Cover Story: Holiday happenings

Dance
1, 2, 3,. . .More! Performance by Full Radius Dance featuring solos, duets, trios, and the full company premiere of Douglas Scott’s NOTcracker Suite. Opens Dec. 3. Dec. 3, 8 p.m.; Dec. 4, 3 p.m. & 8 p.m. $12-$15. 7 Stages, 1105 Euclid Ave. 404-523-7647.

The Nutcracker :

Presented by the Gainesville Ballet. For info, 770-532-4241 or www.gainesvilleballet.org. Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 4, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 5, 2 p.m. $10-22. Pearce Auditorium, Brenau University, 1 Centennial Circle, Gainesville.

Presented by the Atlanta Ballet. Opens Nov. 27. Tue.-Thur., 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; Thursdays, 11 a.m.; Fridays, 11 a.m.& 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m.; Dec. 24, 1 p.m. $24-$68. Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St. 404-881-2100.

Presented by North Atlanta Dance Theatre Dec. 3, 8 p.m.; Dec. 4, 2:30 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Dec. 5, 2:30 p.m. $12-$18. Blessed Trinity Theater, 11340 Woodstock Road, Roswell. 678-297-2800.

Excerpts presented by the Callanwolde Dance Ensemble. Dec. 4, 9:30 a.m. & 10:45 a.m.; Dec. 11, 9:30 a.m. & 10:45 a.m. $5. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, 980 Briarcliff Road. 404-872-5338.

Presented by The Georgia Ballet. Dec. 10, 7 p.m.; Dec. 11, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.; Dec. 12, 1:30 p.m. & 5:30 p.m. $16-$26. Cobb County Civic Center, 548 S. Marietta Parkway, Marietta. 770-528-8450.

Presented by Dancentre South. For info, 770-516-7229. Dec. 17, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 18, 2:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 19, 2:30 p.m. $12-$7. Cobb County Civic Center, 548 S. Marietta Parkway, Marietta. 770-516-7229.

The Nutcracker, All Jazzed Up A jazzy twist of the traditional holiday favorite. Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 4, 2:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. $5. Collins Hill High School, 50 Taylor Road, Suwanee.

The Nutty Nutcracker Atlanta Ballet presents a skewed version of the Nutcracker, featuring characters including Batman, Tinkerbell and Scooby Doo. One night only. Sun., Dec. 12, 7 p.m. $21-$63. Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St. 404-881-2100.

?Events
17th Annual Tree Lighting Downtown Lawrencville celebrates Thanksgiving with live entertainment and horse-drawn carriage rides. Thu., Nov. 25, 7-8:30 p.m. $3-$5. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 770-822-5450.

Amazing Journeys: A Day of Celebration Annual holiday party includes a strolling St. Nicholas, face painting, performances and ornament arts & crafts. Dec. 5, 12-5 p.m. Fernbank Museum of Natural History, 767 Clifton Road. 404-929-6300.

Annual Lighting of the Square Held at Roswell’s Historic Town Square, includes caroling. Sat., Dec. 4. 770-641-3950.

Annual Tree Lighting and Music on the Main Live holiday music throughout the evening with a fireworks display. Stay and catch an early glimpse of Santa. For info, 770-465-6776. Fri., Nov. 26, 6-9 p.m. Stone Mountain Village.

Breakfast with Santa Two-course breakfast for parents and children alike. Bring your camera to capture a special moment with Santa. For info and reservations, 404-815-6677 or www.fifthgroup.com. Dec. 11, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; Dec. 12, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $34. The Food Studio, 887 W. Marietta St., Studio K-102. 404-815-6677.

Candlelight Tour of Bulloch Hall and Smith Plantation Home See these historic homes decorated for Christmas. Fri., Dec. 17, 7-9 p.m. $6-$10. Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell. 770-992-1731.

Captain Planet Foundation X-mas Party Captain Planet Foundation celebrates it’s 10th annual Christmas party, “Peace, Love, One World.” Jane Fonda, Ted Turner, and Jerry Hoban are special guests attend. Benefiting Captain Planet Foundation, Atlanta Children’s Shelter, and other organizations. For info and tickets, visit www.xmasparty.org. Fri., Dec. 3, 6:45 p.m. $100-500. Tabernacle, 152 Luckie St. 404-659-9022.

