Updated: March 11, 2013 5:17PM

HOLIDAY

“Bah, Humbug!”

Piccolo Theatre’s annual holiday Panto presents Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” in a whole new way, with music, jokes and magic, through Dec. 22 at 600 Main St, Evanston (inside the Main Street Metra station). Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Fridays; 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays; and 3 p.m. Sundays. $25; $22 seniors; $15 students; $10 children 9 and younger; $65 family (two adults, two children). Call (847) 424-0089 or visit www.piccolotheatre.com.

“It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play”

Through Dec. 23 at Oil Lamp Theater, 1723 Glenview Road, Glenview. $30. Call (847) 834-0738 or visit www.oillamptheater.org.

“A YuleTube Christmas”

Presented at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 15 at North Suburban Evangelical Free Church, 200 Lake Cook Ave., Deerfield. Free. Call (847) 580-5761.

“The Nutcracker”

Performed by Salt Creek Ballet at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Dec. 15 and 2 p.m. Dec. 16 at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie. $31.50, $39.50. Call (847) 673-6300 or visit www.northshorecenter.org.

“It’s Christmas Charlie Brown! The Musical!”

Performed by the Actors Training Center at 10 a.m. and noon Dec. 15 at the Wilmette Theatre, 1122 Central Ave., Wilmette. $15. Call (847) 251-7424 or visit www.wilmettetheatre.com.

A Fifth House Christmas

Fifth House Ensemble performs at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Unitarian Church of Evanston, 1330 Ridge Ave. The program includes Corelli’s Christmas Concerto in G minor, Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, and Winter from the “Four Seasons” by Antionio Vivaldi, as well as a sing-along of Christmas carols. $20; $10 seniors; $5 children under 12 and students. Call (312) 380-9132.

“Do-It-Yourself Messiah”

The Waukegan Symphony Orchestra and Concert Chorus welcome listeners and singers alike to their annual Joseph A. Favero Memorial Concert, a DIY Messiah and Carol Sing-Along, at 7 p.m. Dec. 15 at First United Methodist Church, 128 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Waukegan. $15; admission free for ages 18 and under. Visit www.waukegansymphony.org.

“Make the Yuletide Gay”

Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus presents its annual holiday production at 8 p.m. Dec. 15 at First Congregational Church of Evanston, 1445 Hinman Ave., Evanston. $15-$35 with discounts for students and seniors. Visit www.cgmc.org.

Holiday Brass & Choral Concert

Presented by the Music of the Baroque Chorus and Brass Ensemble at 3 p.m. Dec. 15-16 at Divine Word Chapel, 2001 Waukegan Road, Techny. $45-$75. Call (312) 551-1414 or visit www.baroque.org.

“Holiday Inspiration”

The All Village Singers perform carols and winter favorites at 2 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Glenview Public Library, 1930 Glenview Road, Glenview. Free. Register online at www.glenviewpl.org/registration.htm.

Bach Magnificat: Christmas in Germany

Presented by the Chicago Chamber Choir at 3 p.m. Dec. 16 at Our Lady of the Brook Parish, 3700 Dundee Road, Northbrook. $18 in advance; $20 at the door; $15 children and students. Visit www.chicagochamberchoir.org.

Holiday Concert 2012

Presented by the Evanston Children’s Choir at 3 p.m. Dec. 16 at Alice Millar Chapel, 1870 Sheridan Road, Evanston. Free-will donations accepted. Call (847) 733-0814 or visit www.evanstonchildrenschoir.org.

Holiday concert

The Glenview Concert Band performs at 3 p.m. Dec. 16 in the auditorium of Glenbrook South High School, 4000 W. Lake, Ave., Glenview. Admission is $5 plus one item of food for the Northfield Township Food Pantry, or $6. Free admission for children. Glenbrook South High School concert band, jazz band, and chorus will join in the presentation of classic holiday tunes. Visit www.glenviewband.org.

Jazzy Holidays: A Cabaret Evening

Vocalist Petra van Nuis and pianist Larry Harris perform at 7 p.m. Dec. 18 at the Glenview Public Library, 1930 Glenview Road, Glenview. Free. Register online at www.glenviewpl.org/registration.htm.

Do-It-Yourself Messiah

With holiday carol sing, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 22 at Glenview Community Church, 1000 Elm St., Glenview. The free event features the Glenview Community Church Chancel Choir, soloists, and the Waukegan Symphony Orchestra. Musical scores will be available. Visit www.gccucc.org or call (847) 724-2210.

Candlelight service of Lessons and Carols

Presented at 4:30 p.m. Dec. 23 at St. Philip the Apostle Church, 1962 Old Willow Road, Northfield. Lectors, choirs and guest instrumentalists directed by Brend Weiland tell nativity story. Admission is free. For information, call (847) 446-8383.

Holiday Music Series

Featuring local amateur talent 5-7 p.m. every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, through Dec. 23, in the Special Events Tent at Orphans of the Storm Animal Shelter, 2200 Riverwoods Road, Riverwoods (Deerfield). Sunday afternoons are scheduled for family sing-alongs with holiday music, cookies and hot chocolate. Call (847) 945-0235 or visit www.orphansofthestorm.org.

