Holiday Lights Spectacular
It’s back! After being nixed seven years ago, this 2.5-mile drive-thru seaside holiday tradition triumphantly returns with more than 150 lighted-displays, many of which are animated, synced to holiday music. It all culminates in a holiday village, where kids can have pictures taken with Santa Clause, visitors can make s’mores and revelers can hear carolers sing on select nights. Wednesday night is pet night for discounts and a chance to have a photo of Fido seated on Santa’s lap. There is also a Twofer Tuesday special—two trips for the price of one. Jones Beach State Park, West End, Ocean Pkwy. seetheholidaylights.com $20 per car weekdays, $25 weekends. Nov. 20-Jan. 4. dusk-10 p.m. Mon.-Thurs., open til 11 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
David Amram’s 84th Birthday Concert: Remembering Pete Seeger
Billed as “the greatest folk concert Long Island has seen in decades,” this show is not only a birthday bash for a world-renowned artist and a musical celebration of perhaps one of the world’s most influential folk artists, it’s also a benefit for the nonprofit Gold Coast Arts Center, an organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the arts through education, exhibition, performance and outreach—something that David Amram has done throughout his own long career. Topping the bill is the octogenarian birthday boy himself, David Amram, and his quintet, and Amram’s close compatriots, including Peter Yarrow (of Peter, Paul and Mary fame), Tom Chapin, Holly Near, Guy Davis, Garland Jeffreys, Kim & Reggie Harris, Joel Rafael, The Amigos, The Chapin Sisters, Bethany & Rufus and the Connecticut State Troubadour Kristen Graves. The Hillwood Recital Hall At Tilles Center, LIU Post, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. tillescenter.org $55. 7 p.m. Nov. 20.
Ace Frehley
Here’s an interesting tidbit for Ace Frehley fans: on his newest album, Space Invaders, his fiance, Rachael Gordon, wrote the lyrics to two songs: “Change” and “Immortal Pleasures.” The Kiss guitarist is sure to bust out both songs when this Rock and Roll Hall of Famer storms into town to promote the album. Prepare to “rock and roll all night” as one of the most influential rock guitarists of all time brings his brand of far-out music to our little corner of the planet. With opening act Charm City Devils. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $25-$59.50. 8 p.m. Nov. 20.
Deck the Halls: Original Art for Holiday Giving
An opening reception for an exhibit that features the work of about two dozen local artists and artisans with all the charm of the holiday season. As in previous years, the event will come alive with a unique array of handcrafted jewelry, giftware and clothing by local and nationally recognized artisans, as well as a selection of sustainable and fair-trade items. Exhibit runs through Dec. 23. Gallery North, 90 North Country Rd., Setauket-East Setauket. gallerynorth.org Free. 5 p.m. Nov. 21.
Freddie Hudson, Victoria M. Howard, Billy Haughton
This trifecta of authors and horse racing experts will discuss and sign copies of a new book they co-wrote, Roosevelt Raceway: Where It All Began, which recounts the rise and fall of the then-world capital of harness racing. A must read for fans of Long Island history—or anyone who wonders why there are references to a racetrack on Corporate Drive in Westbury. Book Revue, 313 New York Ave., Huntington. Bookrevue.com Price of book. 7 p.m. Nov. 21.
Dave Attell
From Rodney Dangerfield to Jerry Seinfeld, LI is home to a laundry list of comics who made it into the big leagues. Add to that list this dark lord of the comedic arts, the not-so-family friendly former host of Insomniac With Dave Attell. When he’s not working the circuit, the always risqué joke slinger can be found on his late night stand-up show, Comedy Underground, on Comedy Central. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $45-$65. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 21.
Pat Metheny Unity Group
Jazz guitarist Pat Metheny, saxophonist Chris Potter, bass clarinetist Ben Williams and madman drummer Antonio Sánchez continue their mind-blowing ascension to virtuosic nirvana. Expect to be absolutely floored, no matter what your musical tastes. Not to miss! The Space at Westbury, 250 Post Ave., Westbury. thespaceatwestbury.com $45-$95. 8 p.m. Nov. 21.
Sultans of String
This jazzy folk/worldbeat trio known for poly-rhythms and revved up riffs melds fiery violin dances with kinetic guitar while a funky bass lays down unstoppable grooves. Acoustic strings meet electronic wizardry to create layers and depth of sound. They’ll be celebrating the release of their new album, Symphony! Our Times Coffeehouse, 38 Old Country Rd, Garden City. ourtimescoffeehouse.org $15, $6 for kids under 12. 8 p.m. Nov. 21.
Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels
Good golly, Miss Molly, what a high-octane, super-charged pop music career has Mitch Ryder had with The Detroit Wheels. Once William S. Levise, Jr. adopted his stage name he truly took off. He and his band were the first to hit the AM airwaves with their distinctive hard-hitting sound that combined the best of Motown and the Motor City in one explosive rock ’n’ roll ride. Take a listen to “Devil With a Blue Dress On” or “Sock It To Me, Baby!” and you’ll know where he’s coming from. With Mitch Ryder in the driver’s seat, these Wheels have covered a lot of mileage over the years—and there’s many more miles still to come. Suffolk Theater, 118 Main St., Riverhead. Suffolktheater.com $49. 8 p.m. Nov. 21.
Bill Nye the Science Guy
Universes will collide for this delightfully nerdy event that comes in the wake of Nye’s heated Creationist debate and his pop culture debut on Dancing With The Stars. Previously only appearing at academic institutions, he’s taking the show on the road for those who want to relive their childhood or hear his hotly debated theories in person. This performance is guaranteed to inform, inspire and stir up some nostalgia! NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. venue.thetheatreatwestbury.com $40-$85. 8 p.m. Nov. 21.
Straight to Hell
Giving homage to the late, great “punk rock warlord” Joe Strummer is this tribute to The Clash, the English punk rockers dubbed by music critics to be “The Only Band That Matters” (several Press staffers would have to agree). Opening the show will be Rockaway Bitch, an all-girl tribute to The Ramones (!!), Basket Case, a Green Day cover band and local hellraisers Black Mary. Do not miss this gig! 89 North Music Venue, 89 North Ocean Ave., Patchogue. 89northmusic.com $10. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 22.
Mario Cantone
He’s a funny guy, this Mario Cantone—handsome and talented, too. Cantone, a celebrated stage actor and comedian, gained well-deserved critical acclaim with his Tony-nominated one-man show, “Laugh Whore,” which also became a Showtime special. He previously starred in the Tony-winning production of Stephen Sondheim’s “Assassins” and in Terrence McNally’s dramatic comedy, “Love! Valor! Compassion!” Of course, some fans might have a soft spot for his role on HBO’s Sex and the City as Anthony, Charlotte’s wedding-planner-with-attitude. Who else could do a musical parody of both Judy Garland and Jim Morrison? Who else would dare! The Space at Westbury, 250 Post Ave., Westbury. thespaceatwestbury.com $32.50-$60. 8 p.m. Nov. 22.
Roger Street Friedman
This New York-based musician’s genre-bending sound is a fusion of Americana, folk, rock, country and R&B reminiscent of artists like Van Morrison, Paul Simon and Joni Mitchell. He recently released his debut full-length album, The Waiting Sky. The Landmark Theatre, 232 Main St., Port Washington. landmarkonmainstreet.org $47. 8 p.m. Nov. 22.
Johnette Napolitano
This uncompromisingly talented singer-songwriter from Hollywood is perhaps best known as the lead vocalist and bassist for the alternative rock band Concrete Blonde, of “Joey” fame. Napolitano’s also created a body of work as a solo artist, a sculptor and a poet. She’s composed soundtracks for movies and TV shows, as well as collaborated with Nine Inch Nails, Danny Lohner, John Trudel and Paul Westerberg, to name a few. Not too long ago she even sang lead with The Heads, a revamped Talking Heads project that went headless without founder David Byrne. Now, she’s on the road with “Rough Mix,” her memoir-cum-musical recollection of three decades spent doing what she does best. Boulton Cener for the Performing Arts, 37 West Main St., Bay Shore. Boultoncenter.org $30-$35. 8 p.m. Nov. 22.
