518 Bites & Sights

Kirill Gerstein
2026-01-24 19:30 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, 30 Second Street, Troy, NY, 12180, United States
Program:
Liszt: Three Petrarch Sonnets 19’
Liszt: Après une lecture de Dante: Fantasia quasi Sonata, S. 161 No. 7 18’
—
Brahms: Scherzo in E-flat minor, Op.4 10’
Brahms: Piano Sonata No. 3 in F minor, Op. 5 36’

Kirill Gerstein Bio:
Fascination for musical discovery combined with boundless curiosity, imagination, and virtuosity have established Kirill Gerstein as one of today’s most prolific and compelling performers. Gerstein is a searching artist. As a pianist, curator, educator, musical leader, and artistic collaborator, his exploration of resonant themes across a vast spectrum of repertoire – from Baroque suites and Classical concerti to contemporary creations, jazz, and cabaret – has nourished relationships with many of the world’s leading orchestras, conductors, instrumentalists, singers, composers, festivals, recording labels, and media platforms.
Highlights of the past season include Gerstein’s Carnegie Hall/Stern Auditorium solo recital debut, marking Ferruccio Busoni’s centenary with performances of his Piano Concerto with the Berliner Philharmoniker, the Orchestre National de France, the BBC Symphony Orchestra, and the Gulbenkian Orchestra in Lisbon; Gershwin with the Staatskapelle Dresden on ZDF German national television’s traditional New Year’s eve gala broadcast; the closing concert of the Musikfest Berlin performing Messiaen’s From the Canyons to the Stars with Sir Simon Rattle; the Berg Kammerkonzert with Ilya Gringolts, Heinz Holliger and Chamber Orchestra of Europe; Rachmaninov’s 3rd Piano Concerto with Santtu-Matias Rouvali and the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra; returns to Japan and Korea performing Brahms 2nd Piano Concerto; engagements with the orchestras of St. Louis, San Francisco, Pittsburgh and Atlanta; a release on the ECM label of Chick Corea’s The Visitors with legendary vibraphonist, Gary Burton; a poignantly timely program with the Wiener Symphoniker pairing Schoenberg’s Ode to Napoleon with Beethoven’s Emperor concerto followed by a satirical encore by Hanns Eisler; and an interdisciplinary project with the Ruhr Piano Festival uniting school children, renowned choreographers, scholars and world music authorities around the music of Armenian priest, musicologist, and composer, Vardapet Komitas.
Gerstein was Artist-in-Residence with the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra in 2023-24, Spotlight Artist with the London Symphony Orchestra, Resident Artist at the Festival Aix-en-Provence, and curated a three-part “Busoni and his World” concert series at London’s Wigmore Hall. In 2023, he released an acclaimed album with the Berliner Philharmoniker and Kirill Petrenko celebrating Rachmaninov’s 150th anniversary and performed Berlin cabaret songs of the 1920s with iconic performance artist and composer, HK Gruber. Gerstein also regularly play-conducts programs, most recently the Chamber Orchestra of Europe (Beethoven 4), the Orchestre de Chambre de Paris (a program of Mozart, Salieri and Beethoven Piano Concerti), the Budapest Festival Orchestra (Rhapsody in Blue) and the Czech Philharmonic (Beethoven 1).
Media projects, broadcasts, and digital innovation represent an integral part of Gerstein’s creativity. He has recorded for Platoon/Apple Music, myrios, Deutsche Grammophon, DECCA, Berliner Philharmoniker Recordings, with performances filmed by Unitel, Accentus Music, and EuroArts, broadcast on ORF, BBC, ARTE, and Marquee TV, and streamed on medici.tv and STAGE+. Gerstein’s “Music in Time of War”, pairing late piano works by Claude Debussy with pieces by Vardapet Komitas earned him a 2025 special Opus Klassik Award for exceptional curation. Expanding the traditional album concept, the recording is integrated into a hardcover book containing a wealth of documentary images and original scholarship.
Gerstein’s world première recording of Thomas Adès’ Concerto for Piano and Orchestra with the Boston Symphony conducted by the composer was nominated for three Grammys and received the 2020 Gramophone Award. His recording of Adès’ The Tempest Suite, with violinist Christian Tetzlaff, was released on the Platoon label in 2025. Other noteworthy Gerstein albums include Strauss’s Enoch Arden with the great Swiss actor, Bruno Ganz (Wings of Desire, The Downfall); Tchaikovsky’s complete Piano Concertos (including the 1st Concerto in the composer’s original urtext version) with Semyon Bychkov and the Czech Philharmonic; The Gershwin Moment with the St. Louis Symphony and David Robertson, including special appearances from American singer-songwriter Storm Large and Gary Burton; and Mozart Four-Hand Piano Sonatas with Ferenc Rados.
A true champion of music of our time, Gerstein has commissioned and premièred new works by Timo Andres, Chick Corea, Alexander Goehr, Oliver Knussen and Brad Mehldau, among others. Since giving the world première of Thomas Adès’ Concerto Piano and Orchestra in 2019, Gerstein has performed the work over 60 times, with 20 different orchestras on three continents. Gerstein also recently recorded Thomas Larcher’s Piano Concerto with the Bergen Philharmonic and Ed Gardner for ECM. His premiere performances of Francisco Coll’s Two Waltzes Toward Civilization at Carnegie Hall will be followed by the creation of Coll’s new Piano Concerto with Sir Simon Rattle and the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra in 2026.
Gerstein is dedicated to learning. He is currently Professor of Piano at Berlin’s Hanns Eisler Hochschule and on the faculty of Kronberg Academy. At Kronberg Academy, his series of free online seminars featuring conversations with the 21st Century’s leading artistic minds has to date reached an audience of over 150,000 viewers. His guests have included Ai Weiwei, Brad Melhdau, Thomas Adès, Iván Fischer, Alex Ross, Matthew Aucoin, Kirill Serebrennikov, Elizabeth Wilson, Simon & Gerard McBurney, Robert Levin, Reinhard Goebel, Simon Callow, Emma Smith, Deborah Borda, Sir Antonio Pappano, and the late Kaija Saariaho. Gerstein also coaches at the Verbier Festival Academy and at IMS Prussia Cove.
Born in 1979 in Voronezh, Russia, Gerstein attended one of the country’s special music schools for gifted children and taught himself to play jazz at home by listening to his parents’ record collection. Following a chance encounter with Gary Burton in St. Petersburg when he was 14, he was invited as the youngest student to study at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. At the age of 16, Gerstein completed his undergraduate and graduate degrees at New York’s Manhattan School of Music, followed by further studies with Dmitri Bashkirov in Madrid and Ferenc Rados in Budapest. First Prize winner at the 10th Arthur Rubinstein Competition, in 2010, Gerstein received the prestigious Gilmore Artist Award, as well as an Avery Fisher Career Grant. He was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Musical Arts from the Manhattan School of Music in 2021.

