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THEATER

Cats comes roaring back to the Civic Theatre, as Broadway/San Diego presents the perennial pussycat musical, June 3-8: Tues., Thur. & Fri. at 7:30, Wed. at 7, Sat. at 2 & 7:30, Sun. at 1 & 6. 100 Third Ave., downtown, 619-570-1100; broadwaysd.com.

The Page to Stage production of The Night Watcher marks Charlayne Woodard’s return to La Jolla Playhouse, July 1-27 (no show July 4): Tues. & Wed. at 7:30, Thur. & Fri. at 8, Sat. at 2 & 8, Sun. at 2 & 7. UCSD campus, 2910 La Jolla Village Dr., La Jolla, 858-550-1010; ­lajollaplayhouse.org.

Lambs Players Theatre premieres Mike Buckley’s comedy The Hit, May 30–July 13: Tues.-Thur. at 7:30, Fri. at 8, Sat. at 4 & 8, Sun. at 2. 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619-437-0600; lambsplayers.org.

Rick Simas’ comic musical The Big Bang makes waves at North Coast Repertory Theatre thru June 22: Wed. at 7 (except June 11), Thur.-Sat. at 8, Sun. at 2 & 7. 987 Lomas Santa Fe Dr., Ste. D, Solana Beach, 858-481-1055; ­northcoastrep.org.

Hershey Felder’s Beethoven, As I Knew Him introduces us to the composer as interpreted by Felder, on the Old Globe Theatre’s main stage thru June 8. The pianist-actor then essays the other music-makers in his trilogy: Monsieur Chopin (June 11-22) and George Gershwin Alone (June 25-29). Shows are Tues. & Wed. at 7, Thur. & Fri. at 8, Sat. at 2 & 8, Sun. at 2 & 7. On the outdoor Lowell Davies Festival Theatre stage, the Summer Shakespeare Festival starts June 14 with repertory performances of All’s Well That Ends Well, Romeo and Juliet and The Merry Wives of Windsor. Shows, thru Sept. 28, are Tues.-Sun. at 8. 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619-234-5623; ­theoldglobe.org.

San Diego Repertory Theatre closes its season with the 15th annual Lipinsky Family San Diego Jewish Arts Festival, featuring the play Bluish by Janice Schaffer, June 16 at 7:30, and The Wondering Jew, June 17 at 7:30. 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619-544-1000; sandiegorep.com.

The Rodgers and Hammerstein classic The King and I takes over the Welk Resort Theatre thru July 27: Tues., Thur. & Sat. at 1:45 & 8, Wed. & Sun. at 1:45. 8860 Lawrence Welk Dr., Escondido, 760-749-3448; welktheatre.com.

At the California Center for the Arts, Escondido: The Wedding Singer Musical Comedy, based on the hit movie, is performed May 31 at 2 & 8, June 1 at 2. 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, 800-988-4253; artcenter.org.

Compass Theatre (formerly Sixth@Penn) makes a splash with Richard Greenberg’s Three Days of Rain, thru June 9: Fri. at 8, Sat. at 4 & 8, Sun. at 2 (June 8 at 7 instead, also June 9 at 7:30). 3704 Sixth Ave., Hillcrest, 619-688-9210; compasstheatre.com.

Noel Coward’s Blithe Spirit haunts the Coronado Playhouse, thru June 1; then The True Tale of Sleeping Beauty wakes up the stage June 19-29: Thur.-Sat. at 8, Sun. at 2. 1835 Strand Way, Coronado, 619-435-4856; coronadoplayhouse.com.

Caryl Churchill’s A Number explores the issues of cloning humans, at Cygnet Theatre thru June 29: Thur.-Sat. at 8, Sun. at 2 & 7. 6663 El Cajon Blvd., Ste. N, 619-337-1525; ­cygnettheatre.com.

Terrence McNally’s Corpus Christi plays at  Diversionary Theatre thru June 1: Thur. at 7:30, Fri. & Sat. at 8, Sun. at 2 & 7. 4545 Park Blvd., ­University Heights, 619-220-0097; diversionary.org.

Ion Theatre presents Franz Xavier Kroetz’ Request Programme thru June 14: Thur.-Sat. at 8, Sun. at 7. Academy of Performing Arts, 4580-B Alvarado Canyon Rd., Mission Valley, 619-374-6894; iontheatre.com.

Liz Duffy Adams’ latest, The Listener, walks a chilling post-apocalyptic path, produced by Moxie Theatre June 15-29: Tues.-Fri. at 8, Sat at 2 (June 22 also at 7). Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown. 619-544-1000; moxietheatre.com.

Mystery Café’s interactive production When There’s a Will ... There’s a Wake takes place during dinner, thru June 28: Fri. & Sat. at 8 at the Imperial House Restaurant (505 Kalmia St., downtown). 619-544-1600; ­mysterycafe.net.

Clifford Odets’ Golden Boy shines for New Village Arts Theatre June 5–July 13: Thur. & Fri. at 8, Sat. at 3 & 8, Sun. at 2. 2787-B State St., Carlsbad, 760-433-3245; ­newvillagearts.org.

New Vision Theatre Company presents Marc Camoletti’s English farce Don’t Dress for Dinner, May 30–June 15: Fri. & Sat. at 8, Sun. at 2. Sunshine Brooks Theatre, 217 N. Coast Hwy., Oceanside, 760-529-9140; nvtheatre.com.

