On stage
NYE improv
Usher out 2008 with improv comedy at Laugh Out Loud Theater, located in Schaumburg's Streets of Woodfield. Besides the show, the LOL New Year's Eve party includes dinner, cocktails and a champagne toast.
5:30 and 9:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, at 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg. Tickets for the family-friendly early show are $69. The adults-only late show is $85. (847) 240-0386 or loltheater.com.
Seasonal sendup
Noble Fool hosts a New Year's Eve performance of "Dysfunctional Holiday Revue," Second City's nothing sacred seasonal satire consisting of sketch comedy and improv. Tickets are $50. Overnight accommodations with breakfast are available for an additional $99.
@x BTO factbox text bold with rule:9 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, at Pheasant Run Resort & Spa, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. (630) 584-6342 or noblefool.org.
"The Music Man"
Harold Hill's plan to con the residents of a small town into footing the bill for a marching band goes fine until he meets a formidable librarian named Marian in Meredith Willson's "The Music Man." Artistic director Rudy Hogenmiller directs the Light Opera Works' production. Circle Theatre's Kevin Bellie choreographs.
Opens Friday, Dec. 26, at Cahn Auditorium, 600 Emerson St., Evanston. (847) 869-6300 or lightoperaworks.com.