7 Things to Do in May

1.
Imagine a guy in a dragon onesie cracking deadpan jokes while his sidekick, the “world’s only magic-performing chihuahua”, wonders about his own life choices. Have I got your attention yet? Join Piff the Magic Dragon and Mr. Piffles on a magical journey complete with jaw-dropping illusions and witty comedy that will have you double checking that your watch is still on your wrist.
May 15 | Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall | librarymusichall.com

2.
“I wonder how long it would take for anyone to notice if I just stopped talking.” Art serves as a lifeline for many people in need. “Speak” is the story of a teenage girl who reaches for that lifeline to help navigate her feelings about a traumatic event that shapes her life. Based on the novel of the same name by Laurie Halse Anderson, “Speak” is the story of finding the strength to speak up for oneself.
May 1-10 | New Hazlett Theater | newhazletttheater.org

3.
The Afghan Whigs have spent four decades blending the raw edge of ’90s rock with the soul of the Motown era. Onstage, the band’s signature sharp suits intensify a live experience built on showmanship. “I liked the showiness of R&B,” frontman Greg Dulli says. “I wanted to look different than the audience.” As the band gears up for a 40th-anniversary tour, “the songs take on new meaning. We are but a compilation of our memories. And that I can go reconnect with young me and sing the song that that guy wrote and still feel it…it’s a beautiful experience.”
May 2 | Mr. Smalls Theatre | mrsmalls.com

4.
You won’t want to miss the 10th Annual August Wilson Birthday Block Party, a free celebration of the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright. While every block party promises great food, live music and plenty of activities for the kids, this year’s Birthday Block lineup takes it up a notch thanks to a Mac & Cheese contest, a lip sync battle and a poetry slam. In taking part in a beloved community tradition, you’re also supporting a great cause. A nonprofit education center and historic landmark, August Wilson House is a hub for artists, scholars and residents to celebrate the community’s rich African American heritage.
May 9 | August Wilson House | augustwilsonbirthdaycelebration.com

5.
Where can you find 300 musical acts on 28 stages over two days, all tucked within a walkable .6 miles? At the Millvale Music Festival, of course! Millvale is known for showcasing art as the heart of the community, and this festival is its masterpiece. Between catching your new favorite bands, you can explore visual artists, comedy shows and eat so much food! Wear the stretchy pants.
May 15-16 | Millvale | millvalemusic.org

6.
Known to millions as Dr. Melinda Warner on “Law & Order: SVU” and Anita Dupree on “Beyond the Gates,” Pittsburgh’s own triple threat, Tamara Tunie, returns home as the Artist in Residence at MCG Jazz. “An Evening with Tamara Tunie” is the culmination of a residency dedicated to mentoring local student artists and fostering community dialogue. Joined by acclaimed jazz pianist Christian Sands, Tunie brings her “conversation between artist and audience” to the stage for an evening of music designed to inspire both the soul and societal change.
May 23 | MCG Jazz | mcgjazz.org

7.
We’ve all seen them: a group of retirees gathering over morning coffee or breakfast. It’s a daily ritual that seems synonymous with the golden years. “Coconut Cake” explores a group of friends who meet each morning to play chess and share the unspoken weight of aging and life’s transitions. But how strong is their bond? A mysterious woman offering coconut cake will arrive in town and challenge it.
May 28-June 14 | Pittsburgh Public Theater | ppt.org