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, 207 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Escondido, 92025, or via e-mail to preview@nctimes.com. Or fax items to (760) 745-3769.

THEATER

"Aladdin Jr." ---- Broadway Bound Youth Theatre presents this youth-cast musical based on the story of "Aladdin and the Magic Lamp"; 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon and 3 p.m. Saturday; Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, San Diego; $12-$20; broadwayboundyouth.org.

"An American Christmas" ---- Lamb's Players Theatre and the Hotel del Coronado present their annual holiday musical dinner party, where members of an extended San Diego family, circa 1909, invite guests to join their lavish holiday dinner and celebration, held in the Hotel's Grand Ballroom; the three-hour party includes a multicourse dinner, audience-interactive sing-alongs and live entertainment themed to 100 years ago; 6:30 p.m. Dec. 13-27 (no performance on Christmas day); Hotel del Coronado, Orange Avenue, Coronado; $115-$160, adults; $8-$125, children ages 5 to 12; 619-437-0600 or lambsplayers.org.

"An Evening of Entertainment: Broadway and the Bible" ---- The Schantz Organ & Music Series presents this benefit concert/theater event featuring the first act of "The Apple Tree" and selections from the musicals "God's Favorite," "Milk and Honey," "Opal" and "Two by Two" featuring local actors and singers; 7 p.m. Friday and Sunday; San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas; freewill offering; 760-753-6582 or encinitaschurch.com.

"Angels in America, Part II: Perestroika" ---- Palomar College's theater department presents the second part of Tony Kushner's landmark drama about a Mormon man struggling with his sexuality while the AIDS epidemic takes hold; opens Nov. 13 and runs through Nov. 22; showtimes, 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; 4 p.m. Thursdays; Howard Brubeck Theatre, 1140 W. Mission Road, San Marcos; $12, general; $10, seniors; $8, students (for mature audiences); 760-744-1150, ext. 2453 or palomarperforms.com.

"An Unscripted Carol" ---- North Coast Repertory Theatre presents this holiday comedy where actors create an improvisational adaptation of Charles Dickens' holiday classic on the spot; 7:30 p.m. Dec. 21 and 28; North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach; $15-$20; 858-481-1055 or northcoastrep.org.

"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. Sundays; Welk Resorts Theatre, Welk Resorts San Diego, 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive, Escondido; $25, adults; $10, children ages 3 to 15; 888-802-7469 or welktheatresandiego.com.

"Beatrice the Butterfly" ---- The Theatre School at North Coast Rep presents Matt Thompson's stage adaptation of Linda Sherry's short story, featuring an all-youth cast; 12:30 and 5 p.m. Nov. 20; 2 and 5 p.m. Nov. 21 and 22; North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach; $9-$12; 858-481-1055 or northcoastrep.org.

"Bent" --- Diversionary and ion Theatres co-present Martin Sherman's dark drama about gay prisoners in a World War II Nazi concentration camp; 7:30 p.m. Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 and 7 p.m. Sundays; through Nov. 22; for mature audiences; Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd., San Diego; $33, general; $29, military, seniors and students; 619-220-0097 or diversionary.org.

"The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" ---- Village Church Community Theater presents this heartwarming holiday comedy about a troubled family redeemed by the holiday spirit; 7 p.m. Dec. 4 and 5; 2 p.m. Dec. 6; Village Church, 6225 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe; call for ticket prices; 760-315-8015.

"Bonnie and Clyde" ---- La Jolla Playhouse presents the world premiere of Frank Wildhorn, Don Black and Ivan Menchell's musical based on the lives of Depression-era bank robbers Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow; opens Tuesday and runs through Dec. 20; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; 7 p.m. Sundays; Mandell Weiss Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse complex, UC San Diego, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla; $43-$78; has some adult content; 858-550-1010 or lajollaplayhouse.com.

"Oh Come All Ye Faithful: Black Nativity, the Musical" ---- Common Ground Theatre presents this soulful retelling of the birth of Jesus with gospel choirs, hip hop, spoken wordl, rap, crunk dance, and other music and dance forms; opens Dec. 4 and runs through Dec. 13; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays; Educational Cultural Complex, 4343 Ocean View Blvd., San Diego; $25, general; $17, seniors and students; $10, children under 12; 619-263-7911 or www.commongroundtheatre.org.

"Boston Marriage" ---- Compass Theatre presents David Mamet's witty drama about two 19th-century New England women whose symbiotic relationship is tested by other romantic rivals, both male and female; opens Thursday and runs through Nov. 22; showtimes, 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 4 p.m. Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; Compass Theatre, 3704 Sixth Ave., San Diego; $20-$2; for mature audiences; 619-688-9210 or compasstheatre.com.

"Camino Real" ---- UC San Diego Theatre and Dance presents Tennessee Williams' drama about a dead-end community for burned-out poets, boxers and dreamers; preview, 7 p.m. Nov. 23; regular shows, 8 p.m. Nov. 24 and 28, Dec. 2-5; 2 p.m. Nov. 28; Potiker Theatre, UC San Diego, La Jolla; $20, general; $15, seniors; $10, UCSD students with ID; 858-534-4574 or theatre.ucsd.edu/season.

