It only feels like the holidays when certain annual yuletide events approach. Here's December's first crop.
Winterfest at Metreon Cityview, the annual SF Bicycle Coalition party and fundraiser, includes beer, wine, food, sales, art auctions, bike displays and equipment discounts, DJed tunes by Shooey & Ding Dong, and a wheely cool crowd; new scenic location. $20-$60. Sunday, December 4. 6pm-10:30pm. 101 4th St. www.sfbike.org/?winterfest
Mary Wilson of the Supremes headlines Help Is On the Way at the Marines Memorial Theatre, the 10th annual Richmond/Ermet AIDS foundation concert and gala, with Susan Anton, RJ Helton, Shawn Ryan, Von Smith, La Toya London, David Burnham, Sally Struthers, Bonnie Franklin, Loretta Devine, Paula West, Wesla Whitfield and the cast of New Conservatory Theatre's production of Xanadu! plus other talented singers and comics. $40-$60. Monday, December 5. 7:30pm. After-party with wine & dessert with VIP tickets ($100). 609 Sutter St. 273-1620. www.reaf.org
Also Monday December 5, the Tree of Hope ceremony at City Hall, Rainbow World Fund's annual celebration and tree-lighting ceremony, includes Mayor Ed Lee, Rita Moreno, Peter Coyote, Donna Sachet, the SF Boys Chorus and more entertainment. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres. 5:30pm-8pm. The Rotunda, City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place. www.rainbowfund.org
The San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus gets festive December 8 at Masonic Auditorium. Home for the Holidays, the chorus' 34th annual year-end concert, includes guest artists SF Opera fave Melody Moore, Velocity Bells ensemble and the Contra Costa Wind Symphony. $20-$60. $132 for season tickets. Dec. 8 at 8pm. 1111 California St. Also Dec. 24 at The Castro Theatre, 429 Castro St; 5pm, 7pm, 9pm. 865-2787. www.sfgmc.org
The Golden Girls moves to the roomier Victoria Theatre. The Christmas Episodes, the 6th annual hilarious drag stage adaptation of the hit TV show, stars Heklina, Matthew Martin, Cookie Dough and Pollo Del Mar. Dec 1 opening night partial proceeds benefit Project Open Hand. $25-$30. Thu-Sat 8pm. Thru Dec. 23. 2961 16th St. at Mission. www.trannyshack.com/goldengirls/
photo: Kevin Berne
A Christmas Carol, American Conservatory Theatre's annual lavish production of Carey Perloff and Paul Walsh's adaptation of the classic holiday Charles Dickens story, sells out quickly, so get your tickets now. $15-$105. Tue-Sat 7pm. Sun 5:30pm. Various matiness at 2pm & 1pm. Thru Dec. 24. 415 Geary St. 749-2228. www.act-sf.org
The Velveteen Rabbit at the Novellus Theater is the 25th anniversary of ODC/Dance and director-choreographer KT Nelson's production of the dance work based on the classic holiday children's story. $15-$45. 2pm & 11am shows, varying Thu-Sun thru Dec 11. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 700 Howard St. www.odcdance.org www.ybca.org
The Holiday Ice Rink at Union Square, where you can skate around shoppers at the ice rink in the middle of downtown's busy Union Square, will host its second annual Drag Queens on Ice, Thursday December 8. Group drag skate 8pm; show 9:30pm. Beer and wine available. $5-$10. A portion of ticket sales benefit Boys and Girls Clubs of San Francisco. Regular hours 10am-11:30pm. Thru Dec 31. Powell St. at Geary. 781-2688. www.unionsquareicerink.com
Visual AIDS
Some unusual World AIDS Day events take place this December 1.
