Updated: April 29, 2013 4:14PM

HOLIDAY

“Madeline’s Christmas”

At 4 p.m. Dec. 1-2 at Gorilla Tango’s Skokie Theatre, 7924 Lincoln Ave. Skokie. $12. Visit www.gorillatango.com or call (773) 598-4549.

Handel’s “Messiah”

Performed by the Apollo Chorus of Chicago at 7 p.m. Dec. 8 at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie. $45, $55. Call (847) 673-6300 or visit www.northshorecenter.org.

“A Christmas Carol”

Chicago actor and musician Frank Babbitt presents the holiday classic as a solo performance with musical underscore at 3 p.m. Dec. 9 at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 205 N. Prospect Ave., Park Ridge. Free-will donations and canned goods will be accepted to help support the Maine Township Food Pantry. Visit www.stlukespr.org or call (847) 825-6659.

“A Christmas Carol”

Storyteller Greg Weiss performs a one-man reading of Charles Dickens’ classic at 2:30 p.m. Dec. 2 at the Celtic Knot Public House, 626 Church St., Evanston. During intermission, audience members will enjoy Moira’s Afternoon Tea. $20, with proceeds donated to Connections for the Homeless. Reservations required. Visit www.celticknotpub.com.

“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.

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker

3 p.m. Dec. 2 at Akoo Theatre at Rosemont, 5400 N. River Road, Rosemont. $37.95-$100. Tickets available at www.ticketmaster.com or (800) 745-3000.

“The Nutcracker on Ice”

Performances at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7; 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8; and 2:30 p.m. Dec. 9 at the Robert Crown Community Center and Ice Complex, 1701 Main St., Evanston. $9 general admission; $10 reserved seating. Call (847) 448-8258.

“The Nutcracker SWEET”

Music Institute of Chicago’s family open house, 9 a.m. Dec. 8 at Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Ave., Evanston. At 10 a.m., a performance of “The Nutcracker SWEET” showcases the classical (Tchaikovsky) and jazz (Duke Ellington/Billy Strayhorn) versions of the holiday favorite. $10 per family (up to six family members). Call (847) 905-1500, ext. 108, or visit www.musicinst.org.

“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.

Niles Public Library

6960 Oakton St., Niles. (847) 663-6405. www.nileslibrary.org. Dec. 2, 1:30 p.m.: “Fireside Stories,” for children ages 2-6 with grownup. Dec. 2, 2-4:30 p.m.: Holiday Open House, featuring holiday music by The Legacy Girls trio. Dec. 8, 2:30 p.m.: Teen Gingerbread House Workshop. Dec. 9, 2 p.m.: Holiday Storytelling with Chris Fascione, for ages 5 and up. Pick up tickets 30 minutes before the program in the Youth Services department. Dec. 11, 10:30 a.m.: Senior Coffee Hour features a holiday concert, “The Merriest Songs of Christmas, Hanukkah and Broadway,” by vocalist Robbie Malkowski and jazz pianist Dave Turner.

Hanukkah Tales for Tots

Presented at 11 a.m. Dec. 5 at the Mayer Kaplan JCC Children’s Center, 5050 Church St., Skokie. Visit www.gojcc.org/earlychildhood.

Breakfast with Santa

Held 9-11:30 a.m. Dec. 8 at Resurrection College Prep High School, 7500 W. Talcott Ave., Chicago. The event includes breakfast, face painting, a theater production by Resurrection drama students and Christmas arts and crafts. $8 per child; $6 per adult. Reservations strongly encouraged. Visit www.reshs.org or call (773) 775-6616, ext. 127.

Santa’s Breakfast

Dec. 8, 9-11 a.m., at Maggiano’s Old Orchard, 4999 Old Orchard Center, Skokie. Featuring a visit from Santa, music by the Niles North High School Choir, face painting, and breakfast buffet. $14.95 per person inclusive. For reservations, call (847) 933-9572.

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular

Starring The Rockettes, Dec. 14-30 at the Akoo Theatre at Rosemont, 5400 N. River Road, Rosemont. $47.70-$102.55. Tickets available at www.ticketmaster.com or (800) 745-3000. For information about the theater, visit www.rosemonttheatre.com.