"A Christmas Carol" ---- North Coast Repertory Theatre presents its third annual production of Jacqueline Goldfinger's adaptation of the Charles Dickens holiday classic, starring Jonathan McMurtry as Scrooge; previews, Dec. 9 and 10; opens Dec. 11 and runs through Dec. 27; showtimes, 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2 and 7 p.m. Sundays; North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach; $44-$50; 858-481-1055 or northcoastrep.org.

"A Christmas Carol, The Musical" ---- Welk Resort Theatre presents Alan Menken and Lynn Ahrens' 1994 musical adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic; opens Nov. 12 and runs through Jan. 3; showtimes, 1:45 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays; 8 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays; Welk Resorts Theatre, Welk Resorts San Diego, 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive, Escondido; $58-$63, adults (includes buffet lunch or dinner); $44-$47, adults, show only; 760-749-3448 or welktheatresandiego.com.

"A Christmas Carol" ---- South Coast Repertory presents Hal Landon Jr. as Scrooge in the company's 30th annual production of Jerry Patch's adaptation of the Charles Dickens holiday classic; previews, Nov. 28-Dec. 1; opens Dec. 4 and runs through Dec. 26; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; 2:30 p.m. Saturdays; noon and 4 p.m. Sundays; Segerstrom Stage, South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa; 35-$40; 714-708-5555 or www.scr.org.

"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 Resorts Theatre, Welk Resorts San Diego, 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive, Escondido; $25, adults; $10, children; 760-749-3448 or welktheatresandiego.com.

"Dearly Beloved" ---- Calvin Christian High School presents this comedy about a dysfunctional Southern family wedding; 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; Calvin Christian High School, 2000 N. Broadway, Escondido; $5, adults; $3, students; 760-489-6430 or calvinchristianescondido.org.

"Disney's The Lion King" ---- Broadway/San Diego presents the national touring production of this Tony Award-winning musical based on the animated Disney film about an orphaned lion cub's coming of age; 1 and 7:30 p.m. Thursday; 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Saturday; 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sunday; San Diego Civic Theatre, Third Avenue at B Street, San Diego; $17.50-$76.50; 619-570-1100 or www.broadwaysd.com.

"Dog Act" ---- Moxie Theatre presents a remount of its 2005 smash debut, Liz Duffy Adams' quirky, imaginative comedy-drama about a traveling theater troupe in post-apocalyptic America that has survived by creating its own language; 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; through Nov. 22; Moxie Theatre@The Rolando Theatre, 6663 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego; $20-$35; 858-598-7620 or www.moxietheatre.com.

"Dracula: The Comedy" ---- Classic Youth Theatre presents a youth-cast production of Ted Tiller's comedy based on Bram Stoker's 19th-century horror novel; 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday; Innovative Body Science, 6350 Yarrow Road, Carlsbad; $12-$15, general; $5, children 10 and under; children 5 and under are free; 760-632-9447.

"Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas" ---- The Old Globe presents its 12th annual production of this Mel Marvin/Timothy Mason musical based on Dr. Seuss' holiday book about a miserly mountain creature who steals holiday trees and gifts from villagers in the valley below; previews Nov. 21-26; opens Nov. 27 and runs through Dec. 27; showtimes vary, but generally 7 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays; 11 a.m., 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 11 a.m., 2 and 5 p.m. Sundays; Old Globe Theatre, Balboa Park, San Diego; $39-$79, adults; $20-$59, children ages 3 to 17; 619-234-5623 or www.theoldglobe.org.

"Fame" ---- Scripps Performing Arts Academy presents a youth-cast production of this musical, based on the film about a group of talented students at a performing arts high school in New York City; 7 p.m. Nov. 14; 2 and 6 p.m. Nov. 15; 9920 Scripps Lake Drive, Suite 104, San Diego; $10; 858-586-7834 or superkidslive.com.

"The Foreigner" ---- Patio Playhouse presents Larry Shue's comedy about a shy Englishman who allows the guests at a Georgia lodge to believe he can't speak English to avoid conversation; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; through Nov. 15; Patio Playhouse, 201 E. Grand Ave., Suite 1D, Escondido; $14, general; $12, seniors and students with ID; $7, youths under 16; 760-746-6669.

"The Foreigner" ---- Moonlight Stage Productions opens its winter indoor season with Larry Shue's comedy about a shy Englishman who allows the guests at a Georgia lodge to believe he can't speak English to avoid conversation; opens Nov. 12 and runs through Nov. 29; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; Avo Playhouse, 303 Main St., Vista; $29, general, with discounts for seniors, students and military; 760-724-2110 or vistixonline.com.

"Fuddy Meers" ---- PowPAC, Poway's Community Theatre presents David Lindsay-Abaire's comedy about a woman whose memory wipes itself clean every night; 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday; PowPAC, 13250 Poway Road, Poway; $10, general; $6, children ages 6 to 12; 858-679-8085 or www.powpac.org.

"Godspell" ---- Lamb's Players Theatre presents Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak's folk-pop musical about Jesus' final days, based on the Gospel of Matthew; 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 4 and 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; extended through Nov. 22; Horton Grand Theatre, 444 Fourth Ave., San Diego; $26-$48; 619-437-0600 or lambsplayers.org.

