Priority list for the week includes a new Butler University event

This week, the list includes poetry, farce, and a supersized concert.

Divedapper Poetry Carnival

Live music, carnival games, fair food and, yes, poetry, are the key ingredients at this first-time event at Butler University. It’s the brainchild of BU grad Keveh Akbar, who created the poetry site Divedapper.com, and  the emphasis is on joy. Headliners include Aimee Nezhukumatathil, Danez Smith and Heather Christle but don’t worry if those names are unfamiliar. 

May 9-15 Butler University  Details

“The Merry Wives of Windsor”

Often dismissed by Shakespeare scholars, “Merry Wives of Windsor” is rumored to have been written in 14 days at the request of Queen Elizabeth I, who wanted to see more of Sir John Falstaff. That story—as unsubstantiated as it is—does speak to the charm of the character, who previously appeared in Henry IV pts. I and II and is a strong offscreen presence in Henry V. Here, the emphasis is on farce and bawdy wordplay as Falstaff, low on funds, tries to court the title wives, only to have his plans discovered by both the women and their husbands.

May 13-28 IndyFringe Theatre  Details

“Choral Spectacular”

The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s makes room on stage for the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir, Indianapolis Children’s Choir, and Indianapolis Men’s Chorus in a concert that includes pops, Broadway, gospel and light classical tunes.

May 13-14 Hilbert Circle Theatre Details

Also this week

Iibada Dance Company celebrates the music of Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, and Michael Jackson in performances May 12-15 at Marian University Theatre.

Miranda Lambert brings her Keeper of the Flame tour to Klipsch Music Center May 14 while Ellie Goulding opens the season at the Lawn at White River State.

Ji Young Lim, 2014 International Violin Competition of Indianapolis bronze medalist, is joined by pianist Chih-Yi Chen for a May 10 performances of Bach, Shubert, and more at the Indiana History Center.

The Indianapolis Jewish Film Festival, May 12-21 at the Hasten Academy, includes the documentaries “Deli Man,” “Bikel,” and “Broadway Musicals: A Jewish Legacy.”

Todd Rundgren rocks the Palladium May 13.

Clowes Hall hosts Johnny Mathis May 14 as the Jayhawks play the Vogue.

In the Phoenix Theatre’s “The Book of Merman” (note the e) a pair of missionaries arrives at the home of Ethel Merman. It runs May 12-June 12.