The Taylor Party: Taylor Swift Night
2026-01-24 21:00 - 23:00 | Empire Live, 93 North Pearl St, Albany, NY, 12207, United States

Schenectady-Saratoga Symphony Orchestra – Concert II: The Game is Afoot
2026-01-25 15:00 - 17:00 | Universal Preservation Hall, 25 Washington St, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Step into the world of mystery and deduction with “221B: A Sherlock Holmes Opera,” inspired by the legendary detective stories of Arthur Conan Doyle. The opera is composed by SSSO Conductor and Artistic Director Glen Cortese, with the libretto by Brian Clay Luedloff. This thrilling musical experience brings the intrigue of Baker Street to life through a gripping operatic mystery.
Don’t miss the pre-concert talk with Artistic Director/Conductor Glen Cortese at 2 p.m. at UPH! It’s an excellent way to learn more about the music and an opportunity to ask questions about the performance. All are invited to attend.
Tickets are $17–$24. Children under 18 are free when accompanied by a ticketed adult.
Run time: 2 hours
Role and Artist:
Abigail Hunt — Brittany Palmer
John Watson — Joseph Han
Sherlock Holmes — Casey Gray
Inspector Lestrade — Andrew Boisvert
Mrs. Hudson — Ann Marie Adamick
Irene Adler — Sylvia Stoner
Young Watson — Andrew Burger
James Moriarty — TBD
View all bios here.

Adam Ray Who Is Me Tour
2026-01-25 19:30 - 21:30 | Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, 30 Second Street, Troy, NY, 12180, United States
Please note this show is 18+

Adam Ray is a seasoned comedian and actor hailing from Seattle, renowned for his versatile performances across television, film, and digital platforms. His extensive acting credits include roles in critically acclaimed shows and movies such as Curb Your Enthusiasm, The Barbie Movie, MadTV, Hacks, Pam & Tommy, and The Heat, among many others.
In addition to his prolific work in traditional media, Adam has made significant strides in the digital space and live performances. His appearances on popular podcasts like Kill Tony, Bad Friends, and Two Bears, One Cave have garnered millions of views, with some episodes ranking among the most-watched in the shows’ histories.
Adam’s talent for impressions and character work shines through his portrayals of iconic figures like Joe Biden, Dr. Phil, and original characters such as Elaine, and Jeremy. These performances have not only captivated audiences but also contributed to the rapid growth of his YouTube and social channels, where his content continues to reach an ever-expanding audience. His recent comedy special, Like and Subscribe, has further solidified his status as a must-watch performer.

Themed Trivia
2026-01-27 18:00 - 20:00 | Nine Pin Ciderworks, 929 Broadway, Albany, NY, 12207, United States
Join us for themed trivia night every fourth Tuesday of the month! Sign-ups start at 6:00 pm and trivia begins promptly at 6:30 pm.
Each month will have a different theme – come out and test your knowledge on your favorite topics! Prizes include cider flights and other great Nine Pin items.

Bingo Night
2026-01-28 18:00 - 20:00 | Wolf Hollow Brewing Company, 6882 Amsterdam Rd, Schenectady, NY, 12302, United States
Join us for Bingo Night the final Wednesday of each month! Free to play and all materials are provided. Dinner service by Cruet Pizza.

