CALIFORNIAN: Arts & Entertainment listings for Jan. 1-7, 2009

| Wednesday, December 31, 2008 12:10 PM PST ∞

CALENDAR

Press releases for arts and entertainment events and programs should be typed, double-spaced, with basic information about the event, performance dates and times, location, ticket prices and a public telephone number. Send notices two to three weeks before the event to Preview, 28765 Single Oak Drive, Suite 100, Temecula CA 92590 or via e-mail to calpreview@californian.com. Or fax items to (951) 694-1215.

LOCAL CONCERTS

Pnina Becher ---- 7:30 p.m. Jan. 3; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $12.50-$30 (Temecula Presents package price $100-$130); (866) 653-8696.

Country at The Merc ---- Country singers backed by house band; 7 and 9 p.m. Jan. 3; The Merc, Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $15; (866) 653-8696.

Classics at The Merc ---- Featuring Ensemble Oasis; 3 p.m. Jan. 4; The Merc, Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $10 adults, $5 students; (866) 653-8696.

Aloha at The Merc ---- Kehau Ashton of Nohea Polynesia, hosts an evening of Polynesian music, dancing, and fun. First and second Wednesdays of the month. This performance not considered suitable for children under age 18; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 7; The Merc, Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $15; (866) 653-8696.

Jazz at The Merc ---- Featuring Scott Whitfield with Ginger Berglund; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 8; The Merc, Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $15; (866) 653-8696.

Classics at The Merc ---- 3 p.m. Jan. 11; The Merc, Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $10 adults, $5 students; (866) 653-8696.

Michael McDonald ---- 8 p.m. Jan. 14; Morongo Casino Resort and Spa, 49500 Seminole Drive, Cabazon; $40+; ticketmaster.com.

Aloha at The Merc ---- Kehau Ashton of Nohea Polynesia, hosts an evening of Polynesian music, dancing, and fun. First and second Wednesdays of the month. This performance not considered suitable for children under age 18; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 14; The Merc, Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $15; (866) 653-8696.

Jazz at The Merc ---- Featuring Evan Christopher with Bob Boss; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 15; The Merc, Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $15; (866) 653-8696.

Jenny Rivera ---- 6:30 p.m. Jan. 15; San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino, 777 San Manuel Blvd., Highland; $25-$45; ticketmaster.com.

Zac Harmon ---- 8 p.m. Jan. 16; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $20 (Temecula Presents package price $105); (866) 653-8696.

Interpreti Veneziani ---- 7:30 p.m Jan. 17; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $12.50-$30 (Temecula Presents package price $100-$130); (866) 653-8696.

Classics at The Merc ---- 3 p.m. Jan. 18; The Merc, Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $10 adults, $5 students; (866) 653-8696.

"Blockbuster Hits from The Oscars and Tonys" ---- OnStage Cabaret Orchestra with Debbie Prutsman and John Bisom; 2 p.m. Jan. 18; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $30-$36 (Temecula Presents package price $145-$155); (866) 653-8696.

George Jones ---- 6:30 p.m. Jan. 22; San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino, 777 San Manuel Blvd., Highland; $25-$45; ticketmaster.com.

Willie Nelson ---- 8 p.m. Jan. 23; Morongo Casino Resort and Spa, 49500 Seminole Drive, Cabazon; $35+; ticketmaster.com.

Temecula Live! Country Music Review ---- Temecula Live! is a high energy, opry/variety show dedicated to promoting country music in Southern California. The show is old fashioned family fun set to today's exciting country music. Temecula Live! Country Music Review offers performers, of all ages, the opportunity to showcase their talent in the tradition of music halls everywhere. Backed by the regional favorite country band, The Ranch Rockers, who have been nominated twice for Best Country Band at the San Diego Music Awards. Temecula Live! Country Music Review is partnering with Oak Grove to raise money for At-Risk youth in the Inland Valley Empire. All three shows will benefit Oak Grove's Performing and Literary Arts Center, offering expanded opportunities in the arts for at-risk and special needs children. Tickets purchased are tax deductible donations to Oak Grove, a nonprofit 501c3; 7 p.m. Jan. 23-24 and 2 p.m. Jan. 24; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $22; (866) 653-8696.