The Grove airs on PBS, it's the documentary about the community that created and maintains the National AIDS Memorial Grove in Golden Gate Park. Check local listings. www.pbs.org www.thegrovefilm.com
The World AIDS Day Commemoration at St. Aiden's Church includes a liturgy focusing on "Getting to Zero" (infections), with a choral concert and singer Bebe Sweetbriar; reception afterwards. 7pm. 101 Gold Mine Drive. 285-9549. www.saintaidan.org
Also December 1, Magnet hosts hourly indoor and outdoor screenings of Untitled, a one-hour montage film about AIDS. 12pm-12am. 4122 18th St. 581-1613. www.magnetsf.org
One of the more striking images commemorating the loss from AIDS, Invisible Man at Grace Cathedral, Joshua Goldstein's haunting suspended sculpture made of nearly 900 syringes, is on display through Dec. 4. 1100 California St. 749-6300. www.gracecathedral.org
Sunday, December 5, the Deaf Community AIDS Memorial at the SF Public Library, the 25th annual celebration in honor of deaf people who have died of AIDS, features Carol Nance, Frank Lester, catered food and refreshment; ASL-to-voice interpreting. 1pm-3pm. Latino/Hispanic Room, 100 Larkin St. at Grove. www.sfpl.org
Events December 1�"8, 2011
Thu 1
Adler Fellows Concert @ Herbst Theatre
Giuseppe Finzi conducts a concert of solo arias by nearly a dozen promising opera singers. $25-$60. 7:30pm. 401 Van Ness Ave. 864-3330. www.sfopera.com
Dance Workshop @ Metronome
New classes for men interested in trying out modern dance; led by Michael Parra of Nomad Dance Company. $10. 7pm-8:30pm. 1830 17th St. www.cmgdanseur.eventbrite.com
The Golden Girls @ Victoria Theatre
The Christmas Episodes, the 6th annual hilarious drag stage adaptation of the hit TV show, with Heklina, Matthew Martin, Cookie Dough and Pollo Del Mar. Dec 1 opening night partial proceeds benefit Project Open Hand. $25-$30. Thu-Sat 8pm. Thru Dec. 23. 2961 16th St. at Mission. www.trannyshack.com/goldengirls/
The Grove @ PBS
Broadcast of the documentary about the community that created and maintains the National AIDS Memorial Grove in Golden Gate Park. Check local listings. www.pbs.org www.thegrovefilm.com
Invisible Man @ Grace Cathedral
Joshua Goldstein's haunting suspended sculpture made of nearly 900 syringes, visualizing the lives lost to AIDS. Thru Dec. 4. 1100 California St. 749-6300. www.gracecathedral.org
Left Coast Leaning @ YBCA
Third annual festival of diverse California performers: Alexandro Segade, Rafael Casal, tap artist Jason Samuels Smith, dance troupe tEEth and the Anna Martine Whitehead Group. $5-$15. 8pm. Thru Dec. 3. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Forum. 701 Mission St. 978-2787. www.ybca.org
Marlena Shaw @ the Rrazz Room
Veteran jazz-soul singer and composer performs. $35-$40. 8pm. Also Dec 2, 8pm; Dec 3, 7pm & 9:15pm; Dec 4, 7pm. 2-drink min. 8pm. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. 394-1189. www.TheRrazzRoom.com
Same-Sex Dancing @ Queer Ballroom
Ongoing partner dance lessons and open dancing in a variety of styles- Argentine tango, Cha Cha, Rhumba and more; different each night. $5-$25 open dancing to $55 for private lessons. 151 Potrero Ave. at 15th. www.QueerBallroom.com
Tristan Taormino @ Feelmore Gallery
Erotica author and sex educator discusses "finding your g-spot" for women. $25-$30. 7:30pm. 1703 Telegraph Ave. Berkeley. www.feelmore510.com
Untitled @ Magnet
Hourly indoor and outdoor screenings of the one-hour montage film about AIDS. 12pm-12am. 4122 18th St. 581-1613. www.magnetsf.org
World AIDS Day Commemoration @ St. Aiden's Church
Liturgy focusing on "Getting to Zero" (infections), with a choral concert and singer Bebe Sweetbriar; reception afterwards. 7pm. 101 Gold Mine Drive. 285-9549. www.saintaidan.org
Fri 2
Ahoy There! @ Potero SF Public Library
Friends of the Library's nautical-themed cocktail and beer party shows off the renovated building. Join up, donate, schmooze with local authors. 7pm-10pm. 1616 20th St. at Arkansas. www.friendssfpl.org
Artery Project @ Various Venues
San Francisco Arts Commission's expansive lineup of arts events include gallery exhibits, store window installations, dance, music, outdoor performances and more. Ongoing. www.sfartscommission.org/artery
Caminos Flamencos @ Marines Memorial Theatre
