The Sactown Weekend Update for Feb. 21-23
The Spring Quartet (Friday)
Tonight, The Spring Quartet—comprised of Argentinean pianist Leo Genovese, saxophonist Joe Lovano, influential drummer Jack DeJohnette and bassist/vocalist Esperanza Spalding (who earned a Grammy Award for best new artist in 2011)—will present an evening of improvisational jazz for the Mondavi Center crowd. Tickets start at $25. Friday at 8 p.m. Mondavi Center’s Jackson Hall. Mrak Hall Dr. and Old Davis Rd. Davis. 530-754-2787. mondaviarts.org
Bill Cosby (Saturday)
The iconic comic and TV star has earned four Emmys and nine Grammys and influenced generations of comedians from Richard Pryor to Louis C.K. But as the title of his “Far From Finished” tour (which follows his recent Comedy Central special of the same name—his first TV concert show in 30 years) suggests, the 76-year-old legend will have plenty left to say on Saturday when he arrives in Sacramento, where he’ll deliver fresh material on familiar topics like dating and marriage. $42.50-$72. Saturday at 8 p.m. Community Center Theater. 1301 L St. 808-5181. tickets.com
Capay Valley Almond Festival (Sunday)
Almond joy abounds on Sunday in this event, timed with the crop’s spectacular yearly bloom and celebrating the region’s prolific almond farmers for nearly a century. The day’s festivities will span the towns of Esparto, Capay, Brooks, Guinda and Rumsey along historic Highway 16, offering a self-guided tour of blossoming trees and events like an almond recipe baking competition. Packages of the nutritious nuts will be available for purchase, as will be tasty treats like almond roca. Free. Sunday at 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Locations vary. Capay Valley. 530-787-3242. capayvalleyalmondfestival.com
Don McLean (Sunday)
Pop-folk troubadour and Songwriters Hall of Fame honoree Don McLean comes to the Crest this Sunday to perform his anthemic classics like “Vincent” and “American Pie,” the latter of which was voted fifth on the Recording Industry Association of America and National Endowment for the Arts’ joint list of the 365 greatest songs of the 20th century. $45-$65. Sunday at 7:30 p.m. Crest Theatre. 1013 K St. 800-225-2277. sblentertainment.com
