The MAC's interactive art exhibit of Edo period Japanese art on loan from an Italian museum was fantastic. Nice display, friendly staff, clear explanation of the history and people, a little comic book fun, some do-it-yourself art, and - of course- lots of places to take photos. See it before it's gone. Time: 3 hours, including snack break

Our party-of-four attended the New Year's Eve afternoon concert of the New Philharmonic at the McAninich Arts Center (the MAC), and it was an enjoyable holiday experience. The MAC staff were all friendly & accommodating to the largely geriatric crowd. Two of us sat 3 rows back in the Floor seats, while my wife & I were seated at a table with chairs right in front of the stage. This show included a bass-baritone singer (Mischa Bouvier) and a trio of electric violinists from the local CoverGirls musical group, each accompanied by the New Philharmonic symphonic orchestra. The show selection had a mix of light classical & pop tunes. None of the musical artists featured in the approx. 75-minute show were exceptionally talented IMO, but Maestro Kirk Muspratt kept the concert lively via his banter & encouragement of audience participation. Some of the entertainers mingled with guests in the MAC lobby after the show, which was a good way to end the afternoon outing ... once we made our way past the lineup of dozens of medical assist walkers in the theater access hallway.

Three stars because the stage floor light show is very distracting and weird, January 13 for Tyler Hilton and Cowtown Swing band. True traditional country does not need or want fancy light shows that look like optical illusions of water on the stage! I closed my eyes to avoid it. Hateful.Tyler Hilton is a fine performer but he did not sing Elvis songs as promised. Sounded like his own, good songs, great voice--but he was promoted as an Elvis guy.Those who are hard of hearing will have difficulty with the words.

There is no traffic near the Mac. There is no problem parking at the Mac. You can sit front row or at the stage-side tables very inexpensively. The Mac is a modest sized auditorium so there a few places this intimate. Why go anywhere else?

Yes, this Friday night date night outing is free and well worth the long line to get into the venue and find a spot to squeeze in your blanket or lawn chairs! We saw The Magic of Motown on a warm Friday evening and it was a spectacular performance. You were able to purchase drink tickets for beer or wine. The choices of food stands that evening were Weber Grill, Parker's, or the hot dog cart! Highly recommend your calendars for the next summer series in 2020!