Lettuce - Cook World Tour
2026-01-28 20:00 - 22:00 | Empire Live, 93 North Pearl St, Albany, NY, 12207, United States

In The Next Room or the vibrator play
2026-01-30 00:00 - 2026-02-08 23:59 | Schenectady Civic Players, 12 S. Church St, Schenectady, NY, 12305, United States

Corey Holcomb
2026-01-30 19:00 - 21:00 | FunnyBone Albany, 1 Crossgates Mall Rd, Albany, NY, 12203, United States
Ticket Policy:
The Funny Bone has a full bar and a dinner menu is available through your server when you are seated in the showroom!
Seating is first come, first served. We seat the room from front to back and guests will be seated accordingly based on arrival time.
Most of our tables seat 4 people. You may be seated with a separate party of guests at the same table.
If you wish to sit with another party, please arrive and enter the showroom together.
All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges. Sales tax and service fees are included in the ticket price.
This event is 21+ and all guests will need valid ID to enter.

About the Artist:
Corey’s comedy genius transcends class and racial divides. Corey’s humor will tickle your funny bone. People all over the world can relate to the drama of trying to make a relationship work. According to Corey, a “hunter” (man) being captured by his “prey” (woman) makes for the best comedy ever.
Corey offers plenty of advice on how men who have been the victim of a “hostile takeover” by the female in the relationship can take back control. You can believe there is no counselor on the planet who offers the kind of relationship advice and remedies Corey dispenses from the stage. Corey Holcomb’s comedy set is both an auditory and visual experience. His facial gestures alone can make an audience burst with laughter. “I spend a lot of time practicing my stage faces because I need to be able to convey care and concern while I criticize.” Although Corey has a long and diverse resume of successes, he remains humble and approachable.
Corey has performed on Jay Leno’s “Tonight Show,” taken top honors at the Miller Genuine Draft Comedy Search, Budweiser Comedy Competition, Chicago Home Jam, and Laffapalooza. He has appeared at the Montreal Just for Laughs Festival and the Chicago Comedy Festival.
Corey’s film and television credits include the films “Think Like A Man Too,” “Wedding Ringer,” independent film “Who’s Watching The Kids “Adult Swim’s “Black Jesus,” MTV2’s “Wild ‘N Out,” MTV’s “Wild ‘N Out,” NBC’s “Last Comic Standing,” 20th Century Fox’s “Like Mike,” a recurring role on UPN’s “Half & Half,” NBC’s “The Tonight Show,” BET’s “Comic View,” Fox’s “Mad TV,” Comedy Central’s “Premium Blend,” HBO’s “Def Comedy Jam,” “It’s Showtime at the Apollo,” Showtime’s “Shaq’s All Star Comedy Jam,” Tyler Perry’s “House of Pain,” TV Ones “Rickey Smiley Show,” and plays recurring character Robert Tubbs on Fox’s “The Cleveland Show.” He was also featured in Hip-Hop artist’s Kendrick Lamar’s music video “These Walls.”
He has appeared in four comedy specials of his own, Corey Holcomb: “The Problem Is You,” Comedy Central Presents: “Corey Holcomb,” Corey Holcomb: “Your Way Ain’t Working,” and Corey Holcomb: “The Book of Coreythians.”
Corey currently tours the country performing standup & his Comedy/R&B songs. He also hosts his own podcast, The Corey Holcomb 5150 Show, which began on The Foxxhole but later moved to YouTube.

Shit-faced Shakespeare®: HAMLET
2026-01-30 19:30 - 21:30 | Universal Preservation Hall, 25 Washington St, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
“Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.”
Is it the murder of a king? A hasty incestuous marriage? A prince bent on revenge? Or maybe just a gassy Polonius full of beer! Shakespeare’s greatest work gets the full boozy treatment as we proudly present Shit-faced Shakespeare®: Hamlet.
This timeless examination of the nature of humanity is performed in under 2 hours, so “To be or not to be” gets answered and you shan’t need a nap! Grab a cocktail and enjoy as we prove that though this be madness, yet there is method in ‘t- helped with a bit of wine!
TRIGGER/ HEALTH WARNING
This show features murder, treason, war, violence (personal, sexual, and national), suicide, regicide, incest, and blasphemy – and that is just the Shakespeare! Our drinker has been known to contribute profanity, and the occasionally bare butt-cheek. If any of this puts you off, maybe another show is more your speed.
Warning: this show does engage flashing lights and loud noises. Also, for those choosing to sit close to the stage – there is the possibility of splashing beer and being a part of the show.
“Wherever I looked I saw hands over mouths and bodies bent over, shrieking with laughter.” – West End Wilma (five stars)
“Go because you enjoy Shakespeare, go because you love intoxicated revelry, or go for the magical meeting of the two.” – Broadway Baby (five stars)
Get the GROUP ADVANTAGE! Gather your group of 10 or more and receive 10% off your tickets for qualifying shows. Contact Group Sales at (518) 382-3884 ext. 139 for more information today!

