This week's title, inspired by author Isabel Allende's genre of literature, expands beyond a form of fiction writing. The real world is often more amazing than a dreamt-up tale. Take the elections, for example. While you can read all about those dream scenario realities in our News section, sample the array of real shows, exhibits and performers who are a sort of dream come true.

Thu 15: Isabel Allende
@ MOAD

Bestselling Chilean author (The House of the Spirits) discusses her new novel Island Beneath the Sea, with local author Carolina de Robertis. Free with museum admission ($6-$18). 6:30pm-8pm. Museum of the African Diaspora, 685 Mission St. at 3rd. 358-7200. www.moadsf.org

Fri 16: Ana Gasteyer
@ The Rrazz Room

From Sweeney sister to Ephelba to neurotic characters galore, the comic actress (Saturday Night Live, Suburgatory) will amaze you even more with her singing, as she performs Elegant Songs from a Handsome Woman, a comic show of songs and stories. $40. 9:15pm. Also Nov 17, 9:15 and Nov 18, 7pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Fri 16: Hip Hop DanceFest @ Palace of Fine Arts

They fly through the air with the greatest of cool in two programs full of energetic dancing ensembles from SF, East Bay, LA, London, Tokyo, Oslo, even all-female and disability-inclusive groups. $40-$75. 8pm. Also Nov 17, 8pm. Nov 18 at 2pm & 7pm. 3301 Lyon St. 392-4400. www.cityboxoffice.com

Fri 16: A Midsummer Night's Dream
@ Archbishop Riordan High School

Student production of the Shakespeare comedy about fairies who turn humans into asses. $5-$8. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru Nov 18. 175 Phelan Ave. 587-5866. www.riordanhs.org

Fri 16: Steven J. Levin, Jacob A. Pfeiffer @ John Pence Gallery

Opening reception for a dual exhibit of the two painters, who explore realism, portraits and still lives with vibrant colors and imagery. 6pm-8pm. Reg hours Mon-Fri 10am-6pm. Sat til 5pm. 750 Post St. 441-1138. www.johnpence.com

Sat 17: The White Snake
@ Berkeley Rep

Tony Award-winning director Mary Zimmerman's (Argonautika, Arabian Nights) visually stunning mystical drama is based on a Chinese legend of romance and magical powers. $22-$99. Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat 8pm. Wed 7pm. Sun 7pm. Sat & Sun 2pm. Thru Dec 23. Special events thru run. Roda Theatre, 2025 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 647-2949. www.berkeleyrep.org

Events Nov 15-22, 2012

Thu 15

Age, Diversity & Gender Fluidity
@ GLBT Museum

Forum sponsored by the San Francisco Dyke March, 7pm-9pm. Also, see the exhibits Play Fair! The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence Make Sex Safer, an exhibit of safe sex promotional efforts. Also, For Love and Community: Queer Asian Pacific Islanders Take Action 1960-1990s, an exhibit organized by queer and transgender Asian Pacific Islanders. Mon-Sat 11am-7pm. Sun 12pm-5pm. 4127 18th St. 621-1107. www.glbthistorymuseum.org

Carmelina @ Eureka Theatre

42nd Street Moon's production of the rarely performed musical about a WWII "widow" who gathers three men who may be the father of her daughter. This is the musical that inspired the Broadway hit Mamma Mia! $25-$75. Wed 7pm. Thu & Fri 8pm. Sat 6pm. Sun 3pm. Thru Nov 18. 215 Jackson St. 255-8207. www.42ndstmoon.org

Classical Recitals @ SF Music Conservatory

Students and faculty perform various classical music concerts; piano, string quartets and more, almost nightly 8pm. Sundays 2pm & 5pm,. thru Nov 28. Free-$20. Usually 8pm. 50 Oak St. at Gough. www.sfcm.edu

Comedy Bodega @ Esta Nocha

The weekly LGBT and indie comic stand-up night. 8pm-9:30pm. 3079 16th St. at Mission. www.comedybodega.com

Cypress String Quartet @ Various Venues

The talented local ensemble performs Dvořak's Love Songs, the Cypresses in three venues. Nov 16, 8pm at Pearson Theater at Meyer Sound, 2832 San Pablo Ave. Nov 18, 8pm at Gallery Wendi Norris, 161 Jessie St, Nov 18, 3pm at Stonebrook Court Manor, 123 Stonebrook Ct. $50-$120 (3-concert pass). www.cypressquartet.com

