EVENTS **Admission is free unless otherwise noted. All information on event venues can be found on The Washington Diplomat Web site at www.washdiplomat.com. Times and locations are subject to change. Unless listed, please call venue for specific event times and hours of operation. ART Through Dec. 1 Esther Wertheimer: Circle of Life Canadian artist Ether Wertheimer uses bronze sculpture to express the joy between mothers and children, couples in love and other powerful relationships. Zenith Gallery Through Dec. 1 Renee DuRocher: Spirits of Xiían After his visit to the Chinese archeological site of unearthed terra-cotta soldiers in Xiían, French-Canadian artist Renee DuRocher explores the enduring nature of knowledge and high ideals passed down through the generations. Zenith Gallery Dec. 2 to 21 Contemporary Norwegian Glass Exhibit Showcasing eight Norwegian artists, this eye-catching exhibit represents both new talent and seasoned artists from the Nordic nation. Union Station Through Dec. 3 The World Trade Center Model: Preserving an American Treasure This model is all that remains of the World Trade Center site in its original form, providing a unique view into the architectural heritage of the complex. American Architectural Foundation Dec. 4 to 5 Matieres Premieres: Carole Ferreira-Cerca Initially drawn to ballet and the piano, Carole Ferreira-Cerca eventually turned to nonfigurative art to express her simmering imagination. Viewings are by appointment only. La Maison FranÁaise Through Dec. 7 Ethiopian Passages: Dialogues in the Diaspora Commemorating the centennial anniversary of U.S.-Ethiopian diplomatic relations, this is the first major exhibition devoted to the contemporary visual arts of the Ethiopian Diaspora. National Museum of African Art Through Dec. 12 ConnectionsóEarth and SkyóCanvas and Color Liechtenstein-born artist Elisabeth B¸chel mixes American expressionism with European contemporary art in an exhibition of her paintings, sponsored in part by the Embassy of Liechtenstein. Circle Point Artspace Through Dec. 12 Tommy Hilding A series of oil paintings by Swedish artist Tommy Hilding bring simple yet striking images to vivid life. Embassy of Sweden Through Dec. 31 Myths of St. Petersburg: Impressions of the City From Hillwood Collection To honor the 300th anniversary of the founding of St. Petersburg, the Hillwood Museum has compiled more than 50 objects that examine the famed cityís symbolic meaning and its place in Russian history. Hillwood Museum and Gardens Through Jan. 3 Canadian Counterpoint: Illustrations by Anita Kunz Fifteen paintings by the internationally recognized Canadian artist Anita Kunzówhose illustrations have graced the covers of Time, Newsweek, Rolling Stone and other major publicationsóreflect the thematic diversity of her 22-year career. Library of Congress Through Jan. 3 Fakes, Forgeries, Facsimiles The Folger displays various deceptive collection itemsósome done by master Shakespearean forgersóto help viewers learn more about forgeries, how to product them and how to detect them. Folger Shakespeare Library Through Jan. 4 The Art of Romare Bearden The Caribbean island of St. Martin, New Yorkís Harlem, jazz clubs, brothels, religious subjects and a multitude of other overlapping themes mark the powerful imagery of Romare Bearden in this first comprehensive exhibit of his work in more than a decade. National Gallery of Art Through Jan. 4 DirectionsóDan Steinhilber Local artist Dan Steinhilber reconfigures everyday objects into whimsical creations using everything from clothes hangers to garbage bags. Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden Through Jan. 4 Gyroscope To celebrate its 13th anniversary, the Hirshhorn launches a museum-wide exhibition that showcases its collection of modern and contemporary art. Encompassing nearly 40 thematic installations, ìGyroscopeî encourages visitors to experience art from a variety of perspectives, each designed to provoke curiosity, discovery and revelation. Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden Through Jan. 4 Tales and Legends in Japanese Art Japanese paintings and objects that use imagery to weave intricate tales and legends reveal the countryís rich narrative traditions. Freer Gallery of Art Through Jan. 4 Tea Utensils Under Wraps In Japan, where tea ceremony vessels are treasured as works of art, tea connoisseurs have devised some creative and decorative storage solutions for protecting their utensils while theyíre not in use. Freer Gallery of Art Through Jan. 4 Work Ethic This provocative collection of interactive installations, film and video recordings of contemporary artwork challenges rules of the workplace. Baltimore Museum of Art Through Jan. 5 Beyond the Frame: Impressionism Revisited, the Sculptures of J. Seward Johnson, Jr. J. Seward Johnson Jr. allows viewers to take a three-dimensional tour of sculptures inspired by masterpieces from the French impressionist era, from Claude Monetís lush landscapes to Mary Cassattís romantic interiors. Corcoran Gallery of Art Through Jan. 9 Schematics: Paintings by James Heron More than 20 colorful, richly textured paintings by San Francisco-based architect James Heron offer an undiluted visual celebration of architectural form and imagery. The Octagon Museum Through Jan. 11 The Age of Watteau, Chardin and Fragonard: Masterpieces of French Genre Painting This installation of some 106 key paintings spanning the entire 18th century is the first comprehensive exhibit of genre paintings, which focus on scenes from daily life, both real and imagined. National Gallery of Art Through Jan. 11 Haunting Visions of Poe: Illustrations by Manet, Matisse and Gauguin Twenty prints and drawings by modern French artists translate Edgar Allen Poeís dark genius into the realm of visual art. Baltimore Museum of Art Through Jan. 11 Himalayas: An Aesthetic Adventure Some 150 pieces, many of which have never been publicly exhibited, address the religious and aesthetic artistry of the Himalayan region, including Tibet, Nepal and Kashmir. Arthur M. Sackler Gallery Through Jan. 11 The Mountain of the Lord Five detailed models of the temples built on the ancient Temple Mount in Jerusalem give visitors the chance to explore these sacred sites firsthand. Pope John Paul II Cultural Center Through Jan. 15 Cuba Oriente: Contemporary Painting From Eastern Cuba Dozens of rich and vibrant works offer American audiences a slice of life from what is often described as the heartland of Cuban culture. Meridian International Center Through Jan. 16 Panama Centennial Exhibition A selection of works by 24 Panamanian painters is being presented in conjunction with the nationís 100th anniversary. Inter-American Development Bank Cultural Center Through Jan. 18 Picasso: The Cubist Portraits of Fernande Olivier In 1909, Pablo Picasso produced more than 60 portraits of companion Fernande Olivieró50 of which are on display hereóin an intense devotion to a single subject virtually unprecedented in the history of portraiture. National Gallery of Art Through Jan. 18 Surrealism and Modernism This selection of 59 paintings, collages and sculptures from the collection of the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art comprises some of the most significant avant-garde artists of the early 20th century. The Phillips Collection Through Jan. 20 Jewish Vienna The intriguing history of Jewish Vienna is interspersed with both goodócultural, artistic and scientific achievementóand badótwo medieval expulsions, political anti-Semitism and the horrors of the Third Reich. Embassy of Austria Through Jan. 20 Marc Chagall Rare illustrated art books and works on paper reflect the talent of Marc Chagall. Marninart Gallery Through Jan. 25 Faithís Great Mystery Part of ìAt the Altar of the World,î a yearlong celebration of Pope John Paul IIís silver jubilee, this inaugural exhibit uses archival photographs from the Vaticanís official newspaper to show how the Eucharist has been at the center of the Holy Fatherís pontificate. Pope John Paul II Cultural Center Through Jan. 26 Atomic Time: Pure Science and Seduction The installation ìCritical Assemblyî and a related series of photographs by Jim Sanbornóinspired by the Manhattan Project and the origin of the U.S. nuclear weapons programsócombine the artistís longstanding interest in invisible forces and secrecy. Corcoran Gallery of Art Through Jan. 30 Visions and Vignettes: Paintings by Ibiyinka Olufemi Alao As Nigeriaís ìambassador of art,î Ibiyinka Olufemi Alao has traveled the world displaying his contemporary paintings to spread his message of global peace and unity. World Bank Presidentís Gallery Through January Impressions of Angkor Wat: The Art of J^rg Schmeisser International artist and printmaker J^rg Schmeisser tours the temples of Angkor, capturing the history and astounding detail of the ancient Khmer capital through his etchings. National Geographic Explorers Hall Through Feb. 1 Pilgrimage: Photographs by Steve McCurry Journey to Asia with the photography of Steve McCurry as he pays tribute to those seeking a deeper spirituality through worship and daily acts. National Geographic Explorers Hall Through Feb. 1 Whistlerís Greatest Etchings: The 1889 Amsterdam Set Thirteen exquisitely