Onstage Playhouse presents the comedy/musical Groucho: A Life in Review, thru June 7: Thur.-Sat. at 8, Sun. at 2. 2931 Third Ave., Chula Vista, 619-422-7787; ­onstageplayhouse.org.

Patio Playhouse’s Youtheatre production of Bang Bang You’re Dead offers free performances May 23-25: Fri. & Sat. at 7, Sun. at 2. 201 E. Grand Ave., Ste. 1D, Escon­dido, 760-746-6669; patioplayhouse.com.

Poway Community Theatre stages Tennes­see Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire, June 15–July 8: Fri. & Sat. at 8, Sun. at 2. 13250 Poway Rd., Poway, 858-679-8085; powpac.org.

San Diego Musical Theatre salutes with Bye Bye Birdie, June 20-29 at the East County Performing Arts Center. 210 E. Main St., El Cajon, 619-588-0206; ecpaclive.com.

Scripps Ranch Theatre presents skit musical I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, thru June 14: Fri. & Sat. at 8, Sun. at 2. Legler Benbough Theatre, Alliant International University campus, 10455 Pomerado Rd., Scripps Ranch, 858-578-7728; ­scrippsranchtheatre.org.

New Perspective: A Festival of Theatre Artists makes its debut in association with Vantage Theatre, June 20-29: Fri. & Sat. at 8, Sun. at 7. Swedenborg Hall, 1531 Tyler Ave., University Heights; perspectivefest.com.

MUSIC

POP/ROCK

At Anthology: Jack Constanza, May 25 at 7:30; Anthology House Band, May 29 at 7:30; Sonny Landreth, May 30 & 31; Metro, June 5 at 7:30; Ivan Lins, June 13 &14; Hiromi, June 18 at 7:30; James Cotton, June 20. Shows are at 7:30 & 9:30 unless specified. 1337 India St., Little Italy, 619-595-0300; anthologysd.com.

At the Belly Up Tavern: Don Carlos with deejay Carlos Culture, May 25; Poncho Sanchez, May 29 at 8; Final Warning, May 30; Ladytron with Datarock, May 31; Com­mon Sense with Hoi Polloi and Los Chi­char­rones Guapos, June 6; Junior Brown and Rosie Flores & the Riveters, June 9 at 8; The Waiting Souls, June 12; The Young Dubliners, June 13; Cash’d Out, June 14; Dead Man’s Party, June 21; Gary Hoey, June 25 at 8; Atomic Punks, June 28. Shows at 9 unless noted. 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach, 858-481-8140; ­bellyup.com.

At Canes Bar & Grill: Atomic Punks (Van Halen tribute), Monsters Rock, May 25 at 9; Sound Escape and Vanity Fair, May 28 at 8; Six Reasons, A Shattered Hope, The Boneyard and Negative Filter, May 29 at 8; On the One and Blue Turtle Seduction, May 30 at 9; Living Legends and Murs, June 5 at 9; Hedpe, Subnoiz Soulijaz, Potluck and Dogboy, June 6 at 8; Rebirth Brass Band, June 7 at 9. 3105 Ocean Front Walk, Mission Beach, 858-488-1780; ­canesbarandgrill.com.

Rockin’ the Casbah: Bedford Grove, May*Star and Samuel Jaxon, May 25; Margot and Nuclear So and Sos, May 26; Ariel Pink, May 27; Ladyhawk, Neva Dovina and Team Abraham, May 28; Vagabond Opera, May 29; Swervedriver and Film School, May 29; Trevor Keith and Say Vinyl, May 31 at 6:30; OAKS, Archons and Damnweevil, June 1; The Black Angels and The Warlocks, June 3; Local H and The Photo Atlas, June 4; Calico Horse, June 6; The Ting Tings, June 7; Firewater, June 8; The Queers, Lemuria and Bomb the Music Industry, Andrew Jackson Jihad and Kepi Ghoulie, June 9; Detroit Cobras, Les San Culottes and Killola, June 10; Dax Riggs, June 11; Crystal Castles, June 12; Andre Legacy, Dirt Nasty and Beardo, June 13; Hayden, June 18; Sea Wolf, The Jealous Girlfriends and Patrick Park, June 20; The Napoleon Complex, A Beautiful Noise and Manganista, June 29. Doors open at 8:30 unless noted. 2501 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy; 619-232-4355; ­casbahmusic.com.

At Cox Arena: The Cure, June 3 at 7:30; Marco Antonio Solis, June 27 at 8. 5500 Canyon Crest Drive, SDSU campus, 619-594-6947; cox-arena.com.

At 4th and B: Al Al Showgirls, May 30 at 8; Emergenza Music Festival, June 21 at 8. 345 B St., downtown, 619-299-2583; 4thandb.com.

At House of Blues: The National, May 28; Kottonmouth Kings, May 30 at 6; Peter Murphy, June 4; Dead Kennedys with JFA, Mad Parade and Authentic Sell Out; June 7; Augustana, June 12; Old 97s with Hayes Carl, June 20; O.A.R., June 28. Shows at 8 unless noted. 1055 Fifth Ave., downtown, 619-299-2583; hob.com.

At San Diego Sports Arena: George Mi­chael, June 17 at 8. 3500 Sports Arena Blvd. 619-224-4174, sandiegoarena.com.

