Dark Star Orchestra Thursday, Dickie Betts Friday, State Theatre, 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church.

The next two nights is as good as it gets for folks who can get up close and personal with the stage at Falls Church’s State Theatre. The Dark Star Orchestra is the foremost cover band for the Grateful Dead and Dickie Betts is the legendary founding member of the Allman Brothers. Dark Star brings such a following that two shows (one last night, the other tonight) are standing room only at the State. That is, all the tables and chairs are removed downstairs to accommodate the crowds on both nights. The only place to sit down is in the balcony. Bob Weir, Grateful Dead co-founder, is quoted saying, “A couple times when I had my back to John Kadlecik (the lead for Dark Star) onstage, I had this weird sense that it was Jerry.” On Friday night, Dickie Betts brings the spirit and amazing talent of his original contribution to southern-style rock and jammin.