Holiday musical program

The Evanston, Glencoe, Highland Park/Deerfield, Northfield and Wilmette Chapters of Lyric Opera of Chicago present soprano Alyson Cambridge, accompanied by Craig Terry, in a recital of arias and songs at noon Dec. 16 at Michigan Shores Club, 911 Michigan Ave., Wilmette. The recital will follow a social hour, silent auction and luncheon. $50 includes valet parking. For reservations, call Bill Smith, (847) 256-1292 (day) or (847) 256-2714 (evening).

Holiday Evening Lamplight Tours

Offered at 7 p.m. Dec. 20 and 27 at the Evanston History Center in the Dawes House, 225 Greenwood St., Evanston. The tour shows how families who lived at the Dawes House celebrated Christmas and decorated their home. Admission $15; $5 for children. Reservations required; e-mail khartzell@evanstonhistorycenter.org or call (847) 475-3410.

Holiday Skating Recital

Featuring skaters from all levels presenting holiday routines, 6-9 p.m. Dec. 21 at the Northbrook Sports Center, 1730 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook. Free. Visit www.nbparks.org.

Holiday Hijinks! Storytime

Presented by Nili Yelin,The Storybook Mom at 6 p.m. Dec. 21 at Madame ZuZu’s Teahouse, 682 Rogers Williams Ave., Highland Park. Free. Visit www.storybookmom.com.

Breakfast with Santa

Held at 11:30 a.m. Dec. 15 at The Cafe at the Glenview Park Golf Club, 800 Shermer Road, Glenview. $14 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Call (847) 657-3200.

Breakfast with Santa

Held 8:30-11 a.m. Dec. 15 at the Winnetka Community House, 620 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka, featuring a breakfast buffet, photos with Santa, and crafts. $20 per person. Registration required; call (847) 446-0537 or visit www.winnetkacommunityhouse.org.

Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus

Held 10-11 a.m. Dec. 15 at The Book Market at Hangar One in The Glen Town Center, 2651 Navy Blvd., Glenview. Free. Call (847) 724-2025.

Open House with Santa

Held 6:30-9 p.m. Dec. 14 at Cuneo Mansion and Gardens, 1350 N. Milwaukee Ave., Vernon Hills. Featuring guided tours of the mansion, a craft station and coloring contest for children, homemade wreath contest, a visit with Santa Claus and his elves in the Great Hall, a raffle and refreshments. $5 per person, free for children under 3; plus admission to holiday light show ($10 per car). Cash only at the door. Visit www.cuneomansion.org.

Winter Wonderland Breakfast With Santa

Held from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Five Seasons Family Sports Club, 1300 Techny Road, Northbrook. $16.95; $9.95 children ages 6-11; 5 and under free. Call (847) 897-5039.

Chicago Botanic Garden

1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-8215. www.chicagobotanic.org. Dec. 15-16, 8:30 a.m.: Breakfast with Santa. $33 adults; $27 children ages 3-12; free for children 2 and under. Dec. 22, 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.: Christmas Brass Concert in the Alsdorf Auditorium. $17 in advance; $20 at the door; free for children 2 and under; standard parking fee of $20 applies.

Winter Wonderland Holiday Light Show

Through Dec. 31 at Cuneo Mansion and Gardens, 1350 N. Milwaukee Ave., Vernon Hills, a drive-through tour of the estate’s 97 acres decorated in brightly lit holiday figures. Hours are 6-10 p.m. Monday-Sunday. Closed Dec. 24-25. Visitors can enhance their experience by tuning into local radio station 107.1 FM for a dual music and visual experience. $5 per car Monday-Thursday; $10 per car Friday-Sunday. Visit www.cuneomansion.org.

“Merry Kwanzaa”

Presented at 3 p.m. Dec. 26 at Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center, 1655 Foster St., Evanston. Admission is free. Call (847) 448-8254.

New Year’s Cosmic Skate

From 8-10 p.m. Dec. 28 at the Northbrook Sports Center, 1730 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, including DJ music, a countdown video screen, food and games. Open to grades 6-8. $10; ice skate rental $3. Visit www.nbparks.org.

STAGE

“Evanston, Which Is Over There: A Tale of Men and Women in the Modern World”

Curious Theatre Branch presents a new play by Beau O’Reilly at 8 p.m. Dec. 14-15 and 3 p.m. Dec. 16 at The Side Project, 1439 W. Jarvis, Chicago. $15 or pay what you can at the door. Visit www.curioustheatrebranch.com.

“The Good Doctor”

Salon performances of the comedy by Neil Simon will be presented at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14-15 and 3:30 p.m. Dec. 16 at Piven Theatre, 927 Noyes St., Evanston. $15. Call (847) 866-8049 or visit www.piventheatre.org.

“The Letters”

The political thriller, set in 1930s Russia, will be presented through March 3 at Writers’ Theatre, 664 Vernon Avenue, Glencoe. Performances Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m.; Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. (with select 2 p.m. matinees); Thursdays and Fridays at 8 p.m.; Saturdays at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.; and Sundays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. $35-$70. Call (847) 242-6000 or visit www.writerstheatre.org.

“Little Women”

Presented through Dec. 30 at Citadel Theatre, 300 S. Waukegan Road, Lake Forest. Performances at 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; 3 p.m. Sundays; Wednesday matinee at 1 p.m. Dec. 19; Saturday matinees at 1 p.m. Dec. 15 and 22. $37.50; $32.50 seniors and students. Call (847) 735-8554 or visit www.citadeltheatre.org.

