Entertainment Calendar

What to do in the county, the region and Chicago

ART

McHenry County

ART THAT FLOORS YOU, Exceed Flooring, 5186 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake, 815-459-3113. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. Schedule: through Nov. 14, A special exhibit featuring large-scale artwork created by local, professional artists.

LAKESIDE LEGACY ARTS PARK, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake, 815-455-8000 or www.lakesidelegacy.org. Gallery hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Schedule: through Nov. 30, Pilgrimage and Passages, a Spiritual Journey exhibit in the Sage Gallery of original oil paintings by Jeanine Hill-Soldner, with a 6:30 to 9 p.m. Nov. 7 artist reception.

McHENRY COUNTY COLLEGE ART GALLERIES, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake, 815-455-8785. Schedule: through Dec. 5, Beth Shadur Mixed Media, in Gallery One; through Dec. 15, Kim Vorel Metals, in Gallery Two.

NORTHLAND AREA ART LEAGUE, Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. Meetings at 7 to 9 p.m. second Tuesdays, September through April, at the Opera House. New members welcome. Information: President, Joe Bjork, 815-337-2027.

OLD COURT HOUSE ARTS CENTER, 101 N. Johnson St., Woodstock, 815-338-4525 or www.oldcourthouseartscenter.com. Gallery hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Featuring a variety of artwork in permanent and traveling exhibits.

VALLEY ART CLUB, Dole Mansion (lower level), 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Featuring Life Drawing Workshops 7 to 10 p.m. second and fourth Tuesdays to Dec. 9. Nightly fee required. Information: 847-426-8532.

Regional

BARRINGTON/NORTHWEST COMMUNITY ASSOCIATES OF THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO, 847-358-3011. Schedule: Nov. 14, trip to the Art Institute of Chicago for a lecture by John Himmelfarb on “John Himmelfarb: The Elephant in the Basement.” Cost: $75 (members only) includes transportation, lecture and lunch at Bistro 110. Information: Virginia Tolk, 847-358-3011.

ILLINOIS INSTITUTE OF ART SCHAUMBURG, Ruth Ray Memorial Gallery, 1000 Plaza Drive, Schaumburg, 847-619-3450 or www.artinstitutes.edu/schaumburg. Gallery hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Schedule: through Nov. 14, Perceived Presence exhibition by Sergio Gomez; through Dec. 5, African Impressions exhibition by Jason Kehrer, with a 2 to 3 p.m. Nov. 12 opening reception and 3 to 4 p.m. lecture by Mr. Kehrer.

NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY ART MUSEUM, Altgeld Hall 116, College & Castle drives, DeKalb, 815-753-1936 or www.niu.edu/artmuseum. Gallery hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. Schedule: through Dec. 6, Maley/Hand: Journey Toward Healing, with a 2 to 3 p.m. Nov. 8 gallery talk (Art Hand is a photography instructor at McHenry County College); through Dec. 6, Common Ground: A Selection of Contemporary Illinois Ceramics.

OCTANE INTERLOUNGE, 124 N. Main St., Rockford, 815-965-4012. Schedule: through Nov. 22, Deck Envy featuring the skateboard graphics, paintings and collages of Keith Grace and Cole Grace in conjunction with ArtScene. For information call the Rockford Area Arts Council: 815-963-6765 or visit www.fallartscene.com.

Chicago

2ND FRIDAYS GALLERY NIGHT, 6 to 10 p.m. second Fridays, featuring a myriad of works shown in 35 galleries in the Chicago Arts District surrounding South Halsted and 18th streets, Chicago. Free. Gallery listing, location map and information: 312-377-4444 or www.chicagoartsdistrict.org.

ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO, 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-443-3600 or visit www.artic.edu. Hours: Memorial Day-Labor Day: 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday (with free admission after 5 p.m.), 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Target Free Thursdays 5 to 8 p.m. Admission: $12 adults; $7 for students and seniors, free for children 12 and younger. Special exhibitions may require extra admission fee. Schedule: through Jan. 4, 2009, The Divine Art, Four Centuries of European Tapestries.

CHICAGO CULTURAL CENTER, 78 E. Washington St., Chicago, 312-742-1148, www.egov.cityofchicago.org. Schedule: through Dec. 28, Gauri Gill: The Americans, at Michigan Avenue Galleries; through Dec. 31, Hidden Treasures: The Lane Tech Murals, at Chicago Rooms; through Jan. 4, Deceptive Design: Experiments in Furniture, at Michigan Avenue Galleries; through Jan. 4, Made in Chciago: Photographs from the Bank of America LaSalle Collection, at Exhibit Hall.

EFFE LEVEN GALLERY, 213 W. Institute Place, Fourth Floor, Chicago, 312-643-5444 or www.effelevengallery.com. Schedule: Nov. 8-14, Solo Exhibit in Gallery B Room by Gabriel Karagianis, of Woodstock, with a 6 to 9 p.m. Nov. 8 reception.

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART, 220 E. Chicago Ave., 312-280-2660 or www.mcachicago.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Closed Mondays, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s day. Target free Tuesdays. Admission: $10 adults, $6 students and seniors, free for children 12 and younger, members of the military and museum members.

NAVY PIER, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Schedule: 8 to 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Nov. 7-8, noon to 6 p.m. Nov. 9, Sculptural Objects Functional Art (SOFA) exhibit featuring the work of five leading galleries of Canada. Information: 800-563-7632 or www.sofaexpo.com.

RIVER EAST ART CENTER, 435 E. Illinois St., Chicago, 312-321-1001 or www.rivereastartcenter.com. Schedule: through Nov. 22, Project 465 Art Classes in drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpting, metals, jewelry, textiles, printmaking and 3D mixed media.

ARTS, CRAFTS & COLLECTIBLES

Kane County

ART & CRAFT SHOW, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 15, VFW Post 2298, 117 S. First St., West Dundee. Host: Ladies Auxiliary of Tri-City Evergreen VFW Post 2298. Information: 847-426-2205.

ST. THOMAS MORE HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR & BAKE SALE, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 8, 1625 W. Highland Ave., Elgin. Juried event featuring more than 80 booths, raffles, food, refreshments, bake sale. Free admission. Information: (847) 888-4363.

McHenry County

CRAFT BAZAAR, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 15, Prince of Peace Church, 932 McHenry Ave., Crystal Lake. Multiple vendors featuring wood carvings, candles, holiday items, jewelry, handbags, cookie walk and more. Information: 815-455-3200.

FALL INTO THE HOLIDAYS, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 8, Cary United Methodist Church, 500 First St., Cary. Craft bazaar. Information: 847-639-7627.