Dazzle @ Guerrero Gallery

Benefit for Lyon-Martin Health Services, with cocktails, Off the Grid food trucks, and music with DJ Olga T. $75-$250 and up. 6pm-9pm. 2700 19th St. www.lyon-martin.org/dazzle

Double Features
@ Castro Theatre

Interestingly paired films continue: Nov 15, The Intouchables (2:30, 7pm) and The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (4:45, 9pm). Nov 16, Warren Miller's Flow State (snowboarding film). Nov 17: Screenings of restored prints of masterpieces of French cinema Port of Shadows (2:45, 7pm) and Grand Illusion (4:35, 8:45). Nov 19: Sleepwalk With Me (7pm) and The Science of Sleep (8:45). Nov 20: The Big Lebowski (2:30, 7pm) and Thunderbolt and Lightfoot (4:45, 9:15) $8.50-$11. 429 Castro St. 621-6120. www.castrotheatre.com

Fauxgirls @ Infusion Lounge

The classy drag revue (3rd Thursdays) has moved to a new location, and celebrates its 11th year; Victoria Secret, Alexandria, Chanel, Maria Garza, Mini Minerva, Kipper, Daffney Deluxe and Ruby LeBrowne, with special guest Anya; dinner seating at 7pm. Show at 8pm. No cover. 124 Ellis St. 421-8700. www.fauxgirls.com

Fran Lebowitz @ Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley

The sardonic New York author, columnist and actress speaks on current issues and events in a lecture and Q&A with the audience. $20. 8pm. Bancroft Way at Telegraph Ave., UC Berkeley campus. (510) 642-9988. www.calperformances.org

Goapele @ Yoshi's, Oakland

Singer-songwriter and Bay Area vocalist who blends soul, jazz and hiphop in a unique blend, performs live. $30. (dinner and menu items extra) 8pm & 10pm. Sun 7pm & 9pm. Thru Sun Nov 18. 510 Embarcadero West. (510) 238-9200. www.yoshis.com

Green & Gold Gala @ Conservatory of Flowers

Golden Gate Park arboretum's annual festive fundraiser, with a Boomtown Barbary Coast theme. See the garden railway exhibition, enjoy drinks, food, live music and "burlesque" entertainment, plus a visit from 'Emperor Norton.' Black tie, business or themed attire. $95, $150, $250 (VIP 5:30pm) and up. 7pm-11pm. 100 JFK Drive. 831-2093. www.greenandgoldgala.org

History: The Musical @ Un-Scripted Theater

Improv theatre company, in a new theatre, performs sketches through different time periods; a different era and show each night. $10-$20. Thu-Sat 8pm. Thru Dec 22. 533 Sutter St. 322-8738. www.un-scripted.com

Isabel Allende @ MOAD

Bestselling Chilean author (The House of the Spirits ) discusses her new novel Island Beneath the Sea, with local author Carolina de Robertis. Free with museum admission ($6-$18). 6:30pm-8pm. Museum of the African Diaspora, 685 Mission St. at 3rd. 358-7200. www.moadsf.org

Lady Rizo @ The Rrazz Room

The slightly zany yet vocally serious New York performer returns. $30. 9pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

The Lion King @ Orpheum Theatre

Disney's long-running musical (and the highest grossing Broadway show in history) based on the animated film makes a return to the Bay Area. $32.50-$150. Tue-Sat 8pm. Sat 2pm, Sun 1pm. (closed or different times for some holidays). Thru Jan. 13, 2013. (888) 746-1799. www.shnsf.com

Lois Banner @ Books Inc.