10th anniversary concert for the acclaimed local flamenco troupe, with special guests from Spain. $20-$80. 8pm. Also Dec 3 8pm & Dec 4, 3pm. 609 Sutter St. www.caminosflamencos.com www.marineclub.com
Carmen @ War Memorial Opera House
San Francisco Opera's production of Bizet's passionate opera. $21-$330. 8pm. Also Dec 4, 7:30pm. 301 Van Ness Ave. 864-3330. www.sfopera.com
A Christmas Carol @ ACT
American Conservatory Theatre's annual lavish production of Carey Perloff and Paul Walsh's adaptation of the classic holiday Charles Dickens story. $15-$105. Tue-Sat 7pm. Sun 5:30pm. Various matiness at 2pm & 1pm. Thru Dec. 24. 415 Geary St. 749-2228. www.act-sf.org
Christopher Daniels @ Nob Hill Theatre
Porn newbie and hot blond-redhead does a full-on strip act. $25. 8pm & 10pm. Also Dec. 3. Admission includes all shows and the downstairs cruise areas. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 781-9468. www.thenobhilltheatre.com
Cinderella @ Buriel Clay Theater
African American Shakespeare Company's annual production of the stage adaptation of the classic fairy tale. $10-$35. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sun 3pm. Thru Dec 11. 762 Fulton St. at Webster. (800) 838-3006. www.AfricanAmericanShakes.org
Cirque du Soleil @ AT&T Park
The Montreal circus spectacular returns with Totem, a visually striking exploration of human evolution, from amphibians to those who seek to fly. Look for the big tents across the bridge and east of the AT&T Park. $55-$360. Thru Dec. 11. (800) 450-1480. www.cirquedusoleil.com/totem
Clam Lynch @ the Dark Room
Cut the Crap, a parody self-motivation solo show. $12-$15. 10:30pm. Also Dec 16, Jan 6 & 13. 2263 Mission St. www.clamlynch.com www.darkroomsf.com
Dr. Strangelove @ The Dark Room
Jim Fourniadis' stage adaptation of the Stanley Kubrick satire about 1960s Cold War paranoia. $20. Thu-Sat 8pm. Thru Dec 17. 2263 Mission St. 401-7987. www.darkroomsf.com
God's Plot @ Ashby Stage, Berkeley
Shotgun Players' commissioned play written and directed by Mark Jackson; an update on the 1665 satire on the King of England, enjoyed by early American Puritans, whose pious outward behavior comes under scrutiny as another form of theatre. $18-$27. Thu 7pm. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sun 5pm. Thru Jan. 15. 1901 Ashby Ave. Berkeley. (510) 841-6500. www.shotgunplayers.org
Holiday Ice Rink @ Union Square
Skate around shoppers at the ice rink in the middle of downtown's busy Union Square. A portion of ticket sales benefit Boys and Girls Clubs of San Francisco. $5-$10. 10am-11:30pm. Thru Dec 31. Powell St. at Geary. 781-2688. www.unionsquareicerink.com
Inkboat @ ODC Theater
Butoh comic dance-theatre company performs Line Between, a Western-Eastern merging dreamscape. $17-$20. 8pm. Also Dec 3, 3pm & 8pm. Dec 4, 7pm. 361 Shotwell St. www.odctheater.org
Kate Lehman, Travis Schlaht @ John Pence Gallery
Dual exhibit of compelling realist paintings of animals, still lifes and portraits. Reception 6pm-8pm. Mon-Fri 10am-6pm. Sat 10am-5pm. Thru Dec. 17. 750 Post St. 441-1138. www.johnpence.com
Ladies in Waiting @ Exit Stage Left
No Nude Men Productions' three comic plays about damsels in distress include Marie Antoinette and crossdressing werewolves. $20. 8pm. Thu-Sat. Thru Dec. 17. 156 Eddy St. www.horrorunspeakable.com
Lewis Klahr @ YBCA Screening Room
Veteran collage animation artist speaks at a screening of his 2008 series of beguiling films, Prolix Satori. $6-$8. 7:30pm. 701 Mission St. 978-2787. www.ybca.org
Life Gone Viral @ The Marsh
Charlie Varon and Jeri Lynn Cohen perform and co-wrote (with director David Ford) this comic show about the hazards of Internet exhibitionism. $20-$50. Thu 8pm. Sat 8:30pm. Sun 3pm. Thru Dec. 4. 1062 Valencia St. at 22nd. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org
Marga Gomez @ The Marsh
Veteran lesbian comic performs Not Getting Any Younger, a new solo show about her 'coming of middle age.' $15-$50. Thu & Fri 8pm. Sat 8:30pm. Sun 3pm. Extended thru Dec 17. 1062 Valencia St. 282-3055. www.themarsh.org
Oakland East Bay Men's Chorus @ Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, Concord
