2010 Japanese film The Secret World of Arrietty (借りぐらしのアリエッティ) in 4K in Pittsburgh, May 19.

The 2010 Japanese film The Secret World of Arrietty(借りぐらしのアリエッティ) will have a special 4K screening in Pittsburgh on May 19.

In a secret world hidden beneath the floorboards, tiny people called Borrowers live out of sight of humans. But when brave Arrietty is out gathering supplies, she is discovered by Shawn, a human boy, and they begin to form a friendship that blossoms into a heartwarming adventure.

There are two shows at the AMC Loews Waterfront and tickets are available online. The 1:00 pm show is dubbed in English while the 4:00 pm show is in Japanese with English subtitles.

2006 Japanese animated film Tekkonkinkreet (鉄コン筋クリート) in Pittsburgh for 20th anniversary, May 31 and June 1.

The 2006 Japanese animated film Tekkonkinkreet (鉄コン筋クリート) will have special 20th anniversary screenings on May 31 and June 1.

Black, a boy who seeks to bend the city to his will through strength, and White, his innocent counterpart, are two orphaned street kids living in the slums of Treasure Town. When real estate developers threaten to transform Treasure Town into a massive theme park, its very existence is put at risk. Determined to protect both White and their city, Black takes on the yakuza and assassins, gradually losing his innocence as he confronts a dark manifestation within himself. Featuring dynamic visuals from STUDIO4? (Mind Game) and based on the legendary manga by Taiyo Matsumoto, Tekkonkinkreet remains a beloved cult classic to this day. Set in a world that cannot escape change, it tells a story of unwavering love, complementary bonds, and a prayer that must never be lost. Now beautifully remastered in stunning 4K.

It is scheduled to play locally, so far, at the AMC Loews Waterfront and the Cinemark theater in Robinson, and tickets are available online. Some shows are dubbed in English while others are in Japanese with English subtitles.

2026 TXT MOA CON IN JAPAN: LIVE VIEWING in Pittsburgh, May 24.

2026 TXT MOA CON IN JAPAN: LIVE VIEWING will play in Pittsburgh on May 24.

'2026 TXT MOA CON IN JAPAN: LIVE VIEWING’ is coming to cinemas worldwide! A special concert prepared exclusively for MOA to celebrate TOMORROW X TOGETHER's 7th debut anniversary, [2026 TXT MOA CON]. Experience a powerful live band performance and special solos, showcasing each member’s unique talent. Following the exciting concerts in Seoul, the tour heads to Nagoya, marking the opening of 2026 TXT MOA CON IN JAPAN. You can experience all the intensity and excitement of the concert in your local cinema! Feel the energy of five members transformed into powerful rock stars, brought to life on the big screen. Join us on May 24th for a live viewing from the Aichi’s IG Arena in Nagoya, Japan, to cinemas worldwide!

It plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront and the Cinemark theaters in Monroeville and Robinson, and tickets are available online.

2026 Japanese animated movie That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime the Movie: Tears of the Azure Sea (劇場版 転生したらスライムだった件 蒼海の涙編) continues in Pittsburgh through May 14.

The 2026 Japanese animated movie That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime the Movie: Tears of the Azure Sea (劇場版 転生したらスライムだった件 蒼海の涙編), which opened in Pittsburgh on April 30, will remain here through at least May 14.

After concluding the opening ceremony of the Demon Kingdom Federation Tempest, Rimuru and his companions are invited by the Celestial Emperor Hermesia of the great elven nation – the Magi Dynasty Salion – to visit her private resort island. As the group enjoys their brief vacation, a mysterious woman named Yura appears. A new incident unfolds against the backdrop of the boundless azure sea.

It will play locally through May 6 at the AMC Loews Waterfront and the Cinemark theater in Robinson, and tickets are available online.

Shabu Shabu Hot Pot and Grill opens in McCandless after coming soon for 1,000 days.

Via Town of McCandless Open Discussion Facebook Group. 

After a wait of over 1,000 days, Shabu Shabu Hot Pot and Grill in McCandless opened on May 5. Work had been underway since Summer 2023 on the second Shabu Shabu location in Pittsburgh, after its first opened in Robinson in June 2025. It occupies a building shared with Midwest Shooting Center across from LaRoche University (map).

