MUSIC
Ted Neeley performs Sunday, April 7 at Thalian Hall. Neeley, on tour to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Jesus Christ Superstar film in which he played the title role. Neeley and the Little Big Band will perform selections from that rock musical as well as others including Hair and Tommy. Tickets are $30-40. Info: 632-2285

R&B vocal group The Manhattans take the stage Friday, April 5 for
its 50th anniversary tour. The Manhattans, the group behind hits such as “Kiss and Say Goodbye” and “Dance to a Love Song” perform at UNCW’s Kenan Auditorium. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30-40. Info: 962-3500

FILM
The Visions Film Festival and Conference, organized by UNCW’s film students, takes place April 3-5. Short films shown at Lumina Theater and conference panels will be part of the all-undergraduate, peer-reviewed film festival showcasing rising filmmakers and film scholars. Info: www.visionsfilm.org

FAMILY FUN
The N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher on April 5-6 holds Little Ripples, Big Waves, a family-friendly event showcasing how everyday actions can make a big difference for the planet and community. The event features games, demonstrations, talks with local experts, animal feedings and interactive dive shows. Visitors will discover how the changing climate impacts sea turtles and how to help during this year’s nesting season. N.C. Zoo educators will give a
special program on polar bears at 11:30 a.m. Friday, April 5. Little Ripples, Big Waves is free with
aquarium admission. Info: www.ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher

Pretty In Pink Foundation sponsors a “Pack It Up” Yard Sale 7 a.m.-noon Saturday, April 6 in the parking lot of Wilmington Plastic Surgery, 1404 Commonwealth Drive. Individual sellers will have booths as well as Pretty In Pink, which has been accepting donated items to also sell with proceeds going to help pay for breast cancer treatments for local women. Info: 620-9871

The Cape Fear Astronomical Society will hold a night sky viewing Friday, April 5 as part of a statewide Star Party to introduce the public to night sky observing. There will be two locations for the public viewings – Airlie Gardens and Carolina Beach State Park – starting at sunset (7:19 p.m.) and lasting until 9:45 p.m. Info: www.capefearastro.org

The N.C. Azalea Festival’s Children’s Art Contest gallery
opening is Friday, April 5. More
than 280 entries were submitted
from elementary and middle school students in the area. Artwork will be displayed at the Community Arts Center in the Hannah Block USO building, 120 S. Second St. Info: www.ncazaleafestival.org

RACES
The 4th annual Azalea Festival 5K/10K/Fun Walk to benefit the Cape Fear Volunteer Center’s Big Buddy program takes place Saturday, April 6. The run starts at Mayfaire Town Center at the Try Sports Field. There will be prizes for top male and female runners, as well as a prize for best costume. The race starts at 8 a.m., with day-of registration 6:30-7:30 a.m. The entry fee $35 on race day. Youth participants under 12 can run for free, though there is a $5 fee for them if they want a timed bib. Info: www.azaleafestivalbigbuddy5k.com

Men, Ink. holds its 2nd annual Hecathlon 3-5 p.m. Saturday, April 6. Downtown Wilmington businesses will host 10 guy-friendly events. The race, headquartered at Orton’s, 133 N. Front St., is open to those 21 and older, and there will be an after party. Info: www.menink.com

ART
The Bellamy Mansion on Friday, April 5 hosts an art opening for an Ivey Hayes Retrospective, featuring the artwork of Hayes who died last year. The exhibit of paintings by Hayes, who grew up and lived in the area, will be on display at the Bellamy Mansion through May 17. Friday’s free premiere will be 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the house museum, 503 Market St. Info: 251-3700
 
THEATER
The Thalian Association Children’s Theater (TACT) presents a musical revue April 5-7 and 12-14 at the Hannah Block Historic USO Community Arts Center, 120 S. Second St. Performers will showcase a number of pieces encompassing styles from Broadway to classical to pop music. Info: www.thalian.org