More performing arts events 

September

MARY POPPINS Combining original stories by P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film, the Tony Award-winning Mary Poppins, produced by Disney and Cameron Mackintosh, includes song favorites such as "Chim Chim Cher-ee," "A Spoonful of Sugar," "Let's Go Fly a Kite," and "Supercalifragilisticexpialidociousis." Sept. 1-19, times vary. $32.50 and up. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

ROPE Queen City Theatre Company takes on this homoerotic thriller by Patrick Hamilton. In the play, Wyndham Brandon persuades his weak-minded friend Charles Granillo to assist him in the murder of a perfectly harmless man named Ronald Raglan. Directed by Glenn T. Griffin. Sept. 1, 8 p.m.; Sept. 2, 8 p.m.; Sept. 3, 8 p.m.; Sept. 4, 8 p.m. $16-$28. Duke Energy Theatre, 345 N. College St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

THE BUSY WORLD IS HUSHED Presented by The Edge Theatre Company, this production tells the story of a Bible scholar at odds with her faith because of her wayward son. Sept. 9-12. $15-$20. South Pointe Auditorium, 801 Neely Road, Rock Hill. For more info, visit www.theedgetheatre.org.

THE 39 STEPS One of Broadway's longest running comedy thrillers, this play is set in a runaway freight train with four actors playing more than 150 characters. From an original concept by Simon Corble and Nobby Dimon; from the novel by John Buchan and the film by Alfred Hitchcock; Adapted by Patrick Barlow. Sept. 10-Oct. 2, times vary. $10-$15 during previews on Sept. 10-11; pay what you can night on Sept. 29; $24-$31 for all other shows. Actor's Theatre of Charlotte, 650 E. Stonewall St. 704-342-2251. www.actorstheatrecharlotte.org.

ANNIE This popular musical, based on the book by Thomas Meehan, tells the story of an orphan named Annie. Desperate to find her parents who abandoned her at a NYC orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan, Annie goes on numerous adventures. Sept. 10-26, times vary. $8-$24. Theatre Charlotte, 501 Queens Road. 704-376-3777. www.theatrecharlotte.org.

TRAINSPOTTING Harry Gibson's adaptation of the novel by Irvine Welsh. Mark Renton and his "so- called" mates travel to the drug-infested streets of Edinburgh. Presented by Citizens of the Universe. Sept. 15-18, Sept. 22-25. $10. Story Slam, 1401 Central Ave., Suite 103. www.citizensoftheuniverse.org.

STEAMBATH CAST introduces its new season with Bruce Jay Friedman's Steambath. Sept. 16-Oct 16. Carolina Actors Studio Theatre (CAST), 1118 Clement Ave., Charlotte. 704-455-8542. www.nccast.com.

AIN'T MISBEHAVIN' The show, based on the music of Fats Waller, relives the era of the Harlem Renaissance with a playful evening of songs. Five performers present their interpretation of what it means to swing. Music provided by Sign of the Times band, with direction by Jermaine Nakia Lee. Sept. 22-Oct. 2, times vary. $22. Duke Energy Theatre, 345 N. College St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE This comedic play celebrates the mating game and takes on the contemporary conundrum known as "the relationship." Held in Pease Auditorium. Sept. 24, 8 p.m.; Sept. 25, 8 p.m.; Sept. 26, 8 p.m.; Oct. 1, 8 p.m.; Oct. 2, 8 p.m.; Oct. 3, 2:30 p.m. $16. Pease Auditorium, CPCC, 1201 Elizabeth Ave. 704-330-6534.

ENDURING LOVE Tells the story of two young people in love, whose hearts are ripped apart during 1840s famine era in Ireland. Performed through music, song, drama and Irish dancing. Sept. 24, 7 p.m.; Sept. 25, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. $29-$44. Booth Playhouse, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

ALADDIN Children's Theatre of Charlotte presents this Disney classic about the adventures of Aladdin, the Princess Jasmine and a magical genie. Award-winning songs like "A Whole New World" and "Friend Like Me" will be performed. For ages 6 and up. Held in McColl Family Theatre. Sept. 24-Oct. 24. $24-$18. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. www.imaginon.org.