Eleventh holiday concert by the East Gay ensemble includes a nod to Carl Orff, and performances of gay composer Jack Curtis Dubowsky's "Quaker Peace Testimony." $12-$20. 8pm. 1578 Kirker Pass Road. Also Dec 3 (2pm, 7:30pm) and 4 (7pm) at Lake Merritt United Methodist Church, 1330 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland. www.oebgmc.org
Period of Adjustment @ SF Playhouse
Local staging of Tennessee Williams' "serious comedy" about a man who brings his bride to meet his best friend. $20-$50. Tue-Thu 7pm. Fri & Sat 8pm. Thru Jan 14. 533 Sutter St. near Powell. 677-9596. www.sfplayhouse.org
Tanztheater Wuppertal
Pina Bausch Tanztheater Wuppertal @ Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley
Globally acclaimed dance company performs Bausch's Danzon, a strange, funny and astounding Cuban-inspired 100-minute work choreographed by Bausch, who died in 2009. $30-$86. 8pm. Also Dec. 3. UC Berkeley campus, Bancroft Way at Telegraph Ave. (510) 642-9988. www.calperformances.org
SF Bal Swingfest @ Hotel Whitcomb
Three-day dance competition, show and social event, with same-sex dancing events, workshops and live bands. Costume theme nights (speakeasy, USO, Western) and lots of dancing fun. $95 for full weekend. Day rates too. 6pm-1am. Thru Dec. 4. 1231 Market St. at 8th. 305-8242. www.queerjitterbugs.com
Sex Rev @ CounterPulse
The Jose Sarria Experience, Theatre Rhinoceros' production of John Fisher's funny, sexy retelling of historic gay activist Jose Sarria's life, starring Tom Orr. $10-$25. Thu-Sat 8pm. Also Sat 10:30pm. Sun 7pm. Extended thru Dec 4. 310 Mission St. (800) 838-3006. www.TheRhino.org www.CounterPulse.org
Sing-Along The Sound of Music @ Castro Theatre
Laurie Bushman, Sara Moore, D'Arcy Drollinger and David Hawkins host the popular participatory screening of the classic Rodgers & Hammerstein film musical starring Julie Andrews, with subtitled lyrics, costume fun, props, and classic musical songs played by organist David Hegarty for 30 minutes pre-show. $10-$15. Concert 6:30pm, show 7pm. Matiness 12:30-1pm. Thru Dec. 4. 429 Castro St. 621-6350. www.castrotheatre.com
The Soldier's Tale @ Aurora Theatre, Berkeley
Director Tom Ross and former San Francisco Ballet principal dancer Muriel Maffre's new production of the 1918 Igor Stravinsky musical play combines actor-singers and a life-size puppet. $10-$55. Tue Sun 7pm. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru Dec. 18. 2081 Addison St. (510) 843-4822. www.auroratheatre.org
A Tale of Two Genres @ SF Playhouse
Un-Scripted Theater Company's comic production of An Improvised Dickensian Musical, with audience suggestions. $10-$20. Thu-Sat 8pm. Also Sat 3pm. Thru Dec 21. (no show Nov 19 or 24). 533 Sutter St. www.un-scripted.com
photo: Lois Tema
The Temperamentals @ New Conservatory Theatre Center
Jon Marans' hit Off-Broadway drama about 1950s gay activist Harry Hay and Rudy Gernreich, and their struggle to form the historic Mattachine Society; stars J. Conrad Frank (Katya Smirnoff-Skyy). $25-$45. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru Dec. 18 (no show Nov. 24). 25 Van Ness Ave at Market, lower level. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.org
The Velveteen Rabbit @ Novellus Theater
25th anniversary of ODC/Dance and director-choreogrpaher KT Nelson's production of the dance work based on the classic holiday children's story. $15-$45. 2pm & 11am shows, varying Thu-Sun thru Dec 11. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 700 Howard St. www.odcdance.org www.ybca.org
The Wild Bride @ Berkeley Repertory Theatre
Touring production of Kneehigh Theatre Company's acclaimed Broadway show with music and dance that blends fairy tale dreams and humorous yet heartbreaking realities. Opening night Dec 7. LGBT Night Out Dec. 3. Tue, Thu-Sat 8pm. Wed 7pm (Dec 7, at 8pm). Sat & Sun 2pm. Sun 7pm. Thru Jan 1. 2025 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 647-2972. www.berkeleyrep.org
Xanadu @ New Conservatory Theatre Center
The hit Broadway musical �"based on the campy 80s Olivia Newton-John/Gene Kelly film about a mythical muse and roller skating rink�" gets a local production. Special "Xanadu Fun-Pack" includes a cocktail/soft drink, keepsake cup and souvenir disco ball necklace. $25-$45. Wed-Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru Jan. 15. 25 Van Ness Ave, lower level. 861-8972. www.nctcsf.org
