Thursday 5/22

The Mind of Mencia

Honduran-born comedian Carlos Mencia tackles topics as diverse as everyday hypocrisies, absurdities, ethnic stereotypes, race relations, immigration, war, patriotism, capitalism, pop culture, current events and family. Carlos is best known for his well-received Comedy Central show, Mind of Mencia. Despite some rather unfortunate public relations moments (including backlash after his inappropriate joke: “I’m glad Hurricane Katrina happened. It taught us black people can’t swim”), Mencia has maintained a successful career as a comedian. Tonight he performs popular material at the Palm Beach Improv. 8 p.m. Palm Beach Improv. 550 S Rosemary Ave, West Palm Beach, 33401.

Friday 5/23

Cirque du Soleil & Michael Jackson

Despite Conrad Murray’s best efforts, Michael Jackson has remained “immortal”—at least metaphorically speaking. Cirque du Soleil’s tribute to the king of pop reinforces our culture’s renewed interest in Mr. Jackson (recently, he released a “new” single). This unique show combines Michael Jackson’s legendary music with the world-famous choreography of Cirque du Soleil. It features 49 international dancers, musicians, and acrobats—presented in rock concert format. Michael Jackson’s unparalleled music and Cirque du Soleil’s masterful performances make for an explosive and creative spectacular. 8 p.m. BB&T Center. 2555 NW 136th Ave, Sunrise, 33323.

One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest

The classic novel and Academy award winning film One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest is given the stage treatment by local Andrew Living Arts Studio. Dale Wasserman’s adaptation of Ken Kesey’s break-through novel concerns the action of the residents at a “loony bin” in the 1960’s. The stern and vindictive Nurse Ratched is a camp-friendly nightmare, at odds with new patient “misfit” Randal McMurphy, who awakens both the staff and the other residents. Written in 1962 between the Korean and Vietnam War, the play reflects a time when poets, singers and artists united in opposition against social injustices. The play is also noteworthy for heralding Native American rights, symbolized by the mute Native American resident who finally speaks. 7:30 p.m. Andrews Living Arts Studio. 23 NW Fifth St, Fort Lauderdale, 33301.

Saturday 5/24

Tattoos and Hot Dogs

Thinking Cap Theatre is a non-profit, Fort Lauderdale-based theatre company devoted to presenting experimental, provocative, and socially-conscious plays. Their newest play, “hot dog” (the lower caps on purpose), follows their dogma of presenting works that depict a range of identities more reflective of today’s society. Hot dog concerns the giving and receiving of care. Dog lives next door to her daughter Maryanne and son-in-law Michael. When Maryann tires of caring for the feisty and stubborn Dog, she fetches her sister Carol for help. The play is experimental, and absurdist, in the style of Edward Albee and Samuel Beckett. 8 p.m. NSU Gallery 217, Performing and Visual Arts Wing. 3301 College Ave, Fort Lauderdale, 33314.

Tattoo Mania Expo

Sex appeal begins with tatting—or at least that’s what some subcultures of gay culture believe. What better place to indulge in one of South Florida’s favorite design accessory than at West Palm Beach’s Tattoo Mania Expo? Featuring an assortment of local and industry leading tattoo artists, vendors, and sponsors, this year’s event at the Palm Beach County Convention Center includes fine art galleries, music and entertainment, and contests and awards. Saturday at the Expo includes a fashion show, and a “Miss Tattoo Mania” Pageant with a $250 cash prize. Who says inked drag queens can’t enter the pageant? 5 p.m. Palm Beach County Convention Center. 650 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, 33401.

Sunday 5/25

Memorial Day Weekend Tea Cruise

The May Fort Lauderdale Tea Cruise takes place on Memorial Day Weekend. In remembrance of all the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces, dancers from Boardwalk and Johnny’s will entertain cruise-goers with booty shaking, possible twerking, and seductive dancing. Kitty Meow hosts and DJ Greyson Jubilee keeps the party spinning. An after party at Johnny’s (with no cover and $1.00 drinks) means that this event can last until the wee hours of the night. Of course, red, white and blue speedo attire is highly recommended. Boarding from 5-5:30 p.m. for the cruise, which concludes at 9 p.m. 540 SE 5th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, 33301.

Monday 5/26

A Memorial Day Concert

Some of the best aspects of Memorial Day weekend include rousing patriotic hymns. A Souza anyone? What about different variations of The Star Spangled Banner? Mizner Park will be hosting a Memorial Day concert in honor of the fallen soldiers throughout America’s history. The Indian River Pops, Robert Sharon Chorale, and New Gardens Band play different orchestral music conducted by Owen Seward. 7 p.m. Mizner Park Amphitheater. 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, 33432.

Tuesday 5/27

Everybody Drinks the Same Water

13th century Spain is hardly the focus of many plays, but with “Everybody Drinks the Same Water,” Miami Theater Center grapples with this intriguing setting. An all-local cast of veteran actors and newcomers perform in this murder mystery. The plot follows three teenagers of different faiths who decide to work together to figure out who poisoned the public water supply. Add to the mix inter-religious flirtations with potentially fatal consequences, and you get an engaging look at the past that also teaches a number of powerful lessons relating to the present. 10 a.m. Miami Theater Center. 9806 NE 2nd Ave, Miami Shores, 33138.

Wednesday 5/28

Evita

Best known in the gay community for being the only watchable Madonna movie, Evita also started the career of another gay icon: Patti Lupone. The musical centers around the rags-to-riches story of Eva Peron—a once radio host turned First Lady. Famous in Argentina for her philanthropy, Evita died at an early age, solidifying her legacy as a saint to the Argentinian people. The Andrew Lloyd Weber penned music has become a cultural staple (Don’t Cry for me Argentina, High-Flying Adored). The musical has been performed often, with a recent popular revival on Broadway. Bring tissues for the melodramatic second act. 8 p.m. Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts. 1300 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, 33132.