DAY TRIPPER: THE BEATLES EXPERIENCE
Though it’s been almost 45 years since The Beatles last played together publicly on a London rooftop, you’ll feel as though it was only “Yesterday” as you behold The Beatles Experience. Four accomplished Montreal musicians take the stage as John, Paul, George, and Ringo, reviving the nuances, mannerisms, and musicianship of the band that forever changed the world. From Beatlemania to Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band to Abbey Road, this concert will have you twisting and shouting for more. $51. Thursday, April 4, 8 p.m. Salle Odysée, 855 boule. de la Gappe., Gatineau, www.beatlesexperience.com.
EXTRAORDINARY ARCTIC FESTIVAL
As the weather (hopefully) warms up in the city, things are cooling off at the Canadian Museum of Nature. The Extraordinary Arctic Festival kicks off this weekend, featuring films, storytelling, performing arts, games, and activities. Coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Arctic Expedition (a scientific expedition in the Arctic Circle), the Festival’s feature exhibit, Flora of the Canadian Arctic, contrasts flora specimens from 1912 and 2012. Get out and discover the remarkable heritage of Canada’s far north! $12, students and seniors $10, children $8, children three and under free. Thursday, April 4, to Sunday, April 28, Canadian Museum of Nature, 240 McLeod St., www.nature.ca.
ORIGINALS: THE SPRING CRAFT SALE
Could your home, garden, or wardrobe use some updating? A bit of pizazz? A trip to Originals should help to liven things up. A wide selection of fine handmade work from 180 artists, artisans, and designers make it easy to shop for Mother’s Day (or treat yourself!), plus brides-to-be should check out Saturday’s bridal “party” day, featuring dress designers and celebrity wedding planner Stacey Price. $7 (weekend pass), youth (13-17) and seniors $4, children 12 and under free. Thursday, April 4, to Sunday, April 7. See website for show hours. Ottawa Convention Centre, 55 Colonel By Dr., www.originalsshow.ca.
OTTAWA ANTIQUE SHOW
If you’ve been keeping an eye out for a timeless treasure, you may find a little piece of the past to call your own at the Ottawa Antique Show. This year’s show hosts over 50 vendors offering accessories, artwork, and furnishings for sale. With a variety of items and a wide range of price points, there’s a hidden gem here for everyone. $10 (weekend pass), 18 and under free. Friday, April 5, to Sunday, April 7. See website for show hours. Carleton University Fieldhouse, Bronson Avenue at Sunnyside Avenue, www.ottawaantiqueshow.ca.
ART THROB @ JUNXION
Get out of the house and get into house music at JunXion! This night of festivities benefits Ottawa arts programs by raising money for youth scholarships at the Ottawa School of Art (OSA), and the School of the Photographic Arts: Ottawa (SPAO). Your heart will be racing on the dance floor as local musicians Zoo Legacy, NDMA, and Silkken Laumann spin an eclectic mix of house, hip-hop, electro, indie, and rock all night long. From $10. Friday, April 5, 9 p.m. The JunXion Public House, 15 George St., www.artthrob.eventbrite.com.
MURDER AT THE HOWARD JOHNSON’S
Jealousy rears its ugly head at The Howard Johnson Motor Inn as members of a love triangle collide and murderous plots begin to take form. Three scenes deliver three failed murder scenarios, as different members of the triangle side with one another to assassinate the third party. The Phoenix Players deliver a riotous dark comedy will have you in stitches! $18, students and seniors $15. Until April 13. See website for show times. The Gladstone, 910 Gladstone Ave., www.phoenixplayers.ca.
YOGA ZONE FUNDRAISER
The Adi Shesha Yoga Studio offers more than just yoga to make you feel good. This Saturday afternoon, spend your time and money at the Grand Fundraising Bazaar to raise funds for a life-saving kidney transplant needed by a 17-year-old Nepalese boy. Food, drink, entertainment, and yoga giveaways set the scene as you browse a wide variety of items on sale, generously donated by local businesses, artisans, and restaurants. Donations welcomed. Saturday, April 6, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Adi Shesha Yoga Studio, 1338 ½ Wellington St. W., www.adishesha.com.
INSIDE THE MUSIC: OTTAWA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA (FREE!)
Ever wondered how an orchestra comes together so beautifully? Bring the family and get a behind the scenes look with OrKidstra and the Ottawa Symphony Orchestra. As the OSO prepares for Monday night’s concert A Russian Celebration, kids can watch and listen as David Currie directs and perfects the sound of the symphony. Kids will partake in activities led by OrKidstra musicians, and will even have the opportunity to conduct a small ensemble themselves. Light refreshments will follow the fun. Sunday, April 7, 2.30 p.m. to 5 p.m. NAC, Southam Hall, 53 Elgin St., www.ottawasymphony.com.