Wow, there’s so much happening in the city right now, it was tough putting the Must List together — which is not a bad problem to have. For instance, folksinger and songwriter Ani DiFranco takes the stage at The Moore this Saturday, Feb. 1. GRINDHAUS, a wild mix of drag and performance art, hits The Crocodile this weekend. And Lunar New Year celebrations are in full swing.

We also had the pleasure of chatting with Yeardley Smith about her true crime podcast, Small Town Dicks, which is coming to Seattle Feb. 6. And have you heard about Starbucks’ latest changes? The company is bringing back ceramic mugs and handwritten notes. And, I can’t stop saying “undie run” — it’s just too fun. Lastly, are you keeping up with our Most Influential profiles? Jaci McCormack, Delaney Ruston, and Samantha Holloway are three of the city’s best. 

Now, let’s get into this week’s picks — and be sure to check our calendar if it’s something else you’re looking for.

Strange Brewfest No.19

Jan. 31-Feb. 1
The American Legion Hall Post 26, Port Townsend, 21+ event
$30

Beer is fun and delicious! And what’s more Pacific Northwest than pushing your taste buds to the limit with weirdly flavored brews? More than 35 brewers and cider makers are crafting wacky concoctions at this festival celebrating all things hoppy and unconventional. Live music and a fun atmosphere make it a solid excuse to get out of town for the weekend — especially for anyone up for trying some weird flavors. This is a 21+ event. 

Blues for an Alabama Sky

Jan. 30-Feb. 23
Seattle Rep
$23+

Set in 1930s Harlem, Blues for an Alabama Sky follows a group of friends navigating love, ambition, and survival during the Great Depression. Playwright Pearl Cleage delivers a story full of rich characters and deep meaning. As The Guardian says, it’s “a message for our times.” Well, you can’t beat that.

Kodō One Earth Tour 2025: Warabe

Jan. 31-Feb. 1
Meany Center
$74+

You know that feeling when music hits so deep your chest starts thumping? Kodo delivers exactly that. Japan’s legendary taiko ensemble brings thunderous rhythms that are impossible to ignore. They’re said to play with the spirit of children — full of energy, focus, and playfulness. It sounds like an experience that’ll stay with you.

 

The Sleeping Beauty

Jan. 31-Feb. 9
McCaw Hall
$30+

Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty gets a fresh reimagining — complete with new sets, costumes, and a Pacific Northwest-inspired fairyland. The scenic design by Preston Singletary and costumes from Paul Tazewell all look so pretty. This show will be stunning, no doubt. 

 

Hamilton

Feb. 4-March 2
The Paramount Theatre
$139+

People really love this show. Like, really go hard for it. Lin-Manuel Miranda might be a household name now, but this is essentially what kicked it all off. With its blend of hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and Broadway, Hamilton tells the story of founding father Alexander Hamilton. It redefined theater and left a big ol’ mark on culture. 

Movie Club: Tampopo

Wednesday, Feb. 5, 6 p.m.
SIFF Cinema Uptown
$11.50

This is one of my all-time favorite films. I first watched it years ago on a date with my now-husband — it’s his favorite movie. Dubbed the first “ramen western,” Tampopo follows a handsome drifter, his sidekick, and a noodle shop owner on a quest to make the perfect bowl of ramen. There’s so much more going on, but we’ll leave it at that. This 4K restoration will make seeing Juzo Itami’s 1985 classic on the big screen even better. 

Visit our events calendar for more ideas.