At Soma: Set Your Goals, Hit the Lights, I Am the Avalanche, The Years Gone By and Dear Life, May 25 at 6; Breath Carolina and Millionaires, May 27 at 7; Cinematic Sunrise, My American Heart, Daphny Loves Derby and Alive in Wild Paint, May 28 at 6:30; Mursic, May 31 at 7; Nightmare of You, The Graduate, Paper Rival and Edison Glass, June 1 at 6; Elysia, See You Next Tuesday and Knights of the Abyss, June 6 at 7; Strung Out and Authority Zero, June 7 at 7; The Matches and Scissors for Lefty, June 11 at 7; Black Dahlia Murder, Kataklysm, Vader, Cryptopsy, The Faceless, Despised Icon, Aborted, Born of Osiris, Psycropic and White Chapel, June 13 at 5; Sleeping Giant, Impending Doom, My Children My Bride, War of Ages, Before Their Eyes, Blessed by a Broken Heart, Soul Embraced, With Blood Comes Cleansing, Here I Come Falling and Agraceful, June 14 at 5; A Change of Pace, Houston Calls and We Shot the Moon, June 14 at 7. 3350 Sports Arena Blvd., 619-226-7662; somasd.com.

Valley View Casino presents Bruce in the USA (Bruce Springsteen tribute), June 18 at 8; Billy Idol, June 23 at 8. 16300 Nyermii Pass Rd., Valley Center, 866-VIEW-WIN; valleyviewcasino.com.

 CLASSIC­AL

The Fallbrook Music Society presents the Redlands Symphony Orchestra, May 25 at 7:30. Bob Burton Center for the Performing Arts, 2400 S. Stage Coach Lane, Fallbrook, 760-451-8644, fallbrookmusicsociety.org.

La Jolla Symphony & Chorus offers “...And Ending in Light,” with Richard Strauss’ Death and Transfiguration and music by American maverick Edgard Varése, June 7 at 8, June 8 at 3. Mandeville Auditorium, UCSD, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, 858-534-4637; lajollasymphony.com.

The 20th Mainly Mozart Festival runs June 10-22. Mainly Mozart Festival Orchestra and pianist John Lill, June 10 at 7; Mainly Mozart Festival Orchestra featuring cellist Ronald Thomas, June 12 at 8; John Lill, June 13 at 8; Mainly Mozart Festival Orchestra featuring clarinetist Michael Collins, June 14 at 8; violinist Martin Chalifour and pianist Joanne Pearce Martin, June 15 at 2; Mainly Mozart Festival Orchestra, June 17 at 8; Mainly Mozart Festival Orchestra featuring oboist Nathan Hughes, June 19 at 8; pianists Jeremy Denk and Adam Neiman, June 20 at 8. Mozart Binacional takes the Mainly Mozart Festival Orchestra, with oboist Nathan Hughes, to the Centro Cultural de Tijuana (9350 Paseo de los Héroes No., Zona Río, Tijuana, 011-52-664-687-96-35; cecut.gob.mx), June 20 at 8. The series concludes with a concert by the Mainly Mozart Festival Orchestra, June 21 at 8. Unless noted, performances are at the Balboa Theatre, 686 Fourth Ave., downtown, 619-570-1100; mainlymozart.com.

Poway Center for the Performing Arts presents violinist Eugene Fodor with the San Diego Youth Symphony Philharmonic, May 31 at 8. 15498 Espola Rd., Poway, 858-748-0505; powayarts.org.

The San Diego Symphony’s Summer Pops season starts with Frank Sinatra Jr., June 27 & 28 at 7:30. All shows at 7:30. Embarcadero Marina Park South, 111 W. Harbor Dr., downtown, 619-235-0804; ­sandiegosymphony.com.

 OF NOTE

Acoustic Music San Diego presents John Gorka, June 13; Roy Book Binder, June 20; Roy Zimmerman, June 27. Shows at 7:30. 4650 Mansfield St., Normal Heights, 619-303-8176; ­acousticmusicsandiego.com.

Athenaeum Music & Arts Library celebrates its 20th year of jazz with the Holly Hofmann Quintet performing music of Antonio Carlos Jobim, June 8 at 8 in the Irwin M. Jacobs Auditorium (Qualcomm Hall, 5775 Morehouse Dr., Sorrento Mesa). Concerts at the library include the Edward Simon Trio, June 15, and the Kendra Shank Quartet, June 28, both at 7:30. 1008 Wall St., La Jolla, 858-454-5872; ljathenaeum.org.

Bernardo Winery offers live jazz every Sun., 2-5, Mar. thru Nov. 13330 Paseo del Verano Norte, Poway, 858-487-1866; ­bernardowinery.com.

Birch Aquarium at Scripps’ Green Flash Seaside Concert Series features Rockola, June 18 at 6 in the outdoor tidepool plaza. 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, 858-534-3474; aquarium.ecsc.edu.

Carlsbad’s TGIF Jazz in the Parks series kicks off June 20 with the Debbie Davies Band; June 27, Janiva Magness. Shows at 6 in Stagecoach Park (3420 Camino de los Coches). 760-434-2904; carlsbadca.gov/arts.

Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay: Craig Ferguson, May 30 at 8; The Beach Boys, June 7 at 7:30; Erykah Badu and The Roots, June 10 at 7; Kem with N’dambi, June 12 at 8; Jonny Lang with Dave Barnes, June 13 at 7:30; Wanda Sykes with Keith Robinson; June 14 at 8; Crosby, Stills & Nash, June 17 at 8; Keb ’Mo and Taj Mahal, June 18 at 7; Indigo Girls with Brandi Carlile, June 19 at 7:30; Idina Menzel, June 20 at 7:30; Ani DiFranco with Martyn Joseph, June 25 at 7:30; OneHawaii Tour, June 26 & 27 at 7; Robert Plant and Alison Krauss with T-Bone Burnett, June 30 at 7. 2241 Shelter Island Dr., 629-220-8497; humphreysconcerts.com.

The 15th annual Lipinsky Family San Diego Jewish Arts Festival features musical performances by Benny Friedman with Sha-rone Kushnir and The Eighth Day, June 23 at 7:30; and the Klezmer Summit with Yale Strom and Una Noche Yiddische, June 30 at 7:30. Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, 619-544-1000; sandiegorep.com.

San Diego Folk Heritage’s annual Sam Hinton Folk Festival offers free performances and activities June 14, 10:30-5 in Templar’s Hall, Old Poway Park (14134 Midland Rd., Poway), concluding with a paid concert by Grunion Run at 7. 858-566-4040; ­sdfolkheritage.org.

soundON Festival of Modern Music celebrates its second year, June 19-21 at the Athenaeum, featuring the NOISE Ensemble and guest artists. 1008 Wall St., La Jolla, 858-454-5872; ljathenaeum.org.

The ninth annual San Diego Jewish Music Festival, thru Aug. 4, features Steven Cassidy playing music by Ernest Bloch and Darius Milhaud, May 27 at 7:30 in the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center (4126 Executive Dr., La Jolla). 858-362-1348; lfjcc.org.

San Diego Youth Symphony’s showcase concert is June 1 & 8 at 4. Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., downtown, 619-235-0804; sandiegosymphony.com.

The Spreckels Organ Society hosts free concerts every Sun. at 2, showcasing a variety of organists. Spreckels Organ Pavilion, Balboa Park, 619-702-8138; ­sosorgan.com.

 DANCE

Eveoke Dance Theatre presents “Soulos ... Green,” the fifth installment of a series that “seeks to connect colors of the soul to the heart of humanity.” Ericka Moore and Yvonne Hernandez choreograph the dance work, running thru June 1: Thur.-Sat. at 8, Sun. at 2 (no show May 29). Tenth Avenue Theatre, 930 10th Ave., 619-238-1153; eveoke.org.

Dance Jam, a freeform barefoot boogie open to all, lets participants dance with someone or by themselves, every Fri., 9-midnight. Sunset Temple behind Claire de Lune Coffee Lounge, 2906 University Ave., North Park, 619-298-2687; movingarts.net.

The Super Sonic Samba School features free lessons in Brazilian samba, with Rio de Janeiro Carnival marching drums, dancing and jamming samba reggae, every Wed. at 8 in the World Beat Center (2125 Park Blvd., Balboa Park) & Sun. at 1 (free drumming class at noon) in Pepper Grove Park, north of the center. 619-267-6356; sssamba.org.

USA Dance, San Diego chapter, holds a qualifying event for the 2009 Nationals, June 6-7 at the Holiday Inn Select Executive Center. Social dance parties, first and fourth Sat. of each month. Lessons at 7, dancing 8-11. First Sat. at Dance North County, 535 Encinitas Blvd., Ste. 100, Encinitas; fourth Sat. at Synergy Dance Zone, 7480 Miramar Rd. 760-525-5124; usabda.org.

FILM

Imax films at the Fleet: Mummies: Secrets of the Pharoahs takes a tour of ancient tombs. Grand Canyon Adventure: River at Risk combines science and adventure with an ecological message. Sea Monsters: A Prehistoric Adventure looks at long-ago underwater critters. Fridays at the Fleet offers a four-movie feature, starting at 6. Call for showtimes. Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, 1875 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619-238-1233; rhfleet.org.

The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego presents Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey, June 12 at 7; Planet of the Apes, June 16 at 7. 700 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858-454-3541; mcasd.org.

San Diego Natural History Museum’s wide-screen theater shows the giant-screen film Ocean Oasis, spotlighting the rich seas of Baja. Pompeii: The Last Day, through June 15, imagines the 79 A.D. eruption of Vesuvius. 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619-255-0203; sdnhm.org.

SPORTS, RUNS & WALKS

The San Diego Padres host the Cincinnati Reds, May 25 at 1:05; Seattle Mariners, May 27 & 28 at 7:05, May 29 at 1:05; Chicago Cubs, June 2-5 at 7:05; New York Mets, June 6 & 7 at 7:05, June 8 at 1:05; Los Angeles Dodgers, June 10 & 11 at 7:05, June 12 at 12:35; Detroit Tigers, June 20 & 21 at 7:05, June 22 at 1:05; Minnesota Twins, June 24 & 25 at 7:05, June 24 & 25 at 7:05, June 26 at 12:35; Seattle Mariners, June 27 & 28 at 7:05, June 29 at 1:05. Petco Park, 100 Park Blvd., East Village, 877-374-2784; sandiegopadres.com.

The San Diego Derby Dolls’ season continues with a bout June 7 at 6 at Skateworld (6907 Linda Vista Rd.). 619-820-4707; ­derbydolls.com. 

The seventh annual CYMER Shoot to Cure Huntington’s Disease is June 6 at 6 in Chargers Park, 4020 Murphy Canyon Rd., 619-225-2255; hdsasandeigo.org. 

