Southern Utah Weekend Events Guide
This week’s Southern Utah Weekend Events Guide features 2017 Witches Night Out, art galleries, theater productions, live music, and more. Check out the complete guide to find out what is going on this weekend near you. For a full list of events, visit The Independent’s Events Calendar.
“William Shakespeare’s Long Lost First Play (abridged)”
Brought to you by the same guys who starred in the PBS film version of “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged),” this highly-imaginative, vaudeville-infused comedy tells the not-quite factual (well, not at all factual) story of an ancient manuscript purported to be the first play by William Shakespeare. Using questionable scholarship and street-performer smarts, a trio of comic actors will throw themselves into a fast, funny, and frenzied festival of pure hilarity. Showing through Oct. 21, times vary. Tickets are $20–$75. For information and to purchase tickets, click here.
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”
Shakespeare’s luxurious tale of fairies, dreams, and moonlight, this popular comedy gets a new and exciting look when set in the art deco world of the Jazz Age. It is still true that “the course of true love never did run smooth,” and when the feuding king and queen of the fairies interfere in the couplings of mortals, the result is pure pandemonium and magical mayhem. Showing through Oct. 21, times vary. Tickets are $32–$75. For information and to purchase tickets, click here.
“Shrek The Musical”
“Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek.” And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Throw in a short-tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude, and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits and you’ve got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there’s one on hand, and his name is Shrek. Showing through Oct. 20. at 8:45 p.m. Tickets are $29–$89 and can be purchased at tuacahn.org. For information, call (800) 746-9882 or (435) 652-3300.
“Newsies”
Set in New York City at the turn of the century, “Newsies” is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy, and leader of a ragged band of teenaged “newsies” who dreams only of a better life far from the hardship of the streets. But when publishing titans Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack finds a cause to fight for and rallies newsies from across the city to strike for what’s right. Showing through Oct. 18. at 8:45 p.m. Tickets are $29–$89 and can be purchased at tuacahn.org. For information, call (800) 746-9882 or (435) 652-3300.
“Mamma Mia!”
A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. A trip down the aisle you’ll never forget. Writer Catherine Johnson’s sunny and funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. The storytelling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter, and friendship, creating an unforgettable show with a large cast and non-stop laughs. Mamma Mia! Showing through Oct. 21. Showtimes vary. Tickets are $29–$89 and can be purchased at tuacahn.org. For information, call (800) 746-9882 or (435) 652-3300.
“Jekyll & Hyde”
An evocative tale of two men — one a passionate and romantic doctor, the other a terrifying madman — and two women — one, beautiful and trusting, the other beautiful and trusting only herself. Both women in love with the same man and both unaware of his dark secret. A devoted man of science, Dr. Henry Jekyll is driven to find a chemical breakthrough that can solve some of mankind’s most challenging medical dilemmas. Rebuffed by the powers that be, he decides to make himself the subject of his own experimental treatments, accidentally unleashing his inner demons along with the man that the world would come to know as Mr. Hyde. Tickets are $18–$21. For information, click here.
“Noises Off!”
Ever wonder what really happens backstage? Watch as a group of actors try to put together a show where nothing seems to go right! Filled with slapstick, miscues, slamming doors, and personal drama, “Noises Off!” is the most award-winning comedy in Broadway history! Showing Oct. 5–Nov. 4. Tickets are $17–$21. For information, click here.
“Ghost The Musical”
“Ghost The Musical” is a timeless fantasy about the power of love. Walking back to their apartment one night, Sam and Molly are mugged, leaving Sam murdered on a dark street. Sam is trapped as a ghost between this world and the next and unable to leave Molly who he learns is in grave danger. With the help of a phony storefront psychic, Oda Mae Brown, Sam tries to communicate with Molly in the hope of saving and protecting her. Showing Oct. 6–28. Days and times vary. Tickets are $10. For more information, click here.
