Community Calendar

Michigan high school seniors: Looking for college money and a way to make a difference in your community?

LAFCU is now accepting entries for its 2026 Write to Educate Essay Contest, awarding $20,000 in college scholarships—plus $2,000 donated to Michigan charities chosen by student winners.

Four students will each receive a $5,000 scholarship to a Michigan college or university and select a local nonprofit to receive a $500 donation from LAFCU. No minimum GPA. No financial-need requirement. No LAFCU membership required.

Students simply submit a one-page essay responding to this year’s prompt, focused on identifying a community issue and proposing a solution. Submit entries by March 31, 2026. For more information: www.lafcu.com/writetoeducate

Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense” was one of the most influential works of the American Revolution. The first edition was published on January 10, 1776, with an initial print run of just 1,000 copies; but within weeks demand soared. The students of Andy Murphy’s POLISCI 495 course co-curated the exhibition “Revolutionary Paine” to document the whirlwind caused by its publication. On view at the Clements January 16-May 8, weekdays from 12-4 pm.

Diego Rivera arrived in Detroit to undertake what would become the most defining mural cycle of his career. In just 11 months, he transformed the walls of the Detroit Institute of Arts into the extraordinary Detroit Industry Murals — a fresco series he later described as his “finest work.” Rivera completed this commission during the period he and his wife, Frida Kahlo, were living in the city, marking a significant chapter in both their lives.

How did the DIA secure one of the world’s most celebrated muralists? What made Detroit the setting for Rivera’s boldest artistic statement? And why do these murals continue to resonate as some of the most important public artworks in America?

In this richly illustrated Historical Speaker Series presentation, art historian Wendy Evans brings Rivera’s Detroit story to life — the industry, the artistry, and the lasting impact of a masterpiece created here in our city.

Join us Sunday, March 22nd from 1–2pm.
$5 for non-members, FREE for members.
Tickets: PackardProvingGrounds.org/Mar22-HSS-PPG

Diego Rivera arrived in Detroit to undertake what would become the most defining mural cycle of his career. In just 11 months, he transformed the walls of the Detroit Institute of Arts into the extraordinary Detroit Industry Murals — a fresco series he later described as his “finest work.” Rivera completed this commission during the period he and his wife, Frida Kahlo, were living in the city, marking a significant chapter in both their lives.

How did the DIA secure one of the world’s most celebrated muralists? What made Detroit the setting for Rivera’s boldest artistic statement? And why do these murals continue to resonate as some of the most important public artworks in America?

In this richly illustrated Historical Speaker Series presentation, art historian Wendy Evans brings Rivera’s Detroit story to life — the industry, the artistry, and the lasting impact of a masterpiece created here in our city.

Join us Sunday, March 22nd from 1–2pm.

$5 for non-members, FREE for members.

Tickets: PackardProvingGrounds.org/Mar22-HSS-PPG

Jerusha Abbott is the “Oldest Orphan in the John Grier Home” until a mysterious benefactor decides to send her to college to be educated as a writer. Required to write him a letter once a month, she is never to know the benefactor’s identity so she invents one for him: Daddy Long Legs. Yet, there is one startling fact that Jerusha has yet to uncover—a fact that will change her life forever.

Deos Contemporary Ballet’s fan-favorite winter repertory ballet performance returns for one powerful weekend, blending bold new works with iconic choreography.

The program features the world premiere of “Trojan Women” by Tess Sinke, inspired by Euripides’ timeless tragedy and exploring resilience, loss, and survival in the aftermath of war. Balancing the evening is Dennis Spaight’s “Crayola” -- a rare, historic ballet performed entirely in silence -- and “Lamentation Variations,” presented in collaboration with the Martha Graham Dance Company, examining grief, hope, and human connection.

Honoring legendary choreographers while amplifying local contemporary voices, EMBER Series 26 offers an intimate, emotionally charged night of dance—on stage for one weekend only.

March 21–22
St. Cecilia Music Center
Grand Rapids, MI
Tickets & info: deosballet.com

Join us in Kerrytown Concert House’s salon-style setting for a captivating concert featuring internationally acclaimed flutist Amy Porter with renowned pianist Christopher Harding. “By Request” is a community-curated recording project led by Professors Amy Porter (flute) and Christopher Harding (piano). After receiving over 70 online votes from students, alumni, and supporters, the repertoire was selected by the public. The chosen works span centuries and styles, featuring composers from diverse backgrounds and voices, including Lowell Liebermann, Mel Bonis, Andre Jolivet, and Karl Reinecke.

Amy Porter, flute
Christopher Harding, piano

The one and only Monster Jam® roars into Detroit for a full-throttle weekend at Ford Field, bringing the world’s most popular Monster Jam trucks and elite drivers to town for Stadium Championship Series East. Fans will experience gravity-defying stunts, head-to-head racing, jaw-dropping skills, and massive air as 12,000-pound trucks battle for the Event Championship.
The action-packed event features iconic Monster Jam trucks like Grave Digger®, Sparkle Smash®, Megalodon®, El Toro Loco®, and more. Fans can start the fun early at the Monster Jam Pit Party®, where they can get up close to the trucks, meet drivers, collect autographs, and enjoy family-friendly activities before the show. With unscripted action, roaring engines, and unforgettable moments, Monster Jam delivers high-energy entertainment for fans of all ages.

One of Shakespeare’s most enduring and beloved comedies! In this play full of mistaken identities and unexpected revelations, love and loyalty are tested in the aftermath of war. The story follows two very different romances: one sweet and straightforward, the other tangled in teasing and stubborn pride. As friends plot to bring enemies-turned-lovers together, a darker scheme threatens to pull everything apart.

This production balances laugh-out-loud wit with the emotional weight of betrayal and redemption. With themes of honor, forgiveness, and the power of truth, Much Ado About Nothing offers a fun night at the theatre for audiences of all ages. Prepare to be captivated by a story where laughter and heartbreak intertwine, and where the most unexpected heroes might just save the day.

Celebrate a century of beauty at Hidden Lake Gardens! Our Spring Flower Show returns with a spectacular tribute to 100 years of growth and inspiration. Step inside the Conservatory and experience its breathtaking transformation into a vibrant showcase of color with daffodils, hyacinths, tulips, amaryllis, and more, ushering in the season of renewal. Open Tuesday through Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM, with last admission at 4:30 PM. Join us for a special after-hours evening on Friday, March 27 until 7:00 PM with last admission at 6:30 PM. Included with regular admission to HLG, learn more at hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu.