Ratt, one of the most popular hair metal bands of the 1980s, is on tour once again. The lead singer, Stephen Pearcy, is one of only two remaining original members. Their last album was 2010’s “Infestation,” so you’re sure to hear all the hits. See them at Bogart’s, 2621 Vine St., Cincinnati, on Dec. 29 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $28.50. For more information, call 513-872-8801 or visit www.bogarts.com.
“2 Pianos, 4 Hands”
The popularity of this show compelled the Cincinnati Playhouse to extend its run. Piano virtuosity meets raucous comedy as Richard and Tom struggle to achieve their dreams of becoming concert piano superstars. See it at the Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, 962 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati, through Jan. 12. For more information, including dates and ticket prices, call 800-582-3208 or visit www.cincyplay.com.
New Year’s Ball with Rumpke Mountain Boys
The Rumpke Mountain Boys, our region’s premiere “trashgrass” band, is throwing a two-day party featuring a full lineups of live music each, including Eric Hanese of Ekoostik Hookah. See them all at the 20th Century Theatre, 3021 Madison Road, Cincinnati, on Dec. 30-31 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20-$120. For more information, call (513) 731-8000 or visit www.the20thcenturytheatre.com.
Gwar
Gwar’s fearless leader, Odorus Urungus, is no longer with us, but these interplanetary bloodthirsty barbarians are still going strong. They released their 14th album, “The Blood of Gods,” in 2017, and are embarking on their 2019 Use Your Collusion Tour. See them at Bogart’s, 2621 Vine St., Cincinnati, on Dec. 31 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25. For more information, call 513-872-8801 or visit www.bogarts.com.
New Year’s Eve at Music Hall: Frank and Ella
The Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, with guest vocalists Capathia Jenkins and Tony DeSare, will pay tribute to the music of Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra. After it ends, continue the party at the Mirror Ball (see below). See it at the Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati, on Dec. 31 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $25. For more information, call 513-621-2787 or visit www.cincinnatiarts.org.
Mirror Ball New Year’s Eve
For those who don’t feel like going home after the Frank and Ella tribute, the after-party is here. It includes a futuristic disco courtesy of DJ ETrayn, craft cocktails by renowned Cincinnati mixologist Molly Wellmann, party favors, light bites, and an open bar. A VIP package is available as well. Check it out at the Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati, on Dec. 31 at 9 p.m. Tickets are $100-$175 and includes the Frank and Ella concert. For more information, call 513-621-2787 or visit www.cincinnatiarts.org.
Bubbles & Bow Ties NYE Ball
Perhaps the most adult item on our list is this “bubbles and bow ties” New Year’s Eve party that includes a buffet dinner, a chef-attended carving station, dancing, entertainment, and a midnight champagne toast. A two-room suite awaits you at the end of the night, as does a cooked-to-order breakfast the next morning. Take your time and check out by 1 p.m. on New Year’s Day. Check it out at the Embassy Suites Cincinnati Northeast Blue Ash, 4554 Lake Forest Drive, Blue Ash, on Dec. 31 from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. Rates are $388 (couples) and $288 (individuals). For more, call 513-733-8900 or visit the Bubbles & Bow Ties NYE Ball 2019 Facebook page.
“Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” In Concert
Dutifully following last year’s presentation of “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra will play every note of the John Williams musical score live while the third film of the Potter saga plays on the big screen. See it at the Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati, on Jan 3-5. Performance times are 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets start at $25. For more information, call 513-621-2787 or visit www.cincinnatiarts.org
Southern Accents — A Tribute to Tom Petty
This national Tom Petty tribute band is named for the late rock legend’s sixth album. See them at Bogart’s, 2621 Vine St., Cincinnati, on Jan. 4 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10. For more information, call 513-872-8801 or visit www.bogarts.com.
’90s Grunge Night
This tribute to 1990s grunge music will feature a tribute to the Stone Temple Pilots, whose singer, Scott Weiland, passed away in 2015. See it at Riverfront Live, 4343 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, on Jan. 4 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10-$100. For more information, call 513-321-2572 or visit www.riverfrontlivecincy.com.
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