By Kayla Zastrow
Barbaro
FRIDAY 1/20 | GRAND THEATER, WAUSAU
Barbaro’s musical vision explores their collective life experiences through intricate instrumentation, creatively bending traditional music into a style all their own. The Minneapolis-Winona based rising stars have created their eclectic sound through original songwriting craft, with inspiration derived from bluegrass, jazz and chamber music. Their new album, Dressed in Roses, released January 2020, “Stands as a true testament to their musical identity and the sound that has launched one of the Midwest’s most in-demand acoustic acts.” 7:30 pm. $10 general admission in advance. Details at grandtheater.org.
Rock Infused Orchestra
SATURDAY 1/21 | WAUSAU EAST HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM, WAUSAU
This event presented by the Wausau Conservatory of Music brings over 180 string orchestra students in grades 6-12 from the Wausau Area together for a day of learning through rock music. By taking on some of the greatest rock and pop classics, students will learn instrument technique, ensemble playing and music skill. After their day of rehearsals and sectional classes, the Rock Infused Orchestra will then present a free concert that is open to the public! Show starts at 3 pm. Free. Details at wausauconservatory.org.
Wisconsin Singers: Something’s Coming!
SATURDAY 1/21 | GRAND THEATER, WAUSAU
UW-Madison’s premier Broadway-caliber touring production, Wisconsin Singers, takes the stage for its 55th season with Something’s Coming! This show encourages audiences of all ages to find a reason to dance, discover something they love, and hold on to what they believe. Wisconsin Singers ignites audiences with captivating vocals, stunning choreography, live band, and electric Badger spirit all on one stage. Enjoy more than 40 hit songs from sensational pop artists, award-winning musicals, and movie soundtracks that span the last five decades in this dynamic theatrical revue of great music and boundless energy. Proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Club of the Wausau area. Starts at 7 pm. $19. Details at grandtheater.org.
The Glam Band
SATURDAY 1/21 | NORTH STAR MOHICAN CASINO RESORT, BOWLER.
Get taken back in time to the 1980s with the Glam Band. Back in 2007, this group of friends were sitting at a bar talking about how cool 80s rock was. This conversation eventually led to an inaugural performance. The crowd’s reaction was so positive that the Glam Band was formed! These six guys will bring you back to your favorite decade (whether you like to admit it or not)! Donning an over the top stage show, makeup and costumes that will either make you smile or cringe, it’s their goal to transport you back to the decade of decadence. Anyone with an appreciation of 80s rock will love this group and their energetic interaction with the crowd. For ages 21+. Starts at 8 pm. $15 general admission. Details at northstarcasinoresort.com.
Evercon
FRI.-SUN. 1/20-22 | CENTRAL WISCONSIN CONVENTION & EXPO CENTER, ROTHSCHILD
This stellar local gaming event was created back in 2000 by the D.C. Everest Gaming Club and held for years at the school. It has since grown to a large convention with over one thousand attendees. You’ll find all things geek: role-playing games, collectible card games, video games and more. Tons of exhibitors and special guest artists and writers round out Evercon’s weekend full of fantasy fun. Fri. 11 am-10 pm, Sat. 9 am-10 pm and Sun. 9 am-5 pm. $50 for the full weekend, $30 Friday only, $40 Saturday only or $25 Sunday only for adults; $25 full weekend or $10 single day pass for kids; free ages 5 and under. Details at Evercon.org.
Arctic Run Model Railroad Show & Sale
SAT.-SUN. 1/21-22 | HOLIDAY INN CONVENTION CENTER HOTEL, STEVENS POINT
After a two-year absence, the Central Wisconsin Railroaders are bringing back the annual Arctic Run Model Railroad Show! It’s an event that all ages can enjoy. Children will be fascinated by the movement of the trains and the sounds of model locomotives. They can also play with Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends from Chuggington Station. Adults will enjoy the intricate details that are featured on the model railroads on display. And everyone will appreciate the multifaceted nature of the “The World’s Greatest Hobby” when viewing the model railroads on display. Vendors will be available with the latest model railroading equipment offered by the leading model railroad equipment manufacturers. Other vendors will be on hand with railroad clothing, books, memorabilia, model railroad equipment. Sat. 9 am-5 pm; Sun. 10 am-3 pm. $4 adults, $2 children ages 12-17, free for ages 11 and under. Details call 715-340-0265.