High Desert Fiber Artists
This group of quilters is a friendship group associated with the Dixie Quilt Guild. This is the second gallery show that they have done at the center. Please stop by and see some remarkable quilts made by local artists. The gallery show will run Oct. 2–30, 2017. For information, click here.
“Artists with a Camera” fall photography exhibition
The St. George Fine Art Photographers Guild hosts its Fall Photography Exhibition Sept. 15–Oct. 14. It features southwest artists from international award winners to emerging talent. For information, click here.
“Connecting Paths”
In August 2016, writer and photographer Brian Passey and his wife, Cammie, embarked on a cross-country road trip to celebrate their first wedding anniversary. The trip had two primary goals: seeing interesting places and visiting loved ones. For 12 of the 16 nights they stayed with friends and family members across the country. That 6,000-mile, 17-day trip is documented through photography and words in the exhibit “Connecting Paths.” Short essays accompany 39 of the 54 photos in the exhibit. The majority of the photos are mounted on six maps of the United States. “Connecting Paths” will be on display in the Eccles Grand Foyer from Sept. 29 through Dec. 8. “Mapping: The Poetics of Utah Expression” will be on display inside the adjacent Sears Art Museum Gallery. Free. For information, click here.
Gregg Peterson Band
Mesquite’s and Vegas’ favorite variety and dance band is the Gregg Peterson Band! Free. Skydome Lounge. Thursday and Sunday 7 p.m–12 a.m., Friday and Saturday 8 p.m.–1:30 a.m. 21 and older. For information, click here.
Desert Outlaws
Desert Outlaws is a high energy, rockin’ country band from the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas. They play current country music with a heavy dose of our Southern rock roots, Classic rock, and a shot of classic country. Virgin River Casino’s River Lounge Thursday 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday and Monday at 7 p.m. 21 and older. For information, click here.
Witches Night Out
Ladies, this is the pre-Halloween bash you’ve dreamed about! Entice all your unsuspecting “ghoul-friends” to join you for an evening of fantasy, mayhem, and entertainment. Come spend a spooktacular “Night on the Farm” together. The spell has been cast on the dazzlingly decorated farmhouse. Enjoy live entertainment, great food, contests, and all the mischief and mayhem that can only happen on just such a night! Sisters, fire up your brooms and fly into Staheli Family Farm for a wicked-good time! Thursday from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Tickets are $22–Advance tickets are required. For information, click here.
Field of Screams
Catch a hayride to southern Utah’s Field of Screams as you walk the trails of this creepy field corn maze with many new scenes and experiences. No more long lines! New “Tractor Time” is included with every Field of Screams admission and season pass. Similar to a Disney FastPass, you’ll receive a time to wait for the tractor hayride to the attraction. You’re now free to enjoy all the farm has to offer. Warning! This attraction may not be suitable for all ages. All ages are welcome, but only the brave will come. Recommend for 12 and older. Tickets are $13–$23. Thursday through Saturday from 8:30 to 11 p.m. For information, click here.
Spooky Trick-or-Treat Trail
Looking for a not-too-scary Halloween fright for the kids? This spooky family-friendly attraction is great for toddlers on up. Don’t be afraid to step inside Staheli Family Farm’s tiny, slightly-haunted shack. No horrific scenes. No live characters will be moving about (only dead ones. Just kidding!). This attraction is super-chill and all good. It’s the perfect way for your kids to enjoy the fun of a haunted house while still being able to sleep in their own beds at night. Scaredycats have the option of not entering the haunted shack (Hey, it happens!). Last season, there were only a few tots too afraid to enter; even so, they perked right up when it was time to knock on the next door for a trick-or-treat! Tickets are $7–$10 (three tokens per child/round trip with paid admission). For information, click here.
Corn Maize 
Staheli Family Farm Corn Maize. Tickets are $7–$10. Thursday 5–9 p.m. Friday and Saturday noon–11 p.m. Enjoy the new trails and fresh, green cornstalks. For information, click here.
