Are fairy tales just stories with a great hook line, or is there something real underneath those fictions that strikes our hearts? This week, in art, on screen in 3D, and onstage (the original 3D), popular fables and fictions take a decidedly deviant turn.
Tim Burton's flair for a fable becomes curiouser and curiouser in Alice in Wonderland, opening March 5 at The Castro Theatre. Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, and Ann Hathaway star in a wild vision of Lewis Carroll's tale of a girl who falls down a rabbit hole and ends up in royal intrigue; in 3D (free glasses). $8-$10. 1pm, 4pm, 7pm, 9:45. Thru April 1 (no screenings Mar. 11, 14). 429 Castro St. 621-6120. www.castrotheatre.com
If you're an Easterling, the March 5 Oakland screening of Burton's Alice is also a day-long celebration and fundraiser for Arts and Literacy in Children's Education ALICE). See it and support literacy for kiddies, which includes fairy tale story time, one hopes. $10. 11:30am, 2:00pm, 4:30pm, 7:15pm, 9:45pm. March 5, Grand Lake Cinema, 3200 Grand Ave. www.alicearts.org
art: Melissa Steckbauer
Tale as old as time, song as old as rhyme, Beauty and the Beast, or so sang the furniture. At the March 5 opening reception of Bestiary at Femina Potens, you might hum a different tune. Artists Melissa Steckbauer, Molly Schafer, Danielle de Picciotto and Monica Canilao share their visions of carnal mythology. Free. Artist panel at 6pm, reception 7:30pm. Thru Mar. 28. 2199 Market St. at Sanchez. 864-1558. www.feminapotens.org
Once upon a time, a soldier, a princess and a runaway band of actors took on a cold industrial city in The Gilded, Reynaldi Lolong's new musical set in a futuristic steampunk world. $18-$30. Thu 7pm. Fri-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru Mar. 7 at Thick House, 1695 18th St. at Arkansas. (800) 838-3006. www.thegilded.com
Meet soldiers, mermaids, and unicorns in O Lovely Glowworm at Zeum Theater, American Conservatory Theatre's MFA Program student performance of Glen Berger's imaginative play, set in World War I Ireland, about a fantastical quest for meaning. $15-$20. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru March 20. Yerba Buena Gardens, 4th St. at Howard. 749-2228. www.act-sf.org
Crave a gothic scare? The Sugar Witch, Nathan Sanders' Southern tale of a cursed farm family with dark secrets, runs through April 11 at New Conservatory Theatre. $14-$40. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. 25 Van Ness Ave, lower level. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.orgÂ
Once upon a time, animators actually drew each frame. See pre-CGI Tolkein in The Hobbit, the 1977 Rankin/Bass animated adaptation of the popular prequel to The Lord of the Rings trilogy; plus animated short films. $10. Sat., March 6. 8:30pm. Oddball Film, 275 Capp St. 558-8117. www.oddballfilm.com
Find your Prince �" or Princess�" Charming at the Pageant Queen Flash Mob at Union Square Saturday, March 6, Restore Equality's fairy invasion event to repeal Prop 8. Beauty pageant dragsters are encouraged to show up downtown, in response to the preponderance of antigay dunce-like real (except the boobs) beauty pageant contestants. 11am-2pm. near Union Square. www.restoreequality2010.com Â
Mythos in tiles -with a gay erotic style- comprise some of Michael Kruzich's art at Sweet Inspiration. Sunday, March 7 is the opening reception for the artist's exhibit of mosaics based on photos and ancient art. 4pm-6pm. Thru May 1. 2239 Market St. www.mkmosaics.com
Thu 4
California Academy of Sciences
@ Golden Gate Park
Completely new science museum, with an aquarium, planetarium and natural history exhibits, and an all-green (eco-friendly) design. New evening parties each Thursday, with music, cash bar, entertainment, and guest lectures. $10. 18+. 6pm-10pm. Reg. $15-$25. 55 Music Concourse Drive. 379-8000. www.calacademy.org
Candidate Forum @ Sports Basement
Meet the candidates running for District 6 Supervisor seat. Ask how SoMa would or could be improved. Free. 7pm. 1590 St.
