Arts scene (1/27/12)

Solar system spectacular

The Anchorage Symphony Orchestra performs Gustav Holst's suite "The Planets" in sync with high definition images assembled by Jose Francisco Salgado of Chicago' Adler Planetarium at 8 p.m. Saturday and 4 p.m. Sunday in Atwood Concert Hall. Tickets are $15-$42 at centertix.net. Salgado will give a free lunchtime talk at noon today in the Public Conference Room at Loussac Library.

concert

Keyboard wizard

Pianist Mike Garson's pop chops are well known from his appearances with David Bowie, Nine Inch Nails, Smashing Pumpkins and such. But he's also accomplished in the jazz, classical and avant-garde genres with a reputation as widespread as his talents. Two compelling shows are planned in the Discovery Theatre: a classical program at 7:30 tonight and a wide-open rock/alt performance at 7:30 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $32-$37 at centertix.net or call 263-2787.

theater

Shampoo and sympathy

Anchorage Community Theatre presents "Steel Magnolias," a modern masterpiece of both comic repartee and ennobling tragedy. Meet the ladies at Truvy's beauty salon, where gossip and bickering are team sports, but the ultimate prize is strength and love. The show runs 7 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday though Feb. 19 at 1133 E. 70th Ave. Tickets are $15, $13 for seniors/military/students and $11 for kids under 12. For more information, call 868-4913