Holiday House Tour

The Norwood Park Historical Society’s 29th annual tour will showcase five local homes decorated for the holidays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 1, starting at the Norwood Park Senior Center, 5801 N. Natoma Ave., where the map is distributed and a slide show features local architecture and history. Tickets are $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Free shuttle bus available. Visit www.norwoodparkhistoricalsociety.org or call (773) 631-4633.

“Tis The Season”

The Lakeside Singers perform songs of the season in classical and pop styles, along with an audience sing-along, 8 p.m. Nov. 30 at Music Institute of Chicago’s Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Ave., Evanston. $30; $20 seniors and students; $10 children under 12. Call (847) 382-5085 or visit www.lakesidesingers.com.

Mannheim Steamroller: Christmas

7:30 p.m. Dec. 1 at Akoo Theatre at Rosemont, 5400 N. River Road, Rosemont. $40-$92.30. Tickets available at www.ticketmaster.com or (800) 745-3000.

“Navidad en México”

Chicago a cappella performs Mexican Christmas music, including Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces and traditional Christmas songs, at 8 p.m. Dec. 1 at Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Ave., Evanston. $28-$35; $22 seniors; $12 students; additional $2 each for tickets purchased at the door. Call (773) 281-7820 or visit www.chicagoacappella.org.

Bittersweet Christmas Band

Performing at 8 p.m. Dec. 8 at the Ethical Humanist Society Coffeehouse, 7574 N. Lincoln, Skokie. $8 includes beverages and pastries. Call (847) 677-3334 or visit www.ethicalhuman.org/coffeehouse.

“The Lost Christmas Eve”

Performed by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Dec. 8 at Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont. $30, $39, $49, $59, $69. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com or (800) 745-3000. Parking is $20, cash only. For information, visit www.allstatearena.com.

“Candles and Carols”

The Park Ridge Chorale presents its holiday concert at 7 p.m. Dec. 8 at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 205 N. Prospect, Park Ridge. Advance tickets $16, $14 seniors; at the door $18, $16 seniors; free for children under 18. Call (847) 825-2216 or (847) 823-3958.

73rd annual Holiday Concert

Presented by the Northwestern University Symphony Orchestra and University Chorale at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8 and 3 p.m. Dec. 9 at Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. Program includes a contemporary setting of the Songs of Mary and Simeon by composer James MacMillan. $12; $6 students. Call (847) 467-4000 or visit www.pickstaiger.org.

A Festival of Lessons and Carols

The story of Christmas is portrayed in readings and carols for brass, strings, organ, percussion and choir, 10:40 a.m. Dec. 9 in Northwestern University’s Alice Millar Chapel, 1870 Sheridan Road, Evanston. Admission is a freewill offering. Call (847) 491-5441.

“Polish Carols, Song & Dance”

Presented by the Lira Ensemble at 3 p.m. Dec. 9 at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie. $35, $45, $55. Call (847) 673-6300 or visit www.northshorecenter.org.

An Evanston Symphony Christmas

Presented at 3 p.m. Dec. 9 in the Evanston Township High School auditorium, 1600 Dodge, Evanston. The event features North Shore Choral Society, Evanston Dance Ensemble, Evanston Children’s Choir and the ETHS Concert Choir and A Capella Singers. $25-$40; $10-$15 children under 18; Family Package $70-$100. Visit www.evanstonsymphony.org.

“Holiday Delights”

Presented by a cappella choral ensemble Bella Voce at 4 p.m. Dec. 9 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 939 Hinman Ave., Evanston. $30-$38; $15 students. Visit http://bellavoce.tix.com or call (877) 755-6277.

“Holiday Treats”

Presented by Rembrandt Chamber Players at 3 p.m. Dec. 9 at Northwestern University’s Alice Millar Chapel, 1870 Sheridan Road, Evanston. Program includes works by Bach and Mozart. $35; $25 for young adults ages 18-30; $10 for students. Call (312) 360-3145 or visit www.rembrandtchamberplayers.org.

