THEATER As the “robots” in Storm Trooper masks started dancing in unison, under flashing strobe lights and thumping techno, I turned to look at the elderly man sitting next to me at the opening night performance of RoboPop! And he was smiling. … If you haven’t had a chance to see Washington Ensemble Theatre’s latest, make time for it this weekend. It closes May 10. (Read our full review here.)

New Century Theatre Company kicks off its sophomore season with On the Nature of Dust, an original comedy by company playwright Stephanie Timm. She tells us about the mother-daughter relationship at its core—and monkeys; read the interview here. Thru May 30.

OPERA When Seattle Opera commissioned its first new opera in 26 years, they had three criteria: That it be an American subject. That it be timely. And that it only have two hours of music. The result, Amelia, opens Saturday. May 8-22.

FILM Not only is SIFF screening the wonderfully wonky Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory on Friday, but they promise goodie bags and Smell-O-Vision. We’ll say it again: Smell-O-Vision. May 7.

CONCERTS Carole King and James Taylor first shared the stage at the Troubador in LA in 1970. Now the folk icons are back on the (country) road for a reunion tour. Tickets are still available. May 9.

BOOKS & TALKS David Sedaris, the humorist with the rock star following, will preview his new book of animal fables at Benaroya Hall on Sunday. Lest you think he’s gone kiddie lit, the title is Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: A Modest Bestiary. May 9.

In SPORTS, the Sounders play top-ranked LA Galaxy on Saturday, and the Mariners host the LA Angels all weekend.

We have our top picks in VISUAL ARTS for this First Thursday.

Looking for Mother’s Day outings?. Click here.