In collaboration with the Anchorage Opera and Cyrano's Off-Broadway Playhouse are presenting Caroline, or Change. Written by Tony Kushner and Directed by Teresa Pond, this ‘musical opera' draws from Kushner's childhood in 1963 Louisiana when the Civil Rights Movement changed many people's lives. It's a story of culture, community, race and class through the relationship of a Jewish family and the black maid Caroline. The show runs Wednesdays through Sundays May 7-23. For more information call: 274-599.

It feels like summer is on the way when The Anchorage Market and Festival opens. This year it begins Saturday, May 8 and continues Saturday and Sunday through Sept. 5. Local farmers and artisans sell their goods on Saturdays and Sundays in this downtown festival atmosphere. Enjoy free, lively entertainment and great food while shopping through more than 300 booths. Located at Third Avenue and the ‘E' Street Parking lot. For more information call: 272-5634

Atreyu are coming to the Egan Civic and Convention Center Friday, May 21. I'm plugging this heavy metal concert not only for all the kids who will want to see this butt rock throw back band, but because I know one of the promoters. Of the Promotional Duo of Family Tree and Lizer Theatrical Present, I know Eric Lizer. Lizer is convinced the show will be a smashing success. I believe him. It's been fun to watch him work on this event. Lizer is also the business agent for I.A.T.S.E. Local 918. We're stagehands and it feels like it's going to be a sizzling summer for film, music and festivals. There will be a full bar w/ID. For tickets go to ticketmaster or1-800 745-3000.

I'm writing about The Spenard Roadhouse this week for the second time in this column because I wasn't impressed the first few times I dined there and I said so. Recently I ran in to Shauna, one of the bartender's at the Roadhouse and she convinced me to give the popular eatery another chance. I arrived early in the evening and it was a delightful, culinary experience in every way. When I walked in to the bright and airy restaurant, a friendly and beautiful hostess greeted me. I asked to sit at the bar and noticed that Sauna was working. She encouraged me to order the special roast beef sandwich with Tater Tots.

I decided on a glass of chardonnay and the special sandwich. The service, the ambiance and the customers were all engaging and fun and the food was delicious. After I was served my sandwich and wine, a handsome older gentleman sat down next to me at the bar. When Shauna asked what he wanted he looked over at my plate and my glass of golden yellow wine and said, “I'll have what she's having.”

I laughed and we started up a lively dinner conversation. He informed me that he has been living in Spenard for over 30 years and he enjoyed The Roadhouse. I do too. 1049 West Northern Lights Boulevard, 770-7623.

Write to me: rosebud61155@mac.com or check out my blog at www.rosemondpost.com.