THE YELLOW BOAT This play follows the struggles of a man named Benjamin as he battles terminal illness. Diagnosed with both hemophilia and AIDS, the story takes viewers through cycles of pain and happiness and the ultimate strength of the human spirit. Held in Johnson Studio Theatre. Sept. 29-Oct. 2, 8 p.m.; Oct. 3, 2 p.m. $8-$15. Winthrop University, 124 McLaurin Hall, Rock Hill, S.C. 803-323-2493. www2.winthrop.edu/arts.

October

WORLD OF JEWTOPIA Written by Bryan Fogel and Sam Wolfson, this comedy tells the story of two 30-year-old single men. One of them wants to marry a Jewish girl, so he'll never have to make another decision. The other, who can't get a date, wants to marry a Jewish girl to please his family. When the two make a pact to help each other find the girl of their dreams, the adventures begin. Oct. 1, 8 p.m.; Oct. 2, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Oct. 3, 2 p.m. $29.50 and up. Booth Playhouse, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL This new musical comedy, direct from Broadway, is based on the hit movie and tells the story of three friends who conspire to take control of their company and succeed. Oct. 5, 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 6, 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 7, 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 8, 8 p.m.; Oct. 9, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Oct. 10, 1:30 p.m. & 7 p.m. $20 and up. Ovens Auditorium, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

NOCTURNE Adam Rapp's highly acclaimed play tells the story of a family torn apart after a tragic accident, as recounted by a young former piano prodigy. Presented by Lab Theater. Oct. 6-9, 8 p.m.; Oct. 10, 2 p.m.; Oct. 13-16, 8 p.m.; Oct. 15, 2 p.m. $6-$9. UNC-Charlotte, Robinson Hall, 704-687-3315. www.coaa.uncc.edu.

LYSISTRATA: A WOMAN'S TRANSLATION Adapted from Aristophanes by Drue Robinson. As war breaks out in ancient Greece, Lysistrata leads a band of women in denying their husbands sex until the fighting has stopped. Men begin to retaliate and a real "battle of the sexes" begins. Adult language and content. Held in Johnson Theatre. Oct. 6-9, 8 p.m.; Oct. 10, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. Winthrop University, 124 McLaurin Hall, Rock Hill, S.C. 803-323-2493. www2.winthrop.edu/arts.

REEFER MADNESS: THE MUSICAL Inspired by the original 1936 film of the same name, this raucous musical comedy takes a tongue-in-cheek look at the hysteria caused when clean-cut kids fall prey to marijuana and are led on a hysterical downward spiral filled with jazz music, sex and violence. Presented by Queen City Theatre Company. Oct. 8-23, times vary $16-$28. Duke Energy Theatre, 345 N. College St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

DRACULA A ballet worth sinking your teeth into. Mark Godden's Dracula is complete with bats, transformations and dancing. Presented by North Carolina Dance Theatre. Oct. 8, 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 9, 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 14, 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 15, 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 16, 7:30 p.m. Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK This adaptation by Wendy Kesselman features newly discovered writings from the diary of Anne Frank, as well as survivor accounts, which are interwoven to tell the tragic stories the persecuted under Nazi rule. Presented by Matthews Playhouse. Oct. 8-24, times vary. Matthews Community Center, 100 McDowell St., Matthews. 704-846-8343. www.matthewsplayhouse.com.

