Fall is coming, and now is the perfect time to get in some fun before the snow flies. Get details on the hottest concerts, theater shows, dance performances, and more coming to Metro Detroit in the fall of 2023 with this handy guide.
September | October | November
September
Mlima’s Tale
Witness the Michigan premiere of this critically acclaimed work by playwright Lynn Nottage. The story follows the afterlife of an African elephant named Mlima, who is slaughtered for his tusks by black market ivory traders. As his soul follows the path of his tusks, Mlima takes the audience through the heartbreaking world of poaching, crafting a powerful and haunting message that is sure to remain with viewers long after the play’s conclusion. Sept. 1-24. $22. Theatre Nova, 410 W. Huron St., Ann Arbor; theatrenova.org.
Beck and Phoenix
French pop-rock band Phoenix first hit U.S. airwaves in 2009 with its Grammy Award-winning album Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix, which featured radio-friendly singles like “Lisztomania” and “1901.” Hear the band’s latest single, “After Midnight,” when it makes a stop at Pine Knob, along with eight-time Grammy Award-winning artist Beck. After rising to fame with his 1994 slacker-rock hit “Loser,” the Los Angeles-based vocalist and multi- instrumentalist went on to dabble in a rainbow of musical genres, from folk to funk to psychedelic rock. His most recent projects include collaborations with Jenny Lewis, Gorillaz, and Paul McCartney. Sept. 2. $29+. Pine Knob Music Theatre, 33 Bob Seger Drive, Clarkston; 313presents.com.
Greta Van Fleet
Hailing from Michigan’s very own hamlet of Frankenmuth, this local band struck it big when its debut single, “Highway Tune,” spent four weeks atop Billboard’s Mainstream Rock and Active Rock charts in 2017. The prog-rock group has since released three studio albums, winning a Grammy Award for best rock album in 2019 for From the Fires. See what all the fuss is about when the four-piece makes a stop at Little Caesars Arena in support of its 2023 album Starcatcher. Sept. 8. $49+. Little Caesars Arena, 2645 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313presents.com.
Jason Aldean
Boasting career album sales north of 20 million and a staggering 27 No. 1 singles, including “You Make It Easy” and “Dirt Road Anthem,” this country singer and guitarist was named Artist of the Decade by the Academy of Country Music in 2019. He’ll play tracks from his 2022 album Georgia when he heads out on tour with support from singer-songwriter Mitchell Tenpenny, The Voice contestant Corey Kent, and Dee Jay Silver. Sept. 8. $108+. Pine Knob Music Theatre, 33 Bob Seger Drive, Clarkston; 313presents.com.
Duran Duran
Get ready for an ’80s throwback when this beloved English new-wave act stops at Little Caesars Arena to support its latest studio album, Future Past. Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022, the band released a slew of influential hits in the early 1980s, including “Rio” and “Hungry Like the Wolf” — the latter of which won the group a Grammy Award for best short-form music video in 1984. Duran Duran will be joined by prolific disco stars Nile Rodgers and Chic along with contemporary British pop-rockers Bastille. Sept. 16. $29+. Little Caesars Arena, 2645 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313presents.com.
Jessica Kirson
This New Jersey-born comedian, actress, and producer established herself by performing at some of New York City’s most notable comedy clubs — including Laugh Factory, Carolines, and Gotham Comedy Club. Her 2019 Comedy Central special, Talking to Myself, was produced by Bill Burr and featured Kirson’s self-deprecating takes on dating as a lesbian and growing up as the child of a therapist. Kirson currently works as a contributor on The Howard Stern Show, where she produces and participates in hilarious prank phone calls. Sept. 17. $35. Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. 4th St., Royal Oak; royaloakmusictheatre.com.
Death Grips
Combining elements of punk rock, electronic, and industrial music, this experimental hip-hop trio’s 2012 debut album, The Money Store, was met with rabid critical and fan acclaim. Known for incorporating extensive improvisation and bizarre stage stunts, including handcuffed performances and destruction of instruments, a Death Grips live show promises to be anything but boring. Sept. 17. $65+. The Fillmore, 2115 Woodward Ave., Detroit; livenation.com.
Aerosmith
Don’t miss your last chance to catch one of the biggest names in rock live onstage when Aerosmith stops at Little Caesars Arena during its Peace Out farewell tour. Touting a back catalog rife with smash hits, including “Dream On,” “Walk This Way,” and “Sweet Emotion,” the Steven Tyler-led outfit has won four Grammy Awards and was named one of the greatest artists of all time by Rolling Stone magazine. Southern rockers The Black Crowes will open the show. Sept. 18. $179+. Little Caesars Arena, 2645 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313presents.com.