You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown @ Retrodome, San Jose
Clark Gesner's updated version of the musical based on Charles M. Schulz' immensely popular comic characters. $38.50. Fri & Sat 7:30pm. Sun 3pm & 7pm. Thru Dec 18. 1694 Saratoga Ave. (408) 404-7711. www.theretrodome.com
Sat 3
The Air We Breathe @ SF MOMA
New group exhibit of works by 30 contemporary artists and eight poets who explore the issues of legalizing same-sex marriage. Accompanying book will be on sale: The Air We Breathe: Artists and Poets Reflect on Marriage Equality. Also, Richard Serra Drawing, a retrospective of drawings by the artist known for his massive steel slabs; Thru Jan. 16. Paul Klee and Andrew Schoultz, an exhibit of works by the Bay Area artist in response to Klee's drawings and prints; Thru Jan 8. Less and More: the Design Ethos of Dieter Rams; Thru Feb 20; and Sharon Lockhart's Lunch Break, photos and installation of images of industrial workers. Other exhibits ongoing. Free-$18. 151 Third St. 357-4000. www.sfmoma.org
Animales y Nahuales @ Back to the Picture Gallery
Group exhibit of Mexican folk art in wood, clay, and paintings, depicting people and their animal spirit guides. Portion of sales benefits SF SPCA and Rancho El Uno Reserve. 934 Valencia St. Mon-Sat 10am-6pm. Sun 12pm-5pm. www.backtothepicture.com
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
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. $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
Collected @ Museum of the African Diaspora
Subtitled Stories of Acquisition and Reclamation, this new exhibit displays more than 100 objects that help narrate the struggles and contributions of African Americans in California; frequent special events. Thru March 4. 685 Mission St. at 3rd. 358-7200. www.moadsf.org
Concept Series @ Sanchez Studio
RAWdance presents Rewind, the latest installment of the dance works-in-progress showings, including dances by Lisa Townsend Company, Gretchen Garnett, Amy Seiwert, Todd Eckert and Amara T. Smith; with "raw fusion" cuisine and tasty popcorn. $30. 8pm. Also Dec 4. 66 Sanchez St. 686-0728. www.rawdance.org
Cuban Connections: Near & Far @ MACLA, San Jose
Group exhibit of photography by contemporary and historic Cuban artists. Free. Wed & Thu 12pm-7pm. Fri & Sat 12pm-5pm. Thru Jan 7. Movimento de Arte y Cultura Latino Americana, 510 South First St., San Jose. (408) 998-ARTE. www.maclaarte.org
Donald Rizzo @ Castro Country Club
Shadows, Secrets and Silhouettes, the artist's exhibit of paintings. Thru Jan. 2. 4058 18th St. www.castrocountryclub.org
Erika von Volkyrie @ Martuni's
Gothic chanteuse/pianist performs "Holiday in Berlin," with guests Honey Mahogany and Camilla Lombard. $7. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com
Holiday Crafts Fair @ Civic Center Park, Berkeley
Think global; shop local. Swap old holiday lights for new LED lights, buy handmade crafts as gifts-creamics, jewelry, cards, clothes toys and more. 10am-4pm. Also Dec. 10 & 17. Center St. at MLK Jr. Way. www.ecologycenter.org
The Hot Mikado @ Masquers Playhouse, Point Richmond
Gilbert & Sullivan's classic operetta gets a nervy 1940s zoot-suit-era revamp by David H. Bell. $20. Fri & Sat 8pm. Sun 2pm. Thru Dec. 17. 105 Park Place, Point Richmond. (510) 232-4031. www.masquers.org
Line Dance Classes @ ODC Dance Commons
New fun line dance classes taught by Sundance Saloon's Sean Ray, with a special LGBT-anybody-inclusive ambiance, and not just country music. $14. Weekly Saturdays, 6pm-8pm. 351 Shotwell St. www.odcdance.org
Maharaja @ Asian Art Museum
The Splendor of India's Royal Courts, an expansive exhibit showcasing textiles, jewels and items from the heyday of the early Indian empires. Also, Sanjay Patel's Deities, Demons and Dudes with 'Staches: Indian Avatars; Tateuchi Thematic Fallery,2nd floor, thru April 22. Other special events thru exhibit run. $7-$17. Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. Thu til 9pm. Thru April 8, 2012. 200 Larkin St. 581-3500. www.asianart.org
Mark Foehringer's Nutcracker Sweets @ Children's Creativity Museum
Local choreographer's contemporary update on the classic holiday ballet, set to the Tchaikovsky score. $20-$35. Various Sat & Sun (a few weekdays Dec 20-22), 11am & 2pm. Thru Dec. 23. 221 4th St. www.brownpapertickets.com