San Diego Business Clubs America hosts its second annual Wheelchair Tennis Tournament and Luau, to benefit Sharp Rehabilitation Services, June 16 beginning at 11. George E. Barnes Tennis Center, 4490 West Point Loma Blvd., 888-738-7808; ­wheelchairtennisandluau.com. 

Patagonia hosts a surfboard swap June 20 and 21. No fee to participate, but those interested in selling need to preregister by June 18. 2185 San Elijo Ave., Cardiff, 760-634-9886; patagonia.com.

“A Caribbean Adventure” golf tournament tees off at the Bernardo Heights Country Club June 23, benefiting the Poway Center for the Performing Arts Foundation. 858-669-4798; powayarts.org. 

LAUGHS 

Starlight Theater at Pala Casino hosts Chelsea Handler, of the E! Entertainment series Chelsea Lately, June 14 at 8. 11154 Hwy. 76, Pala, 619-22-8497; palacasino.com.

Valley View Casino presents comic and Tonight Show host Jay Leno, June 26 at 8. 16300 Nyemii Pass Rd., Valley Center, 866-843-9946; valleyviewcasino.com.

The Comedy Palace offers a Greek buffet at 6 before the show, Thur.-Sat at 8. 8878 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., 858-573-9067; thecomedypalace.com. 

The Comedy Store hosts “The Best of San Di­ego” Wed. & Thur. at 8, Sun. at 6:45; “Date Comedians,” Fri. & Sat. at 8 & 10:30. 916 Pearl St., La Jolla, 858-454-9176; ­thecomedystore.com. 

National Comedy Theatre offers competitive improvisational humor, played like a sport, Fri. & Sat. at 7:30 & 9:45. 3717 India St., 619-295-4999; nationalcomedy.com.

FAMILY

Marionette and puppet shows put on by the Balboa Park Puppet Guild include “The Three Billy Goats Gruff,” May 28–June 1; “The Magic of Ventriloquism,” June 4-8; “Jack and the Beanstalk,” June 11-15; “Pico’s Pail,” June 18-22; “Cinderella,” June 25-29. Shows are Wed.-Fri. at 10 a.m., 11:30 & 1, Sat. & Sun. at 11, 1 & 2:30. Summer showtimes begin June 17: Wed.-Sun. at 11 a.m., 1 & 2:30. Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theatre (near the Air & Space ¬Museum), Balboa Park, 619-544-9203; balboaparkpuppets.com.

Birch Aquarium hosts “Grunion Groupies,” a fun, informative lecture on the elusive California grunion, May 24—June 15: Sat. 11-11:30, Sun. 1-1:30, with a grunion run June 4 at 9:30 p.m. The “Wonders of Water” exhibit lets patrons of all ages explore the wet stuff with three outdoor water-play stations. “Feeling the Heat: The Climate Challenge” educates about global warming. “The Art of Deception” exposes the secrets of camouflage. Open daily 9-5. Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, 858-534-FISH (3474); ­aquarium.ucsd.edu. 

Legoland California offers a new interactive musical, Journey to the Lost Temple, June 3–Sept. 5. 1 Legoland Dr., Carlsbad, 760-918-LEGO; legoland.com.

The New Children’s Art Museum opens its new home with a 19-artist exhibit called “childsplay,” on view thru May 2009, and offers summer programs for age groups from first grade all the way through high school, starting June 23. Thur.-Tues. 9-4. 200 W. Island Ave., downtown, 619-233-8792; thinkplaycreate.org.

Pacific Children’s Theatre presents an original musical adaptation of the popular children’s book Stone Soup, May 25 at 2, May 30 at 7, May 31 & June 1 at 2. At the Mission Hills United Church of Christ, 4060 Jackdaw St., 619-920-2838; ­pacificchildrenstheatre.org.

At the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center:  “Tinkering,” opening June 21, takes the idea of a hands-on exhibition seriously. “Strange Matter” delves into materials science, thru Sept. 3. “Listen Here! Making Sense of Sound” speaks to the science behind sound, thru June 8. “So Watt! An Illuminating Look at Energy” takes a peek at power. “Origins in Space,” a photographic display, demonstrates the role scientific discoveries play in our everyday lives. “Gallery of Illusions and ­Per­cep­tions” demonstrates how your mind and body work together——and sometimes against each other——to make sense of the world around you. “Aging for All Ages” discusses the process of aging. “Kid City” lets youngsters 6 and under experience the wonders of the everyday working world. “The Sky To­night” planetarium show is the first Wed. of the month at 7. Family Science Days are the third Sat. of the month, 12-3. 1875 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619-238-1233; rhfleet.org.

At the San Diego Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park, Family Day events illustrating basics of flight-related lessons take place the second Sat. of the month at 12:30, 1:30 & 2:30. 2001 Pan American Plaza, 619-234-8291; sandiegoairandspace.org.

Family fun at the San Diego Natural History Museum: Wacky Science Sundays with Ms. Frizzle and the Magic School Bus, at 12:15 & 2:15, explore wild and wacky mysterious creatures and hands-on science. 619-232-3821, ext. 8; sdnhm.org/frizzle. Nature, Mommy and Me, a story time for budding naturalists, tells tales every second Thur. of the month at 11. San Diego Plant Family Forum offers classes about local flora and fauna found in San Diego County, every Wed., 6:30-8:30. 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619-255-0203; sdnhm.org. 