A big Pittsburgh restaurant trend in 2023 and 2024 was planning, and sometimes opening, all-you-can-eat Korean-style BBQ and hot pot places. Several places did ultimately open, like Hong BBQ on McKnight Road, a second Shabu Shabu Hot Pot and Grill in Robinson (which has since become the first), among a couple others, while Korean BBQ in Oakland was famously delayed and the Kpot in Squirrel Hill ultimately pulled the plug in 2025 after two years of inactivity.

2024 film Didi (弟弟) returns to Pittsburgh, May 13.

The 2024 Sean Wang film Didi (弟弟) will return to Pittsburgh at the Kamin Science Center's Rangos Giant Cinema on May 13.

Sean Wang makes his directorial debut with “Didi,” a film for anyone who’s ever been a teenager. Set in 2008, this film follows the summer of a 13-year-old Taiwanese-American boy as he navigates life as a first generation American, changing friendships, and the dawn of social media. Don’t miss this 2024 Sundance Film Festival winning feature when it comes to the Rangos Giant Cinema on Wed., May 13 at 7 p.m.

It previously played here in August and September 2024. The Kamin Science Center, formerly known as the Carnegie Science Center, is located at 1 Allegheny Ave. on the North Shore (map).

Yo! Brew nears completion on Duquesne University campus.

Signage is up for Yo! Brew, a bubble tea place and bakery opening soon on the Duquense University campus. Locust St. under Brottier Hall. (map), in what was formerly a Subway, and comes via the team behind Yotea & Yoka Kitchen in North Oakland and YOYO Panda in Allison Park. Work began on the spot last spring, and onership says it intends to open very soon, with a soft opening date to be announced shortly.

Work progresses on YangGuoFu Mala Tang in Squirrel Hill.

Permanent signage is up on YangGuoFu Mala Tang in Squirrel Hill, where work has been underway since late fall on the new Chinese chain with locations in California, New York, and elsewhere in the US.

Indulge in the perfect blend of fresh ingredients and bold flavors, combined to create a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Our Mala Tang offerings are carefully crafted for those seeking a healthy yet delicious meal option.

It will be located at 5870 Forbes Ave. (map) in what was most recently Evelyn James Interiors. It was initially eyeing openings in January and March.

2026 Japanese movie Labyrinth (迷宮のしおり) in Pittsburgh, May 10 and 11.

The 2026 Japanese movie Labyrinth (迷宮のしおり) will play in Pittsburgh on May 10 and 11.

Shiori is a typical high school student who dreams of online stardom, but struggles to capture attention. After an embarrassing video of her goes viral, she gets trapped in her smartphone and replaced by a charismatic alter ego. As the doppelganger charms the internet and devises a nefarious plot to replace mankind with brainrot, Shiori must partner with other online outcasts to stop her digital counterpart and reclaim her life in the real world. Labyrinth is the first original feature film from legendary creator Shoji Kawamori, who is known for his electrifying fusion of pop music with science fiction. Featuring the voice of SUZUKA from music sensation ATARASHII GAKKO!, Kawamori’s latest film is a wildly imaginative adventure about finding oneself while navigating the perils of social media.

It plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront, the AMC Westmoreland in Greensburg, and the Cinemark theater in Robinson, and tickets are available online.

ENHYPEN Immersion in Cinemas in Pittsburgh, May 13.

The concert film ENHYPEN Immersion in Cinemas will play in Pittsburgh on May 13.

Captured with cutting-edge VR technology, the film surrounds fans with sweeping visuals and a heightened sense of presence that mirrors every beat, movement, and moment. The result is not just a concert – it’s a front-row, all-access experience that blurs the line between audience and artist. Featuring powerhouse performances of global hits like “Bite Me” and “XO (Only If You Say Yes)”, alongside the emotionally charged fan anthem “Highway 1009”, ENHYPEN delivers a dynamic set fueled by precision, intensity, and connection. This is more than a show. It’s a new level of immersion-only in theatres.

The 53-minute experience plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront and the Cinemark theater in Robinson, and tickets are available online.

Korean bluegrass band Country Gongbang in Pittsburgh, June 13.

The Korean bluegrass band Country Gongbang will play in Pittsburgh on June 13, part of the Three Rivers Arts Festival.

Country Gongbang is South Korea’s first and only bluegrass band, pioneering a distinctive blend of contemporary bluegrass with K‑pop sensibilities. Singing in both English and Korean, the group bridges musical cultures while carving out a unique voice in the global bluegrass scene.

In 2023, Country Gongbang received the International Band Performance Grant from the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA), recognizing their groundbreaking artistry. The award led to their historic 2024 U.S. tour, where they performed at major venues and festivals, including the legendary Grand Ole Opry in Nashville—becoming the first Korean band to perform on its iconic stage.