Heidi McDowell @ Visual Aid
Opening reception for an exhibit of California landscapes. 5pm-7:30pm. Reg, hours 2pm-6pm Mon-Fri. Thru Mar. 26. 57 Post St. Suite 905. www.visualaid.org
Human Rights and Film @ Yerba Buena Arts Center
Weekly series of features about human rights. Thursdays thru Mar. 28. $6-$8. 7:30pm. 701 Mission st. www.ybca.org
I Am a Man
@ Mama Calizo's Voice Factory
Dazié Rustin Grego's solo poetry performance focusing on gay masculinity. $20. Thu-Sat 8pm. Thru March 6. 1519 Mission St. at 11th. (800) 838-3006. www.mcvf.org Â
Mahalia: A Gospel Musical
@ Lorraine Hansberry Theatre
Tom Stolz new musical about the life of celebrated singer Mahalia Jackson, with Jeanie Tracy in the lead role, and the theatre company in its new performing space. $18-$40. Thu-Sat 8pm. Sun 4pm. Thru March 7. 474-8800. www.LHTSF.org
La Maison de Himiko @ VIZ Cinema
West Coast premiere of a new film about a senior gay Japanese man confronting his homophobic daughter at his LGBT retirement home. $8-$10. Various times. Thru Mar. 4. 1746 Post St. www.newpeopleworld.com Â
James Magruder @ Books Inc.
Author of Sugarless reads from and discusses his wryly comic novel about a suburban gay teen who surprises himself and the forensics geeks by becoming a hit with his 8-minute dramatic interpretation of The Boys in the Band. Free. 7:30pm. 2275 Market St. at Noe. 864-6777. www.booksinc.net
Other Minds 15 @ Jewish Community Center
15th annual mini-festival of contemporary composers, from acoustic, to jazz, electronic and hybrid forms. Featuring Natasha Barrett, Chou Wen-chung, Gyan Riley, Pawel Mykietyn and more. $25-$150 (full series). Thru Mar. 6. 8pm concerts, 7pm panels. 3200 California St. 292-1233. www.otherminds.org
Precious @ Red Vic Movie House
Oscar-nominated film based on the Sapphire novel, about an impoverished young Black girl's struggle. $6-$9. 7pm, 9:20pm. Also Sat 2pm, 4:20pm. Thru March 6. 1727 Haight St. 668-3994. www.redvicmoviehouse.com Â
Suppressed, Silenced and Shunned
@ GLBT Historical Society
Dr. Susan Eischeid presents a talk about "The Story of the Pink Triangle in Hitler's Reich." Free. 6pm.-8pm. 657 Mission st. at 3rd, 3rd floor. www.glbthistory.org
Team SF Meeting @ Chase Bank Meeting Room
General membership meeting for the LGBT sports organization. Make plans for Gay Games VIII in Cologne, and upcoming local events. Free/membership. 6:30pm. Market St. at Sanchez & 15th St. www.teamsf.org
Fri 5
Alice in Wonderland @ Castro Theatre
Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, Ann Hathaway and others star in Tim Burton's wild take on Lewis Carroll's tale of a girl who falls down a rabbit hole and ends up in royal intrigue; in 3D, too (free glasses). $8-$10. 1pm, 4pm, 7pm, 9:45. Thru April 1 (no screenings Mar. 11, 14). 429 Castro St. 621-6120. www.castrotheatre.com
The Art of Emily: A Strange Collection @ Gallery Extrana, Berkeley
Artist's reception (Rob Reger, Buzz Parker and other contributors) at the exhibit of prints and original art from the Emily Strange Dark Horse books graphic novels. Co-authors spins tunes, T-shirts and signed books for sale. 6pm-10pm. Thru April 10. 2912 Telegraph Ave. www.emilystrange.com www.galleryextrana.blogspot.com
Ascendance Project
@ Ashby Stage, Berkeley
Performer and mountaineer Isabel von Rittberg's fascinating new group dances based on rock-climbing risks, skills, and movement. $10-$25. 8pm. Also March 6, 12, 13. And Mar. 14 at 3pm. 1901 Ashby Ave. (510) 225-8844. www.ascendanceproject.com  Â
Band of the Irish Guards @ Marin Center
The Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Guards perform stately traditional music in full uniform. $18-$55. 8pm. 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. 499-6800. www.marincenter.org
Bay Area One-Acts Festival @ Boxcar Theatre
9th annual festival of eleven short plays by local playwrights. $12-$24. Various times. Thru Mar. 13. 505 Natoma St. 776-7427. www.threewisemonkeys.org Â
Beebo Brinker Chronicles