The Matter Within @ YBCA
Fascinating new exhibit of contemporary Indian art; installations, sculptures and other media. Don't miss Sunil Gupta's alluring gay photo series Love, Undetectable and Sun City. Free-$12. Exhibit thru Jan 29. Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission St. 978-2787. www.ybca.org
Monsters in the Bookshelf @ Thacher Gallery, USF
Exhibit of sketchbooks, canvases, storyboards, book galleys and other artwork by popular children's book illustrators from Studio 5 (www.studiofiveart.org). Thru Dec. 16. Gleeson Library-Geschke Center, USF campus, 2130 Fulton St. 422-5178. www.usfca.edu
The Paper Quilt Project @ Berkeley Art Center
Group exhibit of collaborative paper works by various artists. Thru Dec. 4. 1275 Walnut St. (510) 644-6893. www.berkeleyartcenter.org
Teatro Zinzanni @ Pier 29
The new show Up in the Air, about a struggling radio station, stars Geoff Hoyle, blues musician Duffy Bishop, and a slew of amazingly talented acrobats, singers, musicians, a five-course dinner, and a lot of fun. $117-$145. Saturday 11:30am "Breve" show $63-$78. Wed-Sat 6pm (Sun 5pm) Thru Dec 31, when the show goes on hiatus for World Cup Sailing pier renovations. Pier 29 at Embarcadero Ave. 438-2668. www.teatrozinzanni.com
Sun 4
Amy Sedaris @ Roxie Theater
The witty comic actress shares tips from her campy book, Simple Times: Crafts for Poor People, signs books at a reception and makes stuff. Proceeds benefit the Roxie's development fund. $100. 7:30pm. 3117 16th St. 431-3611. www.roxie.com
Archie, Green Lantern, Troubletown @ Cartoon Art Museum
Exhibits showcasing original art work and prints of classic comic art. $3-$7. Tue-Sun 11am-5pm. 655 Mission St. CAR-TOON. www.cartoonart.org
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
Brentano String Quartet @ Herbst Theatre
Renowned ensemble performs works by Schubert, Bach, Wuorinen, Haydn, Shostakovich and Mozart. $38-$68. 7pm. 392-2545. www.sfperformance.org
Deaf Community AIDS Memorial @ SF Public Library
25th annual celebration in honor of deaf people who have died of AIDS, with Carol Nance, Frank Lester, catered food and refreshment; ASL-to-voice interpreting. 1pm-3pm. Latino/Hispanic Room, 100 Larkin St. at Grove. www.sfpl.org
Happy Hour @ Energy Talk Radio
Interview show with gay writer Adam Sandel as host. 8pm. www.EnergyTalkRadio.com
The Legend of Rex Slinkard @ Cantor Arts Center, Palo Alto
Exhibit of art in various media and ephemera from the life of painter Rex Slinkard, a little-known contemporary of early Modern artists Marsden Hartley and George Bellows. Thru Feb. 26. www.museum.stanford.edu
Oakland-Berkeley Fire Aftermath
Love & Loss: Dias de los Muertos @ Oakland Museum of California
Annual group exhibition of Day of the Dead altars created by artists school kids, community groups. Thru Dec. 11. Also, 1991: Oakland-Berkeley Fire Aftermath, a new exhibit of Richard Misrach's rarely viewed large-format photographs of the devastating fires 20 years ago. Thru Feb 12, 2010. Also, A Walk in the Wild, Continuing John Muir's Journey, 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
Open House @ Small Press Distribution, Berkeley
Meet authors Jai Arun, Donna de la Perriere, Judith Goldman, Pamela Lu and Marvin K. White and get discounted books at the alternative book and magazine distributor's offices. 1pm-4pm. 1341 7th St. www.spdbooks.org
Outlook Video @ Channel 29
Monthly LGBT news show: HIV medical news, Still Around filmmakers, Santa Clara AIDS resources and Christmas videos. 5pm. Also streaming online and at other times. www.outlookvideo.org
photo: Rick Gerharter
Sunday's a Drag @ Starlight Room
Donna Sachet and Harry Denton host the fabulous weekly 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
Sundayz @ Beatbox
New weekly booze bust and T-dance, with a portion of proceeds going to various local AIDS/HIV and LGBT non profits. DJs Russ Rich, Byron Bonsall, Brian Maier, Christopher B and Kevin Lee. $15 bust or $5 + cash bar. 3pm-7pm. 314 11th St. www.beatboxsf.com
Sunday Skool with Baby D @ Academy of Ballet
D'arcy Drollinger (Enrique) returns to SF with a campy aerobics weekly workout set to music from the 80s-today. Retro Spandex and Solid Gold gear encouraged. Dance by donation. Sundays at 11am. 2121 Market St. at Church.