“My One and Only”

Through Dec. 31 at the Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire, at 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. Wednesdays; 8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays; 4:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturdays; and 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Sundays. $40-$48, with discounts available for students and seniors. Dinner and theatre tickets, $55, are available Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Call (847) 634-0200 or visit www.marriotttheatre.com.

“The Odd Couple”

Northlight Theatre presents the Neil Simon comedy at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13; 8 p.m. Dec. 14-15; and 2:30 p.m. Dec. 16 at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie. $25-$72; $15 students. Call (847) 673-6300 or visit www.northlight.org.

“Oliver!”

Presented by Light Opera Works with a full 26-piece orchestra, Dec. 22-31 at Cahn Auditorium, 600 Emerson St., Evanston. Performances at 8 p.m. Dec. 22, 28, 29 and 31 and 2 p.m. Dec. 23, 26, 27, 29 and 30. $32-$92; $34-$94 New Year’s Eve; ages 21 and younger half-price for Family Matinees on Dec. 26, 27 and 29 (meet the cast after the show). Call (847) 920-5360 or visit www.lightoperaworks.com.

“Welcome Home, Jenny Sutter”

Presented by Next Theatre Company through Dec. 23 at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes St., Evanston. Curtain at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays; 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturdays; and 2 p.m. Sundays. $30-$40; half-price for young adults (age 25 or younger). Call (847) 475-1875 or visit www.nexttheatre.org.

CLASSICAL

Ars Viva Symphony Orchestra

Performing at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie. Tickets: $36-$75, with discounts for seniors and youth. Call (847) 673-6300 or visit www.arsviva.org. Jan. 13, 3 p.m.: Works by Vaughan Williams, Mahler and Beethoven.

Baroque Band

The period instrument orchestra performs at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 18 at the Music Institute of Chicago, 1490 Chicago Ave., Evanston. The program features recorder soloist Piers Adams in works by Vivaldi, Albinoni and Telemann. $35; $30 seniors; $15 students. Visit www.baroqueband.org.

Highland Park Strings

Presenting “Two Shades of Gray,” with soloists Erika Gray, violin, and Johannes Gray, cello, at 3 p.m. Dec. 16 at Elm Place School, 2031 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. Program includes works by Handel, Mozart and Tchaikovsky. Admission is free. Visit www.hpstrings.org.

Lake Shore Symphony Orchestra

Performs Brahms’ Second Symphony and other works, 3:30 p.m. Jan. 27 at Northside College Preparatory High School, 5501 N. Kedzie Ave., Chicago. $20; $15 seniors and students. Call (312) 409-5670 or visit www.lsso.org.

Midwest Young Artists Center

878 Lyster Road, Highwood. (847) 926-9898. www.mya.org. Dec. 22, 7 p.m.: MYA faculty member and cellist Amanda Dennis plays selections from Bach, Beethoven and Brahms. $5 donation suggested.

Music of the Baroque

“Mozart Celebration,” with Jane Glover, conductor, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 27 at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie. $27-$75. Call (312) 551-1414 or visit www.baroque.org.

Music Institute of Chicago

Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Ave., Evanston. (847) 905-1500. www.musicinst.org. Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m.: New Horizons Band plays works by Reinhold Gliere and Julie Giroux-West, and holiday favorites. Free; reception follows performance. Dec. 16, 3 p.m.: Chicago Chorale performs works by Brahms, Vaughan Williams, Paul Carey, and Jean Belmont. $15; $10 seniors; $7 students.

The Newberry Consort

Presenting “My Heart’s in the Highlands: Songs & Poems of Robbie Burns,” 3 p.m. Jan. 27 at Northwestern University’s Lutkin Hall, 700 University Place, Evanston. $32 in advance; $35 at the door. Visit www.newberryconsort.org or call (773) 669-7335.

Northbrook Public Library

1201 Cedar Lane. www.northbrook.info. (847) 272-6224. Dec. 16, 2 p.m.: pianists Susan Merdinger and Steven Greene and violinist David Yonan play works by Rachmaninoff and Mozart.

Pick-Staiger Concert Hall

At Northwestern University, 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. Information: (847) 491-5441; tickets: (847) 467-4000. www.pickstaiger.org. Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m.: Keyboard Conversations, “Claude Debussy: Clair de lune, Fireworks and Beyond,” presented by pianist Jeffrey Siegel. $22; $16 students.

Pilgrim Chamber Players

Performing with guest soloist Michele Areyzaga, soprano, at 3 p.m. Jan. 27 at the Highland Park Community House, 1991 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. $20; $15 seniors; $8 students. Call (847) 433-0972 or visit www.pilgrimplayers.org.

Winter Chamber Music Festival

Presented from Jan. 11-31 at Northwestern University’s Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. All concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. Call (847) 467-4000 or visit www.pickstaiger.org. Jan. 11: Bienen School faculty and guests perform works by Ravel, Brahms and Mendelssohn. $22; $10 students. Jan. 13: Bienen School faculty and guests perform works by Ravel, Blanc and Dvorak. $22; $10 students. Jan. 18: The chamber orchestra A Far Cry performs works by Golijov, Arvo Part, Biber and Walton. $24; $10 students. Jan. 20: The Calder Quartet performs works by Andrew Norman, Ravel and Bartok. $22; $10 students. Jan. 25: The Escher String Quartet performs works by Prokofiev, Shostakovich and Beethoven. $22; $10 students. Jan. 27: Bienen School faculty and guests perform works by Saint-Saens, Prokofiev and Schumann. $20; $10 students. Jan. 31: Violinist Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg and the New Century Chamber Orchestra perform works by Mendelssohn, William Bolcom, Villa-Lobos and Strauss. $30; $10 students.