“Starlight, Songs and Candles Bright”

Presented by Youth Choral Theater of Chicago at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12 at Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. $9-$26. www.youthchoraltheater.org/tickets.

“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.

“Carols and Cocoa”

Presented by the Rising Stars Theatre Co. at 2 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Stahl Family Theatre, 5900 W. Belmont, Chicago. $10. Visit www.risingstarschicago.com or call (773) 736-2490.

Holiday concert

Second City Brass peforms Christmas and holiday music at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 22 at St. Paul of the Cross Church, 320 S. Washington St., Park Ridge. Free-will donations accepted. Call (847) 825-7605.

“Making a List: The Secular Songs of Christmas”

Presented by musical theatre historian Charles Troy at 1 p.m. Dec. 5 at Gorilla Tango’s Skokie Theatre, 7924 Lincoln Ave. Skokie. $12 in advance; $14 at the door. Visit www.gorillatango.com or call (773) 598-4549.

“12 Gifts of Christmas”

Screened at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11 at Niles 12, 301 Golf Mill Center, Niles, and Randhurst Village 12, 200 Randhurst Village Drive, Mount Prospect, featuring storytellers, musicians and illusionist Harris III demonstrating the magic of Christmas. Tickets available at theater box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com.

New Year’s Eve Runway Ball

Held 8:30 p.m.-1 a.m. Dec. 31 at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare, 9300 Bryn Mawr Ave., Rosemont. The event features live music by bands Dot Dot Dot and 7th Heaven; entry to the Dance Club featuring DJ-SPIN; and access to Red Bar, where Tony Ocean performs Frank Sinatra covers and more. $79. For tickets, visit http://nyerunwayball-PR.eventbrite.com.

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. Fridays and Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 16, at The Side Project, 1439 W. Jarvis, Chicago. $15 or pay what you can at the door. Visit www.curioustheatrebranch.com.

Gorilla Tango’s Skokie Theatre

7924 Lincoln Ave. Skokie. www.gorillatango.com. (773) 598-4549. Through Dec. 15, 6 p.m. Saturdays: “Sleeping Indoors,” a play about a family that adopts a homeless man for the holidays. $15. Through Dec. 21, 7:30 p.m. Fridays: “The Tale of Danny Tanner: A Full House Musical.” $15.

“The Odd Couple”

Northlight Theatre presents the Neil Simon comedy through Dec. 16 at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie. Performances are Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. (except Dec. 11); Wednesdays at 1 p.m. (except Dec. 12) and 7:30 p.m.; Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.; Fridays at 8 p.m.; Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. (except Dec. 15) and 8 p.m.; and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. (except Dec. 9 and 16). $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.

“Up”

The dramatic comedy will be presented through Dec. 9 in Studio One at Oakton Community College, 1600 E. Golf Road, Des Plaines. Curtain at 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Sundays. $10 for general admission; $8 students and seniors. Call (847) 635-1900.

CLASSICAL

Canzonetta Youth String Chamber Orchestra

Performs its winter concert, featuring music of Vivaldi, Bach, Vitali and Telemann, at 7 p.m. Dec. 6 in the auditorium at the Community Recreation Center, 3000 Glenview Road, Wilmette. Free admission. Visit www.canzonetta.us.

Chicago Chamber Musicians

Presenting “Russian Heartbreak,” works of Prokofiev, Glazunov, Shostakovich and Borodin, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2 at Music Institute of Chicago’s Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Ave., Evanston. $35-$45; free for college students. Call (312) 225-5226 or visit www.chicagochambermusic.org.

Lutkin Hall

At Northwestern University, 700 University Place, Evanston. (847) 467-4000. Nov. 29, 7:30 p.m.: Chicago Wind Quintet, $8; $5 students. Dec. 2, 3 p.m.: Northwestern University’s Women’s Chorus sings a variety of works from all eras, exploring the repertoire of music for treble voices. $6; $4 students. Dec. 8, 7:30 p.m.: “Watercolors: Music of Claude Debussy,” performed by Bienen School of Music piano students. $6; $4 students. Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m.: “My Beloved is Mine: Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears,” an art song recital. $8; $5 students.