"The Good, the Bad and the Udderly Ridiculous" ---- Mystery Cafe Dinner Theatre presents a fast-paced mystery-comedy about a series of murders that take place in the Old West; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; runs indefinitely; Imperial House Restaurant, 505 Kalmia St., San Diego; $59.50, price includes four-course dinner; 619-460-2200 or mysterycafe.net.

"Gotta Get There" ---- Big City Productions presents aspiring Broadway performers Armando Gutierrez and Brooke Cannons in this musical revue of rock and pop songs by the Beatles, Elton John, Sam Cooke, Elvis Presley, the Beach Boys and the sounds of Motown; 7:30 p.m. Mondays, Nov. 16-30; runs indefinitely; Welk Resorts Theatre, Welk Resorts San Diego, 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive, Escondido; $15; 760-749-3448 or welktheatresandiego.com.

"Hal Holbrook in Mark Twain Tonight" ----- The Tony Award-winning actor stars in the one-man show he's developed over the past 54 years; 8 p.m. Nov. 21; California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; 800-988-4253.

"Hansel and Gretel" ---- Lyric Opera San Diego presents Engelbert Humperdinck's opera for children based on the fairytale classic; opens Nov. 13 and runs through Nov. 22; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2:30 p.m. Sundays; Birch North Park Theatre, 2891 University Ave., San Diego; $32-$52; 619-239-8836 or lyricoperasandiego.org.

"Holiday Memories" ---- Scripps Ranch Theatre presents Russell Vandenbroucke's stage adaptation of Truman Capote's autobiographical holiday stories from his rural Depression-era childhood in small-town Alabama; opens Nov. 13 and runs through Dec. 12; showtimes, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; Scripps Ranch Theatre at Legler-Benbough Theatre, Alliant University, 10455 Pomerado Road, San Diego; $20, general; $18, students and active military; $10, children 12 and under; 858-578-7728.

"Honk" ---- Christian Youth Theatre presents this musical adaptation of the "Ugly Duckling" story; 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; Escondido Charter High School, 1868 E. Valley Parkway, Escondido; $12, general; $10, children ages 3 to 19; 619-588-0206 or cytsandiego.org.

"The House of Bernard Alba" ---- UC San Diego Theatre and Dance presents Chay Yew's stage adaptation of Federico Garcia Lorca's sexually charged novel about three sisters who hunger for the same man and their controlling mother; preview, 7 p.m. Nov. 19; regular shows, 8 p.m. Nov. 20, 21 and 28; 2 p.m. Nov. 21 and 28; 7 p.m. Nov. 29; Adele Shank Theatre, UC San Diego, La Jolla; $20, general; $15, seniors; $10, UCSD students with ID; 858-534-4574 or theatre.ucsd.edu/season.

"How Do You Spell Chanukkah" ---- North Coast Repertory Theatre presents this improvisational comedy where hosts Marc and Doug joke, make music, tell stories and have a little nosh while kibitzing over the story of Hanukkah; 8 p.m. Dec. 5; 7 p.m. Dec. 6 and 7; North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach; $17-$20; 858-481-1055 or northcoastrep.org.

"How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" ---- Arts Off Broadway presents a youth-cast production of this musical about a window cleaner who aspires to get to the top of the corporate food chain with a self-help book; 7:30 p.m. Nov. 20 and 21; 2:30 p.m. Nov. 21 and 22; California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $12.50-$17.50; 800-988-4253 or artcenter.org.

"I Do! I Do!" ---- The Old Globe presents a special engagement of the Tom Jones/Harvey Schmidt musical about a 50-year marriage starring married performers Patrick Page and Paige Davis, to inaugurate the Globe's new Sheryl & Harvey White Theatre; previews, 8 p.m. Dec. 11; 2 p.m. Dec. 12; opens Dec. 11 and runs through Dec. 20; regular showtimes, 7 p.m. Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; Sheryl & Harvey White Theatre, Old Globe complex, Balboa Park, San Diego; $39-$85; 619-234-5623 or www.theoldglobe.org.

"Into the Woods" ---- San Diego State University presents Stephen Sondheim's fractured fairytale musical about what happens to favorite storybook characters after their "happily ever after" ending; 8 p.m. Nov. 13, 14, 19, 20 and 21; 2 p.m. Nov. 15 and 22; Powell Theatre, SDSU, 5500 Campanile St., San Diego; $13-$15; 619-594-6884.

"It Had to Be You" ---- Broadway Theater presents Renee Taylor and Joseph Bologna's comic love story about a struggling actress and a flattering ad salesman who continually trick each other into falling in love; opens Nov. 12 and runs through Dec. 20; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; Broadway Theater, 340 E. Broadway, Vista; $16.50; 760-806-7905 or broadwayvista.com.

"It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play" ---- Cygnet Theatre presents its fourth annual production of Joe Landry's stage adaptation of the Frank Capra's holiday film about a suicidal man who discovers how important he is to his community and family with the help of an apprentice angel, re-set in a 1940s radio studio, complete with sound effects and live music; opens Nov. 27 and runs through Dec. 27; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 and 7 p.m. Sundays; Cygnet Theatre, Old Town San Diego, Juan and Twiggs streets, San Diego; $23-$40; 619-337-1525 or www.cygnettheatre.com.