Chanukah Extravaganza The Sophie Hirsch Srochi Jewish Dicovery Museum and the Marcus Jewish Community Center present an interactive family program that includes a wide range of activities and entertainment. $5-$8. Dec. 26, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Zaban Park, 5342 Tilly Milly Road, Dunwoody. 770-396-3250.

Christmas Parade The 24th annual Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Christmas Parade returns, beginning in downtown Atlanta at Peachtree Street and Ralph McGill Boulevard and ending at Centennial Olympic Park. For info, 404-785-NOEL or visit www.choa.org/festival. Sat., Dec. 4, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Free.

Christmas High Tea A break from the hustle and bustle of the 21st century. Enjoy a candlelight tea served by ladies in period clothing. Nov. 30, 4 p.m.; Dec. 1, 4 p.m.; Dec. 2, 4 p.m.; Dec. 6, 4 p.m.; Dec. 7, 4 p.m.; Dec. 9, 4 p.m. $25. Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell. 770-992-1731.

Family Week Exhibition and holiday related activities for the whole family. Includes storytelling, art workshops, tours, food and more. For info, www.high.org. Dec. 26-31, 1-4 p.m. High Museum of Art, 1280 Peachtree St. NE. 404-733-4400.

Festival of the Nativity Hundreds of international nativity scenes, nightly concerts, theatrical presentations and activities for kids. Dec. 9, 6:30-9 p.m.; Dec. 10-11, 6:30-9 p.m.; Dec. 12, 6:30-9 p.m. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 5995 Spalding Drive, Norcross. 770-246-0393.

28th Annual Festival of Trees See the Georgia World Congress Center transformed into an enchanted, tree-lined, streetscape. Rides, storytelling, craft making, and a meet with Santa for children. For info, visit www.choa.org/festival or call 404-785-NOEL. Begins Dec. 4. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m. Through Dec. 12. $5-10. Georgia World Congress Center, 285 International Boulevard.

Hanukkah Party and Family Dinner Congregation Dor Tamid’s annual celebration, including musical entertainment, decorating cookies, food and childrens activities. Sun., Dec. 12, 5-7 p.m. Big Creek Elementary, 1994 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming.

Holiday in the Garden The grounds will be decorated for the holidays with festive decorations and colorful lights. Enjoy crafts, demonstrations, performances and special treats. Seasonal food and beverage available. For info, 404-876-5859. Sun., Dec. 5, 12-5 p.m. Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1345 Piedmont Ave. 404-876-5859.

Kwanzaa festival Presented by The APEX Museum, includes an African market, a children’s corner with face painting, storytelling, crafts, and more, booksignings, theatrical productions, and African drum and dance performances. For info, 404-521-APEX. Thu., Dec. 30, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. APEX Museum, 135 Auburn Ave. 404-523-2739.

Light Up College Park Opens the holiday season with refreshments, seasonal music and a ceremony to turn on all the Christmas lights in the city. Mon., Nov. 29, 7 p.m. College Park City Hall, 3667 Main Street, College Park.

Lighting of the Rich’s-Macy’s Great Tree The 57th annual lighting of the Christmas tree is followed with performances by Kenny Rogers, Rebecca Lyn Howard and Billy Dean. Thu., Nov. 25, 7-8 p.m. Rich’s-Macy’s, Lenox Square, 3393 Peachtree St. 770-913-5639.

Magical Nights of Lights Over one million lights fill this 6.5 mile driving tour. See Santa’s Workshop and the Holiday Village with bonfires and holiday goodies. Nov. 18-Dec. 30. Lake Lanier Islands, Holiday Road, Buford. 770-932-7200.

A Main Street Christmas Celebration Christmas celebration with giveaways, carolers, refreshments, photos with Santa and even live reindeer. Fri., Dec. 10, 5-9 p.m. East Point City Hall, 2777 E. Point Street, East Point.

Pink Pig Rich’s-Macy’s Pink Pig is back, offering train rides to children while driving them through a gigantic storybook. Nov. 18-Jan. 2. $3. Rich’s-Macy’s, Lenox Square, 3393 Peachtree St. 404-233-6767.

