Nov. 22: Monster Intelligence Melvin the monster is growing up fast — but he’s still not old enough to get his scream license. On his birthday, he makes a special wish to get his license early — and the Division for Monster Screams grants his request, but on one condition: First he must pass a difficult test to prove he is ready. Up in Arms puppet theater puts on this show, which is filled with colorful monsters and original songs that range from rock to classical to pop. 11 a.m. $9, $7 children. The Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck. 661 Rte. 308, Rhinebeck, 845-876-3080; www.centerforperformingarts.org
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Nov. 2: Dan Zanes Gusto Hour Don’t just sing in the shower — sing at the top of your lungs with popular performer Dan Zanes. If you’re worried you won’t know the words, don’t be: Zanes provides songbooks so the audience can follow along. Those who own musical instruments are encouraged to bring them. 3 p.m. $18. Nov. 22: Peter and the Wolf We all know the tale of the young boy who sets off in pursuit of the big bad wolf. This dance performance (full of ballet, tap, and modern elements) brings the well-known story to the stage — but sets it in present-day New York City. 11 a.m. $10. The Egg. Empire State Plaza, Albany, 518-473-1845. www.theegg.org
Nov. 23: Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse Lilly is accustomed to being the smartest and best student in school. When she brings her purple purse to show her class, she can’t wait to talk about it — but her teacher asks her to wait a while. She doesn’t want to, and ends up having the purse taken away. Angry Lilly draws a mean picture of her teacher and hides it in his book bag. But she soon realizes her mistake, and looks for a way to make it up to her teacher. Recommended ages 4 and up. 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. $15. The Emelin Theatre. 153 Library Ln., Mamaroneck, 914-698-0098; www.emelin.org
Nov. 29: Walk to the Beat, Junior Dance of all kinds is celebrated at this interactive performance put on by the ArtsRock Milk and Cookies Playhouse. Blending everything from flamenco to tap styles, dancers perform thrilling numbers to the exciting percussive music that plays throughout the show. Afterwards, the audience can interact with dancers, receive lessons, and watch demonstrations. 2 p.m. $15, under 18 months free. The Nyack Center. 58 Depew Ave., Nyack, 845-278-7762; www.artsrock.org
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Nov. 29: The Nutcracker The New York Theatre Ballet is known for adapting classic works into hour-long performances suitable for kids, but sophisticated enough for adults. Kick off the holiday season with the troupe’s production of The Nutcracker, the classic Christmas tale of Clara, a young girl who receives a nutcracker as a gift. When it turns out that the nutcracker is a prince under a spell, Clara is drawn into his world to help him break the spell and regain his kingdom. 3 & 6 p.m. $35. Tarrytown Music Hall. 13 Main St., Tarrytown, 914-631-3390; www.tarrytownmusichall.org