POP/FOLK/JAZZ

Bertucci’s Italian Steakhouse

246 Green Bay Road, Highwood. (847) 432-6663. Music at 8:30 p.m. unless noted otherwise. Dec. 14, 8 p.m.: Mike “Satch” Graziano performs easy listening music in the bar. Dec. 15, 8 p.m.: Lane LaPage performs easy listening music in the bar. Dec. 22, 8 p.m.: Sheri Star performs easy listening music in the bar. Dec. 31, 10 p.m.: The Basement Band. Dinner reservations required.

The Celtic Knot Public House

626 Church St., Evanston. (847) 864-1679. www.celticknotpub.com. No cover unless noted otherwise. Dec. 13, 8 p.m.: Traditional Irish music with Annie Andrews, Donald Terao and John Williams. Dec. 16 and 30, 5-8 p.m.: Eric Lugosch. Dec. 22, 9:30 p.m.: Whiskey Tango Foxtrot. Dec. 31, 9:30 p.m. GPS.

Cubby Bear North

21661 N. Milwaukee Ave., Lincolnshire. (847) 541-4700. www.cubbynorth.com. Music at 10 p.m. unless noted otherwise. Dec. 14: Gina Glocksen Band, $5. Dec. 15: ARRA, $7. Dec. 21: Darmata, $5. Dec. 22: Samadhi Vibe, $5. Dec. 28: Stache, $5. Dec. 29: Rod Tuffcurls & the Bench Press, $6. Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve with Lucky Boys Confusion. Ages 21-plus. $25 general admission; $60 VIP package.

Glenview Public Library

1930 Glenview Road. (847) 729-7500. www.glenviewpl.org. Jan. 6, 2 p.m.: “The Life & Songs of Woody Guthrie,” presented by Mark Dvorak and Lynn E. Malnekoff.

Globe Cafe

1710 Orrington Ave., Evanston. www.hotelorrington.com. Dec. 19, 5:30-8 p.m.: Laura Joy, Heather Styka & Emily White: Ladies Night at Bill’s Blues Revisited. Dec. 26: Jon Spiegel’s Tremolux and Friends: A Boxing Day Event, 5:30-7:30 p.m.; singer/songwriter and guitarist Larry Mesirow, 7:30-8:30 p.m.

Lake County Folk Club

Events are held at 7 p.m. Sundays at In-Laws Restaurant, 720 Milwaukee Ave., Gurnee. Concert admission is $12; $10 for Lake County Folk Club members and seniors; $5 for teens. No admission charge for Open Stage and Song Circle. Visit www.thelakecountyfolkclub.org. Dec. 16: Concert Stage features Small Potatoes, the Chicago-based folk duo of Jacquie Manning and Rich Prezioso. Jerry Thiel opens. Dec. 23: Song Circle.

The Laughing Chameleon

Located in The Glen Town Center, 1830 Tower Drive, Glenview. (888) 685-2844. www.thelaughingchameleon.com. Dec. 19, 8 p.m.; Dec . 20-22, 8 p.m. and 10:15 p.m.: All American Dueling Pianos. $10 online, $12 at the box office.

Mayne Stage

1328 W. Morse Ave. in Rogers Park, Chicago. (773) 381-4554. www.maynestage.com. Dec. 14, 8 p.m.: Ensemble dal Niente presents Hard Music Hard Liquor. $20; $25 reserved. Dec. 19, 8 p.m.: Chris Greene Quartet with Marquis Hill Blacktet (jazz). Dec. 20, 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.: Dragapella group The Kinsey Sicks presents its holiday show, “Oy Vey in a Manger.” $25; $35 reserved. Dec. 21, 8 p.m.: The Siegel-Schwall Band Holiday Concert. $20 in advance; $25 day of; $30 reserved. Dec. 31, 10:30 p.m.: New Year’s Eve with JC Brooks and The Uptown Sound. $65 reserved VIP seating includes champagne toast at midnight, party favors and signed poster; $45 general admission. Feb. 9, 9 p.m.: Angel D’Cuba CD release party for “Heritage.” $12 in advance; $17 day of; $22 reserved. Feb. 23, 8 p.m.: Thiefs (jazz). $15 in advance; $20 day of; $25 reserved.

North Shore Center for the Performing Arts

9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie. (847) 673-6300. www.northshorecenter.org. Jan. 3, 7:30 p.m.: Elvis Tribute Artist Spectacular. $20.50, $37, $51.

S.P.A.C.E.