@ Brava Theater Center
West Coast premiere of Kate Moira Ryan & Linda S. Chapman's stage adaptation of Ann Bannon's classic lesbian novels. $20-$30. Thu-Sun 8pm. (Mar 7, 3pm). Thru Mar. 13. 2781 24th St. 641-2822. www.brava.org
Bestiary @ Femina Potens
Opening reception of an exhibit of women's erotica by Melissa Steckbauer, Molly Schafer, Danielle de Picciotto and Monica Canilao with a carnal mythology. Free. Artist panel 6pm. reception 7:30pm. Thru Mar. 28. 2199 Market St. at Sanchez. 864-1558. www.feminapotens.org
The Caucasian Chalk Circle
@ American Conservatory Theatre
John Doyle (director of recent updated stagings of Company and Sweeney Todd) takes on Bertolt Brecht's masterpiece about a servant girl in a war-torn country, an abandoned baby, and a corrupt judge. $10-$82. Tue-Sat 8pm. Wed, Sat, Sun 2pm. Thru Mar. 14. 415 Geary St. 749-2228. www.act-sf.org Â
Cultural Encounters @ de Young Museum
Friday night events return, with parties, presentations, panels and, well... partying. Free (museum admission $10-$27) 5pm-8:45pm. Golden Gate Park. www.famsf.orgÂ
Doubt, A Parable @ New Conservatory Theatre Center
Oscar-nominated John Patrick Shanley's drama about a scandal at a private Catholic school in 1960s New York City. $22-$40. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru March 6. 25 Van Ness Ave, lower level. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.org
of a Reluctant Player
East 14th, True Tales of a Reluctant Player @ The Marsh Berkeley
Don Reed's about a god-fearing church boy who finds out his father's a pimp. $20-$35. Fri 9pm, Sun 7pm. Thru Mar. 28. 2120 Allston Way. (800) 838-3006. www.themarsh.org
The Gilded @ Thick House
Reynaldi Lolong's new musical set in a futuristic steampunk world, about a soldier, princess and runaway band of actors versus a cold industrial city. $18-$30. Thu 7pm. Fri-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru Mar. 7. 1695 18th St. at Arkansas. (800) 838-3006. www.thegilded.com
Global Lives Project @ Yerba Buena Arts Center
Collaborative exhibit of filmmakers, photographers, artists and everyday people working together to create a video library of human life experience. The show features 240 hours of video of Brazil, Malawi, Japan, China, Indonesia, India, Serbia, Lebanon, Kazakhstan and the US. $8-$12. Thru June 20. 701 Mission St. 978-2787. www.globallives.org   www.ybcafree.org
The Human Figure @ John Pence Gallery
Group exhibit of realist painters' portraits, nudes, sculptures and other works. Mon-Fri 10am-6pm (Sat til 5pm) thru April 10. 750 Post St. 441-1138. www.johnpence.com
Man-I-Fest @ GLBT Historical Society
Opening reception for a new exhibit of letters and documents by FTM transgender pioneer Lou Harrison and friends. Free. 6pm.-8pm. 657 Mission st. at 3rd, 3rd floor. www.glbthistory.org
Monster Drawing Rally @ Verdi Club
Southern Exposure's 10th annual massive artist-fest of handmade drawings done on the spot (purchase for $60); your choice of 130 artists. Music by DJ Frau Holly, bike parking, beer, tacos. $10 and up. 6pm-11pm. 2424 Mariposa St.  www.soex.org
Oedipus el Rey @ Magic Theatre
Luis Alfaro's updated Latino version of Sophocles' tragedy, re-set in modern California prisons, highways and cities, with a live musical chorus, and gorgeous Joshua Torrez in the lead role. $20-$55. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm-7pm. Thru March 14. Bldg. D, Fort Mason center, Marina Blvd at Buchanan. www.magictheatre.org Â
O Lovely Glowworm @ Zeum Theater
American Conservatory Theatre's MFA Program student perform Glen Berger's imaginative play set in World War I Ireland, with soldiers, mermaids, unicorns and others set on a fantastical quest for meaning. $15-$20. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru March 20. Yerba Buena Gardens, 4th St. at Howard. 749-2228. www.act-sf.org
Plastic Camera Show @ Rayko Photo