"By Popular Demand" ---- The second “play it again” piece is Bach's Orchestra Suite No. 2 in B minor. This piece incorporates dance themes as well. Bach wrote "stylized dances" which were intended for listening not dancing, and its eight movements use traditional French dances as well. The suite begins with an overture, moves through a rondeau, sarabande, two bourrees, a polonaise and a minuet, and ends with a badinerie. The evening ends Handel's Water Music Suite in G Major, written for King George I in 1717 and performed from a barge in the Thames River. Here again, dance movements are foremost, the sarabande, rigaudon, minuet and bourree. Performed by the 12-piece California Chamber Ensemble under the baton of conductor Warren Gref; 2:30 p.m. Jan. 25; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $12.50-$30 ($2.50 accompanied children younger than 12); (866) 653-8696.

Josh Turner ---- Country music; 8 p.m. Jan. 31; Pechanga Showroom, Pechanga Resort & Casino, 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula; $60-$85; (951) 770-2507.

Aloha at The Merc ---- Kehau Ashton of Nohea Polynesia, hosts an evening of Polynesian music, dancing, and fun. First and second Wednesdays of the month. This performance not considered suitable for children under age 18; 7:30 p.m. Feb. 4; The Merc, Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $15; (866) 653-8696.

Aloha at The Merc ---- Kehau Ashton of Nohea Polynesia, hosts an evening of Polynesian music, dancing, and fun. First and second Wednesdays of the month. This performance not considered suitable for children under age 18; 7:30 p.m. Feb. 11; The Merc, Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $15; (866) 653-8696.

The Derailers ---- 8 p.m. Feb. 20; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $20 (Temecula Presents package price $105); (866) 653-8696.

"A World Premiere" ---- 7:30 p.m. Feb. 21; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $12.50-$30 (Temecula Presents package price $100-$130); (866) 653-8696.

"A Tribute to The Big Bands" ---- All Star Big Band with Cassie Miller and Vic Leon; 2 p.m. Feb. 22; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $30-$36 (Temecula Presents package price $145-$155); (866) 653-8696.

Celtic Legends ---- 8 p.m. Feb. 27-28; Pechanga Showroom, Pechanga Resort & Casino, 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula; (951) 770-2507.

San Diego County

ROCK & POP

Lucy's Fur Coat ---- 8:30 p.m. Jan. 8 and 9; the Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., San Diego; $20; (619) 232-4355 or casbahmusic.com.

Al Kooper ---- Classic rock; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 9; Acoustic Music San Diego, 4650 Mansfield St. (Normal Heights United Methodist Church), San Diego; $25; (619) 303-8176 or acousticmusicsandiego.com.

Dead Man's Party ---- 9 p.m. Jan. 10; Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; $13-$15; (858) 481-8140 or bellyup.com.

The Dragons ---- With Deadbolt, Wild Weekend, Black Hondo; 8:30 p.m. Jan. 10; the Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., San Diego; $20-$25; (619) 232-4355 or casbahmusic.com.

David Hidalgo and Louis Perez ---- Members of Los Lobos perform acoustic concert; 8 p.m. Jan. 10; Poway Center for the Performing Arts, 15498 Espola Road, Poway; $42, general; $5, youth 18 and under with purchase of adult ticket; (858) 748-0505 or powayarts.org.

David Lindley ---- 8 p.m. Jan. 11; Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; $18-$20; (858) 481-8140 or bellyup.com.

Meat Puppets ---- With Benji Hughes, I See Hawks in L.A.; 8:30 p.m. Jan. 13; the Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., San Diego; $15; (619) 232-4355 or casbahmusic.com.

Elliott Murphy with Jann Klose ---- Classic rock; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 13; Acoustic Music San Diego, 4650 Mansfield St. (Normal Heights United Methodist Church), San Diego; $15-$20; (619) 303-8176 or acousticmusicsandiego.com.

Marc Broussard ---- With Jessie Baylin, Josh Hoge; 8 p.m. Jan. 14; Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; $20-$22; (858) 481-8140 or bellyup.com.

El Vez Greatest Hits Show ---- 8:30 p.m. Jan. 16; the Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., San Diego; $20; (619) 232-4355 or casbahmusic.com.

The Album Leaf ---- With Ilya; 8:30 p.m. Jan. 17; the Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., San Diego; $15; (619) 232-4355 or casbahmusic.com.

40oz to Freedom ---- With Social Green, Qwiksand; 9 p.m. Jan. 17; Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; $11-$13; (858) 481-8140 or bellyup.com.