Music Institute of Chicago

Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Ave., Evanston. (847) 905-1500. www.musicinst.org. Dec. 1, 2 p.m.: Adult student recital. Free; reception follows performance. Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m.: MIC’s Community Symphony performs works by Strauss, Bruch and Dvorak. Free; reception follows performance. 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 Orion Ensemble

Presents “A Night at the Opera,” featuring works by Wagner and Verdi, at 3 p.m. Dec. 2 at Music Institute of Chicago’s Nichols Hall, 1490 Chicago Ave., Evanston. $26; $23 seniors; $10 students; free children 12 and younger. Call (630) 628-9591 or visit www.orionensemble.org.

Pick-Staiger Concert Hall

At Northwestern University, 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. Information: (847) 491-5441; tickets: (847) 467-4000. www.pickstaiger.org. Dec. 2, 3 p.m.: Concert Band performs band standards. $6; $4 students. Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m.: Philharmonia performs music of Vasily Kalinnikov and Bizet. $6; $4 students. Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m.: Bienen Contemporary/Early Vocal Ensemble, “At Winter’s Edge,” a performance of early and contemporary vocal music in the spirit of winter. $6; $4 students. Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m.: Contemporary Music Ensemble. $6; $4 students. Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m.: Northwestern University Chamber Orchestra performs works by Mozart, Glazunov and Hindemith. $6; $4 students. Dec. 7, 7:30 p.m.: Symphonic Band, $6; $4 students. Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m.: Keyboard Conversations, “Claude Debussy: Clair de lune, Fireworks and Beyond,” presented by pianist Jeffrey Siegel. $22; $16 students.

Skokie Valley Symphony Orchestra

Performing selections from “The Nutcracker” and works by Prokofiev and Borodin at 3 p.m. Dec. 2 at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie. $30-$35; $27-$32 seniors; $14 students; $41 box seats. Visit www.svso.org.

POP/FOLK/JAZZ

Akoo Theatre at Rosemont

5400 N. River Road, Rosemont. Tickets available at www.ticketmaster.com or (800) 745-3000. For information about the theater, visit www.rosemonttheatre.com. Dec. 7, 8 p.m.: Distant Worlds: Music from Final Fantasy. $57.45-$180.45. Dec. 8, 8 p.m.: Johnny Mathis. $77.95-$108.70. Dec. 9, 7 p.m.: Multi-platinum rock bands Daughtry and 3 Doors Down, with P.O.D. $40, $50, $60.

Allstate Arena

6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont. Tickets available at www.ticketmaster.com or (800) 745-3000. For information, visit www.allstatearena.com. Parking is $20, cash only. Nov. 29-30, 7:30 p.m.: The Who: Quadrophenia and More. $39.50, $59.50, $80.50, $129.50. April 6: Maroon 5 with special guests Neon Trees and Owl City.

Chambers

6881 N. Milwaukee Ave., Niles. (847) 647-8282. www.thechambersonline.com. Music at 9 p.m. No cover, unless noted otherwise. Nov. 30: Bonnie Bridges. Dec. 1: The Meteors (oldies). $5.

Chicago cover band concert

25 or 6 to 4 performs at 6 p.m. Dec. 1 at St. Viator High School’s Jeuck Auditorium, 1213 E. Oakton, Arlington Heights, with a special guest Danny Seraphine, the original drummer for Chicago. $65. Proceeds benefit the school’s tuition assistance program and the fine arts program. Register at www.saintviator.com/ns/parent/specialevent.asp or call (847) 421-7390.

InterContinental Chicago O’Hare Hotel

Montrose Room, 5300 N. River Road, Rosemont. (847) 544-5300. www.montroseroom.com. Nov. 30, 8:30 p.m.: The Neverly Brothers (rockabilly, R&B). $10, $15. Dec. 7, 8:30 p.m.: Coco Montoya. $10; $15 VIP. Dec. 8, 8:30 p.m.: Sam Llanas, formerly of the BoDeans. $18; $25 VIP.

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 Manager.” $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. Dec. 6, 8 p.m.: Jazz artists Chick Corea (piano) and Gary Burton (vibraphone) are joined by the Harlem String Quartet to present fused jazz and classical chamber music. $60-$80.