Group exhibit of unusually creative images created with cheap disposable cameras, including the work of Czech artist Michael Borek. Tue-Thu 10am-10pm. Fri-Sun 10am-8pm. Thru April 17. 428 3rd St. www.raykophoto.com Â
A Prophet @ Embarcadero Cinema
Jacques Audiard's film about an Arab criminal who rises among the ranks of prisoners to become a gang operative. $8.25-$10.50. Â 1 Embarcadero Center. 267-4893. www.sonyclassics.com www.landmarktheatres.com
The Real Americans @ The Marsh
Dan Hoyle (Tings Dey Happen) premieres a new multiple-character solo show based on his road trip to Middle America to explore the profound disconnect in a politically polarized country. $15-$50. Thu-Fri 8pm. Sat 5pm. Thru April 18. 1062 Valencia St. at 21st. (800) 838-3006. www.themarsh.org Â
Reply @ The Garage
Tableau Stations, Floor of Sky present dance works made through a series of tableaux, combined with video to explore place and placelessness. $10-$20. 8pm. Also Mar 6, 8pm. Mar. 7, 4pm. 975 Howard St. 885-4006. www.975howard.com
Richard Dodds @ Magnet
Opening reception for an exhibit of fascinating faux-vintage gay erotica paintings by the BAR theatre critic. 8pm. Thru March. 4122 18th St. at Castro. www.magnetsf.orgÂ
Suddenly, Last Summer @ Actors Theatre
Tennessee Williams' psychological stage play about a "mad" girl, her delusional mom and a curious doctor, and Sebastian, the offstage dead gay guy. $14-$40. Thu-Sat 8pm. 855 Bush St. 345-1287. www.actorstheatresf.org
The Sugar Witch @ New Conservatory Theatre
Nathan Sanders' Southern Gothic tale of a cursed farm family with dark secrets. $14-$40. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru April 11. 25 Van Ness Ave, lower level. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.org Â
Sat 6
Beach Blanket Babylon @ Club Fugazi
Musical comedy revue, now in its 35th year, with ever-changing lineup of political and pop culture icons, all in gigantic wigs. $25-$80. Wed, Thu 8pm. Fri, Sat 6:30, 9:30pm. Sun 2pm, 5pm. (Beer/wine served; cash only). 678 Beach Blanket Babylon Blvd. 421-4222. www.beachblanketbabylon.com
Bearracuda @ Deco Lounge
Strip down for another Underbear undies night; briefs, jocks, longjohns, whatever. Clothes check, massages, munchies, patio, DJs Medic and 50 Pound Note. $5-$7. 9pm-3am. 510 Larkin st. at Turk. www.bearracuda.com
Cesar's Latin All Stars @ Metronome Dance Center
Weekly live music by the orchestra, with salsa, Latin and other dance instruction and open dancing for same-sex and opposite-sex couples. $8-$12. 9pm-2am. Also Saturdays. 1830 17th St. at DeHaro. 252-9000. www.metronomedancecenter.com Â
Cirque du Soleil @ San Jose
Montreal circus' show Ovo, about insects, plays in the South Bay. $45-$135. Tue-Sat 8pm. Also Fri-Sat 4pm, Sun 1pm, 5pm. Thru March 21. Taylor St. Bridge at Highway 87. (800) 450-1480. www.cirquedusoleil.com
from the Distant West
Concerning Strange Devices from
the Distant West @ Berkeley Repertory
World premiere of a new play by Naomi Iizuka about how 1880s photography drastically changed how we see foreign cultures. $14-$71. Tue�"Sat 8pm (Wed Sun 7pm), also Thu Sat Sun 2pm. Roda Theatre, 2015 Addison St. www.berkeleyrep.org
Pageant Queen Flash Mob
@ Union Square
Restore Equality's fairy invasion fundraiser to repeal Prop 8. Beauty pageant dragsters are encouraged to show up downtown en masse, in response to the preponderance of antigay duncelike real �"and faker, like, more fake than any drag queen- beauty pageant contestants. 11am-2pm. near Union Square. www.restoreequality2010.com Â
The Hobbit @ Oddball Film
Screening of the 1977 Rankin/Bass animated adaptation of the popular J.R.R. Tolkein book, plus animated short films. $10. 8:30pm. 275 Capp St. 558-8117. www.oddballfilm.com
The Importance of Being Earnest
@ Town Hall Theatre, Lafayette
East Bay production of Oscar Wilde's Victorian satire of manners. $22-$30. Thu-Sat 8pm. Thru Mar. 27. 3535 School St. (925) 283-1557. www.TownHallTheatre.com
Pastor Tom Show @ KUSF
Dr. Tom Polcari's LGBT music and talk show. 4pm. Weekly on 90.3 FM.