GLOBAL GIFT SHOP, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Nov. 16, Ridgefield-Crystal Lake Presbyterian Church, 8505 Church St., Crystal Lake. Mission Outreach Ministry will sponsor a fair trade gift shop. Ten Thousand Villages from Grayslake will bring home decor, personal accessories and gift items handcrafted by artisans from around the world. Information: 815-459-1132.

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS CRAFT & VENDOR FAIR, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 8, First United Methodist Church, 3717 W. Main St., McHenry. Also featuring a gift raffle to benefit charity, bake sale. Lunch and refreshments available. Free admission. Information: 815-385-0931.

HOLIDAY VENDOR FAIR FUNDRAISER, third annual, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 15, Cary United Methodist Church, 500 First St., Cary. Featuring some well-known vendors for a fun shopping event. Free admission. Information: 847-322-5225.

SETON CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY BAZAAsR, 29th annual, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 22, Crystal Lake South High School, 1200 McHenry Ave., Crystal Lake. Featuring more than 75 juried crafters, three raffles, bake sale, candy sale and food court. Sponsor: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Women’s Group. Admission: $1. Information: 815-477-9258.

ST. JOHN’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY BAZAAR & CRAFT SHOW, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 15 & 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 16, St. John’s Catholic Church, 2302 W. Church St., Johnsburg. Featuring many new crafters, baked goods, raffle prizes and light lunch cafe. Free admission. Sponsor: Blessed Virgin Mary Sodality. Information: 815-385-1477.

Regional

ANNUAL HOLIDAY BAZAAR, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 16, Congregational Am Echod, 2945 Falling Waters Blvd., Lindenhurst. Jewelry, custom napkins, personalized stationery, candles and more. Information: 847-265-1818.

HOLIDAY CRAFT BAZAAR, fourth annual, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 8, Gavin Central School, 36414 N. Ridge Road, Ingleside. Featuring  more than 50 vendors, raffle table, children’s arts and crafts, concessions. Sponsor: Gavin School District PTA. Information: 847-740-1266 or www.gavinpta.org.

Chicago

MODERN VINTAGE HOLIDAY MARKET, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov.  22 & noon to 5 p.m. Nov. 23, Lincoln Park, 2301 N. Clark St., Chicago. Featuring jewelry, fashions, art, decorative objects, housewares, vintage ornaments, edibles and more. Admission: $10 and features a shopping voucher and complimentary gift wrapping on all purchases. Information: 312-666-1200 or www.modernvintagechicago.com.

AUDITIONS

McHenry County

TOWNSQUARE PLAYERS, community theatre company seeking positions of producer, artistic/vocal director and choreographer for its upcoming production of the off-Broadway musical “The Musical of Musicals (The Musical!)” Performance dates: March 6-22, 2009, at the Woodstock Opera House. For job descriptions, visit www.tspinc.org. Interested individuals may e-mail a letter of interest or resume to: resume@tspinc.org by Nov. 12.

Regional

CHORAL-AIRES CHORUS, 7 to 10 p.m. Mondays through Dec. 8, Elmhurst Presbyterian Church, 367 Spring Road, Elmhurst. Women of all ages who love to sing are invited to join the group for a series of guest nights to prepare for the group’s Dec. 13 Christmas show, “Let There be Peace on Earth.” Information: 630-665-8387 or www.choral-aires.org.

VILLAGE PLAYERS THEATER FOR YOUTH, 6 to 9 p.m. Nov. 12, Oak Park. Looking for singeractors with strong operatic vocal technique and dancer/singers with strong lyrical/ballet training for its fifth annual production of Humperdinck’s opera, “Hansel and Gretel.” Appointments and information: 708-574-8179 or www.myspace.comtheaterforyouth.

COMEDY

Kane County

COMEDYCOMEDY AT WALTER PAYTON’S ROUNDHOUSE COMPLEX, 205 N. Broadway Ave., Aurora, 630-906-2277 or www.walterpaytonsroundhouse.com. Live stand-up comedy. Showtimes: 8:30 p.m. Thursday & Friday, 8 p.m. Saturday. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission: $15 for ages 21 and older. Reservations recommended. No drink minimum.

FRANK CALIENDO, 8 p.m. Nov. 15, Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. High-energy act combining a blend of observations, impressions, characters and anecdotal stories. Tickets: $45.50, $55.50, $65.50 at 630-986-6666 or www.theparamounttheatre.com.

ZANIES-PHEASANT RUN RESORT, on North Avenue, St. Charles, 630-513-1761 or www.zanies.com. Showtimes: 8 p.m. Wednesday & Thursday; 8 and 9:45 p.m. Friday; 7:30 and 9:45 p.m. Saturday. All shows require a two-item food/beverage minimum. Schedule: Nov. 7-8, Karen Rontowski; Nov. 12, Back On The “Meet” Market; Nov. 13, Jerry Kidders from WLS Radio; Nov. 14, Jeffrey Ross; Nov. 15, Dan Chopin; Nov. 19-20 & 22, John Caponera.

Regional

CHICAGO IMPROV, 5 Woodfield Road, Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 847-240-2001 or www.symfonee.com/improv/chicago. Showtimes: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 8 & 10:15 p.m. Friday, 7 & 9:15 p.m. Saturday, 7 p.m. Sunday. Schedule: Nov. 7-9, Jimmy Fallon (tickets $32); Nov. 13-16, Steve Trevino (tickets $17);

COMEDY CAVE, at Fat Man Bowl, 13860 Rockland Road (east of Interstate 294 on Route 176), Lake Bluff. Featuring improv comedy every Wednesday night with a 7 p.m. family show and 9 p.m. adult show. Admission: $10 adults at the door, $7 seniors, students and military. Information: 847-968-4529; 847-362-1623 or www.improvplayhouse.com.

IMPROV PLAYHOUSE, Black Box Theater, 735 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville, 847-968-4529 or www.improvplayhouse.com. Improv Smackdown 8 to 9 p.m. every Saturday with a different IP Smackmaster hosting and audience rating the performers. General admission: $8 adults, $5 students.

 BOB NEWHART, 8 p.m. Nov. 22, Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Tickets: $37.50-$65 at 312-559-1212, any Ticketmaster location or www.ticketmaster.com.

ZANIES-VERNON HILLS, 230 Hawthorn Village Commons, 847-549-6030 or www.zanies.com. Showtimes: 8 p.m. Thursday; 8 and 9:45 p.m. Friday, 7 & 9:30 p.m. Saturday. Schedule: Nov. 7-8, Craig Gass; Nov. 13, Prescott Tolk; Nov. 14, Dan Chopin; Nov. 15, Jeffrey Ross; Nov. 20, Patti Vasquez.

