**Admission is free unless otherwise noted. Unless listed, please call for specific event times and/or hours of operation. ART Dec. 3 to 4 Regards díAfrique: Paintings by Michelle Galzy Tunisian-born French artist Michelle Galzy has always been fascinated by the different cultures that make up Africaóan interest that was piqued by her five-year sojourn on the Mayotte Island off the South African coast and that is reflected in her rich and varied works. Viewings are by appointment only and during all cultural events. La Maison FranÁaise Dec. 5 to 31 Catharine Warren: Provence Paintings And Collages American-born Catharine Warren studied various techniques of etching at the AcadÈmie Goetz in Paris, later setting up studio in the French province where she continues to produce her captivating paintings and collages. Viewings are by appointment only and during all cultural events. La Maison FranÁaise Dec. 8 to May 26 The Floating World Revealed: Ukiyo-e Paintings and Prints The style of art known as ukiyo-e depicts a panoply of actors and courtesans from the entertainment, theater and pleasure quarters of Japanís great cities during the Edo period (1615-1868). Freer Gallery of Art Dec. 21 to March 10 Fantasy Underfoot The 47th Corcoran Biennial explores the legacy of conceptual art and the ìnew mediaî of the 1960s. Corcoran Gallery of Art Through Dec. 30 Picturing the Corcoranís Sculpture: Photographs by David Finn Sculpture and photography overlap to reveal how a viewerís perception of three-dimensional objects is altered when presented with two-dimensional imagesóin this case four yearsí worth of sculptures at the Corcoran is juxtaposed with the photography of David Finn. Corcoran Gallery of Art Through Jan. 5 Judy Chicago Covering three decades of trailblazing work by feminist artist Judy Chicago, this powerful exhibit brings together some of her most talked-about pieces, including ìThe Dinner Partyî and ìThe Holocaust Project.î National Museum of Women in the Arts Through Jan. 5 Painted Prints: The Revelation of Color ìPainted Printsî works to dispel the notion that Renaissance prints painted by artists such Albrecht D¸rerówhich were often brilliantly hand colored by professional print coloristsówere any less valuable or beautiful than their black-and-white counterparts. Baltimore Museum of Art Through Jan. 5 Recent Acquisitions and Pr omised Gifts Some newcomers to the contemporary art collection at the National Museum of African Artówhich now boasts the largest such collection in the United Statesó are now on display and include Congolese paintings from the í40s and í50s as well as a moving mixed-media installation from South Africa. National Museum of African Art Through Jan. 5 Sacred Sites: Silk Road Photographs by Kenro Izu Sacred Buddhist shrines tucked away among the peaks of the Himalayas and other images that dot the rugged lands along the Silk Road make up this evocative series of photographs. Arthur M. Sackler Gallery Through Jan. 5 Secrets of Silk Is silk really stronger than steel? What gives silk its luster? Find out the answers in ìSecrets of Silk,î which looks at the production of the luxurious fiber through various silk weaving cultures. The Textile Museum Through Jan. 6 The Shape of Color: Joan MirÛís Painted Sculpture Showcasing his innovative interplay of ideas, color and form, this is the first comprehensive exploration of renowned Spanish artist Joan MirÛ and his late polychrome sculpture. Corcoran Gallery of Art Through Jan. 12 Portraits of the Presidents from the National Portrait Gallery Spanning dozens of famous paintings, sculptures, photographs and other renderings, this traveling exhibit pays homage to all 42 faces that have graced the White House from George Washington to Bill Clinton. Virginia Historical Society Through Jan. 19 Masterful Illusions: Japanese Prints from the Anne van Biema Collection Striking Japanese woodblock prints dating from the 1720s to the late 19th century dramatically portray themes from literature, poetry, kabuki theater, landscapes and beautiful women. Arthur M. Sackler Gallery Through Jan. 19 Pierre Bonnard: Early and Late More than 130 works by Pierre Bonnard demonstrate the avant-garde artistís highly independent vision, which helped him experiment with alternative media and break free of mainstream artistic movements. The Phillips Collection Through Feb. 16 The Classical Tradition in Anatolian Carpets Dating from the 14th to the 17th centuries, Anatolian carpets offer a glimpse into the rich history of the Ottoman Court and its enduring weaving tradition. The Textile Museum Through Feb. 28 Katharina Neuwirth: The Experiment, Photography A surrealistic style has become the trademark of Katharina Neuwirth and her experiment-based photography. Embassy of Austria Through March 1 Thys Boke Is Myne Explore how bibliophiles, famous and forgotten, have signaled ownership of treasured volumes for 500 years. Folger Shakespeare Library Through March 2 DirectionsóCecily Brown Seven sensuous abstract paintings by London-born, New York-based artist Cecily Brown recast and conceal erotically charged scenes hidden beneath large-format, gestural abstraction. Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden Through March 15 Frans Lanting: Jungles From the lowlands of the Congo to the peaks of the Andes, photographer and naturalist Frans Lanting has spent 20 years working in jungles, producing photographs that convey a compelling vision of Earthís most endangered ecosystems. National Geographic Explorers Hall Through March 31 Through My Fatherís Eyes Photographs taken by Ricardo Alvarado provide a poignant and intimate backdrop to the rich cultural history of Filipino Americans, one the nationís largest and most rapidly growing Asian American ethnic groups. National Museum of American History Through May 7 The Road to Rome: A Modern Pilgrimage Captivating images of shrines and other sacred sites help viewers retrace the spiritual journey that pilgrims traveling to Rome have undertaken for nearly 1,700 years. Pope John Paul II Cultural Center Through May 25 Common/Places: Contemporary Photography From Germany and Northern Europe The familiar scenes of everyday life are transformed into stunning, large-scale works by some of the most influential contemporary photographers. This exhibit runs concurrently with ìParallel Tracks: The History of Photography in Two Brief Installments,î which chronicles the evolution of street photography compared to studio photography. Baltimore Museum of Art Through May 31 Silver Speaks Traditional jewelry and costumes from Yemen, Oman, Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern nations are sure to entice and enrapture viewers. Bead Museum Through June 1 Laying the Foundation for Liberty Learn the story of how America prepared for Franceís monumental gift through the design and construction of the pedestal that anchors the Statue of Liberty. The Octagon Museum DANCE Dec. 3 to 7 Pilobolus Dance Theatre Witness the gymnastic feats and athletic prowess of this very limber dance troupe. Tickets are $12 to $36. Kennedy CenterEisenhower Theater Dec. 6 to 22 The Nutcracker Glistening snowflakes, sugared confections, a bevy of menacing mice and one very special toy bring Tchaikovskyís infectious score to life in this family-friendly production by The Washington Ballet. Tickets are $33 to $53. The Warner Theatre Sat., Dec. 7, 1 p.m. Krakowiaki Dancers Krakowiaki Dancers from the Polish National Alliance Lodge 339 perform this festive array of traditional Polish dances. Pope John Paul II Cultural Center Dec. 11 to 15 Bolshoi Balletís The Nutcracker Russiaís grand Bolshoi Ballet returns to the Kennedy Center with its lavish production of the perennial holiday favorite. Tickets are $45 to $110. Kennedy CenterConcert Hall Sat., Dec. 28, 7 p.m., Sun., Dec. 29, 3 p.m. The Spirit of Kwanzaa The Dance Institute of Washington dazzles in this Kennedy Center favorite. Tickets are $10 to $15. Kennedy Center Concert Hall LECTURES Thu., Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. Crossing the Sahara by Camel Experience an epic tale of adventure as British explorer John Hare recounts his 1,500-mile trek through the ancient desert cultures of the Sahara. Tickets are $16 and $13 for National Geographic members. Gilbert Grosvenor Auditorium Fri., Dec. 6 and 13, 3:30 p.m., Sat., Dec. 14, 10:30 a.m. S torytelling With Father Frost Bring the children to listen to enchanting Russian folktales as told by the beloved Father Frost. Hillwood Museum and Gardens Sat., Dec. 7, 8 p.m. Beli Bodap Boomshakalak: Sage of an African American Folk Hero Storyteller Baba Jamal Koram honors Zora Neale Hurston, an avid supporter of the fight to preserve African American culture and history. Tickets are $12. Kensington Armory Sat., Dec. 7, 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Poetry Marathon World-renowned poets from Latin American and Spain join Washington-based poets to bring an international flair to the spoken word. Tickets are $10. Mexican Cultural Institute Tue., Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m. Measured Moments, Human Lives National Geographic, photographer Karen Kasmauski has covered assignments ranging from the role of women in Japanese society to the worldwide struggle against diseaseóall the while photographing the seemingly unphotographable. Tickets are $16 and $13 for National Geographic members. Gilbert Grosvenor Auditorium Wed., Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m. Flying South: A Pilotís Inner Journey Find out how accomplished photographer and businesswoman Barbara Cushman Rowell merged three of personal goals togetherólearning to fly, learning to speak Spanish and exploring South America. Tickets are $16 and $13 for National Geographic members. Gilbert Grosvenor Auditorium Wed., Dec. 