Polar Express Party Children can celebrate this timeless tale with storytime and surprises. For info, 404-237-7199. Sat., Dec. 4, 11 a.m. Chapter 11, 2345-A Peachtree Road. 404-237-7199.

Super-Duper Grown Folks Christmas Throwback Disco Party and Show Live music and dancing. Proceeds benefit the Arts Exchange Building Fund. For info, 404-215-0467. Sat., Dec. 18, 8 p.m. $5. Arts Exchange, 750 Kalb St. 404-624-4211.

Tot Shabbat Event presented by Congregation Dor Tamid, and designed to introduce toddlers and preschoolers to a casual Shabbat service. Sat., Dec. 11, 10:30 a.m. Tuxford Subdivision Clubhouse, Windham Way, Alpharetta.

A Tour Through the Gospels of Luke and Matthew Exhibition of over 200 nativity scenes from around the world, sculpted in materials ranging from carved wood to volcanic ash. $3-$4. Episcopal Church of the Epiphany, 2089 Ponce de Leon.

Virginia-Highland Tour of Homes View homes decorated for the holidays. For info and locations, www.vahi.org. Dec. 11, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Dec. 12, 12-5 p.m. $15.

?Music
Annual Thanksgiving Concert. Drivin’ n’ Cryin’, Dash Rip Rock, The High Strung. Nov. 26. 9 p.m. $20. Roxy Theater, 3110 Roswell Road. 404-249-6400.

Suntrust SuperPOPS. Bravo! Hollywood and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra celebrate Hollywood hits, conducted by Michael Krajewski. Nov. 26 and Nov. 27. 8 p m. $21-$53. Woodruff Arts Center, 1280 Peachtree St. 404-733-5000.

Gospel Christmas. Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and All-Atlanta Chorus with Sallie B. Parish. Dec. 2-Dec. 4. Thurs.-Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 8 p.m. $12-$32. Woodruff Arts Center, 1280 Peachtree St. 404-733-5000.

Moscow Boys Choir Choral event featuring the prestigious Russian boys choir, founded in 1957. Dec. 3. 8:15 p.m. $20. Spivey Hall. 5900 N. Lee St., Morrow. 770-960-4200.

Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. Conducted by Eric Nelson and featuring the Emory University Chorus and Concert Choir, the candlelit service features a variety of international seasonal songs. Dec. 3-Dec. 4. Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 5 and 8 p.m. Glenn Memorial Auditorium. 1652 N. Decatur Road. 404-727-5050.

Holiday Gala. Family concert performed by Georgia State University School of Music. Program includes traditional holiday carols and Hanukkah melodies. Dec. 4-Dec. 5. Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m. $16-$42. Rialto Center for the Performing Arts, 80 Forsyth St. 404-651-4727.

A Peter White Christmas. Holiday jazz with Peter White featuring Rick Braun and Mindi Abair. Dec. 4. 8 p.m. $30-$40. Ferst Center, 349 Ferst Drive. 404-894-9600.

Israeli Reception and Concert. Featuring Shira Batzbur NYC, audience members have the chance to participate in karaoke-like sing-a-longs to great Israeli hits. Dec. 4. 8 p.m. $22-$28. Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, Zaban Park. 770-395-2654.

99x Mistletoe Jam. Velvet Revolver, Jimmy Eat World, Muse, Keanne, The Music. Dec. 5. 5:30 p.m. $27-$39.50. Arena at Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth. 404-249-6400.

Q100 Frosty the Showman. Alicia Keys and Good Charlotte. Dec. 5. 7:30 p.m. $35. Philips Arena, 1 Philips Drive. 404-497-4700.

Christmas Echos Presented by The Michael O’Neal Singers, this annual concert features Antonio Vivaldi’s Gloria, with chamber orchestra. Sun., Dec. 5, 3 p.m. $12-$15. Roswell United Methodist Church, 814 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell. 770-594-7974.

Kids Holiday. Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra, Lee Harper and Dancers, and conductor Jere Flint. Dec. 5 and Dec. 12. 1:30 and 3:30pm. $15-$20. Woodruff Arts Center. 1280 Peachtree St. 404-733-5000.