1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston. www.evanstonspace.com. (847) 492-8860. Shows at 8 p.m., unless noted otherwise. Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m.: Mindy Smith (country/alternative). $18/$22. Dec. 14: Paul Cebar Tomorrow Sound and Sam Llanas, formerly of The BoDeans (R&B, rock). $12/$15. Dec. 15: Mud Morganfield (blues). $12/$15. Dec. 16, 7 p.m.: The Klezmatics (klezmer). $18-$36. Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m.: Raul Malo (country/salsa). $22-$42. Dec. 21: Delbert McClinton (blues/rock). $40-$85. Dec. 22: Deep Blue Organ Trio (jazz). $12/$15. Dec. 29: Ezra Furman & His Band (pop). $12/$15. Dec. 31, 6 p.m.: The Flat Five (pop/rock). $15-$35. Dec. 31, 10 p.m.: Alejandro Escovedo & the Sensitive Boys with Nicholas Tremulis (roots/rock). $65-$95. Jan. 1, 7 p.m.: “The Songs of Hank Williams,” featuring Nick Tremulis, Ingrid Graudins, Don Stiernburg, John Rice,TC Furlong, Stuart Rosenberg and others (country). $18/$22. Jan. 4: Susan Werner (folk). $20-$40. Jan. 5: Otis Clay CD release show (soul). $15-$35. Jan. 6, 7 p.m.: Nellie McKay (pop/jazz). $15-$35. Jan. 11: Chris Smither, $22/$25. Jan. 12, 7 p.m.: Megon McDonough & Friends performing the music of Dan Fogelberg. $15/$20. Jan. 12, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.: Seth Glier in the Studios at SPACE, $10/$15. Jan. 13, 7 p.m.: Words & Music,” hosted by Ingrid Graudins. $12/$15. Jan. 16, 7:30 p.m.: Teitur (folk). $15/$18. Jan. 17, 7:30 p.m.: Kelly Joe Phelps (blues). $15/$18. Jan. 18: Booker T Jones (blues/rock). $28-$68. Jan. 19: Eddy The Chief Clearwater (blues). $15/$18. Jan. 20, 3 p.m.: “Songs of a Catholic Childhood,” a show from Jamie O’Reilly and Michael Smith. $18/$20. Jan. 20, 7 p.m.: Aoife O’Donovan and Gabe Kahane, backed by Casey Foubert. $12/$15. Jan. 25: Kelly Hogan (country). $14/$16. Jan. 26, 7 p.m.: The Jill & Julia Show. $18-$38.. Jan. 27, 7 p.m.: Sixpence None The Richer (pop/rock). $22/$25. Jan. 29, 7:30 p.m.: Albert Lee (country/rock). $17/$20. Jan. 30, 7:30 p.m.: An Acoustic Evening with Lucinda Williams, featuring Doug Pettibone (country/blues). $35-$85. Feb. 1: Shawn Colvin with Meg Hutchinson (folk). $38-$78. Feb. 2: Shawn Colvin with Matt the Electrician (folk). $38-$78. Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m.: Chicago Farmer CD release show with Miles Nielsen & the Rusted Hearts (folk). $10/$12. Feb. 7, 7:30 p.m.: Tift Merritt (folk). $22/$25. Feb. 8, 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.: Judy Collins (folk). $40-$85. Feb. 10, 7 p.m.: Buckwheat Zydeco, $28/$30. Feb. 13, 7:30 p.m.: Joe Robinson (jazz/blues). $10/$12. Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m.: The Del Moroccos (rockabilly/R&B). $12/$15. Feb. 15, 7 p.m.: James Lee Stanely in The Studios at SPACE (folk). $20. Feb. 16: Andy McKee, $22-$42. Feb. 17, 7:30 p.m.: An Acoustic Evening with Martin Sexton, $32-$68. Feb. 21, 7:30 p.m.: New Orleans Suspects (rock/funk/blues). $18/$20. Feb. 22, 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.: Suzanne Vega (folk). $28-$60. Feb. 24, 7 p.m.: Red Baraat (funk). $15/$18.

Stained Glass Coffeehouse

Featuring live music at the Congregational Church of Deerfield, 225 Wilmot Road. Performances begin at 7 p.m. $15 donation; proceeds benefit local and international charities. Visit www.stainedglasscoffeehouse.com. Dec. 15: Joe Jencks & Friends (Edie Carey and Heather Styka).

Viper Alley

275 Parkway Drive, Lincolnshire. www.viper-alley.com. (866) 463-3401. Shows are for ages 18-plus, unless noted otherwise. Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m.: Jazz guitarist and songwriter John Pizzarelli. $20-$40. Dec. 31, 9 p.m.: New Year’s Eve with The Prince Experience plus A Thousand Julys. $25-$85. All tickets include a champagne toast at midnight and party favors. Age 21 and over event. Jan. 9, 9 p.m: The Wailers, $25-$35. Jan. 17, 9 p.m.: LA Guns, $15-$25. Feb. 8, 8:30 p.m.: Marshall Tucker Band, $27-$70. Feb. 16, 6:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m.: Chicago natives Ann Hampton Callaway and Liz Callaway present “Sibling Revelry,” a cabaret act that includes show tunes, jazz and pop. $20-$50.

ART GALLERIES

Anne Loucks Gallery

309 Park Ave., Glencoe. (847) 835-8500. www.loucksgallery.com. Through Jan. 31: New paintings by Stephen Pentak and Leslie Wu.

The Art Center Highland Park

1957 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. (847) 432-1888. www.theartcenterhp.org. Through Dec. 30: “The Anastylosis Project,” large-scale, intricately detailed drawings of 12th century buildings by Mary Griep, and “Sacred Spaces,” a juried exhibition of work in all media that depicts places with sacred significance.

