Literature
Feb 1

Erik Larson, known for his grand nonfiction stories, is coming to the Pittsburgh Speakers Series for an intimate conversation. The author of New York Times bestsellers such as “The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz” and “The Devil in the White City” will share stories of his life, work and inspiration.

Heinz Hall
pittsburghsymphony.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ARTIST

Dance
Feb. 1-2

A Step Show is typically seen on a college campus, performed by Black fraternity and sorority members. Those may have been the circumstances that popularized the polyrhythmic dance form, but its roots start with traditional West and Southern African dance. Step Afrika!, the first professional company dedicated to the tradition of stepping, will bring a show full of dance, songs, storytelling and audience participation. Byham Theater
trustarts.org

Literature
Feb. 2

Author Natasha Anastasia Tarpley creates images and stories meant to speak to the hearts of children. For this free family event, Tarpley will discuss her new children’s picture book series featuring Keyana, the protagonist of her bestselling title “I Love My Hair!” Her story speaks to young Black girls on the importance of self-love and self-acceptance.

Carnegie Library Lecture Hall
 pittsburghlectures.org

Theater
Feb. 3-19 

In keeping with their mission to bring high-quality cultural events reflecting the Black experience, New Horizon Theater is presenting Don Wilson Glenn’s “American Menu.” The story of five Black kitchen workers at a segregated lunch counter takes place during the Civil Rights Movement as they struggle to make sense of a young boy’s death while reflecting on their own place in society.

New Horizon Theater
newhorizontheater.org

PHOTO BY DUANE RIEDER

Dance
Feb. 10-12

The theatrical production of “Dracula” by Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre is coming to the Benedum Center to make your Valentine’s Day weekend a bit bloody. Expect the familiar gothic tale, recommended for ages 14 and older, to pull you in with a dramatic score and magnificent costumes.

Benedum Center
pbt.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ARTIST

Music
Feb. 17 

Six of the most acclaimed modern jazz musicians hail from all over the world to form the supergroup Artemis. The current touring band includes pianist and musical director Renee Rosnes, trumpeter Ingrid Jensen, tenor saxophonist Nicole Glover, alto saxophonist-flutist Alexa Tarantino, bassist Noriko Ueda and drummer Allison Miller. They’ll join their individual sounds to deliver original music as well as visionary arrangements to well-known classics at Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild.

mcgjazz.org

Music
Feb. 21

African musical traditions melded with the Spanish popular music of the 19th century gave birth to the sound known as Afro-Peruvian music. The Gabriel Alegria Afro-Peruvian Sextet presents Afro-Peruvian Jazz Music complete with the trinity of instrumentation that makes the sound so special: a cajón, a cajita and a quijada, or donkey’s jawbone. In this standing-room-only venue, you’ll hear and feel this unique brand of Latin jazz.

Club Cafe
clubcafelive.com

PHOTO BY TOM CALTABIANO

Comedy
Feb. 28

Catch Kevin James, the star of “Paul Blart: Mall Cop” and “Grown Ups,” live on stage at Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall. James shares relatable observations on everyday life, bizarre fan interactions and what it’s like being a husband and father of four.

Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall
librarymusichall.com