|
holiday
Holiday listings are compiled by Sarah Han and Lydia Brawner. Listings for Wed/7-Tues/13 below; check back each week for updated events. For information on how to submit a listing, see 8 Days a Week. attractions 'Christmas at Sea' San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, Hyde Street Pier; 447-5000. Sat/10, 3pm. $5, children free, reservations required. Enjoy tasty refreshments and performances by the Living History Players aboard historic vessels at the Hyde Street Pier. Santa Claus makes a visit by boat! 'Great Dickens Christmas Fair and Victorian Holiday Party' Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva; 897-4555, www.dickensfair.com. Sat-Sun, 11am-7pm. Through Dec 18. $8-20. Step into a day in the life of Victorian London at this annual fair, featuring costumed characters from literature and history, street vendors, games, and adults-only "after dark" festivities. Holiday photo booth event Pier 39, Fisherman's Wharf, Center Stage, Beach and the Embarcadero; www.whitestrips.com. Thurs/8-Sun/11, noon-6pm. Free. Step into the photo booth and take away a photographic memento to remember this year's holiday; a cappella group Musaic performs at noon on Thurs/8. 'Light Insight: Holidays at the Exploratorium' Exploratorium, 3601 Lyon; EXP-LORE. Sat/10, 10:30am-12:30pm; Sun/11, 10:30am; Dec 17, 11am-5pm; Dec 18, 10am-5pm; Dec 24, noon; Dec 26-31, noon-2pm. $8-13 (half-priced admission Dec 17-18). The science museum presents a series of events that explore the wonders of light, including workshops on bioluminescence, light-based toys, and interactive light sculptures, and a holiday film program. 'Reindeer Romp' San Francisco Zoo, 1 Zoo Rd, Sloat Blvd at 47th Ave; 753-7080, www.sfzoo.org. Daily, 10am-5pm. Through Jan 1. Free with paid zoo admission ($4.50-11). Bring the little ones to see what Santa's hooved helpers really look like at this special exhibit featuring four antlered reindeer. 'San Francisco SPCA Holiday Windows Express' Macy's, Stockton at O'Farrell; 522-3500, www.sfspca.org. During store hours, through Dec 26. Free. The SPCA presents an adorable display of cats and dogs; all featured pets are available for adoption. Bay Area 'The Christmas Revels' Scottish Rite Center, 1547 Lakeside Dr, Oak; (415) 773-1181, www.calrevels.org, Fri, 7:30pm; Sat-Sun, 1-5pm. Through Dec 18. $15-42. Celebrate the Yuletide in grand Scottish medieval style with wassailing, morris dancing, singing, dancing, and a dragon. 'Holidays at Dunsmuir' Dunsmuir Historic Estate, 2960 Peralta Oaks Ct, Oakl; (925) 275-9490, www.dunsmuir.org. Daily, 11am-5pm. Through Dec 18. $7-11. The mansion presents self-guided tours of its historic grounds, holiday teas, horse drawn carriage rides, and more. 'Holidays on Solano' Solano Ave, Berk and Albany; www.solanoave.org. Sat, 10am-2pm. Through Dec 24. Free. Celebrate the holidays at this annual neighborhood event where you can shop in area stores while enjoying live entertainment. A tree-lighting celebration, an appearance by Santa Claus, and community caroling takes place Fri/9, 6-8pm; Skinny Santa Claus drops by every Saturday through Dec 17 from 10am-2pm. Knight Ridder's Downtown Ice Circle of Palms, South Market St across from Plaza de Cesar Chavez, San Jose; (408) 279-1775, ext 45, www.sjdowntown.com. Dec 7-15, Jan 3-15: Mon-Thurs, 6-10pm; Fri, 5pm-midnight; Sat, noon-midnight; Sun, noon-10pm. Dec 16-Jan 1: noon-midnight. $12-14. A glide around this outdoor skating rink is a perfect way to ring in the holidays; price includes skate rentals. benefits 'A Canine 'Howliday' Soiree' Ritz-Carlton, 600 Stockton; 773-6198. Thurs/8, 5:30-8:30pm. $25 per dog, $55 per human. Pets Unlimited benefits from this canine-friendly holiday social featuring champagne, hors d'oeuvres, gifts for your pooch, and photo opportunities with Santa Claus. 'Holiday Beat Bash' The Beat, Eddie Brown Center for the Arts, 2560 Ninth St, Berk; (510) 548-5348, www.the-beat.org. Sun/11, 4-7pm. $10. Celebrate the holidays with this party featuring live music, dance performances, food and drink, a silent auction, and a tap jam; proceeds benefit community outreach project the Beat Goes On. KPFA crafts and music fair Concourse Exhibition Center, 635 Eighth St; (510) 848-6767, ext 611, www.kpfa.org/craftsfair. Sat/10-Sun/11, 10am-6pm. $5-8, children under 12 free. Celebrate the 35th year of the area's largest juried music and craft fair, featuring live music and crafts by more than 220 artists; proceeds go to support KPFA. 