Pearls Over Shanghai @ The Hypnodrome
Thrillpeddlers' revival of the comic mock operetta by Link Martin and Richard Koldewyn, performed by the gender-bending Cockettes decades ago, and loosely based on the 1926 play The Shanghai Gesture. $30-$69. 8pm. Extended, Fri & Sat thru April 24. 575 10th. (800) 838-3006. www.thrillpeddlers.com
Point Break Live @ Metreon Action Theater
Ridiculous live staged version of the surfer-bank robber movie, where a chosen audience member plays Keanu Reeves' role with cue cards. Warning; wear cheap clothes. Rain tarps provided, but you will get wet and/or fake-bloody. $25. 9pm. Fri & Sat. Open run. (866) 811-4111. www.pointbreaklivesf.com
Roller Derby @ Kezar Stadium
San Francisco Bay Bombers vs. the Brooklyn Red Devils. Buy tickets from coach Dave Marez, which benefit his AIDS Life/Cycle Ride. $15. 7:30pm. 755 Stanyan St. www.arsdbombers.com
Sacred & Profane
@ St. Francis Lutheran Church
Chamber chorus performs Samuel Barber's Reincarnations, Morten Lauridsen's Fire Song Madrigals, and other works. $15-$20. 8pm. 152 Church St. at Duboce. Also Mar. 7, 4pm. at St. Mark's Episocopal, 2300 Bancroft Way. (510) 524-3611. www.sacredprofane.org
SF Gay Men's Chorus @ Marines Memorial Theatre
Lights, Camera, Action!, an evening of memorable music from the silver screen, performed by SFGMC's specialty ensembles The Lollipop Guild and Vocal Minority. Proceeds benefit The Academy of Friends and will help to raise funds for Bay Area HIV/AIDS service organizations. $27-$39. 4pm, 8pm. 609 Sutter St. 771-6900. Â www.sfgmc.org
Singin' in the Rain @ Berkeley Playhouse
Stage adaptation of the classic musical film about the hilarious clash of sound movies, big egos, and dancing performers. $19-$28. Fri-Sun 8pm. some Thursdays. Thru March 21. Julia Morgan Center for the Arts, 2640 College Ave. www.berkeleyplayhouse.org
Teatro Zinzanni @ Pier 29
Hearts on Fire is the new show at the theatre-tent-dinner extravaganza with new guest chanteuse Thelma Houston, comic singer El Vez, singer Christine Deaver, plus magic, comedy, aerial acts, a five-course dinner, and a lot of fun. $117-$145. Saturday 11:30am "Breve" show $63--$78. Wed-Sat 6pm (Sun 5pm). Pier 29 at Embarcadero Ave. 438-2668. www.teatrozinzanni.com  Â
Various Exhibits @ SF MOMA
Modern art museum celebrates its 75th anniversary. Among the ongoing exhibits: Long Play: Bruce Connor and the Singles Collection (amazing film collages), The View From Here (San Francisco photography), Ewan Gibbs' San Francisco landscape drawings, painter Luc Tuymans, and a rotating permanent "classic modern" collection. Free-$15. 151 Third St. at Mission. 357-4000.  www.sfmoma.org
Alternorthern @ The Lab
Group exhibit of Canadian artists, including a strange video of 13-year-old Vincent Chevalier portraying a gay man with HIV (years abefore he came out or seroconverted), and Zoe Yuristy's figurines exploring cliches of masculinity. Wed-Sat., 1pm-6pm. Thru March 6. 2948 16th St. 864-8855. Â www.thelab.org
Who You Callin' Queer? @ LGBT Center
Group exhibit of interactive multimedia art by Sarah Dopp, Martin Rawlings-Fein and Tee J. Tagor focusing on gender and nonviolence.  Thru Mar. 6. 1800 Market St. at Octavia. www.underminingviolence.org  www.sfcenter.org
Wicked @ Orpheum Theatre
Mega-hit musical �"based on the book about the two famous Oz witches as young college roommates. $30-$99. Tue-Sat 8pm. Wed, Sat, Sun 2pm. Sun 7:30pm. Open run. www.shnsf.com  Also, Behind the Emerald Curtain, a behind-the-scenes tour led by cast members Nicolas Drummard and Jonathan Ritter, each Saturday at 10am at the Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market St. at 8th. $30. 512- 7770. www.emeraldcurtain.com