"Joey and Maria's Comedy Italian Wedding" ---- Dillstar Productions presents the revival of its long-running interactive dinner theater comedy where audience members are the guests at the nutty nuptials of the Gnocchi and Cavatelli families; 7:30 p.m. Saturdays; through December; Culy Warehouse, 633 Seventh Ave., San Diego; $68.50 (includes Italian dinner and show); valet parking is $10; 800-944-5639 or comedywedding.com.

Jonathan McMurtry's Shakespeare ---- Moonlight Cultural Foundation presents an evening with the Vista-based actor, who has appeared in more than 200 productions at the Old Globe and has taught Shakespeare for the Globe's masters program for many years; 7:30 p.m. Nov. 16; forum will follow performance; Avo Playhouse, 303 Main St., Vista; free; 760-630-7650.

"Joyful Noise" ---- Lamb's Players Theatre presents Tim Slover's historical backstage drama about the colorful story behind the composition of Handel's famed "Messiah" oratorio; 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays; 4 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; through Nov. 22; Lamb's Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado; $22-$56; 619-437-0600 or lambsplayers.org.

Lamb's Players Festival of Christmas ---- Lamb's Players Theatre's annual holiday musical offering is a world premiere by Kerry Meads set in a recording studio in the 1970s; opens Dec. 1 and runs through Dec. 27; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 4 p.m. Saturdays; 2 and 6 p.m. Sundays; Lamb's Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado; $27-$58; 619-437-0600 or lambsplayers.org.

"Last Sunday Cabaret" ---- Classic standards, jazz, Gospel and Broadway tunes, performed at 7 p.m. on the last Sunday of each month; Lamb's Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado; $15-$45; 619-437-6050 or www.lambsplayers.org.

"Let a Hundred Flowers Bloom" ---- Diversionary Theatre presents a reading of Igor Goldin's comedy about an HIV-positive gay man in 1996 New York trying to construct a future after a decade of expecting to die; 7:30 p.m. Nov. 17; Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd., San Diego; call for ticket information; 619-220-0097.

"Little Women" ---- Center Stage Productions presents a youth-cast production of this stage play based on the classic novel by Louisa May Alcott; 7:30 p.m. Nov. 13 and 14; 2 p.m. Nov. 14 and 15; California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $17; 800-988-4253 or artcenter.org.

Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theatre ---- Weaver's Tales presents "The Shoemaker and the Elves" through Sunday; Puppet Express presents "City Mouse/Country Mouse" and "The Monkey and the Crocodile," Nov. 11-15 and 18-22; Big Joe Productions presents "Santa and the Ho Ho Thief" Nov. 25, 27-29 and Dec. 2-3; showtimes, 10 and 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays-Fridays; 11 a.m., 1 and 2:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theater, Balboa Park, San Diego; $5, adults; $4, seniors; $3, children 12 and under; 619-544-9203 or balboaparkpuppets.com.

"Moonlight Magic" ---- Magical duo Garry Carson & Kelsey will perform a fund-raising show of illusions to benefit the Assistance League; 7:30 p.m. Friday; California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $25; 800-988-4253 or artcenter.org.

"The Most Wonderful Time of the Year" ---- The city of San Marcos Civic Center Theatre and the Broadway Theatre present this holiday musical featuring adult performers; 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5; 2 p.m. Dec. 6; Hearth Theatre, San Marcos Community Center, 3 Civic Center Drive, San Marcos; $8 in advance; $10 at door; 760-744-9000.

"My Fatal Valentine" ---- Newly formed Curtain Call Productions will present Eileen Moushey's comedy murder-mystery set at a romance writers convention on Thursday and on the third Thursday of each month; Hukilau Restaurant, Fallbrook Golf Course, Fallbrook; $35; 760-723-2724 or e-mail curtaincallcompany@yahoo.com.

"The New Century" --- Diversionary Theatre presents the West Coast premiere of Paul Rudnicks' "big gay comedy," a quartet of short plays about a Jewish matron, a flamboyant aging homosexual and Midwestern craftswoman, who all come together in the finale; previews, Dec. 3 and 4; opens Dec. 5 and runs through Jan. 2; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 and 7 p.m. Sundays; plus additional performances on holiday weekends; Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd., San Diego; $33, general; $29, military, seniors and students; 619-220-0097 or diversionary.org.

"Night Music" ---- Patio Playhouse presents a program of Broadway show tunes and classic pop songs; 2 p.m. Nov. 14; Turrentine Room, Escondido Public Library, 239 S. Kalmia St., Escondido; free; 760-738-1472.

"1940s Radio Hour" ---- MiraCosta College presents Walton Jones and Carol Lees' musical comedy that features a live radio broadcast to troops overseas during World War II; preview, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 12; regular shows, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 13 -14 and 19-21; 2 p.m. Nov. 15, 21 and 22; MiraCosta College Theatre, 1 Barnard Drive, Oceanside; $12, general; $10, seniors; $8, students and preview performance; 760-795-6815.

"Oliver!" ---- San Diego Junior Theatre presents a youth-cast production of Lionel Bart's musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' "Oliver Twist"; 7 p.m. Friday; 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; Casa del Prado Theater, Balboa Park, San Diego; 619-239-8355.

"Picasso at the Lapin Agile" ---- New Village Arts Theatre presents Steve Martin's brisk and witty comedy that imagines a meeting between Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso at a turn-of-the-century Parisian cafe; opens Nov. 12 and runs through Dec. 6; showtimes, 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 3 p.m. Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; 2787 State St., Carlsbad; $25-$30; 760-433-3245 or newvillagearts.org.