A Scottish Christmas with Bonnie Rideout. Traditional highland holiday music. Dec. 5. 8 p.m. $20-$35. Ferst Center, 349 Ferst Drive. 404-894-9600.

Christmas with the Atlanta Symphony Orechestra. More than 400 singers and musicians of the symphony and chorus in this showcase conducted by William Fred Scott. Dec. 4 continues through Dec. 11. Thurs.-Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 8 p.m. $19-$55. Woodruff Arts Center, 1280 Peachtree St. 404-733-5000.

Atlanta Singers. Concert features a mix of A Cappella and traditional holiday songs, conducted by David Brensinger. Dec. 11. 8:15pm. $10. Spivey Hall. 5900 N Lee St.. Morrow. 770-960-4200.

The Many Moods of Christmas Sun., Dec. 12, 7 p.m. Peachtree Road United Methodist Church, 3180 Peachtree Road. 404-266-2373.

Atlanta Celtic Christmas Concert. Presented by Emory Arts and hosted by James Flannnery this showcase includes more than a dozen musicians, storytellers, and dancers who specialize in the arts of Celtic tradition. Dec. 11. Continues through Dec. 12. 8 p.m. $8-$20. Schwartz Center. 1700 N. Decatur Road. 404-727-5050.

Handel’s Messiah. Conducted by Norman Mackenzie, featuring Twyla Robinson, Robynne Redmon, Frank Timmerman, Gerard Sunderberg. Dec. 16. 8 p.m. $19-$55. Woodruff Arts Center. 1280 Peachtree St. 404-733-5000.

Kingsized Christmas Show. Dec. 17. 8 p.m. $10. Echo Lounge, 551 Flat Shoals Ave. 404-681-3600.

Clay Aiken with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Dec. 17. Continues through Dec. 18. Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 p.m. $25-$75. Woodruff Arts Center. 1280 Peachtree St. 404-733-5000.

Glen Miller Orchestra. Big band holiday hits. Dec. 18. 3 and 8:15 p.m. $30. Spivey Hall. 5900 N Lee St., Morrow. 770-960-4200.

Very Merry Holiday Pops. Featuring the Von Trapp Family Singers and the ASO conducted by Michael Krajewski. Dec. 19. 2 p.m. $22-$58. Woodruff Arts Center 1280 Peachtree St. 404-733-5000.

Blind Boys of Alabama. Dec. 19. 8 p.m. $30-$45. Woodruff Arts Center.1280 Peachtree St. 404-733-5000.

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concert P.D.Q. Bach with the conductor Peter Schickele. Dec. 21. 8 p.m. $20-$45. Woodruff Arts Center. 1280 Peachtree St. 404-733-5000.

ASO’s New Years Eve Fri., Dec. 31, 9:30 p.m. Atlanta Symphony Hall, Woodruff Arts Center, 1280 Peachtree St. 404-733-5000.

?New Years Events
8th Annual New Year’s Eve Party Open bar plus dinner and breakfast buffet. Live bands and DJ’s Ring in the New Year with style. For info, 404-249-0001. Fri., Dec. 31, 9 p.m. $105-$135. Park Tavern, 500 10th St. 404-249-0001.

The Downtown Countdown 99X hosts New Year’s Eve bash with 11 bands, DJs and an all-you-can-eat buffet. Fri., Dec. 31. $115. Marriott Marquis, 265 Peachtree Center Avenue, NE.

Heathen Chemistry New Year’s Eve party with live DJ’s. Jay Herren from 99X’s Sunday School spins the best of Brit Rock, Indie and Alternative. Open bar and champagne toast at midnight. Limited seating. For info, www.heathenchemistry.net. Fri., Dec. 31. $50. Vinyl, 1374 W. Peachtree St. 404-885-9198.

Peach Drop Underground Atlanta’s annual new Year’s bash. Live music and entertainment. Televised. Free. Underground Atlanta, 50 Upper Alabama St. 404-523-2311. www.underground-atlanta.com.