In 2025, the group was nominated for the IBMA Momentum Awards for Band of the Year and Vocalist of the Year, marking a historic milestone for a Korean bluegrass ensemble.

The band features Yebin Kim (mandolin, lead vocals), Hyunho Jang (banjo), Jongsu Yoon (fiddle), Sunjae Won (guitar), and Keeha Song (bass).

Blending tradition with bold innovation, Country Gongbang brings a vibrant new perspective to bluegrass music.

“South Korea’s Country Gongbang demonstrates that the basics of bluegrass aren’t limited exclusively to the realms of the western world.”
— Bluegrass Today

 The show runs from 6:00 to 7:00 pm at Dollar Bank Stage @ Arts Landing.

Eastern Passage 东方之旅 soft opens downtown.

Eastern Passage 东方之旅---a retail store specializing in Asian apparel, artisan crafts, and cultural souvenirs---soft opened in downtown Pittsburgh last week, part of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership's Project Pop-up. Some context, from the Pittsburgh Chinese Culture Center's newsletter:

Coming soon to downtown Pittsburgh! Eastern Passage 东方之旅 – a retail store specializing in Asian apparel, artisan crafts, and cultural souvenirs is scheduled to open in April 2026. Located in the historic Park Building at 355 Fifth Avenue, the store is part of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership’s Project Pop-Up that will turn a vacant storefront into a vibrant cultural destination. We are particularly interested in promoting artworks and crafts by local artisans. Contact us for more information at easternpassagepgh@gmail.com.

匹兹堡市中心即将迎来新店开业！ 东方之旅 (Eastern Passage) 是一家专注于亚洲服饰、手工艺品及文化纪念品的零售店，将于 2026 年 4 月下旬开业。 该店坐落于第五大道355 号的历史性建筑Park Building，作为匹兹堡市中心伙伴关系 (Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership) “快闪项目” (Project Pop-Up) 的一部分，我们将把原本闲置的店面转变为充满活力的文化地标。 我们尤其注重推广本地艺术家和与手工艺人的作品。 欲了解更多详情，请联系我们：easternpassagepgh@gmail.com 。

2008 film Ponyo (崖の上のポニョ) at Rangos Giant Cinema, May 8.

The 2008 film Ponyo (崖の上のポニョ) will play at the Rangos Giant Cinema on May 8, part of its Studio Ghibli Series in May.

Welcome to a world where anything is possible. Hayao Miyazaki’s “Ponyo” is a visual delight and narrative joy, following the story of Sosuke and the friendship he forges with a goldfish unlike any other – and now you have the chance to be immersed in the ocean of colors like never before with a special screening at the Rangos Giant Cinema at 7 p.m. on Fri., May 8!

Tickets are available online. The Kamin Science Center, formerly known as the Carnegie Science Center, is located at 1 Allegheny Ave. on the North Shore (map).

2018 movie Crazy Rich Asians in Pittsburgh, from May 8.

The 2018 movie Crazy Rich Asians will play in Pittsburgh from May 8.

Rachel Chu is happy to accompany her longtime boyfriend, Nick, to his best friend's wedding in Singapore. She's also surprised to learn that Nick's family is extremely wealthy, and he's considered one of the country's most eligible bachelors. Thrust into the spotlight, Rachel must now contend with jealous socialites, quirky relatives and something far, far worse -- Nick's disapproving mother.

It is scheduled to play locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront and AMC Westmoreland in Greensburg, and tickets are available online.

KPop Demon Hunters A Sing-Along Event returns to Pittsburgh, from June 15.

The KPop Demon Hunters A Sing-Along Event movie returns to Pittsburgh on June 15, 17, and 18.

We're goin' up, up, up — and now it's YOUR moment! Back by popular demand on Halloween weekend, seal the Honmoon and sing your favorite "KPop Demon Hunters" songs with HUNTR/X and the Saja Boys in this full-length, sing-along version of the Netflix hit film.

It last played in Pittsburgh in August and October 2025. It is scheduled to play, so far, at the Cinemark theater in Monroeville, and tickets are available online.

Katsura Sunshine's Rakugo, May 8 in North Hills.

Canadian rakugo comic storyteller Katsura Sunshine will perform in the Pittsburgh area on May 8.

Katsura Sunshine headlines Pittsburgh's newest comedy club experience for one night only!

A show of hilarity and culture in equal doses!

