In a world where a trip to the Laundromat threatens to separate Trixie from her beloved bunny, a girl needs a hero to help--Dad. Can her parents understand what she's saying in time to rescue Knuffle Bunny? Performances run Oct. 2, 2012-Jan. 6, 2013.

This third installment continues the marriage of classic literature to music. Students will be introduced to Blues concepts along with other contemporary music. Playwright J. e Franklin reconstructs timeless fables about morals and values that stimulate critical thinking in a setting filled with music, fun, and laughter. Showtimes are 10 a.m. and noon Monday-Friday from Oct. 29-June 14. Summer performances are June 24-Aug. 2.

Teenage DeShawn goes from making exceptional to poor grades in a matter of months due to the violent death of his best friend and the break-up of his family. Presented in collaboration with the University of Chicago Urban Health Initiative, this performance examines the need to recognize signs of depression in youth due to family disintegration and violence. Performances run Oct. 29-June 14.

See a variety of styles ranging from hip-hop, ballet, tap and jazz to contemporary and more. The festival is a cornerstone of the city's fall dance season and showcases more than 300 individual dynamic acts from more than 2,500 talented dancers and choreographers from some of Chicago's best dance companies. Check website for schedule. Oct. 20-Dec. 1.

Street Tempo Theatre takes the audience on a seasonal adventure with singing, dancing, stories, interactive games and non-holiday specific eggnog. Previews are 3 and 8 p.m. Nov. 15, 16 and 17. Regular run is 8 p.m. Fridays, 3 and 8 p.m. Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays Nov. 23-Dec. 30.

Performances are 7 p.m. Nov. 15, 5:30 and 7:30 Nov. 16, 1 and 3:30 p.m. Nov. 17-18,

The story of Ariel is performed at7 p.m. Nov. 15; 5 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 16; 1 and 3:30 p.m. Nov. 17-18.

A new respite care program offers free childcare for children with special needs. The program is free for all families. No affiliation with the church or any church is required.Facilities specific to children with special needs include: wheelchair access, quiet room, sensory wall, playroom, nursery, accessible restroom and changing table.Volunteers are trained with sensitivity and knowledge to care for children with autism, Down syndrome, behavioral disorders, cerebral palsy, speech and language impairments, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, and developmental/cognitive disabilities. There is a place for any child affected by special needs, as well as their siblings. Childcare is provided from 5-8 p.m. on Thursday evenings. Children may be dropped off and picked up at any time during this period. Parents are welcome to spend time in the facilities to observe, meet other parents, or connect with volunteers. To register, email or call Amy Giacalone, churchinroscoevillage@gmail.com.

Just as Victor Frankenstein created his monster from parts of many different people, this new iteration of "500 Clown Frankenstein" is constructed by a cast of rotating performers. Five clowns reconfigure into three different casts, each charged with the same task: "make monster."

Write and decorate letters to those in service to our community, and our country, during the holiday season.