Pick-Staiger Concert Hall

At Northwestern University, 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. Information: (847) 491-5441; tickets: (847) 467-4000. www.pickstaiger.org. Nov. 29, 7:30 p.m.: “An Evening with John Medeski.” $18; $10 students.

S.P.A.C.E.

1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston. www.evanstonspace.com. (847) 492-8860. Shows at 8 p.m., unless noted otherwise. Nov. 29: Allison Miller’s Boom Tic Boom featuring Myra Melford, Jenny Scheinman and Todd Sickafoose (jazz). $12/$15. Nov. 30, 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.: Irma Thomas (soul). $25-$65. Dec. 1-2, 7 p.m.: Guitarist Leo Kottke, $30-$62. Dec. 3: The Last Bison (indie/folk). $10/$12. Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m.: Judith Owen & Harry Shearer’s Holiday Sing-A-Long. $22/$25. Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m.: Celtic Tenors, $30-$70. Dec. 6: Melissa Ferrick (folk). $25/$30. Dec. 7: Bonnie Koloc (folk). $20-$40. Dec. 9, 3 p.m.: Christine Lavin and Uncle Bonsai (folk). $15/$18. Dec. 9, 7 p.m.: Raul Midon (Latin). $18/$20. Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m.: Foiled Again (jazz/folk). $15/$20. Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m.: Adrianne Gonzalez, Maia Sharp, Garrison Starr (pop/rock). $12/$14. Dec. 12: Dave Specter Holiday Blues Party with Tad Robinson. $12/$15. 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. 30, 6 p.m.: The Flat Five (pop/rock). $15-$35. Dec. 31, 10 p.m.: Alejandro Escovedo (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. 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. 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. 16: Andy McKee, $22-$42. 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.

AUDITIONS & OPPORTUNITIES

James Downing Theatre

Holding auditions for “Little Women” 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 1 at Pilgrim Lutheran Church and School, 4300 N. Winchester, Chicago. Seeking to cast six women and four men. Production dates Feb. 16-March 23. Submit headshot and resume to coreyl.mills@yahoo.com; include preferred audition date and time.

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.

Evanston Children’s Choir

Seeking six high school singers for an internship program with its Concert Choir beginning January 2013. Interns would be full members of the Concert Choir and would have additional responsibilities functioning as section leaders for each of the three vocal sections. Benefits include community service hours and free tuition, normally $205 per semester. Interested singers must audition/interview with director Gary Geiger. Call (847) 733-0814 or e-mail gary@evanstonchildrenschoir.org.

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.

Christmas in Park Ridge Boutique

Seeks crafters for the event, to be held from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 7-8 at Park Ridge Presbyterian Church, Crescent and Delphia. Space rental $20-$80, plus 10% of sales. Call (847) 823-0920. Application deadline is Dec. 1.

BENEFITS

Modern Madrigal Dinner

Music Institute of Chicago S.W.A.T. Team Singers present an afternoon of music, five-course buffet-style dinner and silent auction at 3 p.m. Dec. 2 at Prairie Moon Restaurant, 1502 Sherman Ave., Evanston. In addition to 16th century madrigals, the benefit presents the world premiere of 10 “modern madrigals.” $30; $50 premium admission includes professional recording of the “modern madrigals.” Call (847) 905-1500.

BOOKS & POETRY

Lincolnwood Public Library

4000 W. Pratt Ave. (847) 677-5277. www.lincolnwoodlibrary.org. Dec. 7, 10:30 a.m.: Book reviewer Suzanne Hales discusses Blood, Bones, & Butter by Gabrielle Hamilton. Dec. 10, 11 a.m.: Discussion of A Grown-Up Kind of Pretty by Joshilyn Jackson.

CHILD’S PLAY

“Annie”

At 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 8; 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Dec. 9; 7 p.m. Dec. 14 and 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 15 at the Youth Company Chicago Studios, 5340 W. Lawrence Ave., Chicago (Jefferson Park). Visit www.youthcompanychicago.org or call (312) 324-3700.