'Teddy Bear Tea' Ritz-Carlton, 600 Stockton; 773-6198. Daily, 10-11:30am and 1-2:30pm. Through Dec 24. $58. Binky the Elf and the Ritz-Carlton Teddy Bear make appearances for this tea time event; proceeds benefit the Greater Bay Area Make-A-Wish Foundation. celebrations 'Business After Hours Holiday Gala' Julia Morgan Ballroom, Merchants Exchange Club, 465 California, 15th fl; www.sfchamber.com. Tues/13, 5:30-8pm. $20-30. The San Francisco Chamber of Commerce celebrates the holidays with this holiday networking party. 'Golden Gate Bridge Holiday Open House' Southeast parking lot/visitor area, Golden Gate Bridge; www.goldengate.org. Wed/7, 7am-1pm. Free. Join Golden Gate bridge employees for this holiday event featuring caroling, free coffee and cookies, appearances by Santa Claus and 98.1 KISS FM's Renel and the Groove Crew, and more. Holiday celebration and film screening Varnish Gallery, 77 Natoma; www.independentamerica.net. Wed/7, 7-9:30pm. Call for price. Enjoy a glass of wine at the bar while socializing and watching a screening of the documentary Independent America. Kearny Street Workshop holiday party and art auction 180 Capp; 503-0520, www.kearnystreet.org. Fri/9, 7-10pm. $5-20 donation, no one turned away for lack of funds. Kearny Street Workshop celebrates its 33rd anniversary at this holiday affair featuring visual art by Asian Pacific Islander artists and live music by the Invisible Cities, Anamude, and the Q String Quartet. Lusty Lady holiday party StudioZ, 314 11th St; 252-7666. Sat/10, 9pm. Call for price. The hot strippers of Lusty Lady heat up your holidays at this annual event featuring rockin' music, a burlesque performance, and hot bods. Lucky Rake 'Tori-no-ichi' Festival Noh Space, 2840 Mariposa; 621-7978, www.theatreofyugen.org. Sun/11, 2-5pm. $5, kids free. Rake in good luck for the new year at this traditional Japanese festival featuring a make-your-own rake center, food and drink, Kyogen comedy and Noh dance performances, a silent auction, and more. Bay Area Albany Chamber holiday party Albany Mechanics Bank, 801 San Pablo, Albany; (510) 525-1771, albanychamber@bigplanet.com. Wed/7, 5:30-7:30pm. Free. Dress in your best for Albany Chamber of Commerce's annual party featuring a silent auction, tasty vittles, and more. Holiday open house Marin History Museum, Boyd Gate House, 1125 B St, San Rafael; (415) 454-8538, www.marinhistory.org. Thurs/8, 4-7pm. Free. Take a tour of the newly revamped historic museum while sipping on wine and snacking on hors d'oeuvres. Small Press Distribution holiday open house and book sale Small Press Distribution, 1341 Seventh St, Berk; (510) 524-1668. Sat/10, noon-4pm. Free. Authors Mark McMorris, Eileen Tabios, Stephanie Young, Scott Inguito, and David Buuck read and perform at Small Press Distribution's open house party; also make sure to check out the books for sale at 20 to 50 percent off their cover prices. kwanzaa 'Kwanzaa Gift Show' Oakland Marriott Convention Center, 10th St and Broadway, Oakl; www.kwanzaagiftshow.com. Sat/10-Sun/11, 10am-8pm. $6. Find the perfect Afrocentric gifts and accessories at this art and craft event while enjoying performances by spoken word artists and praise dancers, a gospel service, African foods, and a fashion show; Phyllis Yvonne Stickney MCs the event. music 'Alice in Wonderland 2005' Nob Hill Masonic Center, 1111 California; 478-2277, www.radioalice.com. Wed/7, 7:30pm. $23-48. Alanis Morissette, Switchfoot, and Eoin Harrington perform at this holiday rock concert hosted by Alice @ 97.3. Blind Boys of Alabama, Fairfield Four Nob Hill Masonic Center, 1111 California; 776-1999, www.sfjazz.org. Sat/10, 8pm. $25-62. See 8 Days a Week. 'A Brass and Organ Christmas' Grace Cathedral, 1100 California; 749-6350, www.gracecathedral.org, Mon/12, 7pm. $15-40. This concert features a program of Christmas music performed by the Bay Brass and Benjamin Bachman. Candlelight concert Old First Church, 1751 Sacramento; 474-1608. Sun/11, 3pm. $12-15. The Piedmont Children's Chorus performs under the direction of Robert Geary. 'Carols and Drums of Peace' St. John's Presbyterian Church, 25 Lake; (707) 224-4222. Sat/10, 8pm. $40. Cave music presents this international drum concert. 'A Cathedral Christmas: The Grace Cathedral Choir of Men and Boys with Orchestra' Grace Cathedral, 1100 California; 1-866-468-3399, www.ticketweb.com. Sat-Sun, 3pm (also Dec 19, 7pm). Through Dec 19. $15-50. The annual concert presents a selection of Christmas music from the world-renowned choir. 'A Chanticleer Christmas' St. Igantius Church, 650 Parker; 392-4400, www.chanticleer.org. Sun/11 and Dec 17, 8pm. $25-42 (Also Mon/12, First Congregational Church, 2345 Channing Way, Berk; same phone number, Web site, and price.) The world-renowned all-male choral ensemble presents this holiday-themed program featuring carols, sacred works, and spirituals. 