Chicago

BLUE MAN GROUP, Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted St., Chicago, 773-348-4000. Daily performances. Performance times vary and subject to change. Tickets: $49-$64. Tickets and information: 312-902-1500 or www.ticketmaster.com.

COMEDYSPORTZ, Studio Playhouse at The Chicago Center for the Performing Arts, 777 N. Green St., Chicago, 312-733-6000 or www.comedysportzchicago.com. Improv comedy for all ages. 8 p.m. Friday; 6, 8 & 10 p.m. Saturday; 8 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $19.

THE SECOND CITY, 1616 N. Wells St., 312-337-3992 or www.secondcity.com. Schedule: 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 8 & 11 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 7 p.m. Sunday, No Country for Old White Men (Mainstage). Tickets: $19 Tuesday through Thursday & Sunday, $25 Friday & Saturday.

ZANIES-CHICAGO, 1548 N. Wells in Old Town, 312-337-4027 or www.zanies.com. Showtimes: 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday & Sunday; 8:30 & 10:30 p.m. Friday; 7, 9, & 11:15 p.m. Saturday. All shows require a two-item food/beverage minimum. Schedule: Nov. 7-9, Brett Ernst; Nov. 11-12, Hannibal; Nov. 13, Jeffrey Ross; Nov. 14-15, Eddie Brill; Nov. 16, Letterman Showcase; Nov. 18-19 & 21-23, Tim Walkoe; Nov. 20, David Brenner.

DANCE

Kane County

SUGAR SQUARES DANCE CLUB, Kaneville Community Center, 2S101 Harter Road, Kaneville. Featuring modern square dancing lessons 7 p.m. Sundays. Couples, singles and teenagers all invited. Cost: $40 a person for 10 weeks of lessons. Registration and information: 815-286-9702 or 630-377-3695.

McHenry County

B AND B SQUARE DANCE CLUB, Johnsburg Community Club, 2315 W. Church St., Johnsburg. Dances first and third Friday of every month. Rounds begin at 8 p.m., squares at 8:30 p.m. Cost: $4.50 members, $5 visitors. Information: 815-728-1026 or 847-395-1108.

DANCE! with Frank & Jackie Penze, ballroom, Latin and swing dance instructors, 847-639-8699. Cary Park District: 12:45-2:15 p.m. to Dec. 7, Beginning Swing, Waltz, Salsa, Merengue; 2:30-4 p.m. Intermediate Swing, Waltz, Salsa, Merengue; 4-5:30 p.m. Advanced Waltz, Rumba, Samba, Peabody (Quick Step), Single Time Swing, at Cary Park District Center, 255 Briargate Road. Cost: $87 resident couple, $96 non-resident, 847-639-6100. Crystal Lake Park District: 7-8:15 p.m. or 8:15-9:30 p.m. to Dec. 10, Beginning Cha Cha, Waltz, Fox Trot, Rumba, more Swing, at Rotary Building, Veteran Acres Park, 131 N. Walkup. $99 couple resident, $149 couple non-resident. Call 815-459-0680 or www.crystallakeparks.org. Crystal Lake Park District: 7-8:15 p.m. to Dec. 11, Advanced Samba, Double Time Swing, Fox Trot, Rumba; 8:15 to 9:30 p.m. Intermediate Samba, Fox Trot, more East Coast Swing, Rumba, at Rotary Building, Veteran Acres Park, 131 N. Walkup. $99 couple resident, $149 couple non-resident. Call 815-459-0680 or www.crystallakeparks.org. Health Bridge Fitness Center: 8-9:30 p.m. to Dec. 8, Beginning Swing, Salsa & more, at Aerobics Studio of Crystal Lake, 200 E. Congress Pkwy., Crystal Lake. Cost: $60 members, $85 non-members. Call 815-788-2266 or www.healthbridgefitness.com. Lake in the Hills Parks & Recreation Department: 6:30-7:30 p.m. to Dec. 12, Beginning Swing, Cha Cha, Fox Trot, Tango; 7:30-8:30 p.m. Intermediate Double Time Swing, Fox Trot, Cha Cha, Rumba ($65 resident, $75 non-resident); 8:30-10 p.m. Advanced Double Time Swing, Fox Trot, Cha Cha, Argentine Tango ($92 resident, $102 non-resident), at LaBahn-Hain House, 149 Hilltop Drive. Call 847-960-7460. Lake Villa: 7 to 8 p.m. or 9 to 10 p.m. to Dec. 9, Beginning Swing, Waltz, Cha Cha, Tango; 8 to 9 p.m. Intermediate Waltz, Cha Cha, East Coast Swing, Rumba, at American Stars of Dance Studio, 133 Cedar Ave. ($90 a couple). Call 847-838-1234.

GREATER FOX VALLEY CHAPTER OF USA DANCE, A non-profit organization, designed to promote and sponsor amateur ballroom dancing for the general public. Information: Walt, 815-337-6860 or ok3wire@joltmail.com; Jackie, 847-639-8699, jackiepenze@aol.com or www.dancefoxvalley.org. Admission: $8 members, $12 non-members. Dances take place 8 p.m. at Dole Mansion’s Sage Ballroom, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Dances include a free dance lesson at 7:30 p.m., cake and snacks. Dance schedule: 7:30 to 11 p.m. Nov. 15, Soft Lights & Rumba Nights dance and silent auction.

SATURDAY FALL WORKSHOP, 7 to 9 p.m. Dec. 6, Duker School, 3711 W. Kane Ave., McHenry. Single Time Swing & Tango taught by Frank and Jackie Penze. Cost: $35 a couple in district, $45 a couple out of district. Sign up through McHenry Parks & Recreation at 815-363-2160.

SQUARE DANCE LESSONS, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. beginning Nov. 18, Whispering Hills Community Center, 4708 Jeffrey St., Johnsburg. A 10-week session for singles, couples and children ages 8 and older. Featuring basic for new students and mainstream levels of square dancing offered by Woodstock Squares Dance Club. First two lessons offered at no obligation. Cost: $50 a person. Registration and information: 815-385-6638 or 815-385-2329.

Chicago

TANGO & SALSA LESSONS, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursdays, The Silver Room, 1442 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. With live music. Salsa lessons 7 to 9 p.m. with Tango lessons immediately following. Cost: $10 a person per lesson. Information: 773-278-7130.

FAMILY EVENTS

Kane County

BILL BLAGG III: 9:45 a.m., noon and 8 p.m. Nov. 7, The Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Magic and illusion shows. Tickets: $7 daytime shows, $10-$50 evening show at 847-931-5900 or www.hemmens.org.