Comedy After Dark Liam Nelson
2026-01-30 20:00 - 22:00 | The Park Theater, 4 Park Street, Glens Falls, 12801, United States
Liam Nelson is a New York City-based comedian hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, with a towering presence. Standing an impressive 7 feet tall and living with Marfan Syndrome, Liam offers a unique perspective on life as a “walking spectacle.” At just 25 years old, he weaves sharp, hilarious commentary on navigating the world as a disabled young adult with stories that are equal parts outrageous and deeply relatable.
Liam has performed all over the country, sharing stages with comedy heavyweights like Sam Morril, Dusty Slay, Gianmarco Soresi, Kate Willett, and more. His talent has earned him a spot at the Netflix Is A Joke festival and the opportunity to record his debut Dry Bar Comedy Special. Whether he’s riffing on life’s absurdities or offering an unflinching look at his own journey, Liam’s comedy is as unforgettable as he is.

Get the Led Out
2026-01-30 20:00 - 22:30 | Proctors, 432 State St, Schenectady, NY, 12305, United States
From the bombastic and epic, to the folky and mystical, Get The Led Out (GTLO) have captured the essence of the recorded music of Led Zeppelin and brought it to the concert stage. The Philadelphia-based group consists of six veteran musicians intent on delivering Led Zeppelin live, like you’ve never heard before.
Utilizing the multi-instrumentalists at their disposal, GTLO re-create the songs in all their depth and glory with the studio overdubs that Zeppelin themselves never performed. When you hear three guitars on the album…GTLO delivers three guitarists on stage. No wigs or fake English accents, GTLO brings what the audience wants…a high energy Zeppelin concert with an honest, heart-thumping intensity.
Dubbed by the media as “The American Led Zeppelin,” Get The Led Out offers a strong focus on the early years. They also touch on the deeper cuts that were seldom, if ever heard in concert. GTLO also include a special “acoustic set” with Zep favorites such as “Tangerine” and “Hey Hey What Can I Do.” GTLO has amassed a strong national touring history, having performed at major club and PAC venues across the country. GTLO’s approach to their performance of this hallowed catalog is not unlike a classical performance. “Led Zeppelin are sort of the classical composers of the rock era,” says lead vocalist Paul Sinclair. “I believe 100 years from now they will be looked at as the Bach or Beethoven of our time. As cliché as it sounds, their music is timeless.”
A GTLO concert mimics the “light and shade” that are the embodiment of “The Mighty Zep.” Whether it’s the passion and fury with which they deliver the blues-soaked, groove-driven rock anthems, it’s their attention to detail and nuance that makes a Get The Led Out performance a truly awe-inspiring event!

Rascal Flatts
2026-01-31 19:00 - 22:00 | MVP Arena, 51 S Pearl St, Albany, NY, 12207, United States
Rascal Flatts return to MVP Arena with the Life Is A Highway Tour on Saturday, January 31 with special guests Chris Lane & Lauren Alaina!

Justin Furstenfeld
2026-01-31 20:00 - 22:00 | Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, 30 Second Street, Troy, NY, 12180, United States
Justin Furstenfeld is the creative force behind Blue October, a multi-platinum band that has sold millions of albums and singles worldwide and garnered over a billion streams. Known for his poetic storytelling and emotional depth, Furstenfeld has written and recorded over 18 Top 40 hits, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated global following. Over the course of his career, he has recorded 16 studio albums: 13 with Blue October, 2 solo, and 1 with Harvard of the South, as well as two concert films, Argue With A Tree and Things We Do At Night and a documentary; Get Back Up. From the beginning, Furstenfeld set Blue October apart with their emotionally raw and introspective sound. Initially drawing inspiration from bands like The Cure and Radiohead, he wove deeply personal themes of love, loss, addiction, and redemption into his songwriting, creating anthemic yet intimate tracks that fans describe as “shimmering rock songs with haunting lyrics.” His live performances are often described as arm hair-raising, as they channel unfiltered emotion and forge an unparalleled connection with audiences. Furstenfeld’s life story is one of transformation. Once grappling with addiction and mental health struggles, he has emerged as a vocal advocate for sobriety and emotional well-being. His journey is chronicled in the acclaimed 2020 documentary Get Back Up, which provides an unflinching look at his struggles and triumphs. Through honesty and vulnerability, Furstenfeld has inspired countless fans by proving that change is not only possible but life changing. For the past 15 years, Furstenfeld’s one-man shows, An Open Book: I Laugh At Myself, have been celebrated for their transformative, heartfelt experiences. These performances combine acoustic renditions with deeply personal storytelling, offering fans an immersive look into his music and life. His reality-focused, unfiltered writing addresses the darker corners of life while finding hope and beauty, breaking down barriers between artist and audience. His new one-man show, I Laugh At Myself, focuses on his continuing journey from 2013 to the present, showcasing his ongoing transformation and dedication to becoming the best version of himself each day. In 2024, Furstenfeld expanded his artistic expression by launching his lifestyle brand, Furstenfeld, and personally crafting four unique parfums. Most recently, releasing a fifth parfum, Into The Ocean. Each fragrance embodies his signature emotional depth and storytelling, offering a sensory experience that mirrors the raw power of his music. The brand, described as “a symphony for the senses,” is available at http://www.furstenfeld.com, inviting fans to step into an evocative new world that blends music and perfumery. In addition to his music and entrepreneurial pursuits, Furstenfeld is an accomplished author. His first book, Crazy Making, was published in 2009, and his second, I Laugh At Myself, released in Furstenfeld Bio – Sept. 2025 March 2025. Justin Furstenfeld’s journey is a testament to the enduring impact of authenticity, creativity, and his relentless dedication to personal and artistic growth.
Studio Albums The Answers (1998) Consent to Treatment (2000) History for Sale (2003) Foiled (2006) Approaching Normal (2009) Any Man in America (2011) Sway (2013) Home (2016) Open Book (2016) (Justin Furstenfeld Solo Album) I Hope You’re Happy (2018) Open Book Winter Album (2019) (Justin Furstenfeld Solo Album) This Is What I Live For (2020) Spinning the Truth Around (Part I) (2022) Spinning the Truth Around (Part II) (2023) Happy Birthday (2024)

