Four Chord Music Festival: After more than a decade, the Four Chord Music Festival will finally catch its white whale this weekend. The event, an annual celebration of pop-punk music from the ’90s to the present, has grown from an evening at a nightclub to a two-day outdoor festival — and no band better exemplifies its sound and style than Blink-182. Festival organizers have been trying to book the band for years, and came close once, announcing Blink-182 as the headliners for the 2020 edition — which, of course, was cancelled due to COVID. Perhaps it was a blessing in disguise; the version of the band that was touring at that time wasn’t the group’s classic lineup, but the version that will play at EQT Park on Saturday night is. The lineup is loaded throughout the weekend, also featuring AFI, Jimmy Eat World, Bowling for Soup, Jawbreaker, Alkaline Trio and dozens more.
“A Beautiful Noise”: We really should divide so-called “jukebox musicals” into two categories: Those that tell a new story with old songs, and those that play like on-stage biopics of famous artists. While the former category is good material for Broadway fun, the latter can convey a musician’s life story and greatest hits in an affecting package. Such is the case with “A Beautiful Noise,” a sweeping and surprisingly personal musical treatment of the life of Neil Diamond. Yes, you’ll hear “Sweet Caroline” and “Cracklin’ Rosie,” but you’ll also get a personal look at an artist who was at one time the biggest star in music. “American Idol” winner Nick Fradiani stars as Diamond throughout his touring career, while Tony nominee and original “Into the Woods” star Robert Westenberg plays Diamond later in life; both are excellent and convincing. “A Beautiful Noise” continues at the Benedum Center through Sunday.
Pleasant Times with “Paddington”: There was a time when “Paddington 2,” the sequel about the beloved yet occasionally bumbling bear, was the best-reviewed film of all time — at least on Rotten Tomatoes. While some very grumpy individuals have since dissented, the general point stands: Just about everyone loves this bear. This week, the first “Paddington” film plays at Row House Cinemas, and two special screenings are planned. On Saturday, a screening designed for parents with young children (and anyone else who prefers a sensory-friendly environment) is planned. On Sunday, you can enjoy Paddington’s favorite meal — marmalade sandwiches — as you follow his adventures.
Joe Hisaishi Conducts the PSO: Joe Hisaishi — award-winning composer, musical director, conductor and pianist — is taking the stage to conduct the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. He’s best known for creating evocative and emotionally rich soundscapes; just watch the Oscar-winning “The Boy and the Heron.” Along with the Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh, Hisaishi and the PSO will present new music from “The End of the World,” his album inspired by “the people in the USA.” — Kahmeela Adams-Friedson
Clemente Bridge Fest: We’re about to kick off a weeklong celebration of Roberto Clemente, which will include Monday’s annual Roberto Clemente Day celebration across Major League Baseball (the Pirates host the Chicago Cubs on Monday in the designated Clemente game) and multiple opportunities to see the new documentary “Clemente” on the big screen, including at the Harris and Lindsay theaters. Saturday afternoon, a signature celebration of the Hall of Famer will take place on the bridge that bears his name, as the Roberto Clemente Museum hosts Bridgefest 2025. Expect music, guest appearances, family activities, local food and drink and more.
Ashley Gavin: “Sometimes I feel a little bit more like a guy, socially,” comedian Ashley Gavin said in a Comedy Central performance. “Women will break up with their friends … You’ve never heard a man be like, ‘With Dave, I just give and I give and I give.’” Gavin, a viral sensation for her acerbic crowd work, will appear at the Pittsburgh Improv for five shows this Thursday through Saturday.
Steelers Home Opener: Heading to Acrisure Stadium for the Pittsburgh Steelers home opener? Stop by the Hall of Honor, where a new exhibit celebrates the 20th anniversary of the team’s 2005 Super Bowl victory. And, of course, get to the North Shore early: A sellout crowd is expected to see the 1-0 Steelers host the 0-1 Seattle Seahawks. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. Sunday.
Looking for more things to do? Check out our complete list of events in Pittsburgh for today, tomorrow and the weeks ahead.
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‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.pittsburghmagazine.com ’