?Theater
1940s Christmas Canteen A big band-style musical revue by Scott Rousseau and Annie Cook. This holiday classic is in its 9th year in Atlanta and celebrates the big band/World War II era. Great for the whole family. Wed., Dec. 1. O2 at Onstage Atlanta, Onstage Atlanta, 2597 N. Decatur Road, Decatur. 404-897-1802.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Magical family comedy including holiday themed variety acts. Opens Nov. 26. Fri., Sat., 8 p.m.; Sat., Sun., 2 p.m. Continues through Dec. 19. $12. Big Top Theatre, 2060 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta. 770-565-3502.

Capture the Moon Jewish Theatre of the South presents a family holiday show based on the Jewish folk tales of Chelm. Sundays, 3 p.m.; Wed., Thur., Sat., 8 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. $18-$26. Morris and Rae Frank Theatre, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. 770-396-3250.

Chick and Boozy’s Holiday on Ice Can Boozy the Imp and the spirits of holiday past, present and future convince Chick to have a drink during the annual holiday variety show? Opens Dec. 2. Thur.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sundays, 5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 19. $9-$23. Dad’s Garage Theatre, 280 Elizabeth St. 404-523-3141.

Christmas Carol: Special Edition What if one director had enough money, modern technology, and ego madness to go back and “fix” all the shortcomings in his high school production of A Christmas Carol? Fri.-Sun. Continues through Dec. 19. Dad’s Garage Theatre, 280 Elizabeth St. 404-523-3141.

A Christmas Carol:

Storytelling presented by the Shakespeare Tavern. Opens Dec. 9. Mon.-Sun. Continues through Dec. 19. New American Shakespeare Tavern, 499 Peachtree St. 404-874-5299.

Presented by the Alliance Theatre. Opens Dec. 1. Wed.-Sun. Continues through Dec. 26. Alliance Theatre, 1280 Peachtree St., Woodruff Arts Center. 404-733-5000.

Presented by Kudzu Playhouse. Opens Nov. 26. Thur.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sundays, 5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 24. $12-$18. Kudzu Playhouse, 608 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell. 770-594-1020.

Presented by The Cobb Players. Reduced-price, weekday performances designed for young audiences. Fri., Sat., 8 p.m.; Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m. Continues through Dec. 23. $8-$16. Cobb Playhouse and Studio, 4857 North Main St., Suite 240, Acworth. 770-565-3995.

Presented by Rosewater Theatre Opens Nov. 26. Charity show on Dec. 5 benefits the United Way. For info, 770-781-9178. Thur.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Saturdays, 2:30 p.m.; Dec. 5, 2:30 p.m.; Dec. 12, 2:30 p.m. Continues through Dec. 18. $16-$25. Cumming Attractions Theatre Co., 101 School Street, Cumming. 770-781-9178.

A Christmas Memory Theatrical Outfit presents Tom Key’s adaptation of two short stories by Truman Capote. Opens Dec. 16. Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 17, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 19, 2:30 p.m.; Dec. 21, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 22, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 23, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 24, 2:30 p.m. The Balzer Theater, 84 Luckie Street. 404-577-5257.

Colors of Love Holiday production for children presented by the Freddie Hendrick’s Youth Ensemble of Atlanta. Tells the story of Mama Jones and her four kids as they turn a potentially disastrous Christmas Eve into a fun-filled holiday. This year, sponsor a seat for a needy child. For info, info@fhyea.org. Dec. 14-17, 10 a.m.; Dec. 18, 2 p.m.; Dec. 19, 3 p.m. $10. 14th Street Playhouse, 173 14th St. 404-475-4932.

Expecting Carol Pushpush presents the story of a struggling theater company, an insane production of A Christmas Carol for a Jewish audience on Christmas Eve, a pregnant stage manager thrown into a major role...and where’s Tiny Tim? Opens Nov. 26. Thur.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sundays, 7 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. $12-$15. PushPush Theater, 121 New St., Decatur. 404-337-6332.

Holiday Burlesque Presented by Red Velvet Revue. Fri., Dec. 3. $10. Echo Lounge, 551 Flat Shoals Ave. 404-681-3600.

Home for the Holidays An original musical celebrating the joyous traditions of the holidays. Friends and family gather to recall holiday memories through story and song. Opens Nov. 19. Fri., Sat., 8 p.m.; Sundays, 2:30 p.m. Continues through Dec. 19. Stage Door Player Theatre, 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody. 770-396-1726.