'The Dead Hensons Holiday Spectacular' 12 Galaxies, 2565 Mission; 970-9777. Sat/10, 4pm, $5-10. Bring the kids to this holiday show featuring the local rock eight-piece band performing songs from early Jim Henson projects. Holiday guitar concert Old First Church, 1751 Sacramento; 474-1608. Fri/9, 8pm. $15. San Francisco Guitar Ensemble plays a program of ensemble and solo works by Vivaldi, Tchaikovsky, Roncalli, Sanz, and Bach; Lawrence Ferrara directs. 'Jingle Bell Rock' Cowell Theatre, Fort Mason Center, Marina at Laguna; 345-7575. Sun/11, 1 and 4pm. $12-18, babes in arms free. See 8 Days a Week. 'Joy! Songs for the Season' St. Matthew's Lutheran Church, 3281 16th St; 668-GGMC, www.ggmc.org. Fri/9 and Tues/13, 8pm. $20. The San Francisco men's chorus perform songs that celebrate the "spirit of life;" Joseph Jennings directs this holiday concert. 'Not So Silent Night' Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, 99 Grove; www.billgrahamcivic.com. Fri/9, 6:30pm. $35-65. Live 105's holiday festival features the White Stripes, Death Cab for Cutie, Hot Hot Heat, Coheed and Cambria, Autolux, and Princess Superstar. 'Rock n' Soul X-Mas Party' Parkside, 1600 17th St; 503-0393. Sat/10, 9pm. $8. The Go Going Gone Girls, Golden Gods, and others perform at this rockin' Christmas party. St. Mary's Cathedral Choir St. Mary's Cathedral, 1111 Gough; 567-2020, ext 213. Wed/7, 7:30pm. $10-15. (Also Sun/11, 3pm, St. Raphael's Church, 1104 Fifth Ave, San Rafael; same phone number and price.) The cathedral choir, recently returned from a European tour, performs part one of Handel's Messiah. 'Shut-Ins Christmas Party' Bazaar Cafe, 5927 California; 831-5620. Sat/10, 7pm. Call for price. The country western bluegrass band plays this annual party. Bay Area Brocelïande East West Books, 324 Castro, Mountain View; 1-800-909-6161. Sat/10, 8pm, $12. (Also Dec 17, 7:30pm, Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1301 Mowry Ave, Fremont; (510) 797-3724. $15.) The celebrated Celtic-music vocal and instrumental ensemble presents a concert of Christian and Pagan holiday melodies. 'Candelight Christmas' Burlingame United Methodist Church, 1443 Howard, Burlingame; (650) 579-5568, ext 205, www.masterworks.org. Wed/7, 8pm. $16-25. (Also Sat/10, 8pm, Transfigurations Episcopal Church, 3900 Alameda de las Pulgas, San Mateo; same phone number, website, and price). Masterworks Chorale and tenor Brian Thorsett perform at this candlelight concert featuring classical and modern music. 'Christmas and Advent Motets' St. Ambrose Church, 1145 Gilman, Berk; www.sacredprofane.org. Sat/10, 8pm. $10-15. (Also Sun/11, 7pm, St. John the Evangelist Church, 1661 15th St, SF; same website and price). Bay Area a capella chamber chorus presents a Christmas program featuring music from throughout the ages. Christmas Jug Band Freight and Salvage Coffee House, 1111 Addison, Berk; (510) 548-1761. Tues/13, 8pm. $19.50. The traditional jug band performs music from its 2005 tour, "The Answer in Blowin' in the Jug." Creative Voices Winter benefit and concert Lafayette Christian Church, 584 Glenside, Lafayette; (415) 861-3680. Sun/11, 3pm. $20 donation. The a capella group performs this concert of solo and ensemble works. 'Et in Terra Pax/And on Earth, Peace' Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Dr, Lafayette; (415) 392-4400. Fri/9, 8pm. $14-45. (Also Dec 16, 8pm, St. Raphael's Church, 1104 Fifth Ave, San Rafael; same phone number and price; Dec 21, 8pm, Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness; same phone number and price.) The San Francisco Girls Chorus presents their annual holiday concert program that centers on the theme of world piece. Holiday sing-along with Miss Kitty Dance Palace Community Center, 5th and B Sts, Point Reyes Station; (415) 663-1075. Sat/10, 3pm. $4-8. Entertainer Miss Kitty performs a musical program for the whole family. Holiday songs Piedmont Branch Library, 160 41st St, Oakl; (510) 597-5011. Sat/10, 10:30am. Free. (also Mon/12, 7pm, Montclair Branch, 1687 Mountain Blvd, Oakl; (510) 482-7810. Free.) Bonnie Lockhart performs. 'Holidays with Cantabile' Mission Santa Clara, College of Santa Clara, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara; (650) 424-1410. Sun/18, 4pm. $15. Watch the talented Cantabile Youth Singers perform an ethnically diverse batch of songs including Benjamin Britten's Ceremony of Carols and Claude Debussy's Noel des Enfants. Juanita Ulloa and Her Picante Ensemble Paramount Theatre, 2025 Broadway, Oakl; (510) 444-0801. Sat/10, 8pm. Call for price. The "operachi" singer is joined by gospel artists, guitarist Jose Roberto Hernandez, and Afro-Peruvian cajon player Raul Ramirez to perform a Latin-style version of Handel's Messiah. Patrick Landeza San Leandro Library, 300 Estudillo, San Leandro; (510) 577-3947. Thurs/8, 7:30pm. $12. Slack key guitarist Landeza, with Na Leo Nahenahe Hawaiian Choir and Halau O Ka Ua Lililehua, present this Hawaiian holiday concert featuring American and island holiday classics. 