"Plays in the Park" ---- Carlsbad's newly formed Peoples Theatre will debut with a staged reading of this 90-minute play by a local playwright; 7:30 p.m. Nov. 15; Carlsbad Performing Arts Academy, 6106 Avenida Encinas, Suite F, Carlsbad.

The Playwrights Project Presents: "Writers in the Next Stage" ---- The California Center for the Arts, Escondido, presents a program of plays written by young San Diego playwrights, including 13-year-old Ben Kelly's "Idaho Lament" and 16-year-old Laignee Barron's "If I Were Your Superhero"; 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. Nov. 17; California center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $2; 800-988-4253 or www.artcenter.org.

"Prism, Prose and Passion" ---- Write Out Loud hosts a program of readings from the gay community by authors including Christopher Isherwood, Jackie Kay, Rita May Brown and Robert J. Hughes, read by local actors; 2 p.m. Sunday; Diversioanry Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd., San Diego; $12; 619-297-8953.

"Ruthless! The Musical" ---- Broadway Theater presents Marvin Laird and Joe Paley's campy musical comedy about a ruthlessly ambitious teen starlet who will do anything, including murder, to land the lead role in her high school production of "Pippi Longstocking"; 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; Broadway Theater, 340 E. Broadway, Vista; $16.50; 760-806-7905 or broadwayvista.com.

"Sammy" ---- The Old Globe presents Broadway veteran Obba Babatunde ("Dreamgirls," "Jelly's Last Jam") starring in the world premiere of Leslie Bricusse's new musical based on the life of entertainer Sammy Davis Jr.; 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; 7 p.m. Sunday; Old Globe Theatre, Balboa Park, San Diego; $54-$89; 619-234-5623 or oldglobe.org.

"The Santaland Diaries" ---- New Village Arts Theatre presents David Sedaris' wickedly funny solo play based on his own miserable experiences one year as a Macy's store Christmas elf; 8 p.m. Dec. 10-12, 17-20 and 22-23; 3 p.m. Dec. 12 and 19; 2 p.m. Dec. 13 and 20; 2787 State St., Carlsbad; $20; 760-433-3245 or newvillagearts.org.

"Saturn Returns" ---- South Coast Repertory presents the West Coast premiere of Noah Haidle's drama about an 88-year-old widower whose home is haunted by the echoes of the women he loved in the past; 7:30 p.m. Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; through Nov. 22; Segerstrom Stage, South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa; $23-$70; 714-708-5555 or www.scr.org.

"Sayings of Poof" ---- Community Actors Theatre presents this award-winning drama about situations involving women of all races, cultures, class and ages; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays; through Nov. 15; Community Actors Theatre, 2957 54th St., San Diego; $12-$14; 619-264-3391 or www.communityactorstheatre.com.

"Scrooge: The Musical" ---- CAST Productions presents its annual Christmas musical based on the story of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol"; opens Dec. 4 and runs through Dec. 20; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays (no performance Dec. 5); Mission Theater, 231 N. Main St., Fallbrook; $10, general; $8, seniors and juniors; 760-731-2278.

"The Seafarer" ---- San Diego Repertory Theatre presents Conor McPherson's holiday comedy-drama about a group of Irishmen (played by Ron Choularton, Jeffrey Meek, Sam Woodhouse and "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" star Armin Shimerman) who get drunk on Christmas Eve and encounter Beelzebub; opens Nov. 14 and runs through Dec. 13; showtimes, 8 Thursdays-Saturdays; 7 p.m. Sundays and Wednesdays; Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, San Diego; $29-$47, general; $18, students; 544-1000 or www.sdrep.org.

"Shakespeare Goes to the Opera" ---- San Diego Shakespeare Society presents its third-annual program, this year dedicated to the more than 200 operas based on the plays of William Shakespeare; San Diego Opera resident conductor Karen Keltner hosts the program, featuring local opera singers and accompanist Johnmark Harris performing arias from operas by Verdi, Gounod, Quilter, Vaughan-Williams and more; 7:30 p.m. Monday; Neurosciences Institute, 19640 John Jay Hopkins Drive, La Jolla; $20, general; $10, students, seniors, teachers and military; sandiegoshakespearesociety.org.

"Side Show: The Musical" ---- Harts Performance Inc. presents Poway-based identical twins Shauna Hart Ostrom and Shelly Hart Breneman in Henry Krieger and Bill Russel's musical based on the true story of conjoined twins Daisy and Violet, who were a circus side show attraction in the 1930s; 7 p.m. Nov. 14, 18, 20, 21, 25-28; 2 p.m. Nov. 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29; Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, San Diego; $35; 619-944-7574 or www.hartsperformanceinc.com.

"Sister's Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold" ---- North Coast Repertory Theatre presents its annual production of this Catholic-themed comedy where the stern nun Sister leads an audience-interactive adult Catechism class on the Christmas story; 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14-16; North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach; $25-$30; 858-481-1055 or northcoastrep.org.

"Talley's Folly" ---- North Coast Repertory Theatre has extended its production of Lanford Wilson's Pulitzer Prize-winning drama about a man and woman trying to come to terms with their long-overdue relationship in 1944 Missouri; 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and Nov. 11 through 14; 2 and 7 p.m. Sunday; North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach; $44-$50; 858-481-1055 or northcoastrep.org.

