August 27 marks the date for the 16th annual Symphony at Salk — A Concert Under the Stars featuring Tony Award-winning Idina Menzel, who will perform with the San Diego Symphony under the direction of returning guest conductor Thomas Wilkins. Arguably the biggest Broadway star of the modern era, Menzel has played lead roles in the original casts of Rent and Wicked, and has a recurring role on the Golden Globe-winning series Glee. Tickets are $250 and include a Champagne reception, concert seating, and a gourmet dinner by Jeffery Strauss. Proceeds will benefit Salk’s scientific research and education programs. (858/453-4100, ext. 1491, www.salk.edu)     MIA STEFANKO