Hot Autumn Nights
This hot lineup of 1960s throwbacks includes Tommy James & The Shondells, who topped music charts with “Hanky Panky,” “I Think We’re Alone Now” and “Mony, Mony,” among others. Also rocking out will be English pop sensations Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, who will play their hits, “Mrs. Brown You’ve Got A Lovely Daughter” and “I’m Henry VIII, I Am.” Rounding out the lineup are The Grass Roots, best known for hits such as “Midnight Confessions” and The Buckinghams, who will perform “Kind of a Drag” and other hits. NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. venue.thetheatreatwestbury.com $30-$75. 8 p.m. Nov. 22.
Chuck Loeb, Jeff Lorber and Everette Harp
The sheer power, diversity and virtuosity, really, of this Smooth Jazz super group is encapsulated in the simple-yet-telling title of their latest, Jazz Funk Soul (also the name of their recent tour). Expect to be wowed, mesmerized, converted. Not to be missed. Molloy College, The Madison Theater, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. molloy.edu $50-$95. 8 p.m. Nov. 22.
Steve Miller Band
Take our word for it: You know every single lyric to every single Steve Miller Band song ever, which makes seeing them at a live show such a fun experience. Definitely “Fly Like an Eagle” down to see him this weekend because “Time keeps on slippin’, slippin’, slippin’ into the future” and you might miss your chance to see the guy some call the Gangster of Love (but whom others simply refer to as “Maurice.”) One thing’s for sure: Before they take your money and run, you will have the time of your life. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $55-$155. 8 p.m. Nov. 22.
Trio Solisti
Marking its 10th year as ensemble-in-residence at Adelphi University, this group has forged its reputation as “the most exciting piano trio in America,” according to The New Yorker, with a performance style that combines exceptional virtuosity and penetrating musical insight. The acclaimed ensemble possesses a broad repertoire that encompasses most of the standard trio selections, as well as many new works by contemporary composers. Adelphi University, Performing Arts Center, Concert Hall, 1 South Ave., Garden City. aupac.adelphi.edu $30-$35. 8 p.m. Nov. 22.
Carol Maraj
Nicki Minaj’s mother will sing songs from her soon-to-be-released gospel album at a Thanksgiving outreach event hosted by the nonprofit Bridges Outreach and Sisters Divinely Connected Inc. The group aims to reach out to the surrounding communities and provide encouragement, assistance, food and inspiration for Thanksgiving. Dinner is being served and there will Thanksgiving giveaways. VFW Hall, 19 Colonial Springs Rd., Wheatley Heights. Free. 1:30 p.m. Nov. 23.
Lights, Sound Movement
An opening reception with be held with this exhibit showcasing untraditional elements in contemporary art from works that are concerned entirely with motion and unpredictability to work that brings ancient myth into contemporary life. Artists whose work will be featured include: Annalisa Iadicicco, who emphasizes subjects of a politically charged nature; Karen Kettering Dimit and Kenny Greenberg, who both use neon to draw in the eye; and sculptors Jack Rohe Howard-Potter and Mara Sfara. Gold Coast Arts Center, 113 Middle Neck Rd., Great Neck. goldcoastarts.org 4 p.m. Nov. 23 Exhibit runs through Jan. 15.
Songbirds: Women In Folk
National award-winning singer-songwriter and Huntingtonian Patricia Shih brings a multi-media tribute to five extraordinary female musicians for a lively and spirited night of music co-presented by Folk Music Society of Huntington. In this show Patricia highlights five women—Ronnie Gilbert of The Weavers, Joan Baez, Mary Travers of Peter, Paul and Mary, Judy Collins and Joni Mitchell—who have influenced generations of contemporary artists. Patricia sings full versions of these artists’ most beloved songs live, along with her husband/accompanist Stephen Fricker. After the concert there will be a CD release party for Patricia’s newest album, Gold Covered. Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington. cinemaartscentre.org $15 members, $20 public. 6 p.m. Nov. 23.