Sun 7
Academy Awards Party @ Trigger
Betty's List hosts a fundraiser for Lyon-Martin women's Health Center and the Red Cross Haiti Relief Fund. Enjoy champagne, copcktails, hors d'oeuvres; wear Oscar-worthy evening wear or costumes, and watch the Oscars on a big screen TV. Sen. Mark Leno, Supe. Bevan Dufty and Donna Sachet cohost. $10-$50 and up. 3pm. 2344 Market St. 551-CLUB. www.clubtrigger.com
Academy of Friends Gala @ Fort Mason
30th annual Academy Awards-viewing event, Behind the Seams: a Salute to Fashion in Film showcases Oscar-worthy costumes; drinks, hors d'eouvres, auction and raffle items, plus live entertainment. $250 and up. 5pm. Buchanan at Bay St. www.academyoffriends.org
Bill Bowers @ Glama-Rama Salon
Apocalypse of the Moon, an exhibit of the wearable art and wall hangings of legendary Bill Bowers, whose art-clothes have been worn by rock stars, and whose Cockettes designs have become a part of gay history. 417 South Van Ness Ave. at 15th. 861-4526. www.queer-arts.org/bowers/  www.glamarama.com
Cartier and America @ Legion of Honor
Exhibit showing the history of the House of Cartier from its first great successes as the "king of jewelers and jeweler to kings" during the Belle Epoque through to the 1960s and 1970s, when Cartier supplied celebrities of the day with their jewels and luxury accessories. $6-$10. Tue-Sun 9:30am-5:15pm. Lincoln Park, 34th Avenue and Clement St. 750-3600. www.legionofhonor.org
Five O'Clock Jive @ Live Art Gallery
Swing dancing for same-sex partners and pals. 7:30-9:30pm. 7pm beginners class. Also, lessons and dancing other nights; Monday Salsa, Tuesdays Charleston, Wednesdays Lindy Hop, Thursdays Ballroom: $35 for a series of lessons/$10 drop-in). 151 Potrero Ave. at 15th. www.QueerJitterbugs.com
Happy Hour @ Energy Talk Radio
New interview show with gay writer Adam Sandel as host. 8pm. www.EnergyTalkRadio.com
Michael Kruzich @ Sweet Inspiration
Opening reception for the artist's exhibit of mosaics based on photos and classical art. 4pm-6pm. Thru May 1. 2239 Market St. www.mkmosaics.com
Outlook Video @ Channel 29
LGBT news show, with features on Campbell Mayor Evan Low, San Jose Emperor/Empress pagents, filmmaker Kathy Kifer, Prop 8 trial and more. 5pm. Also streaming online: www.outlookvideo.org
SF Hiking Club @ Muir Beach
Join GLBT hikers for an 11-mile hike in Tennessee Valley to Muir Beach and Green Gulch Farm. Enjoy the farm's meditation garden and views of the rolling hills and peeks of the ocean. Bring sunscreen, hat, layers, water, food, sturdy boots. Carpool meets 9:00 at Safeway sign, Market & Dolores. 378-5612. www.sfhiking.com
Shane Cooley @ Kimo's
Rockin' singer/songwriter performs his personable songs from his CD, The Vagabond. $5. 6pm. 1351 Polk St. www.shanecooleymusic.com  www.kimosbarsf.com Â
Shanghai @ Asian Art Museum
New exhibit about Asian artists from Shanghai, 130 works exploring and visualizing the city's vibrant and turbulent history. $7-$17. 200 Larkin St. 581-3500. www.asianart.org
Sunday's a Drag @ Starlight Room
Donna Sachet and Harry Denton host the weekly fabulous brunch and drag show. $30. 11am, show at noon; 1:30pm, show at 2:30pm. 450 Powell St. in Union Square. 395-8595. www.harrydenton.com
Golden Age of the Pharaohs
Tutankhamun and the Golden Age
of the Pharaohs @ de Young Museum