18, 6:30 p.m. Exploring the Collection: Surrealism With key exhibitions in Paris and New York, Surrealism has experienced a resurgence as a major literary and artistic expression. In this series of three lectures, the Kreeger looks at its own collection in reference to this important movement. Tickets are $5. The Kreeger Museum MUSIC Tue., Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m. Gerald Finley, Julius Drake Canadian baritone Gerald Finley, a leading vocalist specializing in Mozart baritone roles, joins pianist Julius Drake for this stirring performance. Tickets are $30. Vocal Arts Society Sat., Dec. 7, 7:30 p.m. Norwegian Visions 2002 Co-presented with the Norwegian Embassy, the fifth annual Norwegian Visions Concert presents the Scandanivian brother-and-sister duo of Julie and David Coucheron, already considered by many to be the most promising young talents to emerge from Norway. Tickets are $15. Kennedy Center Terrace Theater Dec. 7, 8, and 12 to 14 A Celtic Christmas The Barnes and Hampton Celtic Consort skillfully weaves the soulful Celtic tradition that has taken hold in the Appalachian foothills with the more traditional sounds of the Emerald Isle. Tickets are $26 and $22 for students and seniors. Dumbarton Church Sun., Dec. 8, 8:30 p.m. Out of the Norwegian Woods: A Rock Concert The Royal Norwegian Embassy presents three eclectic rock bandsóBjorn ìMr. String Machineî Berge, Furia and Minor Majorityóin this one-night-only event. Tickets are $10. The Black Cat Mon., Dec. 9, 8 p.m. Beethoven Trios IIóThe Mendelssohn Piano Trio In the second of three concerts, the Mendelssohn Piano Trio performs a variety of works dedicated to the legendary German composer. Tickets are $35. Embassy of Germany Thu., Dec. 12, 6:30 p.m. The Eggner Trio The Eggner Trio from Vienna makes its heralded U.S. debut with a program of works by Austrian composer Werner Pirchner and Franz Schubert. A photo ID is required. Inter-American Development Bank Cultural Center Fri., Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m. Susie Ibarra Trio Dubbed best drummer by The Village Voice, Susie Ibarra leads her adventurous trio with keyboardist Craig Taiborn and violinist Jenny Choi as they commemorate the exhibit ìThrough my Fatherís Eyesî at the National Museum of American History. Freer Gallery of Art Meyer Auditorium Fri., Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m. The Waverly Consort The Waverly Consort reprises its popular rendition of ìThe Christmas Story,î as told by the poets and musicians of medieval Europe. Tickets are $28. Kennedy Center Terrace Theater Fri., Dec. 13, 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. A Winter Talisman Celebrate the changing seasons with a riveting music program combining the talents of acclaimed Scottish fiddler Johnny Cunningham and Irish vocalist Susan McKeown. Tickets are $25 and $20 for National Geographic members. Gilbert Grosvenor Auditorium Mon., Dec. 16, 8 p.m. Beethoven Trios IIIóThe Mendelssohn Piano Trio The final tribute to Beethoven on his birthday features a special reception and takes place in the new auditorium of the Goethe-Institut. Tickets are $35. Goethe-Institut Dec. 18 to 22 The Passion Of Scrooge Enjoy the Folger Consortís dramatic portrayal of Charles Dickensís ìA Christmas Carolî by composer Jon Deak. Tickets are $34 to $38. Folger Shakespeare Theatre Thu., Dec. 26, 8:30 p.m. A Scottish Christmas This lively collection of Scottish carols, wassail tunes and traditional Highland music and dance numbers features Celtic musicians from both North America and Scotland. Tickets are $30 to $45. Kennedy Center Concert Hall RECEPTIONS Tue., Dec. 3, 6:30 p.m. Festive Holiday Evening at the Embassy of Romania Ambassador and Mrs. Dumitru Ducaru open their home for a superb evening of Romanian music and reception. Tickets are $50 and $40 for Corcoran members. Embassy of Romania Thu., Dec. 5, 5:30 p.m. Tree Lighting Ceremony Join the ambassador of Norway as he puts the finishing touches on a 35 foot-tall Christmas tree shipped directly from the Norwegian capital city of Oslo. Union Station Thu., Dec. 5 to Sat., Dec. 7, 7:30 p.m. Zarzuela Be entertained with a live performance of Zarzuela, the art of Spanish light opera, while feasting on the culinary delights of Taberna del Alabardero, a famed Spanish restaurant. Tickets are $75 (not including tax and gratuity). Taberna del Alabardero Fri. and Sat., Dec. 6 and 7, 9:30 a.m. Norwegian-American Christmas Bazaars This cornucopia of Norwegian treats includes arts and crafts, hand-made jewelry, dolls, decorations, homemade delicacies and much more. Union Station Sun., Dec. 15, 12 p.m. Taste of Norway Sample some traditional Norwegian foods and holiday specialties in this fun and free tasting. Union Station THEATER Through Dec. 1 Blood Knot Two brothers are both ethnically black but one can pass for white in this riveting metaphor for South Africaís