Election Day is the centerpiece of this week unlike any other happening, but music and arts are not to be missed amidst the political hurly burly. The calendar includes: the opening of the Wisconsin Book Festival; the RAW: Madison awards show; a production of Jersey Boys; a performance by PROJECT Trio; and, more live music from Bob Dylan with Mark Knopfler, Dan Deacon, Shovels & Rope, and Pentatonix.
Monday 11.5
Alliant Energy Center Coliseum, 7:30 pm
See how the raspy-voiced legend's pipes fare on tunes from his new album, Tempest (see Tour Stop). Opener Mark Knopfler might play "Restless Farewell" from Chimes of Freedom, a new compilation of Dylan covers.
Morphy Hall, UW Humanities Building, 7:30 pm
Three virtuosos from Brooklyn, N.Y. -- bassist Peter Seymour, cellist Eric Stephenson and beatboxing flutist Greg Pattillo -- will give the classical-music tradition a modern, urban twist at this free concert.
Majestic Theatre, 8:30 pm
This far-out composer and electronic musician doesn't just perform music; he hosts multidisciplinary happenings more akin to performance art. You'll be asked to participate as he delves into America, a new album that lauds our country's scenic terrain and subtly criticizes its political system. With Alan Resnick, Chester Endersaby Gwazda and Height With Friends.
Tuesday 11. 6
NOTEWORTHY: Meet the Press makes its television debut, 1947.
Wednesday, 11.7
NOTEWORTHY: Museum of Modern Art opens in New York City, 1929.
Through Nov. 11, various venues
Reader, rejoice! The annual event -- moved to November this year -- brings five days' worth of author appearances and workshops. See a preview for highlights.
Majestic Theatre, 7 pm
Forty-three artists in genres ranging from fashion to music to film to hair and make-up duke it out live to see who will go on and to represent our fair city, and perhaps be chosen as Artist of the Year, at the RAWards Finals in L.A.
Overture Hall, 7:30 pm. Also Thursday, Nov. 8, 7:30 pm; through Nov. 25
Finally! A touring version of the Tony-winner for Best Musical comes to Madison, chock-full of irresistible songs, drama and comedy. Jersey Boys recouns the unlikely rise of the 1960s pop group the Four Seasons, known for the likes of "Sherry" and "Big Girls Don't Cry."
Thursday 11.8
NOTEWORTHY: John F. Kennedy narrowly defeats Richard Nixon to become America's 35th president, 1960.
High Noon Saloon, 8 pm
This South Carolina duo have built a huge following on the strength of their live performances, which No Depression has described as "wild and mysterious." With Shivering Timbers.
Majestic Theatre, 8:30 pm
This a capella ensemble won the third season of The Sing-Off with their spirited renditions of Survivor's "Eye of the Tiger," but they can also turn dubsetp, reggae, and hip-hop into shiny Glee-style gems.