detailed etchings from James McNeill Whistlerís visit to Amsterdamówidely considered to be his greatest achievementóare the focus of this absorbing exhibit. Freer Gallery of Art Through Feb. 8 Jewels and Gems The innovative jewelry designs in ìJewels and Gemsî highlight the spirit and wit of American studio jewelry artists. Renwick Gallery Through Feb. 13 Currents: Contemporary Studio Art From Newfoundland and Labrador Works created in Canadaís easternmost province offer echoes and images of remote places, interpretations of a distinct culture and landscape, and avant-garde design. Embassy of Canada Through Feb. 16 Colorful Impressions: The Printmaking Revolution in 18th-Century France More than 100 French 18th-century color prints make up this exhibit honoring one of the most innovative periods in the history of color printmaking. National Gallery of Art Through Feb. 22 Love and Yearning: Mystical and Moral Themes in Persian Poetry and Painting For centuries, the evocative imagery of lyrical Persian poetry has offered painters a wealth of pictorial possibilities, as seen in this beautifully illustrated exhibit. Arthur M. Sackler Gallery Through Feb. 29 Christoffer Wilhelm Eckersberg, 1783-1853 The founder of a distinct national school of painting in Denmark, Christoffer Wilhelm Eckersberg influenced a generation of artists who collectively created the ìgolden ageî of Danish painting. National Gallery of Art Through Feb. 29 Enterprising Women: 250 Years of American Business This study in cultural and business history follows the rise of women-owned enterprises in, among other areas, the applied arts, fashion, design and culinary arts. National Museum of Women in the Arts Through Feb. 29 Passionate Observer: Photographs by Eudora Welty Mississippi icon Eudora Welty captures her beloved American South in both black-and-white photography and compassionate writings. National Museum of Women in the Arts Through March 7 Roberto Matta: An Architect of Surrealism Roberto Matta, who recently died at the age of 91, had a love-hate relationship with his native Chile, as evident in this wide-encompassing retrospective. Organization of American States Art Museum of the Americas Through March 14 Navajo Blankets of the 19th Century Blankets spotlight the powerful aesthetics and signature characteristics of 19th-century Navajo weaving. The Textile Museum Through April 4 Mr. Whistlerís Galleries Although primarily known for his paintings and prints, expatriate American artist James McNeill Whistler was also an influential designer of both public and private interiors, as seen in this design-focused exhibition. Freer Gallery of Art Through April The Impressionist Tradition in America The Corcoran uses its collection of Impressionist works by Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, Mary Cassatt and others with ties to Europe to illustrate the evolution of American Impression, complementing a related exhibit, ìBeyond the Frame: Impressionism Revisited, the Sculptures of J. Seward Johnson, Jr.î Corcoran Gallery of Art Through May 23 Guardians of the Law: Chinese Luohan Paintings More than 20 works depicting ìluohansîóenlightened beings exempted by Buddha from the cycle of rebirth to act as guardians of the lawósurvey the major trends in the evolution of luohan painting. Freer Gallery of Art Through June 1 The East Building: Celebrating 25 Years This special installation highlights the history of the East Building, its construction and its ever-growing collection of modern art through architectural drawings and other archival material. National Gallery of Art DANCE Dec. 2 to 7 The Suzanne Farrell Ballet Former ballerina and renowned Balanchine protÈgÈe Suzanne Farrell returns to the Kennedy Center with two repertory programs of Balanchine works. Tickets are $27 to $61. Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater Dec. 12 to 28 The Nutcracker The Washington Ballet brings to life the story of Clara, a bevy of menacing mice, snowflakes, sugared confections and Tchaikovskyís infectious score in this treasured holiday classic. Tickets are $24 to $59. Warner Theatre Sat., Dec. 13, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., Sun., Dec. 14, 2:30 p.m. A Wintertime Classic ñ The Nutcracker Ballet Performed by The Fredericksburg Ballet Company of Virginia, this dazzling classical adaptation of the holiday childrenís story will be performed in two acts. The choreography and restaging have been done by classical ballet professionals Yasmine Gahed, Theresa Mayer and Beverly Mendez; production by Jennifer Cleaton. Tickets are $10 and are available by calling (202) 276-9642. For more information, please visit www.fredericksburgballet.com. Mary Washington Collegeís Dodd Theatre Dec. 23 to Jan. 4 Kirov Ballet of the Mariinsky Theatre: Swan Lake The legendary Russian ballet company performs their signature staging of the evening-length classic, ìSwan Lake.