THEATER

“Man of La Mancha,” Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire: through Sunday, Aug. 14. Show times: 8 p.m. (and some 1 p.m.) Wednesdays, 8 p.m. (and some 1 p.m.) Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays, 4:30 and 8 p.m. Saturdays, and 1 and 5 p.m. Sundays. One of the world’s most popular musicals, “Man of La Mancha” tells the adventures of a delusional Spanish knight who sallies forth on a quest to restore chivalry to the world, claim his lady love and dare to dream “The Impossible Dream.” Tickets: $50-$55. Box office: (847) 634-0200 or marriotttheatre.com.

“The Velveteen Rabbit,” Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire: 10 a.m. now through Sunday, Aug. 14. Though the most modest toy in the nursery, the Velveteen Rabbit earns the love of a young boy and learns about the joys and pain of becoming “real.” This is a one-hour presentation for kids (and parents) of all ages. Each performance is followed by a Question & Answer session with the cast. Tickets: $15. Box office: (847) 634-0200 or marriotttheatre.com.

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” First Folio Theatre, Mayslake Peabody Estate, 31st St. and Route 83, Oak Brook: 8:15 p.m. now through Sunday, Aug. 14. You are invited to pack a picnic and enjoy this Shakespeare Under the Stars offering. “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” draws on Greek mythology and Shakespeare’s imagination to tell a story of magic and the difficulties of love. The perfect show for families; come laugh at the antics of the mischievous Puck as this fantastical fairy turns the world upside-down for the quartet of lovers, and the crazed Bottom, driving them to wild antics in the forest, all in the beautiful outdoor environment of the historic Mayslake Peabody Estate. Free parking is available on the grounds. Tickets cost $29 Wednesdays and Thursdays (seniors and students are $25), and $39 on Fridays through Sundays (seniors and students are $35). Box office: (630) 986-8067 or firstfolio.org.

MUSIC

Chicago Sinfonietta, Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4. Maestro Mei-Ann Chen and the innovative Sinfonietta will cap off the park’s all-day McCormick Day celebration. The first half of this special evening of music will be pure Americana featuring Charles Ives’ “Variations on America” and selections from Aaron Copland. After a brief intermission, the Sinfonietta will welcome members of the Mosaic Choir from Waubonsie Valley High School in Aurora. Selections will include Alexander Borodin’s Polovtsian Dances followed by the evening’s grand finale, Tchaikovsky’s ever-popular “1812 Overture.” This concert is Cantigny’s gift to the community in honor of the park’s benefactor, Robert R. McCormick. No tickets are needed and parking also is complimentary.

Bacon Brothers Concert, Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, Campbell Street and Vail Avenue (111 W. Campbell St.) downtown Arlington Heights: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 17, and Thursday, Aug. 18. The Bacon Brothers are anything but a typical rock band. Brothers Michael and Kevin Bacon, each accomplished in their own right, play gritty rock that is unapologetically unique and

authentic. Their style can best be described by their first album title, Forosoco, a word describing the blend of folk, rock, soul and country influences. Now, nearly 20 years later, The Bacon Brothers continue to impress audiences and critics with their soulful sound and their latest offering of Americana 36 Cents.Tickets are $70, Stage Tables are $80. All tickets can be purchased at MetropolisArts.com or by calling the Box Office at (847) 577-2121.

“Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash,” Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights: now through Sunday, Aug. 28. Show times: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays, 7 p.m. Saturdays, 3 p.m. Sundays. Additional show time: 1 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25. Decades of incredible songs performed by a multitalented ensemble sweep the audience through the musical journey of Johnny’s life, including gospel, folk, country and rock, along with incredible duets with his soul mate, June Carter. Street parking is available. Free parking is available in the public garage behind the theater. Tickets: $38 and can be purchased online at MetropolisArts.com or by calling the box office at (847) 577-2121.

The Festival Chorus, Harper College, Palatine: 7:30 to 10 p.m. Mondays. Accepting adult vocalists. No audition necessary. Voice placement only. Information: (847) 533-0107.