'A Medieval Christmas' St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 600 Colorado, Palo Alto; (415) 979-5779. Sat/10, 8pm. $18-25. (Also Dec 17, 8pm, St. Gregory Nyssen Episcopal Church, 500 De Haro, SF; same phone number and price. Sun/18, 4pm, St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 114 Montecito, Oakl; same phone number and price.) The San Francisco Choral Artists perform early Christmas music under the direction of Magen Solomon; stick around for the post-concert reception featuring refreshing mead. 'Messiah' concert First United Methodist Church, 201 Martina, Point Richmond; (510) 236-0527. Sun/11, 5pm. Free. This concert features the Joyful Noise Choir and community members performing selections from Handel's Messiah. 'Mozart and His Pet Basset Horn' Alameda Art Center, 1701 Webster, Alameda; (925) 283-3728, www.gcplayers.org. Sun/11, 5pm. $10-30. This concert stars the basset horn music performing music by Mozart. Natasha Miller's holiday concert Yoshi's, 510 Embarcadero West, Jack London Square, Oakl; (510) 238-9200, www.yoshis.com. Mon/12, 8 and 10pm. $10-15. The vocalist and violinist performs classic holiday music with a jazz inflection. Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir Oakland City Center, adjacent to 12th St BART Station, Oakl; www.oaklandcitycenter.com. Wed/7, noon-1 pm. Free. The popular gospel choir performs Christmas favorites. Rockapella Carriage House Theatre, Villa Montalvo, Saratoga; (408) 961-5858, www.montalvoargs.org. Wed/7, 7:30pm. $32-37. The contemporary a capella quintet perform a holiday show. 'To Drive the Cold Winter Away: Songs for a Winter's Eve Celebration' St. Mary Magdalen Church, 2005 Berryman, Berk; (510) 525-5393. Sat/10, 8pm. $10-15. Bella Musica Chorus presents a program of Renaissance music works including Tomas Luis de Victoria's 'O Magnum Mysterium' motet and mass. nutcrackers and cracked
nuts 'Dance-Along Nutcracker: The Movies!' Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Forum, 701 Mission; 255-1355, www.sflgfb.org. Sat/10, 2:30 and 7pm; Sun/11, 11am and 3pm. $15-40. This holiday favorite is back for its 20th anniversary, featuring a performance by the San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band saluting Tinseltown. See 8 Days a Week. 'The MeshugaNutcracker!' Presentation Theatre, University of San Francisco, 2350 Turk Blvd; 1-877-456-4849, www.njtf.org. Opens Tues/13, 7:30pm. Runs Tues-Thurs, Sat, 7:30pm; Sun, 1-5pm. Through Dec 18. $18-36. The National Jewish Theatre Festival presents this Hanukkah-themed rendition of Tchaikovsky's score. 'The Nutcracker' War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness; 865-2000, www.sfballet.org. Fri/9-Sun/11, Dec 15-23, and 26, 2 and 7pm (no 2pm show Fri/9 and Dec 15); Dec 24, 11am and 4pm; Dec 27-29, 2pm. Through Dec 29. $18-140. It's easy to make fun of The Nutcracker. It's a cash cow for every two-bit ballet company. It sentimentalizes the nuclear family. It has been shamelessly appropriated by big business. Its two acts don't even hold together very well. Yet give the old thing a chance, and you'll be drawn in. Tchaikovsky's score is irresistible. Take the narrative as a Freudian coming-of-age story, or just take it as an excuse for fun dancing. Helgi Tomasson's 2004 version is a little of both. What makes this one so special is that it's as gentle and luminous as the sun filtering through SF's proverbial fog – not a fleck of bombastic showmanship about it. Setting the work in an Edwardian environment, around the time of the Panama exhibition, may please local chauvinists, but its charm, imagination, and goodwill please even if you are not besotted by this place. The second act is Tomasson's more original reading. It spans a full day with early-morning butterflies, ladybugs, and dragonflies waking up, and ends with a magical transformation of a girl into a princess. The company dances beautifully, and the orchestra sounds splendid. Only one complaint: The choreography for the "Waltz of the Flowers" is too thin, and the knee-length costumes look like flopping shingles coming off a roof. Bring back the old skirts – they were so much more enticing. (Rita Felciano) 'Nutcracker Nutz and Boltz' Marsh, 1062 Valencia; 826-5750. Sat/10-Sun/11, Dec 17-23, 27-30, 2pm. $15-22. Puppet troupe Liebe Wetzel's Lunatique Fantastique performs its unique rendition of this traditional holiday favorite. Bay Area 'The Hard Nut' Zellerbach Hall, UC Berkeley, Bancroft at Telegraph, Berk; (510) 642-0212. Fri/9-Sat/10, Dec 15-17, 8pm (also Sat/10, Dec 17, 2pm); Sun/11, Dec 18, 3pm. $32-60. The Mark Morris Dance Group presents its adaptation of the traditional ballet. 