î Tickets are $45 to $105. Kennedy Center Opera House FESTIVALS Dec. 5 to 6, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Norwegian Holiday Bazaar Sample Norwegian culture with this array of treats ranging from holiday ornaments and sweaters to cookies and cake. Union Station Sun., Dec. 14, 2 p.m. Holiday Family Day Discover ancient Russian Christmas traditions and customs with this family celebration featuring Father Frost, folk tales and tree decorations. Tickets are $12 or $5 for children. Hillwood Museum and Gardens LECTURES Mon., Dec. 1, 6 p.m. The Mystery of the Blac k Death Renowned scientist Stephen J. OíBrien probes the genetic aspects of the black death using current HIV-related research. Tickets are $15 or $12 for Smithsonian members. National Museum of Natural History Baird Auditorium Tue., Dec. 2, 6:30 p.m. Roger Axtell on How to Be a Global Ambassador Roger Axtell, named by World Trade magazine as one of the 25 most influential people in international trade, offers amusing insights in global social taboos. Tickets are $15 or $12 for Smithsonian members. S. Dillon Ripley Center Tue., Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m. Tango Learn the story behind the tango, from its origins in the 1880s in working-class communities to its recent embrace by newer generations. Tickets are $16 or $13 for National Geographic members. Gilbert H. Grosvenor Auditorium Wed., Dec. 3, 5 p.m. Emily Dickenson Birthday Tribute Reading Award-winning poet Jean Valentine combines readings of her own sharp works with Emily Dickensonís compelling writings. Tickets are $45 for the seminar and supper or $10 for the reading and reception only, which begins at 7:30 p.m. Folger Shakespeare Library Wed., Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m. Betties in Bhutan and Beyond Alison Gannett, an accomplished adventurer who has won numerous free-skiing and extreme ski awards, recounts her 2001 expedition to India, followed by the film ìBetties in Bhutan.î Tickets are $16 or $13 for National Geographic members. Gilbert H. Grosvenor Auditorium Thu., Dec. 4, 6:30 p.m. The Legacy of Gregor Mendel: An Evening at the Czech Embassy This evening seminar honors Gregor Mendel, the acknowledged ìfather of genetics.î Light wine reception to follow. Tickets are $50 or $40 for Smithsonian members. Embassy of the Czech Republic Thu., Dec. 4, 8 p.m. What Stopped Rome? Archaeology professor Peter S. Wells leads audiences through the mud, blood and decimation that brought Rome to a halt nearly 2,000 years ago. Tickets are $20 or $15 for Smithsonian members. For venue information, please call (202) 357-3030. Location TBA Mon., Dec. 8, 6:30 p.m. William Butler Yeats: Irelandís Arch-Poet In this evening seminar, author and scholar Roy Foster illuminates the often-troubled personal life of one of Irelandís greatest poets, William Butler Yeats, and the nation to which he belonged. Tickets are $35 or $25 for Smithsonian members. Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden Wed., Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m. Wings of Change: Aviationís Next Century To mark the centennial of the Wright brothersí first flight, National Geographic photographer Joe McNally offers a glimpse into the next 100 years of flight. Tickets are $16 or $13 for National Geographic members. Gilbert H. Grosvenor Auditorium Thu., Dec. 11, 6:30 p.m. Mayan Worlds, Past and Present In this richly illustrated survey of pre-Colombian Maya cultures of Southern Mesoamerica, learn about recent archaeological excavations confirming that the Maya were a fully literate Native American civilization. Tickets are $30 or $20 for Smithsonian members. Freer Gallery of Art Thu., Dec. 11, 7 p.m. Bouncing on the Bed: Van Goghís Paintings of His Bedroom and Their Influence This slide-illustrated lecture explores the sources, context and interpretations of three of van Goghís most famous and unusual works. Tickets are $16 or $12 for Corcoran members. Corcoran Gallery of Art MUSIC Mon., Dec. 1, 8 p.m. Quilt Panels This musical compilation commissioned by the D.C.ís Different Drummers Symphonic Band, the Lesbian and Gay Chorus of Washington and the All Souls Jubilee Singers commemorates World AIDS Day and was inspired by the AIDS Memorial Quilt. Tickets are $30 or $5 for University of Maryland students. Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center Dec. 3 and 5, 8 p.m., Dec. 11 and 13, 8 p.m. Fatal Song: The Great Opera Murders ìFatal Songî uses musical wit to explore why all 19th-century opera heroines died. Tickets are $30 or $5 for University of Maryland students. Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center Thu., Dec. 4, 6 and 8:30 p.m. A Celtic Christmas The Boys of the Lough bring the vocal and instrumental sounds of Scotland, Ireland, North America and beyond in this festive Celtic midwinter tradition. Tickets are $26 or $21 for National Geographic members. Gilbert H. Grosvenor Auditorium Dec. 4 and 6, 8 p.m., Dec. 10 and 12, 8 p.m. Tale of Two Cities Highlighting the cabarets of Berlin and the salons of Paris from 1919 to 1929, the Maryland Opera Studio celebrates the music and poetry that emerged after World War II. Tickets are $30 or $5 for University of Maryland students. Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center Fri., Dec. 5, 8 p.m. A Dickensian Christmas John Deakís ìA Christmas Carolî is complemented with selections that Charles Dickens himself might have heard from the ìOxford Book of Carols,î as performed by the University of Maryland Menís Chorus. Tickets are $20 or $5 for University of Maryland students. Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center Dec. 5 to 21 The Angel of Guilt (El ¡ngel de la Culpa) A corpse, a silent young and questions of incest and homosexuality surround this riveting play by Marco Antonio de la Parra, Chileís renowned social critic. Please call for ticket information. Gala Hispanic Theatre Sat., Dec. 6, 8 p.m. From Darkness Into Light The Embassy Series presents a lovely program of Icelandic and other music at the intimate residence of the Icelandic ambassador. A dinner to follow. Tickets are $75. Icelandic Ambassador Residence Dec. 6 to 13 Celtic Christmas A medley of Celtic harps, guitar, flutes, pipes and bodhran are sure to stir the holiday spirit in this annual Christmas tradition. Tickets are $28. Dumbarton Church Mon., Dec. 8, 7 p.m. Enoch Arden and Michael York Set to Alfred Lord Tennysonís famous poem, ìEnoch Ardenî features actor Michael York and pianist John Bell Young as they breathe eloquent new life into Richard Straussís melodrama for narrator and piano. Tickets are $30 or $25 for Corcoran members. Corcoran Gallery of Art Mon., Dec. 8, 7:30 p.m. French-German Jazz Series: Daniel Mille Trio Daniel Milleís passion for all musical styles, from chamber music to tango to swing, resonates through the subtle inflections of his accordion. Admission is free but reservations are required. La Maison FranÁaise Mon., Dec. 8, 7:30 p.m. Washington Musica Viva In honor of his 113th birthday, Czech composer Bohuslav Martinu is the focus of this spectacular concert perfor med by Washington Musica Viva. Tickets are $12 at the door. Embassy of the Czech Republic Tue., Dec. 9, 7 p.m. National Musical Arts: Concert and Talk This year marks the 50th anniversary of Prokofievís death, a fitting occasion to pay tribute to the Russian composerís accomplishments. Tickets are $20; reservations are required. The Kreeger Museum Thu., Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m. Norwegian Visions 2003: Nils Petter Molvaer Internationally acclaimed Norwegian trumpeter, composer and producer Nils Petter Molvaer brings his eclectic mix of vocal and jazz improvisation and urban rhythms for this one-night engagement. Tickets are $25. Kennedy Center Terrace Theater Fri., Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m. Anonymous 4: Wolcum Yule This a capella ensemble presents ìWolcum Yule,î a holiday concert featuring early and modern vocal music from the British Isles. Tickets are $35. Kennedy Center Terrace Theater Sat., Dec. 13, 8 p.m. Bin Huang, Violin In the first concert ever presented at the Chinese Embassy by an arts organization, Embassy Seriesí favorite Bin Huang returns with a dazzling program of violin classics. Tickets are $35. Embassy of China Sun., Dec. 14, 5 p.m. Navidad: A Christmas Tale Coral Cantigas, Washingtonís premier Latin American chorus, recounts the traditional tale of Christmas with a Latin flair. Please call (301) 424-8296 for ticket information. Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church Sun., Dec. 14, 8 p.m. Israel Philharmonic Orchestra Take a cultural journey with one of Israelís most influential institutions as the orchestra performs works by Stravinsky and Mussorgsky depicting Russian ballet and art. Tickets are $35 to $125. Kennedy Center Concert Hall Dec. 17 to 21 Stille Nacht: A German Christmas The Folger Consort presents an intimate program of ancient Christmas hymns and folk melodies from the German-speaking lands between the 15th and 17th centuries. Tickets are $38. Folger Shakespeare Library SHOWS Dec. 5 to 7 Capital Collection of Holiday Shops This popular annual shopping extravaganza, featuring some 70 merchants, raises funds for the Junior League of Washington. Tickets are $10 for three-day admission and are available at the door. Marriott Wardman Park Hotel Dec. 8 to 10 Inside ID: The Identification Solutions Mega Show Leading industry experts in the identification field offer seminars and exhibits focusing on the emerging discipline of identity management and the role of ID technologies. For more information, please call Inside ID at (301) 365-0186. Washington Convention Center Tue., Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m. Benefit Dinner With Arts and Absinth The comedic tale of a poet who lives in a ridiculous reality is the centerpiece of this evening to benefit the embassyís future cultural programming. Tickets are $40; reservations are strongly recommended. Embassy of the Czech Republic THEATER Dec. 6 to 15 Holiday Menagerie The In Series theater troupe presents this double bill of ìPetpourri,î a whimsical cabaret about todayís pets, and ìBirds-and-Bees,î a revue of early í90s Broadway hits. Tickets are $21 to $26. Source Theatre Through Dec. 7 The Life of Galileo This classic play by Bertolt Brecht, starring Helen Hayes Award winner Ted van Griethuysen, pits scientific inquiry against the power of the Catholic Church. Tickets are $33 to $45. The Studio Theatre Dec. 10 to Jan. 11 Rum and Vodka An unnamed narrator goes on the rampage in modern-day Dublin in playwright Conor McPhersonís own special blend of wit and humor. Tickets are $20 to $25. Scena Theatre Dec. 12 to Feb. 15 Crowns Through soulful music and stories, ìHat Queensî from the Southówomen whose storied lives are woven into the straw and silk that adorn their headsócelebrate family, faith, love and loss. Tickets are $42 to $60. Arena Stage Through Dec. 14 Heartbreak House Alternately absurdly funny and wickedly profound, George Bernard Shaw penned this indictment of the generation that began World War I. Please call for ticket information. Round House Theatre Dec. 16 to 21 Kirov Opera and Orchestra: Eugene Onegin and Mazeppa The world-renowned Kirov Opera returns for the second of 10 annual engagements with two full-length operas by Tchaikovsky. Tickets are $40 to $250. Kennedy Center Opera House Dec. 13 to Jan. 4 Royal Shakespeare Company: The Taming of the Shrew and The Tamer Tamed Britainís premier interpreter of the Bard returns with Shakespeareís classic romantic comedy performed in repertory with its uproarious sequel written by his contemporary, John Fletcher. Tickets are $25 to $120. Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater Through Dec. 21 The Brothers Karamazov In this post-modern age, Dostoyevskyís greatest novel takes on a greater immediacy in a world fraught with violence and impending chaos. Please call for ticket information. Stanislavsky Theater Studio Through Dec. 28 The Gifts of the Magi Based on OíHenryís universal tale of unselfish love, ìThe Gifts of the Magiî follows two storiesóthe plight of two newlyweds from the Midwest who move to New York and the travails of a vagabond trying to spend the winters indoors. Tickets are $15 to $35. Olney Theatre Center Through Dec. 31 A Christmas Carol Charles Dickensís timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge returns to the Fordís Theatre to usher in the holiday season. Tickets are $29 to $45. Fordís Theatre Through Jan. 4 Camelot King Arthur, his queen and his valiant knights come to life in this regal tale of love, passion, vengeance and justice. Tickets are $42 to $60. Arena Stage Through Jan. 4 A Midsummer Nightís Dream In a place of enchantment inhabited by loversóboth fairy and humanóShakespeareís stirring language evokes a world of wonder, magic and romance that conquers over confusion and unrequited love. Tickets are $16 to $66. The Shakespeare Theatre Through Jan. 18 Mamma Mia! Catch the smash hit musical based on the songs of ABBAóseen by more than 10 million people around the worldóabout a mother who must confront her past during the impending marriage of her daughter. Please call for ticket information. National Theatre Through Jan. 25 The Nutcracker: A Tale of the Hard Nut Based on an original story by E.T.A. Hoffmanówhich is virtually unknown to American audiencesóthis holiday puppet production for all ages examines why the prince was turned into the Nutcracker. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. Classika Theatre