Events: Out & About in September 2013

The ’Jays and Clay

Whether you’re looking for some soothing R&B or a night of raucous laughter, the Mid-Hudson Civic Center has something for you this month. The O’Jays — the legendary Motown R&B group that boasts 24 top-10 records, including the mega-hit “Love Train” — make a rare Valley appearance (Sept. 21 at 9 p.m. $48.50-$101.50). The center also welcomes Andrew Dice Clay, one of America’s most controversial and outrageous comedians (he remains the only performer to be banned from MTV since its inception in 1981), for what’s sure to be an edgy but hilarious show (Sept. 22 at 7:30 p.m. $31-$66.50). 14 Civic Center Plaza, Poughkeepsie. 845-454-5800 or www.midhudsonciviccenter.org

Sax attack: West Point’s Jazz Knights are part of a Labor Day celebration

Soldier’s salute

Although summer is coming to a close, there’s still reason to celebrate. Bring a blanket and a lawn chair to enjoy the West Point Band’s Music Under the Stars season finale, featuring performances by all of the academy’s musical groups. Amid the music and festivities, guests experience breathtaking views from Trophy Point — complete with vistas of the Hudson and Catskill Mountains. And a cannon-firing ceremony and fireworks top off the already entertainment-packed evening. Sept. 1 at 6 p.m. Call or visit Web site for more information. U.S.M.A. campus, West Point. 845-938-2617 or www.westpointband.com

Osborne onstage

Multi-platinum singer-songwriter Joan Osborne takes the stage as part of Bethel Wood’s intimate gallery concert series. The seven-time Grammy nominee made her debut in 1995 with the album Relish. Today, nearly 20 years later, she is best known for her hit single, “One of Us,” as well as her collaboration with the Grateful Dead. Her most recent release, 2012’s Bring It On Home, was nominated for a Grammy for best blues album. This month, Osborne returns to the state where she put down her musical roots for this solo concert. Sept. 13 at 8 p.m. $40-$48. Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. 200 Hurd Rd., Bethel. 866-781-2922 or www.bethelwoodscenter.org   

Art of the everyday

British artist Helen Marten makes her U.S. museum debut in this exhibition at the Center for Curatorial Studies at Bard College. Marten’s installation, playfully dubbed “No borders in a wok that can’t be crossed,” includes a variety of media from sculptures to wall pieces and videos, many of which were created specifically for this CCS Bard exhibit. Aside from exploring ownership, language, and symbolism, Marten investigates the importance of physical reality by examining everyday materials and turning their intended uses on their heads. Thurs.-Mon. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. through Sept. 22. Bard College campus, Annandale-on-Hudson. 845-758-7598 or www.bard.edu/ccs

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