"Taming of the Shrew: Shakespeare, Rattle and Roll" ---- El Camino High School presents a 1950s rock 'n' roll version of William Shakespeare's comic battle of the sexes that begins with an ultimatum: the lovely Bianca will not be wed until her shrewish elder sister Katherine is married off first, so a wily fortune-hunter arrives to woo Kate; 7 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Nov. 12 and 14; 2 p.m. Nov. 15; El Camino High School, 400 Rancho del Oro Drive, Oceanside; $7, general; $5, seniors and students; 760-757-8550, ext. 3902.

The Ten Tenors ----- The Australian pop/opera/performance troupe features 10 male singers from Down Under performing everything from arias to Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody"; 7 p.m. Dec. 8 and 9; 7:30 p.m. Dec. 10; 8 p.m. Dec. 11; 2 and 8 p.m. Dec. 12; 1 and 6 p.m. Dec. 13; San Diego Civic Theatre, Third Avenue at B Street, San Diego; $15-$72; 619-570-1100.

"Topdog/Underdog" ---- UC San Diego Theatre and Dance presents Suzan-Lori Parks' 2002 Pulitzer Prize-winning drama about the lives of two black American brothers, Lincoln and Booth, coping with women, work, poverty, gambling, racism and their troubled upbringing; preview, 7 p.m. Monday; regular shows, 8 p.m. Tuesday through Nov. 14; 2 p.m. Nov. 14; Arthur Wagner Theatre, UC San Diego, La Jolla; $20, general; $15, seniors; $10, UCSD students with ID; for mature audiences; 858-534-4574 or theatre.ucsd.edu/season.

"Traditions of Christmas" ---- Christian Community Theatre presents its annual holiday spectacular featuring holiday carols, Rockette-style dancers, Santa Claus and his workshop elves and a live Nativity; 7 p.m. Dec. 10-12, 17-19 and 21-22; 2 p.m. Dec. 12-13, 19-23; 6 p.m. Dec. 13 and 20; East County Performing Arts Center, 210 E. Main St., El Cajon; $26-$38, general; $24-$35, seniors and military; $18, children; 800-696-1929 or cyt.org.

"Tragedy of the Commons" ---- Cygnet Theatre presents the San Diego premiere of a staged reading of Stephen Metcalfe's play about a West Coast couple forced to face the ugly truth in their disconnected relationship when a neighbor threatens the sanctity of their home; Metcalfe directs the production and will host a post-show "meet and greet"; 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7; Cygnet's Old Town Theatre, Juan and Twiggs streets, San Diego; $10; 619-337-1525.

"The Two Gentlemen of Verona" ---- The Old Globe/University of San Diego Graduate Theatre Program presents William Shakespeare's comedy about jealousy and the fickle nature of love; 8 p.m. Nov. 14, 19, 20 and 21; 2 p.m. Nov. 15, 21 and 22; 7 p.m. Nov. 15, 17, 18 and 22; Old Globe Theatre, 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego; $19; 619-231-5623 or www.globemfa.org.

"Window Pains" ---- Big City Productions presents veteran North County and Broadway stars Eric Kunze and Gina De Luca in this musical reflection on the ups and downs of love and life, featuring songs from "Sunday in the Park With George," "In the Heights," "Spring Awakening," "Rent," "Little Women" and "The Wedding Singer"; 7:30 p.m. Nov. 20 and 27, Dec. 4 and 11; Welk Resorts Theatre, Welk Resorts San Diego, 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive, Escondido; $35; 760-749-3448 or welktheatresandiego.com.

"You Better Watch Out" ---- PowPAC, Poway's Community Theatre presents Dan Hodgins' heartwarming holiday comedy about a snowed-in lodge, three weary travelers who seek lodging for the night and a mysterious stranger who just might be Father Christmas himself; opens Dec. 4 and runs through Dec. 13; showtimes, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; PowPAC, 13250 Poway Road, Poway; $10, general; $6, children ages 6 to 12; 858-679-8085 or www.powpac.org.

AUDITIONS

Editor's note: Many events require that sheet music, cued CDs, resumes or head shots be brought to the audition. It's suggested those interested in auditioning call for specific information.

"The Secret Garden" ---- Patio Playhouse will hold auditions for the musical adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic novel; auditions, 7 p.m. Monday and Tuesday; Patio Playhouse, 201 E. Grand Ave., Escondido; 760-746-6669.

New Village Arts Master Class Series ---- A series of five four-hour master classes for actors will be offered at New Village Arts Theatre in Carlsbad; classes will be offered from 6 to 10 p.m. Sundays; a seminar on Sanford Meisner acting techniques taught by Lisa Berger is on Sunday; and a film/TV workshop with L.A. actor Christopher Connor is on Nov. 15; New Village Arts, 2787 State St., Carlsbad; classes are $65 each or $300 for all five; 760-433-3245.

"Over the River and Through the Woods" ---- Scripps Ranch Theatre will hold auditions for the Joe DiPietro comedy; auditions by appointment Nov. 16 and 17; Scripps Ranch Theatre at Legler-Benbough Theatre, Alliant University, 10455 Pomerado Road, San Diego; show runs March 26-April 24; 858-578-7728.

