The Providence Journal / Sandor Bodo
"Scenes from the Polar Express"
JUMP! Dance Company presents an original dance drama based on Chris Van Allsburg's children's story. Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. $10. Wheeler School Auditorium, 216 Hope St., Providence. (401) 529-4391, jumpdancecompany.org.
"Messiah and Carol Sing: The Christmas Story"
Swanhurst Chorus offers a concert featuring the Christmas portion of Handel's "Messiah" as well as beloved carols. A wassail bowl reception is to follow. Saturday at 7 p.m. $10 adults; $5 for children 12 and younger. Emmanuel Church, corner of Spring and Dearborn streets, Newport. (401) 682-1630, swanhurst.org.
"Home for the Holidays"
A variety show featuring seasonal stories, songs and surprises (think barbershop quartet singing by a menorah, a donkey that learns the truth about the Nativity). Saturday at 4 and 7 p.m. and Sunday at 4 p.m. Free (donations encouraged). Courthouse Centerstage, 3481 Kingstown Rd., West Kingston. (401) 782-1018, courthousecenterstage.org.
"'Twas the Night Before Christmas"
Providence Ballet Theatre presents a light hearted performance -- complete with eight dancing reindeer -- based on Clement Clarke Moore's classic poem. Saturday at 2 p.m. $30 adults; $20 seniors; $15 students and children. Sapinsley Hall, Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts, Rhode Island College, 600 Mount Pleasant Ave., Providence. (401) 456-8144, providenceballet.org.
"A Christmas Carol"
Artists' Exchange puts its spin on Dickens' classic tale of Christmas redemption. Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m. $18. Park Theatre, 848 Park Ave., Cranston. (401) 490-9475, artists-exchange.org.