10 Great Dates

compiled by Katy Berry

Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour by Cirque du Soleil

January 10-11, Sacramento

A must for Michael Jackson fans, this show combines his music and signature choreography with the mesmerizing acrobatics of Cirque du Soleil. This memorable night will give fans an insight into the heart and spirit of the late King of Pop. Doors at 6 p.m. $52-$252. Powerbalance Pavilion, One Sports Parkway, Sacramento, (916) 928-6900, www.powerbalancepavilion.com

Monster X Tour

January 6-7, Stockton

For the first time ever, Stockton will be the motorsport entertainment epicenter, as the nation's most competitive Monster Trucks and Metal Mulisha FMX Stunt Riders invade the Stockton Arena for this exciting, family-friendly event. See the biggest performers on four wheels weighing in at 10,000 pounds as they compete in racing, wheelie contests, and much more. Then rock the house with amazing freestyle action during the Metal Mulisha FMX! Plus, you can meet the drivers and see the trucks up close at the pre-event Autograph Pit Party. 7 p.m. $7-$32. Stockton Arena, 248 W. Fremont St., Stockton, (209) 373-1400, www.stocktonarena.com

Dearly Beloved

January 11-February 12, Stockton

This comedic play takes place in the gossipy town of Fayro, Texas, and tells the story of the Furtelle sisters-Frankie, Honey Raye, and Twink-as they desperately attempt to throw a wedding for a missing-in-action bride and groom. Full of zany characters, plenty of laughs, and even a performance by The Sermonettes, audiences will be sure to enjoy the loveably dysfunctional sisters in this fun show. Showtimes vary. $15-$25. Stockton Civic Theater, 2312 Rosemarie Lane, Stockton, (209) 473-2424, www.sctlivetheatre.com

San Joaquin International Film Festival

January 12-15, Stockton

Since 2008, the San Joaquin Film Society has been presenting their annual fi lm festival, and bringing innovative and award-winning films from around the world to San Joaquin. The festival also features educational programming, guest artists, locally-made films, and events for all ages. Screenings and events will be held at the Stockton Empire Theatre, and the Janet Leigh Theater. Local lovers of cinema should not miss this important event. Film screenings and event times vary. Prices vary. Stockton Empire Theatre, 1825 Pacific Ave, Stockton, (209) 943-7469. Janet Leigh Theatre, University of the Pacific, 3601 Pacifi c Ave., Stockton, (209) 946-2867, www.sjiff.org

The California Vernacular

January 17-March 3, Lodi

The Knowlton Gallery offers a tribute to our Golden State with a nod to all things uniquely "Californian." Artists Dennis Ziemienski, Carolyn Lord, Randall Sexton, Timothy Horn and Chuck Kovacic have all created their own artistic interpretations of the term. Hours vary. Free. Knowlton Gallery, 115 S. School St., Ste. 14, Lodi, (209) 368-5123, www.knowltongallery.com

 

 

Pagliacci and Gianni Schicchi

January 13 & 15, Stockton

Presented by the Stockton Opera Association, this combination of Leoncavallo Pagliacci's play within a play, and the comedy of Puccini Gianni Schicchi, is sure to delight with its grand music, costumes, and set design. Opera lovers especially should not miss this wonderful opportunity. January 13, 7:30 p.m.; January 15, 2 p.m. $35-$45, $10 for students. Faye Spanos Concert Hall, University of the Pacific, 3601 Pacific Ave., Stockton, (209) 946-2474, www.stocktonopera.org

Harlem Globetrotters, Stockton

January 17, Stockton

For 85 years, the Harlem Globetrotters have been wowing audiences with their impeccable athletic ability, sense of humor, and undeniable skills with a basketball. Not only do they know how to run opponents up and down the court, but these mavericks will impress you with their amazing tricks as they spin balls, slam dunk, and keep you guessing throughout their 2012 world tour. Come see the team's new rookies this year, including the shortest Globetrotter ever, the tallest pro basketball player, and the fi rst female Globetrotter in 19 years. 7 p.m. $16-$83. Stockton Arena, 248 W. Fremont St. Stockton, (209) 373-1400, www.stocktonarena.com

 

Community Center for the Blind Crab Feed

January 21, Stockton

Seafood lovers can unite at this fourth annual event to benefit the Community Center for the Blind. Guests will be able to enjoy a delicious crab dinner, as well as door prizes, a raffle, and a silent auction. 6 p.m. $45. Waterloo Gun and Bocci Club, 4343 N. Ashley Ln., Stockton., (209) 466-3836, www.communitycenterfortheblind.org

Insectfest

January 21, Lodi

Creepy-crawly experts from the Bohart Museum of Entomology at UC Davis and the Lodi Serpentarium will be bringing their fascinating displays and other surprises to share with fellow bug lovers at the WOW Science Museum. Kids and parents will have much to explore and discover as they learn all about their favorite insects from the experts. Insectfest will also have free face painting, arts and crafts, and games for all ages. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $6 adults, $4 kids. World of Wonders Science Museum, 2 N. Sacramento St., Lodi, (209) 368-0969, www.wowsciencemuseum.com

Stockton Thunder

January 27, Stockton

Come support Stockton's own hockey team and get rowdy with the Thunder mascot as you watch our boys battle the Alaska Aces on ice. You don't need to know much about hockey to take in the energy and excitement of this sport. The Thunder will also be giving away a free adult black replica jersey to the first one thousand fans (ages 18+) to arrive, so you can sport your team pride all year long. 7:30 p.m. $7-$28. Stockton Arena, 248 W. Fremont St., Stockton, (209) 373-1400, www.stocktonthunder.com