“FAIRY TAILS WITH A FRUMPY TWIST”: 3 p.m. Nov. 8 & Nov. 16, Baker Community Center Auditorium, 101 S. Second St., St. Charles. Actors’ Craft Theatre Troupe presentation. Featuring “The Way-Out Wizard of Oz” by Val R. Cheatham and “Unlucky Cinderella” by Marilee Jackson. Suggested admission: $4 a person or $10 per family. For information, e-mail Connie Flores at: conniebflores@comcast.net.

“LU ANN HAMPTON LAVERTY OBERLANDER”: Nov. 7-23, Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Written by Preston Jones. A moving comedy about a woman stuck in a small West Texas town. Schedule: 8 p.m. Nov. 7-8, 14-15, 21-22; 3 p.m. Nov. 16 & 23. Tickets: $11 adults, $9 seniors and students at 847-622-0300 or www.elgin.edu/arts.

THE MAGIC OF BILL BLAGG III, 8 p.m. Nov. 7, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. An interactive magic and illusion show. Also featuring 9:45 a.m. and noon Performing Arts for Young People shows (all tickets $7). Tickets: $10, $20, $25, $50 at 847-931-5900 or www.hemmens.org.

McHenry County

CLAY JENKINSON Jefferson/Roosevelt Debate: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7, Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Clay Jenkinson returns to Crystal Lake with WGN 720 AM’s John Williams for a theatrical performance of Teddy Roosevelt and Thomas Jefferson. This new show will feature a real-time debate between Roosevelt and Jefferson. Tickets: $40, $50 at 815-356-9212 or www.rauecenter.org.

CLAY JENKINSON as Thomas Jefferson: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8, Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Clay Jenkinson returns with his nationally-acclaimed historical interpretation of Thomas Jefferson. Jenkinson will lend his insights to the 2008 Presidential Election. Moderated by WGN 720 AM’s John Williams. There will also be a 6 p.m. reception where guests can meet Jenkinson prior to the show (reception tickets are $25). Performance tickets: $40, $50 at 815-356-9212 or www.rauecenter.org.

“FOOLS”: 7 p.m. Nov. 7-8 and 2 p.m. Nov. 9, Richmond-Burton High School Auditeria, 8311 N. Route 31, Richmond. A Neil Simon play presented by Richmond-Burton Community High School. Story about the Russian village of Kulyenchikov, a small, make-believe town put under a curse, rendering its inhabitants completely stupid. Tickets: $7 adults, $5 seniors and students at 815-678-6585 or e-mail: mflanagan@rbchs.com.

“HARVEY”: Nov. 7-23, Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. Presented by TownSquare Players. A Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy about Elwood P. Dowd who starts to introduce his imaginary friend, Harvey, a six-foot, three-and-a-half-inch rabbit to guests. His sister, Vera, decides to have him committed to a sanitarium to spare the family from future embarrassment. Schedule: 8 p.m. Fridays & Saturdays, 3 p.m. Sundays. Tickets: $23 adults, $20 seniors and students at 815-338-5300 or www.woodstockoperahouse.com.

“ONCE UPON A SHOE”: 3 & 7 p.m. Nov. 15, Fox River Grove Middle School, 401 Orchard St., Fox River Grove. Written by Joseph Robinette. Cary Park District’s Children’s Theater Company of Cary Junior presentation. Tickets: $3 through Nov. 14, $4 day of performance, free for children ages 2 and younger. Tickets and information: 847-639-6100.

VARIETY SHOW, ninth annual, 7 p.m. Nov. 8, Huntley High School Performing Arts Center, 13719 Harmony Road, Huntley. Presented by the Huntley Fine Arts Boosters featuring more than 50 middle and high school students as well as adults from the community. Acts include singing, dancing, gymnastics, rock and roll bands, comedy and more. Tickets: $7 adults, $5 seniors and students. Proceeds benefit the arts in School District 158. Information: 847-669-3500.

Regional

“NARNIA: THE LION, THE WITCH & THE WARDROBE”: Nov. 7-16, CCC Arts Auditorium, 2500 Dowie Drive, Zion. Christian Youth Theater (Lake County) presentation. Follow the four Pevinsie children through the wardrobe into a magical land where animals talk, winter is eternal and an evil white witch holds the kingdom in her grip. Schedule: 7 p.m. Nov. 7; 2 & 6 p.m. Nov. 8; 2 p.m. Nov. 9; 9:30 & 11:45 a.m. Nov. 13; 7 p.m. Nov. 14; 2 & 6 p.m. Nov. 15; 2 p.m. Nov. 16. Tickets: $8-$12 in advance, $2 extra at the door. Tickets and information: 847-516-2298 or ww.cytchicago.org.

“OVER THE TOP”: Nov. 7-16, Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey production of an all-new, wacky and whimsical circus spectacular. Schedule: 10:30 a.m. & 7 p.m. Nov. 7; 11:30 a.m., 3:30 & 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8; 1 & 5 p.m. Nov. 9; 7 p.m. Nov. 12-14; 11:30 a.m., 3:30 & 7:30 p.m. Nov. 15; 1 & 5 p.m. Nov. 16. Tickets: $13, $19, $24 at 312-559-1212, any Ticketmaster outlet or www.ticketmaster.com.

“SEUSSICAL JR.”: Nov. 13-16 Oswego East High School Performing Arts Center, 1525 Harvey Road, Oswego. Christian Youth Theater (Aurora) musical presentation explores the witty, wild and whimsical world of Dr. Seuss. Schedule: 9:30 & 11:45 a.m. Nov. 13; 10 a.m. & 7 p.m. Nov. 14; 2 & 6 p.m. Nov.  15; 2 p.m. Nov. 16. Tickets: $8-$11 in advance, $2 extra at the door. Tickets and information: 847-516-2298 or www.cytchicago.org.

“YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN”: through Nov. 9, Prairie Lakes Community Center, 515 E. Thacker St., Des Plaines. Christian Youth Theater (NW Cook County) presentation. Charlie Brown searches for happiness with Linus, Lucy, Snoopy, Woodstock and the entire gang. Recommended for all ages. Schedule: 7 p.m. Nov. 7; 2 & 6 p.m. Nov. 8; 2 p.m. Nov. 9. Tickets: $8-$12 in advance ($2 extra at the door) at 847-516-2298 or www.cytchicago.org.

Chicago

“OVER THE TOP”: Nov. 18-30, United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey production of an all-new, wacky and whimsical circus spectacular. Schedule: 7 p.m. Nov. 18-19; 10:30 a.m. & 7 p.m. Nov. 20-21; 11:30 a.m., 3:30 & 7:30 p.m. Nov. 22; 1 & 5 p.m. Nov. 23s; 7 p.m. Nov. 25-26s; 11:30 a.m., 3:30 & 7:30 p.m. Nov. 28-29; 1 & 5 p.m. Nov. 30. Tickets: $13, $19, $24 at 312-559-1212, any Ticketmaster outlet or www.ticketmaster.com.