'The Nutcracker' Julia Morgan Center for the Arts, 2640 College, Berk; (510) 843-4689. Fri-Sat, 7pm (also Sat, 2pm); Sun, 2pm. Through Dec 18. $20. The Berkeley Ballet Theater presents their rendition of this holiday favorite choreographed by Sally Streets and Robert Nichols and directed by Sarah Marcus and David Kato. 'The Nutcracker' Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 600 Castro, Mtn View; (650) 903-6000. Fri/9, 7pm; Sat/10-Sun/11, 1 and 6pm. $18.50-22.50. Western Ballet performs this rendition of the Christmastime performance. Come for two events held in conjunction with the performance: the Sweet Tea Party (Sat/10, 3pm, $7) and a meet and greet with the cast of the show (Sun/11, 3pm, free). 'The Nutcracker' Fox Theater, 2215 Broadway, Redwood City; (650) 369-4119. Fri/9, 7:30pm. $14-35. Ballet America presents its version of the Tchaikovsky ballet. theater, comedy, and
performance 'Beach Blanket Babylon Seasonal Extravaganza' Club Fugazi, 678 Beach Blanket Babylon Blvd (Green St); 421-4222. This week: Wed/7-Thurs/8, 8pm (also Wed/7, 5pm); Fri/9-Sat/10, 7 and 10pm; Sun/11, 1 and 4pm. $25-75. Steve Silver's musical comedy features pop-culture figures, tap dancing Christmas trees, and one huge Christmas-themed hat. *'Black Nativity' Lorraine Hansberry Theatre, 620 Sutter; 474-8800, www.lhtsf.org. Thurs-Sat, 8pm; Sun, 4pm. Through Dec 24. $25-32. Based on Langston Hughes's gospel play, this musical rendering of the Christmas story (directed by Stanley E. Williams) offers a rejuvenating respite from the commercial holiday madness going on just outside of this award-winning downtown theater (now celebrating its silver anniversary). Taking us back to the biblical roots of Christmas, the story of the Nativity is told through rousing musical numbers (the opening rendition of "Joy to the World" has the audience clapping along from the first verse), narration, and dance (a modern dance and jazz fusion choreographed by Ronnie Reddick). The second act brings us into the modern era as the Word is spread in a black urban church. Small dramas played out among members of the congregation (a young boy goofs off in the background, a single woman flirts with a married man) give this act some semblance of a narrative, but in truth the fourth wall is about two inches tall here and this is about as close to being in church as you can get without actually being there. It's the soul-stirring gospel music that is this play's raison d'être, and with Robin Hodge-Williams as musical director and the legendary Miss Faye Carol heading up a talented and powerful group of vocalists, this is about as good as it gets. (Lara Shalson) 'The Christmas Ballet' Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Theater, 700 Howard; 978-2787. Wed-Fri, 8pm; Sat, 2 and 8pm; Sun, 2pm (Sun/11, 2 and 7pm). Dec 9-23. $20-60. Smuin Ballet presents their annual holiday show featuring tap dancing, swing, ballet and more to classical, klezmer, jazz, and pop music. 'A Christmas Carol' Geary Theater, 415 Geary; 749-2228, www.act-sf.org. This week: Wed/7, 2pm; Thurs/8-Sun/11, 7pm (also Sat/10-Sun/11, 2pm). Through Dec 24. $18-80. The American Conservatory Theater presents Carey Perloff and Paul Walsh's adaptation of the Dickens holiday tale, featuring set design by Tony Award-winner John Arnone, original songs by Karl Lundeberg, costumes by Beaver Bauer, and choreography by Val Caniparoli. 'A Christmas Carol for Velma Gutflesh' Exit Theatre Cafe, 156 Eddy; (707) 889-6170. Fri-Sat, 8:30pm. Through Dec 17. $15. The National Theatres of the Americas present this comedy by Joe Hogan about Velma Gutflesh, an unstable woman who's visited by the ghosts of love and redemption for the holidays. 'Cinderella' Zeum, 221 Fourth St; www.african-americanshakes.org, www.ticketweb.com. Fri-Sun, 3pm (also Fri-Sat, 8pm; no 8pm show Dec 31; no show Dec 24). Through Dec 31. $20-25. African-American Shakespeare Company presents this classical fairy tale told from an African-American cultural perspective. 'Festival of Lights' Veterans Building, Green Room, 401 Van Ness; 346-8959. Sun/11, 3pm. $12-20. The Lively Foundation presents this music, theater, comedy, and dance concert for the whole family. 