Deer Path Art League & Gallery

Located in the Gorton Community Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest. (847) 234-3743. www.deerpathartleague.org. Through Jan. 4: “Art is ... for Gifting.”

Glenview Public Library

1930 Glenview Road. (847) 729-7500. www.glenviewpl.org. Through Jan. 6: “Living to Create, Creating to Live: Multiple Artists from Arts of Life.”

Jack Kraig Photography Studio & Gallery

1532 Crain St., Evanston. (773) 281-2424. www.jackkraig.com/gallery. Dec. 15 and 16, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.: Holiday Open House, featuring photographs and paintings by six local artists.

North Shore Art League

Hosting its sixth annual “inchworks” fine arts show through Jan. 15 at the Winnetka Community House, 620 Lincoln Avenue, Winnetka. The show features images no larger than 144 square inches. Call (847) 446-2870 or visit www.northshoreartleague.org.

Perspective Group and Photography Gallery

1310-1/2B Chicago Ave., Evanston. www.perspectivegallery.org. (224) 200-1155. Through Dec. 30: Suzanne Metzel exhibits photographs from her recent series, “Rhythmic Bodies,” and Jeffrie Chirchirillo features photographs from his “Powwow of the New Moon” series. Artists’ talk at 7 p.m. Dec. 13.

Zia Gallery

548 Chestnut St., Winnetka. (847) 446-3970. Through Jan. 12: Works by paper-making sculptor and book artist Melissa Jay Craig and painter Jonathan Ricci.

AUDITIONS & OPPORTUNITIES

Music Institute of Chicago

Seeking submissions for its Generation Next Young Composer’s Competition, open to ages 10-18. Prizes range from $75 to $350. In addition, winners will hear their works performed live at Nichols Concert Hall and become eligible for scholarships to participate in the Music Institute’s Composer’s Lab. Deadline for submissions is Dec. 15. Call Sue Polutnik, (847) 905-1500, ext. 122.

Children’s theatre auditions

Auditions for the Disney’s “The Little Mermaid Jr.” will be held 4-6 p.m. Jan. 9-10 at the Northbrook Theatre, 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook. Auditions are open to youth in grades 6-10 and include acting, dancing and singing tryouts. Rehearsals begin Jan. 13, and performances are on weekends in March. For information, visit www.nbparks.org or call (847) 291-2367.

Call for artists

Amdur Productions, an art festival production company, has issued its annual call for artists. Artists can apply online at www.amdurproductions.com. All applications must be received by midnight Jan. 11; late applications will be accepted through Jan. 18 for an additional processing fee. Festivals include: Barrington Art Festival, May 25-26; Promenade of Art Arlington Heights, June 8-9; The Art Center’s Festival of Fine Craft, Highland Park, June 22-23; Chicago Botanic Garden Art Festival, Glencoe, July 5-7; Buffalo Grove Invitational Art Festival, July 13-14; North Shore Festival of Art, Skokie, July 27-28; Glencoe Festival of Art, Aug. 3-4; Art at the Glen Town Center, Glenview, Aug. 10-11; Lincolnshire Art Festival, Aug. 17-18; Port Clinton Art Festival, Highland Park, Aug. 24-25; Downtown Downers Grove Art Festival, Sept. 7-8; Highwood Last Call Starving Artist Art Fair, Sept. 21-22; The Inside Show, Highland Park, Nov. 22-24.

Northbrook Community Choir

Begins rehearsals from 7:30-9 p.m. Jan. 14 at the Northbrook Park District Leisure Center, 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook. Teens and adults in all voice parts are welcome to join, with no audition required. Singers do not have to be residents of Northbrook, but registration is required through the park district. Visit www.nbparks.org or call (847) 291-2367.

Canzonetta Youth Orchestra

Seeking musicians to audition for the 2012-13 music season. Directed by Hilel Kagan, Canzonetta is a chamber orchestra that offers specialized instruction for children interested in developing their orchestral skills. Training Orchestra, for 7- to 10-year-olds with beginning orchestral experience, meets from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Saturdays. The Intermediate Orchestra, for 10- to 13-year-olds with more advanced training, meets from 3-4:30 p.m. Sundays. The Senior Orchestra, for high school students who are advanced musicians, meets from 1-3 p.m. Sundays. All three orchestras rehearse at the Wilmette Recreation Center, 3000 Glenview Road. There will be at least four concerts throughout the year. To make an audition appointment, call Helia Schramm, (847) 328-0570.

BOOKS & POETRY

The Book Stall at Chestnut Court

811 Elm St., Winnetka. (847) 446-8880. www.thebookstall.com. Dec. 14, 7 p.m.: Lincoln Schatz talks about his new book, The Network: Portrait Conversations. Dec. 15, 11 a.m.: Richard Cahan and Michael Williams present their new book, Vivian Maier: Out of the Shadows. Dec. 15, 2 p.m.: Dan Weinbach signs Trees 4 Seasons — A Visual Guide.

Glencoe Public Library

320 Park Ave., Glencoe. (847) 835-5058. www.glencoepubliclibrary.org. Jan. 9, 1 p.m.: Discussion of The Year We Left Home by Jean Thompson. Jan. 9, 7 p.m.: Discussion of The Buddha in the Attic by Julie Otsuka.

Highland Park Poetry

Dec. 14, 8 p.m.: Holiday gathering and poetry open mic at The Art Center Highland Park, 1957 Sheridan Road. Poets may bring up to six poems to share. Visit www.highlandparkpoetry.org.

