WORCESTER—It’s Friday the 13th, and things are getting a little strange around here. There are killer looks in the Canal District, a trip to the dark side of the moon and an invitation to dance like it’s 1955. And that’s just the beginning.
Electric Haze celebrates the notoriously unlucky date with a horror-themed drag show, while The Maine rocks The Palladium and the “Turn It Down” All-Stars give Pink Floyd an acoustic makeover for charity. A Shrewsbury sock hop brings back poodle skirts and saddle shoes, and the Museum of Worcester celebrates 75 years of Notre Dame Academy.
Here are five picks for the weekend:
- The Maine event: Arizona rockers The Maine are bringing nearly two decades of music, a fiercely loyal fanbase and plenty of energy to The Palladium on Saturday, Nov. 14. Fresh off the release of their 10th studio album, Joy Next Door, the five-piece band is hitting the road again with its Tour Next Door, following some of the biggest headlining shows of its career. Known for blending alternative rock, pop-punk and infectious melodies, The Maine has racked up more than a billion global streams, five albums on the Billboard 200 and an alternative radio hit with “Loved You A Little.” The band has built its following largely on its own terms, maintaining a strong connection with fans since forming in 2007. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. at The Palladium in Worcester.
- A little Italian support, 1950s style: Surely many wonder how they can possibly support the Italians of Worcester County more. Apparently, all it takes is a poodle skirt, a pair of saddle shoes and a willingness to do “The Twist.” The Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America, Worcester Lodge #168, is turning back the clock with its Happy Days 1950s Sock Hop on Friday, Nov. 13. Expect old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll, dancing, snacks and a Twist dance contest that might reveal just how much those knees have aged since the Eisenhower administration. Fifties attire is encouraged, so dust off that leather jacket or dig out your best retro outfit. The festivities run from 7-10 p.m. at the Italian American Victory Athletic Club (IVAC) on Dewey Road in Shrewsbury. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. Call 774-262-0696 for more information.
- Friday the 13th gets a drag makeover: Forget Jason Voorhees. The real killer looks will be at Electric Haze on Friday, Nov. 13, when the Canal District venue hosts a horror-inspired drag show promising glamour, gore and plenty of campy chaos. Hosted by the fierce and fabulous Harley Queen, the evening brings together spooky theatrics, over-the-top performances and enough attitude to frighten the faint of heart. Whether you’re a horror fan, a drag enthusiast or just looking for something a little different on an already unlucky date, this show should fit the bill. Doors open at 7 p.m. at Electric Haze, 26 Millbury St., Worcester. Free street parking is available.
- Rebel girls, 75 years of history: Girl power is nothing new at Notre Dame Academy, which has been educating young women in Worcester since 1951. Now, the school’s 75-year legacy is getting the museum treatment with “Rebel Spirit: 75 Years of Notre Dame Academy,” a new exhibit opening Friday, Nov. 13, at the Museum of Worcester. A special ribbon-cutting celebration will mark the unveiling in the museum’s Rockwell Gallery, highlighting the history, traditions and sisterhood of the independent Catholic school founded by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. From its beginnings on Salisbury Street to generations of graduates who have carried its legacy forward, the exhibit celebrates a Worcester institution that has spent three-quarters of a century helping young women find their voices.
- Wish you were here? Then turn it down: Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon is getting an unplugged makeover when the “Turn It Down” All-Stars return to Worcester’s JMAC BrickBox Theater for their fifth annual benefit concert. This year’s featured artist is Mowesby, aka Matt Sowersby, recently named Best Up & Comer at the Worcester Music Awards, who will help the ensemble reimagine the legendary 1973 album using acoustic instruments. The evening will also feature other Pink Floyd favorites, with acclaimed guitarist Carlos Odria and his band Rioflow opening the show. All proceeds benefit Pernet Family Health Service, making this a chance to enjoy some classic rock while supporting a local nonprofit. The concert takes place at the Jean McDonough Arts Center, 20 Franklin St.
For more events, visit the Discover Central Massachusetts events calendar.
Have an event, news tip, idea for a feature, information, joke, favorite recipe or anything else you’d like to tell us about? You should. Contact carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org