FILM

Kane County

GENEVA FILM FESTIVAL, second annual, Nov. 8, Geneva City Hall, Geneva Public Library, Geneva History Center, old Towne Pub and One Fine Art. Activities include morning workshops (8 to 11:45 a.m.), film screenings (starting at 11 a.m.) and an evening awards reception (starting at 6 p.m.). Admission: $10. Event details and information: www.genevafilmfestival.org.

Chicago

GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER, 164 N. State St., Chicago. Information, movie times and tickets: 312-846-2600, www.siskelfilmcenter.org. Tickets: $9 adults, $7 students with ID, $5 film center members. Schedule: Nov. 7, “The Man I Killed,” “Dear Zachary,” “The Christians;” Nov. 8, “In Which We Serve,” “Dear Zachary,” “This Happy Breed,” “Muppet History 101;” Nov. 9, “Commercials & Experiments,” “Dear Zachary,” “The Dark Crystal;” Nov. 10, “This Happy Breed,” “Dear Zachary,” “Bonhoeffer;” Nov. 11, “The Dark Crystal,” “Dear Zachary,” “In Which We Serve;” Nov. 12, “The Man I Killed,” “Dear Zachary;” Nov. 13, “Outer Ear Festival of Sound: Deborah Stratman,” “Dear Zachary,” “Box Elder.”

HENRY CROWN SPACE CENTER OMNIMAX, Museum of Science and Industry, 57th Street at Lake Shore Drive, 773-684-1414, 800-468-6674 or www.msichicago.org for show times and information. Admission: $20 adults, $19 seniors, $14 children ages 3 to 11 (includes museum admision). Tickets for museum and film must be purchased together. Schedule: “Wild Ocean;” through Feb. 28, 2009, “Grand Canyon Adventure.” 

NAVY PIER IMAX THEATRE, 700 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Information: 312-595-5629 or www.imax.com/chicago. Call for showtimes. Tickets: $15 adults, $14 seniors, $13 children age 3-12; children age 2 and younger free. Schedule: “Eagle Eye: The IMAX Experience;” “Fly Me to the Moon 3D;” “Dolphins & Whales 3D,” “Haunted Castle 3D.”

MUSEUMS

Kane County

FABYAN VILLA MUSEUM & JAPANESE GARDEN, Fabyan West Forest Preserve, Route 31 just north of Fabyan Parkway, Geneva, 630-377-6424 or www.ppfv.org. Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays, 1 to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays & Sundays. Japanese Garden open 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays & Sundays.

GENEVA HISTORY CENTER, 113 S. Third St., Geneva, 630-232-4951 or www.genevahistorycenter.org. Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday (April through December). Admission: $4 adults, $2 seniors, $1 children ages 3-16. Featuring changing exhibits, museum store and a public meeting room. Geneva Historic Homeowners Association meets 7 p.m. third Wednesdays. Geneva History Center’s Quilt Guild meets 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. last Tuesdays.

McHenry County

AUTO GALLERY MUSEUM, 2807 Route 12, Spring Grove, 815-675-3222 or www.autogallerymuseum.com. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday. Featuring 35 to 50 antique and specialty vehicles on display for sale. Gift shop offers automotive art, signs, models, posters and other items. Old town yesterday Main Street with a display of a wide array of items from the past and selected craft items. Vendors welcome. Free admission. Donations accepted.

CHALLENGER LEARNING CENTER, 222 Church St., Woodstock, 815-338-7722 or www.challengerillinois.org. Featuring a Meteorite and Earth Science Exhibit, interactive EdVenture Center and educational programs. Public hours: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Admission: $3 a person general public, free for members.

Regional

BARRINGTON AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY, Old Barrington Centre, 212 W. Main St., Barrington, 847-381-1730 or www.bahsil.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed Sunday. Watch the restoration of the turn of the century railroad station baggage cart from noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Admission: $5 adults, $3 seniors, $2 students and children.

BURPEE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, 737 N. Main St., Rockford, 815-965-3433 or www.burpee.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Housed in two historic mansions. Main exhibits include mammals, birds, insects, reptiles and amphibians, rocks and minerals, fossils and dinosaurs. Featuring the permanent exhibit Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur. Admission: $6 for resident adults ($7 non-resident), $5 for children ages 3-17 ($6 non-resident), free for members and children younger than 3, Wednesdays free to all.

CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN, 385-acre living museum, 1000 Lake Cook Road (a half mile east of the Edens Expressway), Glencoe. Open 8 a.m. to sunset daily except Christmas. Free admission. Parking $15, seniors $7 on Tuesdays. Information: 847-835-6980 or www.chicagobotanic.org. 

CIRCUS WORLD MUSEUM, 426 Water St., Baraboo, Wis., 608-356-0800 or www.circusworldmuseum.com. Museum conserves and exhibits the world’s largest collection of antique circus wagons. Admission: $7 adults, $6 seniors, $3.50 children ages 5-11, free for children 4 and younger.

CZECHOSLOVAK HERITAGE MUSEUM, 122 W. 22nd St., Oak Brook, 630-472-0500. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Free admission. Highlighting the history and culture of the Czech Republic and Slovakia featuring a wide variety of displays and exhibits including authentic Czech, Moravian, and Slovak costumes, crystals and ceramics, historical exhibits, dolls and puppets, and needlework dating from 1850.

DISCOVERY CENTER MUSEUM, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, 815-963-6769 or www.discoverycentermuseum.org. A hands-on, family-oriented museum in Riverfront Museum Park. First outdoor museum park in the U.S., with exhibits about sound, weather, water, cave exploration, and a two-story maze. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6 adults, $5 children ages 2 to 17, free for children younger than 2 and museum members.

DuPAGE COUNTY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville, 630-637-8000 or www.dupagechildrensmuseum.org. Hours: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $7.50 ages 1-59, $6.50 seniors, free for members. Featuring a variety of creative arts programs, storytelling and more. Fees apply to some programs.

ERLANDER HOME MUSEUM, 404 South 3rd St., Rockford, 815-963-5559 or www.swedishhistorical.org. The cultural centerpiece of Rockford's Swedish-ancestry community. Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 children ages 3-17, $15 family (two adults with children).