BASIC TRAINING Kahlil Ashanti returns for performances of a show that chronicles his time in the U.S. Air Force, where he was a member of the Force's elite entertainment troupe Tops in Blue. Playing 23 unforgettable characters, Ashanti is funny and serious, as he tells the story of his duties serving the country and those of his personal family quests. Adult content and language. Oct. 12-24, times vary. $20 and up. Stage Door Theater, North College Street at 5th Street, Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

A DARK NIGHT WITH EDGAR ALLEN POE Arranged by James Cartee. After accidentally crossing the stage, Edgar Poe's ghost enlightens audiences with a few of his tales and poetry. Presented by Citizens of the Universe. Oct. 13-16. Story Slam, 1401 Central Ave., Suite 103. For more info, visit www.citizensoftheuniverse.org.

TRICK 'R TREAT Halloween escapade choreographed by Mark Diamond. Young patrons are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes. Presented by North Carolina Dance Theatre. Oct. 16, 2 p.m.; Oct. 17, 2 p.m. $66 and up. Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

COSI FAN TUTTE (THE SCHOOL FOR LOVERS) Mozart's hilarious comedy takes the art of romance to new flirtatious new levels. Presented by Opera Carolina. Oct. 16, 8 p.m.; Oct. 17, 2 p.m.; Oct. 21, 7:30 p.m. $20 and up. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

A DARK NIGHT WITH EDGAR ALLEN POE Arranged by James Cartee. After accidentally crossing the stage, Edgar Poe's ghost enlightens audiences with a few of his tales and poetry. Presented by Center of the Universe. Oct. 20-23. Old Settlers Cemetery, 200 W. Trade St.

BECKY'S NEW CAR This new comedy by author Steven Dietz (author of Yankee Tavern) follows a woman caught in a midlife crisis. As her double life spins out of control, laughs are in order. Oct. 22, 23, Oct. 27-Nov. 13, times vary. $10-$15 for previews on Oct. 22 & 23; pay what you can night on Nov. 3; $24-$31 for all other shows. Actor's Theatre of Charlotte, 650 E. Stonewall St. 704-342-2251. www.actorstheatrecharlotte.org.

TWO ROOMS When a woman's husband is held hostage by radicals in Beirut, she finds herself struggling with her own emotions, a foreign government, the media and injustice. Play is written by Lee Blessing. Contains adult content. Held in Johnson Studio Theatre. Oct. 27, 8 p.m.; Oct. 28, 8 p.m.; Oct. 29, 8 p.m.; Oct. 30, 8 p.m.; Oct. 31, 2 p.m. $5-$15. Winthrop University, 124 McLaurin Hall, Rock Hill. 803-323-2493. www2.winthrop.edu/arts.

THE LONDON BROIL SHOW Three Renaissance Festival men (Duncan Pace, Matt Connolly and Louis Skaradek) join forces for non-stop comedy, which includes the juggling of objects, a touch of fire and other surprises. Oct. 27-29, 8 p.m.; Nov. 17-19, 8 p.m. $20. Duke Energy Theatre, 345 N. College St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE New adaptation of the classic tale by author Jane Austen. Adapted for the stage by Joseph Hanreddy and J.R. Sullivan. Directed by Ann Marie Costa. Oct. 27-31, times vary. $6-$15. Duke Family Performance Hall, Davidson College, 207 Faculty Drive, Davidson. 704-894-2361.

THE ELEPHANT MAN This drama, by Bernard Pomerance, tells the famous true story of Joseph (John) Merrick, a Victorian surgeon who rescues a disfigured man making his living as a side-show freak. Oct. 28-Nov. 21. Carolina Actors Studio Theatre (CAST), 1118 Clement Ave. 704-455-8542. www.nccast.com.

STEEL MAGNOLIAS This popular play by Robert Harling that's set in a beauty salon is filled with eccentric characters and gossipy dialogue. Recommended for ages 13 years old and up. Oct. 29-Nov. 14, times vary. $8-$24. Theatre Charlotte, 501 Queens Road. 704-376-3777. www.theatrecharlotte.org.

