Thursday, Feb. 13

Wait Wait … Don’t Tell Me! at Altria Theater

If you’re a fan of NPR’s Peabody-winning comedy news quiz show, “Wait Wait … Don’t Tell Me!” then you probably already scored your ticket for this hot event, put on in association with VPM (which owns Style Weekly). Host Peter Sagal leads a rollicking panel of special guests, comedians, writers, contestants, who try to (wait, wait) figure out which week’s news is actually true—which should be extra hilarious now that many experts and pundits believe the country is in the midst of a full-blown Constitutional crisis. Plenty observers already have noted that each week in 2025 seems to have more headlines than an average year of news, so there should be plenty to work with. Note: We’re hearing reports that this show is nearly sold out, so get your tickets sooner than later. 7:30 p.m.

Jazz faculty Salute to Roy Haynes at VCU’s W. E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts

Virginia Commonwealth University has a long tradition of hiring some of the best local jazz artists as professors and instructors. Going to their recitals, or special programs like the one this Thursday night, is one of Richmond’s open secrets. This night’s focus is on Roy Haynes, an astonishingly long-lived drumming giant whose career stretched from playing with post-WWII bebop legend Charlie Parker, then Thelonious Monk, John Coltrane, Chick Corea, and dozens of other greats. He even appeared with the Allman Brothers Band in 2006. He died at 99 last November. With an almost 80-year career, there is no lack of material for a tribute program. The VCU Faculty Septet which will be performing includes: JC Kuhl on saxophone and bass trombone, Shannon Gunn on trombone, Trey Pollard on guitar, Dimitrije Vasiljević on piano, Andrew Randazzo on bass, and Jazz Faculty Director Taylor Barnett on trumpet on flugelhorn. Channeling Haynes will be drummer Tony Martucci, who is retiring at the end of this term. Based on previous events, selections will come with some context, which is a painless way to pick up knowledge. Over the years, some of the most memorable musical events have taken place at VCU. If you have never gone to one, this could open a world of possibilities. 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $12. Located at 922 Park Ave.—Peter McElhinney

Friday, Feb. 14

Miramar at Révéler Experiences (album release party)

Miramar is one of RVA’s musical jewels. What better place to hear them celebrate the release of their new album, “Entre Tus Flores [Ansonia Records],” than amid the colored lights and gilded skeletons of Révéler? And what better time to bask in their Nuevo Romantico sound than Valentine’s Day? The core group coalesces around the close harmonies of singers Rei Alvarez (Bio Ritmo) and Laura Ann Singh (Quatro Na Bossa) and the arrangements and keyboards of Marlysse Rose Simmons. The usual lineup includes some of the most capable players in Richmond, including percussionist Giustino Riccio (Bio Ritmo), guitarist Gary Kalar (Zarove), and either Andrew Jay Randazzo (Butcher Brown) or Rusty Farmer (Butterbean). They often play with a string quartet, and for the second time late last year with the full Richmond Symphony. Their record label is one associated with a rich history of Latin musical artists dating back to the mid-20th century. While the band has deep roots in Richmond, it also has a growing global profile. Even without understanding the poetry of the lyrics, it does not take long to figure out what is special about the band. Arrive early. Both shows are sold out, but there are 30 tickets at the door for each set. Sets at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $20.–P.M.

Comedian Edy Modica with Honey Pluton at Gallery5

A healthy sense of humor is not only one of the keys to a good relationship … but one of the keys to a good life in general, we think. This Valentine’s Day, why not take your special someone out for an affordable night of comedy? You may recognize New York filmmaker and comedian Edy Modica from her memorable role on the hilarious show “Jury Duty” (Freevee), and she’s had recurring roles on HBO Max’s  “Made for Love” and HBO’s “High Maintenance.” Modica brings her “Is Anything Happening Tour” to Gallery5 with stand-up comedian and theatrical performer and podcast host (“Up Good With Honey Pluton”) Honey Pluton opening. 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. $10 in advance or $15 at the door.

Sam Bush with The Sugar Hollows at Broadberry

Virtuoso bluegrass mandolinist Sam Bush is a member of the International Bluegrass Hall of Fame and at age 72, this native Kentuckian still knows how to move the room with a blend of impressive technical skill with raw musical emotion. Also on the bill are Richmond’s own folk-rockers the Sugar Hollows, who got their name from a popular trail in Shenandoah National Park. $40.

Saturday, Feb. 15

Richmond Punk Flea Market at ACCA Center (also Sunday, Feb. 16)

For two days this weekend, you can come check out this punk flea market featuring DIY sellers and artists; if you’re a fan of “weirdo art, vinyl records, vintage clothes or possibly a collector of strange and unusual things” organizers say this event is for you; includes everything from toys and taxidermy to cassettes, comic books, VHS tapes, handmade jewelry, retro video games, memorabilia, oddities and more. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Address: 1712 Bellevue Ave. Admission is $10 (good for both days). Kids 12 and under get in free. Cash and cards accepted. All ages.

Richmond Beer Fest at Stone Brewing Taproom

Join participating breweries such as Ardent Craft Ales, The Veil, Bingo Beer Co., Black Heath Meadery, Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, Hidden Wit Brewing Co., Port City Brewing Company, Soul Mega, Triple Crossing Beer Co., Vasen Brewing, 6 Beers and a Goat and many others.  This event is rain or shine and your ticket includes unlimited tasters, a souvenir tasting glass and 15% discount on merchandise. Food will be available for purchase. Noon to 4 p.m. 4300 Williamsburg Ave. General admission: $45 plus fees.

Legends on Grace: Heart and Soul feat. Ms. Jaylin Brown at the Dominion Energy Center’s Bob and Sally Mooney Hall

Keep those Valentine vibes going as Ms. Jaylin Brown delivers an intimate performance “centered around love in all forms,” and featuring her lovely neo-soul mixed with jazz, blues and R&B. Ms. Brown will be joined by Sir Rome, Charles Owens, Calvin Presents, Jake Lawrence, and Joe Edward to present “Heartscapes,” a healing journey through songs of love, according to organizers. Legends on Grace is “a series of traditional cabaret-style performances” focused on spotlighting artists from Virginia. Doors open at 7 p.m. Show at 8 p.m. The performance lasts two hours with an intermission. Tickets range from $27 (student IDs) to $52 plus fees.

Sunday, Feb. 16

Prabir Trio and Leslie and The Dots at Northside Grille

Check out the first pairing of these two veteran local bands that know their way around pop-friendly hooks and have some respect for the music of the British invasion, mixed up with their love of other genres, of course. (Side trivia: the Dots were thusly named because these North Siders liked to frequent the fine local establishment known as Dot’s Back Inn). Organizers online say: “Bonus points if you dress like an alien.” 8 p.m.

Below: “Dry Air Cure” by Leslie and The Dots