'Holiday Shorts III' Phoenix Theatre, 414 Mason, sixth fl; (925) 283-9937, www.brookside-art.org. Sun/11, Dec 15 and 18, 8pm. $14-16. This performance features a collection of holiday-themed shorts by Bay Area playwrights from the Brookside Repertory Theatre. 'Let It Snow! An Improvised Musical' Phoenix Theater, 414 Mason; 869-5384, www.un-scripted.com. Fri-Sat, 8pm; Sun, 3pm. Through Dec 18. $10-15. The Un-Scripted Theater Company presents a full-length improvised musical. 'Really Rosie' New Conservatory Theatre Center, 25 Van Ness; 861-8972, www.nctcsf.org. Dec 10-18, Sat-Sun, 2 (also Sat, 4pm); also Dec 27-31, 2 and 4pm. Through Dec 31. $8-14. New Conservatory Theatre Center presents this holiday musical event featuring music by Carole King. 'The Santaland Diaries' and 'Season's Greetings' Off Market Theater, Stage 250, 965 Mission; 896-6477, ext 2. Thurs-Sun, 8pm. Through Dec 30. $20. Director Richard Ryan brings the hilarious stories of David Sedaris to life. 'A Winter Wonder Dance' Metronome Dance Center, 1830 17th St; 252-9000. Fri/9-Sat/10, 8pm. $25. This student/teacher winter showcase features a cast of more than 50 dancers performing Argentine tango, ballroom, Latin, modern, theater arts, hip-hop, salsa, and more. Bay Area 'A Christmas Carol' Napa Valley District Auditorium, 2475 Jefferson, Napa; 1-800-557-NVRT. Fri/9-Sat/10, Dec 17, 23, 8 pm; Sun/11, Dec 18, and Dec 24, 2pm; Dec 21-22, 7:30pm. Through Dec 24. $15-28. The Napa Valley Repertory Theatre presents a new adaptation by Domenique Lozano of the classic Christmas tale. 'Cirque Do Somethin'' Marsh Berkeley, Gaia Arts Center, 2120 Allston Way, Berk; 1-800-838-3006, www.themarsh.org. Sat/10-Sun/11, Dec 17-18, 27-30, 1pm. $10-15 sliding scale. Moshe Cohen and Unique Derique present this holiday circus arts performance. 'A Grand Night for Singing' Dean Lesher Regional Center for Arts, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek; (925) 943-7469. Fri/9-Sat/10, 8:15pm (also Sat, 2:15pm); Sun/11, 2:15. $23-25. Diablo Light Opera Company presents their production of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Broadway revue. 'Hansel and Gretel' Main Children's Room, Oakland Public Library, 125 14th St, Oakl; (510) 238-3615.Tues/13, 10am. Free. (Also Tues/13, noon, Elmhurst Branch Library, 1427 88th Ave, Oakl; (510) 615-5725. Free.) Opera Piccola presents this theatrical and musical production of the children's fairytale. La Posada: A Christmas Play Chabot College Little Theatre, 25555 Hesperian Blvd, Hayward; (510) 723-6830, www.chabotcollege.edu. Thurs-Sat, 7pm (also Sat/10, 1pm). Through Dec 17. $5. This family-friendly performance features comedy, romance, and music. 'North Pole Review' MLK Jr. Branch Library, 6833 International Blvd, Oakl; (510) 615-5728. Fri/9, 3:30pm, Free. (Also Mon/12, 1pm, West Oakland Branch Library, 1801 Adeline, Oakl; (510) 238-7352. Free. Tues/13, 7pm, Dimond Branch Library, 3565 Fruitvale, Oakl; (510) 482-7844. Free. Dec 20, 2pm, Asian Branch Library, 388 Ninth St, Ste 190, Oakl; (510) 238-3400. Free.) Fratello Marionettes presents this fun and zany production to get you in the holiday spirit. 'Whiskers!' Dean Lesher Regional Center, 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek; (925) 943-7469. Dec 13-15, 9:15am, 11:15am, and 1:15pm; Dec 20-21, 11:15am, 1:15 pm, and 7:15pm; Dec 22, 1:15pm, 3:15pm, 7:15pm. $8-15. This Galatean Players Ensemble Theatre present this musical for the entire family based on Margery Williams' classic The Velveteen Rabbit. 'Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail' Sonoma County Repertory Theater, 104 N. Main St, Sebastopol; (707) 823-0177. Sat, 11am-1pm. Through Dec 17. $5-7. Theater for Young Audiences presents Sonoma County Repertory Theater's production featuring Winnie the Pooh and friends. tree lightings and family
events 'Festival of Lights' Union Street, between Gough and Steiner; 1-800-310-6563, www.sresproductions.com, www.unionstreetsf.com. Sat/10, noon-4pm. Through Dec 17. Free. This street festival continues with holiday festivities including merchant open houses, a silent auction, and an appearance by Santa Claus. 'Fillmore Street Holiday Stroll' Fillmore Street, between Geary and Jackson; (650) 759-1005, www.tangodiva.com. Sat/10, noon-8pm. Free. This street festival features live jazz, merchant trunk shows, a champagne party, a pet parade, an appearance by Santa Claus, and much more. 