ROCK OF AGES
“Don’t Stop Believin’” in the power of love and ’80s rock and roll. Rock of Ages, the five-time Tony-nominated smash hit, comes to town with Broadway Across Canada. The story is this: a young girl comes to L.A. in search of stardom and gets swept up the in the fast-paced life of the big city, meeting a boy named Drew along the way who’s got his eyes set on fame. Meanwhile, a developer is trying to change the Sunset Strip and tear down the beloved club the Bourbon Room where all the dreamers come to play. And the ultimate bad boy, rock star Stacee Jaxx, has returned for his final concert with the band Arsenal. The show is edgy, sexy, and campy, and features popular songs by Journey, Night Ranger, Styx, White Snake, and so many more. From $38. On until Sunday, March 10. National Arts Centre, 53 Elgin St., www.nac-cna.ca.
VAGINA MONOLOGUES
To raise funds aimed at ending violence against women and girls and in support of the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa, VDAY Ottawa presents their take on Eve Ensler’s iconic play. Be prepared to hear a range of stories that range from hilarious to heartbreaking. $25. Friday, March 8, and Saturday, March 9, 8 p.m. The Bronson Centre Theatre, 211 Bronson Ave., www.vdayottawa2013.com.
OTTAWA TIBET FILM FESTIVAL
In its first year in existence, the Ottawa Tibet Film Festival aims to expose the Ottawa region to filmmakers and artists hailing from Tibet. Come learn more the richness of Tibetan culture, as well as the contemporary issues its people face, through feature-length movies, documentaries, and short films. $12, students $10, festival pass, $35. Friday, March 8, and Saturday, March 9. St. Paul University Amphitheatre, 223 Main St., www.ottawatibetfilmfestival.com.
PARADOX: A MAGICAL NIGHT OF MIND-READING AND HYPNOTISM
Prepare to be flummoxed by illusionist and mentalist Jaymes White. You won’t believe your eyes (or trust your brain) when this local young talent gives his hypnotic performance. $20, $15 in advance. Saturday, March 9, 7:30 p.m. Arts Court Theatre, 2 Daly Ave., www.jaymeswhite.com.
TRAVEL AND VACATION SHOW
The winter season getting you down? Even if spring is just around the corner, everyone in Ottawa knows the warm weather is still a while off. Perhaps a vacation show is in order, where you can get inspired to plan your next trip, score deals to far away lands, and enjoy the food prepared by celebrity chefs. This year’s focus is on culinary tourism. $10. Saturday, March 9, and Sunday, March 10, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ottawa Convention Centre, 55 Colonel By Dr., www.travelandvacationshow.ca.
THE DROWSY CHAPERONE
Finally a show for those who love musical theatre and those who think it’s a little bit much. This musical within a comedy may poke fun at musical theatre, but it also boasts a Tony Award-wining score. It’s a Canadian success story too, having started out at the Toronto Fringe Festival before making it big in New York. $40, children $25. Friday, March 8, to Sunday, March 17. Centrepointe Theatre, 101 Centrepointe Dr., www.centrepointetheatre.com.
ABSURD PERSON SINGULAR
Ah, the foibles of marriage (and Christmas). Now that your own holiday headaches are long past, sit back and enjoy, stress free, Seven Thirty Productions’ staging of the Alan Ayckbourn comedy that follows the changing fortunes of three couples. $39, students $23, seniors $34. On until Sunday, March 23. The Gladstone, 910 Gladstone Ave., www.thegladstone.ca.