​Katsura Sunshine completed his grueling traditional apprenticeship in Rakugo comic storytelling under the great Rakugo Master Katsura Bunshi VI in 2011. His performances have delighted audiences throughout the world as well as all over Japan. Sunshine has graced the Broadway stage with a different delightful Japanese story each month since 2019, at the famous New World Stages in Manhattan. Come for an hour of laughter and leave with a piece of Japan in you heart!

He will perform at The Comedy Bar @ Remo's in the North Hills (map). The show starts at 7:00 pm and tickets are available online. Please note, the venue has a two item minimum it charges on top of the ticket fee.

My Hero Academia In Concert, October 23 at Carnegie Library Music Hall of Homestead.

The Carnegie Library Music Hall of Homestead will host My Hero Academia in Concert on October 23.

Join the ultimate celebration of heroism as My Hero Academia In Concert brings a decade of unforgettable moments to life! From Deku’s first steps to the thrilling battles, this live concert experience immerses fans in the anime’s full eight season journey like never before.

Set on stage with a powerful 15-piece live band performing Yuki Hayashi’s iconic score, every note captures the triumph, heartbreak, and heroism of the series. The concert seamlessly blends dynamic music with striking visuals of the anime’s most memorable scenes, creating a fully immersive journey that puts fans in the heart of the action.

Celebrate 10 years of My Hero Academia as the stage comes alive with epic hero moments, inspiring characters, and “Plus Ultra” energy that resonates with fans of all ages. This is not just a concert, it’s a heroic adventure, a musical tribute, and an emotional journey rolled into one unforgettable musical experience.

Whether you’ve been following Deku and Class 1-A since the beginning or are discovering the series for the first time, My Hero Academia In Concert promises an unforgettable evening that honors the legacy of the world’s favorite heroes. Don’t miss your chance to experience this decade-long journey of courage, friendship, and music live on stage.

The shows starts at 8:00 pm. Tickets, ranging from $63.71 to $99.11, are available online. The Carnegie Music Hall is located at 510 E. 10th Ave. (map).

Kiyoshi Kurosawa films Chime (チャイム), Serpent's Path (蛇の道) in Pittsburgh, May 3 - 6.

The Kiyoshi Kurosawa films Chime (チャイム) and Serpent's Path (蛇の道) will play in Pittsburgh from May 3 through 6.

Two masterworks from Kiyoshi Kurosawa, released theatrically for the first time in the US! Both films screen as part of a single program with CHIME playing first. Total running time: 130 min. 

2026 film Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway: The Sorcery of Nymph Circe (キルケーの魔女) in Pittsburgh, from May 14.

The 2026 film Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway: The Sorcery of Nymph Circe (キルケーの魔女) will play in Pittsburgh from May 14.

The year is U.C.0105, twelve years after Char's Rebellion. "MAFTY" has begun resisting the Federation government's tyrannical rule by assassinating its ministers. Its leader is actually Hathaway Noa, the son of Bright Noa, who fought in the One Year War alongside Amuro Ray. Haunted by past trauma, Hathaway is drawn to a mysterious girl named Gigi Andalucia, whose strange powers stir memories within him. While swayed by her cryptic words, he continues preparing for MAFTY's mission — the attack on the Adelaide Conference. Kenneth Sleg of the Earth Federation Forces prepares a defense operation for the Adelaide Conference and a plan to eliminate MAFTY and is approached by Handley Yoxon of the Criminal Police Organization with a secret proposal. As Hathaway and Kenneth pursue their respective goals, Gigi also sets off for Hong Kong to fulfill her own role.

It is the second film in a trilogy and was released in Japan on January 30. It plays locally at the AMC Loews Waterfront through May 20, and tickets are available online.

Carnegie Mellon offering online instructor-guided beginner level Chinese courses for $150 this summer.

Carnegie Mellon University's Department of Languages, Cultures & Applied Linguistics is offering online instructor-guided beginner level Chinese courses for $150 this summer. (It also offers these courses at that price during other terms throughout the year, and in other languages like Arabic, French, and Spanish.)

Beginning Chinese 1 is an introductory Mandarin Chinese course for independent learners. The course aims to help beginners develop competence in speaking, listening, reading, and writing, as well as Chinese culture. Learners start with a unit on pinyin, including how to produce the different Chinese tones in speech and how to represent them in written letters. Each of the following units is centered around an authentic video in Chinese. Students interact with the audio elements of the videos and are encouraged to explore the traditional and/or simplified character representations throughout the course. 

Registration is now open and classes begin May 11.