In Brief: Arts events in and around Modesto

Tomas and the Library Lady

ArtWorks productions and the Modesto Junior College theater department present "Tomás and the Library Lady" this weekend at the Gallo Center for the Arts.

The play tells the true 1940s story of a migrant farmworker's son who stumbles into a library after his family moves to Iowa from Texas.

Feeling out of place in his new town, Tomás is welcomed by the librarian and, thanks to her, develops a love for books and knowledge. It's a love that culminates in his becoming a university chancellor.

The production runs today and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. in Foster Family Theatre at the Gallo Center, 1000 I St., Modesto. Tickets are $8-$15. Visit www.galloarts.org or call(209) 338-5000.

Piano Guys added to Gallo Center schedule

Internet music mash-up masters The Piano Guys have been added to the Gallo Center for the Arts schedule for a June 15 show.

Known for classical and pop music mash-ups, The Piano Guys have tens of millions of views on You Tube. The group creates new arrangements of everything from Beethoven's "5th Symphony" to Coldplay's "Paradise."

Only two members are musicians, a pianist and cellist. The other three create, among other things, the original videos that have captured a worldwide following.

Tickets are $19-$64. The Gallo Center is at 1000 I St., Modesto. See www.galloarts.org or call(209) 338-5000.

Musical 'Easter Parade' to screen at State Theatre

The Modesto Film Society's Cinema Club presents the classic Irving Berlin musical "Easter Parade" on Sunday.

"Easter Parade" stars Fred Astaire and Judy Garland. An Oscar winner for its musical score, the cast includes Ann Miller and Peter Lawford.

Tickets are $8 for the 3 p.m screening at the State, 1307 J St., Modesto. For more, see www.thestate.org or call (209) 527-4697.

Presidio Brass

Presidio Brass performs the "Sounds of Cinema" to take audiences on a journey through jazz, classical and movie soundtracks in the next Modesto Community Concert Association presentation.

The San Diego-based quintet combines brass, piano and percussion instruments with original arrangements to present the music of film with wit and humor.

The show is Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the Rogers Theatre at Gallo Center for the Arts, 1000 I St., Modesto. For more, see www.modestoconcert.org.

Japanese tea at Muse

A traditional Japanese tea ceremony will be held March 23 to close the "Art of Tea" exhibit at the Chartreuse Muse in downtown Modesto.

The closing reception runs 2 to 5 p.m., with the tea ceremony at 3. Tickets are $5 for the ceremony; the reception is free. Seating is limited.

The Chartreuse Muse is at 918 10th St., Modesto. Call (209) 522-0935.

Petroglyphe concert

Allen Biggs, principal percussionist for the Santa Rosa Symphony and who has played for "Wicked" in San Francisco, will perform March 24 as part of Petroglyphe Gallery's Spring Sunday Fine Art Concert Series.

Biggs will play the marimba during the performance and will bring some unusual instruments to encourage audience participation, according to a news release.

A reception with light appetizers and wine will be served from 3:30 p.m. until the performance at 4.

Petroglyphe Gallery is two blocks off Highway 49 in Mokelumne Hill.

Tickets for limited seating are $21 in advance, $23 if available at the door. For tickets, see www.gallerypetroglyphe.com or call (209) 286-1387.

— Pat Clark