AFRICAN NIGHTS

Friday-Saturday: Twin Cities dancer/choreographer/arts activist Kenna-Camara Cottman is known for her work in underground hip-hop and African dance. Now she has added a new title: bandleader. Cottman has put together a Fela-style African band for an evening of genre-crossing performances at the gorgeously renovated Patrick's Cabaret. The show, like a happening or love-in, combines music with dance, fashion with storytelling. Cottman herself plays drums in the band that also features dancer/choreographer Leah Nelson on shekere.

STANDING ON CEREMONY: THE GAY MARRIAGE PLAYS

Opening: While some Minnesotans push a proposed constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage, theater artists are exploring the issues onstage. Director Wendy Knox of Frank Theatre stages this anthology of short plays with works by Jeffrey Hatcher, Neil LaBute, Mo Gaffney, Doug Wright and Paul Rudnick. The cast of local stars includes Laura Adams, Aimee K. Bryant, Shanan Custer, Shawn Hamilton and Jim Lichtscheidl.