A busy entertainment weekend in Merced
This weekend’s entertainment options offer the start of a film series, a romp for the whole family and Broadway music.
Film series
The UC Merced Human Rights Film Series begins with “3 1/2 minutes, 10 Bullets” at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 5, in Classroom Office Building 120 at the 5200 Lake Road campus.
The film chronicles the murder trial of Michael Dunn, who fired gunshots into a car carrying four unarmed black teenagers in Jacksonville, Fla., killing one, 17-year-old Jordan Davis.
The series, which turns 10 this year, is meant to spark discussion about human rights, and to use film to highlight violence and inequality, according to a news release.
The series is free and open to the public. For more, call 209-658-9481 or send an email to hrfilm@ucmerced.edu.
‘Hairspray’
Playhouse Merced’s version of “Hairspray” opens at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 5, at the playhouse, 452 W. Main St.
Originally a film from John Waters, a filmmaker known to test the limits, the musical is a sweet adaptation for the whole family. It’s a romantic comedy that takes place during the racially integrating 1960s.
The Feb. 13 showing is also a benefit for the Valley Crisis Center, which advocates for victims of domestic and sexual violence in Merced County.
Tickets are $10 to $22. Go to playhousemerced.com or call 209-725-8587.
Pops concert
The Merced Symphony Pops Concert featuring “Broadway Favorites,” is at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, at the Merced Theatre, 301 W. Main St.
Music Director Ming Luke leads the orchestra in a variety of popular music from productions such as “Wicked,” “West Side Story” and “Carousel.” Music from composers George Gershwin, Cole Porter and Richard Rodgers are part of the show.
Carrie Hennessey, a Sacramento-based soprano, will join the musicians for the performance.
Tickets are $39 general, or $14 for students with ID, and are available by calling 209-381-0500 or visiting mercedtheatre.org.
This story was originally published February 4, 2016 at 2:27 PM with the headline "A busy entertainment weekend in Merced."