Tampa Theatre continues its run of The Great Buck Howard (pictured below), a dramedy about an aspiring writer (played by Colin Hanks) who goes against his father's wishes and drops out of law school to search for some meaningful life experience. Enter new employer Buck Howard (John Malkovich), a once-famous mentalist who's in search of a comeback. Also stars Emily Blunt, Steve Zahn and Tom Hanks. 7:30 p.m., Tampa Theatre, downtown Tampa, $9 adults/$8 students with ID/$7 seniors, military, members.
I was just listening to Sweet Baby James the other day in the car — randomly, not ’cause of James Taylor's show — and it’s … y’know, really, really good. Taylor’s full-bodied voice is still the sonic equivalent of fine cognac. This show is sold out, however, member exchanges may open up some seats (call the box office early), or, if that doesn't pan out, you may find the random extra outside the hall. Good luck. 8 p.m., Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. —Eric Snider
This article appears in Apr 22-28, 2009.