Hometown Holidays - Aurora’s Canteen 2004 Combines holiday musical standards, sketch comedy and a tribute to our veterans and armed forces. Opens Nov. 26. Wed.-Fri., 8 p.m.; Saturdays, 2:30 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sundays, 2:30 p.m. Continues through Dec. 19. $18-$25. Aurora Theatre, 3087-B Main St., Duluth. 770-476-7926.

It’s a Wonderful Life:

Presented by Centerstage North Theatre. Dec. 10-18, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. $8. The Art Place, 3330 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta. 770-516-3330.

Presented by Class Act Theatre. Opens Nov. 19. Fri., Sat., 8 p.m.; Sundays, 3 p.m. Continues through Dec. 19. $15-$18. Class Act Theatre, 25 Powder Springs St., Marietta. 770-579-3156.

Jacob Marley’s A Christmas Carol Georgia Ensemble Theatre presents a different take on this classic tale, highlighting Jacob Marley’s opportunity to save his friend Ebenezer Scrooge from personal hell. Dec. 15. Wed.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sundays, 2:30 p.m.; Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m.; Thur.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Dec. 19, 2:30 p.m.; Tue., Wed., 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 23, 4 p.m. $16-$33. Georgia Ensemble Theatre, Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 770-641-1260.

The Man Who Came to Dinner Centerstage North Theatre presents the story of Sheridan Whiteside as he turns the calm Stanley residence into Grand Central Station over Christmas. Dec. 9-18. Call for times. $8. The Art Place, 3330 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta. 678-574-8400.

One Hand Clapping plus Holiday Cabaret The Process Theatre presents a play about Jack and Jill teaching the rights and wrongs of self pleasure with the aid of Martha Stewart, a Catholic Nun and many others. Act II is a holiday cabaret. Dec. 11, 8:30 p.m.; Dec. 12, 8 p.m. $15-$20. Dad’s Garage Top Shelf Theatre, 280 Elizabeth St. 404-245-4205.

Peace and Winter’s Light: An evening of Muslim, Jewish and Christian Holiday Stories and Songs Storytellers Janice Butt, Opal Muhammed and Warren Jacobs; singing by Elise Witt. Sat., Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m. Donation. Central Congregational Church, 2676 Clairmont Rd.

The Promised One North Metro First Baptist Celebration Choir and Orchestra present this Christmas musical for the whole family. Sat., Dec. 4, 7 p.m. North Metro First Baptist, 1026 Old Peachtree Road NE, Lawrenceville. 770-995-9055.

Sanders Family Christmas The Smoke on the Mountain Sanders clan returns for the holidays with fun-loving mischief and memorable gospel music. Opens Nov. 23. Tue.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sundays, 2:30 p.m. & 7 p.m. Continues through Jan. 9. $15-$34. Theatre in the Square, 11 Whitlock Ave., Marietta. 770-422-8369.

The Santaland Diaries Horizon Theater presents the holiday hit comedy written by NPR comic David Sedaris. Opens Dec. 3. $20. Horizon Theatre, 1083 Austin Ave. 404-584-7450.

The Twelve Days of Christmas Interactive family theater about the misadventures of Jacques and Snowflake, two elves from the North Pole. Presented by The Atlantic Coast Theatre for Youth. Thu., Dec. 9, 7 p.m. $7.50-$15. Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt College Circle, Waleska. 770-720-9167.

Urban Holiday Soup This holiday original is filled with dance, music and comedy. For info, 404-475-4932. Dec. 15-19. $20-$15. Youth Ensemble Atlanta, 881 Ponce de Leon Ave.

A Very Merry Murder Agatha’s presents a new comedy-mystery about murders on the set of a home improvement show. Tue.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 7 p.m. Continues through Jan. 12. $45-$55. Agatha’s-A Taste of Mystery, 693 Peachtree St. 404-875-4321.

Winter Wonderettes Betty, Jean, Cindy Jou, Missy and Suzy are the “marvelous Wonderettes” and they are entertaining at the 1968 Holiday Party for Harper’s Hardware. Opens Nov. 19. Thur.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sundays, 3 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. $19-$25. ART Station, 5384 Manor Drive, Stone Mountain. 770-469-1105.

