As this new year begins, Charlotte is scheduled to host a variety of entertainment events, everything from Broadway musicals to jazz to comedy.

Here are my top picks for January-March.

Caution: Because of the continuing pandemic, events may be change, rescheduled or be cancelled, so check before you go. Also, some venues require proof of vaccination, so have that card handy.

January

“Bird Lives!” at the Jazz Room (January 14-15): JazzArts Charlotte and UNC Charlotte celebrate legendary saxophonist Charlie Parker, “Bird” through renditions of his “bebop” jazz composition.

Sherri Shepherd at the Comedy Zone (January 14-16): The former co-host of The View will show off her hilarious sense of humor.

Queen City R&B Fest featuring K Michelle & Raheem DeVaughn (January 16): Head to the Belk Theater, for musical performances by R&B artists K Michelle and Raheem DeVaughn.

Ain’t Too Proud -The Life and Times of the Temptations (January 18-23): Through the Broadway musical, follow the journey of one of the most iconic R&B groups in history. 

Spaced Out: Sci-Fi Movie Music  (January 21-22): Relive the classic moments from sci-fi movies including Star Wars and Star Trek with musical renditions from the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra.

February 

Jeff Dunham: Seriously (February 10) : Meet Dunham and his hilarious puppets for an epic comedy show at the Spectrum Center. 

ROUGE (February 11-12): Experience the gravity-defying aerial acts and tantalizing dance of circus artists.

Black Violin: Impossible Tour (February 15): Meet violinists Wil B. and Kev Marcus for a unique blend of classical and hip-hop music. 

Nicole Byer at the Comedy Zone (February 17): Enjoy an evening of laughter with the competition show host and friends.

Beyond the Eats: Alton Brown Live (February 19): A culinary variety show including comedy, music, and cooking demos with the TV food presenter.

March

Desi Banks at the Comedy Zone (March 3-5): Join the social media personality and friends for an evening of laughs.

The Gift (March 12): A musical play to feature a modern-day “Good Samaritan” story about a prominent bishop who is mugged en route to an annual Christmas celebration.

Women in Jazz (March 17-19): Enjoy an all-female instrumentalists performance in honor of Women’s History Month.

WWE Friday Night Smackdown (March 18): Calling wrestling fans! WWE returns to Charlotte to host one of its flagship shows.

Maxwell:The Night Tour (March 17): The Platinum-selling artist returns to the Queen City to perform hit songs including Pretty Wings, Fortunate and more.