"Annie, Jr." ---- CRB Productions is seeking a 17- to 18-year-old male to play the role of Daddy Warbucks in its fall production, which will open Nov. 19; Church at Rancho Bernardo, 11740 Bernardo Plaza Court, San Diego; for an audition, call Jayne Howard at 858-592-2434, ext. 323.

"The Nutcracker" ---- Performing Arts Workshop in Encinitas is now enrolling students for its annual "Nutcracker" ballet production. Professional costumes are supplied for the full-length ballet. Class enrollment is required; 760-753-2671.

CLASSES/WORKSHOPS/CAMPS

Theater movement workshop ---- San Diego mime and theater coach Jerry Hager will offer a class on theater and expressive body movement, which will include the screening of a Charlie Chaplin film as an extra feature; noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 5; Sunshine Brooks Theater, 217 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside; 760-529-9140.

Kids Act! Youth Theater Workshop ---- Six- and 10-week workshops in self-expression, role-playing and acting are being presented for ages 4 to 11 operated by Aleta Barthell, a member of the Screen Actors Guild, Television and Radio Artists Guild and Writers Guild of America; New Village Arts Theatre, 2787B State St., Carlsbad; Barthell also teaches classes for youths ages 4 to 17 at Encinitas Community Center, 1140 Oakcrest Park Drive, Encinitas; 760-635-3340 or aletabarthell.com.

Encinitas School of Music Flute Choir ---- The Encinitas School of Music is seeking flutists of all ages for its flute choir program. Musicians should have played for at least one year. The year-round program includes clinics, field trips and concerts. The group meets at 7 p.m. Mondays. There is a $40 monthly fee; 775 Orpheus Ave., Encinitas; call Ron Ebel at 760-757-3096.

Encinitas School of Music Big Band ---- Students who have played saxophone, trombone, piano, bass, guitar and drums for at least two years are invited to join this Encinitas-based all-ages ensemble; call Jack Hill at 760-612-5299 or visit ww.esom.org.

Positive Action Community Theater free acting classes ---- New Encinitas theater group offers free acting classes for preschool, elementary and teen/adults, from 4:15-6:15 p.m. Saturdays; Dance North County, 535 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas; free; 760-436-4869.

Christian Youth Theatre's Theater for Kids ---- Drama classes for ages 4 to 18 will be presented by CYT in seven locations countywide. Class enrollment allows youth to audition for CYT musicals; 800-696-1929.

Premiere for Kids youth acting classes ---- Premiere for Kids Youth Theatre, run by Randall Hickman and Douglas Davis, presents ongoing acting classes for youth actors ages 8 to 17; Broadway Theater, 340B E. Broadway, Vista; www.premiereforkids.com.

New Village Arts acting classes ---- Ongoing acting program features techniques taught at the Actors Studio Drama School, including relaxation and sensory exercises as well as scene study; 6 to 9 p.m. Mondays or 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays in Carlsbad; call for fees; 760-439-3784 or www.newvillagearts.org.

Triple Threat Academy ---- This Temecula theater school, founded by Paul Kehler and Joseph J. Arreola, offers classes in acting, musical theater, vocal training, music theory, dance, stage management, stagecraft and more; 27574 Commerce Center Drive #137, Temecula; 951-693-1017.

Center Stage Senior Theater ---- New nonprofit North County performing arts group for seniors is auditioning for members to entertain for special occasions and organizations; seniors who can dance, sing, do comedy or have other specialty talents are invited to contact co-founders Lynnell Nelson and Margaret Olson, who are longtime dance teachers and experienced performers; 760-941-9211 or 760-754-4866.

Teen film/TV acting workshops ---- Acting coach Al Valletta offers a 12-week acting workshop for actors ages 10 to 17 who want to pursue a career in film and television. Ongoing classes meet from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays at the Star Theatre in Oceanside, and from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Thursdays at the Rising Stars Studio in Solana Beach. A separate class for older teens meets from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursdays in Solana Beach. Cost is $275 for 12 weeks; 760-941-3208.

Actors Workshop Studios ---- San Diego acting and auditions workshop for film and TV; on-camera training, audition techniques, industry knowledge; weekly in-house auditions with producers, casting directors, agents; www.actorsworkshopstudios.com.

Christian Youth Theatre acting classes ---- CYT holds 10-week acting classes for children ages 6 to 18; activities include education in acting, singing, dancing and general theater skills; classes beginning in Rancho Bernardo, Solana Beach and Carlsbad; the two-hour classes are held weekly on Tuesdays; call for prices; 800-588-0206.

Choirs/orchestras:

Civic Youth Orchestra ---- The nonprofit training program for young musicians has a new conductor, Greg Lawrence, and a new rehearsal location at the San Marcos Senior Center, 111 Richmar Ave., San Marcos. Lawrence will instruct the Chamber Strings and Intermediate Strings Orchestra. For information, call 760-728-1977.

Encinitas Youth Show Choir ---- The choir for children ages 6 and up, and all ability levels, is accepting registration through Sept. 30 for its fall semester; rehearsals are 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays; Dance Connection, 625 Encinitas Blvd., Suite A, Encinitas; contact Katherine Pupping at 760-717-9249 or katepupping@roadrunner.com, or visit encinitasyouthshowchoir.com.