Author of Marilyn: The Passion and the Paradox discusses her book about Marilyn Monroe. 7:30pm. 2275 Market St. 864-6777. www.booksinc.net

Our Daily Bread @ CounterPulse

Amara Tabor-Smith's Deep Waters Dance Theater's performance work about the rituals of food, folkslore and traditions, versus fast food and the global food crisis. $20-$30. 8pm. Thru Nov 18. 1310 Mission St. www.counterpulse.org

Safeway Holiday Ice Rink @ Union Square

The popular downtown ice skating rink is open. 5-$10. Open daily 10am-11:30pm thru Jan 21 (except New Year's Eve; closed at 9:30pm). Powell St. at www.unionsquareicerink.com

Shocktoberfest 13 @ Hypnodrome

Thrillpeddlers presents Shocktoberfest 13, an evening of horror and unhinged comedy with two world-premiere one-act plays and a classic: Coals of Fire by Fredrick Whitney, The Bride of Death by Michael Phillis, and Rob Keefe's The Twisted Pair. $25-$35. Thu-Sat 8pm. Thru Nov 17. 575 10th St. (800) 838-3006. www.thrillpeddlers.com

The Songbird of Paris @ The Marsh, Berkeley

Joni Takanikos stars as French singer Edith Piaf in an intimate production of Martha Furey's musical near-solo drama. Thu & Fri 8pm. Sat 8:30pm. Thru Dec 1. 2120 Allston Way near Shattuck. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org

Susanna Hoffs @ Red Devil Lounge

Lead singer for The Bangles performs music from her third solo album. Evolution Eden opens. $20-$25. 8pm. 1695 Polk St. www.reddevillounge.com

Fri 16

Ana Gasteyer @ The Rrazz Room

Comic actress (Saturday Night Live, Suburgatory) performs Elegant Songs from a Handsom Woman, a comic show of songs and stories. $40. 9:15pm. Also Nov 17, 9:15 and Nov 18, 7pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Another Way Home @ Magic Theatre

Family drama about Jewish parents whose values are questioned when they visit their son's summer camp. $22-$62. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sat & Sun 2:30pm. Thru Dec 2. Fort Mason Center, Bldg. D, 3rd fl. Marina Blvd, at Buchanan. 441-8822. www.magictheatre.org

Artists-in-Residence @ RayKo Photo

Opening reception for a trio exhibit; Kirk Crippens' Ten Thousand Scrolls, Maggie Preston's Contact, and David Wolf's The After Life of Things. 6pm-8pm. Reg hours Tue-Thu 10am-10pm Fri-Sun 10am-8pm. Thru Dec 14. 428 3rd St. 495-3773. www.raykophoto.com

Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson @ SF Playhouse

Local singer/actor Ashkon Davaran (the Giants' "Don't Stop Believin'" anthem, Beardo) stars in Alex Timbers and Michael Friedman's presidential musical, an acclaimed rock rendition of the life of one our first and most controversial elected leaders. $30-$70. Tue-Thu 7pm. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sat 3pm. Thru Nov 24. 450 Post St. (2nd floor of Kensington Park Hotel). 677-9596. www.sfplayhouse.org

Death on Installment Plan @ Mission Cultural Center

Exhibit of art with unusual takes on mortality and Day of the Dead. $5. Exhibit thru Nov. 17. 2868 Mission St. 643-5001. www.missionculturalcenter.org

Desert Jewels @ MOAD

North African Jewelry and Photography from the Xavier Guerrand-Hermes Collection, an exhibit of nearly 100 pieces of jewelry from Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria, plus documentary photographs. Thru Jan 21. $5-$10. Members free. Wed-Sat 11am-6pm. Sun 12pm-5pm. Museum of the African Diaspora, 685 Mission St. 358-7200. www.moadsf.org

Electra @ American Conservatory Theatre

A.C.T. Artistic Director Carey Perloff directed this new translation (by Timberlake Wertenbaker) of the timeless Greek tragedy, which features actress Olympia Dukakis. $30-$100. Wed-Sat 8pm. Also Wed, Sat & Sun 2pm. Thru Nov 18. 415 Geary St. 749-2228. www.act-sf.org

The Game Show Show @ The Retrodome, San Jose

Campy parody musical show, with audience participation, that pokes fun at vintage TV game shows. You're laugh your _____off! $44. Fri & Sat 7:30pm. Sun 2:30pm. Thru Nov 18. Westgate Center, 1694 Saratoga Ave. (408) 404-7711. http://www.theretrodome.com/

Hip Hop DanceFest @ Palace of Fine Arts

Two programs full of energetic dancing ensembles from SF, East Bay, LA, London, Tokyo, Oslo, even all-female and disability-inclusive groups. $40-$75. 8pm. Also Nov 17, 8pm. Nov 18 at 2pm & 7pm. 3301 Lyon St. 392-4400. www.cityboxoffice.com