Northbrook Public Library

1201 Cedar Lane. www.northbrook.info. (847) 272-6224. Dec. 13, 7 p.m.: Northbrook resident Dennis Byrne discusses and signs his recently published novel, Madness: The War of 1812.

CHILD’S PLAY

The Actors Gymnasium

Offering winter camp sessions Dec. 26-28 and Jan. 2-4 at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes St., Evanston, for young performers interested in circus arts, drama and movement. Fee is $170 per session. Call (847) 328-2795 or visit www.actorsgymnasium.com.

“Cinderella”

Through Dec. 31 at Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. Performances at 10 a.m. Tuesday-Saturday, with certain performances at 12:30 p.m. $15. Visit www.marriotttheatre.com or call (847) 634-0200.

“Legally Blonde”

Northbrook Theatre Children’s Company presents the musical comedy at 12:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. Dec. 15 and 16 at the Northbrook Theatre, 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook. Visit www.northbrooktheatre.org or call (847) 291-2367.

Wilmette Theatre

1122 Central Ave., Wilmette. (847) 251-7424. www.wilmettetheatre.com. Kids Concert Series; tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door. Jan. 19, 10 a.m.: Human-Tim + Robot-Tim. Feb. 16, 10 a.m.: Little Miss Ann. March 23, 10 a.m.: Super Stolie.

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

Highland Park Poetry

Offering poetry writing workshops at 7 p.m. Jan. 8, 15, 22 and 29 in a downtown Highland Park location convenient to Metra and parking. Cost is $75. To register, visit www.highlandparkpoetry.org.

Musical Theater Winter Workshop

Light Opera Works presents Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast,” open to ages 8-13, Jan. 2-6 at 516 4th Ave., Wilmette. No experience or audition required, and everyone gets a part. $350. Register at www.LightOperaWorks.com/workshop-winter.html or by calling (847) 920-5360.

Northbrook Public Library

1201 Cedar Lane. www.northbrook.info. (847) 272-6224. Dec. 15, 2 p.m.: Mystery author Kathleen Anne Fleming presents a writing workshop with the topic “Short Stories.”

COMEDY

Double-Shot Showcase

Stand-up comedy show, 8 p.m. Thursdays at J.J. Java, 911 Foster St., Evanston. $5 suggested donation. Call (773) 991-7379.

Gorilla Tango’s Skokie Theatre

7924 Lincoln Ave. Skokie. www.gorillatango.com. (773) 598-4549. Through Dec. 29, 9 p.m. Saturdays, except show starts at 11 p.m. Dec. 15: “Holy Bouncing Boobies! A Batman Burlesque.” 18 and over. $20. Dec. 15, 9 p.m.: “The Meshuganas,” a stand-up comedy revue featuring Hollie and Steve Himmelman. $20.

The Laughing Chameleon

Located in The Glen Town Center, 1830 Tower Drive, Glenview. (888) 685-2844. www.thelaughingchameleon.com. Dec. 13-15: Dobie “Mr. Lucky” Maxwell’s “Whirlwind of Words.” Shows at 8 p.m. Thursday and Saturday; 9 p.m. Friday. $23-$25. Dec. 26-31: New Year’s Eve Extravaganza Week, featuring Sonya White and Friends. $25; New Year’s Eve, $50 for 7:30 p.m. show, $75 for 10:15 p.m. show (includes appetizers, champagne toast and post-show DJ music/dancing).

Wilmette Theatre

1122 Central Ave., Wilmette. (847) 251-7424. www.wilmettetheatre.com. Dec. 15, 9 p.m.: “Happy Karaoke Fun Time,” a musically improvised comedy show. $15.

DANCE

Fisher Dance Center

807 Ridge Road, Wilmette. (847) 920-9121. www.fisherdancecenter.com. 25th Anniversary Legendary Workshop Series — Includes short, compact day programs for the junior level (8-11 years of age) and senior level (12-18 years of age). Fee is $25 per workshop. Jan. 13: Jazz dance with Joel Hall. Feb. 3: Italian-style contemporary dance with Federica Ciavadini. March 10: Hip-hop and break dancing with Jarret Brown.

Glenview Square Dance Club

Dancings the first and third Fridays of each month, September to May, at the Glen Grove School, 3900 Glenview Road, Glenview. Round dancing, cued by Howard and Anna Hoffman, starts at 7:30 p.m. Square dancing, at the Plus level, starts at 8 p.m. Call (847) 945-0370 or visit www.glenviewsquares.com.

Shoreline Dance Club

Playing recorded music for easy ballroom dancing at the Gorton Community Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest. Lessons are given by professional instructors Bob and Penny Urbon at 7:30 p.m., followed by an evening of social dancing. Adults of all ages and dancing abilities welcome. Attire is dressy/casual. Admission per couple is $25. Call (847) 816-7602 or visit www.ballroomchicago.com/shoreline.htm. Jan. 19: 4-count hustle. Feb. 16: Waltz. March 16: Cha-cha. April 20: Fox trot. May 18: Rumba.

FAIRS & FESTIVALS

Winter Arts & Crafts Expo

Held through Dec. 19 at the Evanston Art Center, 2603 Sheridan Road, Evanston. Expo hours 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon-4 p.m. Sundays. Men’s Shopping Day, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 15. EAC Student Expo, Dec. 1-19. Visit www.evanstonartcenter.org.