Lincolnwood Public Library

4000 W. Pratt Ave. (847) 677-5277. www.lincolnwoodlibrary.org. Dec. 3, 3:30 p.m.: “Brave,” rated PG. Dec. 17, 3:30 p.m.: “ParaNorman,” rated PG.

Niles Public Library

6960 Oakton St., Niles. (847) 663-6405. www.nileslibrary.org. Dec. 22, 2 p.m.: Saturday Family Movie Series features “Brave,” rated PG.

COMEDY

Allstate Arena

6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont. Tickets available at www.ticketmaster.com or (800) 745-3000. For information, visit www.allstatearena.com. Parking is $20, cash only. Dec. 27, 7:30 p.m.: Standup comedian Jeff Dunham — “Disorderly Conduct” World Tour. $46.50.

Gorilla Tango’s Skokie Theatre

7924 Lincoln Ave. Skokie. www.gorillatango.com. (773) 598-4549. Dec. 2, 7 p.m.: “Chicago Loves NY,” a benefit comedy show for Hurricane Sandy relief. $20. Visit www.indiegogo.com/chicago-loves-ny. Through Dec. 29, 9 p.m. Saturdays, except show starts at 11 p.m. Dec. 1 and 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.

Zanies Comedy Club

5437 Park Place, Rosemont. http://rosemont.zanies.com. Showtimes at 8 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 8 p.m. and 10:15 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Two-item food/beverage minimum. Nov. 30 and Dec. 1: Richard Lewis. Dec. 5-6: Lenny Schmidt. Dec. 7-8: Norm MacDonald. Dec. 12: Michael Issac. Dec. 13-14: Larry Reeb. Dec. 15: Chris Hardwick. Dec. 19-22: Kevin Bozeman. Dec. 27-28: Russ Williamson. Dec. 29: Hannibal Buress. Dec. 30: Michael Palascak. Dec. 31: Fortune Feimster.

DANCE

Leikarringen Heimhug Norwegian Folk Dancers

Meet weekly, from 7:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesdays, at Norwood Crossing, 6016 N. Nina, Chicago. New members, age 16 and older, welcome. No dance experience needed, just interest in Scandinavian folk dance. Call (847) 823-7596 or e-mail kronmo815@gmail.com; or (847) 692-6616 or karlp57@aol.com.

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”

Presented by Evanston Dance Ensemble at 7 p.m. Nov. 30 and 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Dec. 1-2 at Northwestern University’s Josephine Louis Theatre, 20 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. $22; $15 children, students and seniors. Call (847) 491-7282 or visit www.tic.northwestern.edu.

Line dancing

For all ages, held from 7-10 p.m. every Tuesday at the White Eagle Banquet Hall, 6839 N. Milwaukee Ave., Niles. Beginner lessons are at 7:30 p.m. and new dance or review at 8 p.m. Admission: $7; $5 for ages 17 and under. Call (847) 965-6353 or e-mail at somedaydd@att.net.

FAIRS & FESTIVALS

Native American Arts & Crafts Holiday Bazaar

Native American artists will offer authentic, handmade, traditional and contemporary art and craft items from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 1 and noon-4 p.m. Dec. 2 at the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian, 3009 Central St., Evanston. Admission to the bazaar is $5, which includes admission to the museum; free for ages 12 and younger. Call (847) 475-1030 or visit www.mitchellmuseum.org.

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. Girl’s Night Out, 6-9 p.m. Nov. 29. Jewelry Fest, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 1. “Shop Your Cause” Night, 6-9 p.m. Dec. 5. Men’s Shopping Day, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 15. EAC Student Expo, Dec. 1-19. Visit www.evanstonartcenter.org.

FILM

Lincolnwood Public Library

4000 W. Pratt Ave. (847) 677-5277. www.lincolnwoodlibrary.org. Nov. 30, 1 p.m.: “The Amazing Spider-Man.” Dec. 6, 10:30 a.m.: “Madea’s Witness Protection.” Dec. 6, 1 p.m.: “Sweet Smell of Success.” Dec. 7, 1 p.m.: “The Queen of Versailles.” Dec. 13, 10:30 a.m.: “People Like Us.” Dec. 13, 1 p.m.: “The Shop Around the Corner.” Dec. 14, 1 p.m.: “Men in Black 3.” Dec. 20, 10:30 a.m.: “Ruby Sparks.” Dec. 20, 1 p.m.: “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Dec. 21, 1 p.m.: “The Bourne Legacy.”