The Hundred Flowers Project @ Thick House

Crowded Fire's world premiere production of Christopher Chen's political dystopic drama where a theatre troupe struggles with producing a play about the rise of Mao Tse Tung, only to see the world outside their stage changing drastically. $15-$35. Wed-Sat 8pm. Thru Nov 17. 1695 18th St. 746-9238. www.crowdedfire.org

An Iliad @ Berkeley Repertory Theatre

Lisa Peterson and Denis O'Hare's adaptation of Homer's epic poem about the Trojan War and its effect on soldiers and families on both sides, as told by one elderly survivor. $17-$73. Tue, Fri, Sat 8pm. Wed & Sun 7pm. Also Sat & Sun 2pm. Thru Nov 18. 2015 Addison St. at Shattuck, Berkeley. (510) 647-2949. www.berkeleyrep.org

Jan Steckel, Betty Blue @ GLBT History Museum

The Bay Area Bisexual Network celebrates 25 years of bringing bisexuals together with a reception and a reading by two bisexual authors, Jan Steckel (Mixing Tracks) and Betty Blue, who also writes as Jane Kindred (The Fallen Queen ). 7pm-9pm. 4127 18th St. 621-1107. www.glbthistorymuseum.org

John Nieto @ Nieto Fine Art

Gallery owner showcases his own art; new colorful pop paintings depicting wild animals and Native Americans. Thru Nov 30. 565 Sutter St. 393-4511. www.nietofineart.com

A Midsummer Night's Dream @ Archbishop Riordan High School

Student production of the Shakespeare comedy. $5-$8. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru Nov 18. 175 Phelan Ave. 587-5866. www.riordanhs.org

Nuns Rock @ The Lookout

Fundraiser for a memorial stone for Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence who've died, at the AIDS Memorial Grove. $5 and up. Jell-o shots and fun. 9pm-2am. 3600 16th St. www.lookoutsf.com www.thesisters.org

Out of Character @ Asian Art Museum

Decoding Chinese Calligraphy, a new exhibit of modern and ancient scripted art, with numerous special events, workshops and discussions. Free-$12. Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. Thru Jan 13. 200 Larkin St. 581-3500. www.asianart.org

Play Fair @ GLBT History Museum

Play Fair! The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence Make Sex Safer, an exhibit of safe sex promotional efforts. Also, For Love and Community: Queer Asian Pacific Islanders Take Action 1960-1990s, an exhibit organized by queer and transgender Asian Pacific Islanders. Mon-Sat 11am-7pm. Sun 12pm-5pm. 4127 18th St. 621-1107. www.glbthistorymuseum.org

Prince Herman @ Magnet

"Stained Glass Pornography," an exhibit of the local artist's fascinating religious erotica glassworks. Thru Nov. 4122 18th St. www.magnetsf.org

The Rainmaker @ Shelton Theater

N. Richard Nash's drama about a traveling con man who romances a small town woman, gets a local production. $38. Fri & Sat 8pm. Thru Dec 22. 533 Sutter St. at Powell. (800) 838-3006. www.sheltontheater.org

Richard III @ Live Oak Theatre, Berkeley

Shakespeare's drama about an evil king gets a production by Actors Ensemble of Berkeley. $12-$15. Fri & Sat 8pm. Thru Nov 17. (510) 649-5999. www.aeofberkeley.org

SF Sailing Team @ La Mar Cebicheria

Happy Hour and social celebrating the tenth anniversary of the LGBT sailing team, which premiered at the 2002 Syndey Gay Games. 4:30pm. Pier 1 1/2. (650) 740-4641. www.lamarcebicheria.com/san-francisco/

Steven J. Levin, Jacob A. Pfeiffer @ John Pence Gallery

Opening reception for a dual exhibit of the two painters, who explore realism, portraits and still lives with vibrant colors and imagery. 6pm-8pm. Reg hours Mon-Fri 10am-6pm. Sat til 5pm. 750 Post St. 441-1138. www.johnpence.com

The Submission @ New Conservatory Theatre Center

Jeff Talbot's sharp play explores racism, affirmative-action and bias in the theatre world, when a white gay writer submits a play about life in the projects, and hires an African American actress to pretend to be the playwright. $25-$45. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru Dec. 16. 25 Van Ness Ave. at Market, lower level. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.org

The Waiting Period @ The Marsh

Brian Copeland's popular solo show about his struggle with depression. $25-$50. Fri 8pm, Sat 5pm. Extended thru Dec 8. 1062 Valencia St. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org

The White Snake @ Berkeley Rep

Tony Award-winning director Mary Zimmerman's (Argonautika, Arabian Nights) visually stunning mystical drama based on a Chinese legend of romance and magical powers. $22-$99. Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat 8pm. Wed 7pm. Sun 7pm. Sat & Sun 2pm. Thru Dec 23. Special events thru run. Roda Theatre, 2025 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 647-2949. www.berkeleyrep.org

Wilder Times @ Aurora Theatre, Berkeley

Four one-act plays by Pulitzer Prize winner, former Berkeley resident and closeted gay playwright and author Thornton Wilder. $32-$60. Tue 7pm. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm & 7pm. Thru Dec. 9. 2081 Addison St., Berkeley (510) 843-4822. www.auroratheatre.org

Sat 17

100 Years of Rural California @ California Historical Society

Exhibit of 150 large-scale color prints by writer-photographer Lisa Hamilton, and archival selections dating back to the 1880s. Thru Mar. 24. 2013. 678 Mission St. 357-1848. www.californiahistoricalsociety.org

(Affordable) Art From the Heart @ NIAD Art Center, Richmond

Opening reception for an exhibit and holiday sale of art made by adults with developmental disabilities; all priced from $15-$150. 2pm-5pm. Exhibit thru Dec. 25. 551 23rd St., Richmond. (510) 620-0326. www.niadart.org

Beach Blanket Babylon @ Club Fugazi

Musical comedy revue, now in its 35th year, with an ever-changing lineup of political and pop culture icons, all in gigantic wigs. Reg: $25-$130. Wed, Thu, Fri at 8pm. Sat 6:30, 9:30pm. Sun 2pm, 5pm. (Beer/wine served; cash only). 678 Beach Blanket Babylon Blvd (Green St.). 421-4222. www.beachblanketbabylon.com

Cello Street Quartet @ Stage Werx Theater

San Francisco Conservatory of Music graduates' ensemble performs a concert of classical and pop music. Partial proceeds benefit Magnet SF. Donations. 8pm. 446 Valencia St. Also Dec 2 , 3pm at Magnet SF, 4122 18th St. www.CelloStreetQuartet.com

Couture Funding a Cure
@ Westfield Valley Fair

Santa Clara County Gala benefit for the American Cancer Society, with Project Runway's Anthony Ryan Auld; food, wines, champagne, decor and fashion shows. $125 and up. 6pm-9pm. 2855 Stevens Creek Blvd., Santa Clara (Forest Avenue Entrance). www.gala.acsevents.org

Earthquake @ California Academy of Sciences

New exhibit and planetarium show with various live, interactive and installed exhibits about our ever-shifting earth. $20-$30. Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm. Sun 11am-5pm. 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org

Eric Fischl @ San Jose Museum of Art

Exhibit of a dozen-plus large paintings, and other works by the prominent post-modern neo-realist. Thru May 12, 2013. 110 South Market St. www.SanJoseMuseumofArt.org

Geezer @ The Marsh

Veteran comic actor Geoff Hoyle returns with his hit solo show about his youth in England, and growing older. $25-$100. Sat 8pm. Sun 7pm. Thru Nov 18. 1062 Valencia St. at 22nd. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org

Jasper Johns, Jay DeFeo @ SF MOMA

Two exhibits of the American artists' works. Thru Feb 3. Also, Paul Klee's Circus, Alessandro Pessoli, and other works and ongoing Modern art exhibits. Free-$18. 151 3rd St. at Mission. Thu-Tue 11am-5:45pm (8:45 Thursdays). 357-4000. www.sfmoma.org

Mark I. Chester @ Wicked Grounds

Exhibit of photographs by the veteran photographer of leather culture; thru November. 289 8th St. www.markichester.com www.wickedgrounds.com

Mascara @ Castro Country Club

The Gratitude Show, hosted by U-Phoria, at the LGBT sober space. $3-$6. 4058 18th St. www.castrocountryclub.org

Nayland Blake @ YBCA

FREE!LOVE!TOOL!BOX!, the former Bay Area artist's new exhibit of conceptual and assembled found-object, personal installations and artworks, each with queer themes, including a DJ booth with his own large record collection; and Nathalie Djurberg's amazing colorful creature sculptures. $12-$15. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission St. 979-2787. www.naylandblake.net www.ybca.org

Nick Weber: Broadband @ Resipsa Gallery, Oakland

Intriguing exhibit of paintings based on imagery from online porn. Saturdays, 1pm-4pm. Thru Jan. 11. 455 17th st. #301. Oakland. www.resipsagallery.com

Off the Beaten Path @ Harvey Milk Photography Center

Group exhibit of visually compelling photos of San Francisco's well- and least-known parks. McLaren Lodge, 501 Stanyan St. at Fell. Photos also on exhibit at the Harvey Milk Center (50 Scott St.) and the Parks Emergency Aid Station (811 Stanyan St.). Thru Nov. 30. 554-8919. www.harveymilkphotocenter.org

Phantoms of Asia @ Asian Art Museum

Exhibit of bold contemporary art with perspectives on life, death, nature and other themes. $12-$15. 200 Larkin St. 581-3500. www.asianart.org

Port of Shadows, Grand Illusion @ Castro Theatre

Screenings of restored prints of masterpieces of French cinema. $8.50-$12. Port: 2:45, 7pm and Grand: 4:35, 8:45. 429 Castro St. www.castrotheatre.com

The Radical Camera: New York's Photo League @ Contemporary Jewish Museum

Group exhibition of fascinating photos from 1936-1951 taken by members of the progressive collective that documented the eras of postwar struggles, McCarthy blacklists, and urban life. Other exhibits ongoing. Free (members)-$12. Thu-Tue 11am-5pm (Thu 1pm-8pm) 736 Mission St. 655-7800. www.thecjm.org

Royal Treasures from the Louvre @ Legion of Honor

Exhibit of decorative arts, most never seen in the U.S., from the riegns of Louis XIV to Marie-Antoinette, from the Musee du Louvre, Paris. Free-$20. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. Thru March 17. Lincoln Park, 34th Ave and Clement St. www.legionofhonor.org

Rudolf Nureyev: A Life in Dance @ de Young Museum

Direct from the Centre National du Costume de Scene in Moulins, France, this exhibit displays costumes, photos, videos and ephemera documenting the amazing dancing and choreography of the world-famous gay dancer. Thru Feb 17. Nov 17, From Tutus to Trunks, special guest lecture with costume designer Connie Strayer, 10am at Koret Auditorium. Also, Chuck Close and Crown Point Press, an exhibit of the painter's printmaking works; also, permanent exhibits of Modern art. $6-$20. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, Golden Gate Park. 750-3600. www.famsf.org

SF Hiking Club @ Redwood Regional Park

Join GLBT hikers for a 9.5-mile loop hike in Redwood Regional Park and Anthony Chabot Park in the Oakland hills, through redwood groves and meadows with a few short, steep inclines. Unless it's totally fogged in, expect to get a surprising view of the Oakland and San Francisco skylines. Bring lunch, water, hat, layers, sturdy boots. Carpool meets 9:45 at Safeway sign, Market & Dolores. 706-5335. www.sfhiking.com

San Francisco Magic Parlor @ Chancellor Hotel

Whimsical Belle Epoque-style sketch and magic show that also includes historical San Francisco stories; hosted by Walt Anthony. with optional pre-show light dinner and desserts. $40. Thu-Sat 8pm. 433 Powell St. www.SFMagicParlor.com

SoMa Country @ Beatbox

Sundance Saloon's South of Market event (3rd Saturdays), with two-stepping, line-dancing lessons for beginners, and friendly regulars. Cowboy gear not required, but boots or smooth-heeled shoes recommended. $8. 6pm-10pm. 314 11th St. www.sundancesaloon.or

The Sound of Music @ Julia Morgan Theatre, Berkeley

Rogers & Hammerstein's classic musical about the Von Trapp family, and their Austrian struggle with a new nanny, and Nazis, gets a local production. $17-$35. Thu-Sat 7pm. Also Sat 2pm. Sun 12pm, 5pm. Thru Dec 2. 2640 College Ave., Berkeley. (510) 845-8542. www.berkeleyplayhouse.org