Takacs Quartet @ Hertz Hall, Berkeley
Acclaimed music ensemble performs chamber music by Janacek, Britten and Ravel. $60. 3pm. UC Berkeley campus, Bancroft Way at College Ave. (510) 642-9988. www.calperformances.org
Toys for Tots @ St. Regis
Join the LGBT Community Center at a party to help kids over the holidays; DJ Christopher B. Bring an unwrapped toy. Festive holiday attire, please. 4pm-7pm. Third St. at Mission. RSVP: [email protected] www.facebook.com/events/136636986439314/
Winterfest @ Metreon Cityview
The annual SF Bicycle Coalition party and fundraiser includes beer, wine, food, sales, art auctions, bike displays and equipment discounts, DJed tunes by Shooey & Ding Dong, and a wheely cool crowd; new scenic location. $20-$60. 6pm-10:30pm. 101 4th St. www.sfbike.org/?winterfest
Mon 5
BOOBS @ The Rrazz Room
Busty Outrageous Over-the-top Broads Singin' (Leanne Borghesi, Jessica Coker and Soila Hughes) perform funny pop, rap and blues, accompanied by the Graham Sobelman Trio. $25. 8pm. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. 394-1189. www.TheRrazzRoom.com
Help Is On the Way @ Marines Memorial Theatre
Mary Wilson of the Supremes headlines the 10th annual Richmond/Ermet AIDS foundation concert and gala, with Susan Anton, RJ Helton, Shawn Ryan, Von Smith, La Toya London, David Burnham, Sally Struthers, Bonnie Franklin, Loretta Devine, Paula West, Wesla Whitfield and the cast of New Conservatory Theatre's production of Xanadu! plus other talented singers and comics. $40-$60. 7:30pm. After-party with wine & dessert with VIP tickets ($100). 609 Sutter St. 273-1620. www.reaf.org
Q Comedy Showcase @ Martuni's
Paul Pratt, Lisa Geduldig, Jill Bourque, Carrie Avritt, Kibibi Dillon and Veronica Porras do GLBT stand-up at this laugh-filled night, with host Nick Leonard. Joe Wicht's Piano Bar follows. 1st Mondays. $5-$15. 8pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.Qcomedy.com
Salsa Dancing @ Queer Ballroom
Same-sex dancing with lessons and open dancing. 6pm and 7pm classes 8pm-9:30 dancing. Many of these events will end this year, so enjoy them while you can. $5-$30. 151 Potrero Ave. www.queerballroom.com
Ten Percent @ Comcast 104
David Perry's talk show about LGBT local issues. Mon-Fri 11:30am & 10:30pm, Sat & Sun 10:30pm. www.davidperry.com
Tree of Hope @ City Hall
Rainbow World Fund's annual celebration and tree-lighting ceremony, the Mayor Ed Lee, Rita Moreno, Peter Coyote, Donna Sachet, the SF Boys Chorus and more entertainment. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres. 5:30pm-8pm. The Rotunda, City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place. www.rainbowfund.org
Tree of Life @ SFSU Museum
Preserving 3,000 Years of Family Heritage, an exhibit of rare Roman coins, Egyptian sculptures Qing Dynasty scroll paintings, all depicting lineage of different cultures. Mon-Fri 11am-4pm. Thru Dec. 7. Humanities Bldg, 510 at Font Blvd and Tapia Drive. www.sfsu.edu/~museumsf
Tue 6
Boston Symphony Orchestra @ Davies Hall
Ludovic Morlot conducts the symphony performing works by Berlios, Mozart, Elliot Carter and Bartok. Dec 7, they perform works by Ravel, Mahlet and John Harbison. Both $15-$120. 8pm. Van Ness Ave at Grove. 864-6000. www.sfsymphony.org
Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey's
Ronn Vigh hosts the weekly LGBT and gay-friendly comedy night. This week: Casey Ley, Janine Brito and Bobby Guap. One drink or menu item minimum. 9pm. 500 Castro St. at 18th. 431-HARV. www.harveyssf.com
Karita Mattila @ Herbst Theatre
Soprano performs a recital of works by Poulenc, Debussy, Sallinen and Marx. $38-$68. 8pm. 401 Van Ness Ave. 392-2545. www.sfperformances.org
photo: Jose Guzman-Colon
Katya Smirnoff-Skyy @ The Rrazz Room
The exiled Russian drag empress serves up a tipsy night of holiday songs. $30. 8pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. 394-1189. www.TheRrazzRoom.com
Russell Brand @ Palace of Fine Arts
British comic actor performs in a benefit for the David Lynch Foundation, an alternative therapy nonprofit that works with PTSD soldiers, kids with ADHD learning disorders and people in addiction recovery. $50-$75. 8pm. 3301 Lyon St. www.slimstickets.com