The Daily Gazette Wedding Show
2026-02-01 11:00 - 15:00 | Saratoga Springs City Center, 522 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
*Brides & Grooms – you will be entered into the drawing for the $1,000 gift certificate that you can use at any of the Exhibitors at the show!! Click here for Pre-Registration

Attention Brides and Grooms…bring along the entire Bridal Party to The Saratoga City Center for The Daily Gazette’s Premier Wedding Show.
Food Sampling * Beer Sampling * Wine Sampling * Cake Sampling
All while you have an opportunity to meet with the professionals you need for your Special Day.

Left To Suffer
2026-02-01 19:00 - 21:30 | Empire Live, 93 North Pearl St, Albany, NY, 12207, United States

Los Lobos
2026-02-01 19:30 - 21:30 | Universal Preservation Hall, 25 Washington St, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
It’s a matter of time. 50 years to be exact. And in that time, Los Lobos created an unprecedented body of work, a legacy of greatness. The numbers are staggering: 100+ gigs a year for five decades running, crossing millions of miles to rock millions of fans. And that’s just at the live shows. In between they’ve recorded 17 studio albums, 7 live LPs, 3 compilations, 2 EPs, 2 DVDs, and contributed 40+ guest appearances on their friends’ recordings—all garnering 4 Grammys, an Austin City Limits Hall of Fame induction, the ALMA Ritchie Valens Pioneer Award, NEA and Hispanic Heritage Foundation Honors, Congressional recognitions, plus countless “Keys to the City” and “Los Lobos Day” celebrations. And those are just a few of the highlights. Beyond all the hoopla and applause (and the source of it all, really) is the tremendous heart. Rather, hearts. Cinco corazones.
Five blood brothers who have dedicated their off-stage time to helping others, working for peace and justice, penning some of the most literate and important music of their time, transforming the hard cries from the East L.A. barrio into songs of hope, tales of common folk finding ways to endure. The young wolves were weaned on late-night radio’s soul, R&B, and doo-wop. We were cured through the African-American currents of the blues, jazz, and rock ‘n’ roll—an amalgam. As proud Chicanos, their songs have always glistened with the distillation from their Mexican and Latin American roots— nourished by Norteña and rancheras, buoyed by bolero and cumbias, soaring on the rhythms of son huasteco and son jarocho. Los Lobos have helped spread the rich diversity of cultures across every continent, throughout the global community. Children in Antwerp are now familiar with Aztlán. Residents of Luxor and Ghana are crooning Lalo Guerrero. People from Laos and Bulgaria are belting “La Bamba”—all thanks to The Wolves as cultural ambassadors.
Talk about a living legacy. Talk about a productive half-century. And in the true rebel spirit, they did it all on their own terms, against formula. For the ages. To our delight. Quite simply, they are one of the tightest, one of the best, one of the most prolific bands ever. And, amazingly, with the original founding members as the pack the entire time. Unprecedented. As their liner notes put it, quite simply: “Los Lobos still are David Hidalgo, Louie Pérez, Jr., Cesar Rosas, Conrad Lozano, Steve Berlin.”

Bert Kreischer
2026-02-05 19:30 - 21:30 | Palace Theatre, 19 Clinton Ave, Albany, NY, 12207, United States
Bert Kreischer’s career has evolved from Rolling Stone’s infamous “Number One Partier in the Nation” to one of the top-grossing stand-up comedians in the world—and a powerhouse entrepreneur, content creator, and entertainment brand. Named by Forbes as “one of the best storytellers of his generation,” Kreischer has parlayed his signature comedy and authenticity into a dynamic media empire. In 2024, he landed the #6 highest-grossing comedy tour worldwide—despite performing only six months out of the year.
His sixth Netflix special, Lucky, filmed in his hometown of Tampa, FL, sold out all six shows within 24 hours of the on-sale and premiered in Netflix’s Top 10 Most Watched TV Shows in March 2025.
Kreischer’s 2023 special Razzle Dazzle reached over 8.3 million views in its debut week, continuing the success of his previous specials: Hey Big Boy, Secret Time, The Machine, and Comfortably Dumb.

