This weekend, Columbians who visit the CUArts ticket booth in Lerner Hall will have their pick of tickets—reserved exclusively for them—to more than 250 discounted shows, dances, operas, and exhibits.

But with so many options available in person and online, how is a student supposed to know what shows are worth their time? Tastes vary, of course, but three shows students may wish to take their debit cards out for—particularly if they are prone to head-banging or playing the air guitar—are “Rock of Ages,” “Fuerza Bruta: Look Up,” and “Power Balladz.” With their dense scores of rock, alternative, and hip-hop music, these shows are sure to grab students’ interest right from the overture.

Although “Rock of Ages” only came to Broadway in 2009, the music from this dynamic musical was born in the era of shoulder pads: the 1980s. Featuring songs from big time (and big hair) bands like Bon Jovi, Journey, Twisted Sister, and Poison, “Rock of Ages” provides humor and lighthearted entertainment for those who wish they had lived in an era when “Don’t Stop Believin’” was more than just the final song in “The Sopranos.” For any student interested in riding the 1 train to Times Square, this five-time Tony-nominated play provides a degree of wit unparalleled by most of Broadway’s current musicals.

For a more unconventional experience, try seats at “Fuerza Bruta: Look Up,” a gravity-defying show which relies purely on alternative music, dance, acrobatics, and set designs that could pass as art exhibits on their own. This 360 degree-plus experience forces viewers (who stand for the duration of the show) to move around, look in every direction, and even interact with the performers. Although audience members will not necessarily fall in love with the plot of this mysterious contemporary piece—the almost nonexistent plot consists of a man facing various obstacles during a chase—the sensory experience will keep viewers thinking well beyond the end of the performance. It’s “Cirque du Soleil” with a theatrical twist and includes a giant techno dance party for the audience at the end.

If you’re nostalgic for the good ol’ high school days, go buy tickets (or use a special online Columbia promotion and get your tickets for free) for a show that truly provides a soundtrack to the teenage life: “Power Balladz.” Like “Rock of Ages,” this show taps into every viewer’s inner 1980s rock child and provides the audience with a song matching every teenage milestone—from the first kiss, to the first slow dance, to the first time. Even after the show is over, the entertainment continues, as the audience is then invited to participate in an auditorium-wide karaoke-fest.

While these three spectacles provide the perfect amount of entertainment for any overworked Columbian, they also characterize a massive change in the theater industry. Some may feel disillusioned by these unconventional shows, but considering that the jukebox musical is showing a lot of staying power, viewers might as well go with the flow, let their hair down, and enjoy the show.