Wed 7
Alice Bag @ Reaction Restaurant
Founding member of the LA punk group The Bags reads from her memoir Violence Girl and sings a few songs. 7pm. 2183 Mission St. Also Dec 8, at 7pm at Modern times Bookstore, 2919 24th St. www.alicebag.com www.mtbs.com
Brett Kaufamn @ 5 Claude Lane Gallery
Exhibit of unique multimedia works depicting gay icons like Allen Ginsberg, Harvey Milk and Oscar Wilde. Wed-Sun 11am-5pm. Exhibit thru Jan 11. 5 Claude Lane near Bush St. 956-1310. www.5claudelane.com
California Dreaming @ Contemporary Jewish Museum
Jewish Life in the Bay Area from the Gold Rush to the Present, an exhibit about the lives of historic Western American Jewish people, from Levi's jeans and Ginsberg's Howl to Gump's and LGBT synangogues. Also, Houdini: Art and Magic. $5-$12. Thu-Tue 11am-5pm. 736 Mission St. at 3rd. 655-7800. Thru Oct. 16, 2012. www.thecjm.org
Maria Muldaur @ The Rrazz Room
Pop and jazz songs from the folk-rock songbird ("Midnight on the Oasis"). $35. 8pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. 394-1189. www.TheRrazzRoom.com
Same-Sex Dancing @ Queer Ballroom
Ongoing partner dance lessons and open dancing in a variety of styles- Argentine tango, Cha Cha, Rhumba and more; different each night. $5-$25 open dancing to $55 for private lessons. 151 Potrero Ave. at 15th. www.QueerBallroom.com
Our Vast Queer Past @ GLBT History Museum
See the fascinating exhibit from the GLBT Historical Society, with a wide array of rare historic items on display. New mini-exhibit focuses on the legacy of activist and performer Jose Sarria. Free for members-$5. Wed-Sat 11am-7pm. Sun 12pm-5pm. 4127 18th St. www.glbthistory.org
photo: Cheryl Mazak
Thu 8
Bitch @ Starry Plough, Berkeley
Powerful singer-electric violinist performs at the East Bay venue with DJ Alligator. Local songstress Jenny Hoyston opens. $10. 9pm. 21+. 3101 Shattuck Ave. (510) 841-2082. www.bitchmusic.com www.starryploughpub.com
The Dog Show @ Z Space
Laura Arrington and Jesse Hewitt/Strong Behavior's new dance-theatre works compares canine lives to human domestication, and media-created "monsters." $8-$20. 8pm. Thru Dec. 11. 450 Florida St. (800) 838-3006. www.lauraarringtondance.com www.zspace.org
Drag Queens on Ice @ Union Square
Skating with the local stars, as drag performers take to the ice, and you can, too. Group drag skate 8pm; show 9:30pm. Beer and wine available. $5-$10. Reg hours 10am-11:30pm. Thru Dec 31. Powell St. at Geary. 781-2688. www.unionsquareicerink.com
Loni Love @ The Rrazz Room
Comedy host of The Gossip Queens does her wild stand-up act. $25. 8pm. Also Dec 9 & 10 at 9:30pm, and Dec 11 at 7pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. 394-1189. www.TheRrazzRoom.com
Occupy Discussion Group @ New Valencia Hall
Radical Women host a discussion about the 99% movement locally and abroad, specific to women and women of color. 7pm. Light supper $7.50. 747 Polk st. 864-1278. www.radicalwomen.org
Recovering Commies @ Cobb's Comedy Club
Gay comic Yuri Kagan performs stand-up with Vladimir Khlynin and presents other comedians with families from former Communist countries, including Kira Soltanovich, Chris Garcia and Janine Brito. $15. 8pm. 2-drink min. 18+. 915 Columbus Ave. www.RecoveringCommies.com
San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus @ Masonic Auditorium
Home for the Holidays, the chorus' 34th annual year-end concert, includes guest artists SF Opera fave Melody Moore, Velocity Bells ensemble, the Contra Costa Wind Symphony. $20-$60. $132 for season tickets. 8pm. 1111 California St. Also Dec 24 at The Castro Theatre, 429 Castro St; 5pm, 7pm, 9pm. 865-2787. www.sfgmc.org
Sundance Saloon @ Space 550
The popular country western LGBT dance night. $5. 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
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To submit event listings, email [email protected].
Deadline is each Thursday, a week before publication.
For bar and nightlife events, go to www.bartabsf.com