A variety of classic toy trains toot their way through the San Diego Model Railroad Museum’s American Flyer exhibit, thru June 1. 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park; 619-696-0199; sdmrm.org.

Sesame Street Live: When Elmo Grows Up takes over the San Diego Sports Arena for songs amd furry, feathered Muppet fun, June 26 at 7, June 27 at 10:30, June 28 at 10:30 (benefit for KPBS) & 2, June 29 at 1 & 4:30. 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., 619-224-4174; sandiegoarena.com, kpbs.org/sesame.

SeaWorld debuts its Sesame Street attraction with family-friendly rides and games, May 24. 500 Sea World Dr., Mission Bay, 619-266-3901; seaworld.com.

MUSEUMS

At the California Center for the Arts, Escondido Museum: “Innocence Is Questionable” features works by San Diego artists Raul Guerrero, Jean Lowe, May-ling Martinez, Iana Quesnell, Ernest Silva and Yvonne Venegas, thru May 31. “Contemporary Ruin: A Selection of Prints from the Los Angeles Printmaking Society” runs June 28–Sept. 28. Tues.-Sat. 10-4, Sun. 12-4. 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, 760-839-4120; ­artcenter.org. 

Coronado Museum of History & Art displays “Talismans of the Turkoman: Traditions of a Warrior Tribe,” thru May 26. Mon.-Fri. 9-5, Sat. & Sun. 10-5. 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619-522-8754; ­coronadohistory.org.

At Lux Art Institute: Julie Heffernan’s elaborate self-portraits, thru May 31. Daniel Wheeler presents his new photographic collection, “GULP (Generative Urban Landscape Project),” and work-in-progress, Blindspot, June 6–July 12 (reception June 7, 5:30-7). Family Day is June 14, 1-4; Lux@Night is June 18, 7-9; both events are free. Thur. & Fri. 1-5, Sat. 11-5. 1550 South El Camino Real, Encinitas, 760-436-6611, ­luxartinstitute.org. 

At Mingei International Museum: “Forms in Fiber & Wood” by designer Jerimiah Maloney opens June 7. “Hungarian Folk Magic——The Art of Joseph Domjan,” thru Aug. 31. “American Viewing Stones——Natural Art in the Asian Tradition” and “Chinese Woodblock Prints——The Ten Bamboo School,” ongoing. Tues.-Sun. 10-4. 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619-239-0003; mingei.org. Mingei’s North County satellite offers an exhibit of toys and kites, “Art of Play,” thru June 29. “Artful Armadillos,” thru Sept. 7, features more than 50 representations of the armor-plated mamals. Tues.-Sat. 11-5 (second Sat. 10-8), Sun. noon-4. 155 W. Grand Ave., Escon­dido. 

At the downtown site of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (1001 & 1100 Kettner Blvd., 619-234-1001): “Maya Lin: Systematic Landscapes,” thru June 30, features recent sculptures, drawings and large-scale installations. The Cerca Series, thru July 6, features Nina Katchadourian and Joshua Mosley. Wed.-Mon. 11-5 (Thur. till 7). At the La Jolla location (700 Prospect St., 858-454-3541): Neon sculptures and light-room installations are the focus of “Elusive Signs: Bruce Nauman Works with Light,” May 25–Aug. 31. “Selections from Skeet McAuley: The Garden of Golf,” thru June 22. Thur.-Tues. 11-5 (Thur. till 7). mcasd.org.

At the Museum of Making Music: “The Violin in America: Old World Tradition, New World Sound,” thru Sept. 7. “That Beatles Sound: Recording @ Abbey Road,” thru July 31. Tues.-Sun. 10-5. 5790 Armada Dr., Carlsbad, 877-551-9976; museumofmakingmusic.org.

At the Museum of Photographic Arts: “Picturing the Process: Portraiture Through the Lens,” thru July 6. “Flesh: Portraits by Gary Schneider,” thru Sept. 14. “Humanitas: Images of India by Frederic Roberts,” thru Sept. 7. Tues.-Sun. 10-5 (Thur. till 9). 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619-238-7559; mopa.org.

Ongoing exhibits at the San Diego Air & Space Museum: “Dawn of Powered Flight,” “World War I,” “The Golden Age of Flight,” “World War II” and “The Jet Age.” At Gillespie Field (335 Kenney St., El Cajon), the museum presents the Kit, Model & Aviation Collectable Show, June 21, 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Museum open daily 10-4:30. 2001 Pan ­American Plaza, Balboa Park, 619-234-8291; sandiegoairandspace.org.

At the San Diego Art Institute’s Museum of the Living Artist: Dan Adams’ “Detour” and Michele Guieu’s “Here It’s Peace,” June 5–July 15. Tues.-Sat. 10-4, Sun noon-4. 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619-236-0011; sandiego-art.org.

The San Diego Hall of Champions features exhibits on surfing, baseball-card art, Thoroughbred horse racing, Tony Hawk and locals who’ve achieved national fame. The “San Diego Wrestling” exhibit focuses on Stephen Neal. Daily 10-4:30. 2131 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park, 619-234-2544; sdhoc.com.