Coffee & Community
2026-02-06 15:00 - 17:00 | Arthur’s, 35 North Ferry St., Schenectady, NY, 12305, United States
On the first Friday of every month, Arthur’s will be reserving a space for the 518 Asian Alliance to connect with members of the local community. All are welcome to join!

First Friday
2026-02-06 17:00 - 19:00 | Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY, 12210, United States
Albany Institute of History & Art holds extended hours for the city of Albany’s popular First Friday program! Enjoy free gallery admission to visit our current exhibitions.

Exhibition Opening Reception: “Threads of Liberty: Schenectady and the American Revolution”
2026-02-06 18:00 - 19:30 | Schenectady County Historical Society Museum and Library, 32 Washington Ave, Schenectady, NY, 12305, United States
Part of SCHS’ America at 250 project, this exhibition explores the story of Schenectady and Schenectadians during the American Revolution, weaving together different “threads” of the Revolutionary War-era. See the rare and significant 1771 Liberty Flag, carried by the Schenectady Minute Men during the Revolutionary War, alongside artifacts and documents that explore how Schenectadians contributed to and were shaped by the birth of the United States.

Yonder Mountain String Band
2026-02-06 20:00 - 22:00 | Universal Preservation Hall, 25 Washington St, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND RETURNS TO THE GREAT HALL!
Yonder Mountain String Band, a driving force in roots music for nearly three decades and a key player in the progressive jamgrass movement, kicks off a new chapter with “Nowhere Next.” Featuring original songs inspired by lived experiences, people, and places that have shaped them, the album is a mix of bluegrass, rock, and country with soulful, funky grooves. Their 11th studio album follows the Grammy-nominated Get Yourself Outside (2022), adding depth and momentum to Yonder’s rich musical legacy.
“Nowhere Next” showcases the musical talents and collaborative writing efforts of founding members Adam Aijala (guitar, vocals), Dave Johnston (banjo, vocals), and Ben Kaufmann (bass, vocals), alongside multi-instrumentalist Nick Piccininni (mandolin, banjo, fiddle, vocals), a five-year veteran whose contributions as a singer and instrumentalist shine throughout the record. Together, they co-wrote nine of the eleven tracks, artfully blending their unique perspectives and vocal ranges to give each song its own distinct character. Coleman Smith (fiddle) makes his studio debut, adding a vibrant layer that complements the band’s overall dynamic. Grammy-winning Dobro legend Jerry Douglas brings his signature style to three standout tracks: “Here I Go,” “Wasting Time,” and “Didn’t Go Wrong.”
Balancing nostalgia and innovation, “Nowhere Next” captures the essence of Yonder’s journey, transitioning from reflective storytelling to adventurous, genre-defying excursions. Tracks like “Leave the Midwest,” “Cruisin’,” and “The Truth Fits” highlights their gift for narrative, while “Nowhere Next,” “Here I Go,” and “Wasting Time” reveal their capacity for the unexpected. “Come See Me,” “Second Hand Smoke,” and “Outlaw” nod to tradition with a touch of country that complements the band’s signature style. The album also pays homage to Yonder’s storied past, breathing new life into two classics from the Yonder catalog, “River” and “Didn’t Go Wrong”, reaching back over two decades.
Produced by Yonder Mountain String Band, “Nowhere Next” brings together the unique voices and visions of each member, where their contributions resonate with a shared openness. This collective synergy forges a powerful bond within the band, making each track feel both grounded and alive with their connection. Edgy, heartfelt, and full of surprises, “Nowhere Next” stands out as one of Yonder’s most compelling albums yet, inviting listeners to experience the band at their most vibrant and unrestrained.

Saratoga Chowderfest 2026
2026-02-07 00:00 - 23:59 | Downtown Saratoga, Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
​Saratoga County’s top restaurants serving 4 oz. samples of chowder for just $2—vote for your favorite to win!
Check individual participants to learn who is hosting live music for Chowderfest!
Family-friendly activities scattered throughout downtown Saratoga, including Saratoga Springs City Center and the Heritage Area Visitors Center!

Check out last year’s Chowderfest!

The Capital Region Home Show
2026-02-07 00:00 - 2026-02-08 23:59 | Albany Capital Center, 55 Eagle St, Albany, NY, 12207, United States
At the Home Show, our goal is simple—to inspire, motivate, and excite attendees for their next home improvement project, whether it’s a small renovation or a complete remodel.

The show features a wide variety of home improvement professionals in a fun, interactive environment. Visitors can meet, compare, and connect with expert exhibitors, leaving inspired and confident to start planning. Most importantly, we want guests to be excited about all the possibilities for their homes.

