SCROOGE’S BETTER? HALF
Fri Nov 14, 8pm, Hole in the Wall Theater, 116 Main St., New Britain.
You’ve likely only heard the story from Ebenezer’s side, but have you ever thought about Jacob Marley’s perspective on the lessons and hauntings of A Christmas Carol? Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol, Tom Mula’s funny, irreverent spin on the holiday classic looks at Marley’s plight to redemption and his bouts with Scrooge along the way. Performances through Dec. 13. $20 suggested donation. 229-3049, hitw.org

SETTING THE ARTISTIC MOOD
Fri Nov 14, 6pm, Farmington Valley Arts Center, 25 Arts Center Ln., Avon.

If you’ve never been to the FVAC, experiencing this rustic gem by candlelight is one of the best ways to do so. If you’re an FVAC regular, then we’re sure the 31st Candlelight Opening is already on your calendar. Meet the artists that work in the 20 studios here. See where and how they create their artwork and browse for holiday gifts. The pathways are lit with sparkly lights and luminescent candles, refreshments are served, and creativity emanates from these 20 very unique and inspiring work spaces. Free. 678-1867, fvac.net

HAROLD HILL HITS WEST HARTFORD
Thu Nov 13, 7:30pm, King Philip Middle School, 100 King Philip Dr., West Hartford. Bring your Shapoope out for a night of rousing music and striking local talent as the West Hartford Community Theater brings the classic Rogers & Hammerstein “The Music Man” to life—Harold Hill and Gary, Indiana in all. Advance: $15; at the door: $20; $15 w/Let*s GO Arts! 561-3992 x2, WHTheater.org

QUARTET AND THEN SOME
Thu Nov 13, 7:30pm, Millard Auditorium, University of Hartford, 200 Bloomfield Ave., West Hartford.
Inject a bit of sunshine into your week with a performance by UHa’s quartet-in-residence, Miami String Quartet with a night of premieres and guest artists. The quartet is joined by internationally acclaimed pianist Andre-Michel Schub and guest violinist Benny Kim. The program also includes the East Coast premiere of “Angels” by celebrated American composer Joan Tower. $30-36. 768-4228, hartford.edu/hartt

AFTER THE VOTES ARE COUNTED
Thu Nov 13, 7 pm reception; 7:30 discussion, Real Art Ways, 56 Arbor St., Hartford.
The political attack ads have subsided and the debates and speculation are over. We have a new president, but what does that mean? Moderated by WNPR’s John Dankosky, host of “Where We Live,” a panel including Laurence Cohen, Bill Curry and Melanye Price, professor at Wesleyan University focus on “The Aftermath” of November 4 and what our future looks like in an Obama presidency. Free. 232-1006, realartways.org

THE WORD EVOLUTION- U of H
Thu Nov 13, 6pm, University of Hartford’s Wilde Auditorium, 200 Bloomfield Ave., West Hartford.

The celebration of Noah Webster’s 250th birthday continues with another lecture focused on Webster’s legacy. Enjoy a reception in honor of the wordsmith, then hear from John Morse, President of Merriam-Webster, Inc, who will follow the American Dictionary from Webster’s 1806 Compendious to today’s multi-editor Merriam-Webster editions. $20. 521-5362 x10, NoahWebster250.org