?Visual Arts
Alcove Holiday Show Group show featuring paintings, jewelry and apparel from local and national emerging artists. Tue.-Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Continues through Feb. 1. 2110 Peachtree Street. 404-438-1052.

Arts For All Gallery Holiday Arts Sale. Arts for All Gallery hosts Holiday Arts Sale 2004, an annual event that offers holiday shoppers affordable fine arts and quality craft items by a variety of Atlanta artists. For more info, visit www. VSAartsGA.org. Nov. 17-Dec. 23, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 57 Forsyth St. 404-221-1270, ext. 202.

ARTSCooL Gallery Space Holiday Sale. Oil and acrylic paintings, stone sculptures, quilts, ceramics, custom pillows and journals, poetry collections and more, all created by aspiring teen artists. Fri., Dec. 3, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. City Hall East, 675 Ponce de Leon Avenue.

Atlanta Contemporary Art Center Studio Artists’ Open House. Many works will be for sale. Thu., Dec. 2, 6-9 p.m. 535 Means St. 404-688-1970.

Be Original! Art is a Gift. Year-end gathering of fine art paintings, photography, sculpture, jewelry and ceramics. Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. 800 Miami Circle, Suite 210. 404-824-0022.

Better Birth Foundation Art Sale. Original acrylic paintings and wood sculptures by Charlie Seagraves; vintage Pat Pearson lithographs. Mon.-Sun. Continues through Dec. 24. 756 Green Street, Gainesville. 770-469-8870.

Callanwolde Fine Arts Center Callanwolde Clay Guild Show and Sale. Holiday show and sale features original, handmade pottery. For info, 404-874-9351. Dec. 18, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Dec. 19, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Druid Hills Art Studio/Home Gallery Open House. Open house of the “English Cottage studio” of artist Carol Anne Sutherland. View original colored pencil botanical drawings while enjoying tea and cookies. Registration required. Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. & 4-6 p.m.; Dec. 9, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. & 4-6 p.m. $30. Faculty Art Exhibit and Sale. View and purchase works by the Center’s visual and ceramic art instructors. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Dec. 4, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Continues through Dec. 13. 980 Briarcliff Road. 404-872-5338.

The Cohen Home Out of the Box! Handcrafted gift and art sale includes pottery, paintings, jewelry and more. Proceeds benefit the Cohen Home. Sun., Dec. 5, 1-5 p.m. 10485 Jones Bridge Road, Alpharetta. 770-475-8787.

Create Gallery & Design Studio An After Thanksgiving Black & White Affair. Gilbert Young displays his original works. Opening reception on Nov. 27. For info, 404-659-2822. Nov. 27-Jan. 1, 5 p.m. 351 Edgewood Ave. 404-659-2822.

Edgewood Sculpture Building Holiday Iron Pour and Silent Auction Presented by the Edgewood Sculpture Forum, guests can make handmade presents for the holidays, $10 a mold. Sculptural works on sale during the silent auction, proceeds benefit Edgewood Sculpture Forum. For info, 404-651-2257. 184 Edgewood Ave. Sat., Dec. 18, 6 p.m.

Fine Family Art Gallery Yuval Shaul: Works on Paper. Series of Judaica paintings by Israeli artist. Artist reception Dec. 4, 8 p.m. Tue.-Thur., 1-9 p.m.; Sundays, 1-6 p.m. Continues through Dec. 30. Marcus Jewish Community Center, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody. 770-393-2148.

Greenhood & Simoncelli Studio Intown Artists’ Show & Sale. Jewelry, ceramics, weaving, furniture, glass, painting and bath products from ten local and regional artists. For info, 404-875-7175. Dec. 3, 3-9 p.m.; Dec. 4, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1198 Zonolite Road.

Jackson Fine Art Gallery Sparkle. Local and national artists exhibit favorite and classic photographs. Opens Dec. 1. Dec. 1-23. 3115 East Shadowlawn Ave. 404-233-3739.