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW Kitschy rock 'n' roll sci-fi gothic feature, complete with audience participation props. Presented by The Edge Theatre Company. Oct. 28, 8 p.m.; Oct. 29, 8 p.m.; Oct. 30, 11:30 p.m.; Oct. 31, 2 p.m. $15-$20. South Pointe Auditorium, 801 Neely Road, Rock Hill. For more info, visit www.theedgetheatre.org.

THE COMMEDIA PRINCESS AND THE PEA Special one day engagement. In this funny, fast-paced show, the Tarradiddle Players put their own spin on Hans Christian Andersen's classic fairy tale. For ages 5 and up. For more information, visit www.ctcharlotte.org. Oct. 30. $14-$18. Wachovia Playhouse, 300 E. 7th St.

November

REDUCED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY: THE COMPLETE WORLD OF SPORTS (ABRIDGED) Championship comedy that sprints through the world of sports at record-breaking speed. From the earliest cavemen playing "Neanderthal in the Middle" to kid's soccer practice, this show explores and picks fun at all things sports related. Nov. 2, 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 3, 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 4, 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 5, 8 p.m.; Nov. 6, 8 p.m.; Nov. 7, 3 p.m. $20 and up. Booth Playhouse, 130 N. Tryon St, 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

THE LION IN WINTER This play tells the story of a dying king who must choose which of his three sons will rule after his death. Sharing conflicting favors with his wife, the suspense is heavy on which head the crown will fall upon. Nov. 5, 8 p.m.; Nov. 6, 8 p.m.; Nov. 7, 2:30 p.m.; Nov. 12, 8 p.m.; Nov. 13, 8 p.m.; Nov. 14, 2:30 p.m. $16. Pease Auditorium, CPCC, 1200 Elizabeth Ave. 704-330-6534. http://arts.cpcc.edu.

TEENY TINY TALES Compiled and performed by the Tarradiddle Players. Designed for preschoolers, this show introduces children to the world of theater in an engaging, interactive experience. Nursery rhyme favorites, like "Little Miss Muffett" and "Hey Diddle Diddle" will be performed, along with dance-along songs like "If You're Happy and You Know It" and "The Hokey Pokey." For ages 3-5 years old. Nov. 6-7. $10-$12. Wachovia Playhouse, 300 E. 7th St. For more info, visit www.ctcharlotte.org.

MISS NELSON IS MISSING From spitballs to flying paper airplanes, Miss Nelson's class is full of disorder. But when the students find their teacher replaced by a scary substitute, they learn to appreciate and respect Nelson. Musical based off of the book. Nov. 5, 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 6, 2 p.m.; Nov. 7, 2 p.m.; Nov. 12, 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 13, 2 p.m.; Nov. 14, 2 p.m. $9-$10. Matthews Community Center, 100 McDowell St., Matthews. 704-846-8343. www.matthewsplayhouse.com.

DREAMGIRLS This show tells the story of the 1960s singing girl sensation, including the triumphs and tribulations that come with their fame and fortune. Music includes unforgettable hits like "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going," "One Night Only" and "Listen." Nov. 9, 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 10, 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 11, 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 12, 8 p.m.; Nov. 13, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Nov. 14, 1 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

WINTHROP DANCE THEATRE The concert features an array of innovative dances choreographed by faculty, guest artists and alumni. Held in Johnson Theatre. Nov. 10, 8 p.m.; Nov. 11, 8 p.m.; Nov. 12, 8 p.m.; Nov. 13, 8 p.m.; Nov. 14, 2 p.m. $8-$15. Winthrop University, 124 McLaurin Hall, Rock Hill. 803-323-2493. www2.winthrop.edu/vpa/galleries/10_Spr_season.htm.

