Pittsburgh Concert Calendar: January 2013

Photograph from Flashdance — The Musical Tour

Flashdance is back! It’s been 30 years since the Paramount Pictures movie was in theaters, and now Flashdance — The Musical is taking the stage for the first time. Emily Padgett stars as Alex, a Pittsburgh steel mill welder by day and a bar dancer by night who dreams of becoming a professional performer. So, of course, the world premiere of the nationwide show is at Heinz Hall from January 1-6. It’s packed with sensational dance numbers, hits from the Grammy Award-winning movie soundtrack, and 16 new songs written by Robbie Roth and Robert Cary, just for the stage. Tickets range from $20-$60.

Heinz Hall, Downtown. 412.392.4900. trustarts.org. Flashdance — The Musical, flashdancethemusical.com.

Photograph from Emilie Autumn’s Management

Goth music is getting a kick-ass makeover! World-class violinist Emilie Autumn’s over-the-top fashions and theatrical stage shows make the dark music more fun. Emilie will be shredding it up January 13 at Mr. Small’s Funhouse with songs from her new album, Fight Like a Girl. Tickets are $17 in advance and $20 at the door.

Mr. Small’s Funhouse, 400 Lincoln Ave., Millvale. 412.821.4447. mrsmalls.com. Emilie Autumn, emilieautumn.com.

Photograph from PromoWest Productions

When “I Believe in a Thing Called Love” hit the radio in 2003, The Darkness had us shredding major air guitar. And we haven’t stopped since! Our hearts will be in overdrive January 14 when the British band tears up Stage AE during the Let Them Eat Cakes world tour. Tickets are $23 in advance and $25 on January 14.

PromoWest North Shore, 400 North Shore Drive, North Shore. 412.229.5483. stageae.com. The Darkness, theactualdarkness.com.

Photograph from Cameron Mackintosh’s Les Misérables 25th anniversary tour.

The dream you’ve dreamed has come true: Les Misérables is coming to Pittsburgh! The Benedum Center will be showing Cameron Mackintosh’s new 25th anniversary production of the moving musical January 15-27. Set in 19th century France, Les Misérables tells the tale of Jean Valjean, a paroled prisoner who makes sacrifices and seeks redemption during the brink of the Revolution. The updated version of Boublil and Schönberg’s show features new staging and scenery inspired by Victor Hugo paintings. We’re not the only ones who are raving about the anniversary production of the longest running musical. The New York Times says it’s “an unquestionably spectacular production from start to finish.” Tickets range from $26-$69.

Les Misérables, lesmis.com.Benedum Center, Downtown. 412.456.6666. trustarts.org.

Photograph from Gin Blossoms

With hits like “Hey, Jealousy” and “Found Out About You,” Gin Blossoms were regulars on our ‘90s playlists. Now they’re back with a new album, No Chocolate Cake, which is just as sweet and irresistible as it sounds. The alternative rockers will be in full bloom January 17 at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille. Tickets are $35 for general admission and $50 for Gold Circle reserved seats.

Jergel’s Rhythm Grille, 103 Slade Lane, Warrendale. 724.799.8333. jergels.com. Gin Blossoms, ginblossoms.net.

Photograph from PromoWest Productions

Before he opens for Taylor Swift’s “Red” tour, Ed Sheeran is headlining his own list of venues, and we’re psyched to be hearing that folksy voice at more than one show this year. The lovable redhead will be performing hits from his newest album, +, at Stage AE on January 28.

PromoWest North Shore, 400 North Shore Drive, North Shore. 412.229.5483. stageae.com. Ed Sheeran, edsheeran.com.

Photograph from 377 Management

Nothing gets rid of the winter blues like the twang of a guitar and a smooth, southern voice. That’s why we’re so excited Lee Brice is bringing his laid-back swag and signature ball cap to Pittsburgh January 31. The country cutie will be rocking the Pepsi Roadhouse with hits from his sophomore album, Hard 2 Love. Tickets are $39-$59.

Pepsi Roadhouse, 565 Pennsylvania 18, Burgettstown. 724.947.1900. pepsiroadhouse.com. Lee Brice, leebrice.com.