San Diego Historical Society (619-232-6203; sandiegohistory.org) attractions: “Building an Early Identity: One Place, Many Cultures” is the second phase of a developing core exhibition, “Place of Promise: Stories of San Diego.” “Dressing a City: Selected Styles from Marston’s Department Store, 1878-1961” takes a tour of San Diego’s longtime hometown store, with fashions and accessories. Daily 10-5. 1649 El Prado, Casa de Balboa, Balboa Park. The Serra Museum show­cases an exhibit “Celebrating 80 Years.” See how native peoples used the area above Old Town, long before the Spanish and the Mexicans came, in “Life on Presidio Hill.” Daily 10-4:30. 2727 Presidio Dr., Presidio Park. Historic Marston House is open Fri.-Sun. 10-4:30. 3525 Seventh Ave., Balboa Park.

At the San Diego Museum of Art: “Georgia O’Keeffe and the Women of the Stieglitz Circle,” May 24–Sept. 28, features more than 80 paintings, drawings, and photographs. “Designs on Each Other: Indian Paintings and European Prints” and “Mexico: Promise and Possibility,” both thru June 15. “Inside the Wave: Six San Diego/Tijuana Artists Construct Social Art,” thru June 22. “Tastes in Asian Art,” thru July 13. “A Portrait of America: Selections from SDMA’s Permament Collection,” ongoing. Tues.-Sun. 10-6 (Thur. till 9). 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619-232-7931; ­sdmart.org. 

At the San Diego Museum of Man: “People, Posters and Politics: China 1955-1999” features the work of Chinese artist Yang Xianrang. The Tower After Hours monthly event focuses on global cultures through regional food, dance and music, June 26, 6-8. Daily 10-4:30. 1350 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619-239-2001; ­museumofman.org. 

At the San Diego Natural History Museum: “A Day in Pompeii,” featuring excavated art and artifacts, thru June 15. “Dangerous Volcanoes of the World,” with satellite images and photos of the world’s active volcanoes, thru June 15. “Enraptured: Works by Mitch Dobrowner,” a collection of surreal photography, thru Aug. 3. “Aerial Portraits of the American West: Photographs by John Shelton,” thru Nov. 2. “Fossil Mysteries,” exploring the fossil history of our region, looks at the development of life today using the window of the past, with interactive displays that let visitors play paleontologist. Daily 10-5. 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619-255-0205; sdnhm.org. 

At the Timken Museum of Art: The Putnam Foundation Collection is on permanent display, with European old-master paintings, Russian icons and American art as the primary focus. Tues.-Sat. 10-4:30, Sun. 1:30-4:30. 1500 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619-239-5548; timkenmuseum.org.

GALLERIES 

Art Expressions Gallery includes limited-edition exhibits by Marsha Boston, Joanne Crosby, Daniel Gerhartz, Ted Goerschner, Ros Hill, Sharon Burkett Kaiser, Bill Mosley, Hajime Namiki, Henri Plisson, Gerald Rahm, Sandra Sallin, Blossom Sanger and Zuniga. Mon.-Fri. 9-5, Sat. 10-5. 2645 Financial Ct., Ste. C, 858-270-7577; artexpressionsgallery.com.

At the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library: The Main Gallery presents works by Ken Goldman, thru June 14. The Rotunda Gallery hosts the sixth annual SDSU Art Council Scholarship Exhibition, thru June 14. Tues.-Sat. 10-5:30 (Weed. Till 8:30). 1008 Wall St., La Jolla, 858-454-5872; ljathenaeum.org.

Celebrations Fine Arts Gallery, newly opened at the U.S. Grant Hotel, offers contemporary works by more than 90 artists, as well as sculptures by legendary French artist Renoir. Sun.-Thur. 11-7, Fri. & Sat. 11-9. 326 Broadway, downtown, 619-232-3121.

At Distinction Artist Studios & Gallery: Works by Jenn Porreca, Jeni Yang and Alex Willan are on display thru June 7; solo show featuring Isaac Pierro, June 11–July 5. Wed.-Fri. noon-5, Sat. 10-5 (second Sat. till 8) & by appt. 317 E. Grand Ave., Escondido, 760-781-5779; distinctionart.com.

Four Walls Gallery displays prints and drawings by Steve Gibson, thru July 9. Thur.-Sat. 11-6. 3813 Ray St., North Park, 619-501-0879; 4wallsgallery.com.

At Gallery 23, the Southwestern Artists Association features more than 50 local artists’ handcrafted items and artwork, with monthly spotlighted artists. June 1-15, Edward Juarez and Jennifer Meeder; SWAA board members show, June 16-30. Spanish Village Art Center, 1770 Village Place, Balboa Park, 619-232-3522; swartists.com.

At Luis De Jesus Seminal Projects: New light sculptures by Claude Zervas and new photographs by Darius Kuzmickas, thru May 31. “Lael Corbin: Remodel,”  a new site-specific installation, June 6–July 5 (reception June 6, 6:30-9:30). 2040 India St., Little Italy, 619-696-9699; ­seminalprojects.com.

At Madison Gallery: Dutch-American artist Luc Leestemaker’s “Earth Songs” exhibit, June 7 at 7. 1020 Prospect St., Ste. 130, La Jolla, 858-459-0836; madisongalleries.com.

At Ordover Gallery: Works by Sharon Anthony and Donna Cosentino, thru June 29 (reception May 31, 5-8). Wed.-Sat. 10-5, Sun. noon-5. 444 S. Cedros Ave., Studio 172, Solana Beach, 858-720-1121; ordoverproject.com.

