This weekend is all about the arts in Oakland. Whether you're getting outside to enjoy the Oakland Dance Fest or Oakhella's season-opener street party, or cooling off indoors with a circus performance or a rock show, there's a host of cultural events to enjoy.
Here are the top events around The Town over the next few days.
The John Mellencamp Show
John Mellencamp is in town for one night only. Known for hits like "Hurts So Good," "Jack and Diane," and "Pink Houses," the Grammy winner was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2008, and won an American Music Award for Lifetime Achievement Award for Songwriting in 2010. He'll perform a host of classic tunes, along with some new cuts from his latest album, 2018's "Other People's Stuff."
When: Thursday, April 25, 8 p.m.
Where: Paramount Theater, 2025 Broadway
Price: $52 - 403
"Heart of Oakland" benefit for the Oakland School for the Arts
The spring benefit for the Oakland School for the Arts (OSA) will honor former Gov. Jerry Brown, who founded the school when he was Oakland's mayor in 2002.
Scheduled performers include legendary percussionist Pete Escovedo (alongside his sons, Juan and Peter Michael); "Blindspotting" star Rafael Casal;
"Snap Judgment" host Glynn Washington; and a number of OSA students, spotlighting talents that range from music to theater to dance. For those seeking an exclusive experience, a preshow VIP party will be held in the Fox's bar, The Den.
When: Friday, April 26, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Fox Theater, 1807 Telegraph Ave.
Price: $15 - 300
Oakland Dance Festival
Whether you prefer watching dancers perform or getting your own dancing shoes on, you'll enjoy this two-day outdoor dance party in Jack London Square. The event brings together Bay Area dancers of all ages, specializing in all types of dance techniques, including jazz, hip-hop, ballet, folk and more. For those looking to get moving, the festival closes out with a big, public dance party.
When: Saturday - Sunday, April 27 - 28, 2 - 8 p.m.
Where: Jack London Square
Price: Free
Kinetic Arts Center presents "Circus Star Galactica"
If you enjoy the themed circus performances of Cirque du Soleil, consider checking out the latest show from their homegrown Oakland equivalent, the Kinetic Arts Center. "Circus Star Galactica" follows a group of interstellar travelers who arrive on planet "Mahna Mahna," where they encounter strange creatures who perform impressive and sometimes death-defying acrobatic stunts.
When: Saturday - Sunday, April 27- 28, times vary
Where: Kinetic Arts Center, 785 7th St.
Price: $12 - 50
Oakhella Festival season opener
Oakhella is back for another season of sun-drenched day parties centered around its community garden in West Oakland. For this season kickoff, expect live performances by Quelle Chris, Nappy Nina, Rob Woods & Curb Service and Jiggs, along with DJs, artwork, food trucks and local vendors.
When: Sunday, April 28, 1 - 8 p.m.
Where: Bottoms Up Community Garden, 8th and Peralta St.
Price: Free admission with RSVP