Fire on the Mountain — through April 30
The coalfields have produced some of the most vivid and sorrowful stories in American history. And while mines dry up and people move on, the culture of American mining communities lives on today. Fire on the Mountain, a new musical by Randal Myler and Dan Wheetman, blends the oral history and traditional songs of the coal miners. It’s a powerful tribute you won’t want to miss. Stage Theatre, Denver Performing Arts Center, 14th and Curtis streets. Ticket prices vary. Show times vary. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 303-893-4100 or visit www.dcpa.org.

Edge of Abstraction — April 8-30
A favorite among artists and collectors in Denver, the annual Edge of Abstraction show at Abend Gallery displays the work of local artists who walk the line between representation and abstraction. Look for work by breakout artists Jill Soukup and Michelle Torrez. Who knows, you could find the perfect piece for the empty wall behind the couch. Opening reception, Friday, April 8, 5 to 9 p.m. Gallery hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Abend Gallery, 2260 E. Colfax Ave., 303-355-0950 or visit www.abendgallery.com.

4th Annual Mutts and Models Celebrity
Canine Fashion Show — April 8
Benefiting the Harrison Memorial Animal Hospital, this delightful fashion show features Denver celebrities wearing duds from local boutiques. The main attraction of course is that each model struts down the catwalk with a four-legged friend. The night also includes drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction. If you have a dog that plays well with others, bring him along. Fri 7:30 p.m. Rise Nightclub, 1909 Blake St. Ticket prices vary. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 303-722-2100 ext. 321.

Sting — April 12
Sting is known the world over for his unparalleled vocals, storied career, and sex appeal. With nearly 30 albums to his credit, Sting released his most recent album, My Funny Valentine—At the Movies, in March of this year. The former Police front man can also be heard on the newest Bruce Hornsby album, Halcyon Days, doing background vocals—a pastime for which he has become famous. But this week Sting brings his Broken Music tour to the University of Denver campus. Tuesday 7:30 p.m., Magness Arena on the DU campus at East Evans Avenue and University Boulevard. $40.50, $60.50. For tickets, call 303-830-TIXS.