SHOWS

Perseid Meteor Shower Star Party, Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton: 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. Friday, Aug. 12. Adler Planetarium and Cantigny present this annual family-friendly stargazing event. Astronomers and casual stargazers alike look forward to the Perseid meteor shower every year in the late summer night sky. The meteors or “shooting stars” are best viewed at their peak, which this year will be Aug. 12-13. The “Star Party,” which sold out in 2015, is ideal for all ages. Space-related activities for kids, live music and presentations by Adler astronomers are among the attractions before the main event as the sky darkens. Meteors can be seen with the naked eye but telescopes will be set up on the Cantigny Parade Field for close looks at stars and planets — many of them viewable well before dark. Picnics are welcome and Bertie’s Café will stay open until 9 p.m. for snacks and ice cream. General admission advance tickets are $12 for adults or $15 on Aug. 12. Advance ticket sales end at midnight on Aug. 11. Tickets for children ages 3-11 are $9 (in advance or day of event). Adler Planetarium and Cantigny Park members may purchase adult tickets in advance for $9. Parking is free for ticket holders. Ticket sales are through Adler Planetarium. To purchase tickets and for additional event information visit www.adlerplanetarium.org/events/perseid-star-party. The Perseid Meteor Shower Star Party is a rain or shine event. All ticket sales are final and no refunds will be issued.

ON STAGE

“Seussical,” Schaumburg on Stage at Barrington High School, 616 W. Main St., Barrington: 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5; 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6; 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 7. Tickets: $15 online, $16 at the door. Visit schaumburgonstage.org/tickets or ShowTix4u.com.

“My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy,” North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie: now through Sunday, Aug. 7. One-part standup, one-part theatrical, “My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy” is the story of Brad Zimmerman’s struggle to fulfill his dream and make it as a comedic actor in New York. He spent 29 years “temporarily” waiting tables in New York, while continuing to pursue his dream of comedic acting. Tickets start at $40, and will be available online at MySonTheWaiter.com or by phone at (847) 673-6300. For group rates (10+) call (312) 423-6612. For more information visit mysonthewaiter.com.

“Mothra,” Rosemont 18 Movie Theatre, 9701 Bryn Mawr Ave., Rosemont: 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 18. (Encore at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 23.) RiffTrax Live, in association with Fathom Events, presents “Mothra.” Kevin, Bill and Mike team up to riff, roast and toast one of the most beloved (and bizarre!) Japanese monster classics of all-time. Explorers travel to a remote island where they kidnap two tiny women, thereby inciting the wrath of a giant larvae, which then swims the ocean, cocoons itself in downtown Tokyo, emerges as the titular Mothra and destroys everything it finds in its path. Tickets for all RiffTrax Live events via www.carmike.com.

PROGRAMS

World War I Lecture, Visitors Center at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The First Division Museum welcomes historian Anthony L. Powell. He will discuss the letters and ideas of Chaplain William S. Braddan, the only African-American officer from World War I who left a first-person record of his service in France. The story of William Braddan is rich and fascinating. He was born in a troop wagon of the 10th Cavalry Regiment of the U.S. Army on the Texas frontier, his father being a sergeant with the regiment. At age 16 he enlisted with the regiment himself and eventually participated in the Great War as a member of 370th Infantry, the only unit commanded entirely by black officers. After his military service, Braddan relocated to Chicago, becoming the pastor of Berean Baptist Church and Chaplain for the 8th Infantry Regiment of the Illinois National Guard. A cash bar will accompany a limited food menu. Coffee is complimentary. The program is free. Parking also is complimentary for this event.

New Regenstein Learning Campus, Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10, and Sunday, Sept. 11. The Chicago Botanic Garden celebrates the opening of the Regenstein Learning Campus, a new seven-acre hub for plant-based community and civic engagement, intergenerational learning, hands-on coursework, and health and wellness activities. Visitors can engage in a weekend full of mini-classes showcasing what the Garden’s education programs have to offer. Visitors can check out classes like yoga, tai chi, photography, botanical drawing, and more. Register for full classes at opening weekend and receive an additional 10 percent discount. Visitors will also get to explore the new campus and its gardens, hear live music, and participate in a scavenger hunt. Entertainment will feature a variety of music for and by children and adults. Windy City Harvest, the Garden’s urban agriculture program, will have a farm stand with fresh produce. Visit www.chicagobotanic.org/education/opening_weekend.

EXHIBITS

“Toys: The Inside Story,” Kohl Children’s Museum, Glenview: now through Sept. 4. This hands-on exhibit explores what makes toys tick. Information: (847) 832-6600.