Winter Carnival

Hosted by the Northbrook Park District 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Jan. 12 at Meadowhill Park, 1479 Maple Ave., Northbrook. The free event includes horse-drawn carriage rides, ice sculpture demonstrations, ice skating, sled dog demonstrations, games, a snowshoe obstacle course, sled-decorating contest, DJ music, bonfire and refreshments. Visit www.nbparks.org or call (847) 291-2995.

FILM

Evanston Public Library

1703 Orrington Ave. (847) 448-8600. www.epl.org. Dec. 17, 7 p.m.: International Film Festival features “Foreign Letters.” Jan. 4, 6 p.m.: “Moonrise Kingdom,” rated PG-13.

Glencoe Public Library

320 Park Ave., Glencoe. (847) 835-5058. www.glencoepubliclibrary.org. Dec. 17, 1 and 7 p.m.: “Mulberry Child” will be screened at at the Woman’s Library Club, 325 Tudor Court. The subject of the film, Jian Ping, will introduce the 7 p.m. showing and answer questions afterward.

Glenview Public Library

1930 Glenview Road. (847) 729-7500. www.glenviewpl.org. Dec. 21, 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.: “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel,” rated PG-13.

Highland Park Public Library

494 Laurel Ave. (847) 432-1573. www.hplibrary.org. Dec. 19, 10:30 a.m.: “Refuge: Stories of the Selfhelp Home.” Director Ethan Bensinger screens his documentary film about the last generation of Holocaust survivors in Chicago.

Northbrook Park District Leisure Center

3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook. (847) 291-2980. www.nbparks.org. Dec. 20, 1 p.m.: Screening and discussion of “The Third Man.” $15.

Northbrook Public Library

1201 Cedar Lane. www.northbrook.info. (847) 272-6224. All films shown at 1 and 7:30 p.m. unless noted otherwise. Fred Astaire film series — Dec. 19: “The Gay Divorcee” (1934). Dec. 26: “Royal Wedding” (1951).

Vernon Area Public Library

300 Olde Half Day Road, Lincolnshire. (847) 634-3650. www.vapld.info. Dec. 15, 2 p.m.: “The Bourne Legacy,” rated PG-13. Dec. 28, 2 p.m.: “The Last of the Mohicans,” rated R.

ET CETERA

Short Story Theatre

Hosting an evening of storytelling at 7 p.m. Dec. 18 at The Laughing Chameleon, 1830 Tower Drive, Glenview. Four storytellers, including Highland Park residents Susan Block and Rick Leslie, Mary Lou Gilliam of Deerfield, and Donna Lubow of Riverwoods, will tell true stories. $10. For reservations, call (847) 834-0291 or visit www.laughingchameleon.com. For information and submission guidelines, visit www.shortstorytheatre.com.

S.P.A.C.E.

1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston. www.evanstonspace.com. (847) 492-8860. Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m.: “Dr. Strangelove,” a staged reading featuring Tim Kazurinsky, Randy Craig, Gary Houston and Warren Leming. $15/$18.

MUSEUMS

Evanston History Center

Charles Gates Dawes House, 225 Greenwood St., Evanston. (847) 475-3410. www.evanstonhistorycenter.org. Hours are 1-4 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. Admission (includes optional house tour): $10; free for members. Through Jan. 28: “Bedrooms, Bathrooms and Boudoirs,” a look at the evolution of the home’s most personal of spaces and customs from the mid-19th century to the mid-20th century.

Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center

9603 Woods Drive, Skokie. (847) 967-4889. www.ilholocaustmuseum.org. Admission: $12; $8 for students and senior citizens; $6 for children ages 5-11. Special exhibitions are free with museum admission. Through Jan. 6: “Spies, Traitors and Saboteurs: Fear and Freedom in America,” a creation of the International Spy Museum. The exhibit explores how the United States should balance civil liberties and individual rights during times of conflict, crisis and fear. Jan. 17, 6:30 p.m.: Screening of a new documentary, “Skokie: Invaded, But Not Conquered.” The film examines the personalities and issues connected to the attempted neo-Nazi March in Skokie in the late 1970s. Aaron Freeman hosts the program, to be broadcast on WTTW/Channel 11. Free with museum admission. Reservations required. Jan. 27, 1:30-3 p.m.: Remembrance and Beyond: In Recognition of the International Day of Holocaust Remembrance. Free with museum admission. Reservations required.

Mitchell Museum of the American Indian

3001 Central St., Evanston. (847) 475-1030. www.mitchellmuseum.org. Admission is $5; $3 for senior citizens, students and children. Free admission for Mitchell Museum members and tribal members; and on the first Friday of every month. Admission includes all exhibits and events, unless stated otherwise. Dec. 15-Sept. 8: “New Treasures of Our Collection,” an exhibit of 45 recent acquisitions. Exhibit developer Saul Sopoci Drake will lead a tour of the new exhibit at 2 p.m. Dec. 15. Through Jan. 6: “Changing Views of American Indian Fine Art.” Through Aug. 25: “The War of 1812: Fighting for Their Homeland.” Through maps, timelines, document reproductions, and graphics, the exhibit will provide an overview of the causes and significant events of the War of 1812, including Chicago’s Battle of Fort Dearborn.

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