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT HOME AND STUDIO TOURS, 951 Chicago Ave., Oak Park, 708-848-1976, www.gowright.org. This historic house museum, operated by the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust, served as Wright’s residence, studio and architectural laboratory during the first twenty years of his career from 1889 to 1909. Oak Park contains the world’s largest concentration of Wright-designed structures, 26 in all. Daily guided tours 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. weekdays, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. weekends. Extended summer hours Thursdays with tours on the hour 3 to 6 p.m. Admission: $12 adults, $10 children ages 7-18 and seniors age 65 and older, $5 children ages 4-10. Schedule: 3 to 6 p.m. Nov. 9, At Home with Live Greenery lecture and demonstration, at the Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park ($25 Preservation Trust members, $30 non-members).

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S FREDERICK C. ROBIE HOUSE, 5757 S. Woodlawn, Hyde Park, 708-848-1976, www.gowright.org. Tours by the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust offer both a first-hand experience of its amazingly contemporary spaces and the current restoration work that is returning the house to its original magnificence in preparation of the home’s 100th annivesary in 2010.  To accommodate the magnitude of interior restoration construction and maintain a safe guest environment, tour offerings at the Robie House will be limited through Oct. 31, 2009. Public tours will be conducted 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. Admission: $12 adults, $10 children ages 7-18 and seniors age 65 and older, $5 children ages 4-10. Advanced ticket purchased recommended at 800-514-3849 or www.GoWright.org.

HISTORIC AUTO ATTRACTIONS, 13825 Metric Drive, Roscoe, 815-389-7917 or www.historicautoattractions.com. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Memorial Day to Labor Day, weekends after Labor Day. Admission: $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 students ages 6-15, free for children younger than 6. Tour rates available. Come take a journey through time and enjoy more than 70 historic vehicles and hundreds of pieces of history that takes you beyond the concept of most auto museums. Visit the John F. Kennedy Display. See the secret service limo from the Kennedy assassination, Richard Petty’s oldest existing car, Batmobiles, Ghostbusters, Elvis’ car & memorabilia, cars of gangsters like Al Capone and Bonnie and Clyde, Grateful Dead tour bus and more.

KOHL CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview, 847-832-6600 or www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to noon Monday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $7.50 adults and children, $6.50 seniors, free for children younger than 1 and members.

LAKE COUNTY DISCOVERY MUSEUM, Lakewood Forest Preserve, 27277 Forest Preserve Drive (Route 176 and Fairfield Road), Wauconda, 847-968-3400 or www.lakecountydiscoverymuseum.org. Hours: 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6 adults, $2.50 children ages 4-17, free for children 3 and younger and members.

MIDWAY VILLAGE & MUSEUM CENTER, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, 815-397-9112 or www.midwayvillage.com. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, closed Mondays. General admission: $6 adults, $4 children ages 3 to 17, free for members. Event admission: $6 adults, $4 children ages 3 to 17. A turn-of-the-century reconstructed village on 134 acres, including a church, school, town hall, blacksmith shop, bank, jail, hospital, farmhouse, hardware store, plumber’s shop and water-powered machine shop.

MIDWEST MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, 425 W. State St., Sycamore, 815-895-9777 or www.mmnh.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, closed on holidays. Admission: $5 adults, $4 seniors and children ages 12 and younger and groups of 20 or more, free for children ages 2 and younger.

MILWAUKEE ART MUSEUM, 700 N. Art Museum Drive, 414-224-3220 or www.mam.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays. General Admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors, $4 students, free for children 12 and younger accompanied by an adult, free for members. Feature exhibit tickets: $14 adults, $12 seniors, $10 students, free for children younger than 12. Schedule: through Nov. 30, Unmasked and Anonymous: Shimon & Lindemann Consider Portraiture; through Jan. 4, 2009, On Site: Santiago Cucullu; through October 2009, Sensory Overload: Light, Motion, Sound and the Optical in Art since 1945.

MILWAUKEE PUBLIC MUSEUM, 800 W. Wells St., Milwaukee, 414-278-2700 or www.mpm.edu. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Closed July 4, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Admission: $11 adults, $10 seniors age 60 and older, $10 children ages 3-17, $8 children ages 3-12, free for children age 2 and younger and museum members.

MORTON ARBORETUM, 4100 Route 53, Lisle, 630-719-2400, 630-968-0074 or www.mortonarb.org. An outdoor 1,700-acre museum with collections of several thousand varieties of trees, shrubs and other plants from around the world. Open daily. Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. or sunset, whichever is earlier. Admission: $9 adults ($6 on Wednesday), $8 seniors ($5 on Wednesday), $6 ($4 on Wednesday) children ages 3-17, free for children younger than 3 and members.

NAPER SETTLEMENT, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville, 630-420-6010 or www.napersettlement.org. A 19th century living history museum. The 13-acre village has 30 historic structures, including a Victorian mansion, homes, businesses, a log house, fort, chapel and one-room schoolhouse. Summer hours through Oct. 31: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Summer admission: $8 adults, $7 seniors, $5.50 children ages 4-17, free for members. Schedule: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 7-8, Weed Ladies Winter Floral Sale (free admission); through Dec. 14, “The Power of Music: Photographic Portraits of Americans and their Musical Instruments, 1860-1915” exhibit.

ROCKFORD ART MUSEUM, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, 815-968-2787 or www.rockfordartmuseum.org. Gallery Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday (until 7 p.m. Thursday), noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6 adults, $3 seniors/students, $2 group rate, free for children younger than 12. Free admission Tuesdays.

VOLO AUTO MUSEUM, 27582 W. Volo Village Road, near intersection of Route 120 & Route 12, Volo, 815-385-3644 or www.volocars.com. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday (closed Monday, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas). Admission: $9 adults, $7 seniors, veterans and active military personnel, $5 children ages 5-12, free for children younger than 5. Group rates. American Classic Shop offers unique auto-related books, clothing, toys and gifts, popcorn and candy. Free parking. Car museum includes more than 300 vintage collector and Hollywood cars.

Chicago

ADLER PLANETARIUM, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, 312-922-7827 or www.adlerplanetarium.org. Museum of astronomy and space exploration featuring astronomer gallery talks, exhibits, astronomy artifacts, sky shows and more. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day, 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. first Fridays. Admission: General: $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 children 4-17; Galaxy Package: $19 adults, $17 seniors, $15 children 4-17, includes admission and one Sky Show; Universe Package: $23 adults, $21 seniors, $19 children 4-17, includes admission and two sky shows.

ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO, 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-443-3600. (See Art section for exhibits.)

