Fun Things to Do in Phoenix and Scottsdale This Month
Due to concerns regarding the coronavirus, before making plans we recommend that you confirm information by contacting the event organizer.
High Note
Summer Concert Series
Aug. 6-27
Chandler Center for the Arts opens its doors for the first time in 15 months with this free, celebratory concert series featuring bands of Motown, classic, rock, blues and modern-day pop. Performances include Kim Weston Jazz Quartet, Aug. 6; “Motown Revue” with Sandra Bassett (pictured), Aug. 13; Big Pete Pearson, Aug. 20; and Marmalade Skies, Aug. 27. Fridays, 7:30 p.m.; doors open at 6:30 p.m. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler, chandlercenter.org, (480) 782-2680.


Hip-Hop History
“Hamilton”
Sept. 8-Oct. 10
Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, rhythm and blues and Broadway, this revolutionary musical features a cast of non-white actors to tell the story of the founding of America in a way that looks very different from conventional textbooks. ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe, asugammage.com, (480) 965-3434.
Feel-Good Musical
The Spitfire Grill
Aug. 13-Sept. 5
Based on the hit 1996 film, this heartwarming and inspirational musical tells a tale of redemption, perseverance and family while celebrating second chances and the lasting impact one person can make in a life. Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria, azbroadway.org, (623) 776-8400.


Gospel Legend
Mavis Staples
Sept. 14
A “staple” of American music since the 1950s, the American rhythm and blues and gospel singer, actress and civil rights activist has collaborated with everyone from Prince and Bob Dylan to Arcade Fire and Hozier. She marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., performed at John F. Kennedy’s inauguration and sang in Barack Obama’s White House. More than half a century into her storied career, she continues to deliver messages about hope and justice. 7:30 p.m., Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale, scottsdaleperformingarts.org, (480) 499-8587.
Down South
Lady A
Sept. 16
Fans will be singing along to “Champagne Night,” “Just a Kiss,” “Need You Now,” “Bartender,” “What If I Never Get Over You,” “Downtown” and other favorites as the hit-making trio’s “What a Song Can Do” tour lands in Phoenix. Carly Pearce, Niko Moon and Tenille Arts are special guests. 7 p.m., Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix, ticketmaster.com, (800) 653-8000.


Calling all Parrotheads
“Escape to Margaritaville”
Sept. 16-19
Featuring the island tunes of Jimmy Buffet, this jukebox musical serves up a slice of paradise with original songs and such beloved classics as “Fins,” “Volcano,” “Cheeseburger in Paradise” and “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere.” Madison Center for the Arts, 5601 N. 16th St., Phoenix, themadison.org, (602) 664-7777.
Treasure Hunt
Junk in the Trunk
Sept. 17-19
All things chippy, rusty, vintage and handmade are in the spotlight as more than 130 vintage curators and artisans share their treasures. Live music and food trucks add to the festivities. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale, junkinthetrunkvintagemarket.com.


Golden Girl
Gymnastic Champs
Sept. 22
Four-time Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles headlines an all-star team of female gymnastics champions that includes Laurie Hernandez, Katelyn Ohashi, Peng Peng Lee, Danusia Francis and Morgan Hurd in a celebration of world-class gymnastics in the “Gold Over America Tour.” Featuring a soundtrack from today’s biggest hit-makers, the high-energy, gymnastics-meets-pop-concert spectacular shares a message of empowerment and togetherness with a showcase of athletic brilliance complemented by each athlete’s inspiring championship journey. 7:30 p.m., Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale, ticketmaster.com, (800) 653-8000.