The Walkmen ---- With Beach House; 9 p.m. Jan. 19; Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; $16-$18; (858) 481-8140 or bellyup.com.

Three Mile Pilot ---- 8:30 p.m. Jan. 18, 19 and 20; the Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., San Diego; $20 (sold out, Jan. 20); (619) 232-4355 or casbahmusic.com.

North Mississippi All Stars ---- With Hill Country Revue; 9 p.m. Jan. 21; Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; $18-$20; (858) 481-8140 or bellyup.com.

Edwin McCain ---- 8 p.m. Jan. 21; Voodoo Stage, House of Blues San Diego, 1055 Fifth Ave., San Diego; $25-$27; (619) 299-2583 or hob.com/sandiego.

Louis XIV ---- 8:30 p.m. Jan. 21 and 22; the Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., San Diego; $15; (619) 232-4355 or casbahmusic.com.

No Knife ---- With Creedle, Uncle Joe's Big Ol' Driver; 8:30 p.m. Jan. 23; the Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., San Diego; sold out; (619) 232-4355 or casbahmusic.com.

The Penetrators ---- With the Loons; 8:30 p.m. Jan. 24; the Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., San Diego; $20; (619) 232-4355 or casbahmusic.com.

Tapes 'n Tapes ---- With Theresa Andersson; 8:30 p.m. Jan. 25; the Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., San Diego; $20; (619) 232-4355 or casbahmusic.com.

Tyrone Wells ---- 8 p.m. Jan. 27; House of Blues San Diego, 1055 Fifth Ave., San Diego; $15-$17; (619) 299-2583 or hob.com/sandiego.

Goblin Cock ---- With Pleaseeasaur; 8:30 p.m. Jan. 28; the Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., San Diego; $10; (619) 232-4355 or casbahmusic.com.

O.A.R. ---- With Eric Hutchinson; 7 p.m. Jan. 28 and 30; House of Blues San Diego, 1055 Fifth Ave., San Diego; $30-$32.50; (619) 299-2583 or hob.com/sandiego.

The Black Heart Procession ---- With Buckfast Superbee, a.m. vibe; 8:30 p.m. Jan. 29; the Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., San Diego; $15; (619) 232-4355 or casbahmusic.com.

Brian Wilson ---- 8 p.m. Jan. 29; House of Blues San Diego, 1055 Fifth Ave., San Diego; $49.50-$80; (619) 299-2583 or hob.com/sandiego.

Adolescents ---- With Whiskey Dicks; 8:30 p.m. Jan. 30; the Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., San Diego; $15; (619) 232-4355 or casbahmusic.com.

Richard Cheese and Lounge Against the Machine ---- 8 p.m. Jan. 31; Voodoo Stage, House of Blues San Diego, 1055 Fifth Ave., San Diego; $31.50-$55; (619) 299-2583 or hob.com/sandiego.

James Morrison ---- 9 p.m. Jan. 31; Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; call for cover; (858) 481-8140 or bellyup.com.

JAZZ, R&B & BLUES

Boyz II Men ---- 8 p.m. Jan. 15; House of Blues San Diego, 1055 Fifth Ave., San Diego; $35-$57; (619) 299-2583 or hob.com/sandiego.

John Jorgenson Quintet ---- Gypsy jazz; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 15; Acoustic Music San Diego, 4650 Mansfield St. (Normal Heights United Methodist Church), San Diego; $18-$22; (619) 303-8176 or acousticmusicsandiego.com.

John Legend ---- 8 p.m. Jan. 16; RIMAC Arena, UC San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla; $32.50-$52.50; (619) 220-8497 or ticketmaster.com.

Marcia Ball ---- With Billy Watson and His International Silver String Submarine Band; 9 p.m. Jan. 16; Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; $17-$19; (858) 481-8140 or bellyup.com.

George Winston ---- Solo piano; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 16; Birch North Park Theatre, 2891 University Ave., San Diego; $30-$38; (619) 231-5714 or birchnorthparktheatre.net.

COUNTRY & FOLK

April Verch ---- Canadian roots fiddle; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10; San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas; $22; (858) 566-4040 or sdfolkheritage.org.

Trace Bundy ---- Acoustic folk; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10; Acoustic Music San Diego, 4650 Mansfield St. (Normal Heights United Methodist Church), San Diego; $15-$20; (619) 303-8176 or acousticmusicsandiego.com.

