Joan Marcus
No Doubt It’s a Hit
What: ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’
When: Dec. 19-24
Where: Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis
Based on the popular film about an out-of-work actor who finds a clever way to stay close to his kids dressed in disguise as a Scottish nanny, Rob McClure reprises his Tony-nominated Broadway performance on tour alongside co-star (and real wife!) Maggie Lakis.
She’s Everything
What: ‘I Am Betty’
When: Through Dec. 23
Where: History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., St. Paul
Betty Crocker, the fictional icon, gets some “Barbie” treatment in this musical that grapples with conflicted feelings over what she has represented across generations.
Reunited – And it Sounds So Good
What: Barbara Cohen + Little Lizard Reunion Show with The Hang Ups
When: Dec. 30
Where: The Hook and Ladder Theater, 3010 Minnehaha Ave., Minneapolis
Two stellar 1990s bands come together in a rare double bill as Barbara Cohen reunites with her Little Lizard bandmates —T.C. luminaries cellist Jacqueline Ultan, guitarist Jeremy Ylivisaker and percussionist Marc Anderson—for a world-folk-jazz evening. Singer-songwriter Cohen is a home-towner, freshly returned from L.A. with film composer creds. She is fondly remembered locally for her debut band Farm Accident. Special guests The Hang Ups, known for landing a song on Kevin Smith’s “Chasing Amy” film, kick things off.
Photo by Jeremy Daniel
Lessons From Neverland
What: ‘Peter Pan’
When: Through Dec. 31
Where: The Ordway, 345 Washington St., St. Paul
Director Lonny Price brings an updated, modern day version of this classic to stage with new music and 16-year-old Nolan Almeida playing the title role.
St. Paul Grand Meander
What: Summit Avenue Artisan Festival
When: Through Dec. 31
Where: Summit Avenue, St. Paul
The 14th annual Summit Avenue Artisan Festival features locally handcrafted items from more than 40 artists and artisans, plus food, kids’ activities, and a Santa for pics.
Rockin’ It
What: Miracle at Big Rock
When: Through Dec. 31
Where: Big Rock Creek, 1674 State Highway 87, St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin
Just across Wisconsin border, Big Rock Creek is ringing in the holiday season. The camping and event venue’s annual winter festival features light displays, food trucks, sledding, cocktails, fireworks, and other activities.
Ad Break
What: British Arrow Awards
When: Through Dec. 31
Where: Walker Art Center, 725 Vineland Place, Minneapolis
A yearly tradition—and the Walker’s most popular annual program—Great Britain’s best “telly adverts” screen at the contemporary art museum. Celebs roped into the fun this year include Miley Cyrus, Daniel Craig, John Boyega, and others.
Sarah Dope
GLOWed Up
What: GLOW Holiday Festival
When: Through Dec. 31
Where: CHS Field, 360 Broadway St., St. Paul
GLOW Holiday Festival returns to CHS Field this year, adding Vixen’s 300-foot tandem zip line to the entertainment. Enjoy illuminated displays, holiday eats, and a synchronized light show every 15 minutes.