Fascinating exhibit of ancient Egyptian artifacts from the famous empire, set in a maze-like series of galleries. Also, Amish Abstractions: Quilts from the Collection of Faith and Stephen Brown features 48 full-size and crib quilts that showcase the diversity of the Amish quilt tradition. Also, Yua, Spirit of the Arctic: Eskimo and Inuit Art from the Collection of Thomas G. Fowler; nearly 100 objects from approximately 500 B.C. to the contemporary era, with snow goggles, kayak models, cribbage boards, animal carvings, dolls, and stone sculptures in a variety of materials. $6.50-$27.50. Daily 9am-9pm. Thru March 2010. Golden Gate Park, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive (877) 888-8587. www.deyoungmuseum.org
Mon 8
Comedy Night @ El Rio
Gay comic Nick Leonard, "motivational guru" Clam Lynch, Carla Clayy, Loren Kraut and MC Lisa Geduldig. $7-$20. 8pm. 3158 Mission St. at Precita. (800) 838-3006. www.koshercomedy.com  www.elriosf.com Â
Queer Ballroom @ Live Art Gallery
Weekly beginners same-sex dance classes in salsa and other styles. Also swing classes on Wednesdays, Standard ballroom Thursdays, $10 each, $35 for series. 151 Potrero Ave. 305-8242. www.QueerBallroom.com
Rosa Sat, Martin Walked & Barack Ran @ SF Art Exchange
Exhibit of 50 photographs by nine photographers visualizing African-American leaders of change. 458 Geary St. at Mason. (800) 344-9633. Thru Mar. 31. www.sfae.com
Ten Percent @ Comcast 104
David Perry's new talk show about LGBT local issues. This week: Chuck Forester, author of Do You Live Around Here? and the Rev. Victoria Rue: out lesbian Roman Catholic priest. 11:30am & 8pm. Mon-Thu. www.davidperry.com
Victor Arimondi @ SF Public Library
A Compassionate Eye: the Work of Victor Arimondi, an exhibit of photos by the prolific late gay Italian photographer. Hormel Center, 100 Larkin St. www.victorarimondi.net  www.sfpl.org
Tue 9
Alvin Ailey
American Dance Theater
@ Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley
Acclaimed dance company performs Ailey's popular Revelations, and other works in three different programs. $36-$62. 8pm. Thru Mar. 13. Also Sat 2pm, Sun 3pm. Bancroft Way at Telegraph., UC campus. www.calperformances.org
Buddhist Meditation Classes @ Kadampa Buddhist Temple
Tessa Logan teaches drop-in meditation classes. $10. 7-8:45pm. 3324 17th St. 503-1187. www.meditationinnortherncalifornia.org
The Drag Show @ Channel 29/76
New weekly talk show with local drag performers; Zachary Davenport and Stu Smith cohost. Free (with cable). 7:30pm.
Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey's
Ronn Vigh and Nick Leonard host the weekly LGBT and gay-friendly comedy night. Free. One-drink minimum. 9pm. 500 Castro St. at 18th. 431-HARV. www.harveyssf.com Â
Jennifer Koh @ Herbst Theatre
Virtuoso violinist performs two Bach partitas, works by Ysaye, Saariaho, Carter, and an unusual video duo of Esa-Pekka Salon's Violin Concerto. $32-$42. 8pm. 401 Van Ness Ave. 392-2454. www.performances.org
Passionate Struggle @ GLBT Historical Society
Re-opening of the successful Castro district exhibit, now relocated to the society's main space, about Bay Area LGBT historical events and people. Also, Keepin' On: Images of African American Lesbians from the Brooklyn Lesbian Herstory Archives. Free/donations. 657 Mission St. #300. 777-5455. www.glbthistory.org
Rainbow Reading @ SF Public Library
Reading by LGBT poets and writers of all ages and colors. Co-sponsored by the James C. Hormel Gay and Lesbian Center and the African-American Center. 6-7:45 p.m. Main Library, Lower Level, Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 100 Larkin St. (at Grove. www.sfpl.org
Tony Torrez @ Cigar Bar & Grill
Opening reception for an exhibit of Native American-inspired artwork. 7pm-10pm. Thru March. 850 Montgomery St. www.cigarbarandgrill.com
Yoga Classes @ LGBT Center
Fun, friendly weekly classes for beginners or experienced with Bill Mohler. $10-$20. 6:30pm. Also Wednesdays. Room 302, 1800 Market St. at Octavia. www.billmohleryoga.com www.sfcenter.org