The Knitters ---- With the Farmers, the Cheap Leis; 9 p.m. Jan. 15; Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; $20-$22; (858) 481-8140 or bellyup.com.

Fred Eaglesmith ---- Country and folk; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 16; Acoustic Music San Diego, 4650 Mansfield St. (Normal Heights United Methodist Church), San Diego; $15-$20; (619) 303-8176 or acousticmusicsandiego.com.

Peter Rowan ---- Folk; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 17; Acoustic Music San Diego, 4650 Mansfield St. (Normal Heights United Methodist Church), San Diego; $22; (619) 303-8176 or acousticmusicsandiego.com.

Loudon Wainwright III ---- Folk; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 24; Acoustic Music San Diego, 4650 Mansfield St. (Normal Heights United Methodist Church), San Diego; $25; (619) 303-8176 or acousticmusicsandiego.com.

Tracy Byrd ---- With Tracy Lawrence, Richie McDonald; 8 p.m. Jan. 25; House of Blues San Diego; $35-$57; (619) 299-2583 or hob.com/sandiego.

Terri Hendrix with Lloyd Maines ---- Acoustic folk; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 31; San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas; $18; (858) 566-4040 or sdfolkheritage.org.

Dave and Deke Combo ---- With Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys; 8:30 p.m. Jan. 31; the Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., San Diego; $15; (619) 232-4355 or casbahmusic.com.

LOCAL COMEDY

Comedy Club at Pechanga ---- 8 p.m. shows Wednesdays-Thursdays, 8 and 10 p.m. shows Fridays-Saturdays; Pechanga Resort & Casino, 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula; $22; (877) 711-2946, pechanga.com/improv.

Tracy Morgan ---- 6:30 p.m. Jan. 8; San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino, 777 San Manuel Blvd., Highland; $20-$40; ticketmaster.com.

LOCAL THEATER

"Murder Rides Again!" ---- Interactive western mystery-comedy dinner show; 7:30 p.m. Fridays and 7 p.m. Saturdays, runs indefinitely; Country Garden Bar & Grill, 29000 Old Town Front St., Temecula; $32-$35; (951) 323-3292.

Smuin Ballet ---- The late Michael Smuin once described his company as actors that dance. Tony and Emmy-Award winning choreographer, Smuin made the San Francisco Bay Area his home since he was a Principal Dancer with San Francisco Ballet, before going on to dance on Broadway, and appearing in film and television. He was Principal Dancer and Resident Choreographer for American Ballet Theatre before returning to San Francisco. His ballets are currently in the repertories of major dance companies around the country; 8 p.m. Jan. 30-31; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $15-$25 (Temecula Presents package price $50-$80); (866) 653-8696.

"Lend Me a Tenor" ---- Presented by Temecula Valley Players. The Cleveland Opera Company feels they’ll have a sure-fire success when they invite the world’s most famous Italian tenor to perform for them, but mistaken identities, misguided romantic advances, and medical misdiagnosis all lead to an evening of confusion and hysteria in the singer’s hotel suite in this side-splitting comedy; 7:30 p.m. Feb. 5-7, 13-14 and 2 p.m. Feb. 8 and 15; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $17 ($15 groups of 20 or more); (866) 653-8696.

Odyssey Dance Theatre ---- Founded in 1994 and directed by Derryl Yeager, Utah's Odyssey Dance Theatre explodes with world-class bravado, passionate charm, and choreographic invention. The troupe combines the classical virtues of ballet with the attack of jazz, the freedom of modern dance, the raw energy of hip-hop, the syncopated rhythms of tap, the fluid partnering of ballroom, and the spirit of Broadway and Vaudeville to create an accessible fresh dance vocabulary and entertainment genre that engages audiences across the country and around the world. Odyssey's repertoire includes Michael Jackson's "Thriller" and a nostalgic Beatles Anthology, "Let It Be"; 8 p.m. Feb. 27-28; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $15-$25 (Temecula Presents package price $50-$80); (866) 653-8696.