INNOVATIVE WORKS This year contemporary choreography meets themes of conservation, pollution, waste and the environment. Based on the Green Pieces performances in New York, this show features works by choreographers Mark Diamond, David Ingram, Sasha Janes and Dwight Rhoden. Nov. 11, 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 12, 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 13, 7:30 p.m. $66 and up. Knight Theater, 430 S. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

INDIA SONG Set during the European colonial era, when white colonists took refuge from poverty, disease and starvation among the native population, this play tells the tragic love story of Anne-Marie Stretter, wife of the French ambassador to India. By Marguerite Duras. Held in Anne R. Belk Theater at Robinson Hall. Nov. 17-20, 8 p.m.; Nov. 21, 2 p.m. $6-$14. UNC-Charlotte, Charlotte. 704-687-3315. www.coaa.uncc.edu.

GALILEO One man's struggle for truth amidst ignorance and persecution forms the heart of this masterpiece by Bertolt Brecht. Directed by Jack Beasley. Held in The Barber Theatre. For tickets and reservations, call 704-894-2135 or visit www.davidson.edu/tickets. Nov. 17-21. Davidson College.

FALL ONE-ACT FESTIVAL Features a lively mixture of one-act plays directed by advanced theater students. Contains adult language and content. Held in Johnson Studio Theatre. Nov. 19, 8 p.m.; Nov. 20, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Nov. 21, 2 p.m. Winthrop University, 124 McLaurin Hall, Rock Hill. 803-323-2493. www2.winthrop.edu/arts.

24-HOUR PLAY PROJECT Playwrights, directors, designers, technicians, and actors have only 24 hours to produce original works for this show. Sat., Nov. 20, 8 p.m. $5. South Pointe Auditorium, 801 Neely Road, Rock Hill. For more info visit www.theedgetheatre.org.

BILLY JONAS Composer, songsmith, and multi-instrumentalist Billy Jonas to perform original songs, stories, and improvisations with voice, guitar, and "Industrial Re-percussion" — a collection of instruments he made from found, foraged and recycled objects. For ages 5 years old and up. Best enjoyed by elementary school ages. Held in McColl Family Theatre. Nov. 20-21. $12-$14. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St., Charlotte. www.imaginon.org.

HOME This 1980 Tony Award nominated play, written by North Carolina Native, Samm-Art Williams, follows the many trials and tribulations of an ordinary man named Cephus Miles. Presented by On Q Productions. Nov. 26, 8 p.m.; Nov. 27, 8 p.m.; Nov. 28, 3 p.m.; Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 3, 8 p.m.; Dec. 4, 8 p.m.; Dec. 5, 3 p.m. Duke Energy Theatre, 345 North College St., Charlotte. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

MESSIAH ROCKS Merges classical music with classic rock for a contemporary take on George Fredrick Handel's most performed oratorio. Nov. 29, 7:30 p.m. $29.50 and up. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St., 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

MY MOTHER'S ITALIAN, MY FATHER'S JEWISH & I'M HOME FROM THE HOLIDAYS Steve recalls his struggle to survive the holidays with his dysfunctional family members in this hilarious show. Nov. 30, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 3, 8 p.m.; Dec. 4, 8 p.m.; Dec. 5, 3 p.m. $29.50. Booth Playhouse, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

December

TITLE OF SHOW When two struggling writers hear about a new musical theater festival at the last minute, they decide to participate. In 90 minutes they write and perform their show at the festival and learn valuable lessons from other artists. Presented by The Edge Theatre Company. Dec. 2, 8 p.m.; Dec. 3, 8 p.m.; Dec. 4, 8 p.m.; Dec. 5, 2 p.m. $15-$20. South Pointe Auditorium, 801 Neely Road, Rock Hill. For more info, visit www.theedgetheatre.org.

SENIOR CHOREOGRAPHY SHOWCASE Featuring dance works choreographed by senior dance majors and including a variety of styles, such as modern, jazz, hip-hop, ballet and more. Held in Johnson Theatre. Dec. 3, 8 p.m.; Dec. 4, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. Winthrop University, 124 McLaurin Hall, Rock Hill. 803-323-2493.