Disney on Ice Presents Find Your Hero
Embark on an adventure with characters and music from your family’s favorite animated films, including Encanto, Frozen, and Moana, at this dazzling Disney experience. Featuring world-class ice skating, incredible costumes, and immersive set designs, the production is sure to keep the entire family engaged and entertained. Sept. 21-24. $25+. Little Caesars Arena, 2645 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313presents.com.
Katt Williams
The Emmy Award-winning actor and comedic legend has lent his sense of humor to countless movies and television shows, including Atlanta, The Last O.G., and Black-ish. His most recent stand-up special, World War III, saw the comedian dishing on everything from chicken wing shortages to the war on drugs. Catch his hilarious stand-up act live when he stops at the Fox Theatre during his upcoming Dark Matter tour. Sept. 22. $59+. Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313presents.com.
Anthony Jeselnik
Known for pitch-black comedy and a stage persona that verges on sociopathic, Jeselnik was hired as a writer for Late Night with Jimmy Fallon in 2009. After the majority of his material was shot down by Fallon for being too dark, the comedian began writing for Comedy Central’s popular series of celebrity roasts, which brought his unique brand of comedy to a larger — and more appropriate — audience. He currently hosts The Jeselnik & Rosenthal Vanity Project, a podcast he created with his best friend and co-host Gregg Rosenthal. Sept. 23. $93+. Masonic Cathedral Theatre, 500 Temple St., Detroit; axs.com.
Birmingham Street Art Fair
Set in and around scenic Shain Park, this celebrated art fair, now in its 49th year, will showcase 100 juried artists working in a variety of mediums, including paint, glass, sculpture, fiber, and jewelry. Visitors will also enjoy a full program of live music, a children’s activity area, and food options from a variety of local vendors. Sept. 23-24. No cost. Shain Park, 270 W. Merrill St., Birmingham; theguild.org.
Funny Girl
Nearly 60 years after Barbra Streisand starred in its original Broadway debut, this Tony Award-winning musical comedy continues to dazzle theater lovers of all ages with its iconic score, catchy lyrics, and stunning tap-dance choreography. Follow Fanny Brice, a stagestruck NYC teen, as she falls in love, chases her dreams of fame, and navigates life’s misadventures with a smile on her face. Sept. 26-Oct. 8. $39+. Fisher Theatre, 3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com.
Peter Gabriel
After rising to fame as the lead singer of progressive rock band Genesis, this English musician, singer, songwriter, and producer launched a prolific solo career that won him three Brit Awards, six Grammy Awards, and a whopping 13 MTV Video Music Awards. Gabriel is widely considered to be one of rock’s most innovative and influential musicians, and his best-known singles include “Solsbury Hill” and “Sledgehammer.” Hear those hits — plus selections from his newest album I/O — when he and his bandmates make a Detroit stop this fall. Sept. 29. $50+. Little Caesars Arena, 2645 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313presents.com.
October
Broken Social Scene
Celebrating more than two decades of experimental rock innovation, this Canadian musical collective formed by guitarist Kevin Drew and bassist Brendan Canning comprises anywhere from six to 19 members and spans multiple genres, including soul, post-rock, and noise pop. Featuring exciting improvisation and lush instrumentation with guitars, horns, strings, and woodwinds, the group’s live act is a spectacle to behold. Vancouver-based singer- songwriter Hannah Georgas will kick off the show. Oct. 2. $30+. Majestic Theatre, 4140 Woodward Ave., Detroit; majesticdetroit.com.
Ken Ludwig’s Moriarty
A new Sherlock Holmes mystery by award-winning playwright Ken Ludwig will make its Michigan debut at Meadow Brook Theatre this fall. Follow Holmes and his sidekick, Dr. Watson, as they investigate criminal mastermind Professor Moriarty and his cunning team of henchmen. Full of intrigue, adventure, and laughter, the production is suitable for teens and adults. Oct. 4-29. $37+. Meadow Brook Theatre, 378 Meadow Brook Road, Rochester; mbtheatre.com.
Ty Segall
Influenced by glam rock auteurs like David Bowie and T. Rex, this California-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist has released 14 solo albums over the course of his nearly 20-year career. On his most recent offering, 2022’s Hello, Hi, Segall weaves together soft acoustic guitars and harmonic layers to create a melancholy rainy-day soundtrack. But it’s more bombastic, glam-tinged garage rock that Segall’s best known for — the kind that made standout singles like “Caesar” and “Feel” so undeniably infectious. Oct. 6. $29.50+. Majestic Theatre, 4140 Woodward Ave., Detroit; majesticdetroit.com.