Show Date: February 7, 2026

Show Time: 10 am – 8 pm

Show Date: February 8, 2026

Show Time: 10 am – 5 pm

Get Your Free Passes Today or $10 at the Door https://www.capitalregionhomeshow.com/Free-Pass

Interested in Exhibiting? https://www.capitalregionhomeshow.com/info-for-exhibitors

The Knights
2026-02-07 19:30 - 21:30 | Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, 30 Second Street, Troy, NY, 12180, United States
Program:
JACOBSEN Beloved, Do Not Let Me Be Discouraged
GOLIJOV Ever Yours
-intermission-
MENDELSSOHN Octet in E-flat Major, Op. 20

The Knights

Eric Jacobsen, Artistic Director and Conductor
Colin Jacobsen, Artistic Director

Biography:
The Knights are a collective of adventurous musicians dedicated to transforming the orchestral experience and eliminating barriers between audiences and music. Driven by an open-minded spirit of camaraderie and exploration, they inspire listeners with vibrant programs rooted in the classical tradition and passion for artistic discovery. The Knights evolved from late-night chamber music reading parties with friends at the home of violinist Colin Jacobsen and cellist Eric Jacobsen. The Jacobsen brothers together serve as artistic directors of The Knights, with Eric Jacobsen as conductor.
Proud to be known as “one of Brooklyn’s sterling cultural products… known far beyond the borough for their relaxed virtuosity and expansive repertory” (The New Yorker), the orchestra has toured extensively across the United States and Europe since their founding in 2007. The Knights are celebrated globally, appearing across the world’s most prestigious stages, including those at Tanglewood Music Center, Ravinia Music Festival, the Kennedy Center, the Vienna Musikverein, and Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie. The orchestra has collaborated with many renowned soloists including Yo-Yo Ma, Dawn Upshaw, Béla Fleck, and Gil Shaham.
After a whirlwind eleven-stop European tour with violinist Ray Chen, The Knights look forward to making music closer to home this summer. Artistic collaborators in the 2022-23 season include 2022 GRAMMY-winning countertenor Anthony Roth Costanzo, violinist Ray Chen, and genre-shattering pianist/composer Aaron Diehl, with whom The Knights will release an album of Mary Lou Williams’ Zodiac Suite in 2023. For the latest on our season and a complete list of artistic partners and collaborative projects, please visit our website: theknightsnyc.com.
The Knights are proud to share a three-concert series presented by Carnegie Hall for the upcoming 2023-24 season. Programs include new works commissioned as part of the Rhapsody project, a multi-year initiative inspired by the 2024 centennial of George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. The Knights’ Carnegie Hall concerts in 2023-24 will feature Chris Thile, Wu Man, Magos Herrera, and Jeffrey Kahane, among other esteemed collaborators.

The Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour
2026-02-08 13:00 - 17:00 | MVP Arena, 51 S Pearl St, Albany, NY, 12207, United States
100 Years of Thrills. 100 Years of Laughs. 100 Years of Joy.
This is a once-in-a-century celebration of 100 Years of Jaw-Dropping “No Way!” moves, 100 Years of “Wow!” and 100 Years of Heart-Pounding Thrills! The Harlem Globetrotters are coming to your city with their most LEGENDARY TOUR EVER. From gravity-defying dunks to game-changing tricks, experience the team that redefined basketball! This is history you can feel and a celebration of 100 years of over-the-top FUN with all-new surprises like the Golden Basketball by Spalding®. This is fan celebration from the moment you arrive with epic new pre-game magic, unforgettable post-game interactions, and the most fan-fueled experience in sports. This is your only chance to be part of The Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the LEGACY.

Word Plays: Spellbinding
2026-02-08 14:00 - 16:00 | Proctors, 432 State St, Schenectady, NY, 12305, United States
EVERYONE wants to listen to spellbinding stories. Our titles include:
Amelia’s Suitcase
Following the Rolling Stones
The Conjuror’s Revenge.
Our tellers are: Siri Allison, Kate Dudding, Margaret French, Eileen Mack, Claire Nolan, Nancy Marie Payne, Sandy Schuman and Dee Wind.
At every Story Circle show, superb performers tell rarely heard contemporary and traditional stories celebrating the human spirit. The shows are shared experiences between audience and performer, combining the intensity of a solo performance with the intimacy of a face-to-face conversation. Since 2008, over 4,000 people have enjoyed our shows at Proctors. We hope to see you there!
Click here to watch many of our performers tell stories. http://www.storycircleatproctors.org/youtube.shtml
Click here to find out about our performers.
http://www.storycircleatproctors.org/performers.shtml
Our website: http://www.storycircleatproctors.org/word–plays.shtml