'Winter Wonderama' San Francisco Public Library Park Branch, 1833 Page; 355-5656. Thurs/8, 11am. Free. (Also Sat/10, 10:30am, La Pena Cultural Center, 3105 Shattuck, Berk; (510) 845-0907. Free. Dec 20, 10:30am, San Francisco Public Library, Eureka Valley/Harvey Milk Branch, 3555 16th St; 355-5616. Free. Dec 20, 2pm, San Francisco Public Library Ingleside Branch, 1649 Ocean; 355-2820. Free.) Children ages 3-7 are invited to this winter-themed event featuring storytelling, puppetry, songs, magic performances, and more. Bay Area 'Breakfast with Santa' Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd, Oakland; (510) 632-9525. Sat-Sun, 9am-noon. Through Dec 18. Free with zoo admission ($5.50-9, breakfast cost is extra). Before visiting the animals at the zoo, stop to have a tasty breakfast and have your photo taken with Santa Claus. 'Winter Family Story Time' Rockridge Branch Library, 5366 College, Oakl; (510) 597-5017. Tues/13, 7pm. Free. Wear your pj's to this family-friendly event wear you'll hear stories that'll make you feel all warm inside. Winter holiday craft program Montclair Branch Library, 1687 Mountain Blvd, Oakl; (510) 482-7810. Fri/9, 3:30pm. Free. Make holiday cards celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa at this event. arts and crafts 'Affordable Art' City Art Gallery, 828 Valencia; 970-9900, www.cityartgallery.org. Wed-Sun, noon-9pm. Through Jan 29. Free. You can buy masterpieces for $150 or less at this show featuring art by local artists. Artist-Xchange holiday gift fair Artist-Xchange, 3169 16th St; 864-1490. Sat, noon-6pm. Through Dec 24. Free. Local artists and designers sell their works at this event. 'Christmas Stockings; an erotic holiday' Fusion Artwork Gallery, lower level of Stormy Leather, 1158 Howard; 821-2431. Daily, noon-7pm. Through Jan 4. Free. This titillating art show features works by Carolyn Weltman, Ray Leaning, Barbara Jensen, Jack Henslee, Howard Austin Feld, Erik Drudwyn, Sherri Grotts, and others. 'Creativity Explored's Holiday Art Sale' Creativity Explored, 3245 16th St; 863-2108, www.creativityexplored.org. Mon-Fri, 10am-3pm; Sat, 1-6pm. Through Dec 31. Free. This art sale features works by artists with developmental, psychiatric, and/or physical disabilities. 'Feria Urbana' Canvas Gallery, 1200 Ninth; 504-0060. Thurs/8, 6-10pm (also Dec 17-18, noon-5pm). Free. Get the perfect gift for your hip friends at this clothing, accessory, and craft show featuring wares by Bay Area artists and designers. 'Hollyday Trunk Show' 66 Balmy Gallery, 591 Guerrero; 522-0502. Sat/10, noon-5pm. Free. Local contemporary designers – including Claudia Kussano, Sandra Pereira, D Dasari, and Sati Designs – present their wares at this event. Mexican Museum holiday art sale Fort Mason Center, Bldg D, Marina at Laguna; 202-9700, www.mexicanmuseum.org. Tues-Sat, 11am-5pm. Through Dec 23. Free. This holiday art sale features works by local and international artists. 'San Francisco Center for the Book Holiday Fair 2005' San Francisco Center for the Book, 300 De Haro; 565-0545, www.sfcb.org. Fri/9, 6-9pm; Sat/10, 9:30am-5pm. Free. This holiday fair features limited-edition 2006 calendars made by Pacific Center for the Book Arts members, artists' books and journals, handmade papers, holiday cards, and more for sale. SFAI winter art sale and exhibition San Francisco Art Institute, 800 Chestnut; 749-4507. Sale, Sat/10, 10am-1pm, exhibition runs through Sat/10 (closed Fri/9), noon-2pm. $10 from 10-10:30am, free after 10:30am. The art institute presents this sale of works by current MFA students. 'Shop Your Rocks Off!' Bottom of the Hill, 1233 17th St; 621-4455. Sat/10, noon-5pm. Free. Twenty-five local artists showcase their wares at this trunk show that also featuring cocktails, snacks, and music by DJs Rock Foxy and GlimmerCat. Springer-Croke fine art group holiday exhibit Springer-Croke Fine Art, 3236 Sacramento; 931-1779. Opens Fri/9, 5:30-8:30pm; gallery hours, Wed-Sat, 11am-5pm, and by appt. Dec 8-Jan 20. The gallery presents this show featuring paintings, sculpture, and mixed media works by Marcine Franckowiak, Susan Friedman, Ginny Parsons, and others. Studio holiday sale Space 743, 743 Harrison; 777-9080. Wed-Sat, noon-5pm, and by appt. Through Dec 17. Buy ceramics of all kinds at this art sale. Sunset Holiday Craft Boutique Sunset Co-op Nursery School, 4245 Lawton; 759-6819. Sat/10, 10am-5pm. Free. Buy your friends and loved ones handmade crafts and jewelry at this boutique; the event also features children's activities, music, massage booths, a raffle, belly dancing, food, and more. Third Street holiday warehouse sale 2455 Third St; 561-9703. Sat/10, 8:30am-4:30pm. Free. Shop for everyone on your list at this annual sale featuring children's toys, home furnishings, accessories, jewelry, wearable art, and more. Velvet da Vinci holiday show Velvet da Vinci, 2015 Polk; 441-0109. Mon-Sat, noon-6pm; Sun, noon-5pm. Through Dec 31. This 15th annual art show features the latest work by the gallery's artists.
