The Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts (7380 E. 2nd St., 480/994-2787, www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org) showcases a host of live events, from theater and comedy to music and dancing. The SCA’s white Modernist pavilion, which just underwent an extensive renovation, and its stages have featured a diverse roster of touring acts, like Etta James, Dave Brubeck, Kronos Quartet, and David Sedaris.

Larger shows are held at its Virginia G. Piper Theater (7380 E. 2nd St., 480/994-2787), but you’ll also find touring acts and local performers at Stage 2 (7380 E. 2nd St., 480/994-ARTS, www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org) and Theater 4301 (corner of Drinkwater Blvd. and 5th Ave., 480/994-2787, www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org), which are both located in the Galleria Corporate Centre.

The open-air amphitheater (75th St. and Main St., 480/994-ARTS, www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org), just outside SCA on Scottsdale Mall’s grassy lawn, provides a lovely setting for concerts. Be sure to catch Native Trails, a free show by elaborately costumed Native American performers, which gives attendees the opportunity see a traditional powwow and hoop dancing Thursday and Saturday afternoons, January through early April.

For 50 years, the Louise Lincoln Kerr Cultural Center (6110 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480/596-2660, www.asukerr.com) has served as an artist colony for emerging musicians, artists, and writers. Today, Kerr’s beautifully maintained adobe home and guesthouses provide an intimate setting for jazz, choral, and chamber music performances.