Passport Series: Vasen
2026-02-12 19:30 - 21:30 | Universal Preservation Hall, 25 Washington St, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866, United States
Get ready to travel around the world – one concert at a time!
The Passport Series takes the same beloved world music that patrons of the park series have come to cherish and brings it to Proctors in Schenectady and Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga so the party can continue all year.
Vasen
Väsen-Duo, Mikael Marin and Olov Johansson have, after 37 years of interaction and touring, refined their sound and their stage presence to the extent that today they are unique in their kind. With their playful and perfect interplay, they seem to defy the laws of physics in what appears to be a telepathic communication.
The music is intense and full of humour. They create their very own musical language which in its appeal is as modern as it is ancient. With the foundation firmly rooted in the traditional music of Uppland, they have always looked curiously at new musical goals.
Olov & Micke have played together since 1983 when they met at Oktoberstämman in Uppsala and discovered that they had a large common repertoire and a similar way of playing. It turned out that Micke had learned from Ivar Tallroth in Uppsala and Olov had learned from Curt Tallroth in Harbo. They had been introduced to the rich Bohlin / Tallroth tradition by the two brothers. Olov & Micke started playing intensively together and released their first recording, “Det rister i Örat,” in 1985. They have played an incredible amount together over the years in Väsen. Now they go on adventures among old fine musicians, stories and trad tunes and at the same time they continue to break new ground. They perform on a variety of stringed instruments, including a silverbasharpa, oktavharpa, three-rowed Nyckelharpa, violoncello da spalla and a blue electric viola.

Dancing with the Stars: Live! 2026 Tour
2026-02-12 19:30 - 22:00 | Proctors, 432 State St, Schenectady, NY, 12305, United States
Straight from Hollywood, See Dancing with the Stars, Live!
See the glitz, glam and breathtaking performances of America’s favorite dance show in a city near you with this ALL-NEW SHOW starring your favorite pros Alan Bersten, Brandon Armstrong, Britt Stewart, Daniella Karagach, Emma Slater, Ezra Sosa, Jenna Johnson, Pasha Pashkov, Val Chmerkovskiy, Hailey Bills and special guests to be announced!
Experience the excitement, athleticism, and the artistry of the ballroom, live, up-close and personal…for an unforgettable night that you won’t want to miss!

VIP Information:
VIP1: LIVE FROM HOLLYWOOD FRONT ROW VIP PACKAGE
●One Reserved Ticket in the Front Row
●Interactive experience with members of the DWTS Touring Cast
●Professional Photo Op with members of the DWTS Touring Cast
●Custom VIP Laminate
●Exclusive Autographed Tour Item
●Exclusive Dancing with the Stars VIP Gift Item
●Pre-show Merchandise Shopping Opportunity
●On-site VIP Host and Ticket Pick-up
VIP2: MIRRORBALL DREAMIN’ VIP PACKAGE
●One Reserved Ticket in Rows 2 through 10
●Interactive experience with members of the DWTS Touring Cast
●Professional Photo Op with members of the DWTS Touring Cast
●Custom VIP Laminate
●Exclusive Dancing with the Stars VIP Gift Item
●Pre-show Merchandise Shopping Opportunity
●On-site VIP Host and Ticket Pick-up
VIP3: JUDGES’ CHOICE VIP PACKAGE
●One reserved ticket in rows 8 through 15
●Interactive experience with members of the DWTS Touring Cast
●Professional Photo Op with members of the DWTS Touring Cast
●Custom VIP Laminate
●Exclusive Dancing with the Stars Gift Item
●Pre-show Merchandise Shopping Opportunity
●On-site VIP Host and Ticket Pick-up
VIP4: GLITZ & GLAM VIP PACKAGE
●One Reserved Ticket in Rows 10 through 20
●Exclusive Dancing with the Stars VIP Gift Item
●On-site VIP Host and Ticket Pick-up
*Please note there is no Interactive Experience

MJ The Illusion: Reliving The King Of Pop
2026-02-13 19:30 - 21:30 | Cohoes Music Hall, 58 Remsen St, Cohoes, NY, 12047, United States
MJ The Illusion is a one-of-a-kind music concert that will take you on a journey through the music, performances, and visuals of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Through this live performance experience, you’ll be immersed in the magic of Michael Jackson’s music, from his breakthrough album “Off the Wall” to his timeless hits like “Thriller” and “Smooth Criminal” and of course “Billie Jean.”
You’ll be transported back in time to the golden era of Michael Jackson, with a fully immersive experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories. From the choreography to the lights, costumes, and of course, the music. Now get ready for the magic of Michael Jackson. This is MJ The Illusion, a must-see for all fans of music.
MICHAEL KNIGHT as Michael JacksonWhile most tribute artists learn to imitate their idols by watching videos over andover again, Michael Knight took a different approach.
· · In 2013, Knight sought out Michael Jackson’s backup dancer and choreographer for Cirque du Soleil’s Michael Jackson IMMORTAL, Travis Payne and contracted him to help understand and recreate MJ’s dancemoves.Additionally, in 2014, Knight received vocal training from Jackson’s long-time vocal coach, Seth Riggs. This training led Knight into becoming one of the top three Michael Jackson Tribute Artists’ in the world today.
In addition to performing with Legends in Concert since 2013, Knight has performed hundreds of shows in performing arts centers, casinos, fairs, festivals and private events worldwide!Knight performed to an audience of 60,000 people in 2018 at the Legendary Rose Bowl. Michael Knights looks forward to meeting and performing for Michael Jackson fans all over the world. This is MJ The Illusion.