Bay Area Berkeley Artisans holiday open studios Various locations, Berk; (510) 845-2612, www.berkeleyartisans.com. Sat-Sun, 11am-6pm. Through Dec 18. Free. Take a self-guided tour of the studios of more than 100 Berkeley artists and craftspeople (a map can be dowloaded from the Web site). Berkeley Farmers' Market holiday crafts fair Martin Luther King Jr. Civic Center Park, Center at MLK Jr Way, Berk; (510) 548-3333, www.ecologycenter.org. Sat, 10am-4pm. Through Dec 17. Free. Buy organic produce and handmade goods while enjoying live folk, jazz, rock, blues, and world music and spoken word at this outdoor community affair. Berkeley Potter's Guild holiday sale and show Berkeley Potter's Guild, 731 Jones, Berk; (510) 524-7031, www.berkeleypotters.com. Sat-Sun and Dec 19-24, 10am-6pm. Through Dec 24. Free. Buy ceramic art at this event featuring works for sale by 20 artists and a gallery show, "Playing With Fire." 'Fifth Avenue Neighborhood Holiday Art Sale' 499 Embarcadero, Oakl; (510) 835-1920. Sat/10-Sun/11, 11am-5pm. Free. Cricket Engine Studio and Gallery and Anne Austin Studios presents this art sale featuring affordable handcrafted works. Holiday art Studios D and E, 1313 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek and Shadeland Auditorium, 111 N Wiget Lane; (925) 943-5846. Opening party at both locations, Thurs/8, 5-9pm; Fri/9, 10am-9pm; Sat/10, 10am-5pm; Sun/11, 10am-4pm. Civic Arts Education and the Clay Arts Guild present this two-location art sale featuring ceramics, paintings, jewelry, photography, and more. Holiday craft sale Berkeley Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo, Berk; www.no-burn.com, www.ecologycenter.org. Sun/11, 11am-4pm. This sale features crafts from around the world made from reused and recycled materials. Holiday exhibition and sale Creative Growth Art Center, 355 24th St, Oakl; (510) 836-2340, ext 15. Sat, 10am-4pm. Through Jan 6. Free. Creative Growth presents its yearly exhibit and sale featuring works by more than 140 visual artists with disabilities. Holiday studio sale Bruce Pizzichillo and Dari Gordon Studio, 2680 Union, Oakl; (610) 832-8380. Sat/10-Sun/11, 10am-4pm. Oakland glass artists Bruce Pizzichillo and Dari Gordon open their studio for a holiday art exhibit and sale featuring vases, bowls, sculptures, and more. Peralta Studios Holiday Arts and Crafts Sale Peralta Studios, 2121 Peralta, Oakl; (510) 868-0655. Sun/11, 10am-5pm. Free. The Peralta Studios artists present their glass-ware, jewelry, paintings, prints, knit items, and more for sale. 'Spirit of the Holidays Gift Fair' Sonoma County Fairgrounds, Grace Pavilion, 1350 Bennett Valley, Santa Rosa; (707) 861-2035, www.spiritoftheholidays.com. Fri/9-Sun/11, 10am-6pm. $2-5. Shop for gifts for everyone on your list at this fair featuring 250 booths. 'Telegraph Ave Holiday St Fair 2005' Telegraph Ave, between Dwight Way and Bancroft Way, Berk; (510) 234-1013. Sat/10-Sun/11, Dec 17-18, 23-24, 11am-6pm. Free. More than 200 artists, merchants, and community groups set up for this four-block street fair featuring a handmade craft show. University of California Botanical Garden at Berkeley holiday sale UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Dr, Berk; (510) 643-2755. Through Dec 12. 10:30am-4:30pm. Free. Choose a gift for your loved ones at this plant sale featuring rare unusual plants, pots, books, and more. |
||||