A king and a prince

With the advent of spring, people’s thoughts turn to gardening, Marshmallow Peeps and Jesus. In tune with the season, Garbeau’s Dinner Theatre is staging the 1970s rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar, complete with long hair; rope sandals; and catchy, sing-along harmonies. Don’t expect the bloody torture scenes of The Passion of the Christ. (Graphic violence makes a poor dinner companion.)

In fact, this production is so family-friendly, it’s the premiere play for Garbeau’s “Kids First Time” program. In an effort to expose children to the joys of theater—and, really, how can you compete with watching the Last Supper during your supper?—Garbeau’s offers a free dinner-and-show package to children under 12 who have never seen a live theater performance. Each first-timer must be accompanied by a paying adult. Performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m. through May 23. Adult tickets are $34-$39 for dinner and the show. Garbeau’s is located at 12401 Folsom Boulevard in Rancho Cordova. Call (916) 985-6361 for reservations.

And speaking of miracles, (Jesus, miracles—connect the dots with me) the artist formerly known as the artist formerly known as Prince has decided to let the masses witness his legendary concerts. Sort of. By the time most of us hear about one of Prince’s notoriously tiny, short-notice shows, it’s usually sold out. But Prince feels for us. He really does. That’s why Monday’s Prince concert in Los Angeles will be simulcast to the Natomas Marketplace Regal 16 theaters, located at 3561 Truxel Road, at 8 p.m. The $15-$17.50 admission includes a free copy of his new Musicology CD. It’s not the same as front-row seats at the Staples Center, but I guarantee the bathroom line will be shorter. Tickets are available at the box office or at www.RegalCM.com.