Krause Gallery Holiday Show. Show and sale of works by Krause Gallery artists, as well as local favorites like Joseph Guay and Kathryn Kolb. Dec. 6, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. & 7-9 p.m.; Dec. 7, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 291 Peters St. SW. 404-522-6205.

Lambert Gallery of Art Heyyyyyyyyy!. Exhibition of traditional figurative works fused with classical and homoerotic overtones. Nov. 18-Dec. 31. 805 Lambert Drive. 404-897-1109.

Mason Murer Fine Art Fall Show. Paintings by T.L. Lange, Linda Mitchell, Oliver Smith and Peter Spivak, and work on metal and paper by Allison Shockley. Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays, 12-5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. 199 Armour Drive. 404-879-1500.

Midtown Artisan Market. Artists’ market with a focus on home-made 2D and 3D art, home decor, jewelry and apparel. Sat., Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 26. Midtown Promenade, 931 Monroe Drive.

MudFire Pottery Center Little Things. Holiday show and sale. Artist reception Dec. 3, 4-10 p.m. Tue.-Fri., 12-10 p.m.; Sat., Sun., 12-8 p.m. Continues through Dec. 24. 1441 Dresden Drive, Suite 250. 404-969-3260.

Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia Off-the-Wall Pin-Up Show and Sale. Non-curated show and sale featuring artists throughout Georgia. www.mocaga.org. Fri., Dec. 3, 6-9 p.m. 1447 Peachtree St. 404-881-1109.

Sandler Hudson Gallery Drawings and Works on Paper. Exhibition of gallery artists’ small drawings. Tue.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 12-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 8. 1009-A Marietta St. 404-817-3300.

Roswell Art Center West Works in Clay Holiday show and sale featuring art by Clay Collective, students, and instructors showcasing a variety of styles and pieces. Opening reception Dec. 2. For info, www.roswell.ga.us/attractions. Dec. 2, 7-9 p.m.; Dec. 3, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Dec. 4, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Dec. 5, 12-4 p.m. Free. 1355 Woodstock Road, Roswell. 770-594-6122.

Solomon Projects Abstract Reality. Works on canvas by Claire Corey. Artist’s talk Dec. 9, 6-8 p.m. Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. 1037 Monroe Drive. 404-875-7100.

The Sportsman’s GalleryNew Works. All new works from the new catalogue on display plus etchings and limited edition prints on sale. For info, www.sportsmansgallery.com. Dec. 1-25. 309 E. Paces Ferry Road, Suite 120. 404-841-0133.

Spruill Gallery 11th Annual Holiday Market. Event offers handmade holiday and year-round gifts from local, national and international artists, with an emphasis on the unique. Opening reception Nov. 29, 7-9 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. 4681 Ashford Dunwoody Road. 770-394-4019.

Studio 106 Artists’ Studio Tour and Sale. Decorative and functional clay works, tablescapes, garden art, jewelry, woven apparel, textile accessories and festive holiday gifts. Dec. 4, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Dec. 5, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Little 5 Points Community Center, 1083 Austin Ave. 404-351-5231.

Thomas Deans & Company, Fine Art Holiday Selections. Original prints, drawings, watercolors, photography and more on sale. Includes works by Beatrix Potter and Pablo Picasso. For info, 404-352-3778. Dec. 3-Jan. 8. 75 Bennett St., TULA Art Center. 404-352-3778.

Vespermann Glass Gallery Winter Glamour. Toland Sand sculptures paired with the glass paperweights, vases, perfume vials and bowls of Rick Ayotte. Original holiday ornaments also on sale. Opening reception Dec. 3. Dec. 3-25, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 309 E. Paces Ferry Road. 404-266-0102.

Vinson Gallery 6th Annual Holiday Show. Paintings, prints and photographs by gallery artists. In conjunction with ‘Terrific Thursdays’ in downtown Decatur. Opening reception Dec. 2, 6-9 p.m. Wed., Thur., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. 119 E. Court Square, #100, Decatur. 404-370-1720.

Young Blood Gallery Fine Craft Show. Find holiday gifts at this show which features glass, quilts, ceramics, wood and metal work. Sat., Dec. 4, 7-11 p.m. 629 Glenwood Ave. 404-627-0393.