Desert Dweller Project at Even Stevens
Desert Dweller Project plays at Even Stevens Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, click here or call (435) 251-6636
Waffles & Witches
Waffles & Witches is an interactive breakfast/brunch with our friendly farm witches. Join them for a full breakfast and toast-your-own waffles, topped just the way you and your littles like ’em! The new witches show has lights, sound, and special effects, along with hexes, spells, dances, tricks, and a magical witches brew by our delightful gaggle of witches. Friday 9 a.m.–10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Tickets are $15. For information, click here.
Jakey Leigh’s Cafe presents Colton Avery
Jakey Leigh’s Cafe will host Colton Avery Friday night from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Colton Avery is a singer/songwriter from Phoenix. The show is free and open to the public. For information, click here.
Jerry Allen at Sand Hollow Resort
Jerry Allen plays Friday from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Free. Jerry Allen is based out of St. George and cites Matchbox 20 and The GooGoo Dolls as influences. Dinner can be purchased from 6 p.m to 10 p.m. Alcohol is available to purchase for those over 21. For information, click here.
Art Cowles at Even Stevens
Art Cowles will play at Even Stevens Friday from 7 to 9 p.m. Art Cowles is a singer/songwriter from St. George playing rock, jazz, and blues. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, click here or call (435) 251-6636.
The Beatles’ “1”
The Beatles’ “1” Performed Live by “The Fab”. Saturday 8:30 p.m. CasaBlanca Showroom. This is a 21-and-older show. ID’s are required. Tickets are $15–$35. For information, click here.
DJ Spinz at The One and Only
DJ Spinz will be at the One and Only Friday night at 9 p.m. Dance the night away, have a few drinks, play pool, and have a great time! Click here for more information.
Year-Round Farmer’s Market in Cedar City
Visit the only year-round farmer’s market in Utah, a real farmers market that sells only locally produced and grown fruit, vegetables, jam, bread, and other farm products. The event happens on Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at the IFA parking lot. For information, contact Symbria Patterson at info@yearroundfarmersmarket.org or call her at (435) 865-6792.
Tuacahn Saturday Market
Stroll among local artists and artisans while enjoying live local entertainment Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more shopping fun, step inside the beautiful new Tuacahn Gift Gallery where you will find Tuacahn Amphitheater souvenirs, home decor items, gifts, and much more.
Lorin Walker Trio at Zion Canyon Brew Pub
Lorin Walker plays at Zion Canyon Brew Pub Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m. Lorin Walker plays “high-desert honky punk,” his version of outlaw country. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, call (435) 772-0404.
Colton Avery at Sand Hollow Resort
Colton Avery plays Saturday from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Free. Colton Avery is a singer/songwriter from Phoenix. Dinner can be purchased from 6 p.m to 10 p.m. Alcohol is available to purchase for those over 21. For information, click here.
The Naturals at Even Stevens
The Naturals play at Even Stevens Saturday from 7 to 9 p.m. The Naturals are an indie band from Santa Clara. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, click here or call (435) 251-6636.
Mesozoic at Juniper Ridge Restaurant and Saloon
Mesozoic plays at Juniper Ridge Restaurant and Saloon 8 p.m. Mesozoic is a Kanab-based classic rock band covering everything from Pink Floyd to Journey. his event is free and open to the public. For more information, click here.
Tom Bennett at Peekaboo Canyon Wood Fired Kitchen
Tom Bennett plays at Peekaboo Canyon Wood Fired Kitchen Saturday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Bennett is a blues man from SLC. Come listen and enjoy some of southern Utah’s largest selections of beer and a very unique wine list along with some really memorable food. For information, call (435) 689-1959.
Colton Avery at Even Stevens
Colton Avery plays at Even Stevens Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. Colton Avery is a singer/songwriter from Phoenix, Arizona. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, click here or call (435) 251-6636.