"Celtic Legends" ---- Direct from Ireland, from the cradle of Connemara, comes a fusion of Irish artistry, thrilling dances and electric steps from some of the finest Irish dancers in the world, exhilarating folk music and ethereal songs in a show that has thrilled audiences all over Europe. Featuring live musicians playing fiddles, pipes, accordion, whistles and guitars and under the Artistic Direction of Riverdance’s Michael Londra, this brilliant and legendary look at the music and dance of Ireland comes to the United States following a three-year tour of France and Europe; 8 p.m. Feb. 27-28; Pechanga Showroom, Pechanga Resort & Casino, 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula; TBA; (951) 770-2507.

"Nebbia" ---- In the tradition of Cirque Du Soleil, and at the crossroads where acrobatic theatre, modern circus, and performance come together Nebbia combines theatrics, rhythm, acrobatic skills, circus acts and poetry Emotion and sensuality take up a pivotal position alongside music and singing in the collaborative process embraced by Cirque Eloize and Teatro Sunil. The musical score for this new creation becomes a character in its own right, carrying on a dialogue with the twelve on-stage performers; 8 p.m. April 3-4; Pechanga Showroom, Pechanga Resort & Casino, 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula; TBA; (951) 770-2507.

"Teahouse of the August Moon" ---- Presented by Temecula Valley Players. A young military officer, Captain Fisby, is assigned to carry out "'Plan B" in a tiny Okanawan village, to begin the process of Americanization by instituting a local democratic government, establishing a capitalist economy, and building a school-house in which the village children will be taught English. Fisby is assigned a local interpreter, Sakini, who attempts to explain to him many of the local customs. Fisby, however, is frustrated when the villagers are unable to market their local products, such as cricket cages and lacquered bowls; 7:30 p.m. April 17-18, 24-25 and 2 p.m. April 19 and 26; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $17 ($15 groups of 20 or more); (866) 653-8696.

Aspen Santa Fe Ballet ---- Founded in 1990 by long-time Aspenite Bebe Schweppe, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet is a nationally recognized professional dance company with homes in Aspen and Santa Fe. Nationally renowned as an eclectic, innovative dance company with a solid foundation in classical ballet, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet has made a lasting impression with a company of 10 versatile, energetic dancers performing a sophisticated repertoire featuring some of the world's foremost choreographers. International appearances and touring throughout the United States have earned the company glowing reviews and enthusiastic audience receptions. For more than a decade, the company's signature style has encompassed a far-reaching aesthetic vision rooted in an honest expression of the art of dance; 8 p.m. May 1-2; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $15-$25 (Temecula Presents package price $50-$80); (866) 653-8696.

"Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" ---- Based on the popular 1988 film, the production centers on two con men living on the French Riviera. Suave and sophisticated Lawrence Jameson makes a lavish living swindling the rich. Small-time crook Freddy Benson, swindles women by awakening their compassion. After meeting, they unsuccessfully attempt to work together only to find that the town isn’t big enough for both of them. They agree on a settlement: the first one to extract $50,000 from a young female target, heiress Christine Colgate, wins and the other must leave town. A hilarious battle of cons ensues, that will keep audiences laughing, humming and guessing to the end; 8 p.m. May 15-16; Pechanga Showroom, Pechanga Resort & Casino, 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula; TBA; (951) 770-2507.

San Diego County

"American Buffalo" ---- Compass Theatre presents David Mamet's edgy 1977 drama about three small-time crooks planning a heist; previews, Wednesday through Jan. 9; opens Jan. 10 and runs through Feb. 11; showtimes, 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 4 p.m. Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; Compass Theatre, Sixth Avenue at Pennsylvania Street, San Diego; call for ticket prices; contains strong language; (619) 688-9210.

"Annie" ---- Broadway/San Diego presents the national touring production of this musical based on the "Little Orphan Annie" comic strip; 7:30 p.m. Jan. 9 and 10; 2 p.m. Jan. 10; 1 and 6 p.m. Jan. 11; San Diego Civic Theatre, Third Avenue at B Street, San Diego; $20-$61; (619) 220-8497.

"As Much As You Can" ---- Diversionary Theatre presents Paul Oakley Stovall's comedy about a gay black man who shows up at a family wedding with his white Swedish lover; opens Jan. 8 and runs through Jan. 25; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; 7 p.m. Sunday; Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd., San Diego; $29-$33; (619) 220-0097.

"At the Hop With the Alley Cats" ---- A cappella doo-wop harmony quartet mixes music with comedy and audience interaction in a 1-hour, 45-minute family-friendly show; 7 p.m. Fridays; Welk Resort Theatre, 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive, Escondido; $25, adults; $10, children ages 3 to 15; (888) 802-7469.