FUN & GAMES

Destination Asia, Morton Arboretum, 4100 Rt. 53, Lisle: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, and Sunday, Aug. 7. Explore Asian cultures through music, dance, sumo wrestlers and more. Information: (630)-968-0074.

Movie in the Park: “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade,” Cantigny Park Bandshell, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton: 8:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5. Celebrate summer with a family movie night under the stars. Seating is on the grass by the red band shell. Blankets, chairs and snacks welcome. Free with paid parking ($5).

Movie Nights, Oakbrook Center, near Macy’s and Crate & Barrel: 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 10. Watch family-friendly films on an outdoor big screen. “Goosebumps” on Aug. 3, “Zootopia” on Aug. 10. Information: (630) 573-0700. Free.

Afternoon Adventures, Des Plaines History Center, 781 Pearson St., Des Plaines: 1 to 3 p.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 10. Experience history, art, dance and nature. Fee: $3 per child for nonmembers, $2 per child for members. Information: (847) 391-5399.

Uniquely Thursdays, Burlington Park, 30 E. Chicago Ave., Hinsdale: 6 to 9 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 11. Live music, food, giveaways and family fun. Information: (630) 323-3952. Free admission.

Bikes, Branches and Bites, Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle: 3 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13. cyclists can enjoy vehicle-free roads, music and food truck vendors. Information: (630) 968-0074.

French Connection Day, Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14. A day long festival celebrating all things French. Information: (630) 668-5161.

BluesMobile Cruise Nights, Metra depot, Northwest Highway and Elmhurst Road, Mount Prospect: 6 to 9 p.m. every Saturday now through Oct. 1. Ten classic car clubs will

hold their monthly meetings at the show. Each Saturday night there is a theme and families can dress up for that night. Live music and giveaways from radio station media partners. The event is podcast at WSDI.com as the BluesMobile Cruise Nights Radio Hour for those who cannot attend in person.

PLANTS & ANIMALS

Canine Carnival, Palatine Park District Amphitheater, 250 E. Wood St., Palatine: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4. Carnival for dogs. Goody bags, raffles, photos and vendors. Fees: $6 for preregistration until 7 p.m. Aug. 3; $8 registration at the carnival. Registration and information: (847) 991-0333.

Dog Days, Cantigny Park Parade Field, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. Enjoy everything canine at this annual event with special entertainment and vendors. $10 parking fee. Information: (630) 668-5161.

Wild Wednesday, Cantigny Park Visitors Center backyard, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton: 1 to 3 p.m. every Wednesday through Aug. 10. Kids ages 3-10 will enjoy hands-on nature exploration through games and crafts. Each week has a different theme. No signup necessary, just drop in. Free with paid parking ($5).

Summer Nights, Brookfield Zoo, 8400 W. 31st St., Brookfield: 4 to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturday now through Saturday, Aug. 13. Enjoy roaming performers, beer and wine gardens, kids’ entertainment, live music and a laser light show. Tickets after 4 p.m.: $15.95 adults, $10.95 kids ages 3-11 and seniors 65 and older. Information: (708) 688-8000.

Hummingbird Fest, Sagawau Environmental Learning Center, 12545 W. 111th St., Lemont: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 20. See how hummingbirds are banded for tracking. Information: (630) 257-2045.

Farm Chores, Kline Creek Farm, County Farm Road, 1/2 mile south of North Avenue, West Chicago: 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays through Aug. 29. Learn about chores and family life in the 1890s through a variety of activities. Information: (630) 876-5900.

Thursday Family Nights, Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle: 5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays in August. Enjoy live music, kid-friendly fare, and entertainment after hours in the Children’s Garden. Be sure to explore the Children’s Garden, Maze Garden, and Tree House Tales. No registration required. Arboretum admission is $5 after 4:30 p.m.

Ribbit! The Exhibit, Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle: now through Sept. 25. Ribbit! The Exhibit features 19 displays of 5-7-foot-tall copper frogs taking part in a variety of activities, including playing instruments, catching butterflies and meditating on a lily pad, located along the paths within walking distance of the Visitors Center.

Nature Story Time, Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe: 10 a.m. Mondays. Stop by for nature-themed stories and activities in the Lenhardt Library.