R.O.C.K. in the N.Y.C.

Northeast Ohio is counting down the months until next March, when the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductions take place in Cleveland every three years. After all, it makes better sense than to stage it in New York all the time, when the hall is standing right there on the Lake Erie shoreline. Duh. But on five giant screens, the museum will air a live simulcast tonight of the 23rd annual ceremonies in New York's Waldorf-Astoria Hotel. This year's class includes Madonna, John Mellencamp, the Dave Clark Five, the Ventures, Little Walter, Kenny Gamble, Leon Huff, and Leonard Cohen. "We're inviting Northeast Ohio to come down for a party," says spokeswoman Margaret Thresher. "It's a great energy, and it reminds us that it all started here with the induction ceremonies." Between speeches and performances, you can stroll past the museum's exhibits, from The Lasting Legacy of the Doors to an expanded collection of Elvis memorabilia to a photo exhibit by Kevin Mazur. "Every year, we have people from around the country and world come in," says Thresher. "If you haven't been here in a while — or even if you have — it's a great party." The inductions start at 8 tonight at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, 1 Key Plaza. Tickets are $5. Call 216-781-7625 or visit www.rockhall.com.
Mon., March 10, 8 p.m., 2008