thursday, july 30
Ben Folds Live
Between a successful solo career as singer/songwriter and his star turns leading Ben Folds Five, the man himself has become an alternative pop/rock legend. Just as exciting as his live concerts has been his thoughtful engagement with evolving technology and online media. A classy, cutting edge night at the Summer Pops.
Embarcadero Marina Park South, 206 Marina Park Way in San Diego, 7:30 p.m., tickets from $20, 619-235-0804, sandiegosymphony.org
friday, july 31
Amy
Amy tells the incredible story of six-time Grammy winner Amy Winehouse – in her own words. Featuring extensive unseen archive footage and previously unheard tracks, this strikingly modern, moving and vital film shines a light on the world we live in, in a way that very few can. A once-in-a-generation talent, Amy Winehouse was a musician that captured the world’s attention. A pure jazz artist in the most authentic sense – she wrote and sung from the heart using her musical gifts to analyze her own problems.
Hillcrest Cinemas, 3965 Fifth Ave. in the heart of the Uptown District, 1:20, 4:10, 7:10 and 10 p.m., tickets $9.50, $11.50 from 4:10 p.m., 619-298-2904, landmarktheatres.com
saturday, aug. 1
2015 Surf Dog Competition – Unleashed by Petco
Get stoked! It’s time for the most adorable surf event of the year. At the 2015 Unleashed by Petco Surf Dog Competition, the most fearless dogs will jump on their boards, paddle out and hang 20! This event must be seen to be believed. Bring the whole family for a day of rad competitions, goodies and fun!
Imperial Beach Pier, 2 Elder Ave. in Imperial Beach, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., 619-424-4000, unleashedby.petco.com/surfdog
sunday, aug. 2
Bill Maher
For the last eighteen years, Bill Maher has set the boundaries of where funny, political talk can go on American television. First on Politically Incorrect (Comedy Central, ABC, 1993-2002), and for the last seven years on HBO’s Real Time, Maher’s combination of unflinching honesty and big laughs have garnered him twenty-one Emmy nominations. In October of 2008, this same combination was on display in Maher’s uproarious and unprecedented swipe at organized religion, Religulous, directed by Larry Charles (Borat). The documentary has gone on to become the seventh highest grossing documentary ever.
Humphreys Concerts by the Bay, 2241 Shelter Island Dr., 8 p.m., tickets $80, 800-745-3000, humphreysconcerts.com
monday, aug. 3
Missy Andersen
Born in Detroit and living in San Diego by way of Queens, New York, Missy Andersen follows her self-titled debut with a timeless follow-up of blues going straight to the spirit and body. With her band leader/guitarist/husband Heine Andersen, she has again created a personal soundtrack for good times and the pain and joys of love.
Humphreys Backstage Live, 2241 Shelter Island Drive San Diego, 7 p.m., $5 cover, 619-224-3577, humphreysbackstagelive.com
tuesday, aug. 4
Twilight in the Park
For 35 years, Twilight’s live music under the stars has been delighting visitors. The music program ranges from military bands and Dixieland jazz, to big band swing and Latin salsa. Concerts run all the way through to Aug. 27. Tonight: Heliptrope – 1915 in the park. Special theme-oriented activities to help celebrate the Balboa Park Centennial start at 5:30 pm and will feature antique cars, barbershop quartet, dancing lessons and historical information.
Spreckels Organ Pavilion, El Prado in Balboa Park, 5:30-7:15 p.m., free, 619-325-9541, twilightconcerts.net
wednesday, aug. 5
SummerFest Under the Stars
Come to the famous La Jolla Cove and join SummerFest Music Director Cho-Liang Lin for a free concert to kick off the festival. Bring your picnic and enjoy this wonderful, family-friendly SummerFest tradition featuring a stunning ocean backdrop!
Ellen Browning Scripps Park, 1133 Coast Blvd. in La Jolla, 7 p.m., free, http://ljms.org/ai1ec_event/free-outdoor-concert-summerfest-stars-2015/