separation of the races. Tickets are $20 to $23. Kennedy Center AFI Theater Sun., Dec. 1, 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. The Dream Catcher Montrealís Theatre Sans Fil brings this delightful tale of a brother and sister who share each otherís dreams to life through puppetry. Tickets are $13. Kennedy Center Terrace Theater Through Dec. 1 Host and Guest This new playóbased on the work of one of the Republic of Georgiaís most beloved poets, Vazha Pshavelaótells the story of a man and woman caught between the conflicting values of their community, their faith and their restless hearts. Tickets are $20 to $30. Stanislavsky Theater Studio Through Dec. 1 Loveís Laborís Lost The Shenandoah Shakespeare Express tackles the Bardís hilarious romp that leaves no question as to who has the more serious artillery in the war between the sexes. Tickets are $25 to $36. Folger Shakespeare Theatre Dec. 4-7, 11-15, 18-22 Icarus Like the Greek myth from which the play borrows its name, Edwin Sanchezís ìIcarusî is the story of a group of modern-day, oddball dreamers whose figurative wax wings melt when they fly too close to the sun. Tickets are $20 and $18 for students and seniors. Trumpet Vine Theatre Company Fri., Dec. 6, 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. ëUlalena Ancient chants, traditional hula dances and pulse-pounding music all fuse for a visually spectacular theatrical sensation that tells the story of Hawaiiófrom its creation to the overthrow of the monarchy in the late 19th century. Tickets are $25 and $20 for National Geographic members. Gilbert Grosvenor Auditorium Fri. and Sat., Dec. 6 and 7, 8 p.m. Milan Sladek Acclaimed Slovak mime Milan Sladek makes his Washington, D.C., premiere in this intriguing and dazzling performance. Tickets are $15. Gallaudet University Theatre Dec. 6 to Feb. 2 South Pacific The Rodgers and Hammerstein post-war classic about love in the tropics set amid racial tensions and warís inhumanity comes to the Arena Stage. Tickets are $40 to $58. Arena Stage Fichandler Theater Sun., Dec. 15, 3 p.m. La Quitapena This is the U.S. premiere of a groundbreaking work by Argentinean playwright Mari? Carrera, with live music and video. Tickets are $20 and $5 for students. Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center Dec. 16 to Jan. 11 The Day Room The Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company presents this hilarious and inspired farce by Don DeLillo, which centers on two unsuspecting hospital patients who are visited by a silly string of nurses and doctors. Tickets are $25 to $48. Kennedy Center AFI Theater Dec. 17 to Jan. 12 Tell me on a Sunday This riveting one-woman tour-de-force tells the story of a young English womanís journey to ìmake itî in America as she struggles through an urban labyrinth of disillusionment, betrayal and personal triumph. Tickets are $25 to $180. Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater Dec. 19 to Jan. 19 The Seagull Anton Chekhovís story about people who fail to achieve life in their art and struggle with the art of living gets a comedic makeover. Tickets are $25 to $30. Stanislavsky Theater Studio Through Dec. 31 A Christmas Carol Usher in the holiday season with Charles Dickensís classic tale of good and evil. Tickets are $29 to $45. Fordís Theatre Through Jan. 4 Les Miserables Sweeping through three turbulent decades in France, Victor Hugoís timeless masterpiece follows one manís life-long quest to evade detection. Tickets are $20 to $77. National Theatre Through Jan. 12 The Snow Queen A sister embarks on a quest to rescue her brother from the Snow Queenís icy grasp when she discovers that her greatest strength is the warmth of her familyís love in this charming production for the whole family. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Classika Theatre TOURS Sun., Dec. 1, 12 p.m. Sunday Afternoon Open House Take this opportunity to explore the Hillwoodís stately collection of Russian imperial and French decorative art. Hillwood Museum and Gardens Dec. 2 to 20 Heurich House Museum Celebrating The Holiday Season The glow of soft lights and the smell of hot cider fill the historic German-American Heurich Home as it celebrates the holiday season. Tickets for the self-guided daytime tours are $3; tickets for the candlelight evening tours (reservations required) are $10. Heurich House Museum Thu., Dec. 5, 12 and 19, 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. The Holidays at Hillwood Tour Spend a morning or afternoon viewing Hillwoodís resplendent assortment of holiday dÈcor. Floral demonstrations will be held at 12:30 p.m. Hillwood Museum and Gardens Dec. 6 to Jan. 1 25th Annual Festival of Lights More than 300,000 spectacular lights illuminate the grounds of the Washington D.C. Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in this annual holiday tradition. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints