Are you shopping, anti-shopping, locavorian gifting? Whatever your choices for giving, you can get more back by taking a break to enjoy performances by from some of our lovely locals and visiting artists, who help celebrate the holidays in extraordinarily gay ways.

Smuin Ballet @ YBCA

The Christmas Ballet, the late Michael Smuin's holiday work, with updates by Amy Seiwart and other choreographers. LGBT Night Out Dec 20; $10 of tickets benefit the Trevor Project. $25-$65. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sat & Sun 2pm. Thru Dec 23. Novellus Theatre, 701 Mission St. 912-1899.  www.smuinballet.org   www.ybca.org

Hedwig and the Angry Inch @ Boxcar Theatre

Okay, it's not at all about Christmas, but this new local production of John Cameron Mitchell and Stephen Trask's popular transgender rock operetta is quite a bonus gift, with multiple actor-singers performing the lead (Arturo Galster, John Lewis, James Mayagoitia, Ste Fishell, Nikkie Arias, Nicole Julien, Anastasia Bonaccorso, and CC Sheldon). $25-$35. Wed-Sat 8pm. Also Sat 5pm. Thru Jan 26. 505 Natoma St. 967-2227.  www.boxcartheatre.org

The Hard Nut @ Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley

Returning after a three-year hiatus, Cal Performances presents Mark Morris Dance Group's delightful update, with a '70s style, of the Tchaikovsky score and traditional ballet, with Morris performing as well. $30-$110. Fri-Sun various times. Thru Dec 23. Bancroft Way at Telegraph Ave., UC Berkeley campus. (510) 642-9988. www.calperformances.org

Sat 15: Crones for the Holidays @ Stage Werx

Terry Baum and Carolyn Myers' sketch comedy and improv show with lesbian wit pokes fun of holiday silliness. $15-$20. Sat 3pm & 8pm. Sun 3pm. Thru Dec 30. 446 Valencia St at 16th. (800) 838-3006. www.crackpotcrones.com

Sat 15: Punk Rock X-mas @ Midnight Sun

Princess Kennedy (of Trannyshack and PepperSpray band fame) returns to SF for a one-night show of songs and holiday raucous fun with her band, The Yule-tards. No cover. 9pm-2am. 21+. 4067 18th St. www.midnightsunsf.com

Sat 15: The Nightmare We Call Christmas  @ Castro Theatre

Screening of the Tim Burton film Edward Scissorhands, with Peaches Christ and her drag gaggle of freaks doing a pre-show. $20-$45. 8pm. 429 Castro St. www.peacheschrist.com   www.castrotheatre.com  

Sun 16: Norman Vane @ Martuni's

Cabaret singer performs The Barbra Streisand Christmas Album, with guests Ethel Merman and Sheelagh Murphy; Joe Wicht accompanies. $7. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. www.facebook.com/events/211810172287150

Sun 16: Lesbian/Gay Chorus of San Francisco @ Martuni's

Enjoy the vocal ensemble's Shameless Show of Holiday Shite: A Sequel. 4pm. Also Dec 17, 7pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.lgcsf.org

Sun 16: Santa Skivvies Run @ Lookout

Fourth annual fun run (in minimal holiday undergarments) fundraiser for the San Francisco AIDS Foundation starts and ends at the gay bar with a great view. $35 to participate; free to watch. 1pm. 3600 16th St. Register online at www.santaskivviesrun.org  

Mon 17: Katya Smirnoff-Skyy @ The Rrazz Room

Our favorite Russian exiled drag empress performs her "Holiday Spectacular." $30. 8pm.  2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095.   www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Tue 18: Jackie Beat @ Rebel

LA's caustically funny drag queen performs Come They Told Me a naughty musical holiday show. $26.   7pm & 9:30pm. Also dec 19. 1760 Market St. www.MissJackieBeat.com   www.rebel-sf.com  

Wed 19: The Santaland Diaries ,br.@ Eureka Theatre

David Dinaiko performs Joe Mantello's stage adaptation of the popular David Sedaris short story. $20-$50. 8pm. Thru Dec 29 (no show Dec 25). 215 Jackson St. (800) 838-3006. www.combinedartform.com   www.theeruekatheatre.org  

Thu 20: Justin Vivian Bond @ The Rrazz Room

The transcontinental sensation returns with a new show, Snow Angel. $30. 10pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095.  www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Wrap it

Still looking for gifts? Here are some fun options where you can buy original art and/or meet artists while enjoying a holiday party.

Thu 13: Shop 'Til You Drop Nightlife @ California Academy of Sciences

Bazaar Bizarre fills the space with indie artists and designers, a lecture on why the Mayan Calendar is not the "end of the world," plus food, cocktails and DJed dancing. $10-$12. 6pm-10pm, 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org  

Sat 15: Holiday Sale @ Creativity Explored

Exhibit and sale of new beautifully charming artwork made by local developmentally challeneged adults. Extended hours thru Dec 23: Mon/Tue 10am-3pm. Wed-Fri til 7pm. Sat & Sun 12pm-5pm. 3245 16th St. 863-2108. www.creativityexplored.org

Tue 18: Visual Aid Holiday Party @ Varnish Fine Art

Holiday fundraiser for the arts nonprofit, with cocktails, wine, hors d'eouvres, desserts, and plenty of local artists to meet. $50-$200. 6pm-9pm. 16 Jessie St. 777-8242. www.visualaid.org

Events Dec 13–20, 2012

Thu 13

Caminos Flamencos @ ODC Theater

Emmy-winning choreographer Yaelisa and her acclaimed flamenco dancers perform 10 Por Arriba, a festive holiday show. $20-$40.  Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 3pm. Thru Dec 16. 3153 17th St. 863-9834. www.caminosflamencos.com   www.odctheater.org

Classical Recitals @ SF Music Conservatory

Students and faculty perform various classical music concerts; piano, string quartets, opera repertory and more, almost nightly 8pm. Sundays 2pm & 5pm. Thru Dec 14. Free-$20. Usually 8pm. 50 Oak St. at Gough. www.sfcm.edu

The weekly LGBT and indie comic stand-up night. This week, a benefit for Rocket Dog Rescue: Featuring Ben Feldman, Jesse Fernandez and Jill Bourque. 8pm-9:30pm. 3079 16th St.  at Mission.  www.comedybodega.com

Conspiracy of Beards @ Contemporary Jewish Museum

Hanukkah-themed show with the bearded band, dreidel games, a photobooth, exhibit talks and tours and more. Free (members)-$5, $12. 6pm-8pm. 736 Mission St. at 3rd. 655-7800. www.thecjm.org

A Down Home Christmas with Nell & Jim @ Aurora Theatre Company

Nell Robinson and Jim Nunally's concert of classic country holiday duos and original songs, at the theatre company's new upstairs cabaret space, Harry's UpStage. $25-$28. Dec 13-15, 17, 19-21 at 7:30pm. Dec 16 at 5pm. 2081 Addison St. (510) 843-4822. www.auroratheatre.org

Handel's Messiah @ Davies Hall

The San Francisco Symphony and Symphony Chorus perform the classic baroque musical religious epic, with soloists Joelle Harvey, Jennifer Johnson-Cano, Andrew Stenson and Michael Sumuel. $15-$146. 7:30pm. Also Dec 14 & 15, 7:30pm. 201 Van Ness Ave. 864-6000. www.sfsymphony.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

It's a Wonderful Life @ Marin Theatre Company, Mill Valley

Radio play stage adaptation of the Frank Capra film about Christmas and guardian angels, with five actors portraying dozens of characters. $36-$57. Tue, Thu-Sat 8pm. Wed 7:30pm. Sun 7pm. 397 Miller Ave., Mill Valley. 388-5208. www.marintheatre.org

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

Mundo Maya @ Galeria de la Raza

Exhibit celebrating Mayan culture, with works by Latino/Mayan youth. Thru Dec 29. Tue-Sat 12pm-6pm. 2857 24th St. at Bryant. 826-8009. www.galeriadelaraza.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.   Also, Nathalie Djurberg's amazing colorful creature sculptures. $12-$15. Thru Jan. 27. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission St. 979-2787. www.naylandblake.net   www.ybca.org

Olympians Festival @ Exit Theater

Enjoy a baker's dozen of commissioned plays both serious and funny, about various gods, goddesses, and prominent characters from ancient Greek literature. $10. Most shows 8pm. Thru Dec 20. 156 Eddy St. www.sfolympians.com

Pictorialism @ Robert Tat Gallery

Pictorialism: The Photograph Becomes Art, a new exhibit of historic prints that visualize the posed, artistic aspect of early art photographers (Alfred Stieglitz, Imogen Cunningham and many others). Thru Feb 23. Tue-Sat 11am-5:30pm. (first Thursdays til 7:30pm). 49 Geary St. Suite 410. 781-1122. www.roberttat.com

Shop 'Til You Drop Nightlife @ California Academy of Sciences

Bazaar Bizarre fills the space with indie artists and designers, fascinaint lecture on why the Mayan Calendar is not the "end of the world," plus food, cocktails and DJed dancing. $10-$12. 6pm-10pm, 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org  

Teen Dreams and Puberty Nightmares @ Oddball Films

Gut-cringing hilarious short films about adolescence (training bras! wet dreams! drugs!), including a junior high school musical with a 16-year-old Paula Abdul. $10. 8pm. 275 Capp St. 558-8117. www.oddballfilms.blogspot.com  

The Wild Party @ A.C.T. Costume Shop

American Conservatory Theatre students perform Andrew Lippa's musical drama about roaring '20s-era show folk who host an out-of-control party. $15. 7:30pm. Also Dec 14, & 15 (and Dec 15 at 2pm). 1117 Market St. 749-2228. www.act-sf.org

Fri 14

Amy & Freddy @ The Rrazz Room

Chicago-based comic duo and RSVP Cruise faves returns for one night songs and comedy. $37. 10pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095.  www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Chanticleer @ Various Churches

The Grammy-winning men's a cappella vocal ensemble performs Christmas-themed Gregorian chants and historic music. $30-$65. (San Francisco locales, unless otherwise noted) Dec 14, 8:15pm at Cathedral of Christ the Light, Oakland. Dec 15, 8pm at St. Ignatius Church. Dec 16, 4pm & 6:30pm at St. Vincent Church, Petaluma. Dec 18 8pm at Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Sacramento. Dec 21, 6pm & 8:30pm at Carmel Mission. Dec 22, 6pm & 8:30pm at Mission Santa Cruz. Dec 23, 8pm at St. Ignatius Church. (800) 407-1400. www.chanticleer.org

A Christmas Carol @ American Conservatory Theatre

A.C.T.'s popular annual production of the stage adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic story about Scrooge's ghostly Christmas Eve visitations. $20-$95 (VIP tix include premiere seating and complimentary intermission drinks). Open-captioned show Dec 16, 5:30pm. Tue-Sat 7pm. Sun 5:30pm. Various 2pm & 1pm matinees. Thru Dec 24. 415 Geary St. 749-2228. www.act-sf.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  

Eyes Wide Shut, The Shining @ Castro Theatre

Double feature of Stanley Kubrick films at 5:30 and 8:30pm. $8.50-$12. 429 Castro St. www.castrotheatre.com

The Hard Nut @ Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley

Returning after a three-year hiatus, Cal Performances presents Mark Morris Dance Group's delightful update, with a '70s style, on the Tchaikovsky score and traditional ballet, with Morris performing as well. $30-$110. Fri-Sun various times. Thru Dec 23. Bancroft Way at Telegraph Ave., UC Berkeley campus. (510) 642-9988. www.calperformances.org

Hedwig and the Angry Inch @ Boxcar Theatre

New local production of John Cameron Mitchell and Stephen Trask's popular transgender rock operetta, with multiple actor-singers perfoming the lead (Arturo Galster, John Lewis, James Mayagoitia, Ste Fishell, Nikkie Arias, Nicole Julien, Anastasia Bonaccorso, and CC Sheldon). $25-$35. Wed-Sat 8pm. Also Sat 5pm. Thru Jan 26. 505 Natoma St. 967-2227.   www.boxcartheatre.org

Holiday Sale @ Creativity Explored

Exhibit and sale of new beautifully charming artwork made by local developmentally-challenged adults. Extended hours thru Dec 23: Mon/Tue 10am-3pm. Wed-Fri til 7pm. Sat & Sun 12pm-5pm. 3245 16th St. 863-2108. www.creativityexplored.org

Home Is Where the Heat Is @ Oddball Films

Composer Donghoon Han performs a live music score set to historic local home movie footage made by Chinese and Korean Americans, plus other historic Asian film shorts. $10. 8pm. 275 Capp St. 558-8117. www.oddballfilms.blogspot.com  

Open @ Shotwell Studios

Jeff Bedillion's sexy comedy about a straight couple who decide to try having an open relationship, both with men! $20. Fri, Sat & Mon 8pm. Thru Dec 17. 3252-A 19th St. 289-2000. www.ftloose.org

Out of Character @ Asian Art Museum

Decoding Chinese Calligraphy, an 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

Pal Joey @ Eureka Theatre

42nd Street Moon's production of the classic Rodgers & Hart musical (with book by John O'Hara) about a charming "heel" with big plans to make it in the Chicago nightclub scene. $25-$75. Wed 7pm. Thu & Fri 8pm. Sat 6pm. Sun 3pm. Thru Dec. 16. 215 Jackson St. 255-8207. www.42ndstmoon.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

San Francisco Ballet @ War Memorial Opera House

The acclaimed dance company performs Tchaikovsky's holiday ballet, The Nutcracker. $20-$165. 7pm. Tue-Sun 2pm & 7pm. Additional times. LGBT Nite Out Dec 14, 7pm. Thru Dec 28. 301 Van Ness Ave. 865-2000.  www.sfballet.org

Smuin Ballet @ YBCA

The Christmas Ballet, the late Michael Smuin's holiday work, with updates by Amy Seiwart and other choreographers. LGBT Night Out   Dec 20; $10 of tickets benefit the Trevor Project. $25-$65. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sat & Sun 2pm. Thru Dec 23. Novellus Theatre, 701 Mission St. 912-1899.  www.smuinballet.org   www.ybca.org

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

Whiskerman, Shake Your Peace @ Inner Mission

Concert fundraiser for efforts to enact a statewide ban on fracking, the destructive oil and gas drilling procees. $10-$15. 8pm. 2050 Bryant St (former CellSpace). www.bit.ly/frackingconcert

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. Extended thru Dec 30. Special events thru run. Roda Theatre, 2025 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 647-2949. www.berkeleyrep.org

Workout! @ CounterPulse

Sebastian Grubb's physically rigorous   new work is performed by six dancers. Also, "The Narrowing," his duet with AXIS Dance co-member Joel Brown. $20. 8pm. Thru Dec 16. 1310 Mission St. at 9th.  www.sebastiangrubb.com    www.counterpulse.org

Woyzeck @ Ashby Stage, Berkeley

Shotgun Players' production of Robert Wilson's re-conceived musical revision of Georg Buchner's stage play, with music and lyrics by Tom Waits and Kathleen Brennan; a tragic tale about a soldier who returns home to find his girl is having an affair. $25-$35. Wed & Thu 7pm. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sun 5pm. Thru Jan 27. 1901 Ashby Ave., Berkeley. (510) 841-6500. www.shotgunplayers.org

Sat 15

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

Exhibit and holiday sale of art made by adults with developmental disabilities; all priced from $15-$150. 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

Bell, Book and Candle @ SF Playhouse

Romantic comedy about a mortal man and a witch (the play and film inspired Bewitched). $25-$30. Tue-Thu 7pm. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sun 3pm. Thru Jan 19. 450 Post St. above Farallon Restaurant. www.sfplayhouse.org

Butch Voices @ City College

Community Conversations series hosts a panel session with organizers and participants in the the upcoming Butch Voices conference. 10am-3pm. Free. 50 Phelan Ave. RSVP: registration@BUTCHVoices.com

Crones for the Holidays @ Stage Werx

Terry Baum and Carolyn Myers' sketch comedy and improv show with lesbian wit, that pokes fun of holiday silliness. $15-$20. Sat 3pm & 8pm. Sun 3pm. Thru Dec 30. 446 Valencia St at 16th. (800) 838-3006. www.crackpotcrones.com

Dancing in the Dragon's Jaws: Gay San Francisco, 1985-1988 @ SF Public Library

Thomas Alleman's exhibit of fascinating new large-print photos from San Francisco's mid-1980s gay community, from the onslaught of AIDS to nightlife and arts celebrations. Exhibit thru Feb 10, 2013. Jewitt Gallery, lower level, 100 Larkin St. at Grove. www.allemanphoto.com www.sfpl.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

Holiday Leather Brunch @ The Edge

Enjoy a Southern brunch buffet and a Stoli cocktail, entertainment, an auction and raffle, host Michael Brandon and Donna Sachet at this fundraiser for Positive Resource Center. $20. 11am-2pm. 3139 18th St. www.qbarsf.com/EDGE/

Max Voltage @ Dolores Park Cafe

Portland-based drag king musician previews songs from Homomentum the Musical, a campy gender-bending scifi romp. $5-$10. 7:30pm. 501 Dolores St. www.pantsoffpdx.com www.doloresparkcafe.com

Jasper Johns, Jay DeFeo @ SF MOMA

Two exhibits of the American artists' works. Thru Feb 3. Also, Paul Klee's Circus, Alessandro Pessoli, the photo exhibit South Africa in Apartheid and After (Thru Mar 3), 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

Maria Muldaur @ The Rrazz Room

Pop R&B singer performs her upbeat "Christmas at the Oasis" show. $35. 9pm. Also dec 16, 7pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

The Marvelous Wonderettes @ New Conservatory Theatre Center

NCTC's production of the upbeat hit Off-Broadway musical about three women in the late 1950s who reminisce while singing '50s and early '60s pop tunes. $22-$50 (fun-pack). Wed-Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm. Thru Jan 13. 25 Van Ness Ave., lower level. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.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

Nightcap @ ODC Dance Commons

61st Pilot Program, showcasing young choreographers' works: Jenni Bregman, David Schleiffers, Katharine Hawthorne, Erin Malley, Liz Tenuto and Phoebe Osborne. $12. 8pm. Also Dec 16. 351 Shotwell Studios, #B. 863-9834. www.odctheater.org

The Nightmare We Call Christmas @ Castro Theatre

Screening of the Tim Burton film Edward Scissorhands, with Peaches Christ and her drag gaggle of freaks doing a pre-show. $20-$45. 8pm. 429 Castro St. www.peacheschrist.com www.castrotheatre.com

Nutcracker Sweets @ Southside Theater

Mark Foehringer's fourth annual production of his mirthful contemporary ballet take on the Tchaikovsky ballet, with a live abbreviated score (50 minutes). $25. Also Dec. 16, 22 & 23. Sun 11am & 2pm; Sat also 4pm. Fort Mason Center, Landmark Bldg. D, 3rd floor. Marina Blvd at Buchanan. www.mfdpsf.org www.fortmason.org

Paula Poundstone @ Palace of Fine Arts

Veteran comic performs her stand-up act, while sitting down. $38. 8pm. 3301 Lyon St. (800) 745-3000. www.palaceoffinearts.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

Prosecute George W. Bush for Murder
@ Unitarian Universalists Hall, Berkeley

Bush knowingly lied about WMDs and other facts about Iraq, resulting in the deaths of over four thousand Americans and over one million Iraqis. John Henneberry will present the case. $5-$10. 7pm. 1924 Cedar St. at Bonita, Berkeley. www.prosecutebush.org www.bfuu.org

Punk Rock X-mas @ Midnight Sun

Princess Kennedy (of Trannyshack and PepperSpray band fame) returns to SF for a one-night show of songs and holiday raucous fun with her band, The Yule-tards. No cover. 9pm-2am. 21+. 4067 18th St. www.midnightsunsf.com

Really Rosie @ New Conservatory Theatre Center

Carole King's musical adaptation of the popular Maurice Sendak children's book series Nutshell Kids, about some imaginative Brooklyn children; performed by NCTC's Youth Conservatory Program. Sat 2pm & 4pm. Sun 2pm. Thru Jan 13. 25 Van Ness Ave., lower level. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.org

Royal Treasures from the Louvre @ Legion of Honor

Exhibit of decorative arts, most never seen in the U.S., from the reigns 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. 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

Twas the Night Before Hannukkah @ Bricks and Mortar

Contributors to the new 2-CD set Twas The Night Before Hanukkah: The Musical Battle Between Christmas and the Festival of Lights, perform live, including Sway Machinery Featuring Jeremiah Lockwood, Luther Dickinson (North Mississippi All-Stars, Black Crowes), Thao, Rebecca Bortman, Ethan Miller (Howlin' Rain, Comets on Fire), Lyn Burton (of the Burton Sisters), Zach Rogue, Ceci Bastida, Steve Berlin (Los Lobos) and members of Antibalas. $15-$18. 9pm. 1710 Mission St. 800-8782. www.brickandmortarmusic.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

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 16

Baroque Music @ St. Mary Magdalen Church, Berkeley

Music of Charpentier, Boeddeker, Buxtehude, Victoria and Josquin des Prez, St Mary Magdalen Festival Choir and Baroque Ensemble with Luciana Miranda, soprano; Laryssa Sadoway, mezzo-soprano; Sylvia Cooper O'Daniel, alto; Michael Kim, tenor; Max Ziff, bass; Andy Canepa, conducting. $10-$20. 7pm. 2005 Berryman St., Berkeley. (510) 526-4811. www.marymagdalen.org

Count Basie Orchestra @ Davies Symphony Hall

Enjoy swing classics and holiday hits performed by the acclaimed orchestra. $15-$70. 7:30pm. 201 Van Ness Ave. 864-6000. www.sfsymphony.org

David Barnett @ Castro Country Club

Exhibit of landscape and pet paintings by the local gay artist. Sales benefit the artist and the CCC; pet portrait commissions also available. Exhibit through Jan 18. 4058 18th St. www.DavidBarnettArt.com www.CastroCountryClub.org

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/

Lesbian/Gay Chorus of San Francisco @ Martuni's

Enjoy the vocal ensemble's Shameless Show of Holiday Shite: A Sequel. 4pm. Also Dec 17, 7pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.lgcsf.org

Norman Vane @ Martuni's

Cabaret singer performs The Barbra Streisand Christmas Album, with guests Ethel Merman and Sheelagh Murphy; Joe Wicht accompanies. $7. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. www.facebook.com/events/211810172287150

Pamela Rose @ The Rrazz Room

Jazz singer performs a tribute to women composers in her show, "Wild Women of Song." $30. 3pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Santa Skivvies Run @ Lookout

Fourth annual fun run (in minimal holiday undergarments) fundraiser for the San Francisco AIDS Foundation starts and ends at the gay bar with a great view. $35 to participate; free to watch. 1pm. 3600 16th St. Register online at www.santaskivviesrun.org

Scrooge and Marley, Hannah Free @ Castro Theatre

Screening fo two indie gay-themed films; a modern take on A Christmas Carol ($10, 3:15pm), and the lesbian romance starring Sharon Gless. ($8, 1pm). 429 Castro St. www.scroogeandmarleymovie.com

SF Hiking Club @ Waterfront

Join GLBT hikers for an 11-mile hike from the Ferry Building along the Embarcadero through Fisherman's Wharf and up over the hill at Fort Mason; then lunch and onto Lands End via the Coastal Trail before arriving at Ocean Beach. Meet 9:30am in front of the Ferry Building. Bring water, lunch, layers, sunscreen, hat, comfortable walking shoes. 852-0875. www.sfhiking.com

Something Cool @ Martuni's

Listening party for singer Veronica Klaus' new CD Something Cool, and a benefit for the Rainbow World Fund. Donations. 4pm-6pm. 4 Valencia St. www.veronicaklaus.net www.rainbowfund.org

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

Turkey Pluck @ Phone Booth Bar

Fundraiser with paper turkeys; pluck a wing and win a raffle prize or a free drink. $1 per "turkey." 4pm-9pm. Proceeds benefit the Mission SRO Collaborative. 1398 South Van Ness Ave. at 25th. 648-4683. www.dscs.org

Mon 17

Adrianna Bozzi @ Magnet

Exhibit of bold male nudes by the Argentinian painter. Thru Dec. 4122 18th St. www.adrianabozzi.com www.magnetsf.org

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

Katya Smirnoff-Skyy @ The Rrazz Room

Our favorite Russian exiled drag empress performs her "Holiday Spectacular." $30. 8pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

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

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

Schmaltz! @ Ashby Stage, Berkeley

Shotgun Players hosts a "Genius of Barry Manilow Holiday Sing-along" to the pianist-songwriter's pop music hits. $15. 8pm. 1901 Ashby Ave., (510) 841-6500. www.shotgunplayers.org

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

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

Ten Percent @ Comcast 104

David Perry's talk show about LGBT people and issues. Mon-Fri 11:30am & 10:30pm. Sat & Sun 10:30pm. www.comcasthometown.com

Tue 18

The Book of Mormon @ Curran Theatre

South Park duo's beyond-sold-out hit musical parody of a certain flyover state's religion. $29 (lottery tix) -$200. Thru Dec. 30. 445 Geary St. (888) 746-1799. www.bookofmormonthemusical.com www.shnsf.com

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

El Vez @ The Independent

The Latin Elvis brings on the Mex-mas, his wacky musical holiday-themed show, with his band and back-up singers. $15-$17. 21+. 8pm. 628 Divisadero. www.elvez.net www.theindependentsf.com