CHICAGO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, 312-527-1000 or www.ChiChildrensMuseum.org. Interactive exhibits for children. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday & Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday & Saturday. Admission: $9 adults and children, $8 seniors, free for children younger than age 1. Permanent exhibitions: Dinosaur Expedition; The Inventing Lab; WaterWays; Allstate Foundation presents Play it Safe; Kovler Family Schooner; Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows for PlayMaze; Treehouse Trails, Artabounds Studio and Gallery; Kids on the Fly (located at O’Hare International Airport). Target Free First Mondays when children ages 15 and younger receive free museum admission first Mondays of every month. Kraft Free Family Night 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday evenings (free admission for everyone).

CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM, Clark Street and North Avenue, 312-642-4600 or www.chicagohistory.org. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, Friday & Saturday; 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday; noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $14 adults, $12 seniors and students ages 13-22, free for children 12 and younger. Free general admission Mondays. Permanent exhibitions: A House Divided: America in the Age of Lincoln; We the People: Creating a New Nation; Richard H. Needham Chicago History Galleries; Illinois Pioneer Life and Fort Dearborn; On the Paper Trail; Hands-On History Gallery; Voices from History. Featuring courtroom drawings from the 1968 Chicago Seven Conspiracy Trial by Franklin McMahon. Schedule: opens Nov. 8, Burnham 2.0: A Patchwork Plan for the High-Speed Rail; through Dec. 7, Chicago@40: The Band and its City; through Jan. 4, 2009, Catholic Chicago; through July 26, 2009, Chic Chicago: Couture Treasures from the Chicago History Museum.

THE FIELD MUSEUM, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, 312-922-9410 or www.fieldmuseum.org. Hours:  9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily except Christmas. General admission: $14 for adults; $11 seniors and students with ID; $9 children ages 4-11 (Gold Pass and Platinum Pass ticket options available). Permanent exhibits: What is an Animal? Africa; Sue the Tyrannosaurus rex; Inside Ancient Egypt; Nature Walk; Underground Adventure; Pawnee Earth Lodge; Pacific Spirits; Evolving Planet; The Ancient Americas; Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice DNA Discovery Center and many other exhibits. Schedule: Nov. 14 through Jan. 11, 2009, Transforming Tradition: Pottery from Mata Ortiz; through Jan. 4, 2009, Nature Unleashed: Inside Natural Disasters; through Jan. 4, The Painted Bird: Louis Agassiz Fuertes; through April 19, The Aztec World.

GARFIELD PARK CONSERVATORY, 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago, 312-746-5100 or www.garfield-conservatory.org. Featuring the Sugar from the Sun new permanent exhibit. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, Thursdays until 8 p.m. Free admission.

HANCOCK OBSERVATORY, 875 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. Hours: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Admission: $12 adults, $10 seniors 62 years and older, $8 children ages 5-12, free for children age 4 and younger. Information: 888-875-8439 or www.hancock-observatory.com.

INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM OF SURGICAL SCIENCE, 1524 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, 312-642-6502 or www.imss.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, May through September; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m Tuesday through Saturday, October through April. Admission: $9 adults, $5 seniors and students. Featuring: The Universal Condition: Enduring and Alleviating Pain; Supporting Structure: Understanding the Spine and Spinal Surgery; Milestones in Medical Imaging: From X-ray to Nuclear Medicine.

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART, 220 E. Chicago Ave., 312-280-2660 or www.mcachicago.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Closed Mondays, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission: $10 adults, $6 students and seniors, free for children 12 and younger, members of the military and museum members. Target Free Tuesdays 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Schedule: through Jan. 18, 2009, Jenny Holzer.

MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY, 57th Street and Lake Shore Drive, 773-684-1414; 800-GO-TO-MSI or www.msichicago.org. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. General admission: $13 adults, $12 seniors, $9 children ages 3-11, free for children younger than 3 (other exhibit admission combination options available). Permanent exhibits: Petroleum Planet; The Great Train Story; Toymaker 3000; U-505 Submarine; Earth Revealed; Fast Forward. Special exhibits: Networld; Ships through the Ages; Reusable City; and more. Schedule: through Jan. 4, Smart Home: Green & Wired.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MEXICAN ART, 1852 W. 19th St., Chicago, 312-738-1503 or www.nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, closed Monday. Free admission. Performance festivals are ticketed. Permanent exhibition: Mexicanland: Our Past is Present. Schedule: through Dec. 14, La Vida Sin Fin, Day of the Dead exhibition; through Jan. 25, 2009, Milagros y Santos de Todos los dias (Miracles and Everyday Saints); through Feb. 1, Heresies: A Retrospective by Pedro Meyer.

NOTEBAERT NATURE MUSEUM, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, 773-755-5100 or www.naturemuseum.org. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Admission: $9 adults, $7 seniors and college students with ID, $6 children ages 3-12, free on Thursdays. Featuring permanent exhibits such as The Extreme Green House and Hands-on Habitat. 

SHEDD AQUARIUM, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, 312-939-2438 or www.sheddaquarium.org. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends. Admission: $27.50 adults $20.50 seniors and children ages 3-11 (Premium Day Pass); $23 adults, $16 seniors and children (Day Pass); $18 adults, $14 seniors and children (Mini Pass); $8 adults, $6 seniors and children (Aquarium only) and discounted admission for special exhibits; free for members. Permanent exhibit: Wild Reef. The 4-D theater features “Planet Earth: Shallow Seas,” and “SpongeBob SquarePants” shows. Featuring Community Free/Discount Days Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays through Nov. 25, sponsored by Ford Motor Company. Also featuring free general admission to seniors Nov. 13-16 in celebration of the 75th anniversary of Granddad, the Australian lungfish.

SWEDISH AMERICAN MUSEUM CENTER, 5211 N. Clark, Chicago, 773-728-8111 or www.samac.org. E-mail: museum@samac.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission: $4 adults, $3 seniors, students and members, free for children younger than 1 year, $10 family rate. Free admission second Tuesday of every month.

SINGLES EVENTS

McHenry County

BABY BOOMER SINGLES CLUB, geared toward singles older than 45. No membership, pay as you go. Information: 815-529-8139, e-mail: babyboomersingles@comcast.net or www.babyboomersinglesclub.com. Schedule: 7 to 10:30 p.m. Nov. 16, Dance at Sideouts Bar & Grill, 4018 Roberts Road, Island Lake. Featuring disc jockey  music and dancing on a hardwood floor. Cash bar. Food available. Cost: $10 a person (first 10 people get in free).