Cinderella
World Ballet Series’ eclectic, multinational cast of 40 ballet dancers will bring the classic tale of a maid-turned-princess to Music Hall’s main stage this month. Vibrant handsewn costumes and immaculately detailed set pieces combine with Sergei Prokofiev’s iconic score to create a stunning production that will enchant viewers of all ages. Oct. 6. $25+. Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts, 350 Madison St., Detroit; musichall.org.
Hocus Pocus Shadowcast
The award-winning Goblin King Players will bring the beloved Halloween film to life at this family-friendly show. Watch Hocus Pocus play on the Redford Theatre’s silver screen while a talented cast acts along live onstage, complete with film-accurate costumes and props.A VIP option provides early entry, themed cocktails or mocktails, and photo ops with the Sanderson sisters themselves. Oct. 6-7. $20 for adults; $15 for children 12 and under. Redford Theatre, 17360 Lahser Road, Detroit; redfordtheatre.com.
Ringo Starr and His All-Star Band
The Beatles drummer returns to touring for the first time since 2019, bringing his All-Starr Band to Detroit’s Masonic Temple Theatre for a retrospective performance that will include Beatles songs as well as selections from the musician’s prolific solo career. His most recent release, 2022’s EP3 EP, features collaborations with Steve Lukather (Toto), Linda Perry (4 Non Blondes), bassist Nathan East, and saxophonist Dave Koz. Oct. 7. $59+. Masonic Temple Theatre, 500 Temple St., Detroit; axs.com.
Madame Butterfly
Giacomo Puccini’s famous opera about a young Japanese girl who marries an American naval officer in early 20th-century Nagasaki comes to life at the Detroit Opera House this fall. A collaboration between Detroit Opera, Cincinnati Opera, San Diego Opera, Utah Opera, and Pittsburgh Opera, this new production features an all-Japanese and Japanese American cast and creative team. Oct. 7-15. $21+. Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway St., Detroit; detroitopera.org.
Little Dragon
Best known for its back catalog of high-profile collaborations with acts like Gorillaz, DJ Shadow, and Flying Lotus, this Swedish electronic music group led by vocalist Yukimi Nagano specializes in blending elements of trip-hop, downtempo, synth-pop, and indie soul. The band’s latest album, Slugs of Love, was released in July and features the groovy single “Gold” as well as “Glow,” a collaboration with Blur and Gorillaz mastermind Damon Albarn. Oct. 8. $29+. Saint Andrew’s Hall, 431 E. Congress St., Detroit; livenation.com.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Enjoy a large-screen showing of the original cult classic film while a cast of live performers acts along onstage. Guests will also have the opportunity to view a display of memorabilia from the original film, including costumes and props. For the die-hard fans, a VIP ticket option is available, which includes a meet and greet with Barry Bostwick. Costumes are encouraged. Oct. 12. $55+. Fisher Theatre, 3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com.
Thundercat
Singer, songwriter, producer, and bassist Stephen Lee Bruner — better known as Thundercat — made a name for himself by collaborating with some of the biggest names in hip-hop and R&B, including Flying Lotus and Kendrick Lamar. His solo career is no less celebrated — especially his 2020 album It Is What It Is, which won him a Grammy Award for best progressive R&B album. Most recently, he collaborated with Australian psych-rock outfit Tame Impala on the single “No More Lies.” Oct. 13. $37+. Masonic Cathedral Theatre, 500 Temple St., Detroit; axs.com.
Handcrafters Fall Fair
Browse handmade decor, specialty foods, jewelry, and crafts from 80 of the Midwest’s top artisans at this 44th annual fall fair. Friday kicks off with a “Sip & Shop” event complete with mimosas and snacks. Oct. 13-14. No cost for children under 12. $4. Embassy Suites, 19525 Victor Parkway, Livonia; hcshows.com.
Taylor Tomlinson
After becoming a top-10 finalist on the ninth season of NBC’s Last Comic Standing, Tomlinson went on to appear on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Conan, and several Comedy Central productions. Named one of the top 10 comics to watch by Variety in 2018, Tomlinson draws much of the material for her stand-up routines from her childhood experiences, particularly her upbringing in a strict Christian family. Her most recent special, 2022’s Look at You, touched on grief, dating, and mental health to widespread critical acclaim. Oct. 14. $39+. Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313presents.com.