Strindberg Cycle: The Chamber Plays @ Exit Theater

Cutting Ball Theater performs August Strindberg plays in repertory; The Ghost Sonata, The Pelican and The Black Glove, and Storm and Burned House. $10-$75. Thu 7:30pm, Fri & Sat 8pm & 2pm. Sun 5pm. Thru Nov 18. 277 Taylor St. 525-1205. www.cuttingball.com

Toil and Trouble @ La Val's Subterranean, Berkeley

Impact Theatre's comic update on Shakespeare's ... Scottish play (MacBeth). $10-$20. Thu-Sat 8pm (no show Thanksgiving). Thru Dec. 8. 1834 Euclid Ave., Berkeley. www.impacttheatre.com

The William S. Paley Collection: A Taste for Modernism @ de Young Museum

New exhibit of varied and little seen Modern Art works collected by the New York art patron with a diverse taste, including paintings by Cezanne, Picasso, Matisse Degas, Toulouse-Lautrec and others. Also, This World Is Not My Home: Photographs by Danny Lyon, thru Jan. 27. $10-$20. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. (til 8:45pm Fridays) Thru Dec. 30. Golden Gate Park, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive. 750-3600. www.famsf.org

Wilson Phillips @ Davies Symphony Hall

Grammy-nominated women's pop band, each kids of Beach Boys or Mamas and the Papas bands, perform songs from Dedicated , their new CD of songs their parents made famous. $15-$75. 8pm. 201 Van Ness Ave. 864-6000. www.sfsymphony.org

Women 我們 @ Chinese Cultural Center

Exhibit of video works, installation art, photography, sculpture, and more by a diverse array of LGBTQ artists including Mu Xi, Yang Meiyan, He Chengyao, and other emerging artists based in China as well as five U.S.-based artists, among them Man Yee Lam and Stella Zhang. Tue-Sat 10am-4pm. Thru Dec. 15. 750 Kearny St., 3rd floor (inside the Hilton Hotel). 986-1822. www.c-c-c.org

Xavier MTW @ Glamarama

Foucault at the Food Co., a whimsical visual story exhibit by a new local gay artist, at the fab hair salon. Thru Jan. 5, 2013. 304 Valencia St. www.glamarama.com

Sun 18

Dia de los Muertos @ Oakland Museum of Art

Special exhibition of Day of the Dead altars by artists, schoolkids, and museum docents; guest-curated by Eduardo Pineda. 12pm-4:30pm Also, The 1968 Exhibit, a touring exhibit of the historic year, with ephemera, protest posters, interactive media; extended thru Nov 2012. Also, Bay Area figurative art; Dorothea Lange archive, early landscape paintings, Gold Rush Era works, California ceramics. Gallery of California Natural Sciences. $6-$12. 1000 Oak St. Oakland. (510) 318-8400. www.museumca.org

Josh Klipp and the Klipptones @ Condor Club

Local crooner and his jazz band perform at the strip club. 3-6pm. 560 Broadway. 781-8222. www.joshklipp.com

LGBT Mixer @ Max's Lounge, Corte Madera

Enjoy a prix fixe menu, drinks and live music with different acts at the weekly LGBT mixer. 6pm-9pm. 60 Madera Blvd., Corte Madera. 924-6297. http://maxscortemadera.blogspot.com/

Michael Zapruder @ Amnesia

Innovative multimedia artist premieres Pink Thunder, a prose poem song cycle with accompanying art works (event is the closing party for the exhibit), collectively performed and composed by a Bay Area ensemble of artists. $7. 9pm. 853 Valencia St. 970-0012. www.michaelzapruder.com www.amnesiathebar.com

Sony Holland @ Yoshi's

Local vocalist with a sweet jazz voice performs with her quintet. $20. 7pm. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com

Sundance Saloon @ Space 550

Popular country western LGBT dance night $5-$8. 6:30pm-10:30pm with lessons from 7:00 - 8:00 pm. Also Sundays 5pm-10:30pm with lessons from 5:30-7:15 pm. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.sundancesaloon.org

Sunday's a Drag @ Starlight Room

Donna Sachet and Harry Denton host the weekly fabulous brunch and drag show. $45. 11am, show at noon; 1:30pm, show at 2:30pm. 450 Powell St. in Union Square. 395-8595. www.harrydenton.com