Wed 10
Depth & Distance III @ LGBT Center
Out of the Closet and On the Wall, a group exhibit of art by seniors and disabled clients at New Leaf. 1800 Market St. at Octavia. www.sfcenter.org Â
Eat, Pray, Laugh! @ Off-Market Theatre
Alicia Dattner's solo show about a Jewish "princess" seeking spiritual salvation in India. $20. Wed only. 8pm. Thru March 31. 965 Mission St. www.aliciadattner.com
Gay Skate @ Redwood Roller Rink
The weekly GLBT roller-skating night is worth the drive. $7. 8pm-10pm. 1303 Main St. Redwood City. (650) 574-8148. www.myspace.com/gayrainbowskate Â
LizzieMovesCo @ The Garage
Space Garbage, an new dance-theatre work by Lizzie Karr, about space travel and glamour. $10-$20. 8pm. Also Mar. 11. 975 Howard St. 885-4006. www.975howard.com
Margaret Harrison @ Intersection for the Arts
The Bodies are Back, an exhibit of the daring feminist pop art of the UK-based, sometimes censored, visual artist who crashes gender identity. Wed-Sat 12pm-5pm. 446 Valencia St. at 15th. www.theintersection.org
Mr. Deviant @ Truck
Third annual kinky guy competition. See sexy guys onstage (er, the pool table), doing naughty things for prizes. 9pm-2am. 1900 Folsom St. at 15th. 252-0306. www.trucksf.com
Quit Smoking Group @ LGBT Center
First of a 7-week series of meeting to help LGBT people quite smoking. Free! Sign up! 7pm. Thru April 14. 1800 Market St. at Octavia. 339-STOP. www.lastdrag.org
Van Darkholme @ Mister S
Exhibit of hot men in rope bondage by the local photographer. Free. 385 8th St. Daily 11am-7pm. www.fpedge.com/exhibit_pages/mr_s/mr_s_venue.htm
Thu 11
2010: Resurgence @ ArtHaus
Group exhibit of works in various media by gallery artists. Also, Introductions, paintings by Gioi Tran. 411 Brannan St. 977-0223. www.arthaus-sf.com
Artworkers IV @ Eros
Exhibit of erotic art by employees of the local sex club, including Ernest Frost, Matt Sachs, Jeremy Sanders, and Loren Bruton. Free, all genders welcome. 18+. 2051 Market St. 255-4921. www.erossf.com
Asian American Film Festival @ Castro Theatre
Opening night of the annual festival of movies from around the world with Asian themes and stories; opening night film, Today's Special. $35-$55. 7pm. 429 Castro St. 621-6120. Thru March 21. www.asianamericanmedia.org   www.castrotheatre.com
The Future Lasts Forever @ SF CameraWork
Part two of the group photography exhibit An Autobiography of the San Francisco Bay Area, including prints by gay artists Jack Fritscher and Robert Mapplethorpe. Thru April. Tue-Sat 12pm-5m. 657 Mission St. 2nd fl. 512-2020. www.sfcamerawork.org  Â
Hats Off to Ongina @ Trigger
RuPaul's Drag Race Season One contestant appears at this fundraiser for local HIV-AIDS nonprofits. $10. 6pm-9pm. 2348 Market St. www.clubtrigger.com
Human Rights and Film @ Yerba Buena Arts Center
Weekly series of features about human rights. Thursdays thru Mar. 28. $6-$8. 7:30pm. 701 Mission st. www.ybca.org
Original Plumbing @ Books Inc.
Amos Mac and Rocco Kayiatos, editors of trans male magazine, discuss their latest issue. Free. 7:30pm. 2275 Market St. at Noe. 864-6777. www.booksinc.net
Radar Reading @ SF Public Library
Showcase of emerging and underground authors, with Poppy Foxheart, Cassie J. Sneider, CA Conrad and Elyssa Joy Kilman; hosted by Michelle Tea. 6pm. Lower Level, Latino/Hispanic Community Meeting Room, 100 Larkin St. (at Grove. www.sfpl.org
Richard Rodriguez @ Jewish Community Center
Gay Latino writer discusses Fame, Oblivion and the Writing Life with author Steven J. Zipperstein. $10-$18. 8pm. 3200 California St. 292-1200. www.jccsf.org
For bar and nightclub events, go to 'In the Bars' listings.
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