The Darkness
The English rock band will celebrate the 20th anniversary of its multiplatinum-selling debut album, Permission to Land, when it embarks on a North American tour this fall. That album’s lead single, “I Believe in a Thing Called Love,” lit up charts in both the U.K. and the U.S. with its throwback-y, glam-tinged sound and arena-ready falsetto vocals. The band will perform Permission to Land in its entirety, along with standout tracks from its six subsequent studio albums. Oct. 15. $39+. Saint Andrew’s Hall, 431 E. Congress St., Detroit; livenation.com.
Company
This modern revival of Stephen Sondheim and George Furth’s groundbreaking 1970 production won five Tony Awards, including best revival of a musical, in 2022. The insightful yet hilarious story follows Bobbie as she navigates her own 35th birthday party and is repeatedly asked, “Why aren’t you married yet?” Filled with catchy and beloved songs like “You Could Drive a Person Crazy” and “The Ladies Who Lunch,” the production explores the demands and joys of being a woman in the 21st century. Oct. 17-29. $70+. Fisher Theatre, 3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com.
The Price Is Right Live
Detroiters will have a chance to play iconic games and win fabulous prizes — including a brand-new car — when this interactive stage production based on the hit TV game show returns to the Fox Theatre. To date, the live show has given away more than $15 million in prizes across North America. Oct. 18. $30+. Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313presents.com.
Dance Theater of Harlem
The renowned company, founded in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell, the first African American principal dancer of New York City Ballet, returns to Detroit with a new artistic director, choreographer Robert Garland, at the helm. Oct. 21-22. Cost TBA. Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway St., Detroit; detroitopera.org.
John Malkovich in The Music Critic
The Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning actor portrays a fictional critic who skewers the likes of Beethoven, Mozart, Bach, and Brahms in this hilarious hybrid of comedy, theater, and symphony. Musician and composer Aleksey Igudesman wrote the show based on actual critiques of classical masterworks, which are performed by a talented live orchestra that includes pianist Hyung-ki Joo and cellist Antonio Lysy. Oct. 25. $49+. The Fillmore, 2115 Woodward Ave., Detroit; livenation.com.
Trevor Noah
Following his departure from Comedy Central’s Emmy Award-winning The Daily Show, on which he served as host for seven years, this South African comedian and writer will head out on the road for his Off the Record stand-up tour. The shows are just one of many irons Noah has in the fire — he’s set to release a new book and podcast later this year. Oct. 26-27. $35+. Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313presents.com.
Michelle Wolf
After cutting her teeth as a contributor on Late Night with Seth Meyers and The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, this comedian, writer, and producer was launched to new levels of fame when she hosted the 2018 White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner. Her biting brand of political comedy went viral, landing her two Netflix shows and a feature in Bill Burr’s Friends Who Kill special. Oct. 29. $29.50+. Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. 4th St., Royal Oak; royaloakmusictheatre.com.
The 1975
The U.K.-based critical darlings will head out on their “Still … at Their Very Best” tour this fall in continued promotion of their acclaimed 2022 album Being Funny in a Foreign Language. Lauded for its eclectic styling, cunning lyrics, and raw musical talent, the alternative rock band was named Band of the Decade at the 2020 NME Awards and boasts four Brit Awards, five NME Awards, and two Grammy Award nominations. Oct. 31. $39+. Little Caesars Arena, 2645 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313presents.com.
November
Menopause the Musical
Making women laugh for more than 20 years, this comedic musical by Jeanie Linders turns classic songs from the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s into hilarious show tunes about hot flashes, night sweats, and memory loss. Nov. 1. $36+. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor; michtheater.org.
Roosevelt
As Roosevelt, the German singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Marius Lauber creates disco music for modern times by stitching together synth-pop sounds, electronic beats, and groovy guitar lines. He’ll tour in support of a slew of new stand-alone singles, including “Ordinary Love” and “Luna,” when he brings his energetic and supremely danceable live performance to Detroit’s Majestic Theatre this fall. Nov. 2. $25+. Majestic Theatre, 4140 Woodward Ave., Detroit; majesticdetroit.com.
Average White Band
Fans of soul, funk, and jazz music are in for a treat when this prolific Scottish group stops in Detroit to perform selections from its decades-long career. The band is best known for its ubiquitous 1974 instrumental single “Pick Up the Pieces,” but even its lesser-known tracks have been sampled by chart-topping musicians, including Beastie Boys, Public Enemy, TLC, and Ice Cube. Nov. 3. $30+. Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts, 350 Madison St., Detroit; musichall.org.
Lil Yachty
After striking gold when his single “One Night” appeared in a viral video in 2015, this Atlanta-based rapper, singer, and songwriter has dabbled in an array of genres, including hip-hop, trap, and pop rap. His fifth and most recent studio album, Let’s Start Here, found the artist ditching his signature hip-hop sound in favor of a new, psychedelic rock-influenced style. Catch the eclectic artist live when he stops at The Fillmore during his Field Trip tour. Nov. 5. $59+. The Fillmore, 2115 Woodward Ave., Detroit; livenation.com.
