Charleston this weekend

The Greatest Show On Earth
Cirque du Soleil isn't your typical kind of circus. For more than 20 years, Cirque has amazed crowd after crowd, combining traditional circus elements with acrobatics and a street performing flair. Today through Sunday, you have a chance to be a part of the phenomenon with the company's latest show, Alegria, showing at the North Charleston Coliseum. "Alegria," a Spanish word that translates to "joy" in English, is a celebration of youth and its power, as well as growth. There are several different performance times, and tickets range from $35-90. To get admission into "the big tent," go online.

Using Music to Heal the World

Watching the news and learning about all the suffering in the world can create a feeling of helplessness. There is, however, something you can do. At 7 p.m. Sunday, head over to the Music Farm for Above the Noise, a benefit concert to spread awareness of human slavery in Africa and to raise money for the underprivileged individuals involved. The lineup consists of Ryan Bailey & Cumberland Belle, Luke Cunningham and the Explorers Club, with a special appearance from Irene Rose Smith. Tickets are $10 in advance online, $15 at the door.

Enjoying the Arts
 Grab the family or some friends for the Town of Mount Pleasant's 15th annual ArtFest. From noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, immerse yourself in the arts with dancing, music, street performers and artworks. The event includes some first-time performers, with an 11:45 a.m. kickoff concert from Wando High School's new steel drum band and a noon concert featuring American Indian-style flute maker and recording artist Hawk Hurst. There will be art exhibits, a Lucky Dog fashion show, crafts and kids activities. Everything takes place at Mount Pleasant Towne Centre. There's no charge to attend. For more information, call Nicole Harvey or Tracy Richter at 843-884-8517.

Shall We Dance?

Who needs Dancing with the Stars when you can dance with the locals? Elite Dance International Studio & Apparel is holding its Spring Formal Ball from 6:30-10 p.m. Sunday at the studio, 709-B U.S. Highway 17 N. Dance until your feet hurt with a night of open dancing and dance performances. There will be wine and hors d'oeuvres — because what would a ball be without food? Additionally, test your luck in an art auction and raffle tickets. Tickets for the ball are $15. For more details, call Elite at 843-654-1011.

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