Niles Public Library

6960 Oakton St., Niles. (847) 663-6405. www.nileslibrary.org. Dec. 1, 2 p.m.: “What to Expect When You’re Expecting,” rated PG-13. Dec. 20, 2 p.m.: “Darling Companion,” rated PG-13. Closed captioned.

Northwest Chicago Film Society

Classic Film Series is held at 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, unless otherwise noted, at the Portage Theater, 4050 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. Admission is $5. Visit www.northwestchicagofilmsociety.org. Dec. 5: “Upstream” (1927) with live organ accompaniment by Jay Warren. Dec. 12: “The Saga of Anatahan” (1953). Dec. 19: “The Night of the Hunter” (1955) plus the cartoon “Holiday Land” (1934).

LECTURES

Niles Public Library

6960 Oakton St., Niles. (847) 663-6405. www.nileslibrary.org. Dec. 10, 7 p.m.: Lyric Opera Lecture Series features “Hansel and Gretel.”

ORGANIZATIONS

Skokie Photographic Society

Meetings are held at 7:30 p.m. the third Thursday of each month at the Village Hall, 5127 Oakton St., Skokie. All levels of photographic skill are welcome. Call (847) 677-8324 for information.

WORKSHOPS & CLASSES

Music Institute of Chicago

Institute for Therapy through the Arts presents interactive workshops help parents learn to encourage their children to use the arts as ways of expressing themselves, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 4 and 11 at the Evanston West Campus, 2008 Dempster, Evanston. $10 per session. To register, call (847) 448-8336.

Skokie Art Guild

Offering figure drawing workshops from 9 a.m.-noon Saturdays at the Devonshire Cultural Center, 4400 Greenwood, Skokie. Live models; no instructor. Fee per session is $20; $12 for members. Call Steve Gal, (847) 673-4450, or visit www.skokieartguild.org.

ET CETERA

The Actors Gymnasium

At the Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes St., Evanston. (847) 328-2795. www.actorsgymnasium.com. Dec. 1, 3:30-5:30 p.m.: Professional magician Sean Masterson presents the Magic Mastery Workshop for ages 7-12. $55. Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m., and Dec. 2, 3 p.m.: Masterson’s Vaudeville Magic Show. $12.50.

Allstate Arena

6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont. Tickets available at www.ticketmaster.com or (800) 745-3000. For information, visit www.allstatearena.com. Parking is $20, cash only. Jan. 12-13: Professional Bull Riders 2013 PBR Built Ford Tough Series, featuring the top 35 bull riders in the world. $15, $35, $50, $75 and $125.

River Trails Park District

Presenting an arts and crafts supplies and equipment sale, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 1 at 550 Business Center Drive, Mount Prospect. Includes pottery wheels, glazes, tiles, stained glass, clay, stencils and more. For information, call (847) 255-1200.

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

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. At interactive stations following the themes of the exhibition — revolution, sabotage, hate, radicalism, world war, subversion, protest, extremism and terrorism — visitors are able to record their opinions on issues of national security and civil liberties and compare their reactions to those of past Gallup polling results. Dec. 2, 1:30 p.m.: In Conversation With ... Holocaust survivor Estelle Laughlin. A book signing follows. Free with museum admission; reservations recommended. Dec. 6, 6:30 p.m.: Holocaust scholar and Northwestern University History Department chairman Peter Hayes will discuss “What Took So Long? The Wrangle Over Holocaust Restitution Since 1945.” Free with museum admission; reservations recommended.

Skokie Heritage Museum

8031 Floral Ave., Skokie. (847) 674-1500, ext. 3000. www.skokieparks.org. Through Dec. 28: “The Art of Hal Foster.” The exhibit, from the collection of Skokie resident Sid Weiskirch, presents the work of comic book artist Hal Foster.

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. Through Jan. 6: “Changing Views of American Indian Fine Art.” Through Aug. 25, 2013: “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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