Feast of Words @ SOMArts Cultural Center

Discover local chefs and writers, this month with poet Nic Alea ("All Trees, No Pianos") and artisan soup chef Jane Lin of Mama Tong Soup. Guest can bring a dish, and share their writing. Lex Leifheit hosts. $5-$12. Cash bar, too. 7pm. 934 Brannan St. at 9th. 863-1414. www.somarts.org

Fernando Reyes @ Nieto Fine Art

Exhibit of the artist's colorful figure studies and drawings. Thru Jan 7. 565 Sutter St. 393-4511. www.nietofineart.com

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

Jackie Beat @ Rebel

LA's caustically funny drag queen performs "Come They Told Me" a naughty holiday show. $26. 7pm & 9:30pm. Also dec 19. 1760 Market St. www.MissJackieBeat.com www.rebel-sf.com

Leslie Jordan @ The Rrazz Room

The diminuitive actor (Will & Grace) with a big talent performs his autobiographical show, Fruit Fly. $40-$45. Dec 18-21, 8pm. Dec 22, 7pm & 9:30pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Mark Johnson @ Martuni's

Jazz vocalist/pianist performs jazz, bossa nova classics and original songs, with bassist Dan Keller. $8. 7pm. 4 Valencia St.

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

Visual Aid Holiday Party @ Varnish Fine Art

Holiday fundraiser for the arts nonprofit, with cocktails, wine, hors d'eouvres, desserts, and plenty of local artists to meet. $50-$200. 6pm-9pm. 16 Jessie St. 777-8242. www.visualaid.org

Wed 19

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

Dance Brigade @ Dance Mission Theater

Krissy Keefer's political-spiritual dance company performs Voluspa: A Ghost Dance for 2012, a ritual dance performance inspired by Mayan and other ancient cultures. $12-$20. Wed & Thu 7:30pm. Thru Dec 20. 3316 24th St. 826-4441. www.dancemission.com

Double Features @ Castro Theatre

Noir City Xmas with Holiday Affair (7:30) and Lady in the Lake (9:30). Dec 20, The Apartment (2:15, 7pm) and Three Days of the Condor (4:40, 9:20). $8.50-$12. 429 Castro St. www.castrotheatre.com

John Waguespack @ 111 Minna Gallery

Large-scale pop culture icon portraits and paintings by the local artist. Thru Jan. 26. Wed-Fri 12pm-5pm. 111 Minna St. 974-1719. www.111minnagallery.com/2012/new-works-by-john-waguespack/

Judy Collins @ Davies Symphony Hall

The veteran vocalist performs holidays standards, her own hits and other songs with the San Francisco Symphony, Rob Fisher conducting. $15-$72. 7:30pm. 201 Van Ness Ave. 864-6000. www.sfsymphony.org

Rufus & Martha Wainwright's Christmas 101 @ Fox Theatre, Oakland

Holiday-themed music concert of traditional and modern carols and holiday songs features guests Emmylou Harris, Maria Muldaur, Van Dyke Parks and Wainwright friends and family. Proceeds benefit the Kate McGarrigle Foundation. $45-$65. Gala tickets $166. 8pm. 1807 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. www.thefoxoakland.com

The Santaland Diaries @ Eureka Theatre

David Dinaiko performs Joe Mantello's stage adaptation of the popular David Sedaris short story. $20-$50. 8pm. Thru Dec 29 (no show Dec 25). 215 Jackson St. (800) 838-3006. www.combinedartform.com www.theeruekatheatre.org

Thu 20

Comedy Bodega @ Esta Nocha

The weekly LGBT and indie comic stand-up night. This week, a benefit for Muttville Senior Dog RescueFeaturing Morgan, Anna Seregina, Jesse Elias, Lisa Geduldig8pm-9:30pm. 3079 16th St. at Mission. www.comedybodega.com

Ezra Jack Keats @ Contemporary Jewish Museum

The Snowy Day and the Art of Exra Jack Keats, an exhibit of original artwork from the popular children's book author/illustrator. Thru Feb 24. Also, The Radical Camera: New York's Photo League, a 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 (California Dreaming and Black Sabbath ) ongoing. Free (members)-$12. Thu-Tue 11am-5pm (Thu 1pm-8pm) 736 Mission St. 655-7800. www.thecjm.org

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

Justin Vivian Bond @ The Rrazz Room

The transcontinental sensation returns with a new show, Snow Angel. $30. 10pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (800) 380-3095. www.TheRrazzRoom.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

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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