"Blockbuster Hits from the Oscars and Tonys" ---- OnStage Cabaret Orchestra with Debbie Prutsman and John Bisom; 2 p.m. Jan. 18; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; $30-$36; (866) 653-8696.

"Boomers: The Musical Revue of a Generation: The Holiday Edition" ---- Lamb's Players Theatre has extended its run of this on this musical trip through the sights and sounds of the '50s, '60s, '70s and '80s at its new resident theater in the Gaslamp Quarter; 7:30 p.m. Thursdays; 4 and 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; runs through Feb. 22; Horton Grand Theatre, 444 Fourth Ave., San Diego; $36-$56; (619) 437-0600.

"Comedy & Magic" ---- Family-friendly evening of stand-up comedy and magic tricks featuring Scott "Mr. Punchline" Wood and "Anthony the Magic"; 7 p.m. Wednesdays; Welk Resort Theatre, Lawrence Welk Resort, 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive, Escondido; $25, adults; $10, children; (760) 749-3448.

"Daddy Diaries" ---- San Diego Repertory Theatre and actor Rick Najera will present a workshop performance of Najera's new Latino-style comedy based on his life as a new father; 7 p.m. Jan. 27; Lyceum Theatre 79 Horton Plaza, San Diego; $15; (619) 544-1000.

"The Dresser" ---- North Coast Repertory Theatre presents award-winning actor Jonathan McMurtry in Ronald Harwood's drama about an aging English stage actor and his faithful wardrobe assistant in a down-and-out theatrical touring company during World War II; previews, Jan. 14-16; opens Jan. 17 and runs through Feb. 8; showtimes, 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2 and 7 p.m. Sundays; North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach; $28-$45; (858) 481-1055.

"Doubt: A Parable" ---- San Diego Repertory Theatre presents John Patrick Shanley's Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning play about a strong-willed nun who suspects a priest at their Catholic school of an improper relationship with a boy student; previews, Jan. 10-15; opens Jan. 16 and runs through Feb. 8; showtimes, 7 p.m. Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, San Diego; $25-$53; (619) 544-1000.

"Love Song" ---- Cygnet Theatre presents the Southern California premiere of John Kolvenbach's offbeat comedy about an oddball loner who's trying to find love in his life; opens Jan. 15 and runs through Feb. 22; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 and 7 p.m. Sundays; Cygnet Theatre, 6663 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego; $22-$38; (619) 337-1525.

Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theatre ---- The Balboa Park Puppet Guild presents puppet performances for audiences ages 3 and up; upcoming shows: "Jack and the Beanstalk," Thursday through Sunday; showtimes, 10 and 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays-Fridays; 11 a.m., 1 and 2:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; plus special free performances during December Nights, 6 and 7 p.m. Dec. 5-6; Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theater, Balboa Park, San Diego; $5, adults; $4, seniors; $3, children 12 and under; (619) 544-9203.

"Movin' Out" ---- California Center for the Arts, Escondido, presents the national touring production of this Twyla Tharp dance musical that dramatizes the experiences of the '60s and '70s Vietnam War generation through the music of Billy Joel; 8 p.m. Jan. 29; California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $52-$65; (800) 988-4253.

"Musical of Musicals (the musical)!" ---- San Diego State University's theater department presents Eric Rockwell and Joanne Bogart's musical that spoofs the musical theater genre; 8 p.m. Feb. 20-21, 24-28; 2 p.m. Feb. 22 and 28 and March 1; Experimental Theater, SDSU, 52-- Campanile Drive, San Diego; (619) 594-6884.

"Music and Memories" ---- Welk Resort Theatre brings back, by popular demand, Wayland Pickard in his one-man tribute to the music, memories, costumes and showmanship of Liberace; opens Friday and runs through Feb. 8; showtimes, 1:45 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays; 8 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays; Welk Resort Theatre, Lawrence Welk Resort, 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive, Escondido; $58-$63, includes buffet lunch or dinner; $44-$47, show only; (760) 749-3448.

"Pump Boys and Dinettes" ---- Moonlight Stage Productions' winter season continues with this country music revue featuring singing waitresses at an old-fashioned diner on rural Highway 57; opens Jan. 29 and runs through Feb. 22; showtimes, 8 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays; 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; Avo Playhouse, 303 Main St., Vista; $18-$24; (760) 724-2110.

