Movement Minus Politics

In a few short months, the Beijing Olympics will commence. And if recent weeks are any indication, they will be accompanied by a flood of human-rights-centered protests, threats of boycott by various heads of state, and the usual fanfaronade from the Chinese government about the great attention it pays to civil liberties — much evidence to the contrary, of course. Before all of that, get a glimpse of some beautiful Chinese culture tonight at 7:30 during the Divine Performing Arts Chinese Spectacular. This event at Yardley Hall on the Johnson County Community College campus (12345 College Boulevard in Overland Park, 913-469-8500) showcases ancient Chinese dance, songs, instruments, acrobatics and martial arts against a 3-D animated backdrop — all without, organizers take care to note, any influence of the Chinese Communist Party. The show aims to deliver messages of peace and compassion. Tickets cost $30 to $100; for more information, see AIDS Walk.
Sat., April 26, 8 a.m., 2008