Davi Sings Sinatra
There’s a reason Robert Davi pulls out all the stops in his heart-felt tribute to Ol’ Blue Eyes. The Chairman of the Board was on hand when the young Davi made his screen debut with his boyhood idol in the 1977 TV movie Contract on Cherry Street. While they were filming at a New York social club at 2 a.m. Sinatra invited Davi to join him for a drink. When the young actor said he didn’t imbibe, Sinatra told him, “You don’t drink, you’re fired!” Then Davi said, “I’ll have what you’re having!” And he sat at the bar and Sinatra poured him some Jack Daniel’s. “It was my first one—and I’ve been drinking it ever since!” says Davi, who grew up in Dix Hills and went to Hofstra. He’s played cops, thugs, drug lords and tough guys in roles that have taken him from The Goonies to Die Hard. But on his debut album, Davi Sings Sinatra: On the Road to Romance, he shows his softer side. And that’s what he’ll present on tour. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $45-$75. 8 p.m. Nov. 23.
Fight Club
With David Fincher’s Gone Girl dominating American movie theaters, CAC staffer Ryan Perry presents a BIG SCREEN celebration of the 15th Anniversary of Fincher’s iconic turn-of-the-millennium masterpiece about consumerism and masculinity run amok, starring Brad Pitt and Edward Norton. Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington. cinemaartscentre.org $10 members, $15 public. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 25.
Sleeping with Sirens & Pierce the Veil
Wounded and tattooed emo at its gushiest and perhaps most hypnotizing. With special guests: This Wild Life & Beartooth. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. paramountny.com $32.50-$65. 8 p.m. Nov. 24, 25.
The Brian Setzer Orchestra
The former Stray Cats front man and hometown rockabilly hero returns to Long Island with his 18-piece orchestra on their Christmas Rocks Extravaganza! tour. The concert will include Setzer’s legendary guitar magic on hits such as “Rock This Town,” “Stray Cat Strut” and much more, as well as his re-imagined and acclaimed Holiday classics. NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. venue.thetheatreatwestbury.com $50-$85. 8 p.m. Nov. 25.
Halestorm
The Grammy-winning rockers—metal goddess Lizzy Hale, along with drummer/brother Arejay, shredder Joe Hottinger and madman bassist Josh Smith—unleash unbridled sonic ferocity in a gig bound to cause legions of audience members to shout, raise their fists into the air, and head-bang in almost synchronized unison. With New Medicine. The Space at Westbury, 250 Post Ave., Westbury. thespaceatwestbury.com $22.50-$25. 8:30 p.m. Nov. 25.
Amy Schumer
This Rockville Centre native is the hilarious actress/comedian of the acclaimed Comedy Central show Inside Amy Schumer. Fans will recall seeing her in one of her guest starring roles on HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm and Girls and in the major motion picture Seeking a Friend for the End of the World with Steve Carrell and Keira Knightley. But onstage, alone with a microphone, is where Schumer shines. With her colorful, often-raunchy commentary, Schumer promises side-splitting humor about life, love and sex that you won’t soon forget. The Press promises you this: she’s waaaaaay funnier then her first cousin once removed, U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY). Seriously. NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. venue.thetheatreatwestbury.com $50-$85. 8 p.m. Nov. 26.
The Warden and FAME
Blending hip-hop, reggae and rock is this Bay Shore-based quintet that have been churning out musical good vibes for the past four years with upbeat., groovy jams such as “Summertime,” “Get My Roll On” and “The Weekends Here.” Warming up the crowd will be Dune Local, Aqua Cherry, Jungle Gypsy and The Offshore Regulars. Revolution Bar and Music Hall, 140 Merrick Rd., Amityville. Revolutionli.com $12. 8 p.m. Nov. 26.
—Compiled by Spencer Rumsey, Jamie Franchi, Timothy Bolger and Zack Tirana