"The Queen of Bingo" ---- California Center for the Arts, Escondido, presents the national touring production of this stage comedy about two sisters (played by men in drag) doggedly competing for the coveted prize of bingo queen at the local church hall; 8 p.m. Jan. 23 and 24; California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $27; (800) 988-4253.

"Relatively Speaking" ---- PowPAC, Poway's Community Theatre, presents Alan Ayckbourn's British farce about marital mixups in 1960s London; opens Jan. 16 and runs through Feb. 8; showtimes, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; PowPAC, 13250 Poway Road, Poway; $15, general; $13, students, seniors and active military; (858) 679-8085.

"Room Service" ---- Lamb's Players Theatre presents this classic 1930s screwball comedy about a broke producer rehearsing a Broadway play in a jam-packed hotel; pens Feb. 6 and runs through March 22; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays; 4:30 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 2:30 p.m. Sundays; Lamb's Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado; $24-$58; (619) 437-0600.

"Seussical Jr." ---- Carlsbad Community Theatre presents a youth-cast version of this musical adaptation of Dr. Seuss' best-loved books; 7 p.m. Jan. 29-31; 2 p.m. Jan. 31; Carlsbad Cultural Arts Center, 3557 Monroe St., Carlsbad; $15, general; (760) 931-8709.

"The Shadow Box" ---- Scripps Ranch Theatre presents Michael Cristofer's Pulitzer Prize and Tony-winning play about three families facing the loss of a loved one; opens Jan. 16 and runs through Feb. 8; showtimes, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; Scripps Ranch Theatre, Alliant University, 10455 Pomerado Road, San Diego; $19, general; $17 students, seniors, active military; $9, children 12 and under; for audiences 13 and over; (858) 578-7728.

"Six Degrees of Separation" ---- The Old Globe presents John Guare's Pulitzer Prize-winning play about a charming con artist who convinces a wealthy Upper East Side couple that he's the son of a famous film star opens Jan. 10 and runs through Feb. 15; showtimes, 7 p.m. Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; Old Globe Theatre, Balboa Park, San Diego; $29-$66; (619) 234-5623.

The Smothers Brothers ---- California Center for the Arts, Escondido, presents Tom and Dick Smothers offering their humor, music and insight on their 40 years in show business; 2 and 7 p.m. Jan. 11; California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $40-$55; (800) 988-4253.

"Theater on the Water" ---- Oceanside Sailing presents a murder mystery theater cruise where passengers will take part in an interactive mystery theater program while enjoying a cruise of Oceanside's harbor aboard a 36-foot catamaran. Light snacks and refreshments will be served at various stopsy; 6 p.m. Fridays-Sundays; Oceanside Sailing, Dolphin Dock, Oceanside Harbor; $79 (includes 2 1/2- to 3-hour cruise, show and snacks); (760) 804-5788.

"Wedding to Die For" ---- Fallbrook Players presents an audience-interactive murder-mystery dinner theater program set at a wedding; 7 p.m. Thursday and the third Thursdays of each month; Hukilau Restaurant, Fallbrook Golf Club, 2757 Gird Road, Fallbrook; $30 (includes dinner); (760) 728-0998.

"Where There's a Will ... There's a Wake" ---- Mystery Cafe Dinner Theatre presents a fast-paced mystery-comedy about a series of murders that take place in a 1920s speakeasy; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; runs indefinitely; Imperial House Restaurant, 505 Kalmia St., San Diego; $56.50-$59.50, price includes four-course dinner; (619) 544-1600.

"Wicked" ---- Stephen Schwartz's epic musical, based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, tells the story about what happened in Oz before Dorothy dropped in; 8 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays; 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sundays; runs through Jan. 11; Pantages Theatre, 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood; $35-$98, general seating; $177.50-$202.50, VIP seating (orchestra, front and center); (213) 365-3500 or pantages-theatre.com.

"You, Nero" ---- South Coast Repertory presents the world premiere of Amy Freed's comedy that imagines a meeting between the vain Roman ruler Nero and a troubled playwright; opens Sunday and runs through Jan. 25; showtimes, 7:45 p.m. Tuesdays-Sundays; 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; Argyros Stage, South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa; $20-$64; (714) 708-5555.