Victor Wooten and the Wooten Brothers
As one of the founders of Grammy Award-winning supergroup Béla Fleck and the Flecktones, bassist and songwriter Victor Wooten established himself as a true innovator in the world of jazz music. Inspired by virtuosos like James Brown, Prince, and Funkadelic, Wooten creates jaw-dropping bass effects in real time while his brothers Joseph, Roy, and Regi accompany him. Nov. 6. $45. The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor; theark.org.
Kesha
The American singer and songwriter will promote her newest album, Gag Order, when she heads out on a 20-date North American tour this fall. While she originally gained fame with upbeat, party-ready singles like “Timber” and “Right Round,” Kesha has since experimented with a variety of musical styles, including rock and rap. Ten of her tracks have reached the top 10 spots on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart, including “Tik Tok,” which remains one of the best-selling digital singles in history. Nov. 7. $49+. Masonic Temple Theatre, 500 Temple St., Detroit; axs.com.
Depeche Mode
Named the 10th greatest dance club artist of all time by Billboard, this profoundly influential English electronic band has sold more than 100 million records over the course of its 43-year-long career. Hear the ’80s and ’90s hits that made the band famous — like “Just Can’t Get Enough” and “Personal Jesus” — along with rarities, surprises, and mate-rial from the band’s newest album, Memento Mori, which was released earlier this year. Nov. 8. $77+. Little Caesars Arena, 2645 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313presents.com.
Mrs. Doubtfire
Fans of the beloved 1993 comedy will enjoy this new musical take on the story of a father who goes undercover as a Scottish nanny in order to spend time with his kids after a divorce. Directed by four-time Tony Award winner Jerry Zaks, the show has been lauded equally for its big laughs and big heart. Nov. 14-26. $54+. Fisher Theatre, 3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit; broadwayindetroit.com.
Gary Owen
After breaking out on BET’s stand-up showcase, ComicView, in the late ’90s, this Cincinnati-born comedian and actor has appeared in dozens of comedic TV shows and films, including Daddy Day Care, Little Man, Ride Along, and College. He’s best known for his hilarious takes on race and stereotypes, drawing heavily from his own lived experience in an interracial marriage. Nov. 16. $45+. Sound Board at MotorCity Casino Hotel, 2901 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 313presents.com.
Phoebe Robinson
A prolific comedic writer, Robinson has worked as a contributor for Glamour magazine, MTV’s Girl Code, and Comedy Central’s Broad City. She’s authored three New York Times bestselling books, hosted two podcasts, and appeared on numerous television shows, including NBC’s Last Comic Standing, Late Night with Seth Meyers, and Last Call with Carson Daly. Nov. 17. $35+. Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. 4th St., Royal Oak; royaloakmusictheatre.com.
Joe Bonamassa
Regarded as one of the world’s best blues guitarists, Bonamassa got his first taste of fame at just 12 years old when he opened for B.B. King. He went on to record 17 solo albums (including Blues Deluxe, Vol. 2, to be released Oct. 6), 18 live albums, and a slew of collaborations with notable artists including Beth Hart and Black Country Communion. The accomplished singer-songwriter will play selections from his latest studio album, 2021’s Time Clocks, when his band heads out on the road this fall. Nov. 18. $49+. Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313presents.com.
Liz Phair
To celebrate 30 years since the release of her acclaimed debut album, Exile in Guyville, singer-songwriter Liz Phair will play the record live in its entirety on her upcoming Guyville tour. Landing on multiple “best of” lists, including Rolling Stone’s list of the greatest albums of all time, Exile in Guyville put Phair on the map — she has since released six studio albums and sold more than 3 million records worldwide. The show includes a supporting performance by indie rock artist Blondshell. Nov. 19. $39+. Masonic Cathedral Theatre, 500 Temple St., Detroit; axs.com.
Fortune Feimster
Following her television debut on NBC’s Last Comic Standing in 2010, this comedian and actress landed roles in dozens of small-screen comedies, including The Simpsons, The Mindy Project, and 2 Broke Girls. She currently lends her voice to the character Olive on the Max animated series Velma. Nov. 25. $35+. Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. 4th St., Royal Oak; royaloakmusictheatre.com.
This story is from the September 2023 issue of Hour Detroit magazine. Read more in our digital edition. Plus, find even more things to do in Metro Detroit at HourDetroit.com.