The Point Loma/Hervey Branch Library houses a group exhibition of works by leading contemporary artists of San Diego, ongoing. Mon. & Wed. 12:30-8, Tues. & Thur. 9:30-5:30, Fri. 12:30-5:30, Sat. 9:30-2:30, Sun. 1-5. 3701 Voltaire St., 619-531-1539; sandiego.gov/public-library. 

At UCSD’s gallery@calit2: “Exposure,” a video installation about surveillance pre-9/11, thru June 6. Atkinson Hall, UCSD campus, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla; gallery.calit2.net.

“Transformations 07: Reverberations,” traveling exhibit of art quilts, thru May 25 at Visions Art Quilt Gallery. Tues.-Sun. 10-4. NTC Promenade, 2825 Dewey Rd., Ste. 100, San Diego, 619-546-4872; quiltvisions.org.

Thumbprint Gallery's grand opening and art show takes place Saturday, June 27, 6-midnight, with music and artists. 3925 Ohio St., thumbprintgallerysd.com.

ET CETERA

San Diego Repertory Theatre’s 15th annual Party with a Point of View, rescheduled from May, uses Balboa Park’s Prado restaurant as launching pad for its bash for the benefit of the company’s programs and plays, June 7 at 6:30. 619-231-3586, ext. 620; partywithapointofview.com.

The 20th annual Spring Fling benefiting Helen Woodward Animal Center is themed “Hollywoof: A Tribute to the Golden Age,” June 7 at 6:30. 6461 El Apajo Rd., Rancho Santa Fe, 858-756-4117; animalcenter.org.   

Voices of Women presents its international event, “Women’s Rights Are Human Rights,” June 17 at 7 in the Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice. 5998 Alcala Park, USD campus, 858-642-6770; ­voicesofwomen.org. 

It's All About the Girl's monthly Girl's Day Out takes place June 18, 1-5 p.m. with free live karaoke, a giant prize wheel, the gift boutique, complimentary cookies and pink lemonade, and more. 2445 Truxtun Rd., Ste. 201, 619-222-4475; itsallaboutthegirl.com.

The Del Mar Village Association’s 2008 Summer Solstice event features culinary creations from Del Mar’s fine restaurants, drinks from local wineries and breweries, music and a silent auction, June 19, 5-8 at Powerhouse Park. delmarmainstreet.com. 

San Diego Center for Children hosts its annual dinner, June 18 at US Grant Hotel in downtown San Diego. 858-277-9550; ­centerforchildren.org.

See the finale of America's Gay Bachelor, June 20 at the W Hotel, with celebrity guest judges and an all-access after-party at Universal. 7-10 p.m., 421 W. B St., 415-3586868, myPartner.com.

Rendezvous in the Zoo (R.I.T.Z.), themed “Silver Safari,” benefits the Zoological Society of San Diego. Proceeds go toward creating small bird and mammal habitats in the Elephant Odyssey exhibit. June 21 at 6:30 in the San Diego Zoo, 2920 Zoo Dr., 619-234-3153; sandiegozoo.org.

Kensington and Normal Heights neighborhoods team up to present a variety of cuisines at the eighth annual Taste of Adams Avenue, June 22, 11-3. 619-233-5008; adamsaveonline.com. 

The Museum of Photographic Arts celebrates Indian culture (and its current exhibit) with the Passage to India Gala, June 27 at 7. 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619-238-7559, ext. 227; mopa.org.

The 22nd annual La Jolla Festival of the Arts displays local artists and live entertainment, June 28 & 29, 9-5 in UCSD’s East Campus parking lots. Genesee Ave. & Regents Rd., La Jolla, 858-456-1268; ­lajollaartfestival.org.

UCSD’s ArtPower presents a book reading with author David Sedaris, June 30 at 8 in the Copley Symphony Hall, 1245 7th Ave.,619-235-0804; artpower.ucsd.edu.

At Del Mar at Dusk, watch the seaside sunset when businesses in the village of Del Mar stay open late for a night of music, food, art displays and promotions, first Tues. of each month, 6-8. 15th St. near Del Mar Plaza, 619-7555-1179; ­delmarinfo.org.

At dusk on the first Wed. of each month, the San Diego Astronomy Association hosts Stars in the Park, a public telescope viewing event outside the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center. 1875 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619-238-1233; rhfleet.org.

The Rancho Santa Fe Art Guild presents Art and Music in the Courtyard, each Fri. at 3:30. 6004 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe, 858-759-3545.

Nature walk with a trail guide, first Sat. of each month at 9:30 a.m. Marian Bear Me­mor­ial Park, Hwy. 52 & Regents Rd., 858-581-9944. 

The Downtown Business Association of Escondido’s Second Saturday Art Walk takes place each month, 11-8. Downtown Escondido centered around Grand Ave., 760-745-8877; downtownescondido.com.

The Carlsbad-Oceanside Art League pre­sents a juried Fine Art Show, every Sat. & Sun., 9-4, on the lawn in front of the Carlsbad Inn, 3075 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad; carlsbadinnart.blogspot.com. 

Art Mart features displays by local artists, including paintings, woodwork, jewelry and pottery, first and third Sat. & Sun. of the month, 9-4. Balboa Park, lawn area near Federal Bldg., 619-235-1105. 

Tours are available for Queen Califia’s Magical Circle, a unique mosaic sculpture garden by Niki de St. Phalle, open Tues.-Sun. from 8:30 to dusk. Kit Carson Park, 3333 Bear Valley Pkwy., Escondido, 760-839-4331; queencalifia.org. 

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