Priority picks for this week include ‘nerd circus,’ Thelonious Monk celebration, more

Create 24

There are deadlines and then there are deadlines. For this project, artists gather, pitch ideas, then break into four groups to create a 5-10 minute performance piece in 24 hours. The audience witnesses the results, votes, and puts a $500 prize into the hands of the winner. Ticket proceeds go to the Haitian community center Sa-K-La-K-Wel. Jan. 20 Indy Convergence Details

Acrobatica Infiniti

What happens when cosplay and circus arts are combined? Find out at this show featuring contortionists, trapeze artists, jugglers and more. And, yes, it's been called nerd circus. What of it? Jan. 20  Warren Performing Arts Center Details

John Beasley's Monk'estra

This 15-piece band aims to capture the spirit of the jazz great. Pianist/arranger Beasley has the chops. He was music director for Thelonious Monk Institute concerts and, while only 18, worked with Monk's bassist Larry Gales. With this group, he pushes to keep the audacity and excitement of the original in live performances. Jan. 20  Palladium Details

Also this week

Gordon Bonham plays a free show at the Artsgarden Jan. 19.

John Coltrane's "A Love Supreme" is performed at the Jazz Kitchen Jan. 21.