SCROOGE Based on A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Musical based on the gruesome character Ebenezer Scrooge, who is payed a visit by three Christmas spirits that change him for the better. For ages 7 years old and up. Best enjoyed by elementary, middle and high school ages. Held in McColl Family Theatre. Dec. 3-23. $18-$24. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St., Charlotte. www.imaginon.org.

NUTCRACKER Charlotte Youth Ballet presents performances of the holiday classic. Dec. 3, 9:30 a.m.,11:30 a.m. & 7 p.m.; Dec. 4, 1:30 p.m. & 5:30 p.m.; Dec. 5, 2:30 p.m. $12-$25. CPCC's Halton Theater, 1201 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte. 704-330-6534. http://arts.cpcc.edu.

THE LITTLEST ANGEL Performed by the Tarradiddle Players. This play follows a little angels journey into heaven and struggle to adapt and obey a new set of rules. Held in Wachovia Theatre. Dec. 3-23. $14-$18. ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. www.imaginon.org.

EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD With just three actors, a very tipsy Santa and some audience participation classic holiday stories, carols and TV specials are crammed together for an evening of seasonal cheer. By Michael Carleton, Jim Fitzgerald and John K. Alvarez, with original music by Will Knapp. Dec. 1-18, times vary. $24-$31; Pay what you can night on Dec. 8. Actor's Theatre of Charlotte, 650 E. Stonewall St. 704-342-2251. www.actorstheatrecharlotte.org.

A CHRISTMAS STORY Based on the motion picture, A Christmas Story, written by Jean Shepherd, Leigh Brown and Bob Clark and on the book In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash by Jean Shepherd. Presented by Davidson Community Players. Dec. 2, 8 p.m.; Dec. 4, 4 p.m.; Dec. 5, 2 p.m.; Dec. 9, 8 p.m.; Dec. 10, 8 p.m.; Dec. 11, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Dec. 12, 2 p.m.; Dec. 15, 8 p.m.; Dec. 16, 8 p.m.; Dec. 17, 8 p.m.; Dec. 18, 8 p.m.; Dec. 19, 2 p.m. $15-$18. Armour Street Theatre, 307 Armour St., Davidson.

WHITE CHRISTMAS Irving Berlin musical direct from broadway. Tells the story of two showbiz buddies who perform in a magical Vermont inn and find their ideal mates in the process. Dec. 7, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 8, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 9, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 10, 8 p.m.; Dec. 11, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Dec. 12, 1:30 p.m. & 7 p.m. Ovens Auditorium, 2700 E. Independence Blvd, 704-372-3600. www.ovensauditorium.com.

THE DAY THEY SHOT JOHN LENNON This play, by James McClure, is comprised of interwoven stories of New Yorkers that gather to pay tribute to John Lennon after he was shot to death. Dec. 9-18. Carolina Actors Studio Theatre (CAST), 1118 Clement Ave. 704-455-8542. www.nccast.com.

NUTCRACKER The holiday classic, choreographed by Artistic Director Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux, follows the young Clara who receives a magical Nutcracker doll from her mysterious uncle. As the nutcracker comes alive, Clara embarks on a journey to an enchanting land of snow and sweets. Presented by North Carolina Dance Theatre. Dec. 10, 7 p.m.; Dec. 11, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.; Dec. 12, 2 p.m.; Dec. 17, 7 p.m.; Dec. 18, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.; Dec. 19, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL Adapted by John Jakes from the novel by Charles Dickens. The grumpy Scrooge is visited by Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Future, which opens his heart experiencing holiday joy. Dec. 10, 7 p.m.; Dec. 11, 2:30 p.m. & 7 p.m.; Dec. 12, 2:30 p.m.; Dec. 16, 7 p.m.; Dec. 17, 7 p.m.; Dec. 18, 2:30 p.m. & 7 p.m.; Dec. 19, 2:30 p.m. $7-$20. Theatre Charlotte, 501 Queens Road. 704-376-3777. www.theatrecharlotte.org.