Regional

AREA SINGLES FALL DANCE, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Nov. 15, Shepherd’s Gate building of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 3300 Rural St., Rockford. Music by Missing Links. Light meal 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. available for purchase. Dance tickets: $5 in advance, $7 at the door. Sponsor: Rockford Area Lutheran Ministries. Tickets and information: 815-962-4279 or www.rockfordlutheranministries.com.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Kane County

LAUGHTER FOR LITERACY COMEDY SHOW, second annual, 7 & 9 p.m. Nov. 8, Gail Borden Public Library, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin. Greenroom Productions improvisational comedy troupe fundraiser shows. Proceeds benefit The Literacy Connection to support adult literacy. Bake sale treats available prior to the shows. Tickets: $15 adults in advance ($10 students), $20 at the door. Tickets and information: 847-742-6565 or www.elginliteracy.org.

VETERAN’S DANCE, 7 p.m. Nov. 7, South Elgin Lions club, 500 Fulton St., South Elgin. Food served all night. All proceeds benefit various veterans programs. Tickets: $15 a person, $25 a couple (cash only). Half-price for any active duty personnel (ages 18 and older) with ID. Sponsors: VFW Post 2327 and Ladies Auxiliary of South Elgin. Tickets and information: 847-695-7462 after 5 p.m.

McHenry County

STAND DOWN FOR VETERANS, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 10-11, YMCA Camp Algonquin, 1889 Cary Road, Algonquin. Featuring a variety of services for newly discharged, displaced, disabled, homeless or unemployed veterans in observance of  Veterans Day. Services will include medical screenings, employment services, referrals for housing assistance, information on Veterans Administration services and more offered by area organizations. Registration starts at 8 a.m. Presented by National Association of Systems Administrators Education Corporation. Information: 866-338-4968 or www.nasaeducation.org.

VETERANS DAY ASSEMBLY, 1:30 p.m. Nov. 11, Richmond-Burton Community High School, 8311 N. Route 31, Richmond. Local veterans and all members of the public are invited. Free. Information: 815-678-7563 or 815-678-4525.VETERANS DAY RECOGNITION CEREMONY, 10:30 a.m. Nov, 11, McHenry County College Multipurpose Room in Building A, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Keynote speaker will be retired Army Lt. Col. Ryan Yantis of Crystal Lake. Patriotic music, refreshments and more. Also accepting donations of phone cards, comedy DVDs, music CDs, candy, batteries and more for soldiers recently deployed to Afghanistan from the Woodstock Armory. Free. Open to the public. Information: 815-455-8559 or 815-455-8728.

McHenry County - Ongoing

McHENRY COUNTY CIVIL WAR ROUND TABLE, 7:30 p.m. second Tuesdays, McHenry County Historical Society, 6422 Main St., Union. Programs are free. Information: www.mchenrycivilwar.com. Schedule: Nov. 11, Charlie Banks will present “Battle of South Mountain.”

MORAINE HILLS STATE PARK, 1510 S. River Road, between Routes 120 & 176, McHenry, 815-385-1624 (park information); 815-344-1294 (registration); www.dnr.state.il.us/lands/landmgt/parks or e-mail: dnr.volobog@illinois.gov. An Illinois Department of Natural Resources site. Registration required. Schedule: 8 a.m. Nov. 8, Bird Walk.

Regional

HELPING HEARTS HOLIDAY TOY & FOOD DRIVE, fourth annual, 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Nov. 15, Brett’s American Bar & Grill, 38 E. Higgins Road (west of Randall Road on Route 72), Gilberts. Live music by Roadhouse Prophets, 50/50 raffles and other raffle prizes. Bring an unwrapped toy and non-perishable food item. Toys benefit Tom Thumb Child Care Center in Carpentersville. Food benefits Turning Point domestic violence agency in Woodstock. Information: 847-426-6655.

Regional - Ongoing

VOLO BOG STATE NATURAL AREA, 28478 W. Brandenburg Road, west off Route 12 between Routes 120 & 134, Ingleside, 815-344-1294; www.dnr.state.il.us/lands/landmgt/parks or e-mail: dnr.volobog@illinois.gov. An Illinois Department of Natural Resources site. Site open daily 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Labor Day. Visitor Center open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Guided tours 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. most Saturdays and Sundays. Registration required. Schedule: 10 to 11:30 a.m. Nov. 8, Of Bogs & Books Discussion group on “Henry Chandler Cowles: Pioneer Ecologist” by Victor M. Cassidy; 1 to 3 p.m. Nov. 8, dried Prairie Flower Arranging.

Chicago

AN EVENING OF INSPIRATION, HOPE & TRIBUTE, second annual, 5:45 p.m. Nov. 11, The Chicago Hilton, 720 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. Featuring cocktails, silent auction, awards ceremony and a dining experience showcasing top Chicago chefs. Presented by the Lymphoma Research Foundation. Tickets: $150 at www.lymphoma.org/chicagodinner.

GO VERTICAL CHICAGO 2008, seventh annual, 7 to 11:30 a.m. Nov. 9, Sears Tower, 233 S. Wacker Drive, Chicago. Annual charitable indoor stair climb. Participants will climb 2,109 steps to the top of the Sears Tower. Adults, seniors, children and dedicated stair-climbers from all over the world will take part. Proceeds benefit Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation which supports the nation’s top young cancer research scientists. Information: www.goverticalchicago.org.

LIFE IN BALANCE SURVIVORSHIP CONFERENCE, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 7 & 7 a.m. to noon Nov. 8, Chicago Hilton and Towers, Chicago. Conference for breast cancer patients, survivors and supporters featuring workshops, wellness expo, networking opportunities and more. Robin Roberts, co-anchor of ABC News’ Good Morning America, will speak about her personal experience with breast cancer. Registration fee: $115; $85 one day. Host: Breast Cancer Network of Strength. Registration and information: 312-294-8576 or www.networkofstrength.org/lifeinbalance.

ZOOS

Regional

BROOKFIELD ZOO, 31st Street and First Avenue, Brookfield, 708-485-0263 or www.brookfieldzoo.org. Featuring more than 2,000 exotic and familiar animals on 216 acres. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends. Admission: $11 adults, $7 seniors and children 3-11, free for zoo members and children 2 and younger. Free admission Tuesdays and Thursdays through December. There will be free admission Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays in January and February 2009. Parking: $8. Schedule: 1 p.m. Nov. 11, Veterans Day ceremony.

Chicago

LINCOLN PARK ZOO, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, 312-742-2000 or www.lpzoo.org. General hours: Grounds 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. buildings and farm 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Houses more than 2,000 birds, mammals and reptiles, including the world’s largest collection of gorillas in the great ape house. Also, orangutans, chimpanzees, a children’s petting zoo and Farm-in-the-Zoo. Free admission. There is a charge for parking. Schedule: 9:30 to 11 a.m. Nov. 9, Go Wild at Breakfast with Lincoln Park Zoo’s Apes at Regenstein Center for African Apes (tickets $75 a person, children younger than age 12 not permitted).