challenge to help you celebrate our planet! Complete fun outdoor tasks, upload your photos to social media, tag Monk Botanical Gardens in your posts to win an Earth Day Prize. Starts at 9 am. Free. Details at monkgardens.org.

Cheap Trick

Monday 4/24 | Grand Theater, Wausau

Cheap Trick are an indisputable American institution, beloved around the globe since 1974 for their instantly identifiable, hugely influential brand of pop rock ‘n’ roll. The band members are true pioneers with an unparalleled streak of certifiably classic tunes, from “He’s A Whore,” “California Man” and “Dream Police” to “Surrender” and “I Want You To Want Me.” 2016 saw Cheap Trick’s long-awaited induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The induction honored both the band and the pioneering sound that has earned them total record sales well in excess of 20 million featured appearances and more than 40 international gold and platinum certifications. Cheap Trick closed the 2016 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony with a show-stealing performance that prompted Rolling Stone to rave, “Their smoking three-song set (was) played to perfection, with Zander hitting all the notes he hit at Budokan back in 1978.” Starts at 7:30 pm. Limited tickets remain starting t$69.50. Grandtheater.org.

Ben Mulwana

Tuesday 4/25 | Grand Theater, Wausau

Ben Mulwana is a Ugandan-born and raised artist residing in Kenosha, Wisconsin. With thought-provoking lyrics and a diverse range of musical inspiration, Mulwana’s music has been described as afro-soul rock that takes on a unique storytelling quality. Mulwana began as an acoustic, singer-songwriter act, but has since grown into a four-piece band, dialing up the flavor, depth, and infectious energy of his music. The full band set has been described as energetic and dynamic while bringing a groovy, magnetic presence that immediately captures the attention of his audience. As with all 10×10 Series shows, you’ll be up close, on stage with the band in an intimate, cabaret-style setting. Starts at 8 pm. $10 advance, $15 at the door. Grandtheater.org.

Al Jardine and his Endless Summer Band

Saturday 4/22 | Lake of the Torches, Lac du Flambeau

It’s time for some fun, fun, fun with Beach Boys co-founder Al Jardine and His Endless Summer Band! Jardine played rhythm guitar and sang harmony vocals with the Beach Boys, along with providing lead vocals on the No. 1 hit “Help Me Rhonda.” Let the memories flow with all the songs you’ve loved for years that include “California Girls,” “I Get Around,” “Good Vibrations,” “God Only Knows,” and many, many more. This show continues to receive rave reviews and is not to be missed! For ages 18+. Starts at 7 pm. Tickets start at $25. Details at lakeofthetorches.com.

Beatles Yesterday

Thursday 4/27 | Campanile Center for the Arts, Minocqua

This interactive Beatles experience is one of the nation’s most innovative and unique shows utilizing the works of the Beatles. The band, anchored by brothers Billy, Matthew and Ryan McGuigan, leave the song choices completely in the hands of the audience. This is done through request cards that audience members fill out prior to the show. The cards are collected and two minutes before the show begins and a set list is created based upon the songs chosen by that particular audience. As an added treat, the reasons that the audience members chose those songs make up the narrative of the evening.Starts at 7 pm. $30 adult, $15 student. Details at campanilecenter.org.