Encinitas School of Music Flute Choir ---- Flutists who've played for at least one year are invited to join instructor Ron Ebel's program, which includes clinics, field trips and concerts year-round; the choir practices at 7 p.m. Mondays at 775 Orpheus Ave., Encinitas; call Ebel at 760-757-3095.

Music Men chorale and a cappella chorus ---- The Palomar Pacific Music Men barbershop harmony chorus is seeking new members for its choir and a cappella ensemble; no audition required; all male voice types welcome; group meets at 7 p.m. Tuesdays; Salvation Army facility, 1301 Las Villas Way, Escondido; 760-839-6518.

The Music Men Barbershop Chorus ---- The choir is seeking male singers for its holiday shows Nov. 28-Dec. 15; auditions will be held at the group's rehearsals, 7 p.m. Tuesdays; San Marcos Senior Center, 111 Richmar Ave., San Marcos; 760-839-6518.

Pacific Coast Harmony ---- This men's barbershop chorus is seeking talented singers who can sing a cappella and in harmony; 619-427-6669.

Pacific Women's Chorus ---- Singers are needed for the 2009-10 season; choir rehearses on Wednesday evenings in Solana Beach; for an audition, email director@pacificwomenschorus.org or call 760-846-6184.

Poway Community Symphony Orchestra ---- This community orchestra for ages 18 and up, led this year by University of San Diego and Grossmont College professor Branden Muresan, is seeking new musicians; no audition necessary; rehearsals are held from 7 to 9 p.m. Mondays at Room 501, Bernardo Heights Middle School, 129909 Paseo Lucido, Rancho Bernardo; 858-748-5131, ext. 2613.

Rancho Penasquitos Flute Choir ---- New members are sought for the group's Wednesday evening sessions; all levels of adult flute players are welcome to the choir, led by local musician and recording artist Bradley Leighton; 858-484-8609 or visit www.fluteguy.com.

RB Chorale ---- The choir led by Pat Bean is seeking members for its annual holiday shows; rehearsals are at 7 p.m. Tuesdays; Westwood Elementary Schoo, 17449 Matinal Road, SanDiego; 858-485-7664 or rbchorale.org.

San Diego A Cappella Chorus ---- The choir will hold auditions for girls ages 11 to 17 in all vocal ranges for its upcoming season; the choir rehearses every Tuesday in Rancho Bernardo; call for audition appointment, 858-717-0262.

San Diego Chorus ---- The 100-member women's a cappella chorus is seeking singers in all voice parts; choir rehearses from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesdays in Balboa Park; call 619-685-3385.

San Diego Master Chorale ---- Experienced singers are invited to audition by sitting in on the rehearsals from 7 to 9 p.m. Mondays at First United Methodist Church, 2111 Camino del Rio South, San Diego; audition appointments at 858-581-2203.

San Diego North Coast Singers ---- The 125-voice youth choral group is auditioning boys and girls, grades two to 12, for its four ensembles on June 13; auditions by appointment; rehearsals on Tuesdays in Encinitas; call Miel Burnett at 760-944-1866 or visit www.northcoastsingers.com.

San Diego Youth Philharmonic Orchestra ---- The advanced ensemble is holding auditions for strings, winds, brass and percussion students up to age 25; rehearsals are from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays at Mt. Carmel High School in Rancho Penasquitos; for an audition appointment, call 858-673-0217.

San Diego Youth Symphony and Symphonic Orchestra ---- Musicians ages 7 to 25 are invited to audition for positions in the orchestra; artistic director Jeff Edmons directs both the Youth Symphony and more advanced Symphonic Orchestra; ensembles rehearse on weekends from September through June; 619-233-3232.

Southern California Sinfonietta ---- San Diego-based training orchestra for musicians ages 7 to 13 (feeder orchestra for Southern California Youth Symphony) is auditioning players of all instruments; auditions by appointment; rehearsals, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sundays; California Institute of Music, 3346 Industrial Court, San Diego; e-mail office@fairbanksartscenter.com or 858-259-5508.

Southern California Youth Symphony ---- San Diego-based youth orchestra conducted by Grammy-winning horn player and conductor Warren Gref is auditioning players of all instruments; auditions by appointment; rehearsals, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sundays; California Institute of Music, 3346 Industrial Court, San Diego; e-mail office@fairbanksartscenter.com or 858-259-5508.

Southwest Women's Chorus ---- The Temecula-based community women's choir is seeking new singers; beginners welcome; music-reading ability desirable but not required; Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St., Temecula; for reservation appointment, call 951-926-4100.

Symphonic orchestra ---- The Civic Youth Orchestra is forming a new youth symphony (with strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion) to provide a symphonic experience for music students not yet at the CYO level; rehearsals are from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturdays at Palomar College; for audition information, visit www.sandiegocyo.org or call Rebecca Washburn, 858-484-9635.

Valley Center-Pauma Community Orchestra ---- Adult and youth string and woodwind players are needed for this chamber ensemble, which will perform works by Bach, Handel, Mozart, Faure and John Williams; meetings are 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursdays at Valley Center Upper Elementary School; $70 sign-up fee; 760-749-4218.

Village Presbyterian Church Junior Choir ---- Children in grades one to six are invited to audition for the program for its choir festivals and musicals; rehearsals, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Sundays; 6225 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe; 760-739-0706.