Stepping Out

Jarrod Spector's 'Jukebox Life'

The Tony nominee shares the soundtrack of his life

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In Concert

Jarrod Spector
Broadway’s young star, currently known to theatergoers as Frankie Valli in “Jersey Boys” and Barry Mann in “Beautiful” is back in the area to share his musical gifts in his latest cabaret show, “Jukebox Life.” Spector’s revue traces his experiences performing in those and other “jukebox” and biographical musicals. From his time crooning Bobby Darin hits en route to becoming Junior Champion on Ed McMahon’s Star Search at age 6, music has framed and underscored the story of Spector’s journey from his Philadelphia childhood to the bright lights of Broadway. With a dynamic seven piece band, along with unrivaled and often-embarrassing childhood archival footage, “Jukebox Life” reflects Spector’s journey from Philly to Los Angeles to New York, through some terrible (and eventually less terrible) auditions, to getting the role and, best of all, to getting the girl.
Friday, Nov. 18, 7:30 p.m. $45 and $40. Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 877-4000 or www.aupac.adelphi.edu.

Rock On

Kansas
The “garage band” from Topeka that evolved into a legendary — and still thriving — rock band, is on tour celebrating the 40th Anniversary of their breakthrough album “Leftoverture.” The show features classic hits along with new songs from their recently released album, “The Prelude Implicit.” Kansas’ current lineup features new frontman and keyboardist Ronnie Platt who replaced Steve Walsh, who retired from the band in 2014. Kansas still includes legendary members Richard Williams on guitar, Phil Ehart on drums, Billy Greer on bass, and violinist/guitarist David Ragsdale. “Leftoverture,” which was released in October 1976, hit Number Five on the Billboard 200 album charts, and featured Kansas’ instant classic, “Carry On My Wayward Son,” which peaked at Number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Saturday, Nov. 19, 8 p.m. $89.50, $59.50, $49.50, $39.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com or www.paramountny.com.

On Stage

Shanghai Acrobats
Dazzling pageantry, gasp-inducing feats of athleticism, and spine-tingling contortions combine in a tumbling tour de force when this acclaimed troupe takes to the stage on its latest tour. The Shanghai Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China take their audience on an enchanting journey through the Orient, showcasing their exhilarating acrobatic skills. They merge the hustle and bustle of contemporary Shanghai with China’s rich cultural heritage, in “Shanghai Nights,” a celebration of their native land. “Shanghai Nights” tells the story of a sleeping boy who enters a dream world of fantasy and fairies, highlighted by colorful costumes, lush sets, music, and innovative lighting. Aerial acrobats fly through the air, while jugglers, contortionists and martial artists demonstrate the exacting precision of their skills.
Sunday, Nov. 20, 3 p.m. $35-$55. Madison Theatre, Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. (516) 323-4444 or www.madisontheatreny.org.