Wesla Whitfield @ The Rrazz Room

Classy local singer performs jazz and R&B classics with the Mike Greensill Trio. $35-$45. Various times thru Nov 21. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Mon 19

Animation Exhibits @ Walt Disney Museum

See biographical exhibits about Walt Disney, early sketches and ephemera from historic Disney movies. Frequent lectures and film screenings. $5-$20. 104 Montgomery St., The Presidio. www.waltdisney.org

Piano Bar 101 @ Martuni's

Sing-along night with talented locals, and charming accompanist Joe Wicht (aka Trauma Flintstone). 9pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com

Ten Percent @ Comcast 104

David Perry's talk show about LGBT people and issues. This week, Perry talks with Trebor Healey, author of the book A Horse Named Sorrow. Perry also chats with Dana Van Gorder, Executive Director of Project Inform. Mon-Fri 11:30am & 10:30pm. Sat & Sun 10:30pm. www.comcasthometown.com

Tue 20

The Drag Show @ Various Channels

Stu Smith's weekly LGBT variety show features local talents, and not just drag artistes. Channels 29 & 76 on Comcast; 99 on AT&T and 30 on Astound. www.thedragshow.org

Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey's

Ronn Vigh hosts the weekly LGBT and gay-friendly comedy night. One drink or menu item minimum. 9pm. 500 Castro St. at 18th. 431-HARV. www.harveyssf.com

Start Out @ Hot Italian, Emeryville

East Bay fall networking event for LGBT entrepreneurs, investors and professionals, at the acclaimed new pizzeria/restaurant. 6pm-8pm. 5959 Shellmound St., Emeryville. (510) 922-1369. www.startout.org/city/san-francisco

Wed 21

The Art of Dr. Seuss @ Dennis Rae Fine Art

Fascinating exhibit of rarely seen prints, paintings, sculptures and a few of the more known drawings by Theodor Geisel, the author/illustrator of the immensely popular children's books. Ongoing, with updates and new items. 351A Geary St. 391-1948. www.dennisraefineart.com

Art With Elders @ City Hall

Large group exhibit of works by 90 artists in 30+ local arts programs, all seniors with a lengthy life perspective. Thru Jan. 4. Reg hours Mon-Fri 8am-8pm. Ground floor, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place. www.sfgov.org

Candlelight Flow Yoga @ LGBT Center

David Clark leads various yoga poses and practices, plus meditation and breathing exercises. Bring your own mat and water bottle, etc. $10. 7pm-8:30pm. 1800 Market St. www.4dbliss.com

Singing the Golden State @ Society of California Pioneers

Exhibit of beautiful sheet music and artwork from 1849 -1930s, all with California themes; curated James M. Keller, the exhibit includes a few subtly gay and historically transgender subjects. $2.50-$50. Wed-Fri 10am-4pm. First Saturdays 10am-4pm. Thru Dec. 7. 300 Fourth St. 957-1849. www.californiapioneers.org/singing_the_golden_state.html

Thu 22

(Thanksgiving Day)

Dark Sparkle @ Cafe DuNord

Goth romance spectacle band performs. $5. 9pm. 21+. 2170 Market St. at Sanchez. 861-5016. www.cafedunord.com

Henry Rollins @ Yoshi's

A hot older dude who's straight but defend us homos, and is performing on a holiday? Magically delicious. The former punk rocker Black Flag and Rollins Band front man (and unofficial f*g stag) shares his thought-provoking monologue show, The Long March. $25-$30. 7:30pm. Also Nov 23, 7:30pm and Nov 25, 7pm. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com

Potluck Party @ Castro Country Club

Annual open dinner party at the LGBT sober space; Bring a dish to share. 1pm. 4058 18th St. www.castrocountryclub.org

Thanksgiving Brunch + Dinner Buffet @ Mark Hopkins Hotel

Michael Ethans performs (11am-3pm) and Richardo Scales (3pm-8pm) at two delicious meal servings at the elegant hotel. $59 (kids 4-12)- $105 (adults). 616-6941. 1 Nob Hill www.topofthemark.com

Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie's Lounge

Special "shake your giblets" post-Thanksgiving night, with retro disco tunes and fun crowd, each Thursday; DJ Bus Station John plays records. $4. 10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com

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To submit event listings, email jim@ebar.com.

Deadline is each Thursday, a week before publication.

For more bar and nightlife events, go to www.bartabsf.com